The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Brian Fernandes

This fair was a showcase of ideas — turned into inventions

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Students at John Long Middle School recently transformed the school’s cafeteria and gymnasium into a venue where students showed off inventions they created, based on their ideas.

Eleven-year-old Logan Cantele rolls out his remote-controlled Clawrider robot, which is capable of moving and picking up items. (Christine Holtzman)

The school’s Maker Mania community night was inspired by the concept of Maker Faire, an international movement which encourages people of all ages and backgrounds to produce something unique of their own.

John Long Middle was the first public school in Pasco County to have such a fair, last year, and it was so successful that this year, the school invited the community — as well as the students’ families — to come take a look.

There was plenty to see.

Throughout the cafeteria and gymnasium, long rows of booths showcased creations from 76 students, in sixth through eighth grades.

Eighth-grader Breanna Martin, 13, shows how a hydraulic arm she made is powered by water. Each syringe of colored water represents a different command that the arm is able to perform.

As people stopped by, students explained what they had made and demonstrated how it works.

“The focus is to learn how to do something they didn’t already know how to do,” explained Darcy Cleek, a science teacher at John Long.

Students are taught about the process of engineering, but they also learn how to market their products, Cleek said.

Eleven-year-old Ava Krutulis, for instance, had a booth displaying her name brand ‘AK Toys,’ which she came up with using her initials.

As part of her brand, she presented her blue robotic snake to viewers.

Eleven-year-old Brooke Wheatley demonstrates how her project, a dance shoe dryer and deodorizer, can fix stinky shoes in 15 minutes by using rice, scented oils and a fan.

The snake’s head, body and pointy tail were carefully shaped and constructed from pieces of plastic — held together with toothpicks, beads, hot glue and thumb tacks.

Ava explained the source of inspiration for her project: “My sister really wanted a snake, but we can’t (have one).”

Her mother, Gina, chuckled recalling her response to the request for a real pet snake: “Mom said no,” she said.

Ava decided to make the next best thing.

During her demonstration, the toy snake twisted and slid across the floor with the help of a battery-operated motor.

Down the hall in the gymnasium, Isabel Martinez, 11, displayed her homemade lava lamp.

Using household ingredients, such as bottled water, vegetable oil, food coloring and Alka-Seltzer tablets, 11-year-old Isabel Martinez, shows off a colorful lava lamp she created to demonstrate at Mania Maker Night.

The sixth-grader said the idea caught her eye while she was doing research on Google.

Soda bottles containing water and oil were each placed on light pads so there would be a glow on the inside.

Her booth had instructional poster boards, and she explained how the lava lamp works, while demonstrating.

Vegetable oil and water don’t mix, so when I put the Alka-Seltzer in, the water reacts and pushes it up towards the oil,” she said.

Along with the tablets, Isabel dropped in food coloring, creating an even more interesting visual.

Next to Isabel stood Breanna Martin whose project used different colors of water, released through syringes, to move a hydraulic arm up, down or forward.

Eleven-year-old Naomi Gibson sits behind her ‘Tide Killer Shark,’ a device designed to eliminate red tide, as a previously produced video demonstration that the sixth-grader starred in broadcasts on the television screen.

The 13-year-old said her father who works in construction, and with hydraulic equipment, helped her with her project.

Besides learning how water pressure works, she also learned how to advertise, she said.

“This would help manufacturers,” she added. “Before you have to present something on what you want to build, you have to show them a diagram.”

Back in the cafeteria, 11-year-old Logan Cantele displayed something similar, but more computerized.

“I have a claw machine that moves on wheels,” he stated. “It’s a reliable source.”

The Claw Rider runs on four motors to help move it up, down, to spin and clench small objects.

Using an app on his tablet and a remote control, Logan demonstrated how the claw could pick up a ball and place it inside a cup.

Eleven-year-old Sylvana Armstrong uses a remote control to change the colors of the LED lights on her Bluetooth stereo speaker project that she named the ‘Alien Party Time Music Box.’

The sixth-grader was compelled to create the machine because his late great-grandmother once had limited mobility.

“What I have here is something that can help someone that can’t walk or can’t really do much,” he said.

When asked if his project helped him develop a greater appreciation for science, he replied, “you bet it does – especially the engineering part.”

Sylvana Armstrong, a sixth-grader, made what is essentially a music box.

She redesigned a portable speaker with painted cardboard – an Alien Party Time Music Box.

She demonstrated with a Bluetooth how to connect her phone to the portable speaker.

As she pulled up a music video on YouTube, she could watch the visual and pace around while getting amplified sound at a distance from the speaker.

She said she wanted her project to be unique, and she said, overall, being involved in Maker Mania has helped her to become more creative.

The faculty at John Long didn’t set out to have the students compete with one another, but to learn the fundamentals of being an inventor.

“The things that you can’t get away from [are] critical thinking and problem solving,” Cleek said.

“That’s at the heart of what this whole thing’s about.”

As Cleek surveyed the booths and the crowds of students, she said the sight makes her feel hopeful about the future.

Published December 26, 2018

Horror film to feature Land O’ Lakes

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Ask Land O’ Lakes residents about their hometown and they’ll probably describe it  as friendly, quiet and community-oriented — but not the most likely setting for a horror film.

However, filmmaker Chuck Morrongiello, who is a local resident, already has started shooting scenes for his second horror film right in Land O’ Lakes.

The Long Island, New York native grew up with an affinity for scary content on the big screen.

Harvey’s Hardware Store, a staple in the Land O’ Lakes community for more than 50 years, was a chosen location for an upcoming horror movie. Film editor Karolina Morrongiello, left, poses with general manager Paul Harvey and cast member Catherine Hall. (Courtesy of Chuck Morrongiello)

“I was into horror movies, into classic thrillers,” he explained, referencing notable pictures like “The Exorcist,” “The Shining” and “Texas Chainsaw Massacre.”

By the late 1970s, he was living out another love of his – playing guitar for a rock band he helped form.

From his late teens to his early 20s, Chuck and his band were performing live shows, living like rock stars.

He made a transition in 1987, when he moved to Tampa and began working as a financial agent.

“I had to shift to a different career,” he said, attributing this to a dynamic change in the music industry. “I had to get into a suit-and-tie situation.”

He had new-found success.

In 2006, he built a home in Land O’ Lakes, with a backyard overlooking the water.

As the community’s namesake suggests, it has lakes galore.

And, that sparked the filmmaker to consult with his wife, Karolina, about an idea of his – a couple living in a home near a haunted lake.

He recalls thinking it would be cool to create that story and put a Hollywood spin on it.

Karolina, a fellow horror buff, was intrigued by the idea, especially having the location set in their own town, where it could gain more notoriety.

“We love Land O’ Lakes,” she said. “That’s why we’re thinking it’s good for the community.”

Production is underway.

The film doesn’t have a name yet, but the couple expects to complete the production by next summer.

The real-life couple will also play the main story’s couple in the film.

In addition to playing one of the lead characters, Chuck is the director, musical composer and screenwriter.

Karolina is editing the film and providing vocals.

“The soundtrack is everything,” said Chuck who envisions a dark, cinematic sound. “Without music, the scene is boring. The music gives it that jive and that juice.”

The scenes will be shot at Land O’ Lakes locations. There will scenes on the highway, in homes and in landmark establishments – such as Harvey’s Hardware Store.

“We are the oldest family oriented, family operated business in Land O’ Lakes,” said Emma Lou Harvey, whose store was established in 1961.

While she admitted she’s no horror fan, Emma Lou was welcoming, opening her shop to the cast and crew.

Karolina recalled it being a long day on set as the filming took nine hours.

Chuck chose the hardware store being it’s a “historical area” and even got Emma Lou’s son, Paul, in for a small role.

As director, Chuck wants the film to be original in the sense that even the cast members are from the Tampa Bay Area, if not specifically from Land O’ Lakes.

He does not hold traditional auditions, but instead approaches those who he believes have the potential to pull off a role.

“We want to take people who know nothing about acting and make them an actress or actor,” Chuck explained. “I think that’s the best way to do it.”

He has suggested parts to friends whom he feels have certain skills useful on screen. For instance, he even offered a role to his chiropractor.

The independent project comes off the heels of Chuck’s first horror film, “Mt. Misery Road,” which was filmed in both New York and Florida.

Although the film is still awaiting a release date expected in early 2019, it has already been critically acclaimed, winning the Honorable Mention Award in Ohio.

Chuck said he’s currently living the “retirement fun mode” phase of his life working on this second film.

While he hasn’t stopped his financial career altogether, it has taken a backseat to directing films.

Published December 19, 2018

County continues pursuit of Ridge Road Extension

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Pasco County is continuing its pursuit of a project to allow the extension of Ridge Road, and Sam Beneck, the county’s project manager, gave a briefing on the status during a Dec. 12 luncheon meeting of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.

“We are currently in the design and permitting phase,” said Beneck. “We have not started any construction activities,” he told members and guests during the luncheon at the Fox Hollow Golf Club in Trinity.

At the North Tampa Bay Chamber luncheon on Dec. 12, Sam Beneck, Pasco County project manager, updates attendees on the current plans for the Ridge Road Extension. (Brian Fernandes)

The planned 9-mile project will be broken into two phases, the project manager said. Phase 1 would stretch from Moon Lake Road in New Port Richey heading east to the Suncoast Parkway. Phase 2 would run from the Suncoast Parkway to U.S. 41, in Land O’ Lakes.

The duration for the first phase is expected to be three years, but the county hopes to shorten that.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers views it as one project, and the funds for the phases will be allocated separately.

The first phase is estimated at $67.8 million. The second phase has not yet been funded.

A Suncoast Parkway interchange also is being considered. The design for that project is expected to cost $1 million, with funding from the Florida Turnpike Enterprise.

“In prior years, we have expended almost $20 million on this project,” Beneck explained. “That includes land acquisition, a fair amount of design and redesign.”

He emphasized that in working with the Corps of Engineers, the county vigorously sought the alternative that is cost efficient, while improving mobility and reducing hurricane evacuation time.

Replacing roadside slopes with walls and pedestrian rails is being considered, he said.

The project manager also said the county has been working closely with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reduce impacts to the environment.

Pasco County and the Corps of Engineers came to a consensus in 2017 on an approach called Modified Alternative 7 as the least environmentally damaging option. It calls for partially elevating the Ridge Road Extension.

According to a traffic analysis survey, Modified Alternative 7 would also increase traffic flow and reduce evacuation time.

Under the plan, 16 bridges would be added in sensitive areas, as well as curbs and guardrails.

Specialized fencing also will be installed in areas where animals are most likely to frequent.

The county also would provide $3.2 million in compensation for environmental impacts during Phase 1.

The county also is collaborating with Duke Energy to design a new trailhead with parking and to provide access to existing hiking trails within the Serenova Preserve.

The county expects a permit decision by the Corps of Engineers by September 2019.

While the county continues to press forward on its efforts, the project continues to meet resistance.

Two of those opponents spoke at the Pasco County Commission’s Dec. 11 meeting.

Dan Callaghan, a long-time critic of the Ridge Road Extension, said that contrary to the county’s claims, the project is being pursued to promote development, not to improve hurricane evacuation.

He said the county wants to nibble to death its preserve areas and “slash our wild places to death, by a thousand cuts.”

Clay Colson, who also opposes the Ridge Road Extension, urged commissioners to protect the county’s preserves.

“You know preserve is something that means we’re going to keep it for our future generations,” Colson said.

Instead of extending Ridge Road through the Serenova Preserve, Colson said the county should extend Connerton Boulevard to the Suncoast Parkway.

Staff writer B.C. Manion contributed to the report.

Published December 19, 2018

This club aims to help improve community life

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The prospect of teenagers showing up at the door Halloween night asking for canned foods as opposed to sweet treats may seem unusual.

However, that is what the Wesley Chapel LEO club has set to do – stand out in the community in a positive way.

As part of the Wesley Chapel Lions Club youth division, the LEOs – which stands for leadership, experience and opportunity – is a group of teenagers ranging from age 12 to 18.

Members of the Wesley Chapel Lions Club and its youth division, the LEOs, help to pick up an area along a 2-mile stretch of Bruce B. Downs Blvd., on Nov. 11. Shown here, from left, are: Maeher Sukhija, Tricia Gregoire, Zoe Gregoire, Seth Gregoire, Tom Tokish and Tom Mavor. (Courtesy of Wesley Chapel Lions Club)

This fall, the LEOs placed flyers door to door in their Wesley Chapel communities informing residents they would be back, hoping for a liberal donation of canned goods.

Sure enough, on Oct. 31, they kept their promise — putting an entirely new spin on ‘trick-or-treating.’

They collected more than 190 pounds of food, which was donated to the Helping Hands Food Pantry at Atonement Church in Wesley Chapel.

The youth division of the Lions Club is nothing new. The first one began in 1957, with the help of the Glenside Lions Club in Pennsylvania.

It since has grown to have an international presence — with more than 6,500 clubs in more than 140 countries. In addition to encouraging good deeds, the organization has a scholarship program for its members.

Tom Mavor, president of the Wesley Chapel Lions Club, has witnessed the great work the youths have done. He hopes their parents will see them as contributing and competent young adults.

“Their kids are engaged, they’re fun, they’ve got great ideas and they want to do great things,” he said.

LEOs can either be organized through a school or a local Lions chapter – the Wesley Chapel club chose the latter.

“We wanted something that would bring kids from different schools and different cultures together in a place where they can work collaboratively,” reasoned Mavor.

The Lions Club encourages the LEOs to brainstorm ways to help their community, and then take the initiative to put the plans in motion.

Fourteen-year-old Jillian Tokish is president of the Wesley Chapel LEOs, and her grandparents have been Lions Club members for as long as she can remember.

Her grandfather initially approached her with the idea of starting the youth division. She liked the idea and over the summer the club began.

“It’s a really cool experience,” she said.

It gives youths a chance to put aside their phones and gain a greater appreciation of nature, and people, in general, she said.

One Sunday morning in early November, the youth club, along with the assistance of the Lions Club, cleared trash and debris along a 2-mile stretch of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard.

The experience gave the youths a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of maintaining a safe and clean environment, Mavor said.

After Hurricane Michael devastated the Florida Panhandle, the group joined with other LEO clubs to assemble personal hygienic kits for those needing help.

“What really drives them is seeing success,” said Mavor. “We’re helping children to learn that giving back is important.”

They also have started visiting local nursing homes to spend quality time with the elderly.

“You see the smile on people’s faces – that just brings so much joy,” Tokish said, describing the responses that club members receive.

The group now has 15 members, and they wear their club T-shirts to club gatherings, as well as to school, to advertise their cause.

In the future, they plan to deliver baked cookies to the Wesley Chapel firefighters to thank them for their service.

The Wesley Chapel club also wants to partner with local schools, to implement programs aimed at anti-bullying and also helping youths to interact socially.

They expect to send a representative of their club next year to a U.S.-Canada Leadership Forum, which will be held in Arizona. The forum will give club members from both countries a chance to learn in various workshops.

Mavor sees a difference between how his generation grew up and current millennials, but he said they have something in common: A willingness to help mankind.

Published December 12, 2018

Guardian ad litem volunteers advocate for children

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One of the greatest opportunities a child can have is to be raised in a safe, caring foundation, surrounded by those they know they can trust.

According to the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), there are more than  400,000 children in the United States living in foster care — many without any understanding of what it is to have a permanent home.

Abuse and neglect are the primary reasons why youths are removed from their homes, and CASA is a nationwide organization which assists children through the court system to be placed in homes.

Guardian ad Litem is a child advocacy group, operating under the auspices of CASA, which offers services across the 20 judicial circuits of Florida.

Larnelle Scott, left, and Mariela Ollsen, of the Guardian ad Litem Sixth Judicial Circuit, work on behalf of children in Pasco and Pinellas counties placed in foster care. (Brian Fernandes)

Guardian ad Litem is made up of a team of volunteers, attorneys and child advocate managers whose sole purpose is tending to the needs of foster children.

Guardian ad Litem, of the Sixth Judicial Circuit, which covers both Pasco and Pinellas counties, was established in the early 1980s.

This year the circuit has the second highest rate of abused and neglected youth in and out of home care – with more than 2,000 reported cases.

Larnelle Scott and Mariela Ollsen both work for Guardian ad Litem in the Sixth Circuit.

While there are different factors for why the rate in this circuit is so high, both women attribute much of it to the rise in the opioid epidemic, which has also plagued the country at large.

With adult supervision hindered by drug use, it can lead to child neglect in a big way said Ollsen, circuit director for Guardian ad Litem.

That void can be filled by volunteers of the organization, who come from all walks of life. The volunteers check in on foster kids and establish a good rapport with them.

However, they first must go through a thorough training and vetting process to ensure they are suitable for the task.

A report of abuse, whether by a family member, teacher or the police, is relayed to an abuse hotline, which in turn gets the court system involved – then Guardian ad Litem is appointed.

The Sixth Circuit in Pasco County holds hearings at two courthouses, the one in Dade City and in New Port Richey.

Guardian ad Litem doesn’t have any say in whether a child is removed from the home or where they are placed, but they can make recommendations based on their case studies and interactions with the children.

While they are ultimately trying to provide security for those in foster care, sometimes the kids don’t see it from that perspective.

“Court can be a scary thing for kids,” explained Ollsen. “There’s a lot of trauma involved with the kid when you remove them. Even in a dysfunctional environment, for most of our kids, that dysfunction is their norm.”

This makes it all the more important for Guardian ad Litem volunteers to form trusting relationships with these children, offering counseling, as well as considering their academic and medical needs.

Once removed from home, children are placed in either a licensed foster home or group home, if there is no extended family with whom they can stay.

Scott and Ollsen said they would prefer that foster care be a last resort if a child can stay with someone who is not only trustworthy but a familiar face.

Ollsen acknowledged that the biggest reward for a Guardian ad Litem volunteer is when a child has found a sense of “permanency” – an environment that is stable and not constantly changing around them.

Educating the public on foster care is also something that Guardian ad Litem is committed to whether it be at Rotary Clubs, churches or schools.

“I do community information sessions a couple times a month in the libraries,” said Scott, who is a regular at both the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library and the Hugh Embry Branch Library.

Parents concerned about their child’s well-being sometimes reach out to her, as they know she will advocate for what is in their child’s best interest.

As the community outreach coordinator, Scott has become a familiar confidant in the children’s lives as they sometimes divulge their deepest feelings.

She affirmed that: “The foster home placement might change, the case manager may change, the schools might change, but the Guardian ad Litem is usually that one anchor that they know is going to be in their corner.”

If interested in becoming a volunteer, visit GuardianAdLitem.org.

Weekly information sessions are every Tuesday at the New Port Richey office at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Dates for the monthly sessions at Land O’ Lakes Library and Hugh Embry Library can be found at HeroToAChild.org.

Want to help?
If interested in becoming a Guardian ad Litem volunteer, visit GuardianAdLitem.org.
Weekly information sessions are each Tuesday at the New Port Richey office at 10:30 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Dates for the monthly sessions at Land O’ Lakes Library and Hugh Embry Library can be found at HeroToAChild.org.

Published December 12, 2018

Local agency helps people to stop smoking

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While some people wait until New Year’s Eve to make a resolution to quit smoking, experts say there’s no time like the present to get started on the effort.

Those who have tried to quit smoking understand the uphill battle in attempting to kick the habit to the curb.

But, help is available.

Through its tobacco cessation program, the National Area Health Education Center has been training health care professionals nationwide to help smokers overcome their addiction.

As part of the National Area Health Education Center, Nicole Kelly works as a specialist in helping smokers quit throughout Pasco County. (Courtesy of the Gulf Coast North Area Health Education Center)

In Florida alone, the organization has 10 centers covering all 67 counties.

The Gulf Coast North Area Health Education Center (GNAHEC) covers five counties, including Pasco.

Established in 1993, this center has long been affiliated with the University of South Florida’s College of Medicine. It provides resources to help end tobacco use.

The Gulf Coast center offers courses through funding provided by the Florida Department of Health.

“They contract with us to do the in-person group classes,” said Nicole Kelly, tobacco program manager for the center.

Kelly’s background in public health serving Pinellas County was put to good use when she joined the center’s staff in 2013.

After undergoing additional training for her position, she became certified in holding tobacco cessation programs – which aims to help smokers to kick the habit.

The Gulf Coast center offers two free tobacco cessation programs – ‘Tools to Quit’ and ‘Quit Smoking Now.’

‘Tools to Quit’ is a one-time, two-hour session that helps attendees to make plans and prepare to quit smoking.

Specialists, like Kelly, identify the withdrawal symptoms that are expected, how to deal with them as they arise and offer nicotine replacement therapy, if needed.

“We encourage them to set a quit date a week or two after class, so they don’t feel like they have to quit that day,” she explained.

One-time sessions are usually followed up with an evaluation to check on the person’s status seven months after the class.

While walk-ins are welcomed, those who plan to attend are asked to register in advance.

This helps to get an idea beforehand of how long they have been smoking, how often and if they have taken any medications.

‘Quit Smoking Now’ is a six-week program. Class members meet one hour each week.

It’s the same methodology as ‘Tools to Quit,’ but at a more gradual process.

Between classes, members are supposed to put into action the techniques and advice given.

At each session, they report their progress and, by the third week, are asked to quit cold turkey.

The Gulf Coast center is planning to implement a third program in January 2019, which would accommodate large classes at behavioral health sites.

Programs can be held at various locations from medical establishments to libraries.

“Most hospitals and health care systems don’t have tobacco cessation programs that they provide, so we fill that gap perfectly,” said Kelly.

The program also partners with establishments at on-the-job sessions for employees battling with addiction.

This was the case on Nov. 15 for the Great American Smokeout when Gulf Coast center specialists helped encourage workers at their job site to quit smoking.

During the annual event, put on by the American Cancer Society, thousands of smokers across the country make a pledge to quit.

In 2006, Florida voters accepted an amendment that would allocate funds into tobacco cessation programs, thus supporting the Gulf Coast center and creating the Tobacco Free Florida Bureau in 2007.

Tobacco Free Florida opened up courses not only for cessation to end chain-smoking, but also courses for prevention as well.

These organizations also aim to prevent smoking, especially among youths.

According to the Florida Department of Health, the state has made improvements among high school students.

In 2018, 3.6 percent of students were reported as cigarette smokers, a decline from 8.5 percent just five years before.

However, electronic cigarettes, or e-cigs, have become a popular alternative to traditional ones among Florida teens.

In 2013, 5.3 percent of high school students were consuming the product where now, in 2018, it has nearly quadrupled, to 24.8 percent.

The Gulf Coast center does not advocate the use of e-cigarettes or vaping as a method within its program.

As part of the reasoning, Kelly stated: “Our program is evidence-based. We follow the clinic practice guidelines for tobacco dependence.”

She added that there are seven medications known to help and “we only promote the ones that we know there is strong research to show that they can help someone quit.”

While Kelly works mostly with adults, she said she gets excited when younger smokers come to the sessions because she can help stop smoking earlier in life.

Many older adults experience a health scare, which triggers their decision to quit smoking, she said.

To find an upcoming tobacco cessation class in your area with contact information, visit GNAhec.org/tobacco-cessation.

Published December 12, 2018

An atrophied hand offers beauty, inspiration

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Finding and creating beauty in spite of life’s obstacles is something Shyama Rangwala knows all too well.

She is a professional painter and art instructor with five studios ranging from Land O’ Lakes, Tampa and Brandon.

Monali ‘Shyama’ Rangwala is a professional artist who owns five studios in the Bay Area, often teaching kids with special needs.(Brian Fernandes)

Her birth name is Monali; however, under her adopted artistic name, “Shyama,” she is renowned for her featured work in more than 25 exhibitions in both her native India, as well as in the United States.

Back in India, her paintings have been admired by prominent figures, such as the governor of the Reserve Bank, film stars and athletes.

However, this budding success came in the aftermath of a challenging childhood.

Growing pains
At age 5, Rangwala’s complaints of agonizing discomfort and the apparent underdevelopment of her right extremities, prompted her parents to take her to the doctor, where she was diagnosed with localized scleroderma.

Also referred to as morphea, this is a connective tissue disease involving collagen, a protein in the skin that provides structural support.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, excess collagen production in the body results in thick, hard skin texture.

Shyama painted this piece to pay homage to a Hindu prophet.

Rangwala had a much smaller right arm than her left, with limited use. Her right leg was also stunted in growth being somewhat shorter than her left leg.

The condition resulted in her being home-schooled for a year to learn to adjust to her physical challenges.

“I couldn’t sleep, I was in so much pain,” she recalled.

Her feet were so sensitive that she had to walk on smooth surfaces. Even to this day, stepping on a grain of rice can cause discomfort.

As if that wasn’t gloomy enough, doctors believed her disease might spread to her entire body – and reduce her lifespan.

In the midst of various medical alternatives being considered, Rangwala’s aunt introduced the idea of homeopathy treatment – a more natural, holistic approach.

While the treatment didn’t cure Rangwala, to everyone’s amazement, it stopped the progression of the disease and brought relief from her pain.

Her parents have often described her as their “miracle daughter” for what she was able to endure and overcome.

In this painting, Shyama captures an outdoor music fest.

As a practicing Hindu household, the family believed all the more that their faith played a significant role in Rangwala’s improvement.

Her grandmother also gave her a statue for safekeeping and to cherish – the Hindu god Krishna, which would go on to become a major influence in her artwork later in life.

A newfound love
At a young age, Rangwala drew inspiration from Hinduism, as well as Indian architecture, to start painting portraits.

It was a therapeutic outlet to help her deal with her disability, and helping to give her purpose.

“My mind is always peaceful when I’m painting,” she said.

Her parents had encouraged her to study medicine, but she ultimately settled on working in finance.

Doctors advised that she learn to use her left hand for everyday activities, although her right hand, the one affected by the disease, was naturally her stronger one.

This colorful piece, which pictures the Hindu god Krishna surrounded by cows, won Shyama first place at the Florida State Fair.

Rangwala had little to no flexibility with her right fingers, but was persistent in using that hand, accomplishing some 30 paintings in her leisure time.

While Rangwala recognized art as a remedy, she also discovered she had a gift for it – and so did others.

One day, her art instructor came to her home and, after observing her paintings, encouraged her to enter art exhibits.

Her first major exhibit was in Mumbai, India, and she said it was a big turnout.

“It was a hit – I was interviewed by a lot of newspapers,” Rangwala exclaimed. “Some of the film stars came to my exhibition.”

She showcased her art in major Indian cities and was persistent in exposing her work to prominent figures.

One day, she camped outside the home of the governor and told the security guards she refused to leave until she had the chance to invite him to her gallery.

Her tenacious efforts proved successful, after the governor’s wife recognized Rangwala and welcomed her inside.

After two years showcasing in India, she moved with her husband, Tilesh, to Tampa in 2002.

Her first show in the U.S., was at the Gasparilla Festival after a friend introduced her to the festival’s event coordinator.

Shyama’s exhilarating painting of four white horses with an eagle overhead won first place at the Florida State Fair.

Sharing therapy with others
Rangwala’s paintings often have bright colors to convey a positive energy, she said.

She draws inspiration from Chinese and Japanese artistic styles, and reads Hindu scriptures as a means of inspiration.

She, in turn, tries to exude that same positivity to her art students, whose ages range from 3 to 80.

She wears a special shoe to align her right leg with her left, plus, she uses a cane.

In spite of this, she is determined to accommodate the desires of her students, which first began with only two participants and has grown to 120.

Rangwala is not a teacher in the traditional sense, she said, because she gives her students the liberty to create what they please — and doesn’t follow a curriculum.

“I give them full freedom,” she explained. “I try to fulfill their wish.”

What separates Shyama’s home from those in her neighborhood, is this animal-inspired painting on her front wall for passersby to view.

This year Rangwala’s students had their sixth annual art exhibit, with green as the main theme of the paintings.

In addition to her studio classes, she also teaches art to autistic kids at the University of South Florida, which has earned her an award from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.

Rangwala said she doesn’t want someone who has a disability to feel like it has to hold them back.

“I want to set an example for them that if I can do it, they can do it,” she said.

She is also planning to have art classes for the Hillsborough Sheriff’s Office as a way to alleviate the stresses that come along with their line of work.

From an atrophied hand comes creative beauty and inspiration for many.

To find out more, call Shyama at (813) 843-6784, or email her at . Paintings are available for purchase at ShyamShyama.com.

Published December 5, 2018

Flapjack Run offers exercise, flapjacks

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Hot pancakes topped with syrup will be the sweet treat awaiting patrons for the Flapjack 5K and 1 Mile Run.

The event, celebrating its 25th year this year, offers free admission to spectators and patrons.

Connerton Plaza at 21100 Fountain Garden Way in Land O’ Lakes, is the venue for the event, which will be on Dec. 8 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

As in past events, runners of all ages are expected to participate in this year’s 25th Flapjack Run on Dec. 8. (File)

The 5K run is set to begin at 8 a.m. The 1-mile fun run, or walk, will start at 8:45 a.m.

Vendors also will offer various crafts and food, and Santa will pop in, too, according to Suzanne Beauchaine, of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce, which is organizing the event.

A rummage sale also will be held, with a variety of items available for purchase.

Runners at the event will receive free flapjacks, while others can purchase a plate for $5, said Beauchaine, executive director of the Chamber.

Those intending to run can register at the event, but they are encouraged to do so in advance, online, to guarantee a T-shirt and a medal.

The cost is $25 for the 5K for adults; and a $17 fee for kindergarteners through 12th-graders.

The 1-mile run will be a flat rate of $15. Children under 5 can take part for free, when accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Trophies for first and second place winners will be awarded to each age group by decade, starting from age 14.

Winners also can be awarded by family members splitting into teams of two.

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel is presenting the event and proceeds benefit the Pasco County Parks Department.

To register online, visit tinyurl.com/ycnowb8d.

For additional information, contact The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 909-2722 .

Flapjack 5K and 1 Mile Run
Where: Connerton Plaza, 21100 Fountain Garden Way in Land O’ Lakes
When: Dec. 8, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Cost: Free to spectators and patrons; 5K run is $25 for adults and $17 for kindergarten through 12th-grade runners; 1-mile run is a $15 flat rate; free admission for runners age 5, accompanied by an adult.
Details: Attendees can enjoy a run or walk, a pancake breakfast, a rummage sale and purchase crafts from vendors.
Info: Contact the chamber at (813) 909-2722 or .

Published December 5, 2018

Pasco shelter offers haven from abuse

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Abuse can come in many different forms.

It can also be a sensitive issue for victims to divulge, especially if it occurs within their own households.

It’s a nationwide problem, and efforts have been made nationally and locally to provide safer environments for adults and children who have been abused.

Pasco County is among those striving to improve services for people in this situation.

Kelly Sinn has been working at Sunrise of Pasco County Inc., since 2002, helping survivors of domestic abuse rehabilitate. In 2013, Sinn succeeded Penny Morrill as CEO of the organization. (Courtesy of Sunrise of Pasco County Inc.)

Pasco has been engaged in this issue since 1982, when a group of Pasco residents formed a small coalition group which later became known as the Sunrise of Pasco County Inc., Domestic and Sexual Violence Center.

“It started as a grassroots organization,” explained Kelly Sinn, current CEO of Sunrise. “Initially, it was community members that saw that there was an issue.”

Under the helm of a female abuse survivor, the organization recruited volunteers within the community who were willing to open their homes for a night or two.

While it provided a temporary solution, it was understood that there needed to be something in place more long-term.

Sunrise started with one office in Dade City and, over the years, expanded with a shelter, a thrift store and outreach sources for survivors of domestic and sexual abuse.

During its 35-year history, Sunrise has grown, and now has facilities in Dade City and New Port Richey serving all of Pasco County.

The problem is well-documented. In Pasco County alone, during 2017 there were more than 4,000 reported incidents of domestic abuse, which includes sexual assault, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

The number of reported cases has risen steadily since 2013, figures show.

Sunrise works to reduce incidents of abuse through prevention programs, such as its collaboration with the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence.

Funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the initiative has trained counselors from Sunrise who travel to Pasco middle schools and high schools to teach students about such things as safe dating, healthy relationships and anti-bullying.

The students also are taught about being aware of their surroundings and learning to recognize — and avoid — areas that are prone to violence, both on and off campus.

All Sunrise employees go through a certified training, said Sinn, and when a counselor is told by a student that there is abuse occurring within their home, the counselor is obligated to make a report to authorities.

On the collegiate level, Sunrise has implemented the Green Dot Program at Saint Leo University, which teaches students how to safely intervene and de-escalate tense situations on campus.

When it comes to the legal aspect, Sunrise constantly works with all Pasco police departments to relay vital information.

This initiative was partially propelled by the Intimate Violence Enhanced Service Team (InVEST) established in 2009.

In addition to communicating with law enforcement, InVEST is a program that allows Sunrise to use both East and West Pasco courthouses as meeting places for survivors and legal advocates, as well as attorneys.

Here, survivors can learn the best options for their situation whether it is getting legal representation, getting a restraining order or an injunction.

Immense resources must be put in place for all these factors to play out.

That’s where the recent Reindeer Run held on Dec. 1, and Peace Breakfast, set for Dec. 6, come in.

While they can be enjoyable events, they also raise money to support Sunrise.

The Peace Breakfast is free; however, generous donations are accepted.

Aside from these benefits, the organization also receives federal, state and local funding, as well as private donations.

This makes it possible to provide three meals a day and counseling to victims, and direct them to resources for employment, housing and financial aid.

The 40-bed shelter, which houses individuals for a minimum of eight weeks, is a launching pad for progression said Sinn.

However, in some cases it may take an extended three to four months.

“Sometimes eight weeks isn’t long enough for a family to be able to find employment, child care [and] save up enough money to rent their own apartment,” she explained.

Sunrise also works with the welfare system to make sure that children are not split from their nonoffending parent, reducing the number taken into foster care.

While people tend to think of women and children as being targets of abuse, Sinn said there are men, too, that can be abused.

Sunrise does take in men, from time to time, and they have their own separate shelter.

While the organization typically deals with difficult and traumatizing issues, it also witnesses survivors who are able to pick up the pieces of their lives.

This is something Sinn credits to “such a supportive and embracing community” in Pasco County.

Sinn remembered a call she received several years ago from an abuse survivor who was in a happy marriage, with a child going off to college.

“That’s really humbling,” she said.

“Thank Yous come in so many different forms,” Sinn said.

Besides phone calls, Christmas cards, hugs and tears, there are also those who come back to work or volunteer at Sunrise, a place that helped them regain a sense of security.

If you have experienced abuse and you need help, Sunrise’s hotline staff is available 24 hours a day at (352) 521-3120.

Sunrise of Pasco’s 15th Annual Peace Breakfast
Where: Greenfelder Board Room at Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52 in Saint Leo
When: Dec. 6 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
Cost: Free with a voluntary donation
Details: Courtney Weil and her children will speak at the breakfast about being survivors of domestic violence and prevention efforts.
Info: To RSVP, contact Sunrise at (352) 521-3358 or .

Published December 5, 2018

Benefit set to help Christopher Starnes

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As Christopher Starnes was leaving an establishment in Dade City on a spring afternoon, he expected nothing other than to return home to his family – instead he woke up in a hospital.

As he was leaving the business, he was brutally attacked by two men.

He sustained a head injury, spent five weeks in a coma and underwent several surgeries to stop internal bleeding.

After returning home from a long stay at the hospital, the community was astonished by how well he was progressing.

“They said they had never seen anything like him,” said John Dragneff, of the Trilby Masonic Lodge 141.

Starnes had recovered and had gone back to work, but then suffered a relapse and had to undergo another brain operation.

To help him, Trilby Masonic Lodge 141 is hosting a benefit called Trilby’s Great Steak Dinner.

The event will be on Dec. 15, at the Dan Cannon Auditorium at the Pasco County Fairgrounds, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

With a $40 admission fee, the night includes a meal, dancing and a live performance by the Johnny Shelton Band. There also will be chance drawings.

Those who are coming will need to come hungry: The meal will consist of a 1-pound steak, baked potato, green beans, salad and a dinner roll.

Dragneff organized the benefit because of his close association with Starnes.

Most of the proceeds from the event will be used to help cover Starnes’ medical expenses.

A small portion will go to funding Masonic Lodge 141 youth activities, including the Trilby Boy Scouts.

For more information, call John Dragneff at (352) 206-2002 or email him at .

Trilby’s Great Steak Dinner
Where: Dan Cannon Auditorium at Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52 in Dade City
When: Dec. 15 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Cost: $40
Details: The fundraiser for Christopher Starnes will include live music, dancing, raffles and a steak dinner.
Info: Contact John Dragneff at (352) 206-2002 or .

Published December 5, 2018