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Government responds to COVID-19
By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
A $2 trillion relief package — the largest in U.S. history — has been passed in an attempt to stabilize the economy, in the wake of an economic and medical crisis posed by coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). The package includes help for individuals, extended unemployment benefits, loans for small businesses, help for large industries and other types of assistance. The stimulus includes a $1,200 check per person, or $2,400 married jointly, with
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an additional $500 per child, for those earning $75,000 or less, according to reporting by national news outlets. There’s also $350 billion of loans for small businesses. The package also includes increased unemployment payments, and unemployment benefits extended to self-employed workers and contractors, the reports say. U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis issued a statement after the passage of the CARES Act. In part, he noted the relief act will “help keep us safe, protect jobs and prevent financial devastation for millions of Americans.
“We must get people working again, as soon as it is safe to do so,” he said, adding the stimulus checks will provide immediate relief to individual taxpayers who need it most. He also noted “the expanded unemployment benefits will provide support for those who have lost their jobs or seen their hours reduced through no fault of their own.” And,“the bill provides loan programs to help every type and size of business, including: sole proprietors, independent See GOVERNMENT, page 7A
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Food for students in need While wearing an N95 mask for her safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, Linda McCabe, of Dade City, confirms the amount of food bags needed for one of the cars that showed up for the Pasco County school district’s free lunch program, at the Pasco High School site on March 26. McCabe is the school’s registrar and volunteered for this program that is handing out hundreds of free food bags daily. The school district since has expanded the number of food distribution sites and changed its delivery strategy. See story, page 5B.
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Chapel, created youth activity and coloring books and adult coloring pages, as a way of giving back to the community — during these stressful times.They leave them outside for people to pick them up, and post pages to social media so people can print them, to avoid personal contact. At AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, a group of “prayer warriors” arrived by caravan, to pray for the hospital’s care team and community. There were two mobile digital boards with scriptures, and the group honked their horns and flashed their lights before parking to pray, according to a news release from the West Florida Division of AdventHealth. The group’s next planned stop was on March 28, at Regional Medical Center
It was a gorgeous day on March 7, as patrons streamed into the annual Fabulous Flea Market hosted by the GFWC Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, at the Old Lutz School. Crowds were lined up on both sides of the school, on U.S. 41, waiting for the sale to start. Elaine Pittman, affectionately known as “The Plant Lady,” said she sold more plants in a single day than on all but one other day during numerous years she’s sold plants at the market. But, her plans to sell additional plants at the Spring Market, hosted by Citizens for the Old Lutz School, were dashed when the event was canceled because of concerns about the potential spread of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). Like a switch had been flipped, cancellations started happening all over. The Taste of North Tampa Bay,The Land O’ Lakes Music Festival,The Jelly Bean Fling and numerous other events have been called off. In the words of Pat Serio, who sits on the board of directors for the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club: “Everything has completely shut down. “I’m co-editor of the newsletter, and we cancelled our newsletter because frankly we had nothing to report because all of our calendar events for the next month would have to be listed as TBD (to be determined).” Besides erasing opportunities for family fun and giving vendors a chance to make money — the cancellations have ripple effects. Proceeds from Pittman’s plant sales, for instance, help to support Christian Social Services.That organization operates a food pantry within its thrift store, at 5514 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. The GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club and scores of other civic groups rely on fundraising efforts to help others. The woman’s club supports roughly 100 local
See HELP, page 7A
See CHARITIES, page 7A
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Thomas Promise Foundation board member Amanda Burns, of Dade City, left, and foundation driver Peyton Yowell, of Land O’ Lakes, watch as cars begin to pour into the parking lot of Pasco County High School, 36850 State Road 52 in Dade City. The Thomas Promise Foundation and Pasco County Schools were both distributing food, to help children who do not have access to food while schools are closed. Thomas Promise normally provides food to help feed children over the weekend, as part of its Operation Backpack program.
Stepping up to help in the time of COVID-19 By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
B INSIDE, PAGE 1B
Whether it’s sewing protective masks, printing free coloring books, holding prayer services, giving away pizzas or providing pallets of food — people across The Laker/Lutz News are stepping up to help others, in response to the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Linda Mitchell, of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, has organized a group of seamstresses who are using their skills to make protective masks. Mitchell delivers the 100% cotton fabric and ¼-inch elastic needed to make the masks to the volunteer seamstresses, then beeps her horn when she drops off the materials in the volunteer’s driveways. The staff at RP&G Printing, in Wesley
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We started JC Audiology Numbers of confirmed COVID-19 cases, deaths climb 155 years years ago. ag By B.C. Manion
bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The numbers keep climbing. There were a total of 140,904 cases and a total of 2,405 deaths, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. All 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Northern Marianas and the U.S. Virgin Islands have reported cases. “The United States nationally is in the acceleration phase of the pandemic,” the CDC reports. The CDC said the cases include imported cases in travelers, cases among close contacts of a known cases and communityacquired cases where the source of the
infection is unknown. Most U.S. states are reporting some community spread of COVID-19, the CDC adds. Florida had a total of 5,473 cases, including 4,276 residents, as of the most recent data available on the morning of March 30 from the Florida Department of Health, the lead agency addressing the health crisis. The department also reported that 652 had been hospitalized, and 63 had died. Locally there were 253 cases, including 246 residents and seven non-residents in Hillsborough County. Forty have been hospitalized and two have died. In Pasco County, there were 38 cases, including one non-resident. Seven have been hospitalized and two have died.
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As businesses and individuals cope with sudden losses causes by impacts of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), various agencies and organizations are stepping up to provide information about resources that can help. The Pasco Economic Development Council Inc., has compiled a list of useful resources for the business community. There also is useful information on websites maintained by Pasco and Hillsborough counties, and the Pasco and Hillsborough public school systems. The local chambers of commerce also are offering information that may prove useful. Here is a look at some of the resources available, as reported by the Pasco EDC: • The Business Damage Assessment survey assesses the impact of COVID-19 on Florida’s local businesses, including those in Pasco County. The survey, managed by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO), will evaluate businesses affected by COVID-19 and the impacts the virus has had on the local economy, so actions to implement economic relief programs for businesses can begin. • The Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program is available to small business owners in all Florida counties statewide that experienced economic damage from
Helpful websites:
Chamber websites: PascoEDC.com NorthTampaBayChamber.com HillsboroughCounty.org PascoCountyFL.net CDC.gov FloridaHealthCovid19.gov FloridaJobs.org SBA.gov Pasco.k12.fl.us SDHC.K12.fl.us
COVID-19. These short-term, interest-free working capital loans are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a major catastrophe hits and when a business has secured longer-term recovery resources, such as sufficient profits from a revived business, receipt of payments on insurance claims or federal disaster assistance.The SBDC Tampa Bay can assist companies through the process. • The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) provides low-interest, long-term disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters, to repair or replace uninsured/underinsured disaster damaged property. SBA disaster loans offer an affordable way for individuals and businesses to recover from declared disasters.
CORRECTION: Bettie Coupland’s first name was misspelled in a story, published on March 25 in The Laker/Lutz News, regarding the Presidential Preference Primary.
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Working around the threat of COVID-19 By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The spread of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) — and efforts to stay out of harm’s way — have sparked creativity and ingenuity across The Laker/Lutz News region. When plans to celebrate Kynlee Kuberski’s 11th birthday at Universal Studios were canceled because of COVID19, dozens of people came by her Connerton home, to wish her a happy birthday. They came on foot, on bikes, in cars and even in a Pasco County Fire Rescue truck — to help her celebrate at a safe distance — in response to a request by her Kynlee’s mom, Jessi, on her neighborhood Facebook page. Kynlee’s teacher, Macy Kendrick, from Connerton Elementary, was among the wellwishers, some of whom honked their horns as a birthday greeting. Meanwhile, Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano found a way to serve customers — despite closing his offices to in-person lobby services.All five tax collector offices are handling limited transactions through drive-thru.They’re processing automobile, boat and mobile home registration renewals, property tax payments, and handicapped permit applications. The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center also has come up with a way to help adopters who are interested in having a selfisolation sidekick but can’t physically come into the shelter.They’re calling that program Curbside Cuddles. There’s another program for adopters who can’t come to the center that they’re calling Cuddles Shuttles. Find out more about these programs by calling (813) 7445660. On another front, Michele Northrup — former Lutz Guv’na — is using her entrepreneurial skills to help vendors — including her own business — that have watched their scheduled events evaporate. “I’ve been doing markets for years, and helping run markets and shows. I have a group of maybe 200 to 250 vendors that I pull from to do these different shows and markets. “Well, now these vendors have nothing. They have no income,” she said. “What do you do when your markets close?” she asked.“Find new markets,” she responded. Northrup put out the word that she’d like to create vendor boxes and, in essence, bring the Farmer’s Market to people’s doors. The boxes sell for $60 and $100 each, and include such items as fresh produce, honey, artisan soaps, homemade disinfectant spray, sauces, spices and fresh Cuban bread. Each week, the boxes will vary. The first deliveries were made over the weekend. Northrup hoped for at least 22 orders on the first shipment and wound up with 39. Orders are being taken for the next shipment on SaucyQueen.com. Many other businesses and shops also are changing the way they serve customers,
CHRISTINE HOLTZMAN
Eleven-year-old Kynlee Kuberski, of Land O’ Lakes, smiles, as family, friends and neighbors sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to her. No one could get closer because of social distancing, due to the threat of the spread of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19).
B.C. MANION
Hungry Harry’s Bar-B-Que, a community staple, is still serving up its barbecued meals through carryout, on the pit side. Patrons are encouraged to call ahead.
including Hungry Harry’s Bar-B-Que, on U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes. It is also still smokin’ — offering pit carryout, of its full menu. A sign on both sides of the restaurant encourages people to call ahead for faster service. Land O’ Lakes resident Sandy Graves offered two examples of organizations adapting to limitations imposed by COVID19. For one, the Land O’ Lakes Rotary Club held its first virtual meeting using Zoom. She also noted: “Keystone Community Church did a drive-in worship service on Sunday. It was really good.We were honking
COURTESY OF MICHELE NORTHRUP
Michele Northrup and Cynthia Cicala packing boxes to be delivered to customers.
horns, instead of clapping.” Many churches are adjusting to COVID19 by livestreaming their services. The Rev. Adrienne Hymes said Wesley Chapel Episcopal Church is using technology to keep the congregation connected, but also is using old-fashioned one-on-one tele-
The LAKER / Lutz NEWS
LUTZ, ODESSA, LAND O’ LAKES, WESLEY CHAPEL, NEW TAMPA, ZEPHYRHILLS, DADE CITY Serving Pasco since 1981 / Serving Lutz since 1964
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KEVIN WEISS, Staff Writer kweiss@lakerlutznews.com MARY RATHMAN, Editorial Assistant mrathman@lakerlutznews.com CHRISTINE HOLTZMAN, Photographer choltzman@lakerlutznews.com
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LOCATION: 3632 Land O' Lakes Blvd. Suite 102 • Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639 MAIL: P. O. Box 479 • Lutz, FL 33548 PHONE/FAX: ph: 813.909.2800 • fax: 813.909.2802 IT SUPPORT: STEVE MISTRETTA
— Christine Holtzman contributed to this story.
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NOTE TO READERS: Due to the continuing developments regarding coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) —the cancellations of events, and shuttering of schools and businesses — The Laker/Lutz News has compiled a list of additional websites that are offering free online activities, for kids and adults, that covers everything from virtual field trips to promoting a healthy mind. — Compiled by Mary Rathman
BOOKS:
• ZenHabits.net: Daily meditation and breathing exercises
• Gutenberg.org: Choose from free ePub and Kindle eBooks for download or reading online • LibriVox.org: Free audiobooks to listen to on computers, iPods or other mobile devices • PoemHunter.com: Includes poems, poets, quotations and poetry eBooks
MUSIC:
• HowToPlayPiano.ca: Free lessons on learning music theory and piano • JustinGuitar.com: Join for free, for lessons and songs
VIRTUAL TOURS:
DIY (DO IT YOURSELF):
• HowCast.com: Covers dance and entertainment, food and drink, love and relationships, arts and crafts, and more • HowStuffWorks.com: Topics include science, tech, money, adventure, animals and more • Instructables.com: For anyone who likes to make things – electronics, crafts, cooking and more • WikiHow.com: How-to instructions in 19 subjects, including cars, family life, home and garden, animals and pets, sports and fitness, and more
DOCUMENTARIES:
• TopDocumentaryFilms.com: Thousands of documentaries on topics that include biographies, crime, economics, environment, history, mystery, nature, philosophy, society, sports, and more • DocumentaryHeaven.com: Offers archaeology, business, celebrity, countries, evolution, human rights, lifestyle, music, space, spiritual, and more
EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS:
• Chatterpack.net: Online resources for arts and culture, learning, well-being, music, literature, prayer and more • DuoLingo.com: Learn a language, for free
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• EtymOnline.com: Etymology explains the history of what words mean and how they sound, whether 600 or 2,000 years ago, through a dictionary and stories • Free art lessons: bit.ly/2IQtInY (has a link to lesson plans and supply lists) • Hippocampus.org: 7,000 free videos in 13 subject areas, for middle school to college • KhanAcademy.org: Daily schedules for kids ages 2 to 18 and remote learning resources • LizardPoint.com: Geography lessons on countries, states, cities, physical features and more, including interactive map quizzes • Mystery Science: bit.ly/3d0vWiq (free science lessons for kindergarten through fifth grade) • PlanesandBalloons.com: Educational and printable activities (worksheets, seasonal and coloring pages) for young children • Scholastic Learn at Home: bit.ly/2vxRimy (active portal of free daily courses)
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• SeaWorld.org: Educational resources for hands-on learning through classroom activities, videos, animal bytes and info books, and teacher guides • Shark Story Hour at 10 a.m., search Atlantic White Shark Conservancy on Facebook
FOR MIND AND BODY:
• Emotional ABCs: bit.ly/39TYhFf (social-emotional learning resources and programs) • Emotional Health Activities: bit.ly/3a1EfZE (30 activities to download and use, for parents and students) • GoNoodle.com: Movement and mindfulness videos • Mindfulness and relaxation apps for kids with anxiety: bit.ly/3a1DSOK (15 apps for overcoming stress and anxiety) • Mindfulness Resources for Teens: bit.ly/3b6ibNg (techniques to develop skills to be present and aware every day)
• Field Trips: bit.ly/3b4XuS5 (San Diego Zoo;Yellowstone National Park; explore the surface of Mars and the Curiosity Rover; Monterey Bay Aquarium live cams;Virtual Farm Tour: FarmFood 360; panda cam at Zoo Atlanta; animal cams at Houston Zoo; and, Georgia Aquarium) • TheChinaGuide.com/destination/greatwall-of-china: The Great Wall of China • Louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne: Visit the museum’s exhibition rooms and galleries • RocketCenter.com: Visit the U.S. Space and Rocket Museum in Huntsville,Alabama: click on Science Never Stops for STEAM videos exploring museum artifacts, handson science, live astronomy demonstrations • SeeWinter.com: Take a 20-minute virtual field trip with Clearwater Marine Aquarium every Monday,Wednesday and Friday to learn about marine life and explore the local environment.The Aquarium also is offering free homeschool activities, under the Education Station link. • TravelandLeisure.com/travelnews/Carlsbad-caverns-new-mexicovirtual-tour: Go underground from your couch the caverns in New Mexico Don’t Forget: All the What’s Happening online and screen-free suggestions from our March 25 edition are on our website, too: LakerLutzNews.com.
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Slices of life, in the shadow of COVID-19 Here’s a small sampling of how people are coping with the impacts of COVID-19. — Compiled by B.C. Manion and Christine Holtzman
B.C. MANION
Holding on, in a tough time Normally, TJ’s Deli & Ice Cream does steady lunch business between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. “Now, we’ll be happy if we get a customer every two hours,” said Rosa Benitez, who owns the restaurant, along with her husband. “We have lost a lot of business,” Benitez said.“It’s definitely overwhelming. It’s something you didn’t expect,” said the woman, who also works two part-time jobs. “It’s been really life-changing. If you don’t have a second job or a second in-
come, this could definitely put you out of business. It’s very sad,” she said. Normally, the restaurant has four employees. Now, it’s just Benitez and her husband, Michael Holman. They’re worried about how long the pandemic will last and wonder when business will return. Meanwhile, Holman asks:“When are the (government stimulus) checks going to be handed out? When is the relief coming?”
CHRISTINE HOLTZMAN
Despite uncertainties, she trusts the universe
B.C. MANION
Being careful — and enjoying ice cream Ken Graham and Kathy Patrick recently dropped by TJ’s Deli & Ice Cream, at 37752 Meridian Ave., in Dade City to get themselves a treat. Patrick said she’s glad some businesses are closing. But, she added:“A part of me also thinks it’s too hyped up. People are too afraid to go out. You can’t stop living your life. You
can’t just let it defeat you. “There’s some people that are just scared to death to go anywhere.” Graham said concerns about COVID-19 have created a “very weird feeling — unexpected.” The couple is still going out, but is being careful. “We're staying away from people,”
Sixty-nine-year-old Sheila Prater, of Land O’ Lakes, is dealing with many uncertainties. She’s a caregiver for an 88-year-old woman who has Alzheimer’s disease. She said the COVID-19 pandemic is adding to stress she’s already been feeling. The house she’s been renting for years is up for sale and, when it sells, she’ll have to move. Her daughter just lost her job as a server because of the impacts of COVID19, and Prater isn’t sure where they’re
Graham said. “We just had to have a meeting with a lawyer friend. We did it outside, in a patio setting, with distance between us,” he said. “I think our medical community is doing a fantastic job. I think people, in general, are accepting their part. Everywhere we go, we see everyone practicing measures of safety,” Graham added.
going to live because it’s hard to find a place that will allow her three cats and one dog. Prater also is unsure if she’ll be able to buy a house, given her daughter’s unemployment and today’s trying times. Still, she is doing her best to remain positive. “There are no accidents. Everything happens for a reason and everything happens on time. Not always our time, but the right time. Whatever the universe’s will, if it’s meant to be, it will be,” Prater said.
So, when the couple had a chance to get some ice cream, they went for it. They got their ice cream in waffle cones. “Always, a waffle cone,” said Graham, who’s been going to TJ’s for years. Patrick got a Happy Tracks cone. Graham got a Black Cherry. That’s his new favorite.
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As concerns ratchet up regarding the health and economic threats posed by coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), a licensed mental health counselor from Wesley Chapel offers some suggestions to help cope with the additional pressures. “People’s lives go through various ups and downs, and the same is true of our human existence. “The world also goes through up and downs,” said Shabana Churruca, a licensed mental health counselor and certified addictions professional at Wiregrass Counseling. The COVID-19 pandemic will result in difficulties and loss of lives, but Churruca said, “the thing that we have to remember is that we are going to get to the other side of this.” She also offered strategies that may prove useful during this uncertain time. Here are some of her suggestions:
FOCUS ON THE THINGS WE CAN DO
“What’s happening is that we are sort of in this global place of feeling this angst, and this feeling of being completely out of control. That is often time what brings on anxiety.” To counter that, find things you can control. “Sort through the drawers. Clean out the pantry. Do some things that you’ve been putting off doing.”
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Maybe now is the time to start a meditation or prayer practice. Or, perhaps to learn a new language, pick up a new hobby, do some crafts, play games with your family, take online courses, and so on.
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STAY CONNECTED WITH OTHERS
Even during a time of “social distancing,” we can still reach out to the others. “We’re kind of going to have to reinvent the way we do things. “We have to figure out,‘How can I still stay
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connected to people that are important to me?’ Social gatherings may be out, but virtual gatherings aren’t. “We have to maybe think outside the box for ourselves,” she said.
FOCUS ON THE PRESENT MOMENT
“Anxiety and depression will kind of put us in this state where we’re living in the past or living in the future.What we want to do is stay in the right now,” she said. “The best way to do that is just by really paying attention to your senses. “If you open up your senses — what am I seeing? What am I feeling, touching, tasting? When you open up your senses, it allows you to stay in the present moment.”
RAISE YOUR VIBRATION
Negative thinking lowers our vibrations. Positive actions raise them. So, if you’re a negative space, put on some music you enjoy — and don’t just listen, sing. “You’re engaging more of your brain by actually singing,” the mental health expert said. “It really does have the quality of changing how you feel,” she adding, noting that music also can transport us to a different time and place. In a nutshell, do things that make you feel good — whether that’s listening to music, exercising, cooking, painting, gardening or some other pursuit.
TAKE ONE THING AT A TIME
“What’s the most important thing you have to deal with right now?” Do that.Then do the next thing. Just keep working through your list of priorities.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
You may not be able to control whether your job will end or not, but you can eat nutritious foods, go for walks, drink lots of water and do what you can to maintain your health.
ASK FOR HELP
If you need help, ask for it. It’s not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength.
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GOVERNMENT, from page 1A contractors, and nonprofits. If small business owners continue to pay their rent and employees, they can have their loans forgiven.” Also, on March 29, President Donald Trump called for national guidance on social distancing guidelines to be extended through April 30. In part, the guidelines call for individuals to stay at least 6 feet apart from others and that gatherings be limited to 10 or fewer people. Locally, Hillsborough County has adopted a Safer-At-Home Order, to help prevent the further spread of COVID-19. The order applies to all residents within Hillsborough County, including the cities of Plant City,Tampa and Temple Terrace, and became effective at 10 p.m., on March 27. The order means that all residents are directed to stay at home as much as possible, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, there are many exceptions to the Safer-at-Home Order, according to Hillsborough County’s website. Those include: • People seeking medical treatment, transporting people seeking medical treatment, or caregivers assisting another person with medical or caregiving needs • People whose residences are unsafe or have become unsafe, such as for victims of domestic violence • People who are preparing or delivering food and drinks • People commuting to and from their jobs • People walking pets, as long as social distancing guidelines are observed • Parent or guardians transporting children because of a custody-sharing agreement or order The order also defines essential businesses/services, including: • Establishments including grocery stores, farmers’ markets, farm and produce stands, supermarkets, food banks, convenience stores and liquor stores • Gas stations, auto and recreational vehicle supply and repair shops, and auto dealerships • Farming, livestock, and fishing • Businesses that provide food, shelter, social services, and other necessities • Hardware, gardening, and building material stores • Firearms and ammunition supply stores • Media services and journalists In Pasco County, meanwhile, a virtual meeting of the region’s leaders was set for March 31, with invitations issued to the chairs of the Hillsborough and Pinellas county commissions and mayors of the region’s three largest cities. The county also has posted a video on its website, featuring County Commission Chairman Mike Moore, County Administrator Dan Biles and Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco. Moore reminded viewers that “a healthy community begins with you. Personal responsibility and accountability translate into real results.” He encouraged viewers to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and Department of Health’s guidance on social distancing. “Don’t gather in groups of 10 or more, actually, if you don’t have to, don’t gather in
CHARITIES, from page 1A organizations and charitable causes, Serio said. The Spring Market and Fall Market are the fundraisers held each year to support upkeep of the Old Lutz School, said Stephanie Ensor, a member of Citizens for the Old Lutz School Building. Besides raising money, the events help acquaint the community with the local historic landmark where generations of Lutz residents went to school. Thirty-eight vendors had signed for the market. Proceeds from the event were intended to help pay for needed repairs because of termite damage. Doors need to be replaced, Ensor said. “The windows are rotting,” she added. “They are so expensive, we can only replace a couple at a time.” Food pantries are feeling the pinch, too. Robin Granger, of Life Church in Wesley Chapel, operates a food pantry and a weekly community lunch. “The problem is, the stores that we get donations from, they don’t have very much,”
groups at all. “Wash your hands often and, please, if you’re sick, stay home,” Moore said. Biles said the county is encouraging its employees to work from home, if they can. “We’re making decisions based on real data, that applies to our community. “Pasco doesn’t have the high density areas or multi-generational concerns that are driving stay-at-home orders in other communities. “Our goal is to continue to safely provide essential services and to keep our economy moving,” Biles said. Nocco reminded viewers that “we’re all in this together” and urged them to use common sense. “Common sense is stay away from others, keep your social distance. Common sense is that you’re sick, stay inside.” “We’re all in this together and together we will get through this crisis,” he said. In terms of government services, Pasco County has closed these buildings until further notice: The Historic Pasco County Courthouse, 37918 Meridian Ave., Dade City; Guardian Ad Litem Office West and Guardian Ad Litem Office East; Elderly Nutrition East, 13853 15th St., Dade City; Elderly Nutrition Central, 6801 Wisteria Loop, Land O’ Lakes; and, Elderly Nutrition West, 8600 Galen Wilson Blvd., New Port Richey. Pasco County also has closed its libraries and its parks recreation complexes, and community and education centers. All Pasco County beaches are closed. Parks, open spaces and trails are open, but the public is advised to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s social distancing guidance. Parks-sponsored large events and mass gatherings are canceled until further notice, and these facilities in and near The Laker/Lutz News coverage area are closed: Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex; Heritage Park Community Center; Starkey Wilderness Park Education Center; James Irvin Community Center; and, Odessa Community Center. Pasco County Public Transit is providing free ridership until further notice, and limiting the number of riders on a bus to 10 to 15 riders at a time. The county also will be increasing the number of buses on it busiest routes and temporarily suspending services on its leastused routes. All Pasco County Senior Centers are closed, and all senior programs, activities, classes and meetings are canceled until further notice. For more information, call (727) 834-3340 with any questions. Numerous public meetings have been canceled until further notice, including meetings of the Pasco County Commission and the Pasco County Planning Commission. Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley was out of the country and returned home to do a 14-day self-quarantine. He said the county is finding ways for people to work without being in groups, and he noted he’s been on conference calls with county staff. “By doing what we are doing, this will probably all come to an end, sooner,” Oakley said. “You take it one day at a time. “You have to adapt. These are unchartered waters,” Oakley said. Granger said. “Typically, we pick up food from Costco three days a week and we have not gotten hardly anything at all,” she said. Meanwhile, she said,“I know that folks that are under-resourced are really struggling. “We did an emergency box for a single mom a couple of days ago. She worked at one of the local restaurants as a server, but they cut her hours.When they cut her hours, she was trying to get back on food stamps, but that’s a process. Meantime, she doesn’t have enough food for her kids,” Granger said. “We’re a little concerned about having enough food for all of the folks that we serve. “During this whole week, we’ve had emergency boxes of food going out.” Concerns about the economic and health crisis prompted by COVID-19 are stressing people out, Granger said. “There tends to be a lot of folks who are a little bit scared. “I lead the single moms group at the church. Being a single mom and not having income is really, really frightening,” Granger said.
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HELP, from page 1A Bayonet Point. Meanwhile,The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, donated 20,000 pounds of food on March 27, splitting the delivery between Lewis Abraham Lacoochee Boys & Girls Club and Metropolitan Ministries. Pitching in at the Boys and Girls Club were State Rep. Randy Maggard, who represents District 38 in the Florida House of Representatives; Patrick Thornton, stake president for the church; Cassie Coleman, director of Boys & Girls Club; and Kathy Hunt, director of Restored Hope, which received 2,300 pounds of food to help people in East Pasco, according to Melonie Monson, who is involved with the church. Life Church, in Wesley Chapel, has been providing ongoing help and remains committed to doing what it can, said Robin Granger, director of Life Community Center, which is operated by the church. “Our pastors unequivocally said,‘This is the time that we move forward and we press in and we don’t step back,’” said Granger, whose church is providing to-go meals instead of community lunches once a week and operating a drive-thru food pantry on another day. It is willing to do more, she said. “If there are folks who are sick and shutin, I have a team of volunteers and we also have a team of folks from the church who would be willing to deliver boxes of food to them. “If you know people who need someone to help organize donations, we have the team of people and the willing congregation to step in and be the hands and feet of who we say we are, and what we’re supposed to do,” she said. (Those needing help should call (813) 994-0685). The church wants to help, but could use some help, too, Granger said. It needs more food donations because grocery stores have less to give these days, Granger said. Bubba’s 33, a restaurant in Wesley Chapel, also is stepping up. On March 27, it gave away 33 pizzas to the first 33 patrons waiting in line at 3:33 p.m. The goal was to help feed hungry families, according to a news release. The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office is pitching in, too. Deputies and other agency employees are making takeout purchases at businesses across Pasco County, to offer support during these trying times. Donations also are coming from major companies, as well as individuals. Florida Blue, for instance, is providing $100,000 to help the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, YMCA of the Suncoast and YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg.
COURTESY OF LUTZ-LAND O’ LAKES WOMAN’S CLUB
Barbara Booth is one of seven seamstresses who is contributing her sewing skills to help make protective masks to help meet needs during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
The money is being combined with donations by YMCA members to offer all-day youth relief care for essential workers at 21 Y locations across Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Citrus and Hernando counties. The gift is part of $2 million that Florida Blue is using to address urgent health and safety needs in communities across the state. There’s also a group called Together in Peace that wants to reach out to seniors who normally go to community senior centers during the week, but are unable to do so because the centers are closed. “We will be calling them to say hello, have a friendly chat, and offer some social connection during this time of social distancing,” Sharon Hall, a member of the group, said via email. “At this time we are just waiting for response back from Pasco County Senior Services, who we understand will connect us with seniors that have signed up/indicated they would like to be contacted,” Hall said. Also, NAMI Pasco, a mental health care organization that provides programs and support groups, has temporarily ceased its programs. But, it is offering text peer support services to those with mental health conditions, from noon to 6 p.m., each day it is closed, with the promise of responding within one hour. To use the service, text (863) 223-6799,and provide your first name. Anyone with a mental health emergency should call 911.
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Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source
COURTESY OF LAND O’ LAKES HIGH ATHLETICS
Dozens of members of the Land O’ Lakes High School community celebrate Dave Puhalski’s retirement as head coach of the Gators varsity boys basketball team.
Land O’ Lakes hoops coach retires after 31 years By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
L
and O’ Lakes High School varsity boys basketball coach Dave Puhalski is ready for a timeout. After 31 years roaming the Gators sidelines, barking orders, drawing up plays, and molding boys into young men, the longtime coach announced his retirement following the 2019-2020 season. Puhalski’s swan song was a memorable one — sending off eight seniors to the tune of a 21-6 record, a 5A-7 district title and an appearance in the 5A regional semifinals. Puhalski, 57, exits as one of the longesttenured and among the most-decorated coaches in Pasco County sports history. He compiled a 479-349 career mark since taking over the Gators program in 1988. In total, he spent more than 35 years coaching hoops. Before taking over at Land O’ Lakes, Puhalski was an assistant at state champion Ocala Vanguard for three seasons and an assistant at University of Tampa for a year. Any basketball coach knows what all that entails: Countless hours tied up into practices and games. Long nights busing around the state. Sitting on steel bleachers for junior varsity games. Too many family gatherings and vacations missed. He said the timing’s right to take a break from the hardwood. He put it like this: “After 35 years, I’ve never had a Christmas vacation, (or) a Thanksgiving vacation; the month of June is all summer league, kids playing, so really, it’s just time.”
‘ALL ABOUT THE KIDS’
So, what made all of these years coach-
ing worth it? “The kids,” Puhalski said without hesitation. “They’re the ones that keep me young and keep me in the game for so long. You know, every year you almost get a different set.You get to see kids grow and develop,” he said. Having an understanding wife, too, helped him to stay in the game for the better part of three decades. “You’ve gotta have a coach’s wife, and that’s what I have,” Puhalski said of longtime wife Erika.“So, I give her a lot of credit, because she did a lot of the raising of the kids.” Puhalski’s longevity allowed him to coach “kids of kids” and attend many a former players’ weddings. Seeing Gators hoops alums grow up, start families and lead successful lives is “one of my favorite things,” he said. The care for hundreds of teenage hoopers has been seen firsthand by Land O’ Lakes boys basketball assistant/booster club president Steve Thomopalos. His son, Justin, was coached by Puhalski from 2008 to 2012, and the coach helped the player develop into a two-time team MVP. Thomopalos observed:“If a kid needs a pat on the back, he’ll give it, but also if he needs to be disciplined, he’ll give that, too.” The assistant added the head coach’s goto expression goes like this:“All about the kids.” Puhalski’s tough love is something Gators players grew to revere and appreciate. “You can tell he cares,” senior guard and team captain Mekhi Perry said. “Getting yelled at is frustrating — but him doing that, you know his heart’s in the right place.”
Senior guard and fellow captain Chase Farmer added Puhalski “was like a father figure to me.” “As a player, he was there for me,” said Farmer, the school’s all-time dunks leader. “He did a lot of things that some coaches don’t do. He gave me a shoulder to lean on, I could cry in his arms — anything I needed, he was there.”
REVERED FOR DEFENSE, OLD-SCHOOL NATURE
Of course, Puhalski knows a thing or two about hoops. The coach frequently emphasized “rebounding the ball, taking care of the ball and defending the ball.” He’s particularly regarded for his defense-first mentality — a philosophy that centered heavily on the man-to-man variety, with little regard for zone defenses. “We play man to man,” Puhalski said pointedly. “In 31 years, we’ve probably played a minute worth of zone.” And, if players weren’t giving at least equal effort defensively as on offense, Puhalski wasn’t afraid to make an example. “You know, we’ve had really good players that have been pulled at night because they never play defense,” Puhalski said bluntly. Farmer amicably described Puhalski’s coaching style as “old school, but sometimes he might flare it up.” Farmer added:“He loves defense, (but) he loves steals, highlights and dunks, all that.” Perry, the program’s all-time leading scorer with 1,616 points, added Puhalski “made a huge impact” on the more nuanced aspects of his game. “I already came into school like knowing what I was doing, but just the tidbits
and details expanded my game even more, and every year I learned more,” the Gators standout said. It wasn’t just players who’ve learned from Puhalski. Assistant coaches, too, picked up what it takes to run a quality, winning program. “Everybody learns from coach,” Thomopalos said.“I’ve never seen, up close and personal, a game managed better…especially at the end, when it’s coming down to the wire and it’s close.” The assistant added:“He is a real basketball man, through and through.” Fellow assistant Connor Jordan has worked with Puhalski around a dozen seasons. From Puhalski, Jordan learned Xs and Os are just a small part of leading a successful high school program. “It’s really about discipline and making sure everything’s organized, expectations and keeping kids held accountable and things like that,” Jordan said.“All that stuff that coaches talk about, (Puhalski) actually follows through on.” Whoever takes over the Gators program indeed has a tall task in replacing Puhalski. That very well could be Jordan, who many in the program — including Puhalski — hope lands the head post. “Gigantic shoes to fill,” Jordan of the possibility. Meantime, Puhalski is considering teaching physical education for another year at Land O’ Lakes. He also said he wants to continue helping with the program and acclimate whoever next becomes head coach. “I want to try to keep this going at the level we have it at now,” Puhalski said.“I’m not going to have a whole hand in it, but I’ll be there in whatever (the new coach) needs me to do.”
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THIS OUT
COURTESY OF SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
Zephyrhills High product Jeremy Oppenheimer was named NAIA Division II men’s basketball All-American honorable mention, as a member of the Southeastern University hoops team.
LOCAL WRESTLERS STAND OUT AT STATES
Several area wrestlers put together topnotch performances at the 2020 Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Wrestling State Championships earlier this month at Silver Spurs Arena in Kissimmee, including first-place titles from Carrollwood Day’s Jonathan Conrad (160-pound) and Zephyrhills Christian’s Malik Jones (285pound). Here is a closer look at top results from local teams and placed individual wrestlers:
CLASS 3A Steinbrenner — 23rd place (19 points) 152-pound Truman Noble, Steinbrenner, senior (sixth place) Note: Noble (51-5) fell to Fleming Island’s Tanner Hill (58-11) in the fifth place finals match by a 5-3 decision. CLASS 2A Sunlake — 34th place (9 points) Freedom — Tie-39th place (7 points) Gaither — Tie-51st place (3 points) Pasco — Tie-51st place (3 points)
April 1, 2020
Solid hauls
COURTESY OF JOHN MEDVID
Bob Rick and Joe Marchese (not pictured) won the South Pasco Bassmasters (SPBM) March tournament on Crooked Lake, hauling in five bass for a total weight of 15.38 pounds. The haul included an 8.93-pound bass that also won the tournament’s Big Bass Award. The duo caught their fish in two feet to three feet of water, using assorted plastic worms, frog, tubes and spinner baits. For more information, visit SouthPascoBassmasters.com.
a 7-2 decision. Class 1A Carrollwood Day — Tie-15th place (31 points) Zephyrhills Christian — 17th place (28 points)
138-pound Ryan Bennett, Freedom, junior (sixth place) Note: Bennett (47-11) fell to Jesuit’s Alfonso Vargas (47-17) in the fifth place finals match by
8A
ZEPHYRHILLS HOOPS PRODUCT EARNS ALL-AMERICAN HONORS
160-pound Jonathan Conrad, Carrollwood Day, sophomore (first place)
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Note: Conrad (47-4) defeated Hernando’s Josh Pritz (34-7) by a 7-0 decision. 285-pound Malik Jones, Zephyrhills Christian, senior (first place) Note: Jones (34-0) defeated Key West’s Patrick Barnett (32-7) by pinfall in 6 minutes.
Zephyrhills High product/Southeastern University (SEU) men’s basketball senior point guard Jeremy Oppenheimer has been named NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics) Division II men’s basketball All-American honorable mention. The Zephyrhills native averaged 15.9 points, 6.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals per game this season, all single-season career-highs. He becomes the fourth player in SEU program history to earn placement on an NAIA All-American team. Additionally this season, Oppenheimer was named to The Sun Conference (TSC) All-Tournament team, first-team All-Sun Conference, TSC Champion of Character, and placed on the Academic All-Sun Conference team. The 2019-20 SEU men’s basketball team finished as TSC regular season and tournament champions with a 23-8 overall record. Prior to his SEU career, Oppenheimer was best known for leading Zephyrhills to the 2016 5A state semifinals his senior year, and leading the team in scoring his junior and senior seasons.
The LAKER / Lutz NEWS INSIDE: Directories, Classifieds, Games & More
CHRISTINE HOLTZMAN
SPCA Suncoast board member Bessie Tomlin gives a hug to ‘Wafer,’ the chow mix that she brought to the Unity North Tampa’s Pet Adoption Fair last month. Wafer was one of the animals available for adoption at the event.
B
APRIL 1, 2020
The Rev. Virginia Walsh, of Unity North Tampa, blesses Scrappy, a partially blind Corgi and French bulldog that was rescued 17-months ago by Ann Ottaviano, of Carrollwood. Ottaviano, who attended the fair with her adult daughter, Laura, said that the dog was recovering from severe burns to his back when she adopted him. At the pet fair, she adopted a black mouth cur named Maggie May, to be a companion for the dog.
Blessings and forever homes By Christine Holtzman choltzman@lakerlutznews.com
F
rom its tranquil, wooded location — and before the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID19) pandemic, one Lutz church hosted an event that was for the dogs — and, the cats. The Unity North Tampa church, 19520 Holly Lane, had its first annual Pet Adoption Fair. The Rev. Virginia Walsh scampered around the church hall, as the event began, talking about why the church wanted to host an adoption fair dedicated to the animals. The church moved to its current location, from Tampa, in June 2018. As they work the bake sale during the pet adoption Despite being set back slightly fair, Bobbie LeRoy, of San Antonio, left, converses from the hustle and bustle of with Donna Stevens, of Land O’ Lakes, inside the North Dale Mabry Highway, the Maggie May, a 3-year-old black mouth cur, hangs out of the Barking Out Loud Rescue van Unity North Tampa church. Several items were availproperty is quiet, and serene — window, while she waits for the organization’s founder, Claudia Beaver, to set up the kennels. Maggie May, along with nine other dogs, traveled with the group from Highlands able for purchase, including brownies, red velvet cupfeaturing tall pines and grand County, to be part of the Unity North Tampa’s Pet Adoption Fair. Maggie May found her forcakes, snickerdoodle cookies, muffins, and bottled oaks. water. Proceeds from the sale benefited the church. In the past, the church’s pet ever home when Ann Ottaviano, of Carrollwood, adopted her during the event. blessings have tended to be popular because people love their pets like trying to bite his way out. family members, the church leader said. Scrappy also endured the unthinkable. This year, her congregation thought that Someone poured scalding hot water it would be a wonderful idea to host an over his back, resulting in severe, visible event on the church’s spacious property, burns. and to invite the community to attend. When Ann saw him for the first time, in And, the idea for the Pet Adoption Fair this poor condition, she really didn’t think was born. of his issues. “I was sitting next to him at Before the reverend rushed outdoors to the kennel, and he looked up to me, and bless a pooch, she declared passionately: that was it. It was my intuition that I need“We are excited to support finding good ed this dog.” She also said,“Dogs don’t need homes for these animals.” to be perfect.” Seven adoption agencies took part in Her vet suggested that she get Scrappy a the inaugural event. They were Pasco companion dog now, before he was comCounty Animal Services, SPCA Suncoast, pletely without sight, to help him and Dachshunds Seeking Forever Home comfort him in blindness. Rescue,Tampa Bay Cat Alliance,Tampa Bay She ended up adopting Maggie May, a 3Humane Society, Barking Out Loud Rescue, year-old black mouth cur, that was one of and A Promised Land Animal Rescue. the 10 dogs arriving to the event with Many brought animals that were ready Claudia Beaver, the founder/director of the to be adopted that day. Barking Out Loud Rescue. Beaver’s agency Sitting at their vendor table, Janalea Hoffman, owner/founder of Rhythmic Medicine, left, A half-dozen vendors set up shop is located in Lorida, in Highlands County. plays a native flute, as her business partner, Marilyn Miller looks on. The women are snowaround the property, offering various food Maggie May was rescued from a Lake birds from Kansas, who live part-time in Sun City Center. They were at the Pet Adoption Fair items, crafts, and pet gear and supplies. Placid ranch. Black mouth curs are dogs selling native flutes and colorful pet T-shirts. Ann Ottaviano, of Carrollwood, and her specifically bred for hunting and herding adult daughter, Laura, came to the Pet cattle. So, when she proved not to be a Adoption Fair to find a companion for Ann’s good farmworker, she was placed in a ken- this pup will make a wonderful addition to snickerdoodle cookies, muffins, and bottled 8-year-old partially blind Corgi and French nel, where she lived her whole life, before her family. water. bulldog mix, Scrappy. being rescued. Besides adoptions and blessings, the fair There was a free chance drawing, too, She adopted Scrappy 17 months ago Before their blessing, Scrappy and featured a bake sale and vendors. for a gift certificate from Pet Supermarket. from a shelter. He was severely abused, and Maggie May got acquainted with each other The bake sale, held inside the church, ofProceeds from the pet blessing donahad a bad case of heartworm. He was found for the first time.As she watched them sniff fered patrons a selection of goodies, tions and from the bake sale will support in a cage; his front teeth are missing from each other’s face, Ann was confident that including brownies, red velvet cupcakes, the church’s ministry.
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Gunnar is fun and goofy
Gunnar is a bright, happy boy who loves a good day out with his pup friends in playgroup. Gunnar previously lived with a variety of other animals — another dog, a few kitties, and even a ferret. Gunnar would love an active owner who could help him shed a few pounds. If you're looking for a workout buddy who can keep you laughing with his funny antics, Gunnar might be the right guy for you.
Harry is a gentle giant
Harry is dreaming of the day he will have his own yard to play in. He likes to go for walks and play. Harry has a calm demeanor, and likes to sit back and watch what’s going on around him. He also is a lovable pup and likes to give kisses for treats. Harry arrived at the shelter last September as a stray. He is heartworm negative. Harry could be the dog your family has been dreaming about.
A family of rescues Bailey is a 3-year-old terrier hound mix. She was adopted as a puppy from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Bailey lives with two other rescue dogs and one cat. She loves to play with her siblings, eat treats, ride in the car, and go on adventure walks where she can see the sights. Bailey lives with the Enright family — April, Matthew and Haley — in Lutz.
If you would like to adopt these pets, 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.
PET PAWS CURBSIDE CUDDLES
The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center (PRC) has launched a pilot program aptly named Curbside Cuddles, for any adopters interested in a self-isolation sidekick, but are unable to physically come into the shelter. The program allows adopters to find a match at HCFLGov.net/Adopt, and request a pet online, by submitting their full name, contact information, and the ID number of their dream pet to HC FLGov.net/AtYourService, or by calling (813) 272-5900. Then, they can swing by and get a fury curbside delivery. For adopters unable to arrange a Curbside Cuddles pickup, PRC is offering limited pet delivery through its new Cuddle Shuttles program. Deliveries will be offered based on availability and will only be to select areas of Hillsborough County. Those adopting through either of these pilot programs will have to provide the same information as required for in-person adoption, prior to pick up or delivery. Once the adoption has been approved, the staff will work with adopters to schedule the pick up or delivery. Adoptions will be on a first-come, firstserved basis, and the shelter remains open for in-person adoptions. The Pet Resource Center is at 440 N. Falkenburg Road. For information, call (813) 744-5660.
TWO MORE TURTLES RELEASED
The Florida Aquarium’s Animal Response Team, supported by Florida Blue, has report-
ed that two threatened loggerhead sea turtles, Titan and Starbird, were recently released into the Atlantic Ocean at Mary McLeod Bethune Beach Park in the city of New Smyrna Beach. The two turtles had arrived at the aquarium’s Rehabilitation Center in Apollo Beach last December, after suffering from coldstunning and having been stranded on Cape Cod. “After three months of good nutrition and intensive medical care, these big guys had healed up, gained significant weight and were ready to go home,” said Ari Fustukjian, The Florida Aquarium’s senior staff veterinarian, in a news release. To learn more about the aquarium’s sea turtle conservation efforts, visit FLaquarium.org/seaturtles. To stay connected to the programs and animals, while also having fun, the public can virtually adopt a sea turtle and other animals under The Florida Aquarium’s care by visiting FLaquarium.org/adoptananimal.
PET OF THE WEEK FAMILIES RECEIVE A $30 GIFT CARD TO CHUY’S TEX MEX. Send us a picture and information on your favorite pet!
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.
LOCAL WILDLIFE
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.
BIRDS OF A FEATHER, FLOCK TOGETHER
Doris G. Moore snapped this photo of a few birds sharing space by the pond in the Northwood subdivision in Wesley Chapel. From left: a roseate spoonbill, a white ibis and an anhinga.
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Pasco Sheriff’s Office warns of coronavirus scams Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
As coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID19) dominates attention globally, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office warns that cybercriminals are seeking to capitalize on the public’s desire to know more about the outbreak. There are nationwide reports of phishing scams that attempt to steal personal information or to infect devices with malware, and ads that peddle false information or scam products, the sheriff’s office says. In one example, a phishing email used the logo of the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) Health Alert Network and claimed to provide a list of local active infections. Recipients were instructed to click on a link in the email to access the list.Then, recipients were asked to enter their email login credentials, which then were stolen. The sheriff’s office says it isn’t aware of any cases in its jurisdiction, but is encouraging people to report phishing and other cybercrime.
The law enforcement agency also is advising the following: • When seeking information on COVID19, visit known reputable websites like the (CDC) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization (WHO) or the Florida Department of Health. • Be on the lookout for phishing emails, which may appear to come from a trusted source. Remember, you can look at the sender’s details — specifically the part of the email address after the “@” symbol — in the “From” line to see if it looks legitimate. • Be wary of emails or phone calls offering unexpected or unprompted information. Also, do not click on links in emails from unfamiliar sources: they could be embedded with malware. • Although social media companies, such as Facebook, are cracking down on ads spreading coronavirus conspiracies and fake cures, some ads may make it past their review process.
Tax collector suspends lobby service The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
As of March 24, lobby service at all five locations of the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office has been suspended, temporarily, according to a news release. Due to the severity and uncertainty of the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) outbreak, no in-person transactions will be conducted. In lieu of lobby service, the five offices has begun to provide certain transactions through drive-thru services.These transactions are limited to automobile, boat and mobile home registration renewals, property tax payments and disabled parking permit applications. Dealers may drop off work and expect it to be ready within 48 hours. Customers should look for signs indicating the drive-thru area at each office. Drive-thru services will be available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5
p.m., and Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to noon. The countywide tax collector’s call center will continue to operate during the time of the lobby closures, with the same hours as the drive-thru services. For call center assistance, dial (727) 8478032, (813) 235-6076 or (352) 521-4338. Since most driver’s licenses and state-issued identification cards require an in-person transaction, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has issued an executive order that grants a 30-day extension of the due date for renewing those documents, which may currently be set to expire on or before April 15. Any stops or holds that are currently on a driver’s license will not be removed by this executive order. Customers are encouraged to utilize mail and online services, whenever possible. To renew automobile registrations, visit PascoTaxes.com or GoRenew.com.
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Pasco schools add feeding sites for students The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
Pasco County Schools planned to expand its number of student feeding sites from its initial seven locations up to 25 school sites, effective March 31, according to a school district news release. Pasco also will add feeding sites at 16 bus stops throughout the county. There are other significant changes in the way Pasco County Schools is getting food to students.The drive-thru sites and the bus deliveries will take place on Tuesday only, and the food provided will include food for five days for each student, the release adds. A family with two children would receive 10 lunches and 10 breakfasts on Tuesday. The student, or students, must be present to receive food. Here is the list of Pasco sites, in and near The Laker/Lutz News coverage area, where meals will be delivered: School bus deliveries, on Tuesdays only: • 11 a.m.: Wilson Street grass lot, 13800 Wilson St., Dade City • 11 a.m.: Zephyrhills YMCA, 37301 Chapel Hill Loop, Zephyrhills • 11:20 a.m.: Hilltop Landings 37611 Colina Drive, Dade City • 11:25 a.m.: Crystal Springs Community Center, 1655 Partridge Blvd., Zephyrhills
Pasco High School employee Diane Salas, of Dade City, passes out lunch bags to three of Ithzi Diaz’s children on March 26. Diaz, a single mother of four children, said that she is so grateful that the school district is offering this program because it helps while she tries to stretch out her food stamps until the beginning of next month. Pasco High School was one of the district’s sites that was distributing free breakfast and lunch foods to school-aged children, while area schools remained closed due to CHRISTINE HOLTZMAN the COVID-19 pandemic.
• 11:45 a.m.: Trilby United Methodist Church, 37504 Trilby Road, Dade City Drive-thru student food distribution sites Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. • Centennial Middle School, 38505 Centennial Road, Dade City • Chester W. Taylor Elementary School, 3618 Morris Bridge Road, Zephyrhills
• Rodney B. Cox Elementary School, 37615 Martin Luther King Blvd., Dade City • New River Elementary School, 4710 River Glen Blvd.,Wesley Chapel • Pasco High School, 36850 State Road 52, Dade City • Pasco Middle School, 13925 14th St., Dade City
• Quail Hollow Elementary School, 7050 Quail Hollow Blvd.,Wesley Chapel • San Antonio Elementary School, 32416 Darby Road, Dade City • West Zephyrhills Elementary, 37900 14th Ave., Zephyrhills • Zephyrhills High School, 6335 12th St., Zephyrhills
The LAKER / Lutz NEWS CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1. Curved symmetrical structure 5. One’s partner in marriage 11. Male admirer 12. Spend in a period of dormancy 16. Popular Easter meal 17. Doc 18. Bearing a heavy load 19. Gratitude 24. The Mount Rushmore State 25. Driving 26. Girl 27. British thermal unit 28. Makes a mistake 29. A defined length of time 30. Lions do it 31. Large quantities 33. Become less intense 34. Famed peninsula 38. Emerges 39. Rare Hawaiian geese 40. Dance style 43. Drove 44. Measures speed of an engine (abbr.) 45. Yankee hero Bucky 49. Midway between west and northwest 50. Monetary unit of Samoa 51. Makes clothing 53. Spielberg’s alien 54. Agreeable to the taste 56. Injury treatment protocol 58. Cools your house 59. Imaginary line 60. New convert 63. Some do it to their windows 64. Wore away 65. Work units DOWN 1. Remove body tissue 2. Harvester
3. Roadside living quarters 4. Excessive self-confidence 5. Lapp 6. Bicycled 7. Entrance to a passage 8. Western U.S. state 9. Grain towers 10. “Westworld” actress __ Rachel Wood 13. Commercial 14. One who left a will 15. Makes it through 20. Within (prefix) 21. Sea patrol (abbr.) 22. Cigarettes (slang) 23. A doctrine 27. Constrictor snakes 29. Atomic #73 30. Baseball stat 31. Female sibling 32. A soft gray metal (abbr.) 33. Southern constellation 34. Belgian city 35. Go in again 36. In a different, more positive way 37. A place for sleeping 38. Blood type 40. Syrian news agency (abbr.) 41. A salt or ester of acetic acid 42. Millihenry 44. Populous Israeli city __ Aviv 45. Widen 46. Magical potion 47. Acknowledging 48. Private romantic rendezvous 50. Cavalry sword 51. Terabyte 52. Artificial intelligence 54. Bullfighting maneuver 55. Breezed through 57. Santa says it three times 61. __ and behold 62. 36 inches (abbr.)
Classifieds 813-909-2800 • classifieds@lakerlutznews.com
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
We care about the people we serve, and we care about the people we employ. We are a vibrant, innovative place to work, where employees are valued for their talents. THE GOODWILL CYPRESS CREEK STORE IS NOW HIRING THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS: Assistant Sales Manager: responsible for assisting the store manager in the management functions of a retail store. This is a working supervisory position where directing the work, delegating assignments, and physically performing any necessary tasks will all occur routinely. Sales & Sr. Sales Associates: responsible for assisting customers, stocking, displaying and rotating store merchandise, and conducting cash register transactions. Processing & Sr. Processing Associates: responsible for greeting donors, accepting donations, preparing donated and new goods for sale in stores through sorting, cleaning, categorizing, sizing and pricing. Job Requirements: High school/GED or equivalent preferred. Prefer some experience in retail. Subject to criminal history background checks. Subject to alcohol and drug testing. Apply online at www.goodwill-suncoast.org/careers or in person at our Cypress Creek Superstore, 2390 Willow Oak Dr, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 We are an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans and a Drug Free Workplace.
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT Patient focused Medical Assistant needed for a full-time family medicine oppty in Dade City. Please visit the Careers page of our website for details: MyHealthOnsite.com
JOB TO POST? call The
Laker/ Lutz News
813-909-2800
HOMES FOR SALE
New and Used homes available in Arbor Oaks, a 55+ community located in beautiful Zephyrhills. Limited Time 50% lot rent for 1 year with new home purchase Newby Realty 941-479-2849 Equal Housing Opportunity.
HOMES FOR SALE
MEDICAL / DENTAL
CALL ME TODAY!
STOP TAKING PILLS
OFFICE:
813-949-3600 CELL:
813-842-3077 stacythehomegirl@gmail.com
Russell Adams Realty Inc. 2502 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639
Mobile Home and Land 2 bed + add. room w/ masonary foundation, 1.5 bath. Furnished, Cen. AC/Heat, Caport w/ concrete driveway, & outbuilding. In Zephyrhills. $42,000 Call 570-404-5431
LEGAL SERVICES, NON-ATTORNEY
DIVORCE WILLS EVICTIONS STARTING AT $65 1-Signature Divorce Missing Spouse Divorce
LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL? Stacy Robinson
HOMES FOR SALE
* WE COME TO YOU! *
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card fast & easy!
Contact us for a FREE EVALUATION
1-888-847-1997 (Since 1992)
CALL CLASSIFIEDS 813-909-2800 D>JBM>DB>KPTBOP
Call Now! 813-756-0091 or visit cmmdr.com
BUY 3 WEEKS GET 1 FREE 813-909-2800
Tell them you saw them in The Laker/Lutz News! www.LakerLutzNews.com
April 1, 2020
5B
Your Trust u ted Sourrc r e for Coro ona avirus Care e Nothin ng is mor m re important to us than you.. We’re here to care e for you, ease yo our min nd and lift your spiritts. Our medical exxpertise and network of ca are can help you m meet your y health challengess, hurdles and harrrdshipss. <NYM MTUJ <NYM HTZWFLJ <NYM HTS̤IJSHJ Today, tomorrow and in the future, we arre here when you ne eed us the most.
For the latest in nformation, visitt CoronavirusResourceHub.com. ssourceHub com.
W WE E ARE AR A RE R E OPEN! OP O PE EN N! N ! HOURS HO H OU UR RS R S M-F MM -F F 9-6 99 -6 6 SAT S AT A T 99 9-4 -4 4 PH P PHONE/EMAIL HO ON NEE/E E/EM MA AIILL O ORDERS OR RD DEER RS S AV A AVAILABLE: V VA AILLA AB BLLEE:: 3 352-567-6224 35 52 2--5 56 67 7--6 7 62 22 24 4•S SO SONAPPL@TAMPABAY.RR.COM ON NA AP A PP PLL@ @TA TTA AM MPA PA P AB BA AY AY Y..R RR R..C CO OM M FL LOOR R MOD DEL SA ALE! AME LOCA AL FAMIL FA LY Y OWNERS FO OR OVER 60 0 YEARS! 4.3 CU.FT. TO TOP LO OA AD WASHER #WTW5000DW MAP $749 • Presoak Option Water Wa Wash Cycle • Deep Wa • Clean Wa Washer Cycle with Affresh® Wa Washer Cleaner
Simple Opera ation
APPLIANCES
IN-STOC CK
$
39999
LARGE CAP PA ACITY WASHER & ELECTRIC DRYER
EA ACH
RTW4100W RED44QVQ
• 2.5 cu ft washer • 5 dryer cycles
$
499
99 EACH
TTAAKE A HOME TODAAYY OR GET NEXT DAAYY DELIVERY
7.0 CU.FT. TO TOP LO OA AD ELECTRIC DR RYYER #WED5000DW MAP $749 • AccuDry™ Sensor Drying System • Hamper Door • Adjustable End-Of-Cycle Signal
IF IT’’S NOT GREEN, IT’S S NOT REAL! We ver Deliiv
Purchase anny size Big Green Eg g to receive
20 0% OFF your Big B Green Eg g Eg gcessory. USA MADE E
24” ST STA AINLESS STEELL DISHWASHER R
29999
$
READ DYY NOW FOR PICKUP OR DELIVVER RYY! TAKE IT HOME TODA TA ODA AYY!
MA AT TTRESS S
7.4 CU.FT. FRONT LOA AD ELECTRIC DR RYYER #WED5620HW MAP $899 $ • Intuitive Controls • Wrinkle Shield™ Shield Pluus Option with Steam
4.5 CU.FT.. CLOSETT--DEPTH FRONT LO OA AD WASHER #WFW5620HW MAP $899 • Load & Go™ Dispenser • Intuitive Controls • Steam Clean Option
SALE!
7.5 WASHER • Steam • Self Clean • Smart Smart Care
4.5 DR RYEER • Steam • Sensor Dry • Smart Smart Care C
SANITIZE CYYC CLE
SANITIZE CYYC CLE
64999
$
69999
$
EACH
EACH
4.8 CU U.FT. ELECTRIC RANGE • Multiple Element Options • Bake Assist Te Temp Presets Upswept Cooktop • TEMP ASSURE Cooking System
SAAVVE $400 ON THE PPAAIR
SAAVVE $400 ON THE PPAAIR
KITCHEN KITCHE N SUITES
279999
$
4 - PIECE KITCHEN SUITE
99 499 SA AVVE $150 $
219999
$
SAVE
AER6303M MFS
1147
$
ON THE SUITE
4-PIECE CAAST IRON BLACK KITCCHEN SUITE
*See Store for Detailss
We W e come to you ur home and measure
for FREE
• 25 cu.. ft. Sidebyy-Side b Refrigerator with Exterior Ice and Wa W ater and Soft MSS25C4MGK MMV4206HK MER8800HK MDB7959SHK Freese Bin • 30-Inch Wide Electric Range with Tr True Convection • 2.0 Cu.. Ft.. OverThe-Ranggee Microwa wa avve with Interior Cooking Rack • TToop Control Powerful
COUNTER DEPTH
22 Cu. Ft. BottomMount Refriggeerator • Full-Width C Cooll Zone Z Drawer 24 cu.ft. Side-By-Side Refrigerator #WRS315SDHM - MAPP $1,499 • Frameless Glass Shelves • Adjustable Gallon Door Bins • Can Caddy
5.3 cu.ft. Freestanding Electric Range with 5 Elements #WFE320MOES- MAP $749 • Frozen Bake™ TeTechnology • FlexHeat™ Dual Radiant Element • Keep Warm Setting
ENERGY STAR® Certified Dishwasher #WDF330PAHS - MAP $579 • 1-Hour Wash Cycle C • Cycle Memory • Soil Sensor
1.7 cu.ft. Microwave Hood Combination #WMH31017HS - MAP $319 • Microwave Presets • Electronic Touch Controls • Dishwasher-Safe Turntable Plate
JUST 30 MINUTES FROM WESLEY CHAPEL AND LAN ND O’’ LAKES APPLIANCES • BEDDING • CENTRAL CENNTRAL AIR 6B
April 1, 2020
10651 HWY. Y.. 3001 SOUTH • DADE CITY • WWW W.SONNYSAPPLIANCES.NET • 352-567-6224 M M-FF 9 AM – 6 PM P • SAATT 9 AM – 4 PM • CLOSED CLOSSED SUNDAAYYS TO BE WITH FAMIL FA F LYY
www.LakerLutzNews.com
Slide-Out Shelves forr Easy Accesss
119999
$
Please see dealer d for details. Photos are for illustration purrposes only. Financing available.
We accept Visa, MC, Discovery, Wells Fargo