Mary Rathman

Health News 07/19/2017

July 19, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Donna Owen, Judy Larkin and Shayne George, CEO

Frist Humanitarian Award recipients
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has recognized its winners of this year’s Frist Humanitarian Awards, in honor of their humanitarian and volunteer activities.

Dr. Shaival Thakore and Dr. Joseph Pino, CMO

Judith Larkin received the Volunteer Frist Humanitarian Award. Larkin has been with the hospital since 1988, accumulating more than 16,000 hours of service, volunteering as a chaplain’s aide, co-chairperson, visiting the assisted living facilities, and taking individuals out to dinner, run errands, shopping and doctor appointments.

The Employee Frist Humanitarian Award was given to Jonathan Hoehn, of the imaging department, for his outstanding patient care and skill level. Hoehn is a former army sergeant and an active Scout leader for the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts.

Dr. Shaival Thakore was honored with the Frist Physician Award for his mentorship of new physicians.

Residency class graduates
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point graduated its second Osteopathic Internal Medicine Residency Class.

The program recognized the achievements of graduating residents Camille Alfonso, Jonathan Lind, David Otis, Michael Roberts, James Shepard and Woody Taves; Faculty of the Year Dr. Nidal Hamame; and, Resident of the Year Woody Taves.

The highest in-service exam scores went to Michael Harris, 99th percentile among all second-year osteopathic medicine residents who participated; and, Hamish Patel, 99th percentile among all first-year osteopathic internal medicine residents who participated.

NAMI support meetings
The Pasco County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers two types of support group meetings every month.

The NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group is a structured closed group, open only to those with a mental illness diagnosis. The group is for individuals age 18 and older, who are interested in the recovery process, sharing coping skills and being with others who understand the daily challenges of living with a mental illness. The group is facilitated by trained peers.

The NAMI Family Support Group is for family members and caregivers of an adult with a mental illness diagnosis.

The support meetings cover all brain disorders including, but not limited to, OCD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, multiple personalities and more.

For information, call (727) 992-9653, or visit NamiPasco.org.

Chalk Talk 07/19/2017

July 19, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Student-authors want to help save the world
Two local students, one from Wesley Chapel and one from Land O’ Lakes, are headed to Los Angeles for a share of $250,000 in prizes at The Paradigm Challenge’s annual awards ceremony. Co-authors Catie Tomasello, 13, and Paige Atkinson, 12, created their children’s book, ‘Sophia Saves the World,’ with a message of collaboration, kindness and saving the planet.

Catie Tomasello and Paige Atkinson want to have copies of their book, ‘Sophia Saves the World,’ in every classroom throughout the country. (Courtesy of Paradigm Challenge)

Students ages 4 to 18 from 173 countries participated in this year’s competition, which challenged students to come up with new ideas to reduce waste in homes, schools, communities and the world at large.

Tomasello’s and Atkinson’s book tied for first place in the 9 to 13 age group.

Every year, the Paradigm Challenge offers prizes to the top 100 finalists and their teachers. Submissions include children’s books, as well as inventions, scientific research, mobile apps, community service projects, documentaries, websites and public service videos.

The goal for Tomasello and Atkinson is to have copies of “Sophia Saves the World” in classrooms throughout the country.

The next challenge inspires students to generate new ideas to improve personal health through wellness and healing, and will launch Aug. 1. The entry for deadline is May 1, 2018.

For information on the Paradigm Challenge, visit ProjectParadigm.org.

Top AP scores recognized
River Ridge High School’s AP (advanced placement) teachers and administrative staff placed congratulatory signs in the yards of the AP students, or ‘royal achievers,’ who scored a 5 out of 5 on their AP exams.

The team event commemorates the rare achievement of a top score on an AP exam.

Backpack giveaway
Nearly 1,000 participating TCC and Wireless Zone stores are teaming up to donate 172,000 backpacks full of school supplies to children, through TCC’s annual School Rocks Backpack Giveaway.

Since 2013, TCC has donated more than 505,000 backpacks with supplies to ensure children are well-prepared for the start of the school year.

Participating TCC stores are inviting local families to bring their children to the store to pick up a backpack July 23 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

There will be 220 backpacks available at each TCC store, and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The local participating TCC store is at 18959 State Road 54 in Lutz.

Meal applications open online
The Pasco County Schools free and reduced-price meal online application is now available for the 2017-2018 school year at PascoSchoolMeals.com.

Under the National School Lunch Act, families who are below the federal income eligibility guidelines may qualify for free or reduced-price meal benefits. A new application must be submitted at the start of each school year, and only one application can be completed per household.

Families that have received a letter indicating the student is directly certified, do not need to apply.

For information and questions, call Megan Sexton, Food and Nutrition Services finance specialist, at (813) 794-2480.

Professor receives distinction award
Susan Brown Foster, a Saint Leo University tenured professor and author, was honored by Ohio State University’s College of Education and Human Ecology with its Award of Distinction. Foster earned her doctorate from Ohio State in sport management in 1988.

The professor helped to create standards for sport management programs in higher education and developed internship standards at Saint Leo University that have been adopted by other schools.

Foster also co-authored the textbook, “Experiential Learning in Sport Management: Internships and Beyond.” The second edition was published this past April to include content about social media in sports and other developments in the field.

Foster teaches courses that include legal issues in sport.

Bishop Parkes named trustee
Saint Leo University welcomed the Most Reverend Gregory L. Parkes, bishop of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, as its newest member of the university’s board of trustees, effective July 1. Members of the board exemplify the school’s six core values, and give of their time and expertise.

Bishop Parkes was installed as the fifth Bishop of St. Petersburg on Jan. 4. He succeeded the Most Reverend Robert N. Lynch, who served the diocese since 1996. Lynch, Saint Leo Class of 2017, previously served on the university’s board of trustees.

Fall registration underway
Registration for three fall sessions at Pasco-Hernando State College is underway for new and returning students.

The fall course schedule is available online at Info.PHSC.edu/course-schedule. New students should contact PHSC for admissions information or apply online at PHSC.edu/admissions.

Beginning fall 2017, students may not register for a course after the course’s initial meeting. The last day to register for online classes is the Sunday before classes begin for each term.

The application fee for new students is $25, and orientation and placement tests are free.

Nominations open for service academies
U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) is accepting applications for nomination to the U.S. service academies.

Each year, Bilirakis has the opportunity to nominate high school students from Florida’s 12th District to be accepted to the U.S. Military Academy, the Naval Academy, the Air Force Academy or the Merchant Marine Academy.

The office will accept submissions through Sept. 29, and applicants will be interviewed starting in late October.

For information or to download an application, visit Bilirakis.house.gov and click on Services.

Chalk Talk 07/12/2017

July 12, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Local students awarded scholarships
Lyndra Davis, of Zephyrhills High School, and Luis Pereira Hernandez, of Wiregrass Ranch High, were each awarded a $500 Carolyn Parslow Memorial Scholarship from the Tampa Chapter of Credit Unions. Both are 2017 graduates and members of the San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union. At the presentation were, from left, Jeff Parslow, Carolyn Parslow’s son; Lyndra Davis; Janette McElwain, Suncoast Credit Union; Luis Pereira Hernandez; and Patty Sarne, Tampa Chapter and SACFCU.

Clemson Dean’s List
These Odessa students were named to the Dean’s List at Clemson University, South Carolina, for the Spring 2017 semester: Kelly R. Barry, psychology; and, Samantha Nicole Cuffe, biological sciences.

Students must achieve a grade-point average between 3.5 and 3.99 on a 4.0 scale to be named to the list.

Outstanding senior
Natalia Campos, of Lutz, has earned the Outstanding Senior Marketing Major Award from the Department of Marketing and International Business at Valdosta State University, in Georgia.

Campos was one of 10 accounting, economics, finance, health care administration, international business, management, marketing, and business leadership students recognized for outstanding achievement during the 2016-2017 academic year by the Harley Langdale Jr. College of Business Administration.

Aviation programs open house
Pasco-Hernando State College will host an Aviation Programs Open House July 27 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at its East Campus, 36727 Blanton Road in Dade City, in the Public Service Technology Building.

Pending approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, beginning fall 2017, PHSC’s new aviation department will offer two programs: Aviation Administration Associate in Science and Professional Pilot Technology Associate I Science.

Future programs will include Aviation Maintenance Administration Associate in Science and Unmanned Vehicles Systems Operations Associate in Science.

To RSVP by July 20, visit PHSC.edu/aviation, or call Cathi Kelly at (352) 518-1255.

Fall registration underway
Registration for three fall sessions at Pasco-Hernando State College is underway for new and returning students.

The fall course schedule is available online at Info.PHSC.edu/course-schedule. New students should contact PHSC for admissions information or apply online at PHSC.edu/admissions.

Beginning fall 2017, students may not register for a course after the course’s initial meeting. The last day to register for online classes is the Sunday before classes begin for each term.

The application fee for new students is $25, and orientation and placement tests are free.

Nominations open for service academies
U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) is accepting applications for nomination to the U.S. service academies.

The office will accept submissions through Sept. 29, and applicants will be interviewed starting in late October.

For information or to download an application, visit Bilirakis.house.gov and click on Services.

Pasco school grades rise
Pasco County schools achieved school grade improvements with increases in the number of A and B schools, and decreases in the number of schools under state review.

The improvements reflect the dedication of Pasco County students and teachers, as the district’s grade improved from a C in 2016 to a B.

Seven schools improved by two letter grades, and 29 schools improved by one letter grade.

Calusa and Hudson elementary schools improved from an F to a C; Lacoochee, Moon Lake and Gulf Trace elementary schools improved from a D to a B; and, Pine View and Quail Hollow elementary schools improved from a C to an A.

A focus on school improvement created a reduction in the number of differentiated accountability (DA), turnaround, and lowest 300 schools. DA schools improved from 23 schools in 2016 to only one in 2017.

Four schools implemented a turnaround program in 2016, and all have achieved success to come out of turnaround.

The number of district lowest 300 improved from 11 to 4.

Altogether, there are 15 A, 20 B, 35 C, one D, and no F Pasco district schools.

There were four A, two B and one C Pasco charter schools.

Athenian Academy of Pasco County saw the highest grade increase among charters, improving from a D to a B.

Saint Leo hosts Decision Days
Saint Leo University’s Adult Education Center will host Decision Days at four Pasco-Hernando State College campuses for those wanting to pursue a bachelor’s degree.

Meet with admissions representatives to discuss transfer options, credit equivalency, tuition and basic financial aid.

Decision Days events will be from noon to 4 p.m., at these campuses:

• Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel on July 18

• Spring Hill Campus, 450 Beverly Court, July 18

• North Campus, 11415 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Brooksville, July 19

• West Campus, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey, July 19 and July 20.

To reserve a spot, email , or call (727) 816-3117.

Health News 07/12/2017

July 12, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Sertoma Foundation receives funding
Sam Shrieves, marking president of Capital City Bank, presented a $250 check to Debra Golinski, executive director of Sertoma Speech & Hearing Foundation, to be used for program services. Capital City has been a supporter of Sertoma programs in Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties for nearly 20 years.

Hospital hands out awards
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has recognized Peggy Pappas, RN, with the 11th annual Good Samaritan Health Clinic Nurses’ Gala Nurse of the Year award. A winner is selected from each local hospital.

Pappas will reign for one year with community appearances, such as a judge for the Festival of Trees event and riding in the Chasco Fiesta Parade.

The hospital also has selected its male and female volunteer of the year award recipients.

Dixie Cagle joined Regional Medical’s volunteer association in 2009 and has volunteered 17,500 hours. Cagle greets patients and families at Welcome A and Welcome D, is a chairperson for Welcome D, a courier team leader and a member of the awards committee. She also has served two years as director-at-large on the Volunteer Association Board.

Adrian Borel has been with the hospital for nearly 28 years and has accumulated more than 15,000 hours of service. Borel worked for 26 years in the pharmacy, and two years ago started working in materials management making deliveries throughout the hospital.

He received the Five Star Award in 2014 and the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award from former President George W. Bush in 2008.

Real-time online scheduling launches
New and existing patients of Bayfront Health Medical Group now have anytime access to make an appointment online, with select medical providers.

Bayfront Health Medical Group, affiliated with Bayfront Health Dade City, is among the first health care providers in the area to offer a real-time online booking service.

Individuals now have 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week access to check availability and schedule an appointment, using a mobile device or a PC through MyBayfrontHealth.com.

The free, online service also can help patients gain access to appointments that open up on a doctor’s calendar due to last-minute cancellations and reschedules.

Providers available for the service are Dr. Elizabeth John, internal medicine; Dr. Kozhimala John, internal medicine; Dr. Fernando Morales, primary care; Dr. Kousalya Sara, pediatrics; Dr. Joseph Nystrom, family practice; nurse practitioner Barrie McCrimmon, family practice; and, nurse practitioner Mark Roque, family practice.

Most providers are expected to be available for online booking in the future.

Maternity Suites celebrate one year
Oak Hill Hospital in Spring Hill celebrated the first anniversary of the opening of its Maternity Suites. On opening day June 7, 2016, two boys were delivered to separate parents. Since then, 607 babies have been delivered by OB/GYN physicians and certified midwives at the hospital.

The Maternity Suites is a 22,000-sq.-ft. facility, which includes six labor and delivery suites, 10 postpartum recovery suites, two antepartum labor suites, a cesarean surgical suite, and a 12-position holding nursery for babies who need special monitoring or continuous observation.

In addition, there are board-certified specialty nurses and other professional support staff on-site 24 hours a day, seven days a week; a lactation specialist; next-generation amenities, including the latest industry standards for patient monitoring and an advanced baby security system; and, wireless fetal monitoring.

NAMI support meetings
The Pasco County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers two types of support group meetings every month.

The NAMI Family Support Group is for family members and caregivers of an adult with a mental illness diagnosis.

The support meetings cover all brain disorders including, but not limited to, OCD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, multiple personalities and more.

For information, call (727) 992-9653, or visit NamiPasco.org.

Chalk Talk 07/05/2017

July 5, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Exploring ways to stay healthy
Casio Jones, wellness director for Florida Hospital Zephyrhills CREATION Health and Wellness Center, visited the fifth-grade class of Barbie Monty at Carrollwood Day School. Jones shared his Green Body Pledge, which includes 10 key principles encouraging students to make healthy life choices.

Future programs will include Aviation Maintenance Administration Associate in Science and Unmanned Vehicles Systems Operations Associate in Science.

To RSVP by July 20, visit PHSC.edu/aviation, or call Cathi Kelly at (352) 518-1255.

Back-to-School celebration
Fred K. Marchman Technical College, Chasco Elementary School, Calusa Elementary, Chasco Middle and Ridgewood High are hosting a Back-to-School Bash July 22 at Ridgewood High, 7650 Orchid Lake Road in New Port Richey.

There will be free student resources, including physicals, school supplies, clothing and haircuts.

There also will be activities, bounce houses and free breakfast.

For information, call Kara Merlin at (727) 774-3701.

Bright Schools Competition winners
Sophia Nobles and Catherine Tomasello, along with their coach and teacher Michele Seidel, of Tampa Christian Community School in Lutz, have been named the first-place national winners in the second annual Bright Schools Competition. The team, ShiftCycle EyeWear, was one of 50 national finalists teams.

The competition, a collaboration between the National Sleep Foundation and the National Science Teachers Association, encourages students (grades six to eight) to explore the correlation between light and sleep, and how it influences student health and performance.

According to Bright School’s website, ShiftCycle’s winning project, “ShiftCycle EyeWear” identified a problem in their community and developed a prototype to help the estimated 15 million U.S. night-shift workers stay alert while on the job and realign their circadian rhythm, so that they can get better sleep after work. ShiftCycle’s eyewear offers green-blue light therapy and features electro-chromic polymer lenses that block blue light and bright light at the right times.

Students had to identify, investigate, and research the issue using scientific inquiry or engineering design concepts to develop a prototype, create an awareness campaign, or write a research proposal for the competition.

Projects were evaluated on the basis of several criteria, including scientific accuracy, innovativeness and potential impact.

Information about the competition and winners can be found at BrightSchoolsCompetition.org.

Leadership program gets top honors
Leadership Saint Leo, the university’s program to develop and train leaders, was honored at the LEAD2017 forum hosted by HR.com in Nashville, Tennessee.

The forum brings together top thought leaders and the world’s best leadership practices.

Saint Leo’s program started in 2005 to expand leadership capacity, build culture and create a common leadership lexicon across the university, including its education centers, online offices and University Campus.

HR.com recognized the Saint Leo program, selected from entrants, in these categories:

First place Best Third Party Channel Partner/Customer Training Program
Second place Best Use of Executive Coaching
Fourth place Best Use of Team Building
Fifth place Best Mentoring Program
Sixth place Best Experienced/Senior Leaders Program

About 110 of the school’s active leaders have graduated from the program.

Pasco exam scores climb
Pasco County Schools saw the percentage of students overall who are considered proficient increase by 3 percentage points in both English language arts (ELA) and mathematics, moving up from 52 percent proficient to 55 percent proficient in ELA, third through 10th grade; and, from 54 percent proficient to 57 percent proficient in math, third through eighth grade.

Local area schools on the state’s watch list and the grade levels showing improvement (10+ percentage points) included:

Cox Elementary School: fourth-grade ELA up from 31 percent to 48 percent; fourth-grade math up from 36 percent to 66 percent; and fifth-grade math up from 29 percent to 41 percent.

Lacoochee Elementary: third-grade math from 26 percent to 63 percent; and fourth-grade math from 35 percent to 46 percent.

Pasco Elementary: third-grade ELA up from 26 percent to 39 percent; third-grade math from 25 percent to 49 percent; and fifth-grade math from 32 percent to 44 percent.

Florida school ranks among best
Schools.com’s Best Schools for 2017 ranked 1,649 four-year colleges and universities in the United States. The top 10 were: Utah State University, Texas A&M-College Station, University of Utah, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, University of Florida, North Carolina State University-Raleigh, Utah Valley University, University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus, University of Maryland-College Park, and Oklahoma State University-Main Campus.

The rankings involved a rigorous data-driven methodology evaluating the higher education options against 13 factors related to affordability, flexibility, and other quantitative factors.

For the analysis, full methodology and sources, visit tinyurl.com/y744ld68.

Health News 07/05/2017

July 5, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Excellence in Nursing awards
The Medical Center of Trinity has recognized two nurses who demonstrate excellence in professional mentoring and compassionate care.

Michelle Sparks, RN, received the Excellence in Nursing Professional Mentoring Award. Sparks has been employed at the hospital for four years, and has taken on the role of mentor and preceptor for 5 West Oncology.

Gregory Kennedy, RN, received the Excellence in Nursing Compassionate Care Award. Kennedy has been employed at the hospital for four years, and is the nursing manager for 2 West. His attention to detail, ability to empathize and genuine concern for those in his care are inherent to him.

New vice president of operations
Oak Hill Hospital has appointed Cathy Edmisten as its new vice president of operations, replacing Alejandro Romero, who has transferred to the Medical Center of Trinity.

Edmisten has a background in emergency services, nursing operations, nursing administration and nursing finance.

She has lived in Spring Hill for 30 years and has had a wide range of health care management positions, including assistant chief nursing officer at Oak Hill Hospital; chief nursing officer/director of clinical services at University Community Health Long Term Acute Care Hospital in Connerton; director of nursing support operations at University Community Hospital in Tampa; director of operations at Woodruff & Company in Brooksville; charge nurse at Oak Hill Hospital’s emergency department; and, 2010-2011 Kiwanis Club of Nature Coast president.

LifeLink board appointment
The LifeLink Legacy Fund, a nonprofit community service organization dedicated to the mission of the LifeLink Foundation, has announced Dr. Thomas C. Pearson as a new member to its Board of Directors.

Pearson, an Atlanta-based physician, is currently director of the Emory Transplant Center’s Kidney Transplant Program. He also is a professor of surgery for Emory University and an affiliate scientist at the Yerkes Division of Pathobiology and Immunobiology, both in Atlanta.

Pearson steps into the board position previously held by Dr. John Whelchel, who served with the Fund for five years.

Frist Humanitarian award
The Medical Center of Trinity has honored Lizette Otero, director of nursing for the Progressive Care Unit/Cardiovascular Care Unit, with the Frist Humanitarian Employee Award.

Otero has served at the hospital for more than a decade, and has been a member of the Women’s Orthopedic Global Outreach for four years. Otero also uses her vacation time for medical trips.

The Frist award, created in 1971, honors outstanding individuals for humanitarian and volunteer service. The award is named for Dr. Thomas Frist Sr., founder of HCA and renowned humanitarian.

Battle of the Belts award
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has awarded a $500 prize to the students at Ridgewood High School for the “most improved safety belt use” while driving in the “Battle of the Belts.”

The program, with partner Safe Kids of Pasco County, was initiated in an effort to change the statistics and increase seatbelt use.

There were several award categories such as highest seatbelt use, most improved seatbelt use, best school campaign, best public service announcement, best poster and best essay.

Nonprofit of the Year
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has been recognized as the 2017 Nonprofit of the Year in the crisis resources category, by the Tampa Bay Business Journal.

The Nonprofit of the Year awards recognize Tampa Bay nonprofit organizations in a number of categories, including arts, culture and humanities; crisis resources; education; and, environment and animals.

NAMI support meetings
The Pasco County Chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offers two types of support group meetings every month.

The NAMI Family Support Group is for family members and caregivers of an adult with a mental illness diagnosis.

The support meetings cover all brain disorders including, but not limited to, OCD, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, multiple personalities and more.

For information, call (727) 992-9653, or visit NamiPasco.org.

Festivities planned to celebrate the nation’s independence

June 28, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Independence Day — a day that represents the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States of America — gives people a chance to celebrate the Fourth of July. There are many events planned across the Tampa Bay region, and here are a few of the choices.

Connerton’s annual Nation Celebration, in Land O’ Lakes, will take place July 1 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with a neighborhood party in its New Town community. There will be Build-A-Buddy, free games, a disc jockey, live music by GottagrooveBand, food trucks, local crafters, free bounce houses, and fireworks sponsored by Benedetto’s Ristorante Italiano. Guests can register by June 30 at Connerton.com/event-signup, to be eligible for a $250 gift card.
Chief Ryan Andrew Anthony of Station 1 Tampa (now open at State Road 54 and U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes), and All Hazard Response will host a Red White and Blue Station 1 Dedication and Fire and Police Salute on July 2 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. The event is for police, fire, emergency responders, their families and the community. Festivities include food, prizes and more. For information, call (813) 728-4251.
Dale Sloan, of Dade City, holds a salute during the Pledge of Allegiance and the playing of ‘God Bless America.’ (Courtesy of Richard K. Riley)
The Wesley Chapel Noon Rotary Land O’ Lakes Satellite will “paint” Land O’ Lakes red, white and blue from July 1 to July 8, with patriotic bows along Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, to honor military personnel and veterans. Bows will include the business or personal name and the name of the person being honored or recognized in memoriam. Names also will be placed in an advertisement in The Laker/Lutz News. For information, call (813) 817-3011.
Lutz-Land O’ Lakes American Legion Post 108 will place flags on veterans’ graves at the Lutz Cemetery on U.S. 41 on July 1 for Independence Day. The flags will be retrieved July 5. Members of the post and other volunteers are needed to help. Call Lyle Watson at (813) 996-5917.
Sparklebration will take place July 4 at the Pasco County Fairgrounds. There will be festival food, entertainment, a hotdog-eating contest, a watermelon-eating contest, a vendor mall, balloon creations, face painting, bounce houses, pony rides, a petting zoo, a Hula Hoop contest, a karaoke contest, fireworks (weather permitting) and more. Gates open at 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and free for kids ages 12 and younger. Wristbands for unlimited play are $10. Parking is $5. For information, or to sign up for a contest, visit PascoCountyFair.com, or call (352) 567-6678.
The annual Lutz Fourth of July celebration and parade will take place in downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot. The parade will start at 10 a.m., and there will be a race and festivities before and after the parade. Admission and parking are free.
Avalon Park West, 5227 Autumn Ridge Drive in Wesley Chapel, will host a July Fourth Celebration from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with food trucks, bounce houses, vendors, community performances, and fireworks at 9 p.m. For information, visit AvalonParkWest.com.
The American Victory Ship, docked behind the Florida Aquarium at 705 Channelside Drive, will host its Fourth of July Family FunFest on July 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. There will be music, games, food, beer, wine and family fun. Guests can watch the Channelside fireworks at 9 p.m., from on board the ship. Tickets are $14 for adults, $7 for kids age 12 and younger, and $10 for military and veterans. Group discounts are available for 10 people or more. The price does not include food and beverages. For tickets, call (866) 468-7630, or visit TicketWeb.com.
The Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park at Channelside in Tampa will be the site for a Red White & Blue Festival on July 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. There will be live jazz by the Riverwalk, a watermelon-eating contest, a patriotic fashion show, a food court, a photo booth, games and activities, arts and crafts exhibits, a best-dressed competition for adults, children and pets, fireworks at 8:45 p.m., and more. No backpacks, large bags, luggage, coolers, outside food and beverage, alcohol, seating/chairs, tents, blankets or personal fireworks will be permitted. Get a free ticket at CityFestivals.org.

Here are some pointers from the National Council on Fireworks Safety:

Obey local laws regarding the use of fireworks. (Check local law enforcement websites for guidance).
Read the labels on your fireworks to understand the precautions you should take and the performance descriptions of the firework, before you ignite it.
A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities.
Do not give fireworks to children.
Remember that alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
Be sure to wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
Use fireworks outdoors, in a clear area. Be sure you are not near buildings or vehicles.
Do not relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
Have a bucket of water nearby, as well as a water hose that’s ready to use.
Do not carry fireworks in your pockets or shoot them into a metal or glass container.
Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
Dispose of spent fireworks by getting them wet and placing them in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials. Leave them there until the next day.

• Do not attempt to transport fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage. Possessing or transporting fireworks in checked or carry-on baggage violates the Federal Aviation Administration regulations.

Published June 28, 2017

Health News 06/28/2017

June 28, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Hospital recognizes nurses, doctor
The Medical Center of Trinity has given its Nurse of the Year and New Nurse of the Year awards.

Mitchell Jessie, RN, Behavioral Health Services, has been honored as the Nurse of the Year. Jessie puts patient needs first and has been identified as a top performer in patient surveys, and is perhaps the most complimented of all staff members. Team members admire him for his skills of empathy and his sunny disposition, sense of humor, and the ability to make everyone laugh.

Shawna Mulherin, RN, is the New Nurse of the Year. Mulherin has served on 4 West for seven months. She has displayed professionalism, responsiveness and teamwork in all her interactions with staff and patients.

The hospital also has named Dr. Dwayne Ledesma, general and vascular surgeon, as Physician of the Year. The award is nurses’ choice based on integrity, professionalism, accountability, responsiveness, teamwork, nurturing, empathy and respect.

Ledesma received his medical degree from Northwestern University Medical School and completed his residency at Baylor University, and fellowships at Union Memorial Center for vascular intervention in Baltimore and the University of Texas.

Volunteer award winners
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point awarded its first quarter volunteer Star Awards.

Elizabeth Celia, Five Star winner, has volunteered at the hospital for more than two years with 4,600 hours of service. Celia helps on special projects, has served as chairperson for comfort carts, and is currently a courier and helps make heart pillows for patients.
Ted Zapoliski, Five Star, has volunteered for more than three years with 1,200 hours of service as a courier, two shifts a week.
Midge Nelson, Five Star, has been a volunteer for six years with 2,500 hours of service as a courier, taking extra open shifts.
Dorothy Cassels, One Star, has volunteered since 2007 with 1,600 hours of service in the CSU waiting room and the CPRU waiting rooms.
Nancy McCann, One Star, has been a volunteer since October 2000 with more than 3,600 hours of service working in the hospital’s gift shop.

Grants for opioid crisis
U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) has commended new efforts to combat the nation’s opioid crisis with more than $70 million in grant funding to help communities and health care providers prevent overdose and treat addiction.

Florida state and local government, as well as non-government organizations, are eligible to apply.

The grants are authorized by the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, legislation supported by Bilirakis in Congress, and will be administered through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

For information on the grants, visit HHS.gov.

To apply for a grant, visit SAMHSA.gov.

Special Doctor Service Award
Dr. Pariksith Singh, CEO of Access Health Care Physicians, was recognized with an award from iLa. Ganeshan, a member of Parliament in India, for his outstanding contributions toward health care.

The award is called the Shreshtha Vaidya Seva Ratna Award, or the Special Doctor Service Award, and was presented to Singh in the presence of his Holiness Swami Brahmayogananda, Founder Acharya, Yoga Shanthi Gurukulam, Chennai, India.

Ganeshan is an Indian politician and senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party.

Chalk Talk 06/28/2017

June 28, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Credit union awards scholarships

Dawn Newsome, vice president Business Lending and Scholarship Committee member, presented Anthony Conti with a $2,500 scholarship on behalf of San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union. Conti is a recent graduate of Torchbearers’ Christian Academy in Dade City, and plans to study criminal justice/pre-law at Saint Leo University in the fall.

Tim Baldwin, president and CEO of the San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union, awarded a $2,500 scholarship to member Rose Phelps, of San Antonio. The surprise presentation took place at Keystone Park in Odessa, while Phelps’ home-school co-op was hosting a meeting. Phelps plans to attend Northeast Catholic College in New Hampshire in the fall.

Pasco schools job fair
Pasco County Schools is partnering with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office to host a job fair June 29 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at River Ridge High School, 11646 Town Center Road in New Port Richey.

Representatives from government agencies are looking for applicants for various positions, including bus drivers, clerical, information services, accounting, law enforcement, instructional and maintenance. Other positions also may be available.

To register, visit PascoCommunityJobFair.eventbrite.com.

For information, contact Lori Perreault at (813) 794-2845 or .

Collegiate World Series
Saint Leo University will host the International Collegiate World Series June 28 to July 2, for the first time.

The National Hispanic Institute will bring about 120 students from the Dominican Republic, Panama and across the United States, who have a high potential to become leaders within the U.S. and global Latino communities.

The forward-looking leadership program utilizes immersive-disruptive learning, a self-directed, student-centered method that encourages critical thinking and challenges society’s assumptions and conventions.

It also introduces students to core NHI concepts, as well as helping students to prepare for the college admissions program and to practice inquiry-based learning.

For information about the National Hispanic Institute and its programs, visit NationalHispanicInstitute.org.

Outstanding student leaders
Pasco-Hernando State College honored 11 students with the Dr. Felisha R. Barker Outstanding Student Leader award, presented in memory of Barker, a former PHSC financial aid advisor, instructor, and academic and club advisor. Barker was employed at the school for nearly a decade.

The local area outstanding student leaders in 2017 included Devon Chavarria and Samantha Politano, Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, Wesley Chapel; and Jessi Perez and Ashley Puckett, East Campus, Dade City.

Additionally, these local area military veteran students were recognized: Aryan Szczurowski, Porter Campus; and Dustin Thomas, East Campus.

Community service awards were given to Phi Theta Kappa, Porter and East campus chapters.

Saint Leo promotes Melanie Storms
Saint Leo University has promoted Dr. Melanie Storms to senior vice president for Worldwide Operations.

Storms was named vice president of the Worldwide division in June 2016. She will continue to be responsible for Saint Leo’s education centers, graduate programs, and Center for Online Learning, as well as provide strategic leadership and oversight of the university’s marketing and enrollment functions.

Storms earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from the University of Central Florida, and her master’s and doctoral degrees in clinical psychology from the Florida Institute of Technology.

Student recognitions
The following students have been named to the spring Dean’s List at their respective schools:

Alexia Faith Acebo, of Lutz, University of Alabama
Gleb Barkovskiy, of Lutz, Bucknell University, Pennsylvania
Courtney F. Bobo, of Lutz, Samford University, Alabama
Kelsey Bognar, of Lutz, Hofstra University, New York
Alexis Burnette, of Wesley Chapel, Furman University, South Carolina
Natalia Campos, of Lutz, Valdosta State University, Georgia
Amanda Clifford, of Lutz, University of Alabama
Nicholas Tyler Eicholtz, of Odessa, University of Alabama
Alexandra C. Fietsam, of Wesley Chapel, Iowa State University
Brycie Gauthier, of Lutz, Oklahoma City University
Seriah Groen, of Odessa, Wheaton College, Illinois
Gabrielle Harrison, of Lutz, University of Alabama
Jessica Howell, of Lutz, Furman University, South Carolina
Fiona Lefresne, of Lutz, Missouri State University
Nathan Mansour, of Odessa, University of Dayton, Ohio
Jordan Mark, of Lutz, Mercer University School of Engineering, Georgia
Ebonee Nicholes, of Lutz, University of Alabama

Also, Grace Korta, of Lutz, was named to the President’s List at Mercer University Eugene W. Stetson School of Business and Economics.
The University of Alabama awarded a UA Away scholarship to Alexia Acebo, of Lutz. Acebo also has been named to the Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.

Cody Burger, of Lutz, graduated from Mercer University College of Pharmacy with a Doctor of Pharmacy.

Natalia Campos, of Lutz, earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Valdosta State University in Georgia.

Missouri State University awarded a Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development to Bridget Soltau, of Land O’ Lakes.

Chalk Talk 06/21/2017

June 22, 2017 By Mary Rathman

Women’s club gives merit awards
The Lexington Oaks Women’s Club presented a $500 merit award to each of three deserving students who reside in Lexington Oaks. From left, Margaret Wilhelm, treasurer; recipients Madison Riggle and Bethany Berry; and, Cindy Cox, president. Natalie Klopfenstein, the third merit winner was not present.

Zephyrhills High reunion
The 47th annual Zephyrhills High School Alumni, Teachers & Friends Reunion will take place June 25 at the Zephyrhills Lions Club, 5827 Dean Dairy Road.

Registration starts at 11 a.m., followed by a covered-dish luncheon at 1 p.m. There also will be announcements and recognitions at 2 p.m.

The reunion is for anyone who attended, taught or worked at any of the Zephyrhills schools from elementary through high school, and their families.

Dress is casual. Bring a dish to share. Admission is free.

For information, contact Clereen Morrill Brunty at (813) 782-8763 after 6 p.m., or .

To register, visit PascoCommunityJobFair.eventbrite.com.

For information, contact Lori Perreault at (813) 794-2845 or .

College-Sponsored Merit Scholarship Winners
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation announced more than 3,200 winners of National Merit Scholarships financed by U.S. colleges and universities. Officials of each sponsor college selected their scholarship winners from among the Finalists in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program who plan to attend their institution.

These awards provide between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study at the institution financing the scholarship.

An additional group of scholars will be announced in July.

Nathaniel W. Edgar (Land O’ Lakes), home-school
Probable career field: computer science
National Merit University of Florida Scholarship

Maxwell W. Keenan (Land O’ Lakes), Land O’ Lakes High School
Probable career field: computer science
National Merit University of Chicago Scholarship

Elle D. Hazlett (Lutz), home-school
Probable career field: medicine
National Merit Calvin College Scholarship

Bailey M. Zinckgraf (Lutz), Steinbrenner High School
Probable career field: industrial engineering
National Merit University of Florida Scholarship

Riley L. Troyer (Odessa), Carrollwood Day School
Probable career field: engineering
National Merit Purdue University Scholarship

Michael Gendreau (Wesley Chapel), Land O’ Lakes High School
Probable career field: aerospace engineering
National Merit University of Central Florida Scholarship

Navya Jampani (Wesley Chapel), Land O’ Lakes High School
Probable career field: medicine
National Merit University of South Florida Scholarship

Lauren E. Payne (Wesley Chapel), Wiregrass Ranch High School
Probable career field: medicine
National Merit University of Florida Scholarship

Local students graduate
These local students have graduated from their respective schools:

Cami Ash (Lutz), Harding University, Arkansas
Gleb Barkovskiy (Lutz), Bucknell University, Pennsylvania
Samantha Nicole Cuffe (Odessa), Clemson University, South Carolina
Nicholas Eicholtz (Odessa), University of Alabama
Stephanie Leeanne Erickson (Odessa), Clemson University
Ashleigh Fults (Lutz), Georgia Tech, Georgia
Karen Kegel (Lutz), Georgia Tech
Michael Muhammad (Lutz), Troy University, Alabama
Amanda Victoria Owens (Lutz), Greensboro College, North Carolina
Michelle Price (Lutz), Troy University
Tyler Scarboro (Lutz), Samford University, Alabama
Caleb Turner (Odessa), University of North Georgia
Chadd Williamson (Land O’ Lakes), Heidelberg University, Ohio

Saint Leo names new department vice president
Dr. William J. Lennox Jr., president of Saint Leo University, has appointed Christian Schindler as vice president of marketing and enrollment.

Schindler has served in a variety of leadership roles in marketing and enrollment, including vice president of strategic recruitment and global marketing at Laureate Education, vice president of marketing and enrollment at Straighterline, and senior director of international global marketing at LeapFrog Enterprises.

Schindler is a graduate of the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario, where he also received a Bachelor of Arts in political science.