The Laker-East Pasco-June 9, 2021 by LakerLutzNews

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DeSantis pens $101.5 billion budget

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

It’s not very often the governor makes a public appearance in Zephyrhills, let alone to make a major statewide announcement. But that’s what happened on June 2, when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis appeared at Zephyrhills City Hall for a state budget-signing ceremony — penning into law a record-setting $101.5 billion budget for fiscal year 2021-2022.

The invite-only press conference drew several dozens of area residents, business owners and government officials, in a standing-room only affair. “It’s great to be in Pasco County,” DeSantis said, opening his speech.“It’s great to be here.” The Republican governor was accompanied by several members of the Republican-led state legislature, including Florida Senate President Wilton Simpson (RTrilby), Florida House Speaker Chris

Sprowls (R-Palm Harbor), state Rep. Randy Maggard (R-Dade City), state Rep. Ardian Zika (R-Land O’ Lakes), state Sen. Danny Burgess, (R-Zephyrhills), state Rep. Amber Mariano (R-Hudson), and state Sen. Kelli Stargel (R-Lakeland), among others. As for dropping by the City of Pure Water, DeSantis acknowledged plans to stop somewhere in the Tampa Bay region for one of his multiple budget-signing ceremonies. See DESANTIS, page 9A

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‘Unique subdivision’ meets resistance By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

The idea of creating a subdivision in Land O’ Lakes for catastrophically injured veterans, and surviving families of fallen first responders and for Gold Star families has broad appeal — but even with the popularity of the cause, a proposed rezoning for the project is meeting resistance. The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation has proposed the first neighborhood in the nation specifically designed to serve its recipients be located on about 75 acres, on the south side of Parkway Boulevard, about one-half mile east of Ehren Cutoff.The site is between the Panther Run and Dupree Lakes subdivisions. The foundation was established 20 years ago by Frank Siller, to honor the sacrifice of his brother, Stephen Siller, a firefighter who laid down his life to save others on Sept. 11, 2001. Matt Mahoney, executive vice president of the foundation, explained the concept of the project — via a remote feed during an April 22 meeting of the Pasco County Planning Commission meeting. “Our recipients are all gifted these homes.These are mortgage-free homes,” Mahoney said. “We have the financial wherewithal to do this. The land was donated to us,” Mahoney said.“We’re in a strong financial situation to move forward with this project.” The foundation has a solid track record, said Cyndi Tarapani, a professional planner representing the applicant. But residents in the adjacent Panther Run neighborhood and members of the Pasco County Planning Commission raised objections to the proposal. Those concerns initially were aired during the April 22 meeting, which was continued until May, to give the applicant time to respond to the concerns. At the May 20 planning board meeting, the issues were much the same. Would-be neighbor Tim Robinson, of 6444 Paw Place, put it like this “I can’t say enough how much I like what See SUBDIVISION, page 9A

SIGN WARS

INSIDE, PAGE 1B

COURTESY OF CITY OF ZEPHYRHILLS

City of Zephyrhills administrators and officials pose for a picture with Gov. Ron DeSantis outside of Zephyrhills City Hall. From left: Council President Alan Knight, City Attorney Matt Maggard, Councilman Ken Burgess, Mayor Gene Whitfield, DeSantis, Council Vice President Jodi Wilkeson and City Manager Billy Poe.

Hercules Park workshop set for June 10 By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

Zephyrhills residents will have an opportunity to weigh in on the future development and proposed amenities of Hercules Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring their ideas and opinions to a public workshop meeting on June 10 at 6 p.m., at Zephyrhills City Hall, 5335 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills. Other stakeholders in attendance are expected to include the city’s parks and recreation advisory board, CRA (Community Redevelopment Agency) board and representatives from the project’s consultant, Kimley-Horn. The City of Zephyrhills in recent months has pondered ways to spruce up the languished 12-acre park property at the corner of County Road 54 and Gall Boulevard, next to Zephyrhills High and Woodland Elementary schools. One possibility for the park’s update includes installing a BMX (bicycle motocross) track where youth and adult bike enthusiasts traverse winding trails and thrilling jumps, in a safe and comfortable setting. The latest conceptual sketch plan from Kimley-Horn shows a circuitous riding trail spanning roughly 5.29 acres of the park property, albeit with many details still to be hashed out. Height levels on jumps and bumps haven’t yet been determined, but the track is expected to have variations for beginner, intermediate and advanced bikers — keeping safety in mind, too. Surface material hasn’t been decided, either, though one option is a dirt track with wooden features for jumps and stunts. Also proposed is a paved pathway encircling the BMX course for parents, walkers and runners to use for general exercise purposes. Based on renderings, remaining Hercules Park property upgrades would then take on a mostly passive vibe — with a nearly 1-acre open playfield, 1.42-acre playground and picnic/shelter area, and a soft walking trail surrounding an existing retention pond and lighted fountain spray. An open playfield —situated at the former Hercules Aquatic Center — would offer a grassy space for throwing footballs, Frisbees and so on. A playground, meanwhile, could include some nature-based equipment beyond conventional slides and swings — think rock climb, bridges, tunnels, rope play structures and more. The budget for the entire Hercules Park

FILE

The City of Zephyrhills will host a workshop on June 10, to gather public input about the development of Hercules Park. Renovations could feature a circuitous BMX bike track with jumps and rollers, plus other passive amenities, based on this conceptual sketch from the project’s consultant, Kimley-Horn. The 12-acre park site is situated at the corner of County Road 54 and Gall Boulevard.

renovation will be determined from the workshop, where amenities could be added or removed based on community feedback, Zephyrhills CRA director Gail Hamilton wrote in an email to The Laker/Lutz News. Final design and construction is expected sometime after park funding is identified for the city’s 2021-2022 fiscal year, Hamilton says. Depending on the amenities and project

cost, the development could be completed in a year, or built out over multiple years, she said. City officials also have previously mentioned facilitating public-private partnerships for some of the park’s improvements. In addition to its proximity to local See PARK, page 9A

Speakers address mental health needs One expert focuses on preventing suicides; the other talks about partnerships between mental health providers and law enforcement aimed at helping mentally ill people to get help and to avoid jail time.

Warning signs of suicide • Increased alcohol and drug use • Aggressive behavior • Withdrawal from friends, family and community • Dramatic mood swings • Impulsive or reckless behavior • Collecting and saving pills or buying a weapon • Giving away possessions • Tying up loose ends, like organizing personal papers or paying off debts • Saying goodbye to friends and family

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

Suicide prevention and partnerships between law enforcement and mental health providers were the focus of talks delivered in a Zoom Session, on May 11, hosted by Saint Leo University’s East Pasco Education Center. Sarah Shirina, licensed supervisor of behavioral health with BayCare Behavioral Health, shared her expertise on the topic of suicide prevention, while also discussing local services that are available to help people struggling with mental illness. Shirina is the supervisor over BayCare Behavioral Health’s mobile response team in Hernando County. She’s also an adjunct professor for Saint Leo University, with a bachelor’s and master’s degree in social work from the university. She began by sharing national suicide data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Suicide, unfortunately, is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. It is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, claiming over 48,000 lives. “Suicide was the second-leading cause of death in individuals, between the ages of 10 and 34, and the fourth leading cause of death, among individuals between the ages of 35 and 54,” she said. “There were actually 2½ times as many suicides in the United States as there were homicides, in 2018. “So, what does that look like for our state? In 2019, Florida had a total of 3,427 deaths by suicide. “In Florida, suicide is the eighth-leading cause of death,” Shirina said, adding the age group of 55 to 64 is most affected. Shirina shared information derived from a research project by BayCare Behavioral Health and the University of South Florida, focusing on suicide in the Tampa Bay region. Hot spots have been identified in all five counties in the Tampa Bay area, Shirina said. “Hernando, Pasco and Pinellas, unfortunately, are all ahead and have higher averages of suicide deaths than the state of Florida. “You’ll see that all of Florida had a total of 15 deaths per 100,000.And Hernando, Pasco and Pinellas are all in the 20s (per 100,000),” she said. “Suicide affects men at a much greater percentage than it does women. The study found that from 2010 to 2016, the suicide rate for men was twice as great as it was for women, she said. “As our age groups increase, our military population is at a greater risk to be affected by suicide,” she added. One of the big conclusions of the research was that Pasco, Hernando and Pinellas bear a disproportionate burden of death by suicide, in comparison to the state and surrounding counties, Shirina said. Another conclusion:These are the same counties that bear the burden of the opioid addiction crisis. She also noted that “80% of people who died by suicide had never had an involuntary examination, also known as the Baker Act. “This, to me, was an alarming statistic,” Shirina said. Among those who had undergone a Baker Act examination, 60% of those who died by suicide did so one or more years

COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF SAINT LEO

Dawn Wever addressed efforts being made to help mentally ill people get the help they need, instead of being locked up in jail.

after their involuntary examination. The study also found that middle- and older-aged white men had the highest rates of suicide, and among those who died by suicide, many had military backgrounds. The research showed that guns were the most common method of suicide by men in all five counties. By comparison, in Hillsborough, Pasco and Polk counties, more women died by overdose than did by guns, Shirina said. “So, what can we do to help those who may be struggling?” Shirina asked. Safety planning can help. “When we’re safety planning with someone, we’re identifying their warning signs, their triggers and their stressful events that could lead to a crisis. We’re discussing with that person what they can do, what coping skills they can use to feel better. “We’re discussing their support network. Who can they call when they need help? Who can they lean on? “If possible, we often use that support network, when we’re creating these safety plans,” she said. “We talk about what they look forward to in the future.What is important to them and what is worth living for? This is a great reminder, when someone is having these deep thoughts, that there are things in their future that they look forward to, and really, what is worth living for? “We give a copy of this plan to them and to their support system, if possible, and we encourage them to keep it somewhere safe, so they can use it when they’re feeling upset,” Shirina said. Dawn Wever, the second speaker during the session, is a practicing mental health counselor. She’s been an instructor in Crisis Intervention Team training for a number of law enforcement agencies. She’s also been a presenter on the topic at state conferences, is a former board member for National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Hernando and has done considerable research on collaborations between law enforcement and mental health professionals. One in five Americans are affected by mental illness in any given year, according to statistics from NAMI,Wever said.That equates to approximately 57.7 million Americans living with mental illness. Of those, just 41% will receive treatment in any given year. Research also shows that the average length of time from initial diagnosis to the onset of treatment is 10 years, she said. She shared the story of the Memphis Police Department Crisis Intervention Team, which in later years came to be known as the Memphis Model. The model stemmed from a 1987 inci-

Sarah Shirina addressed suicide prevention during a speaker series hosted by Saint Leo University.

Suicidal behaviors are a psychiatric emergency. If you or a loved one exhibits these behaviors, seek immediate help from a health care provider or call 911. If you are unsure, a licensed mental health professional can help assess.

Source: National Alliance on Mental Illness

Need help? • Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255. • Call 2-1-1 for additional resources.

Want to help? BayCare offers free Mental Health First Aid Training. To find out more, call 800-878-5470.

dent in which police officers were called to an area of public housing in Memphis, where a young man was threatening with a knife, she said. Police officers ordered him to put down the knife. He refused. Eventually, police opened fire and the man was killed, she said. “The mayor of Memphis turned to local advocates from NAMI and enlisted police, community mental health professionals, university leaders, hospital administrators, church officials to find a new approach to working with persons with mental illness, who are in crisis,” she said. The approach involves a 40-hour, weeklong training for officers, deputies, detention personnel and dispatch, as well, regarding the recognition and understanding of signs and symptoms of mental illness, and focuses on verbal, de-escalation techniques, said Wever, who holds a master of arts/psychology from Saint Leo University. Encounters between police and the mentally ill began increasing after deinstitutionalization of psychiatric facilities began happening in the 1980s and 1990s, she said. The expectation was that communitybased mental health care facilities would provide treatment to those individuals released from psychiatric hospitals. Instead, county jails have become the largest mental health facilities in the country, added Wever, who has been in private practice since 2012. The Rand Corporation estimated in 2020 that 15% of the men and 31% of the women incarcerated across the country have a serious and persistent mental illness,Wever said. According to NAMI estimates, at least 400,000 currently behind bars in the United States suffer from some type of mental illness, Wever added. The organization also estimates that 25% to 40% of all mentally ill Americans will be incarcerated at some point in their lives. She told Zoom listeners about a mental health unit operated by the San Antonio Police (Texas) Department . “That’s regarded as one of the best law enforcement-based mental health units in the country,” she said. “It was established in 2008 and to date,

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Suicide Myths Sarah Shirina, licensed supervisor of behavioral health with BayCare Behavioral Health, discussed some myths about suicide during a recent Zoom presentation hosted by the University of Saint Leo. Here’s an excerpt from what she shared: Myth: Talking about suicide or asking someone if they feel suicidal will encourage suicide attempts. Fact: Talking about suicide provides the opportunity for communication. Fears that are shared are more likely to diminish. Myth: People who talk about suicide never attempt or die by suicide. Fact: Talking about suicide can be a plea for help, and it can be a late sign in the progression toward a suicide attempt. Those who are most at risk will show other signs, apart from talking about suicide. Myth: If a person attempts suicide and survives, they will never make a further attempt. Fact: A suicide attempt is regarded as an indicator of further attempts. It is likely that the level of danger will increase with each further suicide attempt. Just because someone has attempted suicide previously does not mean they are no longer at risk of attempting in the future. Myth: Once a person has suicidal intent, there is no way of stopping them. Fact: This is so far from the truth because suicides can be prevented. People can be helped. Suicidal crises can be relatively short-lived. Immediate practical help, such as staying with the person, encouraging them to talk and helping them build plans for the future can avert an intention to attempt or die by suicide. Such immediate help is valuable at the time of a crisis, but appropriate counseling also will be needed.

they have maintained zero use of force in a mental health call for service,”Wever said. Shirina and Wever gave the final two presentations during a Social Services Speaker Series, which began on April 13. Besides being informative, the series was intended to give participants exposure to a wide range of career opportunities in the helping professions. To find out more about Saint Leo University’s East Pasco Education Center, email Derek Saunier, center director, at derek.saunier@ saintleo.edu or call 352-588-7451.

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Electric cooperative donates $400,000 to Kirkland Academy A new high school that is expected to open in East Pasco will provide programming that aims to give students a solid start on a wide array of career paths. By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

The Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC) has donated $400,000 to help Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation to purchase equipment for the school, now under construction off Curley Road, in East Pasco. The donation “represents an investment in the next generation of engineers, IT professionals, electrical linemen, and entrepreneurs,” according to a news release from Pasco County Schools. The school district plans to open the new school in the fall of 2022. It will offer programs aimed to equip students “with 21st-Century employability skills and entrepreneurial experiences to enhance their long-term career prospects,” the release says. The school is expected to have an enrollment of 1,000 students. Its programs will include digital technology, engineering, biomedical science, transportation, building technology and others, the release adds. The donation from the electric cooperative will go toward buying the equipment needed to prepare Kirkland Academy students for high-skill, high-wage careers. “With technology rapidly changing particularly in the utility sector, WREC felt it essential to invest in an educational program that focuses on the latest in technology and innovation,” said Billy Brown, the electric cooperative’s chief executive officer. The 184,000-square-foot school is within the electric cooperative’s five-county service area. Having one of the largest employers in Pasco County partnering with the school district will help to ensure the success of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, Pasco School Superintendent Kurt

COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY SCHOOLS

An aerial view of ongoing work at the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, a new high school that will help to prepare students for a wide variety of career paths.

Browning said in the release. “We have big plans for the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, and it’s great to see that Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative is as excited about it as we are,” Browning said.“This generous donation will enable students to have the kinds of cutting edge, hands-on educational experiences that will be a distinguishing feature of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation.” At a school board meeting last year, the team working on the design and construction of the school provided details about the site and plans, as well as offering a glimpse of its planned programs. The 104-acre school site is about 3 miles due east of Interstate 75.

The campus is projected to cost approximately $70 million, according to district officials.And, the school will not have an attendance zone. Like Wendell Krinn Technical High School, the new Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation will attract students based on interest in its varied programs. It’s at the northwest edge of Kirkland Ranch, on Curley Road, at the eastern edge of Wesley Chapel. It’s about 3 miles north of Watergrass Elementary School. The site is at more than 40 feet of elevation, and includes an existing pond and oak trees. A number of career and technical education labs are planned, including those

designed for digital media, engineering robotics, biomedical and patient care. Automotive, diesel, welding, construction, electrical and cybersecurity programs are planned, as well. The diesel program will be one of a few in the state. Those programs are in addition to core academic classes and electives. Students will be able to learn about entrepreneurship and business, as well as foreign language, math and science. In addition to the high school, the school district is planning for the future. A large portion of the property, east of the high school, has been maintained for a future kindergarten through eighth grade school.

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What’s Happening

Your Community Calendar • Submit 2 weeks in advance to: news@lakerlutznews.com • All listings free of charge

SUMMER READING

The Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library System kicked off its Tails and Tales 2021 Summer Reading Program on June 1, for all ages.The program includes a series of reading challenges, activities and online presentations that will feature animal encounters, magic, music, science, trivia and more. Participants can be eligible for prize drawings that include books, Bluetooth speakers, cameras, gaming consoles, headphones, robotics, tablets and other items.Visit HCPLC.org, and click on the “Online Events and Classes” tab, to find live or pre-recorded programs. For information, call 813-273-3652.

ANIMAL CRAFT

at 813-300-9277 or beth@blanketampabay.org.

Help Pasco Sheriff’s Office help others

CLASSIC MOVIES

The Pasco Sheriff’s Office is hosting its PSO4Kids Drive now through July 31, for children in need. Donations of clothing and hygiene items will be collected at the PSO’s three district offices, as well as the Land O’ Lakes Detention Center lobby. Drop-off locations are: • District I Office, 7432 Little Road, New Port Richey • District II Office, 36409 State Road 52, Dade City • District III Office, 11530 Trinity Blvd., Trinity • Land O’ Lakes Detention Center, 20101 Central Blvd., Land O’ Lakes And, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office and community partners, such as the Pasco NAACP and local churches, will host its next free drive-thru food distribution on June 24, at West Pasco Little League, 6220 Pine Hills Road in New Port Richey. The event will run from 9 a.m., until the food supply is gone. Distribution is on a first-come, first-served basis, rain or shine.

The Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St., will host its Summer Classics Movie Series, with added showings. Upcoming movies include: • “Airplane!” June 13 at 3 p.m., June 17 at 7:30 p.m. • “The Gold Rush,” June 20 at 3 p.m., June 24 at 7:30 p.m. • “Citizen Kane,” June 27 at 3 p.m., Jul 1 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the box office and $12 online ($7 for theater members). Silent Films are $13 at the box office and $15 online ($10 for theater members). For details and a complete movie schedule, visit TampaTheatre.org.

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present an animal-themed craft on June 10 at 10 a.m., at Facebook.com/CPLib. Participants can learn to create a heart pig, using their own supplies and following along with a video.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

DRAWING LESSON

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host a Zoom drawing lesson,“Old McDonald had a Sketchbook,” on June 10 at 4 p.m.Tune in for an art lesson on how to draw cute farm animals. Bring paper, pencils and coloring materials to follow along. Participants will be able to share their work at the end of the session. Registration is required.A Zoom link will be emailed prior to the event. For questions, email emilyb@pascolibraries.org.

Uptown Stage, at the University Mall, 2200 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa.This presentation, arranged by Dramatists Play Service, includes the humor, raw emotions and rocky roads experienced in life. Motherhood Out Loud contains adult language and adult content; parental discretion is advised.Tickets are $20. For more information, visit NewTampaPlayers.org.

CIRQUE ALCATRAZ

LODGE BARBECUE

Cirque Alcatraz, featuring aerial acts, stunts, displays of human strength and balance, illusions and comedy, will take place June 10 to June 20, at the Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6330 Wesley Grove Blvd., under the orange-striped big top tent.The event is for adults and children ages 13 and older. Tickets start at $10. One free child admission will be offered with every fullprice adult ticket in levels 2 or 3. For promo codes, show times and tickets, call 941-7048572, or visit CirqueItalia.com/tickets.

NEW TAMPA PLAYERS

The New Tampa Players have several shows coming up during the summer. “Motherhood Out Loud” will take place on June 11, June 18 and June 19 at 7:30 p.m., and on June 13 and June 20 at 3 p.m., at

Zephyr Lodge 198 F & AM will host a barbecue chicken event on June 12 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at its facility, 5950 12th St., in Zephyrhills.There also will be a lodge open house from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.The meal includes chicken quarters, cole slaw, baked beans, rolls and dessert for $10. For information, contact Cliff McDuffie at 813782-0877 or zgator@verizon.net.

HANDBELL CONCERTS

The SuncoastBronze Ringers will present concerts of English handbells, for all ages. • June 12 at 4 p.m.: United Church of Christ, 4826 Bartelt Road in Holiday • June 13 at 4 p.m.: Palm Harbor United Methodist Church, 1551 Belcher Road in Palm Harbor • June 19 at 7 p.m.: First United Methodist

Church, 960 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz Tickets are $10, and $7 for children and seniors.Tickets must be purchased online, in advance, at SuncoastBronzeRingers.com. All venues will adhere to social distancing. For information, call Valerie Bush at 240731-3004.

CURBSIDE CRAFT

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a Summer Reading Club Curbside Craft Kit: Fish Tales on June 12 at 10 a.m., while supplies last. For information, call 813-929-1214.

AFTERNOON TEA

Blanket Tampa Bay will host an Afternoon Tea fundraiser on June 12 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Empress Tea, 6463 W. Hillsborough Ave., in Tampa. Blanket Tampa Bay was started in 2015 and is dedicated to serving the homeless by providing everyday needs. Each year, the organization gives out more than 5,000 blankets and thousands of hygiene items across the Tampa Bay community, involving people of every age, interest and need, according to its website. Guests at the tea can learn more about the charity and enter to win a prize for the best hat.The cost is $20 per person. For information and to RSVP, contact Beth Ross

The Church at Myrtle Lake will host its Vacation Bible School,“Destination Dig,” from June 14 to June 18, from 9 a.m. to noon, daily, for kindergarten through fifth grade. Kids will study tangible pieces of the past to learn the truth about who Jesus is and why He came.There will be crafts, games, snacks, songs and more.Admission is free. For information, call 813-949-5516.

GARDEN SUMMER CAMP

UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension will host a Community Gardens Summer Camp program from June 14 to June 18, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., for kids ages 8 to 12, at its One Stop Shop, 15029 14th St., in Dade City.Activities will include gardening; seed planting; learning about good bugs and bad bugs; hydroponics and vermiculture; building toad houses; and more.All camp participants will be required to wear a face covering while attending events. For information, in English, call 352-521-1255. In Spanish, call 352-521-1254. Registration is online at bit.ly/communitygardensummercamp.

REPUBLICAN CLUB

The East Pasco Republican Club will meet on June 15 at 6 p.m., at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills, in the Tuttle Room.The guest speaker will be Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council. More WHAT’S, page 5A

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DEMOCRATIC CLUB

The Central Pasco Democratic Club will meet on June 16, via Zoom.The guest speaker will be Ant Avila, DEC chairperson of the diversity and inclusion committee. Socializing starts at 6:30 p.m., and the meeting starts at 6:45 p.m. For details and Zoom link, email centralpascodemocraticclub@gmail.com.

LIVE THEATER

The Tampa JCCs and Federation will host a live theater performance of “All My Sons,” by Arthur Miller, at the Cohn Campus J Stage Theatre, on June 17 at 7 p.m., June 19 at 8 p.m., and June 20 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Seating will be socially distanced and masks will be required at all times.Actors will be unmasked.Tickets are $20 each, and sold in single seats and pods of two, three or four seats together. For information about the show and tickets, visit JCCcohncampus.com/jstage.

EAST PASCO DEMOCRATS

The East Pasco Democratic Club will host a “Coffee and Politics in the Park” social on June 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills. Refreshments and music will be provided. For information, visit Facebook.com/eastpascodems, or call 813383-8315.

NETWORKING GROUP

The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on June 22 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City.The guest speaker will be model/actress Leja Apple. For information, contact Nils Lenz at 813-782-9491 or nilslenz@gmail.com, or Vicky Jones at 813431-1149 or donlvicl@yahoo.com.

SUSTAINABILITY CLUB

The Sustainability Club Summer Reading Series is a collaboration with Hernando County Public Libraries, Pasco County Public Libraries, Pasco-Hernando State College and the New Port Richey Public Library.The summer program is offered in a virtual setting via Zoom. Upcoming topics will include Social Sustainability on June 24 and Financial Sustainability on July 22. Reading will be comprised of articles that anyone can access through the Florida Electronic Library (FEL).All library card holders have access to FEL.Articles and Zoom links will be emailed to participants when they register for the event. Registration is online through PascoLibraries.org. For questions, email Kayla Kuni at kunik@phsc.edu.

SEEKING VENDORS

The 12th annual Harvest Festival scheduled for Oct. 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in downtown Zephyrhills, is seeking vendors. Applications are being accepted for vendors/ministries, sponsors and food trucks. For information, call 615-440-2044, or email serving_the_lord@msn.com.

ART EXHIBITION

The Pace Center for Girls – Pasco County has teamed up with The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) for an art exhibition entitled,“My Art My Way.”Arts4All Florida coordinated the statewide artist-in-residence program for students with and without disabilities in schools and the Department of Juvenile Justice facilities.The inspired artworks will be on display at MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa, through July 16. For information, visit Arts4AllFlorida.org, or call Dee Miller, director of education, at 813-9571772.

#TheLakerTopPop

Last year’s winners.

Want to give your dad/husband/boyfriend the ultimate Father’s Day Gift? HERE’S HOW: • Submit your favorite photo and a few sentences on why your dad/husband/boyfriend deserves to win to kcarmack@lakerlutznews.com by June 13. TWO WINNERS — people’s and publisher’s choice — will receive a gift basket full of gift certificates/prizes from local businesses. Winners will be notified on June 17, and announced in the June 23 edition of The Laker/Lutz News and our social media sites.

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June 9, 2021

valon pplauds Hope Services

If you know a student or nonprofit deserving of recognition, please email your nominee suggestion to kcarmack@lakerlutznews.com. PROFILED NOMINEES RECEIVE A $50 GIFT CARD FROM A LOCAL BUSINESS.

CINDY BRAY, Executive Director, Hope Services

CONGRATULATIONS to Hope Services a nonprofit in Wesley Chapel, for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. Hope Services is a vocational service organization that seeks to find jobs for people living with disabilities. The nonprofit got its start in 2003, when executive director Cindy Bray was helping her disabled daughter, Danica, find employment. “I went with Danica to a program helping people with disabilities find employment,” says Bray, “The program leaders thought I was Danica’s job coach. Long story short, I became their first job coach and worked there for almost two years, and then was encouraged to start my own nonprofit.” And thus, Hope Services was born. Bray and her staff offer many tools and resources for their clients, such as vocational and worksite evaluations, work incentives planning and assistance, work readiness/pre-placement training, on-thejob training, employment and supported services, and mental health counseling. “The first thing we do is get to know our clients, understand their abilities and interests/goals for employment,” says Bray. One of Bray’s favorite success stories is actually with her first client— a young gentleman who was soft-spoken with broken English, walked with crutches and living with polio. “He was my toughest client, yet I was determined that if I could find a successful job for him, then I was on the right path,” says Bray. Bray ended up finding him a job at a factory that produces parachutes for skydiving. The young man’s new job was to burn the threads of the harnesses once they were completely sewn. After he was hired, he looked at Bray and said “I knew you wouldn’t give up on me!” “That is all it took to know I am making

a difference in the lives of others,” says Bray. From that experience, Bray learned that there is a job out there for everyone. One of the most rewarding parts of Bray’s job is her weekly staff meetings. Every time her team meets, they share their “3:13 story,” which is a reference to the Hebrews 3:13 passage: “Encourage one another daily.” “We aren’t able to get together daily, but when we are together, each member takes three minutes and thirteen seconds to share a success story. We either clap, or cry, in joy,” says Bray. Bray not being in the field anymore gives her time to plan for the future of Hope Services. One of those plans includes partnering with the new Wesley Chapel District Parks and Recreation center to start the nonprofit’s first vocational training pilot program this Fall. The nonprofit will have a 1,400square-foot space with a full industrial kitchen. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, they will have trainings to help the clients figure out what career industry they should pursue. The other two days of the week will be on-the-job training at local businesses. Bray expects this program to cost around $75,000 and is always looking for private individuals, businesses and corporations to help support her vision. If you wish to help support the nonprofit, Bray says you can contribute by working with Hope Services, partnering alongside for employment opportunities, donating, and/or volunteering your time and talents. Hope Services also is need of a van for transportation of its clients for its on-the-job training portion of the vocational training program. For more information on Hope Services, visit HopeGetsJobs.com.

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Saying goodbye to a challenge-filled school year By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

Some Pasco County School board members and the president of the employee union took a few moments during the board’s June 1 meeting to reflect on efforts made during this previous school year — to cope with challenges posed by COVID-19. Don Peace, president of the United School Employees of Pasco, summed up the last school year this way: “Well, we made it. A most inconvenient, challenge-filled year is now finished. “We didn’t make it without cost.We lost a few pretty special people along the way. “There were some students who never really connected, and the mental taxation to all of us was monumental. “Despite all of this, I thought we planned and executed a pretty remarkable year. “Compared to districts and states around the country, who never returned to school, Pasco is light years ahead in giving our students the best educational opportunity to move forward, under extraordinary circumstances,” Peace said. School board member Cynthia Armstrong agreed with Peace’s assessment. “It was a tough year. I don’t think any of us ever want to go through anything like this again. “We still were able to accomplish some amazing things. “A lot of life lessons were learned by everyone, including the students,” Armstrong said. “I really want to thank all of the students and staff at all of the schools for everything they did to help keep our students safe this year, (and to) make sure that learning and extracurricular activities continued,” Armstrong said. Peace echoed that appreciation, giving kudos to teachers, support personnel, district staff, community partners, parents and grandparents for their help during a difficult year. School board member Colleen Beaudoin also expressed gratitude for the flexibility demonstrated by school leaders, in light of changing circumstances. “I know it’s not easy, but they have adapted,” Beaudoin said.

Peace said he knows the coming year will be challenging on the financial front, particularly because much of the state money coming to the district must be spent in specific ways. The union leader also formally requested that USEP be included in discussions over how federal money, provided in COVID-19 relief, is spent in the district. Regarding district spending, Beaudoin asked if the district can seek to reduce paper costs. “Can we move more toward using less paper?” Beaudoin said, noting that during the pandemic, the district has increased its use of an electronic learning management system called CANVAS. Superintendent Kurt Browning said the district has spent more than $10 million on CANVAS, so he’s a big proponent of using that system. In conversations, he said, he has asked: “Why should we not, and I use the word, mandate, CANVAS in our schools.And, I still have some pushback. Right, wrong or indifferent. But with a district our size — we’re talking about ninth, 10th largest district in the state — we consume a great deal of paper.” Browning said he wouldn’t favor going to a paperless system, but agrees the district could use less paper. Beaudoin agreed:“I’m not advocating for not using any paper. Especially in math, I think it’s really important that kids be able to write on their tests. I wasn’t saying, ‘I don’t want any paper.’ I was just thinking there are some things that you can post. “I remember in elementary school, my kids coming home with tons of things that could have been in an email, or could have been (on) a half a sheet of paper,” she said. Browning said the district is making progress on that front.“We’re getting there. Every year, we’re getting better.” The district is “very sensitive to the amount of materials,” the superintendent said. As a matter of fact, Browning said he would be meeting with district staff about department budgets following the board meeting to address cuts that will be needed to avoid a deficit in the coming year’s spending plan.

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June 9, 2021

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SUMMER FOOD SERVICE

Keep Cool This Summer at AdventHealth Center Ice By Kelli Carmack With the start of summer just days away, AdventHealth Center Ice is the perfect place to escape the Florida heat. Located in Wesley Chapel, AdventHealth Center Ice offers skaters of all skill levels an opportunity to enjoy ice skating at the largest ice sports facility in the Southeast. One of the skating rink’s most popular programs is Learn to Skate, which offers basic classes leading to recreational or competitive figure skating and/or ice hockey. AdventHealth Center Ice impressively has the largest Learn to Skate program in the state of Florida. In fact, last series of the program had more than 415 participants. In Learn to Skate, there are three main classes: IC’s Snowballs, IC’s Skate School and IC’s Hockey Super Stars 101. IC’s Snowballs teaches youngsters from ages 3 to 8 the basic fundamentals of skating, IC’s Skate School is for kids 9 and older, and IC’s Hockey Super Stars 101 is for ages 5 to 14. “These classes are great exercise and teach kids about working together,” says Jim Charos, vice president of Strategic Initiatives for AdventHealth Center Ice. But the summer Learn to Skate series, which runs from June 1 to August 7, isn’t just for kids. AdventHealth Center Ice also offers adult-only classes every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. And, if you end up finding you have a real interest/talent in skating and/or playing hockey, you can join one of the skating rink’s 80+ adult league teams.

AdventHealth Center Ice also has its own development academy, Global Prospects Academy (GPA). This academy merges traditional educational curriculum with on-and-off ice training of hockey, ice skating, and sports performance/recovery. The educational curriculum is in conjunction with the North Tampa Christian Academy, whose teachers come to the facility to instruct the students. GPA is for ages 8 to 17, and Charos says they are bringing in students nationally and internationally. “We have kids coming in from California, Minnesota and Slovakia,” says Charos. “Parents don’t want to be driving their kids all over town. Having world-class training and schooling all in one place is very convenient for them.” Besides offering fun programs for all ages, AdventHealth Center Ice also prides itself on giving back to the local community. In fact, this summer it will be focusing on its “Summer of Giving Back” campaign, where a portion of money raised from themed public skate nights will go to a different charity each month. Selected charities include The Trevor Project, United Service Organizations and United Way. “We owe a large part of our success to the community, and want to give back,” says Charos. For more information about AdventHealth Center Ice and its skating and hockey programs, please visit AHCenterIce.com or call 813-803-7372.

Pasco County School’s Summer Food Service program was set to begin on June 8 and continue through July 27, at selected school campuses and at bus stop locations around the county. All school location meal packs will contain seven breakfasts and seven lunches, and will be provided curbside on Tuesdays only, between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., to anyone age 18 and younger. East Pasco school sites include: Cypress Creek High, Double Branch Elementary, New River Elementary, Pasco High, Quail Hollow Elementary, R.B. Cox Elementary, R.B. Stewart Middle, San Antonio Elementary, Sand Pine Elementary, Watergrass Elementary, Wesley Chapel Elementary,Wesley Chapel High,West Zephyrhills Elementary, Wiregrass Ranch High and Woodland Elementary. In Central Pasco: Connerton Elementary, Lake Myrtle Elementary, Oakstead Elementary, Odessa Elementary, Sanders Memorial and Sunlake High. Students attending PLACE or Extended School Year programs at the schools will receive their meals on campus and are not eligible to participate in curbside meal pickup. School bus stops will distribute meal packs on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For bus stop locations and menus, and to participate in the meal pickups, visit tinyurl.com/3mp6x4dh. For questions, email FNS@pasco.k12.fl.us.

ESSAY CONTEST DRAWS STUDENTS

The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club sponsored an essay contest for Lutz Elementary School second-graders, on the topic of “Would you rather play indoors or outdoors?” Fifty-nine students submitted entries, and retired elementary school teacher and club member Pat Wagner and her granddaughter judged the submissions. The winner of the contest was presented with a blue scooter, donated by club education chair and member Faith Sincich.

SONIC DONATES TO TEACHERS

(813) 803-7372 www.AHCenterIce.com 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd Wesley Chapel FL 33544

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To honor the creative efforts that teachers have made to maneuver the ever-shifting learning environments and keep students engaged this past year, SONIC Drive-In donated $1.5 million to teacher requests on the national education nonprofit site, DonorsChoose.com, on Teacher Appreciation Day in May, according to a news release. The brand matched 50% of each donation made to all teacher requests on DonorsChoose. In Odessa, one teacher from Walker Middle School received a combined donation of $140 for a Salty and Sweet Rewards project and a Fidget Fun project. In New Port Richey, two teachers received a combined donation of $773 — Calusa Elementary School for a Classroom Resources project and Longleaf Elementary for a Calm Corner Connections project.

UNLIMITED BUS RIDES

Students can ride Pasco County Public Transportation (PCPT) Department buses on regular routes all summer for just $20. The special student rate is effective now through Aug. 31. The Summer Haul Pass can be purchased at these locations: • Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

COURTESY OF JEAN NATHE

Senior receives scholarship

The Republican Party of Pasco scholarship committee selected Pasco High School senior Brian Schildt as a scholarship recipient. Schildt’s application was evaluated by the committee and received a high score. Points were given for GPA, community volunteer hours, school clubs, awards, sports and activities, political involvement and an essay. Other student scholarship recipients included one student each from Wiregrass Ranch High and Land O’ Lakes High, and two students from J.W. Mitchell High. From left: Jean Nathe, Republican Party of Pasco scholarship committee; Brian Schildt; Rep. Randy Maggard, District 38; and Debbie Murray, Republican Party of Pasco scholarship committee.

Office, West and East Pasco Government Centers • Pasco-Hernando State College bookstores in Dade City, New Port Richey and Wesley Chapel • PCPT Administrative Office, 8620 Galen Wilson Blvd., Port Richey • All Pasco County Libraries For information about the pass, bus routes and schedules, visit RidePCPT.com.

SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE

DAVRON, a local executive search and outplacement firm in Land O’ Lakes, will host a school supply drive through June 28, to benefit Christian Social Services (CSS) of Land O’ Lakes. CSS provides food, clothing, supportive services and Christian hospitality to families and individuals in central Pasco and northern Hillsborough counties. For each donation, a raffle ticket will be given to be entered into a live drawing for a chance to win prizes from local businesses, such as restaurant gift cards, trampoline park admission tickets, and more. DAVRON also will host a company fishing tournament for staff, and for every fish caught, DAVRON will donate $10 to CSS. Donations of school supplies, backpacks and lunch boxes can be dropped off at the DAVRON office, 6753 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

• Roland Anthony Chacon, of Lutz, was named to the honor roll of the academic dean at Mars Hill University, North Carolina. • Amanda Clifford, of Lutz, earned a Master of Arts from The University of Alabama,Tuscaloosa. • Moriah Davis, of Lutz, received a Bachelor of Science in Commerce & Business Administration from The University of Alabama,Tuscaloosa. • Kayla Mains, of Lutz, earned a Bachelor of Science in mathematics education at Union University, Jackson,Tennessee. • John Martinez, of Wesley Chapel, was named to the spring dean’s list at Union University, Jackson,Tennessee. • Rylind Robinson, of Wesley Chapel, was recognized to the spring dean’s list at Shorter University, Rome, Georgia. Robinson is majoring in interdisciplinary studies.

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Juanita has been reading The Lutz News since the early 1970s, when she waas a teacher at Sander’s Memorial Elementary Schhool in Land O’ Lakes. “When I was working, the artticles in the paper were always topics for discussions. Someone would always comment ""Did you see the story in The Lutz News?" Therre were numerous times I had to drive around cheecking diffferent stores for the paper. If you didnn't get to the blue distribution boxes early, the neewspapers would be gone,” says Juanita. Juanita loved our paper so muuch that she would even contribute to it here annd there. As team mother for soccer and basebaall, she used to write short summaries about the gaames and the players for the paper. “I can remember some of the stories that were in the paper because I would cut them out and put them in a scrapbook. One oof my favorite stories was about my team memberrs and I placing a time capsule in the newly connstructed pod classrooms at Sander's Memorial E Elementary

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June 9, 2021

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School in the early 1980s, and then having it retrieved from the wall when portions of Sander's was being torn down to become the new school. Our team reunited after twenty years to open the capsule at the last 'old school' open house,” says Juanita. After 34 years of teaching, Juanita retired in 2005. Upon retirement, Juanita and her husband have been enjoying traveling around the U.S. They have whitewater rafted in North Carolina/Tennessee, ziplined in Las Ve Vegas, and even took a two-week motorcycle tour of the Alps with a group of their friends. “W We are still working on our bucket list, and can't wait to get back to normal after covid,” says Juanita. Since moving to San Antonio from Land O' Lakes, Juanita is pleased that they have a Laker paper box in their community. “I still continue to read the newspaper every week for the same feature stories,” says Juanita, “I have been a faithful reader for over 40 years!”

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PARK, from page 1A schools, Hercules Park borders a busy Wawa gas station and Culver’s fast food restaurant, which could prompt those patrons to drop by the park to have a relaxing meal. The park also is accessible to surrounding neighborhood developments through Henry Drive. Should the BMX concept follow through, it would create an amenity otherwise not readily available to the East Pasco community. (Local BMX enthusiasts have previously tried accessing the Zephyrhills Skatepark at Krusen Field for those purposes.) The closest public BMX pump tracks in the surrounding Tampa Bay area include Tampa BMX in Lutz and Oldsmar BMX.

City leaders for years have been calling for an action plan for vacant park land that once had a buzzing aquatic center and swimming pool. Ownership of the land was transferred to the city from the Pasco County School Board in June 2018. The park land is a legacy from about 80 acres once owned by the Hercules Powder Co. The company, which converted pine stumps into resin and turpentine, had been the city’s largest employer at one point. During a city council meeting last month, City Manager Billy Poe deemed the upcoming Hercules Park workshop “important” to provide additional information, plans and ideas to the public and other interested parties.

COURTESY OF CITY OF ZEPHYRHILLS

Gov. Ron DeSantis makes the record-setting $101.5 billion state budget official, during a June 2 invite-only press conference at Zephyrhills City Hall.

DESANTIS, from page 1A He took input from Simpson and others for an ideal spot in Pasco — which figured to be Zephyrhills’ multimillion dollar statuesque municipal building built in 2018. The trip from Tallahassee also coincided with particularly strong results for Zephyrhills and the greater East Pasco area, which combined to receive over $40 million in appropriations alone, including: • $25 million for new facilities at PascoHernando State College’s Dade City Campus • $6.5 million for water and wastewater improvements on Handcart Road • $4.6 million for improvements to the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellness Center • $3 million for improvements to the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport • $25 million for a new Florida National Guard armory somewhere in Zephyrhills Altogether, DeSantis stated the county and region “did very well” in the latest budget, and therefore “should feel very proud.” The governor observed Florida’s largest budget in history overall was made possible because the state reopened more rapidly compared to others across the United States, resulting in unexpected economic and revenue boosts amid the coronavirus crisis.

GOVERNOR LAUDS REOPENING STATE

“We made a decision,” DeSantis said,“as other states kept locking their citizens down, we lift people up in Florida.” Aside from the $101.5 billion, the 20212022 budget leaves another $9.5 billion in reserves, for hurricane relief and other unforeseen circumstances. It also implements a program designed to cut taxes by $169 million and includes the first seven-day freedom week sales tax holiday, a 10-day back-to-school sales tax holiday and a 10-day disaster preparedness sales tax holiday. Meanwhile, DeSantis’ vetoes totaled $1.5 billion from this session. He labeled the cuts as mainly “back of the bill” items related to the state’s general and trust funds. Relatedly, the governor pointed out Florida’s budget is less than half of New York State’s $212 billion mark, despite having “millions of fewer people than we do.” He added:“We’re very prudent with how we spend our money.” Throughout the 30-minute briefing, DeSantis hyped up the budget’s commitment to issues regarding education, environmental protection, and mental health. Said DeSantis,“I think, all thing’s considered, you look at a lot of the major issues, and I think the legislature did a really good job to address all of the key issues, so I thank them for that.” On the education front, there’s roughly $23 billion for the kindergarten through 12th grade system, plus $2 billion for early childhood education. The budget also includes $1,000 bonuses for teachers and principals in the state’s public and charter schools “because they had to work extra hard,” during the pandemic, DeSantis said. About $2.5 billion is set to address men-

SUBDIVISION, from page 1A

tal health and substance abuse across all associated agencies. DeSantis specifically cited $137.6 million for community-based services for adults and children with behavioral health needs; $120 million for school-related mental health initiatives; and, $5.5 million for youth mental health awareness and assistance. Noteworthy environmental-related response includes a $500 million stormwater infrastructure grant program — with another $100 million in recurring funds — where Florida cities and communities can apply as needed.There’s also $155 million for beach renourishment,“which is important when you have 1,300 miles of coastline,” DeSantis said. Another notable budget item: $1,000 bonuses for roughly 175,000 first responders throughout Florida, including police, fire and other emergency medical personnel. DeSantis underscored the challenges of such jobs throughout the pandemic, as reasoning for creating the bonus pool. “We understood when COVID hit, there’s folks in white-collar jobs that could work from home, or remote, but the people in uniform have to show up every day. “They can’t keep the streets safe on Zoom, you can’t put out a fire on Zoom, you’ve just gotta be there, and they were there from the very beginning, day in and day out,” he said. The governor overall was bullish on the Sunshine State during his in-town visit, emphasizing the increasing number people who’ve relocated and vacationed here — be it related to climate and weather, property values, or fewer COVID-19 restrictions. “We really served as kind of a respite for other citizens of our country in states that were chafing under these lockdowns,” he said. “I can tell you, I think there’s a lot of people in the last year, year-and-a-half, that have said,‘Thank God I live in Florida.’” Meantime, the Florida Senate Democratic Caucus released a joint statement on the day of the governor’s budget signing: “Thanks to President Joe Biden and Democrats in Congress passing the ‘American Rescue Plan,’ the governor can tout a state budget that helps Florida recover from the pandemic, allocating billions for the environment, public schools, and community health care. A big chunk of the $10 billion from the federal stimulus act added to a bounty of transportation and economic development projects all over the state.The money even allowed the governor to dole out $1,000 bonuses to law enforcement, firefighters, and other frontline emergency workers,” the statement reads. “Unfortunately, as he took his victory lap to hand out the bonuses, and brag about the many programs rescued as a result of the federal help, the governor never once directed thanks to those who made this possible. It was a crass example of freeloading off the hard work of others he doesn’t want to acknowledge because he doesn’t agree with their politics. Shame on the governor.When the president and congressional Democrats stepped up to the plate, there were no political litmus tests.There was only the question of how to help.And how to do so quickly.”

Tunnels to Towers is doing for our servicemen and women and our first responders, a very admirable endeavor. “My main issue is compatibility,” Robinson said.“We would have a bunch of homes butting right up to half-acre lots and I really don’t feel that is compatible at all.” Planning Commissioner Jaime Girardi also expressed concerns about compatibility. David Goldstein, chief assistant county attorney, told planning board members that the request seeks an R-4 zoning district, a Euclidean zoning that allows up to four houses per acre.The county cannot attach conditions to Euclidean zoning requests, Goldstein said. Instead, the county can ask the applicant to voluntarily add deed restrictions. The planning board asked the foundation to place larger lots on land next to the adjacent Panther Run lots. It also asked for one-story homes to be built there, to address privacy concerns. Planning commissioners also wanted to guarantee that the land would be used by the foundation’s program beneficiaries. At the May 20 meeting,Tarapani said the foundation has agreed to deed restrictions that call for fewer lots and larger lots, with one-story homes along the edge of the neighborhood adjacent to Panther Run. However, she said her client would not agree to ownership restrictions. Without that restriction, there is no guarantee that the foundation won’t sell the land to another developer, Goldstein said. Panther Run neighbors reiterated their objections. Shelby Carrero, of 6448 Paw Place, told the planning board: “After reviewing the deed restriction, I am disheartened to say the least, that our valid concerns we have expressed several times have not been taken into consideration by the applicant.

“The fact the applicant has ignored its future Pasco County neighbors, as well as the Pasco County Planning Commission, should speak volumes as to what their plan was this entire time. “They have refused to put in their deed restriction that they will not sell the land to a developer, or that they will not sell the homes to people that are not military veterans, first responders, or their families. “Therefore, the applicant’s narrative doesn’t hold true.” She added:“It was an insult to see their updated site plan.The previous plan had 22 homes lining Panther Run.The updated plan has 19.” Finally, she said, “We cannot treat them any different than a big developer because we now know that this is a possibility. Sabrina Fernandez, 22402 Panther Run Court, asked commissioners to deny the request. “The truth is that this applicant has ignored the request from this board, and I do appreciate you taking our thoughts into consideration a couple of weeks ago.This is very emotional for us because it’s going to affect our lives greatly.” Other opponents said they don’t want two-story homes on smaller lots lining up behind their large lot.They also cited concerns about a loss of privacy. Tarapani challenged the assertion that the proposed rezoning is incompatible. “Single family, next to single family, is by its very nature, compatible,” she said. Plus, she noted, as part of its deed restriction the foundation has agreed to erect a 6-foot buffer wall between the new subdivision and its Panther Run neighbors, even though the county’s code doesn’t require it. County planners recommend approval of the request, but the planning board voted to recommend denial, with Planning Commissioner Chris Williams dissenting. The issue now goes to the Pasco County Commission, which has final jurisdiction on land use and zoning issues.

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June 9, 2021

Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source

NBA hopefuls showcase hoops skills in Wesley Chapel By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

asco County and the greater Tampa Bay region isn’t really known for its basketball prowess, but that reputation, or lack thereof, may soon change. Pursuing dreams of playing professional basketball, a large group of athletes recently dropped by Wesley Chapel, of all places. More than 40 National Basketball Association (NBA) draft-eligible hopefuls descended upon the area to showcase their athleticism and hoops skills in the inaugural Tampa Bay Pro Combine (TBPC), held June 3 through June 5, at the AdventHealth Sports Arena at Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County. The elite-level hoopers — many from recognizable high and mid-major NCAA Division I programs — dribbled, dunked, jumped, shot and passed their FRED BELLET way into the eyes and impresSix-foot-11-inch Nate Reuvers, from the University of Wisconsin, takes a few practice shots prior to the sions of various NBA and start of the 3-point and slam dunk competitions held during the Tampa Bay Pro Combine. Some 50 playinternational coaches and ers from throughout the country converged in Wesley Chapel for the NBA Draft event. scouts. Several names may be familiar from deep runs in the 2021 NCAA Men’s Basketball March Madness tournament, such as University of Southern California guard Tahj Eaddy, University of Houston forward Justin Gorham, and University of LoyolaChicago center Cameron Krutwig, among others. The local hoops combine was designed to give exposure to players for the 2021 NBA Draft on July 29, or merely get on the radar as undrafted signees or internationally. The three-day event featured drills, games (5-on-5, 2-on-2 and 3-on-3), athletic testing and measurements, as well as a 3-point shootout, dunk contest and more. The player selection committee was led by ESPN television analyst Fran Fraschilla and BasketballNews.com NBA Draft analyst Matt Babcock, who were there to evaluate players during the weekend. The competition came together in a matter of about six weeks, seeking to replicate Six-foot-five-inch Makuach Maluach, a star player from the University of New Mexico, the Virginia-based Portsmouth Invitational stretches as part of a drill on Day One at the Tampa Bay Pro Combine for NBA draft Tournament, a long-running hoops combine prospects. Maluach hails from Sydney, Australia. event canceled a second straight year due to “This actually gives Florida’s Sports Coast the COVID-19 pandemic. Darryl Hepburn, a former Leto High and and Pasco County that professional look that Hillsborough Community College basketball we’ve been looking for, outside of our youth standout who played professionally through- and amateur events.” The expectation is to make the TBPC an out Asia, co-founded the TBPC with Rashaad Ubah, a former sports talent agent who annual affair “for the next 20 or 30 years, if played college hoops at the University of possible,” Ubah said, dependent upon the California-Irvine and Chaminade University of community’s level of support. The long-term vision for the event is to Honolulu. Hepburn, Ubah and others quickly lever- create a hoops hub of sorts at the Wiregrass aged their connections with players, agents, Sports Campus, attracting college, professional coaches and media outlets to make the TBPC and international players to maintain a training residency there for anywhere from a week a go. “There’s a void that was needed (to be to a month — staying at adjacent hotels. “We feel like it’s a place where we can filled),” Ubah told The Laker/Lutz News on bring basketball down here, the same way the event’s first day. “We thought that Tampa Bay was the per- that (Major League Baseball) Spring Training is fect place, just because of the setting. here,” Ubah said. “We want this to be someHonestly, the (basketball) scouts want to thing that’s here every year, and something come down here,” he said. that we can get the community involved with, Naturally, they targeted the brand-new especially in Pasco County that doesn’t necesWiregrass Ranch Sports Campus as a locale. sarily have professional sports, so this is a The 98,000-square-foot facility offers eight chance to get those communities and kids infull-size basketball courts, including a center tegrated to something that’s tangible,” he said. spine separating courts, as well as an athletic Quade Green, who took part in the comtraining center and second-level mezzanine bine, was the leading scorer at the University for bird’s eye viewing. of Washington this past season, at 15.4 points “It was a big team effort of people who per game. had different reaches in different areas,” said The 6-foot guard and former McDonald’s RADD Sports CEO Richard Blalock, whose All-American used the event as a chance to Six-foot-11-inch Jordy Tshimanga, from private company is charged with managing face “good competition,” particularly to show Dayton University, goes up for a basket the sports complex’s day-to-day operations. scouts he can handle long-limbed wings and prior to the start of the slam dunk and 3point shot competition. “We went on board with them to help them big guards. provide the facility and help them any way “I’m trying to play to my strengths,” Green we could.” said,“see what I can get better on.” demonstrate he’s healthy and can still hold his The Pasco Tourist Development Council Like others, it was his first time stepping own against other top-notch bigs. also leaped in as title sponsor, spending into the Wiregrass Sports Campus. He came “I think the biggest thing is just showcas$50,000. Besides providing residents and bas- away impressed with the state-of-the-art digs. ing my skills and being able to be around ketball lovers a tangible event, participating “This is a beautiful gym,” Green said.“Lot of good talent and a good group,” Manley said, players combined have millions of social great players here, great people around you, “and just playing against good competition media followers, garnering nationwide atten- too. They’ve got connections. Life connec- and showing I belong.” tion to Pasco and its tourism arm, Experience tions, too, for the long run.” Manley came away pleased with the entire Florida’s Sports Coast (FSC). Sterling Manley’s hoops career at the showcase. Adam Thomas, FSC’s tourism director, put University of North Carolina was often burHe referenced the “very nice” facility, plus it like this:“It really expands the professional- dened by injuries, including surgery to repair organizers bringing in BAM (Basic Athletic ism of Florida’s sports coast and provides cartilage in his left knee. He missed all of the Measurement) electronic sensor tracking another level of exposure that we couldn’t 2019-2020 season. technology. It provides accurate athletic ascreate without the partnership of the Tampa The 6-foot-11-inch center from sessments on sprint speed, agility and vertical Bay Pro Combine. Pickerington, Ohio, ventured to TBPC to jumps, he said.

Tampa Bay Pro Combine rosters BLACK TEAM • Jahvon Blair (Georgetown University) • Nojel Eastern (Howard University) • Ethan Esposito (Sacramento State University) • Loren Jackson (University of Akron) • Sterling Manley (University of North Carolina) • Obadiah Noel (University of Massachusetts — Lowell) • Nate Reuvers (University of Wisconsin) • Terry Taylor (Austin-Peay University) • Andre Melendez (None) Coach: James Posey GREEN TEAM • Giorgi Bezhanishvili (University of Illinois) • Chudier Bile (Georgetown University) • Ryan Daly (St. Joseph’s University) • Jimma Gatwech (Core4 Atlanta) • Javion Hamlet (University of North Texas) • Jalen Johnson (Mississippi State University) • Micah Potter (University of Wisconsin) • Justin Turner (Bowling Green State University) • Brandon Williams (University of Arizona) Coach: Xavier Silas RED TEAM • Troy Baxter (Morgan State University) • Manny Camper (Siena University) • Tahj Eaddy (University of Southern California) • Jordan Goodwin (Saint Louis University) • Loudon Love (Wright State University) • Ashbjorn Mitgaard (Grand Canyon University) • Chandler Vaudrin (Winthrop University) • Keith Williams (University of Cincinnati) Coach: Bob MacKinnon BLUE TEAM • Mitch Ballock (Creighton University) • Jayvon Graves (University of Buffalo) • Quade Green (University of Washington) • Cameron Krutwig (University of LoyolaChicago) • Makuach Maluach (University of New Mexico) • Joel Ntambwe (Texas Tech University) • Jordy Tshimanga (University of Dayton) • Richard Washington (San Jose State University) Coach: Doc Martin WHITE TEAM • Marcus Burk (Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis) • Hasahn French (Saint Louis University) • DJ Funderburk (North Carolina State University) • Justin Gorham (University of Houston) • Justin Jaworski (Lafayette College) • Damien Jefferson (Creighton University) • Clay Mounce (Furman University) • D’Mitrik Trice (University of Wisconsin) Coach: Jesus Verdejo

“We get good testing, legit numbers and measurements,” he added. Another bonus? “The hotel’s only a walk away,” Manley said,“so everything’s in a good distance.” Former University of Tampa star Mark Borders was among several instructors on hand, guiding players through various skills and drills, such as pick and roll situations. Pinpoint passing is an area he knows a thing or two about, as the Division II program’s all-time career assists leader, tallying 649 total from 2003 to 2006. Borders detailed how the event provides an outlet for overlooked but solid pro prospects, while also giving basketball lovers — particularly college hoops fans rooting for a player from their favorite program — an opportunity to watch high-end talent either in-person or via livestream. “It’s a historical event, giving these kids an opportunity of a lifetime,” he said. For information on the Tampa Bay Pro Combine, visit TampaBayProCombine.com.

Bring on the BOGOs. Nothing beats a great deal. That’s why we have lots of BOGOs on nearly every aisle! publix.com/BOGO 10A

June 9, 2021

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The LAKER / Lutz NEWS INSIDE: Directories, Classifieds, Games & More

KELLI CARMACK

Golden Corral, at 6855 Gall Blvd, advises Zephyrhills Police to skip the doughnuts and enjoy a steak, instead.

JUNE 9, 2021

The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce, at 38550 Fifth Ave., once again threw its support behind all of the community’s businesses.

Sign war pokes fun, prompts camaraderie By Kelli Carmack kcarmack@lakerlutznews.com

hat began as a ‘sign war’ between Zephyrhills Cinema 10 and Golden Corral, in mid-May, has evolved into a battle of wits among 70plus Zephyrhills businesses. It seems like just about everybody is getting into the act. The First Congregational Church of Zephyrhills took on Taco Bell. The church’s sign declares:“Taco Bell sounds good, but ours has a real ring to it.” Golden Corral took on Zephyrhills Police, while K & K Glass poked fun at Pin Chasers. Lavish Lox teased The Gentleman’s Quarter, while others such as Axe of Kindness, Zephyrhills Brewing Company

and Salon on 5th used clever gibes and poetry to convey their messages. Even The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce joined in, taking a universal approach to cheer on the community’s businesses — something it’s grown accustomed to, through the years. Some of the signs are quite tall. Others, very small. And, some, like the ones — at Sen. Danny Burgess’ office — aren’t even signs at all. At the lawmaker’s office, four pieces of paper are taped to the window, conveying this message: “We don’t have a sign, but we wanted to play! “So we want to take the opportunity to say … “As we have been looking at all of the signs, while we drive around “It makes us proud to represent And live in this great little town.”

Axe of Kindness, an entertainment venue that features axe throwing, at 38444 Fifth Ave. in Zephyrhills, is just one of scores of businesses having fun in a citywide ‘sign war.’

First Congregational Church of Zephyrhills, at 7900 Fort King Road, took on Taco Bell’s bell, as part of the ‘sign war’ fun.

Who needs a sign to share a message? Not State Sen. Danny Burgess’ office, at 38507 Fifth Ave. — pieces of paper will do just fine.

Hold their beer! Zephyrhills Brewing Company, at 38530 Fifth Ave., wants to create its sign.

K&K Glass, at 5938 Seventh St., challenges Pin Chasers to join in the community’s ‘sign war.’

Lavish Lox Beauty Lounge, 38440 Fifth Ave., tosses the ‘sign war’ challenge over to The Gentleman’s Quarter, a local barber shop.

IT DOESN’T MAAT ATTER

Forget hot girl summer! Sonny’s BBQ, 6606 Gall Blvd., wants you to have a hot grill summer.

Salon on 5th, at 38521 Fifth Ave, offers a witty response to the sign at Sonny’s BBQ.

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Taz loves reading!

Taz is a sweet, friendly, 2-year-old Siberian Husky mix. He loves to learn new tricks and help his mom in the classroom. Students use a tablet with a doggie camera app that has a two-way communicator to read books to Taz and to teach him about what they are learning. He greets the students in the morning by perking up his ears and giving a friendly ‘yip.’ Taz lives with his mom, Bryndi Colwell, in Zephyrhills.

A SPIRIT ANIMAL

Kathi Boyle submitted this photo of a pileated woodpecker that her friend, Dennis Phillips, took in the San Antonio/Saint Joe area. A pileated woodpecker is known to symbolize loyalty, determination and steady work toward a goal.

PUT YOUR PET IN THE SPOTLIGHT! We are looking for photos and information on your favorite pet. Include in your short story your pet’s name, age, and breed.

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Write a short paragraph about why your pet is special along with a photo and mail to: Pet of the Week, c/o The Laker, P.O. Box 479, Lutz, FL 33548 or email to mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, ATTN: Pet of the Week PLEASE NOTE: OWNERS NAME AND ADDRESS MUST BE INCLUDED FOR YOUR PET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR PUBLICATION.

Email to: mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, SUBJECT: Pet of the Week Mail to: Pet of the Week, c/o The Laker, P.O. Box 479, Lutz, FL 33548

PET PAWS DONATE TO CINDY’S PETS Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s office will feature Cindy’s Pets: Helping Seniors & Their Pets, as its charitable organization for the month of June. Cindy’s Pets works with Pasco County’s Senior Services Program to give food for the pets of seniors in need, especially recipients of the Meals on Wheels program. “The goal of Cindy’s Pets is to provide good nutritional food for animals, thereby enabling the elderly to enjoy their own meals with the knowledge that their pets are also well-fed,” Dr. Missy Nurrenbrock, the program’s founder, said in a news release. “Your donation will go towards purchasing, packing and delivering over 2,000 pounds of pet food each month.This food will feed over 300 pets of seniors who live in Pasco County,” Nurrenbrock said. For information about the charity, contact Nurrenbock at 727-372-9333, or visit

CindysPets.org. For more on the charitable giving programs of the tax collector’s office, contact Greg Giordano, assistant tax collector, at 727-847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com. Donations can be mailed to: Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526-0276.

Importance of Wait Until 8” — Learn what it means for the shelter when kitten season brings a lot of cat and kittens to its doorstep. Dates and times are subject to change, so respond to the Facebook events to stay up to date and receive a reminder when videos go live.

TAIL WAGGIN’ TUESDAYS

RED SNAPPER SEASON

The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center will host Tail Waggin’Tuesdays at 2 p.m., every other Tuesday, through a series of Facebook Live videos. The programs aim to give residents a behind-the-scenes look at how the pet center cares for its pets. Upcoming videos include: • June 15:“What Should You Do When You Find a Stray?” — View the steps the center’s team takes to help the dogs from intake to adoption, and get an explanation of the actions to take when finding a stray. • June 29: “Kitten Season and the

The recreational 2021 Gulf red snapper season opened on June 4 and will run through July 28, with a possible fall reopening. This season will apply to anyone fishing from private recreational vessels in Gulf state and federal waters, as well as charter vessels that do not have a federal reef fish permit and are limited to fishing in state waters only. For those planning to fish for red snapper, even if exempt from fishing license requirements, signup is required as a State Reef Fish Angler (annual renewal re-

quired) at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. For information about recreational snapper regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on “Recreational Regulations” and “Snapper,” under the Reef Fish tab.

SHARE YOUR PET NEWS

If you have pet news about adoptions, walks or other events for pet owners and their pets, you can let us know by sending us an email.We just need the basics: who, what, when, where and why. The information should be submitted two weeks prior to the desired publication date. We also need a contact name and number, in case we have questions. There is no guarantee of publication, but we consider each item we receive. If you’d like to make a submission, send it to news@lakerlutznews.com. Find Pets of the Week and Local Wildlife photos on our website at LakerLutzNews.com.

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Emma is a sweetheart Emma is a friendly girl who enjoys the company of people, though she would prefer to be an only pet. This 2-year-old, 53-pound girl is still learning commands, such as sit, and she could use some work on jumping. Emma is highly treat-motivated and would likely be easy to train. Emma is heartworm positive, but the staff would be happy to discuss treatment options. She is waiting for someone to give her a chance! Make an appointment to meet her today..

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If you would like to adopt Emma or Domino, be sure to visit Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. For more information, email adoptionpartners@pascocountyfl.net.

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The LAKER / Lutz NEWS CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1. Engine additive 4. A hearty laugh 8. Restrain 10. Dried coconut kernels 11. Nefarious 12. Elderly 13. Central part of a church building 15. Throw into confusion 16. Intestinal 17. Qualities of being religious 18. Live up to a standard 21. Seize 22. Go quickly 23. Automated teller machine 24. Bowling necessity 25. One point east of due south 26. Japanese honorific 27. A way to induce sleep 34. Makes cash register rolls 35. A city in S Louisiana 36. Make more cheerful 37. Manicurist 38. Consents 39. Network of nerves 40. Mocking smile 41. It covers the body 42. Partner to pans 43. Perform in a play

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June 9, 2021

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Work gets started on new home for military family The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

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Operation Homefront and Meritage Homes celebrated Military Appreciation Month last month, with a groundbreaking ceremony for a new home being built for a deserving military family. During the ceremony, four military veterans on Meritage Homes’ staff, participated in the festivities. The new, mortgage-free and energy-efficient home that will be presented to a deserving family on Veterans Day. Meritage Homes hosted the event, which included remarks by Steve Harding, regional president for Meritage’s Florida division, according to a news release. The event took place in Bristol Meadows, on Asher Moon Lane, in Zephyrhills. Meritage Homes, the sixth-largest U.S. homebuilder, has again renewed its partner-

ship with Operation Homefront, to place a deserving military family into a brand new, mortgage-free and energy-efficient Meritage home. This is the eighth year Meritage Homes has built and donated a new home to Operation Homefront through the Permanent Homes for Veterans program. Operation Homefront will select the recipient for the new home and keys will be awarded the week of Veterans Day 2021. The Permanent Homes for Veterans program, formerly known as Homes on the Homefront, has placed more than 700 military families in mortgage-free homes and deeded over $90 million in home equity since 2012. For more information about Meritage Homes, visit MeritageHomes.com. For more information about Operation Homefront, visit OperationHomefront.org.

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The play’s the thing — and it’s in their backyard By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

As the old saying goes, “Necessity is the Mother of Invention.” So when COVID-19 put the brakes on indoor performances, aspiring actor Rhett Ricardo, of Dade City, had an idea. He formed a “Shakespeare in the Yard” company, and offered performances in the family’s Dade City backyard. He organized performances of “Much Ado About Nothing,” in November and of a “Midsummer Night’s Dream” in January. And, when the Arts in Motion (AIM) Pasco program couldn’t find a suitable venue, Rhett’s parents — Jill and Jason Ricardo — offered up their backyard as the setting for smaller AIM plays — where young actors would have a place to perform and the audience could remain socially distanced. Jill Ricardo is vice president of production for the AIM Pasco program — which gives youths a chance to pursue their interest in theater. Typically,Arts in Motion puts on two large musicals each year. The productions usually involve 50 to 60 performers, and each child that auditions gets a role, Jill Ricardo said. When the organization shifted to smaller productions — to keep things going — she said she was surprised by the level of interest the young actors displayed. “In a musical, you can rely on the big, flashy numbers to get you through,” she said. In the plays staged in the Ricardos’ backyard, the actors had to develop completely different skill sets, she explained. They performed “The Laramie Project,” “Greater Tuna,”“Snow White Rap,”“The Diary of Ann Frank,” and “Lend Me a Tenor.”

FRED BELLET

This 32-foot stage, with changeable scenery, is behind the Missouri Avenue home of Jill and Jason Ricardo in Dade City. It provides a venue where students and some recent graduates have put on plays, to pursue their interests in theater. In this scene, 18-year-old Connor Mirrop, of Dade City, left, a recent graduate of Pasco High, takes on the role of Max, and 16year-old Zachary Trenkle portrays Mr. Saunders, in ‘Lend Me a Tenor.’

“The Laramie Project” is the story of Matthew Shephard, a gay University of Wyoming student who was beaten and left to die. “That was a really powerful show for us,” Ricardo said. They also did “The Diary of Anne Frank,” based on a journal kept by a young Jewish girl who chronicled two years of her family’s life in hiding during German occupation of the Netherlands in World War II. Her diary was published two years after the girl’s death in a concentration camp. Ricardo was moved by the work done by the cast, describing it as “a really, really beauti-

ful show.” The shows “Greater Tuna” and “Lend Me a Tenor,” are comedies, and “Snow White Rap,”

gave the younger children a chance to perform. “Each play we did, there were four performances,” she said. “It was busy around here. “My husband and I were exhausted in the end,” Ricardo said. Artists in Motion is finished for this season, but expects to audition in August for its next show. By then, Ricardo hopes they will be able to find an indoor venue for their performances. However, she’s not opposed to continuing to have some plays in the family’s backyard. She’s a huge believer in giving youths a chance to get involved in the theater. “I think art allows them to express their feelings in a way that’s productive, and they can explore their feelings, and they explore the world, in a safe space,” Ricardo said. The young actors also get a chance to develop teamwork and experience “building something from nothing — the act of creation,” Ricardo added. Arts in Motion is a nonprofit community youth theater and arts education organization. For more information, check the website ArtsinMotionPasco.org.

Help us light a new SP PA ARK in Wesley Chapel! For more information and to join our launch team, visit SparkPasco.com

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Advanced Cancer Treatment Centers has announce that its radiation oncologists, Dr. Peter James Zavitsanos and Dr. Clayton Elliott Alonso, have been granted certification on radiation oncology and now can use the designation of Diplomate, American Board of Radiology. Having completed the appropriate training for “Authorized User Eligibility,” Zavitsanos and Alonso also will receive the AU-eligible designation on their certificates. The doctors’ names and demographic information will now be included in a directory published by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

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AdventHealth Mobile Mammography, formerly Tampa Bay Mobile Mammography, provides a quick, convenient way to get a mammogram, which is key to detecting breast cancer early. A physician’s prescription is required for ages 40 and younger; no prescription is needed for those older than 40. Upcoming mobile unit stops in May include: • June 11, noon to 3 p.m.: Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, near Community Center • June 21, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Meals on Wheels of East Pasco, 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills • July 15, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Palm Tree Acres/Sunnyside MHP, Clubhouse of Palm Tree Acres, 36006 State Road 54, Zephyrhills • July 15, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.: Zephyrhills First Church of the Nazarene, 6151 12th St., Zephyrhills For questions, call 813-601-1925. To schedule an appointment or for other mobile unit stops, visit AdventHealthMobileMammography.com,

AdventHealth Wesley Chapel will host a virtual newborn basics class on June 16 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The online course can prepare families for what to expect from a newborn.Topics will include everything from delivery to keeping the baby safe at home. The cost is $25 and covers the expectant mother, her support person, and a book. A Microsoft Teams link will be sent to participants on the day of the class. To register, visit AdventHealth.com/hospital/adventhealth-wesley-chapel/events. For information, contact Jessica Yarn at 813-929-5176 or Jessica.yarn@adventhealth.com.

MEN’S HEALTH DAY

Premier Community HealthCare will host its fourth annual men’s health day,“Man Up For Better Men’s Health,” on June 21 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., at various health centers. Men ages 18 and older can get free health screenings, community resources, light refreshments and more, at these locations: • Dade City Family Health Center, 14027 Fifth St., Dade City • Zephyrhills Family Health Center, 37920 Medical Arts Court, Zephyrhills • New Port Richey Family Health Center, 2114 Seven Springs Blvd.,Trinity • Brooksville Family Health Center, 300 S. Main St., Brooksville Free services include: A1C Test (blood sugar levels), blood pressure screening, skin cancer screening, cancer prevention resources, BMI (body mass index) testing, COVID-19 testing, and HIV screening. For information, call 352-518-2000, or visit PremierHC.org.

TOBACCO CESSATION

The Gulfcoast North AHEC Tobacco Free Florida Cessation Program will now offer virtual Tools to Quit classes, via Zoom. The class will cover the effects of tobacco use, the benefits of quitting, and will help the participant to develop a plan to quit. Cessation groups cover all forms of tobacco. To register, call 813-929-1000, and Gulfcoast will send log-in details to the class. Preregistration is required.

COURTESY OF ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-NORTH

Robert Sakoff and his painting titled, ‘A Bridge to Recovery.”

Patient gifts painting to hospital St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz prominently displays a painting of a spring nature scene with trees, flowers and a small footbridge over a brook, in a team member common area. There is a small gold plate attached beneath the painting inscribed with these words: “A Bridge to Recovery. To staff on 4 West for saving my life.” The painting was done by COVID survivor Robert Sakoff, as a gift to the unit, according to a news release. Sakoff spent 16 days in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North earlier this year as a COVID patient. “I feel 120%,” said Sakoff, age 74, in the release. Sakoff is originally from New York, but now resides in Tampa’s Northdale section. He described his battle with COVID during his early days in the hospital as being

serious and “on the brink.” As he began to recover and to feel better, Sakoff started the painting. His wife, Mary, brought painting supplies to the hospital entrance and team members would take the supplies to Sakoff’s room. “It was kind of boring being by yourself,” said Sakoff.“It was lonely, you couldn’t have family or visitors, so I started the project of this painting….It took hours in the day and it also helped my recovery because mentally it helped me focus also.” Sakoff said he was pleased with the way the paint-by-numbers painting turned out. “The care that I received there (St. Joseph’s Hospital-North) was amazing.The people were amazing, they’re friendly, they’re efficient. In my gratitude, I finished the painting and wanted them to have it.The painting was a park scene with a bridge, so I titled it ‘A Bridge to Recovery’” he said.

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ROCKER RECLINERS From left: Woman’s club scholarship chair Lucy Albury, Alexis Fernandez, Jadon Ferrance, Alissa Vani, Marian Suliman and woman’s club president Annette Bellingar.

More scholarships address increased need By Mary Rathman

Sunlake High School; Clayton Topdemir, Cypress Creek High; Zachary Maddox, Freedom High; and Kaitlyn Sheppard, Gaither High. The woman’s club scholarship recipients are Alexis Fernandez, Land O’ Lakes High ($1,100); Jadon Ferrance, Steinbrenner High ($1,100); and Alissa Vani, Steinbrenner High ($1,000). The club’s Lynn LaFleur Memorial Scholarship was awarded to Marian Suliman, Steinbrenner High ($750). This group of graduates will soon begin their university studies at various schools, including Florida State University, the University of South Florida, Hillsborough Community College, George Washington University, the University of Florida, Florida A & M, the University of North Florida, and the University of Central Florida.

mrathman@lakerlutznews.com

The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club has announced a total of $23,950 in scholarship awards for 2021. For more than a decade, the club has had the privilege of administering the Lutz Fireman’s Endowment Fund on behalf of the former Lutz Volunteer Fire Department. Each year, two scholarships were awarded to students who are Lutz residents; however, the former Fireman’s Fund directors recommended that during this challenging pandemic year, the woman’s club double the awards, to four $5,000 scholarships, due to the exceptional need in the community. The four recipients of the 2021 Fireman’s Fund awards are Shannon Gordy,

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June 9, 2021

Demand Rises For Home Health Services GULFSIDE HOME HEALTH STEPS UP TO HELP HUNDREDS OF PASCO FAMILIES It’s been two years since Gulfside Hospice added home health to its medical services and updated its name to Gulfside Healthcare Services. And what an amazing two years it has been. The need in Pasco and Pinellas counties for home health has been explosive, especially this past year during COVID, when so many people have been restricted to their homes. “Because of COVID, some of the requirements for home health services have been relaxed, and more people than ever have qualified for help,” said Michael Griffiths, manager of business development for Gulfside Home Health. Griffiths explains that his team’s number one goal is provide patients with in-home skilled nursing and therapies to help them recover as quickly and safely as possible, while keeping them out of the hospital. “There are many advantages of taking care of someone in their home,” said Griffiths. “Patients are more comfortable at home, family is there for support, and no transportation is needed because our health care providers come to them.” Griffiths adds that home care especially helps with patients who easily get confused in unfamiliar places, which is common toward the end of day when people with memory problems suffer from sun-downing effects. “We plan our visits around a client’s schedule. Families choose a time that is best for them,” said Griffiths, who added that most appointments are between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Gulfside’s nursing staff provides wound care, injections, IV infusions, pain management and medication oversight. Other licensed profesWhen to Call Gulfside Home Health • Recent discharge from hospital or rehab center

GULFSIDE HOME HEALTH COMPARED TO NAT AVG 30-Day Re-Hospitalization Rate • Gulfside: 0% • National Average: 12.9% 60-Day Re-Hospitalization Rate • Gulfside: 13% • National Average: 18%

Gulfside Home Health provides in-home skilled nursing and therapies with a goal to keep patients home and out of the hospital.

sionals offer physical, occupational and speech therapies. At Gulfside Home Health, therapists are employees and not contract workers, which means patients typically see the same nurses and therapists throughout their care. “It’s this continuity of care that sets us apart,” said Griffiths. Most patients receive home health services for three to eight weeks, and typically are referred by physicians and assisted living facilities. Referrals also are accepted directly from patients and their families by completing a quick form on Gulfside’s website. “If you complete our online questionnaire, which takes just a few minutes, we get back to you within 24 hours,” Griffiths says. “Our staff is cross-trained to assess whether the need is home health, palliative care or hospice, which means only one appointment is needed to get things started.” Gulfside Home Health began accepting patients in the spring of 2019, and its caseload expanded quickly because of the outstanding reputation of Gulfside Hospice. It has doubled the number of home health patients in the past year, and anticipates seeing its census grow to 200 patients by the end of the year.

Wound Healing Rate • Gulfside: 99.4% • National Average: 93% Average Number of Weekly Visits the Patient Receives • Gulfside: 3 • National Average: 1.5 Average Length of Time on Service • Gulfside: 37 days • National Average: 54 days “Gulfside is the gold standard provider of choice for hospice care in Pasco County, and this high standard absolutely extends to its Home Health division,” said Griffiths. Gulfside has outstanding results for its clients, much better than the national average. Most impressive is it 30-Day ReHospitalization Rate of 0%, compared to almost 13% nationally. An Info Box included with this story give more impressive comparisons. Most costs are covered by Medicare or private insurance. Major insurance companies that Gulfside accepts, in addition to Medicare, are United, Humana and WellCare insurance programs. If cost or coverage is a concern, the Gulfside team also is available to work with patients on coverage options to ensure everyone who needs care, gets it.

• Multiple diagnoses, such as diabetes, cardiac and pulmonary • Changes in medication that require management/education

2061 Collier Parkway • Land O’ Lakes 800-561-4883 • www.Gulfside.org

• Patients who frequently call their doctors Go to Gulfside.org/submit-a-referral A DIVISION OF GULFSIDE HEALTHCARE SERVICES