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LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM The L LAND O’ LAKES EDITION JULY 12, 2023 The L Free Auto Accident? Slip and Fall? FREE CONSULTATIONNo Fees Or Costs Unless You Win Walk-Ins WelcomeHelpingInjuredPeople.com 18920 N. Dale Mabry Hwy Ste 101 Lutz, FL (Corner of Sunlake & Dale Mabry) HOLLIDAY KARATINOSLAW FIRM, P.L. “I Will Aggressively Fight To Protect Your Legal Rightsâ€Call AttorneyJIM HOLLIDAY813-868-1887 WE’RE THE TEAM YOU CAN COUNT ON 20122020 813-990-0561FOR FIRST-TIME CUSTOMERS 813-990-0561 813-990-0561 813-990-0561 Same-Day Service Free 2nd Opinion* Free Estimates** 24/7 Emergency**Free estimates for new A/C, water heater, water treatment, whole home generators, whole home repipe and electrical panel upgrade. *Free second opinion with written diagnosis from another company. cornerstonepros.com $150.00 OFFTANKLESS WATER HEATER INSTALLATIONCustomer supplied tankless water heaters excluded. Cannot be combined with any other coupons or discounts. Exp. 7/30/23.$250.00 OFFNEW HVAC SYSTEMCannot be used on previous purchase or HVAC system already installed. Valid on Daikin equipment only. One coupon per purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Exp. 7/30/23. A A d d v v e e r r t t i i s s i i n n g g i i n n T T h h e e L L a a k k e e r r / / L L u u t t z z N N e e w w s s W W o o r r k k s s f f o o r r U U s s ! ! We’ve been advertising in The Laker since April 2021 to promote our insurance agency in Dade City, and are very pleased with the results. We get new customers every week from readers in East Pasco and Wesley Chapel, and have even received calls from Land O’ Lakes! L L a a r r r r y y B B o o t t k k i i n n s s a a n n d d T T o o m m S S p p o o o o r r Lutz’s parade celebrates nation’s Independence Day MIKE CAMUNASThe very vocal Lutz Chiefs Cheer squad lled its oat to capacity and encouraged the crowd of hundreds to cheer along with the squad near the Lutz Branch Library, during the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade. For more on this story, see Page 2A. Ten-year-old Sophia Joiner was one of hundreds of Lutz residents and locals that attended the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade on the morning of the Fourth of July. The event featured nearly 50 oats, with beads and trinkets being tossed to the patriotic faithful lined up and down Lutz Lake Fern Road, in front of Lutz Branch Library and near the historic Lutz Train Depot. Event-goers battled the heat, but still enjoyed the parade, the cake auction, the naming of a new Lutz Guv’na, the 5K and Mile Fun Run, and other activities. The yearly event brings out a huge crowd, in the community of more than 28,000, in an unincorporated area in North Tampa. Katelyn Easterwood, and Missy, walk along First Ave. N.W., on the tail end of the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade on a sweltering Fourth of July morning. The annual Lutz Independence Day Parade and its nearly 50 oats and entries came up Lutz Lake Fern Road toward U.S. 41 and nished in front of Lutz Branch Library and the historic Lutz Train Depot. Hundreds along the parade route clamored for beads and trinkets being tossed from the oats. By B.C. Manionbcmanion@lakerluznews.comThe North Tampa Bay Chamber (NTBC) is once again competing for top honors among chambers across the nation. It is among three nalists in its category, competing for the title of 2023 Chamber of the Year Award. There are four categories in the competition, presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), which is based in Alexandria, Virginia. To ensure the fairest competition, applicants are grouped into categories based on annual revenue, membership, area population and other factors. The ACCE has members af liated with more than 1,600 chambers of commerce, and related business and economic development organizations. In total, it represents more than 9,000 professionals in the industry. In announcing its selection as a nalist, the NTBC sent this message to its members: “The award, sponsored by Personify, is the most prestigious and competitive recognition presented annually by ACCE. It recognizes the leadership role chambers of commerce have in their communities. Those honored with the Chamber of North Tampa Bay Chamber vying for title of nation’s bestMIKE CAMUNASThe North Tampa Bay Chamber came out against a temporary moratorium in a portion of Pasco County relating to the development of multifamily housing. Hope Kennedy, the chamber’s president and CEO, said the word ‘moratorium’ sends a bad message to the entire development community, undermining efforts to provide needed housing. See BAY CHAMBER, page 11A By B.C. Manionbcmanion@lakerlutznews.comThe Pasco County Planning Commission has recommended approval of an ordinance that will create airport overlay districts to prevent potential threats to airport operations and air navigation. The proposed ordinance would apply to Zephyrhills Municipal Airport, publicly owned and publicly maintained; Tampa North Aero Park and Pilot Country Airport, publicly used and privately owned; and Hidden Lake Airport, privately used and privately owned, according to Denise Hernandez, Pasco County’s zoning administrator. It also will apply to the Brooksville Airport, but only in terms of height restrictions, which are controlled by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Hernandez said. Existing development will be deemed a conforming use, meaning it can remain and, if something should happen to damage or destroy those uses, they can be rebuilt, Hernandez told planning board members during their June 22 public hearing on the topic. The ordinance will be codi ed in a new section of the county’s land development code relating to Airport Overlay Districts. Florida statute requires all local airports to adopt zoning regulations that are consistent with state law, Hernandez said. Airports that had adopted airport zoning regulations had to modify them to be consistent with that law. “It basically states that we had to adopt, administer and enforce airport protection zoning regulations and land use compatibility zoning regulations,†Hernandez explained. Efforts to draft the Airport Overlay Districts began in 2017, when the Pasco County Commission established an Airport Zoning Commission. At that time, the Airport Zoning Commission consisted of the Tampa North Aero Park, the Pilot Country Airport and the Zephyrhills Airport development regulations coming in for a landing in Pasco See AIRPORT, page 11A FILEAn airplane descends toward the runway at the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport. New protections are on the way for Pasco County’s airportsBy B.C. Manionbcmanion@lakerlutznews.comThe Pasco County Commission has been talking for months about creating design standards to ensure that residential development on small lots takes aesthetics into account. The board has identi ed architectural options to reduce the monotony often found in “cookie-cutter†subdivisions and it desires increased landscaping to enhance the attractiveness of neighborhoods. But the board’s intentions could be thwarted by the Legislature’s adoption of Senate Bill 1604. That bill, widely referred to as the ‘Reedy Creek Bill,’ stripped Walt Disney World of its special status. But it also eliminated local governments’ ability to mandate building design requirements for residential developments, planned unit developments and master-planned unit developments (MPUDs). Pasco board members expressed frustration about the SB 1604’s restrictions. Commissioner Seth Weightman noted: “I think our board has looked at quality and value of our building products, kicking off (in) 2023 with our new board.†The board’s discussions have involved adding requirements for housing developments that include lots with widths of 40-feet and 50-feet, to avoid a plain-label look with too much pavement and too few trees. The board also has been working with the development community and the Tampa Bay Builders Association to identify how to maintain a quality look and feel in construction of new Pasco seeks to work around state restriction on design efforts See DEVELOPMENT, page 11A
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rf ntf brrnr r rfn rtrrrnn rtrtrb trrnnfr rr nrtnrrnrfn bff 2Awww.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 2023 Despite the heat, the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade was back in full force, with locals, residents and community leaders out marching up and down Lutz Lake Fern Road on the morning of Fourth of JulyBy Mike Camunasmcamunas@lakerlutznews.comThe oats were patriotic and as hot as the sun. Nearly 50 entries, along with hundreds of Lutz residents and locals, made their way up Lutz Lake Fern Road for the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade. The much-anticipat-ed event — held on the sweltering morning of the Fourth of July — brought together the best of the unincorporated community of more than 28,000 to celebrate the country’s birthday. The parade route, which stretched more than a mile, started near the Oscar Cooler Sports Complex and nished in front of the Lutz Branch Library and historic Lutz Train Depot. Local organizers also held a 5K and Mile Fun Run in the early morning, a cake-decorating contest and, after the parade, announced the winner of this year’s Lutz Guv’na campaign. Annabelle Depolis, a young local singer, belted out the National Anthem to kick off the parade, which was led by grand marshal 2022 Guv’na Atlas Cortecero. Hundreds lined the street as oats from the likes of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, Boy and Girl Scout troops, North TampaLutz Civil Air Patrol Squadron, Lutz Chiefs Cheer Squad, and local politicians, leaders and busi-nesses owners all tossed out patriotic beads and other trinkets. Other oats included Lutz All Star Baseball, Lutz Scoops passing out ice cream, the Tampa Rough Riders, Learning Gate Community School and the Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes. In the 5K, the top Lutz nisher was 17-yearold Ethan Russ (16:52), who nished in sixth place, barely edging out 17-year-old Dylan Powell, of Land O’ Lakes (16:55). All three Lutz Guv’na candidates also had entries in the parade, with eventual Guv’na winner Jerome Smalls bringing his company, SoccerGemz, and several athletes to walk in the parade. It’s an event he looks forward to every year. “The turnout, every year, is always amazing,†Smalls said. “It is one of the best parades, really, in the area. We learned to not throw all beads and goodies away so fast, because you then still have a mile to go! “(The parade is) always phenomenal, and we love being a part of it and coming out to see it every year, no matter how hot it is, and it’s always hot!†All about the Red, White & Lutz Members of Cub Scout Pack 339, based out of First Baptist of Lutz, wave to the crowd in front of Lutz Branch Library. Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club make their way along the parade route. Justin Gaertner, a veteran who lives in Lutz, holds his son, Landry, during the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade. MIKE CAMUNASParade-goers out at the grandstand, near the library, jump and cheer as beads and trinkets are tossed from oats. • Following Covid-19 Protocol • Comprehensive Physical Exams • Customized Preventative Health Care • Digital Radiography • In-Hospital Laboratory • On-Site Pharmacy • Anesthesia & Surgery • Pain Management • Dental Care Services17945 SR 54, Lutz • 813-926-1126 Lutz Independence Parade Trophy WinnersBest Vehicle: Charley Musselman Bicycle Entry: West Coast Elite Commercial Entry: Pinch-A-Penny Largest Turnout Participation: Lutz Chiefs Cheer Most Patriotic: Boy Scout Pack 37 Themed Entry (RED, WHITE & Lutz): Lutz Volunteer Fire Department Walking Unit: Civil Air Patrol Youth Entry: Learning Gate Community School Judge’s Favorite: The Barn at Stark Farms Grand Marshal’s Choice: First Baptist of Lutz
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Russell Adams Realty, Inc. 2502 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.Corner of Carson Rd. & US 41KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCEBringing real estate to you for over 50 years! HOMES FOR SALETHE GROVES LAND O LAKES The Groves is an active 55+ gated, golf course community. The maintenance-free villas offer lawn care, exterior painting and roof replacement which are included in the homeowner’s fee. Features include an extended covered and screened lanai, hurricane shutters, tray ceilings, bay window in master bedroom, plantation shutters. The active lifestyle includes amenities such as salt-water community pool, tennis/pickle ball courts, bocce and shuffleboard courts. The Clubhouse boasts a restaurant, fitness center, library and craft room. Highly rated 18-hole golf course. Active community clubs such as social, book and travel just to name a few! Both large and small dog parks. Easy access to Veterans and I75, Tampa Airport and Tampa Premium Outlets. CDD included in tax shown. Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712 TAMPA’S NORTH SIDE COUNTRY CLUB AREA This very unique home will have you saying “wowâ€. The extremely large great room will stimulate endless ideas. The main house with three bedrooms on the south side and a fourth or guest room on the north which could also be used as a home office is wonderful. The very spacious attached in-law suite is unique in itself with a walk-in shower, whirlpool tub, and many closets. Total 4057sq ft. This is a rare gem in Forest Hills adjacent to Carrollwood. Hurry to schedule a private showing as a property like this does not come along very often. Contact Phil Tamm 813-408-1357 WILLOW BEND – LUTZ Here’s your chance to live in a community that’s perfect. Custom built home, with a pool that overlooks a nature pond. There’s a large master suite, with its own bathroom. Very Private split floor plan. There are two other bedrooms, a full bath is near. Sliding thermo-paned glass doors separate the pool area from the family room. Beautiful side yard that’s shaded in the afternoon. A large 3 car garage great for all your tools and storage. A den/office with double doors that can be closed for privacy. A spacious dining room that greets you when you enter. Inside laundry room. Nice sized pantry just off the kitchen area. Make your appointment today to see this home. We are open to offers! Contact Ava Rossler 727-992-4974LAKES MARJORY ESTATES – LAND O LAKES Lake Front, One of a kind in the heart of Land O Lakes. Uniquely charming olde Florida home. Featuring hand Hume exposed cypress timber framing from 1930. Definitely a once in a lifetime chance to own a piece of old Florida history. Spend your evenings in front of the cozy brick fireplace. Entertain family and friends in the large family room. Cozy loft above kitchen. She shed, its craft/hobby room all to yourself. Detached garage, 2 cars and workshop area. This is a must see to appreciate. Make your appointment today! Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712LAND O LAKES A little bit country and a little bit city like. Awesome sixteen acre farm with lots of possibilities and potential. The main house is very open with a dining area, kitchen with bar and eat-in areas, as well as a great room. There is a huge master suite, and a total of 5 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms in the main house. The pool with Jacuzzi is surrounded by the house and is in the open air with a large patio. The barn with horse stalls is 2,800 sqft on the each of the first and second level. The second level of the barn has one apartment fully equipped. The third level has two bedrooms with separate entries. Contact Phil Tamm 813-408-1357WATERFRONT LOTSLAKE JO ANN 2 beautiful lake lots. 8+/acres. Lots are buildable. Homes only! Paved road. Owners owed for almost 50 years waiting to sell to YOU! Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712VACANT PROPERTYAUTUMN OAKS – HUDSON Great Buildable Lot ready for your dream home. 1.34 Acre paved street Homes only Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712 www.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 20233A rrrfntb rfntb rfnnft tnbnt ftfnfn tffft tftf ntnf ftffbt ftff ttff ftnbtbft tt tntf ffn ffft nnf ftnf tntbft tfftft tnfbtnf ftb tfftb nbtf fnfftfff $3 O F FANY TWO L U NCH E NTREESPLAZA MEXICO Restaurant Bar & GrillWith this coupon. One coupon per table, per visit. Not valid with other offers or with the purchase of alcohol. Offer expires /3/23$5 O F FANY P U R CHAS E OF $ 30 OR MOREPLAZA MEXICO Restaurant Bar & GrillWith this coupon. One coupon per table, per visit. Not valid with other offers or with the purchase of alcohol. 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One coupon per table per visit. Not valid with other offers or with the purchase of alcohol. Offer expires 07/31/23 With this coupon. One coupon per table per visit. Not valid with other offers or with the purchase of alcohol. Offer expires 07/31/23 Jerome Smalls, a Lutz resident who owns and operates SoccerGemz, is the 2023 Lutz Guv’na. He won the contest after his second attempt at the title.By Mike Camunasmcamunas@lakerlutznews.comJerome Smalls wasn’t about to be a two-time loser. “Once was enough,†said Smalls, who was un-successful in his 2014 bid for the Lutz Guv’na title. This time, he brought in the most cash and was crowned the 2023 Lutz Guv’na following the annu-al Lutz Independence Day Parade. Smalls was one of three candidates vying for the title in a yearly competition that involves raising money for various local charities and nonprot organizations. The winner receives the coveted Guv’na sash, a red-and-white Cat-in-the-Hat hat and a key to the unincorporated community of more than 28,000 people. After raising more than $4,300, Smalls topped fellow candidates Shanon Monahan ($4,000 plus) and Tim Davis ($3,000 plus) and, humbly, accepted the passing of the torch from 2022 Guv’na Atlas Cortecero. The candidates combined to raise more than $11,000, which will be divvied out to nonprots, such as the Old Lutz School House, GFWC LutzLand O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, Boy and Girl Scout Troops, churches, schools, sports teams and other organizations in Lutz. “This is just so crazy, really, but it’s not only being up at the podium (after winning),†Smalls said. “There’s the parade and seeing all the families that we know through our program (SoccerGemz), to see (the kids) that came through and grow up and at the parade, supporting us and all the can-didates. “It’s crazy to have all that support, especially when starting a business in Lutz.†Smalls moved to Tampa in 2005 and opened SoccerGemz in 2012. It’s an introductory soccer program which teaches the basic skills and funda-mentals of soccer for children 18 months to 8 years old in the Lutz community. An avid sports fan, Smalls was aided by his two daughters — Ivoryele, 14, and Anora, 9 — at the Guv’na debate on May 13. He also is a very active member with Lutz First Baptist. Smalls is no stranger to running for Guv’na, since he ultimately came up short when running in 2014. This time, though, he was more savvy with his campaign. He got the backing of some “political†heavy hitters from Lutz: the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club. “The women in green shirts — I call them the WIGS,†Smalls said with a laugh. “They supported me and worked with me, because in 2014, I was just like, ‘Hey, I’m running for Guv’na! That’s cool!’ This time, I went out and got that organization be-cause those women do so, so much for Lutz and all the organizations here.†Whoever is crowned Guv’na earmarks 10% of the proceeds to a Lutz charitable organization of his or her choice, and Smalls said his will go to the Woman’s Club. He added he also will help other nonprots, such as the Old Lutz School House and also plans on donating to the Lutz Branch Library — since he is a frequent patron. “I’m an avid reader and I come here a lot,†Small said, pointing to the library from the nearby Lutz Train Depot. “I want to help out the place I go to a lot.†Smalls held several fundraising events since May 13, from bingo events at Black Sheep American Pub, to other luncheons and dinners and fun events. Many people he knew through SoccerGemz also donated to his cause, as he could “panhandle†in the parade, in a nal push to cash in for the sash. But now that he has said sash, he plans to make due on a big campaign “promise†he made while “mudslinging†his other candidates. And this promise is a real winner. “I promised that I became Guv’na — which I now have after running two times — I promised to build a brand new stadium in the middle of (U.S.) 41 — for the (Tampa Bay) Rays! “I will bring the Rays to Lutz!†he said, jokingly. No small feat, as new Lutz Guv’na crowned 2023 Jerome Smalls 2022 Atlas Cortecero 2019 Amy Lancaster 2018 Domenic Difante 2017 Kori Rankin 2016 Greg Gilbert 2015 Jennifer Rankin 2014 Dr. Cindy Perkins 2013 Suzin Carr 2012 Karen D’Amico 2011 Kevin White 2010 Stephanie Ensor 2009 Suzin Carr 2008 Teri Burgess 2007 Michele Northrup 2006 Edwina Kraemer 2005 Liz Iaconetti 2004 Dean Rivett 2003 Joni Cagle 2002 Brett Montegny 2001 Helen Kinyon 2000 Vince Arcuri 1999 Danny Neeley 1998 Sandy Ruberg 1997 Earl Smith 1996 Ben Nevel 1995 Kay Dahman 1994 Lorraine Dabney 1993 Leslie Dennison 1992 Betty Neeley 1991 Jo Van BebberPast Lutz Guv’nas
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4Awww.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 2023 WE’RE THE TEAM YOU CAN COUNT ON It’s been a great honor serving our commuity with their home service needs.DanaPresident Cornerstone Pro’s 813-990-0561 www.cornerstonepros.com GENERATORS AIR CONDITIONING Electrical Inspections Electrical Panel Upgrades Ceiling Fan InstallationsLED & Can LightingWhole Home Generator Electrical Maintenance Plan 18 Month NO Interest Financing *WAC ELECTRICAL Full Service A/C, Plumbing & Electrical A/C Emergency Service & Repair A/C Tune-Up & Inspection New A/C System Installation Service and Repair on all brands of A/C Equipment A/C Maintenance Plan Up to 5 years NO Interest Financing *WAC New A/C System as low as $65 Monthly *WAC PLUMBING Plumbing Inspections Stoppages, Leaks, Drain Cleaning Water Heater Repairs & Replacement Tankless Water Heater Water Treatment & Puri cation Plumbing Maintenance Plan Whole Home Repipe 18 Month NO Interest Financing *WAC Generac Guardian Series Generator Installation Whole Home & Portable Generators Serv & Maint of Cornerstone installed Generators Runs on natural gas or liquid propane for days to weeks Protects your home automatically when the power is out No risk of deadly carbon monoxide poisoning Provides 24/7 protections, whether your home or away Turns itself off when utility power returns 18 Month NO Interest Financing *WAC Call Today! Fixed Today! $150.00 OFF TANKLESS WATER HEATER INSTALLATIONCustomer supplied tankless water heaters excluded. Cannot be combined with any other coupons or discounts. Exp. 7/30/23.$250.00 OFFNEW HVAC SYSTEMCannot be used on previous purchase or HVAC system already installed. Valid on Daikin brand equipment only. One coupon per purchase. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts. Exp. 7/30/23. What’s Happening What’ s Happening Your Community Calendar Submit 2 weeks in advance to: news@lakerlutznews.com All listings free of charge I I n n j j u u r r e e d d ? ? I I n n j j u u r r e e d d ? ? Civil Trial PracticeF F r r e e e e C C o o n n s s u u l l t t a a t t i i o o n n HudginsLawFirm.net D D r r e e w w B B e e n n H H u u d d g g i i n n s s , , E E s s q q Z Z e e p p h h y y r r h h i i l l l l s s , , F F L L Drew Ben Hudgins, EsqZephyrhills, FL CallHudgins Law Firm800-950-5534 LAND O’ LAKES 813-996-1211 DADE CITY 352-567-1414 ZEPHYRHILLS 813-779-1999 DELIVERY THRU DOOR DASH, SLICE & UBER ••• ORDER ONLINE AT ABCPIZZA.COM LUNCH SPECIALSSMALL CHEESE PIZZA AND DRINK . . . . . .$7.99SPAGHETTI AND MEATBALL . . . . . . . . . . .$6.99GREEK LEMON CHICKEN . . . . . . . . . . . .$12.95 SPAGHETTI SPECIALTUES • WED • SUN$6.99All recipes made with 100% extra virgin olive oil The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report Pasco County will host its second series of workshops to invite public involvement in the update of the county’s 2050 Comprehensive Plan, according to a county news release. The workshops will be at: • Elsie Logan Memorial Park, at 15830 Greenglen Lane, in Shady Hills, on July 13, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. • The Community Center at Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., on July 31, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. All are welcome to attend these workshops, which will include a brief overview of Pasco 2050, a discussion of the issues and opportunities identi ed during the rst series of workshops, and interactive exercises intended for members of the public to share their thoughts on the future vision of Pasco County. Those unable to attend can provide input through the county’s Visioning Survey, which is available at MyPas.co/2050VisioningSurvey. To register for updates on upcoming community meetings, community engagement, and other information about the 2050 Comprehensive Plan, visit Pasco2050.com. Public invited to help Pasco shape its future The Laker/Lutz News staff report The U.S. 41 median at Asbel Road in Land O’ Lakes is closed, and reconstruction work began on July 10. It will remain closed to all vehicles around-the-clock until approximately the afternoon of July 17. The Florida Department of Transportation recommends the following detours for drivers and residents of these adjoining neighborhoods: • Northbound U.S. 41 to westbound Asbel Road: Continue north past Asbel Road, U-turn at Mossy Timber Boulevard., go south on U.S. 41 and turn right onto westbound Asbel Road. • Southbound U.S. 41 to eastbound Asbel Road: Continue south past Asbel Road, U-turn at Ensemble Boulevard, go north on U.S. 41 and turn right onto eastbound Asbel Road. • Eastbound Asbel Road to Northbound U.S. 41: Turn right from Asbel Road onto southbound U.S. 41, U-turn at Ensemble Boulevard, then go north on U.S. 41. • Eastbound Asbel Road continuing east across U.S. 41: Turn right from Asbel Road onto southbound U.S. 41, U-turn at Ensemble Boulevard to go north on U.S. 41, then turn right onto eastbound Asbel Road. • Westbound Asbel Road to Southbound U.S. 41: Turn right from Asbel Road onto northbound U.S. 41, U-turn at Mossy Timber Boulevard, then go south on U.S. 41. • Westbound Asbel Road continuing west across U.S. 41: Turn right from Asbel Road onto northbound U.S. 41, U-turn at Mossy Timber Boulevard to go south on U.S. 41, then turn right onto westbound Asbel Road. For U.S. 41 project information and to sign up to receive alerts, visit FDOTTampaBay.com/ project/257/256324-2-52-01.MIKE CAMUNASTraf c is being redirected at the median at U.S. 41 and Asbel Road in Land O’ Lakes, to allow reconstruction work to be done. NEW STEAM EXHIBITThe Museum of Science & Industry, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa, has a summer exhibit, “STEAM Team Superhero Training Academy,†available now through Labor Day, and is included with general admission tickets, thanks to the underwriting support from Florida Blue. MOSI is part of the Blue Star Museums initiative, which allows military families to visit for free. For more information on the exhibits and tickets, visit MOSI.org.SEASON THEATER PASSESLive Oak Theatre Company in Brooksville now has 2023-2024 Season Passes available. The passes allow patrons to purchase multiple passes at a discount that can be used for any of its in-season productions, both Main Stage and Youth Theatre. New season shows include “Fiddler on the Roof,†“Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,†“Mary Poppins Jr.,†“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever†and The Little Mermaid Jr.†For more information, visit LiveOakTheatre. org or Facebook.com/LiveOakTheatre, call 352593-0027, or email boxof ce@liveoaktheatre.org. SUMMER KIDS SERIESB&B Theatres Wesley Chapel-The Grove 16 will host a Summer Kids Series with $5 movies or $3 for backstage pass members, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. For information, visit BBTheatres.com. Traditional showtimes are 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.; sensory-friendly showtimes are at 10:15 a.m. Upcoming movies are: • July 11 to July 13: “Scoob!†• July 18 to July 20: “The Lego Batman Movie†• July 25 to July 27: “Tom & Jerry The Movieâ€FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTIONThe Pasco Sheriff’s Of ce is teaming up with Pasco Sheriff’s Charities, Farm Share, the Pasco County NAACP, Boys & Girls Club of Tampa Bay, the Gentlemen’s Course and the Samaritan Corporation of Pasco Inc., for a free community food distribution on July 13 at the Boys & Girls Club of Lacoochee, 38724 Mudcat Grant Blvd., in Dade City. The drive-thru starts at 9 a.m., rain or shine, on a rst-come, rst-served basis (until food items run out).RODEO & FAMILY FESTIVALThe Tampa Bay Rodeo & Family Festival, presented by Bartow Ford, arrives July 14 and July 15, at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, 215 Sydney Washer Road in Dover. The two-day event will feature bull-riding, bronco-busting, barrel-racing, live music, a monster truck show, meet-and-greets, a mechanical bull, pony rides, giant slide, oversized lawn games, food, and more. For information, schedule of events and tickets, visit HillsboroughCountyFair.com/tickets.FAMILY KARAOKE NIGHTAmerican Legion Post 147, 17383 Gunn Highway, in Odessa, will host a Family Karaoke Night on July 15 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Admission is free. For information, call 813-920-4512.TAMPA BIRTHDAY BASHThe Tampa Bay Moms Group will host Tampa’s Biggest Birthday Bash on July 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Waterworks Park, 1701 N. Highland Ave., in Tampa, to bene t the organization, Celebrate Birthdays. The event will include food trucks, games, exhibits, entertainment, and more. For information, visit TampaBayMomsGroup.com/ tampasbiggestbirthdaybash. Instrument Petting ZoosThe Florida Orchestra will host these Instrument Petting Zoos for guests to touch and play a variety of musical instruments: • July 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, for kindergarten through fth grade. For information, call 352-567-3576. • July 20 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. For information, call 813-788-6375. Traf c at median on U.S. 41 and Asbel Road to be redirected
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THRIVE OVER 55Senior Expo APRIL 5TH, 2023 9AM-12:30PMB&B Theatre 6333 W esley Grove Blvd. W esley Chapel, FL 33544FREE ADMISSION FREE P ARKING Live it up in your golden years!Our Thrive over 55 Senior Expo brings the latest products, services, lifestyle enhancements and special offers directly to you.THERE’S SO MUCH TO SEE, DO AND ENJOY! REGISTER NOW TO ATTENDTickets are free, but mandatory for entry. Register now at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/642979327477 or call 813-909-2800Vendor Opportunities Available!Call 813-909-2800 Today for Detail Package Business Categories!OCTOBER 26TH, 2023 9AM-12:30PMB&B Theatre 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd. Bringing you the latest products, services, lifestyle directly to you.THERE’S SO MUCH TO SEE, DO AND ENJOY! www.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 20235A 10% OFF All Services813-536-016125682 Sierra Center Blvd. Lutz (Near Mellow Mushroom)HOURS: Mon-Sat, 9:30am-7:30pm Sun 11am-5pmMon-Wed ONLY w/coupon. Cannot be combined w/other offers. EXPIRES 07/30/23. Manicures Pedicures Nail Enhancements Dipping Powder Waxing Gift Cards Eyelash ExtensionsWe are open & committed to our clients’ health! Sizzin' Hot! Nothing seems complete when you have one missing piece.Come hear what you’re missing!Free adult hearing screenings this month. Call for your appointment The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report Experience Florida’s Sports Coast is offering free Scallop Sorters to scallopers, in an effort to encourage sustainable scalloping practices in Pasco County, according to a county news release. The free Scallop Sorters are available at the Florida’s Sports Coast of ce, 1938 Duck Slough Blvd., in Trinity, during regular business hours. There is a limit of two per family, while supplies last. The Scallop Sorter tool, developed by the UF/IFAS Extension Florida Sea Grant, helps to keep smaller, underdeveloped scallops from being harvested. Pasco County’s scallop season began on July 1 and runs through Aug. 6. “Promoting sustainable tourism is important to our Florida’s Sports Coast team and to our destination offerings, such as scalloping,†Florida’s Sports Coast Director Adam Thomas, said in the release. “As we gear up for the launch of our 37-day scalloping season this summer, we’re encouraging rst-time and returning scallopers to use ethical practices to help ensure the health and quality of our Bay Scallop population for years to come.†The Scallop Sorter is easy to use. Simply place the tool above each scallop to check its size. If it’s too small, toss the scallop back so it can have a chance to grow for another scallop season, the release says. For more information, visit FlSportsCoast.com/scalloping for tips on enjoying Pasco’s Bay Scallop Season. Free scallop sorters available for Pasco scallop seasonCOURTESY OF EXPERIENCE FLORIDA’S SPORTS COASTScallop seekers are being offered a tool to help them know when to keep scallops and when to toss them back into the water to let them grow for another year. Experience Florida’s Sports Coast is providing the sorters for free, in an effort to promote sustainable scalloping.
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The LAKER / Lutz NEWS BUY 3 WEEKS, GET 1 FREE IN THE ALL NEW PETCETERA DIRECTORY! CALL RIGHT MEOW! (813) 909-2800 rfnt bb rfntSatisfaction completely guaranteed brr ONLY$2598tt www.gentlecarepethospital.com • Facebook.com/Gentlecare etHospital S Ay & NEuTER CLINIC: Contact s for appointment: (Incldes pre-anesthetic exam, anesthesia, pain & antibiotic pre-medication) Cat Neuter: $65 • Cat Spay: $75 • Dog Neuter: $85-$140* • Dog Spay: $90-$175* *Based on weight *medications/treatments & lab work are additional cost MONDAY-FRIDAY 8 AM 6 PM SATURDAY 8 AM 2 PMPETS SHOULD BE HEALTHY & NOT PREGNANT. MUST BE CURRENT ON RABIES & DHPP/FVRCP VACCINES.DENTAL SERVICES: Now equipped with a new digital dental X-ray system! Prices include Dental X-rays, General Anesthesia, Monitoring, Dental Scaling and Polishing, an antibiotic and pain injections. • Dogs/Cats p to 25lb $215 • Dogs 26-50 lb $237 • Dogs Over 50 lb $259 rfrntb bnnnnbnnntnn rrnbnnnntbn rnbn OPEN FOR WELLNESS & MEDICAL CARE• In Person visits available by appointment only • Curbside service available • Home Delivery available for Medications/SuppliesDUE TO HIGH CALL VOLUME, PLEASE TEXT US AT 813-803-2441(813) 949-4416 21515 VILLAGE LAKES SHOPPING CENTER LAND O’LAKES • FEATURES • EVENTS • PHOTOS • CONTESTS • VIDEOS • AND MORE rfnttrbbttft CHAT WITH ANIMAL SERVICESThe New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host “Cat Chat: With Animal Services†on July 17 at 4 p.m. Participants can learn about the Trap, Neuter, Release programs for stray cats in Pasco County. For information, call 813-788-6375.SCALLOP SEASON KICKS OFFExperience Florida’s Sports Coast has announced the return of the Bay Scallop Season, with an extension. The season kicked off on July 1 and will continue through Aug. 6, marking a 37-day season, according to a news release. “The extended season is going to do so much for tourism in Pasco County,†said Jack Mariano, Board of County Commissioners chair, in the release. Participants should follow these scalloping regulations and safety tips: • Collect scallops by hand or with a dip net • Daily bag limit: 2 gallons whole bay scallops in shell or 1 pint shucked per person • Daily boat limit: 10 gallons in shell or 1/2-gallon shucked meat • Display a diver-down ag while in the water For more information about the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s scalloping regulations, visit MyFWC.com/ shing/saltwater/recreational/bay-scallops/. For tips on how your family can enjoy the scallop season, visit FLSportsCoast.com/scalloping. PET PAWS A friendly, unique petDon Keeley and his pet skunk, Tazer, live in Zephyrhills and they both love the U.S.A.! Pet skunks can be trained to sleep during the night and be active during the day. When not sleeping, skunks need lots of love and attention. PAWSOME Pet of the Week! PET OF THE WEEK FAMILIES RECEIVE A $30 GIFT CARD TO CHUY’S TEX MEX.Write a short paragraph about why your pet is special along with a photo andemail to: mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, SUBJECT: Pet of the WeekPLEASE NOTE: OWNERS NAME AND ADDRESS MUST BE INCLUDED FOR YOUR PET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR PUBLICATION. 813-948-221125750 Sierra Center Blvd. Lutz, FL 33559 www.Chuys.comSPONSOR: www.Chuys.com SPONSOR: www.Chuys.com www.Chuys.com www.Chuys.comFacebook.com/ChuysTampa Holding on, for a snackLorna Baker had fun watching the acrobatics of this red-bellied woodpecker on the bird feeder in her backyard, in Meadow Pointe in Wesley Chapel. Red-bellied woodpeckers are primarily a bird of the southeast, but in recent years have expanded their range to the north, as they adjust to life in suburbs and city parks. Despite its name, the belly is not often visible in the eld. 6Awww.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 2023 COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY ANIMAL SERVICESMaking it comfy for potential petsPasco County Animal Services (PCAS) and Pasco County Library Systems worked together on June 24 to host a workshop to show willing volunteers and other animal lovers how to make pet pillows. Volunteers met for the workshop at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, and made about a dozen pillows to take to PCAS, 19640 Dogpatch Lane. The pillows will be distributed to smaller and senior dogs and cats awaiting adoption. Animal Services always has animals looking for their forever home and is always accepting adoption applications. To adopt a dog or cat, depending on size and age, cost is $85 or lower. To learn more about the adoption process, visit PascoCounty .net/232/ Adoption.
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OUR SHOPS ARE OPEN! VISIT VINTAGE ROW VISIT VINTAGE ROWIn charming, downtown San AntonioLESS THAN 30 MINUTES FROM WESLEY CHAPEL, LAND O’ LAKES AND LUTZ TWO KRAZY CHICKS ANTIQUES & MORE(352) 521-3361 • 114232 7thSt • Dade CityStacie Hartwig and Mary Warfel, OwnersWe have antiques, collectibles, shabby chic, vintage and farmhouse dcor. We carry Country Chic and Farmhouse Paint. CALL TODAY FOR INFORMATION ABOUT OUR DIY CLASSES! $6 LUNCH: 2 SLICES OF PIZZA & A DRINKAL’S FAMOUS PIZZA SHOP(352) 588-4422 • 11931 Curley StreetFollow us on facebook/instagramHand Tossed Pizza, Wings, Breaded Ravioli, Cheese Bread, Garlic Sticks, Calzones, Strombolis, Salads, Beer and Wine by the Glass NEW DADE CITY LOCATION!!! TWO ‘OLE HENS (813) 918-5720 • 32745 SR 52 Like us on Facebook/InstagramMary Warfel, OwnerAntiques to Shabby Chic, Vintage, Farm House & Rustic Dcor, Shabby and Farmhouse Paints, CollectiblesNow also open Sundays 12-4pmAND CHECK OUT OUR NEWEST LOCATION!TWO ‘OLE HENS TOO 14136 8th Street, Suite A • Dade City (352) 437-5732We have antiques, vintage home decor with a lot of handmade items. Primitive and shabby chic and farmhouse items Jams, Pickles, Baked Goods! AN AFFORDABLE WAY TO ADVERTISE YOUR AD HEREContact The LAKER / Lutz NEWStoday813-909-2800 $5 OFF purchase of $25 or morewith this ad SAN ANTONIO POTTERY(352) 588-4228 • 11903 Curley Streetwww.potteryorida.comJack Boyle, Artist/OwnerHand made pottery, working studio, local Florida artists, unique gifts SUMMER BREAK FROM JULY 27-SEPTEMBER 19 • OPEN BY CHANCE OR APPT. Next 6 week classes begin September 19, September 19, 20 & 23rd, 2023 20 & 23rd, 2023 www.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 20237A The L AKER / Lutz N EWSLUTZ, ODESSA, LAND O’ LAKES, WESLEY CHAPEL, NEW TAMPA, ZEPHYRHILLS, DADE CITY Serving Pasco since 1981 / Serving Lutz since 1964 PUBLISHER & OWNER BRIAN CALLE bcalle@lakerlutznews.com SUBSCRIPTIONS: Mail subscriptions are sold to cover postage cost: $40/3 months, $80/6 months, $160/12 months. DELIVERY PROBLEMS: Visit www.lakerlutznews.com and select the Circulation Request tab to stop/request delivery or to report a delivery problem.. ADDITIONAL COPIES: A listing of boxes and business locations is on our home page at www.lakerlutznews.com. EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: Suggestions for stories and news coverage are welcome. Please send ideas to news@lakerlutznews.com, or call our newsroom at 813-909-2800. ADVERTISING ERRORS: Publisher is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the space cost for the rst insertion, or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Advertising and editorial content by Street Media, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden without prior written permission from the publisher.WEBSITE: www.lakerlutznews.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/lakerlutznews TWITTER: www.twitter.com/lakerlutznews EMAILS: news@lakerlutznews.com sales@lakerlutznews.com SALESMARY JANE WEEKS Account Managermweeks@lakerlutznews.comCAROLYN BENNETTCustomer Servicecbennett@lakerlutznews.comDESIGNLAURA WHITE Graphic Designerlwhite@txstreetmedia.comMARKETINGSARA MINTON-OGLESBY Director of Digital Marketing soglesby@lakerlutznews.comEDITORIALB.C. MANION Editor bcmanion@lakerlutznews.comMIKE CAMUNAS Staff Writermcamunas@lakerlutznews.comMARY RATHMAN Editorial Assistantmrathman@lakerlutznews.comMAIL: 2020 N LOOP W, SUITE 220 HOUSTON, TX 77018 PHONE/FAX: ph: 813.909.2800 • fax: 813.909.2802 rrffn tbbrrtbb rfnntb bb r INHOUSE FINANCING FOR ALL BUDGET & NEEDS. LEAVE YOUR HEALTH IN THE CARE OF A SPECIALIST.NO BONE, NO PROBLEMSmile and Chew with Con dence• Same Day Smiles • Dental Implants • Permanent Solutions AFTER BEFORE ALL IN ONE DAY • IN-HOUSE LABThe Laker/Lutz News Pasco County Schools has hired Melanie Waxler as its new director of strategic communications. She replaces Steve Hegarty, the district’s public information of cer, who retired from the district’s top communications post on June 20. In announcing Waxler’s appointment and Hegarty’s departure, Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning noted Waxler’s extensive communications background and said he’s excited about the positive impact he believes she will have in the district. But he also took a few minutes to thank Hegarty, noting that he marveled at Hegarty’s impressive work ethic, his calming in uence and his sense of humor. He noted that Hegarty took over leadership of district communications at the beginning of COVID and played a key role in helping to communicate the district’s response to the pandemic. Hegarty also was heavily involved in crisis communications, Browning said. The superintendent said the vast majority of Hegarty’s time was devoted to dealing with crises that occurred in the district, “generally because some kid made a stupid choice and posted something very stupid on social media.†“They should know better. It disrupts our educational environment,†Browning said. Browning said he appreciated Hegarty’s sage counsel, noting there were times he wanted to say something, but thought better of it, after talking to Hegarty. “I always knew that when Steve told me something, I could take it to the bank,†the superintendent said.Pasco County Schools names new communications director By Mary Rathmanmrathman@lakerlutznews.comPurchases of the Florida Support Autism Specialty License Plate generate funds to support nonpro t organizations that provide direct services for individuals with autism and related disabilities within the state. “By purchasing a specialty license plate, individuals not only show their support but also contribute to funding the exceptional work carried out by organizations providing vital autism services across the state,†said Kim Vassar, chair of the Autism Services Grants Council in Florida, in a news release. During 2022, the council awarded a total of $141,000 in grants to 19 Florida-based nonpro ts, the release said. Recently, it celebrated the sale of its 13,000th license plate. “Every license plate on our roadways serves as a rolling billboard, raising awareness and reminding everyone that individuals with autism are an integral part of our community,†Vassar added. All nonpro t organizations with a current Internal Revenue Service designation as a 501(c)(3) exempt organization and a current State of Florida Charitable Solicitation Registration number that provide services to individuals with autism and related disabilities in Florida are eligible to apply for grants. Grant funds can be used to purchase vehicles, real property, building improvements, or for capital campaigns, endowments, lobbying, research, incurred debt, and program expenses incurred prior to grant approval. Grant awards are for one year and will not exceed $10,000. All proposals are due by July 31 and are available online at AutismLicensePlate.com/ grant-application/. Grant cycle open for organizations that provide autism services FILE
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rfrfrfntb nbbbbrrrrbf bbrrbbtt brfnrttbtrn bttnf nrnrf ntn rfn tfnbrfn rfn rfn rfn nfbfrfnbrtrn fff fnf fnfnnfffbrn t rnr t ft tfb fnt rn brn nfbn tnnb b rrttn nftrn trnr fnb fnff rfnf fnfft nfbfrfn ffnfft nfbfrfn ffnfft trnr nfbfrfnbff ffnfftb rfb f tt nn n bttn ff t 8Awww.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 2023
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Call 24/7 1-877-707-5707 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FOR SALE rrrfrnrtrr brrfrfrbnrrnnrrfntrbnbtbbbrn rrnrnnr rfntrbr ffbtn TheLaker/LutzNews Classifieds813.909.2800 Call to Advertise in CALL US TODAY FORA FREE ESTIMATE 1-855-282-1397Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm ESTCLOG-FREE GUTTERS FOREVER**Wells Fargo Home Projects credit card is issued by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., an Equal Housing Lender. Special terms for 24 mo. apply to qualifying purchases of $1,000 or more EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER!Promo Code: 285 FREE GUTTER ALIGNMENT + FREE GUTTER CLEANING*APR FOR 24 MONTHS** SENIORS & MILITARY!YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE*+ +0 10 15% % %OFF OFF FOR SALE Fictitious Get the word out in The Laker/Lutz News! Call 813-909-2800 Get the word out in The Laker/Lutz News! Call 813-909-2800 FOR SALE *Includes product and labor; bathtub, shower or walk-in tub and wall surround. This promotion cannot be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply. This offer expires 9/30/23. Each dealis available for those customers who qualify. See your dealer for details. BCI Acrylic, Inc. The Bath or Shower You’ve Always Wanted IN AS LITTLE AS A DAY(866) 429-0745 CALL NOW OFFER EXPIRES 9.30.2023$1000 OFF*No Payments & No Interest For 18 Months**AND *Includes product and labor; bathtub, shower or walk-in tub and wall surround. This promotion cannot be combined with any other offer. Other restrictions may apply. This offer expires 9/30/23. Each dealis available for those customers who qualify. See your dealer for details. BCI Acrylic, Inc.The Bath or Shower You’ve Always Wanted IN AS LITTLE AS A DAY(866) 429-0745 CALL NOW OFFER EXPIRES 9.30.2023$1000 OFF*No Payments & No Interest For 18 Months**AND LEGAL NOTICES Notice is hereby given that the Undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the name “Rooster’s Welding & Fabrication†Intends to register the name with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Pasco County, Florida. Cyle Shirley – 100% Owner 18242 Moorhaven Dr. Spring Hill, Fl 34610 Fictitious Name Notice FICTICIOUS NAME NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING DATES LAKE PADGETT ESTATES INDEPENDENT SPECIAL DISTRICT The Board of Supervisors of Lake Padgett Estates of Land O’ Lakes Independent Special District will hold their regular meeting on July 20, 2023 at 6:30 p.m., at the Lake Padgett Estates Stables Meeting Room, located at 3614 Stable Ridge Lane, Land O’ Lakes, Florida 34639. There will be an Audit Committee just prior to the onset of the Board of Supervisors’ meeting. The Audit Committee will review, discuss and evaluate the proposals submitted in response to the RFP for Audit Services. The meeting is open to the public and will be conducted in accordance with provisions of Florida Law for Community Development Districts. There may be occasions when one or more Supervisors will participate by telephone. At the above location will be present a speaker telephone so that any person can attend the meeting at the above location and be fully informed of the discussions taking place either in person or by telephone communication. Pursuant to provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any person requiring special accommodations to participate in these meetings before the meetings. If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact A person who decides to appeal any decision made by the Board with respect to any matter considered at the meeting is advised that this same person will need a record of the proceedings and that accordingly, the person may need to ensure that a verbatim record of the proceedings is made, including the testimony and evidence upon which such appeal is to be based. Scott Brizendine District Manager Notice is hereby given that the Undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the name “Snyder Chiropractic Centers†Intends to register the name with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Pasco County, Florida. Dr. Philip Snyder 100% Owner 14028 5th St., Dade City, FL 33525 Fictitious Name Notice FICTICIOUS NAME FOR SALE r rfntbr ftrbbt brrbbrntt n‘’‘’“““â€â€œâ€¢â€œâ€¢â€œâ€¢â€œâ€¢â€œâ€¢â€œâ€““–—“–“–“bf ‘‘n‘––rfntbbfntbt rrr FOR SALE rfntrbrff rrfrrrb bffbrrbrffffrf ftrf 4 Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons (5 oz.) 4 Air-Chilled Boneless Chicken Breasts (5 oz.) 4 Omaha Steaks Burgers (4 oz.) 4 Gourmet Jumbo Franks (3 oz.) 4 Individual Scalloped Potatoes (3.8 oz.) 4 Caramel Apple Tartlets (4 oz.) 1 Omaha Steaks Seasoning (3 oz.) 8 Omaha Steaks Burgers (4 oz.)73818FAL separately $274.93 SPECIAL INTRODUCTORY PRICE$12999 rffnftbttbttbrn rfLimited TimeLet’s talk steaks. Steaks that are tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Perfectly aged, hand-trimmed, one-of-a-kind steaks that are GUARANTEEDto be perfect, every single time. These aren’t just steaks. These are Omaha Steaks. PERFECTIONfEFFORTLESS Order Now! OmahaSteaks.com/Classic5620|1.844.810.7494 LEGAL NOTICES PASCO SHERIFF’S OFFICE (PSO) NOTICE OF ACTION ON FOUND AND/OR ABANDONED PROPERTY The listed property was submitted into the Property and Evidence Section by a Florida State Statute 705.103. DATE FOUND LOCATION FOUNDDATE TURNED INTO PSODESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTYFINDER FILED A CLAIM (YES/NO)12/27/22 Ridgewood Dr., Zephyrhills 12/27/22 Different brands of Metal Watches, black, green & silver in color Yes 10Awww.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 2023
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www.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 202311A OPEN MONDAY-FRIDAY 8AM-6PM • SATURDAY 8AM-4PM rfntbtfntfbntntnt WALK-INS WELCOMEASK US ABOUT OUR AFFORDABLE WELLNESS PLANS PREVENTIVE CARE • MEDICINE • SURGERY • DIGITAL X-RAY • DENTAL CLEANING PRE-BREEDING EXAMS • OVULATION TIMING • PROGESTERONE TESTING 24416 State Road 54, Lutz 33559 • 813-428-6994 At the corner of SR 54 and Oak Grove BoulevardPetPointAnimalHospital • www.petpointanimalhospital.com New Clients Receive a $42 EXAMOne per client, discounted multi-pet exam for second petCall Now & mention PROMO EXAM813-428-6994 the Year designation have demonstrated orga-nizational strength and made an impact on key community priorities, such as education, trans-portation, economic prosperity, and quality of life.†In its announcement, the NTBC also included a statement from Sheree Anne Kelly, the ACCE’s president and CEO. “This year’s nalists truly represent excellence in the chamber industry. Through their roles as community partners, thought leaders and inno-vative problem solvers, each has demonstrated what it means to be a catalyst for growth and regional prosperity,†Kelly’s statement says. Hope Kennedy, president and CEO of the NTBC, said being selected as a nalist “is an absolute honor. “It is a true testament to the work that we’ve all done over the last year. More importantly, being back-to-back (as a nalist) is such a great opportunity to showcase our chamber on the national stage,†she said. Justin Keeney, the chamber board’s current chairman, noted the NTBC was the only cham-ber in the group of nalists vying for the top honor for the second year in a row. “We’re super excited. We’re happy to repre-sent the region. “To Hope’s credit, a lot of work is behind that nomination in getting to this part of the process,†Keeney said. Kennedy believes the chamber was singled out because of its programs. “ACCE did a Horizons Report several years ago on chambers and how to get your chamber to the next level. We’ve always used that as kind of our navigational beacon,†she said. In answering questions in the contest appli-cation, the chamber tied its responses directly to different aspects to that Horizons Report, Kennedy said. Two programs highlighted in the chamber’s application covered the issues of the Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) and the need for affordable housing. “Those two topics were very timely,†Kennedy said. “The ERTC was little-known, probably even in the chamber industry,†she said. The chamber put together a web page and video regarding the tax credit, to help its mem-bers understand who qualied and how to seek the credit. Some chamber members said they had not applied because they didn’t qualify, but Keeney said the rules had changed and some applicants who previously had not qualied became eli-gible. The chamber did a follow-up survey and was able to quantify that its members received $3.2 million through the tax credit, Keeney said, add-ing, “that’s just what we know. “It’s meaningful money for our small busi-nesses,†he added. In the arena of affordable housing, the cham-ber played an active role in advocating against a temporary moratorium imposed on new multifamily development in a portion of Pasco County. Kennedy said the chamber sought “to edu-cate the (Pasco County) commission, to educate our members, to educate our community on the fact that developers don’t come into an oversat-urated market.†The chamber’s position was that “the politics of multifamily housing should be put to the side — that we need to focus on attainable housing for the future,†the chamber president said. Keeney noted affordable housing is needed to provide a place for front-line personnel to live in Pasco. “Everybody likes to have police and reght-ers and EMTs (emergency medical technicians) in our backyards, but if those folks can’t afford to live there, that’s a big problem. “They can’t afford the rent. They can’t afford single-family homes. “It became a real issue,†he said. Kennedy said when the word “moratorium†is associated with a community, it has a trick-le-down effect and is harmful to all developers. She said efforts must continue to address the shortage of housing needed for Pasco’s work-force. When it announced its selection as a nalist, the NTBC also explained the award compe-tition’s process. Chambers must qualify by meeting minimum thresholds in at least three of ve key performance areas in ACCE’s Annual Chamber Operations Survey, including net rev-enue and assets, membership account retention and membership dollar retention, the chamber’s posting said. They also must complete an extensive appli-cation. Applications are scored by peer chamber executives to determine the nalists. Winners are selected from among nalists based on an interview before a panel of experienced cham-ber professionals. Kennedy will be joined in that July 31 inter-view by Javan Grant, the NTBC’s board chairman last year. Other Florida organizations making it to the nal round in their division are The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce and the Orlando Economic Partnership. The winner in each division will be an-nounced on Aug. 1, during the Awards Show at ACCE’s Annual Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah. BAY CHAMBER, from page 1A Municipal Airport. In 2021, Hidden Lake Airport was added. The Pasco County Commission also took action in 2018 to approve an interlocal agree-ment with the City of Zephyrhills and Hernando County. The county board also hired a consultant to do noise contour studies, which were adopted by a resolution of the board. “Those noise contour studies are embed-ded within the ordinance that you’re looking at today,†Hernandez told the planning board. She also noted that a moratorium on devel-opment near airports was adopted by the county board in 2022. That moratorium is set to expire on Aug. 15. During the moratorium, Hernandez, Senior Assistant County Attorney Elizabeth Blair and other county staffers worked with stakeholders including land use attorneys, planners, engi-neers, airport owners, pilots and other interested parties to address the issues. “The Airport Zoning Commission held work-shops. The Airport Zoning Commission held public hearings,†Hernandez said. Once adopted, the ordinance will be adminis-tered by the county’s planning and development department, with appeals going to the planning board. The ordinance denes different areas pertain-ing to an airport, such as the airport inuence area, the airport zone and the airport surface area, and establishes uses that would be ac-ceptable, would be allowed with mitigation and would be prohibited.SEEKING FAIR APPLICATION OF NEW REGULATIONSPlanning board member Jon Moody wanted assurances that the new regulations would be applied fairly and consistently. Blair said the county patterned its ordinance after Santa Rosa County, which has an extensive airport zoning regulation land use compatibility chapter in its land use development code. She said that’s because Santa Rosa has scores of military installations and also has an airport, similar in size to Tampa Park Aero North Airport. Blair added: “We looked at our zoning maps. We looked at our Future Land Use maps. We looked at aerials, the property appraiser’s web-site, etc. — to actually see, what is the potential for the actual use of the land in the approach surface oor? “One of the things you don’t want to have in your approach surface area is a large assembly of people,†Blair said. “Obviously, you don’t put churches or schools or so forth in the area. “If you look at the true reality of what’s going on in Pasco County under these areas, almost everything is built out, except for around Zephyrhills and Pilot Country,†she added. Moody said he wants to ensure that deci-sions regarding requests for development near airports are not arbitrary and capricious. “My clients call to the county. They say, ‘I want to do this.’ Then someone at the county says, ‘Oh, no, no, no, you can’t do this, because in this ordinance it says, this. “Well then, what we nd out is that they got kind of half of the information,†Moody said.MITIGATION IS POSSIBLE“The process is intended to be a dialogue. ‘We identied a potential hazard here. How can we engineer a way (to solve the problem)?’,†Blair said. “There’s not a whole lot of bright, fast rules. But there’s ways to acknowledge that there might be a harm that should be addressed,†she said. Blair added: “Prior to the pre-application meeting, the airport operator is to be contact-ed with a proposal for what they’re doing. The airport operators have a lot more expertise as to what type of things would affect safe airport operations and safe air navigation. “They’re making comments to staff, which staff would consider. “This is the opportunity, much like an alter-native standard, where if there is a harm that’s identied — that’s legitimately a problem under FAA standards, then you can engineer away the problem. “A perfect example of that is what’s happen-ing across the street from Tampa North Aero. There was a discussion there In that situation, we actually met with the future applicants of property in the runway protection zone at that airport. “They had initially gone to the airport and said, ‘Hey, we’re thinking about putting some self-storage in here, what do you think? “The owner of the airport said he was OK with that. “Then they came to the county and said, ‘We think we want to do professional ofce, in-stead.’†“Well, it’s probably not a good idea to have people in buildings 40 hours a week near the airport,†Blair said. Once the airport operator learned of the pro-posed change, the operator told the county that it wouldn’t be a good idea to have an ofce in a runway protection zone, the attorney said. The applicant responded to the county’s con-cerns by removing the buildings from that area and using that area instead for a parking lot, street and dry detention area, Blair said. Hernandez also noted applicants need to go to the FAA and get a declaration that their plans do not pose a hazard to air navigation. Plus, she said: “There is opportunity for mitigation.â€ZEPHYRHILLS HAS A SET OF RULES, TOOBlair noted: “With the Zephyrhills Airport, we do have an interlocal agreement with the city that is going to be updated as part of this process. There are some things in their actual regulations that are incredibly out of date. “They are very happy with the ordinance. So, we’d like to incorporate some of this into how they operate. “We’ve also pointed out in this ordinance, here, about the two different jurisdictional is-sues going on here, so that folks coming to the county realize that they do need to go to Zephyrhills, as well. Zephyrhills has their own rules that apply. “Zephyrhills has some really great plans for expansion. They’ve received state funding. They’ve updated their master plan. They’re building a new hangar. “We’ve actually invested money there, through (Pasco) EDC (Economic Development Council) in projects there, so, a lot could poten-tially happen out there,†Blair said.The airport overlay district ordinance is sched-uled for rst reading by the county board on July 11, with an adoption hearing set for Aug. 8. AIRPORT, from page 1A residential projects. “I don’t think that we just want to bluntly have to say ‘No,’ or vote ‘No,’ on certain prod-ucts. “We want to be able to massage it and get what’s best for that area,†Weightman said. The county wants to ensure that the housing products it approves look good, which also is in the best interest of the homeowner, the county board member said. The issue came up for discussion during the board’s June 20 meeting, during an update on actions taken during the last session of the Flor-ida Legislature. Shawn Foster, of Sunrise Consulting, lobbied for the county during the session, as did Ralph Lair, the county’s intergovernmental affairs of-cer. Foster said an effort was made to get the bill amended, at the county board’s request. “We were told adamantly, ‘No. It is not hap-pening. We’re not changing it.’ They were very adamant,†Foster said. Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley said if the board can’t require the developers to enhance their projects, the county has another option. “We don’t have to have 40or 50-foot (wide) lots. If they don’t build something nice for our county, we don’t have to have that,†Oakley said. But Weightman maintained: “We want to have the discretion to approve the appropriate prod-uct, building product, in the appropriate space. “Regardless of how large or small, the lot size or the house is, we want a good quality home for our residents to live In and be proud of what’s here, and I hope the builder is proud of what they’ve built here,†Weightman said. “We’re being forced to potentially make a hard-line decision, where we wouldn’t maybe necessarily have to do that,†the county board member said. David Goldstein, chief assistant county attor-ney, reminded the county board: “This bill does not prevent a developer from imposing their own private architectural requirements. “So what’s happened since this bill took effect, I’ve seen at least three or four projects that were 40and 50-foot lots. They’re putting new language in their MPUDs that the devel-oper, on their own, will impose these restric-tions on themselves.†Oakley said he has seen some improvements in some developments with 40and 50-foot lots. “We have a lot of guys stepping to the table, to do better landscaping, better architecture, and they’re willing to do that. “The ones who aren’t willing to do that don’t have to build here. They can build somewhere else,†Oakley said. The county plans to take a more proactive stance before the next legislative session, which will be early because of the 2024 elections. Committee meetings start the week of Sept. 18 and will be held during October, November and December before the rst day of the session begins on Jan. 9, Lair said. Lair said the county wants to change its pos-ture before the session begins. “We hate always playing defense, up in Talla-hassee, when they won’t consider amendments during the process. They only give you a couple of minutes to discuss your point. “Why not meet with them before they start their committee meetings. “Some of our surrounding counties do this. They have a workshop,†he said, similar to the workshops the county does with its municipal-ities. “My proposal is that we do a workshop with the state and the federal delegation. Bring them in for about two hours,†Lair said. He suggested having the workshop a week before the legislators have their rst committee meetings. The board agreed to the approach, so Lair will be seeking to set that up. DEVELOPMENT, from page 1A MIKE CAMUNASThe Pasco County Commission prefers residential developments to have trees, to help enhance the beauty of neighborhoods. They have other ideas, too, on how to create attractive places for residents. Under a new state law, the board cannot dictate aesthetic requirements, but developers remain free to self-impose standards as part of a negotiation to have their zoning requests approved.
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12Awww.LakerLutzNews.com July 12, 2023 CallHudgins Law Firm800-950-5534C C i i v v i i l l T T r r i i a a l l P P r r a a c c t t i i c c e e • • F F r r e e e e C C o o n n s s u u l l t t a a t t i i o o n n HudginsLawFirm.net Call I I n n j ju ur re ed d? ? I I n n j ju ur re ed d? ? Drew Ben Hudgins, EsqZephyrhills, FL • CAR CRASHES • MOTORCYCLE CRASHES • TRUCK CRASHES • BOAT INJURIES • JET SKI CRASHES • TRIP & FALL INJURIES • SLIP & FALL INJURIES • SERIOUS INJURIES • WRONGFUL DEATH Your Neighborhood Sports Source Community Sports Community Sports Wheelchair basketball clinicThe Pasco County Parks, Recreation, & Natural Resources Department will host a wheelchair bas-ketball clinic on July 29 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Starkey Ranch District Park Gymnasium, 11946 Lake Blanche Ave., in Odessa. The clinic will be run by Paul Schulte, a Summer Paralympics medalist from Top End Wheel-chairs, a sporting wheelchair company in Pinellas Park. The clinic is $5 per athlete and for athletes with disabilities ages 5 to 18. Registration can be completed online at tinyurl.com/3zkta9n4. For more details, call Scarlett Lawhorne at 727-494-4878.Toddler sportsWesley Chapel District Park, 7727 Boyette Road, will bring back Toddler Sports for children ages 3 to 6 starting June 30. Registration is $40 per child. For more information, call 813-345-3145, or email Quinton Sloan at qsloan@pascocounty .net.Soccer clinicsFlorida Soccer Club will host soccer clinics in Zephyrhills at Samuel Pasco Fields, 39835 Chancey Road, in July, August and September, for boys and girls ages 7 to 12, or beginner level. Cost is $125 per player and includes a shirt. The clinics will be held the following dates: July 19 and July 26; Aug. 2, Aug. 9, Aug.16, Aug. 23, Aug. 30; and, Sept. 6, Sept. 13, and Sept. 20.For more information or to register, email Gary Blissett at blissettgary@gmail.com.Summer golf programsPlantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., in Land O' Lakes, will offer a $1 summer golf practice program for kids ages 4 to 15 through Aug. 31. The program allows kids to sign up to receive a $1 small bucket of range balls and/or a $1 round of miniature golf each day. In addition to the Free Bucket or Mini-Golf program, kids can play golf for $1 when accom-panied by a paying parent at all Ace Golf Courses, which includes Plantation Palms and Crescent Oaks Country Club in Tarpon Springs, beginning after noon every day through the end of October.For more information, visit PlantationPalms.net.9/11 golf tournamentPasco County Professional Fire ghters Local 4420 will host its inaugural 9/11 Golf Tournament on Sept. 11 at 11 a.m., at Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., in Land O' Lakes.Cost is $125 per person or $500 per four-person team, and includes fees, cart, range balls, lunch and dinner. Local 4420 was chartered in 2005 to organize re ghters and guarantee safer working conditions, equitable wages and contribute time and resources to the community and help charities such as the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Sydney has a Sister and the Children’s Burn Camp. For more information or to register, contact Stephen Stanforth, communications director, Pasco County Professional Fire ghters, Local 4420, at sstanforth@iaff4420.org.To submit notable sports news, event infor-mation, and individual or team accomplish-ments, email mcamunas@lakerlutznews.com.Florida Elite Swimming, a club based out of Land O’ Lakes Swimming Pool, has been producing some of the area’s top swimmers for years and is showing no signs of slowing downBy Mike Camunasmcamunas@lakerlutznews.comThese swimmers are off the deep end. For competitive swimming, that is.The Florida Elite Warriors swimming team, based out of the pool complex at Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center, has, for years, been producing some of the top swimmers in the area — with athletes being locally and nationally ranked. It looks to continue doing just that, especially with Guerby Ruuska, the team’s second-year head coach. “We always talk about quality over quantity,†Ruuska said. “There’s a place for kicking kids’ butts — but what they need to do here, and what we try to do, is really focus on technique. We have a lot of kids who come from other clubs and say the same thing — they didn’t get the teaching techniques they get here, and we, and they, just want (the team) culture to be really fun and light.“On deck, coaches won’t be screaming at kids, so our lessons work, because they’re on how to swim and how to be good people out of the pool.“They don’t get that somewhere else.â€Ruuska, while a relatively young coach, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the pool deck.Originally from Haiti, he swam for Manchester University in Indiana and was even slated to swim for his home country in the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2020 before those were postponed by COVID. “After that, I put my suit and goggles away and started coaching,†Ruuska said. “I mean, yeah, I still get in, but the kids are kicking my butt now.â€Ruuska also coaches at Sunlake High, which is a perfect transition for both him as a coach and the swimmers. Florida Elite works as a “feeder system†to local high schools, such as Sunlake, Land O’ Lakes, Wiregrass Ranch and Cypress Creek. Florida Elite has been doing this for years, and its swimmers are very competitive for both the club and their schools. “We’ve kind of become the aquatic hub for Pasco County, so we just want to provide something for all the kids in the area,†Ruuska said. “We also want to be the competitive place for the swimmers who want to take it to the next level. “We just want to be a home for all the swimmers, wherever they come from and wherever they want to go,†he added. “Of course, we get all the locals and national-level kids. So, for us, when the swimmers are here, high school is seen as the cherry on top.“It may be a big goal, but it's not the end goal for this club.†The Warriors compete in swimming events and competitions consistently — they also have a synchronized swimming team — but they also can start a new swimmer from the kiddie pool. The team doesn’t just take already polished swimmers — it develops the new, young talent as soon as they dive on in. It’s why the athletes come to Florida Elite in the rst place — for proven results. “There’s not a team like this anywhere,†said Owen Kerrigan, an incoming freshman at Land O’ Lakes High that excels in the 50-meter freestyle. “The coaches are awesome, the swimmers are fabulous, and we work a lot on technique and don’t just jump in the pool and count strokes. “I’ve been with other teams, and this one is just better. The last place I was at, he was an Olympic swimmer, but he didn't even really swim and wasn’t really paying attention to detail.“Here, I’m dropping time and that’s huge.†Warriors teammate Hisrusha IdippiliPathiranage, who returned to the team three years ago and excels in the 50-meter butter y, agrees. “(My old) team wasn’t really xing my technique,†she said. “They thought I was ne, but I came back here, and (Elite) xed it, and I got better. I saw that as soon as I got back here. They knew exactly what I needed to do, what drills I needed, and I see improvement here.â€Idippili-Pathiranage added that swimming also helps her with other sports, which is a bonus, as she looks to expand her athletic portfolio.“The more we work together, the more it pays off,†she said. “(Swimming here) gives me im-provement, but it also helps me with other sports, because I’m probably going to do track. That’s a lot of running, so here swimming (at Elite) is going to help me with that, too.†Florida Elite SwimmingWhere: Land O’ Lakes Swimming Pool, 3032 Collier Parkway, in Land O’ LakesDetails: Florida Elite Aquatics is an inclusive, fun and instructive aquatics program that teaches its members to love aquatic sports from lessons to national level competition, with both a swimming team and a synchro team. The club strives to show the value of hard work, dedication and determination in and out of the water by providing a safe, healthy and positive environment.Info: Visit SwimElite.org or the team’s Facebook page at Facebook.com/FloridaEliteSwimming, or call 813-279-5443. Pooling together their elite talent CHECK THIS OUTSEND SPORTS NEWS TO MCAMUNAS@LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM MIKE CAMUNASFlorida Elite Swimming member Hailey McArdle works on her breast stroke technique during a June 23 practice at Land O’ Lakes Swimming Pool, 3032 Collier Parkway, in Land O' Lakes. McArdle is one of several swimmers with the longtime program that has produced state and nationally ranked athletes that compete all over the country, as well as go on to become some of the best high school swimmers in the area and state. Jayden Rodriguez comes up for air during a practice lap for Florida Elite Swimming at Land O’ Lakes Swimming Pool. Coach Guerby Ruuska, with Florida Elite Swimming, who has been with the team for two years now, gives pacing and timing instructions to his swimmers during practice. Florida Elite Swimming Club in Land O’ Lakes has dozens of swimmers, including 8-year-olds through high-schoolers.MIKE CAMUNASPaul Schulte, right, will lead a wheelchair basketball clinic on July 29.
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