The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Brian Fernandes

United Way of Pasco plans to expand its reach

By

As he assumes the helm of United Way of Pasco County, Chuck Anderson said he plans to build on the organization’s previous successes.

Anderson became president and CEO of the organization on Jan. 14, succeeding Alice Delgardo, who retired.

Chuck Anderson, the new president and CEO for United Way of Pasco County, plans to expand community outreach in the county. (Brian Fernandes)

He recently moved to the area from Fort Myers, and he’s well aware of Pasco County’s growing population and increasing demand for services.

United Way is already known for its collaborative work, but Anderson wants to expand those efforts.

The United Way recently got involved as an intermediary, to address financial shortfalls two agencies were facing because of the recent federal government shutdown.

The lack of federal money put the continued operation of two nonprofit agencies in jeopardy.

“The county (Pasco County) and United Way (of Pasco) worked collaboratively to put together a pool of funds to keep two of those programs running,” Anderson said.

He understands, personally, the impacts that a federal shutdown can have because his daughter is a federal employee and has dealt with the consequences of not being paid.

One way to help people who are struggling is to assist them with filling out their federal tax forms, he said. United Way has a program that can help people secure their tax refund checks, he said.

“It puts many dollars back in the pockets of people who otherwise would be indigent,” Anderson said.

The Connecticut native holds a master’s degree in social work and a master’s degree in business — and said that both have served him well throughout his career.

Previously, he taught at Florida Atlantic University and Florida Gulf Coast University.

He also worked for four years at Catholic Charities, a United Way affiliate, serving as a district director and overseeing the organization’s efforts in Lee, Hendry and Glades counties.

In that position, he helped to advance food pantries, senior services, the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and programs for at-risk youth.

He also is passionate about tackling the problem of human trafficking.

Anderson said he was associated with a program that spanned 10 counties and utilized intensive casework.

“We were able to help people go from [being] unable to care for themselves to becoming independent, self-sufficient and able to function successfully in society,” he said.

Anderson believes that those who have resources need to reach out to those who lack them.

He said his life in public service has been fueled by a belief of the power that comes from engaging with other people.

“I thought the best way to help build positive change in the community was by working in the community,” stated Anderson. “It really is holding out your hand and helping somebody up.”

The United Way leader said he intends to implement this principle in Pasco County.

Published February 13, 2019

Paulie Palooza has a new venue

By

The annual Paulie Palooza will return to liven Downtown Zephyrhills on Feb. 23, but this year, the event has a new venue: Main Street Zephyrhills at 38537 Fifth Ave.

The new location was selected to incorporate downtown businesses into the festival, said Leesa Fryer, event planning specialist at Gulf Hospice and Pasco Palliative Care.

Aside from shopping at vendors, the Paulie Palooza fest in Zephyrhills allows patrons to relax on lawn chairs with refreshments, while listening to musical performances. (Courtesy of Gulfside Hospice and Pasco Palliative Care)

The festival, now in its seventh year, will be from noon to 9 p.m.

Guests can enjoy offerings from a variety of vendors, including food, arts, crafts and jewelry. There will be face-painting for kids, too.

And, the Zephyrhills Brewing Company will be there.

Items will be auctioned off, and there will be prize drawings for items that have been donated by local businesses.

Live musical performances will be given throughout the day.

Admission wristbands are available for a $5 donation. Parking is free and pets are allowed.

Visitors are asked to bring their own lawn chairs, as seating is limited.

All proceeds benefit Gulf Hospice and Pasco Palliative Care.

To register as a vendor, purchase a wristband or for additional information, visit GulfSide.org.

Paulie Palooza
Where: Main Street Zephyrhills, 38537 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
When: Feb. 23 from noon to 9 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: The festival features vendors, prizes and musical performances.
Info: To register as a vendor, purchase wristbands or for additional information, visit GulfSide.org.

Published February 13, 2019

Diverging Diamond aims to ease traffic flow

By

Construction began on Jan. 7 for a project known as the Diverging Diamond, in Wesley Chapel.

The project will redesign the existing diamond-shaped bridge that interchanges Interstate 75 and State Road 56.

“All we’re really doing is reconfiguring the diamond,” explained John McShaffrey, community outreach manager for the Florida Department of Transportation. “You still got the diamond, but how you get to the diamond and where you come off the diamond is going to be different.”

Traffic backs up daily, as commuters make their way home at the end of the day. A project known as the ‘Diverging Diamond’ will help improve traffic flow, thus cutting the amount of time that drivers are on the road. (File)

The project is expected to ease the flow of traffic, save time for drivers and reduce bottlenecks.

At this stage, construction workers are drilling underground and installing drainage pipes to align with road expansion on the state road. All lanes will remain open, as work will be done off-road – with no expected impact to traffic.

There are scheduled lane closures at night along State Road 56 and interstate ramps, to allow paving work to be done.

To avoid conflicting with peak traffic hours, those closures are scheduled from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., and are expected to continue for the next three months.

Barrier walls will be used to block off one lane of traffic at a time, and traffic delays due to those closures are expected to be minimal, McShaffrey said.

There also may be some rare lane closures on I-75 at night, but most will occur on State Road 56.

“The diverging diamond is a popular new method of moving traffic through interchanges around the country,” McShaffrey said, explaining why that option was chosen.

The State Road 56 bridge, which spans I-75, will not be widened, but will be redesigned to accommodate additional lanes.

The redesign includes removing the pedestrian walkways on both ends of the bridge, and placing a single walkway between eastbound and westbound lanes.

Before reaching the bridge, the lanes on State Road 56 will crisscross, putting eastbound traffic on the north end of the bridge and westbound traffic on the south end.

State Department of Transportation figures reveal that westbound traffic is heavier than eastbound. There are 67,500 vehicles heading westbound each day, compared with 51,000 vehicles heading eastbound.

Also, the northbound ramp that leads to State Road 56 from I-75 is more congested that its southbound counterpart.

This is an aerial view of what a Diverging Diamond looks like.

And, vehicles heading south from State Road 56, back onto the I-75 ramp, outnumber motorists who are heading north from State Road 56 onto the interstate.

In response, the transportation department plans to have four through lanes and two left-turning lanes heading westbound, and to have three through lanes and one left-turning lane heading eastbound.

The changes will provide a better flow of traffic for motorists, McShaffrey said.

Also, “we’ll have more continuous green time for the through traffic – that’s the big benefit of it.”

Once vehicles in the left-turning lanes pass the lights and reach the bridge, they can smoothly transition onto the ramps without any competing traffic.

While this will be a new adjustment for travelers, there will be visible pavement markings and overhead signs to clearly guide motorists, assured McShaffrey.

The $33 million project is slated for completion in late 2021.

Learn more about the Diverging Diamond
When: Feb. 26, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Conference Center at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel
Details: To provide information and answer questions about the Diverging Diamond, a project now under construction to change the configuration of the interchange at State Road 56 and Interstate 75.
Cost: The open house is free.
To view an animation of the project and receive updates on the Diverging Diamond, sign up for an alert at FDOTTampaBay.com/project/262/430573-1-52-01.

Published February 06, 2019

Health challenges don’t dim this boy’s optimism

By

Eric Piburn’s cheerful demeanor and active nature are not what one would typically expect from someone who has lived the bulk of his life — in and out of hospitals.

Though he’s a lively 12-year-old who enjoys running, jumping and playing with toys — he was born with two congenital heart defects.

Physicians did not expect him to live beyond infancy.

Eric spent his first three years living at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg,  unable to walk or talk.

Eric Piburn loves to show off his race car track, one of his many toy collections. Despite health complications, the 12-year-old enjoys keeping active and having fun. (Brian Fernandes)

“When we first brought Eric home, my husband and I were terrified,” his mother, Randi Piburn, recalled.

Randi and her husband, Dave, already were caring for Eric’s older sister Alex — who also had congenital heart defects, although Eric’s were more severe.

He lived longer than expected, and his health complications have increased, over time.

His body could not properly break down sugars and starches, and he began to suffer from acute renal failure.

He has breathing difficulties, too, requiring the use of an oxygen mask and tank at all times.

He has survived four open heart surgeries.

His mother prepares his daily medication involving fluid and syringes. They both know the drill.

“This is his norm,” Randi said.

“Wearing oxygen is not an issue for him. Being on breathing treatments is not an issue for him,” she added.

Eric also must wear a backpack that pumps his medication into his chest through a tube, and his nutrition follows a daily regimen, too.

He drinks most of his water in the morning. He eats pureed food in the afternoon and evening.

He samples solid food, on rare occasions, but when he does, the portion is only about half the size of a grain of rice, Randi said.

Still, it’s  a long way from the days of a liquid-only diet passed through a feeding tube into Eric’s intestines.

Years of medical treatment have inspired Eric to desire a career as a cardiologist – like the one who looks after him.

“When I grow up, I want to be just like him so I can work on surgeries, do appointments and check-ups,” he said.

He has spent much of his life being treated at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, which has led to developing friendships with the hospital’s staff.

Birthday party will raise money for expenses
Randi, a former respiratory therapist, gave up her job to care for Alex.

Dave is a full-time nurse.

Finances are challenging for the Wesley Chapel family.

“When you don’t know if you can pay your bill, it’s really scary,” Randi said.

“It’s hard to just buy groceries half the time.”

On top of that are the costs of medications, medical equipment and medical supplies.

An oxygen tank, for example, lasts only a week.

Plus, Eric has been denied for certain health benefits and doesn’t qualify for government assistance.

Dave’s employer covers some expenses, but not others.

Throughout the trials, though, Randi said she’s learned valuable lessons.

“I am giving the best world I can to him (Eric). He is then, in turn, giving back to me love, joy, [and] compassion that he shows people,” she said.

For instance, Eric’s party on Feb. 3 exemplifies his caring spirit, she said.

His birthday was in December, but he wants to have a party so the community can join in.

Eric said the party is for other kids, as much as it is for him.

He empathizes with the challenges that other kids face with health issues.

Going to the hospital can be scary, he said, but he reassures other kids that the staff is there to help them get well.

“As soon as you feel better, the sooner you can go outside, run, play, swing, have fun and be a kid,” Eric said.

And, despite continuing challenges, Eric remains optimistic: “It’s a tough nut to crack, but I’m sure I can crack it in a snap.”

The party will help pay for his medical expenses, but the home-schooled boy sees other benefits, too.

“First of all, I want to be kind to the world and, second, I like presents,” he said.

Eric’s Birthday Party
Where: Old McMicky’s Farm, 9612 Crescent Drive in Odessa
When: Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Cost: $10 per ticket for those ages 2 and up
Details: Eric Piburn is inviting the community to celebrate his most recent birthday. There will be pizza, drinks, activities and a visit from superhero characters.
Info: Email . Tickets can be purchased online at tinyurl.com/yarpcmna.

Published January 30, 2019

PHSC lecture analyzes Dr. King’s national acclaim

By

Dr. Derrick White analyzed the evolution of Dr. Martin King Jr.’s rising popularity during a lecture series at Pasco-Hernando State College, to honor the contributions made by the slain civil rights leader.

White gave presentations at the college’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, and also spoke at its campuses in New Port Richey and Brooksville.

His talk was entitled “Making a King: The Contested Legacies of a Civil Rights Icon.”

White, a history professor from Dartmouth College, told the audience at the Jan. 23 event at Porter Campus about the gradual acceptance of King, which occurred over decades and resulted in a national holiday every year in King’s honor.

“It’s hard to imagine that Martin Luther King’s legacy was at one point contested,” White said.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his stirring ‘I Have a Dream’ speech during the Aug. 28, 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. (File)

Then, he asked rhetorically: “How did King become more popular in death?”

Before delving into this gradual shift, White shared facts on America’s perception of King prior to and immediately after his assassination.

In a 1966 Gallup poll, for instance, King had a 63 percent unfavorable rating across the nation.

Then, he showed the audience two images from King’s funeral procession in Atlanta.

In one image, dots were used to denote the minority of whites in the crowd; in the other, they denoted the overwhelming number of blacks in attendance.

“It visually gives you a sense of how unpopular King was in the broader community,” White said. “What we’ve witnessed in the 50 years since his assassination, has been the acceptance and admiration of King by all political stripes, races, creeds and colors.”

However, getting to that point was an uphill battle, as King tackled social issues, the professor said.

King called for a Marshall Plan to be implemented in the U.S. – similar to the one for rebuilding a post-World War II Europe. He proposed an initiative to advance economically stricken black communities.

This, along with King’s vocal opposition to the Vietnam War, only made him more unpopular, White said.

President Lyndon B. Johnson and the U.S. Congress passed the Civil Rights Act in 1965.

While this was seen as progress, the Watts Riots in Los Angeles followed soon after, raging for six days and resulting in more than $40 million of property damage, according to the Civil Rights Digital Library.

An investigation, prompted by California Gov. Pat Brown, found that the riot was a result of the Watts community’s longstanding grievances and growing discontentment with high unemployment rates, substandard housing and inadequate schools, according to the library’s website.

Dr. Derrick White was the presenter for the PHSC 34th annual Martin Luther King lecture series. At the Jan. 23 event at the Porter Campus, White analyzed the evolution of Dr. King’s rising popularity. (Brian Fernandes)

White argued that Malcolm X was seen as a more effective leader at that time because he was able to convey the anger of African-Americans in a way King did not.

What’s more, the backlash toward King and the civil rights movement was not only confined to the Jim Crow South, but throughout the Midwest and North.

“The racism and vitriol he faced in Chicago was worse than any place he had ever stayed in Alabama or Mississippi,” White stated.

The historian then circled back to his original question on King’s rising popularity after death. He attributed it to two incidents.

First, there was the creation of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Center and its conflict with the Institute of the Black World.

Second, there was the debate in the 1970s and 1980s over having a Dr. King holiday.

After King’s assassination, his family opened an Atlanta institution in his honor in 1970.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Center consisted of a monument, library, park, museum and two academic institutions – one being the Institute of the Black World (IBW).

According to White, the King Center and its IBW faction had different agendas in mind.

The center wanted to solely memorialize King and mark the civil rights movement as a success.

The IBW, however, wanted to move beyond honoring the fallen hero and focus on liberating blacks, said the professor.

In the IBW’s quest to collect historical records for its archive, it found itself in mounting debt.

Financial issues resulted in staff workers being laid off and the institute eventually disbanding from the King Center.

White stated that the King Center’s overall vision would help set the stage for a national holiday.

Fifteen years of debate in Washington D.C., also played a factor in the inception of a Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Congressman John Conyers would first introduce legislation for a holiday in 1968, but it didn’t get the votes needed to pass.

In 1979, Sen. Ted Kennedy also implored a day of memorial, stating that King’s movement had been successful.

It wasn’t until 1983 that President Reagan signed the legislation declaring a Martin Luther King Jr. federal holiday, and it was first celebrated three years later.

Forty-four states initially recognized the holiday, but expanded as King’s signature speech became the centerpiece of his legacy, said White.

White argued: “Conservatives between 1979 and 1983 showed acceptance of the King holiday when they could not stop its passage – in part because King was now being defined by his ‘I Have A Dream Speech’.”

The professor tied it to today’s political atmosphere, stating that certain rhetoric and actions show a misunderstanding of King’s vision – citing the partial overturning of the Civil Rights Act in 2013.

When asked if America would have made progress had Dr. King not existed, White answered yes.

“We treat King as the entire Civil Rights Movement,” he said. “At some point someone would have emerged to push these issues forward.”

He added that the movement was bigger than King and that when Rose Parks came to prominence, King was an unknown pastor at the time.

Published January 30, 2019

East Pasco honors Martin Luther King legacy

By

In ceremonies large and small across the country, the nation paused to remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a slain civil rights leader whose birthday is commemorated each year through a federal holiday.

An event to honor the birthday of slain civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., attracted a large crowd at the Lewis Abraham Boys and Girls Club on Jan. 21. (Courtesy of Richard K. Riley)

Locally, there were various events to observe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, including one at the Lewis Abraham Boys and Girls Club in Lacoochee.

Speakers lined up to offer remembrances of King, who would have turned 90 this year.

Cassie D. Coleman, president of the Martin Luther King Committee, organized “The Dream that Changed the World” event.

She read from Dr. King’s “I Have A Dream” speech.

As a pianist played a quiet ballad, punctuated by responses of “amen” from the crowd, Coleman recited these words: “With this faith, we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith, we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.”

Coleman extended a warm welcome, to all those present, and the audience joined in singing, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”

“Today is an awesome celebration,” Coleman said, reverently.

Pastor Philip Williams of the Glorious Church of God offered opening prayer to a congregation. The Jan. 21 event was in honor of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“We just don’t celebrate a man, but we celebrate a prophet that was sent by God to change the world as we know it,” she said.

Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez was among those attending.

“Dr. Martin Luther King devoted his life to advance equality, social justice, opportunity for all and challenged all Americans to participate in the never-ending work of building a more perfect union,” Hernandez said.

She emphasized the important role that citizens have in creating a safer and unified community.

“It’s Dade City’s desire to educate our residents to remember the dream that changed the world,” the mayor said.

The Pasco County Community Choir took the stage and amplified the gymnasium with their voices — accompanied by piano, tambourine and rhythmic hand claps from the audience.

Then, the Rev. Dr. Willie Roberts delivered his message: “I challenge all of us here today to dare to dream,” the minister said.

He noted that Dr. King’s vision was bigger than himself and compared him to such pivotal figures as Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.

He emphasized that making a dream come to fruition involves risk, and he asked the audience what they were willing to give up, in the quest for a better tomorrow.

He asked the audience to ask themselves: “Are you here to hinder, to help or to hurt?”

The program concluded with several pre-collegiate high school students taking the stage to read the biographies of female civil rights advocates, including Coretta Scott King, Rosa Parks, Ella Baker and Ida B. Wells – who were instrumental in advancing Dr. King’s cause.

Published January 30, 2019

Lutz church offers help in dealing with divorce

By

The process of divorce, let alone the aftermath, can be challenging, and the St. Timothy Catholic Church offers a program that aims to help.

The church’s Surviving Divorce program begins on Feb. 7.

The Lutz church began the program more than four years ago when it was suggested by parishioners from Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Land O’ Lakes.

Brian Smith and Gina Gawienczuk will help facilitate the upcoming Surviving Divorce Program at St. Timothy Catholic Church starting Feb. 7. (Courtesy of St. Timothy Catholic Church)

St. Timothy was accustomed to offering marriage and grief counseling, but divorce was a new field for the church.

“The program is designed to slowly move you in a way of healing and it builds every week,” explained Gina Gawienczuk, ministry resource specialist at St. Timothy.

The 12-week course is led by trained facilitators who address issues associated  with divorce, such as anger, depression, learning to forgive, finances and annulments.

Those attending the sessions are at various stages. Some are considering divorce, some are in the process, and other are already divorced.

Brian Smith had been divorced for more than a year, when he joined the program. Hearing other people’s stories helped him realize he wasn’t alone and helped him heal emotional wounds.

While open to those of any faith, including non-believers, the program does address the issue from a Catholic perspective and offers an approach that involves bringing God into the situation.

The class begins with a video, followed by small group discussions.

Besides discussing their thoughts on the video, group members are encouraged to share their experiences with each other.

By Week 11, the topic of annulment is addressed through a 20-minute talk, followed by questions.

At that stage, if someone wants to proceed with annulment, they can set up an appointment at the church.

For those seeking one-on-one counseling beyond the program, St. Timothy will refer them to either a spiritual advisor or an organization such as Life Connections Counseling Center.

Surviving Divorce Program
Where: Parish Hall at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 17512 Lakeshore Road in Lutz
When: Starts Feb. 7, on Thursdays, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Cost: $30 registration
Details: St. Timothy Catholic Church offers a program to help people who are struggling with the different aspects of divorce.
Info: Email Gina Gawienczuk at . Registration can be done at the church office or online at SaintTims.org/Surviving-Divorce/.

Published January 30, 2019

Local groups help federal workers

By

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

The help has come in various forms.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published January 23, 2019

Congressional aide offers dialogue on veteran issues

By

Rob Fleege, veterans liaison for U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, recently updated members of American Legion Post 108 and other veterans about what the congressman is doing to address issues facing former soldiers.

And, he gave the veterans a chance to share what was on their minds, during a Jan. 12 session at the Harvester United Methodist Church in Land O’ Lakes.

Fleege, a veteran himself, briefed his fellow comrades on a number of issues being tackled by Bilirakis.

Rob Fleege, veterans liaison for U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, spoke to former servicemen on Jan. 12 at the Harvester United Methodist Church, in Land O’ Lakes. His talk covered what the congressman is doing to address veterans’ issues. (Brian Fernandes)

One of the congressman’s chief efforts involves finding ways to prevent veteran suicide, Fleege said.

“We’ve created a congressional working group whose sole purpose is to figure out veteran suicide,” he added.

The group is made up of mental health experts from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) who have served in the military and can understand those they treat.

The first part of the process is analyzing the Transition Assistance Program and what improvements could be made there.

The program’s goal is to help returning troops to reintegrate back into civilian life.

According to Veterans Affairs, anywhere from 11 percent to 20 percent of soldiers returning from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder during any given year.

Bilirakis wants to help these individuals, but his office is equally invested in those who served in conflicts decades past – such as the Vietnam War.

“Why are older veterans killing themselves?” Fleege asked.

The congressman also is making efforts to pass the Blue Water Navy Act.

The bill would grant health care and disability benefits to naval officers exposed to the Agent Orange toxin during the Vietnam War.

The bill passed in the House last year, but failed to pass in the Senate.

Bilirakis remains hopeful that there is bipartisan support to address veteran concerns, Fleege said.

Attendees also had the chance to comment or ask questions about issues important to them.

One issue that came up involved the current federal government shutdown.

Hunter Knight Anstine is a former member of the U.S. Coast Guard and current commanding officer of American Legion Post 108.

His son currently serves in the Coast Guard and is personally feeling the consequences of the shutdown.

“There’s something fundamentally wrong when the fifth branch of the military, people who can’t just call in sick, are not getting paid,” the veteran said.

Other members in the audience raised concerns about affordable housing and finding work.

Fleege said Bilirakis is working with the Department of Urban Development — to address the housing concerns through the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing program.

This not only assists veterans in getting stable homes, but also pinpoints the issues that lead to homelessness, such as mental illness and substance abuse.

“We’re going to have another job fair,” Fleege added. “This is a continuing initiative we have every year to get all the veterans in one spot and get services with companies that are hiring.”

The liaison also noted that through a veteran advisory committee, Bilirakis is seeking jobs for veterans that offer livable wages.

When asked about the veterans who don’t qualify for VA services, Fleege mentioned the Mission Act.

The act, passed in 2018, assists veterans in getting adequate medical care through a civilian market when it is not provided by the VA.

Fleege’s passion for assisting fellow veterans stems partially from personal experience.

He served 18 months in Iraq as a sergeant, and has had personal experience with PTSD.

He went back to school and received a master’s degree in public health and a master’s degree in social work, specializing in mental health.

“I needed to figure out what happened to me,” Fleege said.

“Getting this background in mental health started to peel back the layers of why I was crying in inappropriate times,” he said.

Fleege decided to dedicate himself to working with other veterans to help them achieve a healthier life, and after he worked in Veterans Affairs for nine years, Bilirakis offered him the opportunity to advocate for former soldiers in the 12th congressional district.

As the meeting concluded, Fleege invited anyone with questions or concerns to reach back to him.

He also urged anyone struggling with PTSD to seek help from mental health organizations, such as the Veterans Alternative in Pasco County.

Finally, he reminded his comrades: “We have charged ourselves, as veterans, to take care of our brothers and sisters.”

Published January 23, 2019

Kumquat Festival offers fun, Old Florida charm

By

Susan Frimmel enjoys the social gathering — known as the Kumquat Festival — that brings all things kumquat to Downtown Dade City.

Taking part in the festival, known for its Old Florida charm, has been a tradition for her for 15 years, and this year promises to be no exception.

Frimmel, administrative director/marketing for AdventHealth Zephyrhills, said she’s looking forward to the event, set for Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Whether it’s kumquat marmalade, kumquat salsa or kumquat wine, chances are you’ll be able to find it in downtown Dade City, during the community’s annual Kumquat Festival. (File)

She is teaming up with AdventHealth Dade City staff to pitch their tent and give out 10,000 of the items they’re known for – tote bags.

“People will come back year after year to get the next edition,” Frimmel said, referring to the bags.

They come in handy for holding arts and crafts purchases from vendors, and, of course, kumquat treats.

For the 22nd year, vendors will offer pies, salsas, craft beer and wine – all flavored with the diminutive orange fruit described as the “little gem of the citrus industry.”

John Moors is the executive director of The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, which leads an army of volunteers, organizes event vendors and solicits the support of scores of sponsors to pull off the annual event.

“It was first started by a group of folks here in town that put a little festival together on the courthouse lawn with a few dozen vendors,” Moore recalled.

Now, both vendors and visitors come from across the country to attend the festival, which showcases Old Florida’s charm in a quaint downtown that boasts a historic courthouse, shops and restaurants.

Frimmel said it took a trip out of state for her to realize that the Kumquat Festival is a nationally recognized event.

“It’s something that’s known in a broader sense than just our local community,” she said.

The crowds have increased through the years, and the festival has added more offerings for patrons, especially for the children, Frimmel said.

This year’s kids’ area will include bounce houses, pony rides, face painting and other activities.

There’s a $20 entry fee, for those wishing to register their car for the all-day car show contest.

Downtown restaurants will be open for business, and there will be food trucks at the event, too.

The musical lineup includes Melissa Lee Zenker, the Strawberry Express Cloggers and the Calvary Assembly of Dade City.

Besides doling out tote bags, AdventHealth will offer health information and pamphlets detailing upcoming hospital events.

“My team has a great time at the event interacting with the guests,” Frimmel said.

Besides greeting and meeting new visitors, Frimmel is ready to direct them to the various attractions the festival has to offer.

And, she’s looking forward to reuniting with friends that she’s come to know through festivals in the past, she said.

Festival admission and parking are free.

Shuttle buses will transport guests from the Pasco County Fairgrounds to Downtown Dade City – at no charge.

Proceeds from the festival benefit The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce and the nonprofit organizations that help put the event together.

Registration for the car show can be done at 8 a.m., in Downtown Dade City, or online at RonnieSetsers.com.

For additional information, call the chamber at (352) 567-3769, or email .

Kumquat Festival
Where: Downtown Dade City
When: Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: The event features live performances, an all-day car show, arts and crafts, activities for the kids, various vendors — and all things kumquat.
Info: Call (352) 567-3769, or email .

Published January 23, 2019