Mary Rathman

Chalk Talk 10-29-14

October 30, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Saint Leo University announces new vice president
Jeff D. Borden is the new associate vice president for Teaching and Learning Innovation at Saint Leo University.

His appointment is effective on Nov. 7.

“Jeff will be an incredible asset to Saint Leo,” Arthur F. Kirk Jr., president of Saint Leo University, said in a release announcing the appointment. “For two decades, he has focused on trying to transform higher education. He has proven himself to be a forward-thinking innovator, and his efforts will help shape our institution’s future initiatives.”

Before joining Saint Leo University, Border spent 12 years in management positions with Pearson Education, the world’s leading learning company. Most recently, he was vice president of Instruction and Academic Strategy.

HCPS information sessions
Hillsborough County Public Schools will offer information sessions for its program to attract and train high quality teachers for students with disabilities, and for the Science and Mathematics Accelerated Readiness program for teaching science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Both sessions are Oct. 30 at 6 p.m., at CareerSource Tampa Bay, 9215 N. Florida Ave., Suite 101, in Tampa.

For information, call (813) 840-7032, or visit Path.mysdhc.org or Smart.mysdhc.org.

Bishop McLaughlin open house
Bishop McLaughlin Catholic School, 13651 Hays Road in Spring Hill, will host an open house Nov. 2 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

There will be family tours, and individuals can sign up for shadow dates.

Step-Up scholarships are accepted.

For information, call (727) 857-2600, or visit BMCHS.org.

Rushe Middle chili cook-off
Rushe Middle School, 18654 Mentmore Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, will host a chili cook-off Nov. 3 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Guests can sample mild to hot chili served by teachers and staff members, the PTSA and school resource officers.

There also will be live music.

Donations will be accepted at the door to support the Rushe Junior Justice Club.

For information, call Chris Snyder at (813) 346-1200.

Learn more about Academy at the Lakes
Academy at the Lakes, 2331 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, is hosting coffee and conversation groups for anyone interested in learning more about the school. All sessions are from 10:30 a.m. to noon.

Nov. 3 at 10:30 a.m., at The Lodge at Wilderness Lake Preserve, 21320 Wilderness Lake Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes
Nov. 10, Grand Hampton Clubhouse, 8301 Dunham Station Drive in Tampa

For information, call Luci Ward at (813) 909-7919.

WRHS hosts marching championships
Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, will host the Wiregrass Ranch Marching Music Regional Championship Nov. 8, at its stadium.

There will be vendors and food concessions. All proceeds will benefit the WRHS marching band.

Admission is $15. Children 5 and younger are free.

For information, email .

Rushe mystery book reveal
Rushe Middle School’s We Be Book’ n book club will reveal the mystery book that will be used for its schoolwide reading incentive Nov. 11 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Barnes & Noble at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28152 Paseo Drive, Suite 100, in Wesley Chapel.

Students will be led through a scavenger hunt at the store to find clues to the final reveal.

For information, call Linda Cobbe at (813) 794-2717 or (813) 361-8349.

October student citizens honored
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce recognized October Student Citizens at a recent ceremony for their exemplary effort, achievement, and contribution to their school, family and community.

Students honored were Madison Tyner, Heritage Academy; Shaune Xavier Hamilton, West Zephyrhills Elementary School; Marlon Farr, Zephyrhills High School; Chandler Ross, The Broach School; Samantha Hines, Stewart Middle School; Jaedyn Seigler, Woodland Elementary School; Sommer Engh, East Pasco Adventist Academy; Patricia Hansen, Taylor Elementary School; and Caleb Salings, The Monarch School.

Health 10-29-14

October 30, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Celiac support group meeting
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will host the West Pasco celiac support group Nov. 1 at 10 a.m.

The meeting will be followed by a gluten-free Thanksgiving dinner at 11:30 a.m. Guests should bring a covered dish. The meetings include recipe demonstrations.

For information, or to RSVP for the dinner, call (727) 862-4815.

Foundation to host Black & White Ball
The Suncoast Health and Education Foundation will host a Black & White Ball Nov. 1 at Aripeka Elks Lodge, 9135 Denton Ave., in Hudson.

A cocktail hour begins at 4 p.m., and dinner is at 5 p.m., followed by dancing.

Tickets are $20 per person available at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s lobby, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

There will be a silent auction, a raffle, and professional portrait taking by Glamour Shots Portrait Studio.

All proceeds will go to the foundation’s scholarship fund.

For information, call Barbara Benson at (727) 863-6437, or John Cardalena at (727) 967-1253.

Free autism symposium
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at University of South Florida is hosting its annual Autism Health and Wellness Event Nov. 1 from noon to 4 p.m., at Embassy Suites Tampa, 3705 Spectrum Blvd., near Busch Gardens.

There will be vendors, presentations by autism and health experts, and autism and behavior screenings.

Xbox representatives will be there with Kinect for interactive play for kids.

For information, call Daianna Apolito at (813) 974-2493, or visit Card-USF.FMHI.usf.edu/symposium.

Oak Hill walk, bake sale
Oak Hill Hospital’s Team Oak Hill Support Walk for breast cancer is Nov. 1 from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at 11375 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The walk and a pancake breakfast begin at 8:30 a.m.

There will also be a bake sale and a drawing for a handmade quilt.

For information, call Katie Stacy at (352) 597-6317.

Preview the new Florida Hospital ER
Florida Hospital Tampa, 3100 E. Fletcher Ave., will offer a look at its new emergency room Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event includes guided tours, CPR and poison prevention education, entertainment, food trucks, door prizes, and music.

Admission is free.

For information, visit FHTampa.org/NewER.

NAMI hosts veterans seminar
Elks Lodge 2284, 7201 Congress St., in New Port Richey, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness Pasco County will host “What Hurts, What Helps,” a seminar for veterans and their families Nov. 12.

There will be a panel of veterans dealing with mental issues sharing their challenges and successes through a question-and-answer presentation.

There also will be a spaghetti dinner.

Deadline for reservations is Nov. 3.

For information and reservations, call (727) 992-9653.

Alzheimer’s caregiver support
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, will have a free support group for family and friends caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia Nov. 4 at 10 a.m.

To register, call (813) 991-7524.

Nutrition and diabetes
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will have a nutrition and diabetes class Nov. 4 at 10 a.m.

Topics will include basic principles of nutrition, meal timing, how proteins and fats affect blood sugar, and how to make better food choices.

For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Free Medicare presentation
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will offer Medicare 101, an information presentation, Nov. 5 at 6 p.m.

Topics will include supplemental insurance, advantage plans, prescription drug coverage, and savings programs.

To make a reservation, call (727) 834-4868.

Hip pain seminar
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will present “Hip Pain: From Advil to Anterior Hip Replacement” Nov. 5 at noon.

Dr. Stephen Hanff will discuss the common causes of hip pain, treatment options, and the history of hip replacement.

Admission is free. A complimentary lunch will be served.

For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Hospice holiday grief support
Gulfside Hospice will host a grief support group at Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Parkway, Nov. 6 at 1 p.m.

Topics will include the four tasks of mourning, and tips and techniques to better handle grief during the holiday season.

Light refreshments will be served.

For information, call Cecilio De Leon at (727) 992-8034.

Flu shots offered at Copperstone

Copperstone Executive Suites, 3632 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, will offer Walgreens flu shots Nov. 7 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., in the meeting room.

No appointment is necessary.

Most insurance is accepted. The cost without insurance is $25.

Sertoma foundation fundraiser

The Sertoma Speech & Hearing Foundation will host its Las Vegas Casino Night Nov. 8 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., to benefit its Children’s Hearing Help Fund.

The event will be at West Pasco Board of Realtors, 5409 Sunset Road in New Port Richey.

Sponsorships are available and consist of banners, advertising, tickets to the event with appetizers, beverages and more.

For information, call (727) 834-5479, or visit FamilyHearingHelp.org.

Free copies of Five Wishes
Throughout the month of November, Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care will offer free copies of Five Wishes, an easy-to-use tool with advance directives and planning information, while supplies last.

Copies can be picked up at any of the Gulfside thrift shops.

There is a limit of one per person. Spanish versions are available by calling Gulfside Hospice.

For information, call Kirsty Churchill at (727) 845-5707, or email .

Lodge offers TOPS program
J.F. Swartsel Lodge, 3309 Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz, offers the TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) program every Wednesday.

Weigh-in is at 9 a.m., following by a meeting at 9:45 a.m.

For information, call Mary Clark at (813) 908-3587.

Celebrate Recovery from addictions
Victorious Life Church, 6224 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel, offers a Celebrate Recovery group on Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

The group is a recovery resource for healing from addictions. Participants will discuss hurts, hang-ups and habits.

For information, call (813) 973-2230.

Mending hearts through art
Gulfside Hospice recently hosted its Mending Hearts Family Night in Dade City to help teach children and parents ways to express their feelings of grief verbally and artistically. Children worked on painting their feelings on a memory wall, and families painted a family tree using their handprints for the leaves.

Loved ones remembered
Gulfside Hospice hosted a community memorial service Sept. 29 in Zephyrhills to honor loved ones who passed away on Gulfside’s services over the past year.

More than 100 names were read, each followed by the ringing of a bell.

Those in attendance were given a candle to light in memory of their loved ones.

To register, call (813) 991-7524.

Hospice remembrance service
HPH Hospice will have a nondenominational, interfaith service Nov. 6 at 6 p.m., at HPH’s East Pasco campus, 37445 Clinton Ave., in Dade City.

The 45-minute service will be under a canopy and will feature readings, music and tributes to individual loved ones. Veterans also will be honored.

For information, call (800) 486-8784.

Gulfside volunteer orientation
Gulfside Hospice is having a volunteer orientation for all new volunteers in East Pasco Nov. 6-7 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Gulfside’s Center for Hospice Care, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills.

Volunteers must be at least 15 years old.

Space is limited.

For reservations, call Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

Grief support at West Winds
Gulfside Hospice will offer a grief support group Nov. 11 at 2 p.m., at West Winds Assisted Living Facility, 37411 Eiland Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

There will be information on the four tasks of mourning and how they relate to the holiday season, as well as tips and techniques for handling holiday grief stress.

Light refreshments will be served.

For information, call Cecilio De Leon at (727) 992-8034.

Donate to remember loved ones
All Gulfside Hospice thrift shops are offering a way to honor or remember loved ones at the Hike for Hospice.

For a $1 donation, the name of a loved one will be written on a paper shoe. The shoes will be displayed in the thrift shops until the event, and then placed on a memory wall at the Hike for Hospice Nov. 16.

For information and shop locations, visit GHPPC.org.

Remembering residents of Gem Estates

October 30, 2014 By Mary Rathman

As the extreme summer heat is beginning to lessen, we here at Gem Estates are hearing some good news and some sad news about some of our residents.

Our prayer list is for Deannie Bennett, Helen Springer, Norma Monsulik’s daughter, Bonnie Whiten, George and Sylvia Held, Les Ott, Chuck and Joan Newland, Tom Greenwood, and Betty York.

Betty will be moving to Ohio and her address will be on the bulletin board at the clubhouse for those who would like to contact her.

We certainly wish everyone a speedy recovery.

We have lost three of our residents in the past few weeks — Jacob Frank, Dan Farnsworth and Billie Ann Packard. Our sympathies to their families, Karyn Frank, Carol Farnsworth and Vern Packard. We will miss them all.

Earl and Lois Sprague also gave us sad news about losing a 27-year-old grandson in Maine.

We were happy to see our vice president, Richard Burgess, and Dea-Ann back again to resume their duties officiating at our coffee socials.

A big thank you to Billy and Carolyn Mayer for hosting our summer coffee and doughnuts every Thursday. Making the coffee and ordering, plus picking up the doughnuts, might not seem a big deal. But when you have no idea how many people will show up to partake, it seems like always a worry: too much or not enough.

Our big news is the new addition to our clubhouse, giving us a lot more room for storage of our tables and chairs, bingo equipment, records, and leaving us enough room for a small meeting or two.

Residents with October birthdays are Mae Slipp and Frances Coon on Oct. 10, Paul Griffin and Gary Gibson on Oct. 11, Ray Moyer Oct. 13, Dee Neilson Oct. 20, and Betty Jo Kiger Oct. 27. Happy birthday to all.

For the past two months, I have been highlighting several people here in the park that have taken super trips — the Caseys’ trip to Hawaii, Caroline Wagoner’s trip to Alaska, and now this month I’ll highlight Neva Roy and her son Steve Miltroka’s trip sailing down the Main, Rhine and Danube rivers on a Viking River Cruise that runs through Germany, Austria and many more countries.

Traveling these rivers takes you past many old historic castles and churches that have withstood the sands of time and the ravages of wars as it winds its way to the Black Sea.

The first area they landed in was Amsterdam, Holland, a city rich with history, full of sights, with 90 island separated from each other by canals, and approximately 500 bridges. The most important means of transportation is the bicycle.

Neva ended up in a Cologne, Germany, hospital due to a fall and couldn’t get around to see all the fantastic sights, but the staff members on board made sure she was informed as to where they were and a television photographer gave her a rundown of locations and attractions.

The workmanship on the castles that withstood hundreds of years was so outstanding, she couldn’t pinpoint any one that was the most amazing.

One of the highlights she and son Steve enjoyed was the Weiner Hofburg Orchester program, a concert of Strauss and Mozart music, along with too many to mention.

Neva and Steve both told me the 15-day Viking River Cruise, with its sights and memories, is something that will last a lifetime.

About 30 people from the park are also excited and will be going on a cruise of their own to view the Panama Canal, Curacao, Aruba and Costa Rica in January. You are welcome to join us.

By Lee Heffelfinger

Published October 29, 2014

Health 10-22-14

October 23, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Lodge offers TOPS program
J.F. Swartsel Lodge, 3309 Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz, offers the TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) program every Wednesday.

Weigh-in is at 9 a.m., following by a meeting at 9:45 a.m.

For information, call Mary Clark at (813) 908-3587.

Pre-diabetes lecture
Access Health Care LLC, 5350 Spring Hill Drive in Spring Hill, will have a lecture on “Pre-Diabetes: Learn What This Means, If You Have the Problem, and What You Can Do to Prevent Diabetes” Oct. 23 at 5:15 p.m.

For information or to register, call (352) 688-8116.

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates will host breast cancer support group meetings every other Thursday at the New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is Oct. 23 at 6 p.m.

For information, call (727) 505-6379.

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
The Shops at Wiregrass and Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel will host the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Pasco event Oct. 25.

This is a non-competitive 5-kilometer walk of cancer survivors, families and friends, business partners and community members.

Registration will open at 8 a.m., and the walk begins at 9 a.m.

For information, visit MakingStridesWalk.org/Pasco.

Alzheimer’s seminar for caregivers
There will be a seminar called “Alzheimer’s Disease: What Family Caregivers Need to Know” Oct. 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Hyde Park United Methodist Church, 414 Magnolia Ave., in Tampa.

Topics will include diagnosis and treatment, participating in a clinical trial, tips to prevent or reduce behavior problems, and managing medications.

Lunch will be provided. Admission is free.

Pre-registration is required by calling (813) 974-4357.

Breast cancer discussion
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, will offer “The Nature and Treatment of Breast Cancer” Oct. 28 at noon.

Admission is free. Lunch will be provided.

To make a reservation, call (813) 929-5432, or visit FHWesleyChapel.org/events.

Hearing loss, deafness seminar
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will have a seminar called “A Surgical Option for Conductive Hearing Loss and Single-Sided Deafness” Oct. 29 at noon.

Topics include how our bodies hear and perceive sound, types of hearing loss and their causes, and surgically implantable devices.

Admission is free. A light lunch will be served.

For information or to register, call (727) 834-5630.

General cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates will host a general cancer group meeting Oct. 29 at 6 p.m., at the New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

For information, call (727) 808-4818.

Prepared childbirth course
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will offer a six-week prepared childbirth class starting Oct. 29.

Classes meet one night per week at 7 p.m. The cost is $70.

For information or to register, call (727) 834-5630.

Foundation to host Black & White Ball
The Suncoast Health and Education Foundation will host a Black & White Ball Nov. 1 at Aripeka Elks Lodge, 9135 Denton Ave., in Hudson.

A cocktail hour begins at 4 p.m., and dinner is at 5 p.m., followed by dancing.

Tickets are $20 per person available at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s lobby, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

There will be a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and Glamour Shots.

All proceeds will go to the foundation’s scholarship fund.

For information, call Barbara Benson at (727) 863-6437, or John Cardalena at (727) 967-1253.

Preview the new Florida Hospital ER
Florida Hospital Tampa, 3100 E. Fletcher Ave., will offer a look at its new state-of-the-art emergency room Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event includes guided tours, CPR and poison prevention education, entertainment, food trucks, door prizes and music.

Admission is free.

For information, visit FHTampa.org/NewER.

Donate to remember loved ones
All Gulfside Hospice thrift shops are offering a way to honor or remember your loved ones at the Hike for Hospice.

For a $1 donation, you can write the name of a loved one on a paper shoe. The shoes will be displayed in the thrift shops until the event, and then placed on a memory wall at the Hike for Hospice Nov. 16.

For information and shop locations, visit GHPPC.org.

Balance program for seniors
Anytime Fitness, 7016 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Lutz, is offering an Agility & Balance Program for seniors on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. For information, call Tom Marbell at (352) 409-2984, or email .

Celebrate Recovery from addictions
Victorious Life Church, 6224 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel, offers a Celebrate Recovery group on Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

The group is a recovery resource for healing from addictions. Participants will discuss hurts, hang-ups and habits.

For information, call (813) 973-2230.

Senior strength classes
The Groves Golf and Country Club, 7924 Melogold Circle in Land O’ Lakes, offers a Silver Sneakers Strength & Balance program on Wednesdays at 9 a.m.

These are low-impact classes to improve flexibility and balance.

Classes are free to Silver Sneakers members, and $5 for non-members.

For information, call Tom Marbell at (352) 409-2984, or email .

Oak Hill offers mammograms for uninsured
Oak Hill Hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville, offers digital mammography screenings for $60 to patients without health insurance.

The screening includes the imaging and the radiologist’s reading.

Patients do not need a prescription from a physician to schedule a screening.

For information, or to schedule an appointment, call (800) 921-7158.

Chalk Talk 10-15-14

October 16, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Learn more about Academy at the Lakes
Academy at the Lakes, 2331 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, is hosting ‘coffee and conversation’ groups for anyone interested in learning more about the school.

All sessions are from 10:30 a.m. to noon at these locations:

• Oct. 27, Seven Oaks Community Center, 2910 Sports Core Circle, in Wesley Chapel

• Nov. 3, The Lodge at Wilderness Lake Preserve, 21320 Wilderness Lake Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes

• Nov. 10, Grand Hampton Clubhouse, 8301 Dunham Station Drive in Tampa

For information, call Luci Ward at (813) 909-7919.

HCPS information sessions
Hillsborough County Public Schools will offer information sessions for its PATH program for teaching students with disabilities, and its SMART program for teaching science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Both sessions are Oct. 30 at 6 p.m., at CareerSource Tampa Bay, 9215 N. Florida Ave., Suite 101, in Tampa.

For information, call (813) 840-7032, or visit Path.mysdhc.org or Smart.mysdhc.org.

Bright Ideas STEM contest
Bright House Networks is looking for students in the Tampa Bay area who are at least 14 years old by Oct. 31, to enter its Bright Ideas STEM contest.

Using STEM — science, technology, engineering and math — students must dream up the coolest inventions to make life, the community, or even the world, a better place.

The contest ends at 9 p.m., Oct. 31. Online voting is Nov. 3-13, and judging will be Nov. 14-Dec. 5. Finalists will be announced Dec. 15.

The best ideas from each of six Bright House Networks service areas nationwide will compete head-to-head on TV in front of a studio audience in Orlando.

The winner will have a chance to work with a leading innovation firm to make his or her idea a reality.

Registration is free.

For details, visit BrightHouse.com/brightideas.

Bishop McLaughlin open house
Bishop McLaughlin Catholic School, 13651 Hays Road in Spring Hill, will host an open house Nov. 2 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

There will be family tours, and individuals can sign up for shadow dates.

Step-Up scholarships are accepted.

For information, call (727) 857-2600, or visit BMCHS.org.

Rigberg named Chef of the Year
Land O’ Lakes High School has announced that Chef Michael Rigberg was named Chapter Chef of the Year by the local ACF Tampa Bay Culinary Association.

The American Culinary Federation promotes the professional image of American chefs worldwide through education among culinarians at all levels, from apprentices to certified master chefs.

Rigberg has also been elected to chapter president with a two-year term beginning Oct. 15, 2014.

Rigberg’s local honor follows his July induction into the American Academy of Chefs. That ceremony took place at the American Culinary Federation National Convention in Kansas City, Missouri. It’s an honor bestowed to men and women who have distinguished themselves in the culinary arts.

September Citizens of the Month
The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce has congratulated the September Citizens of the Month.

The students selected were Gabriel Sabella, Academy at the Farm; Amiliah Isaac, East Pasco Adventist Academy; Catherine Beard, Saint Anthony School; Jesssenia Mahamud, Centennial Elementary; Stephanie Alejo, Lacoochee Elementary; Jayden Parsons, Pasco Elementary; Esmeralda Nunez, Cox Elementary; Michael Coats, San Antonio Elementary; Paige Miller, Centennial Middle; Rosa Cruz Madrid, Pasco Middle; Christopher Brand, James Irvin Education Center; Julian Lopez, Moore-Mickens Education Center; and Conner Harm, Pasco High.

ZHS class reunion
The Zephyrhills High School Class of 1974 will have its 40th reunion Oct. 17-18. For information, call Brenda Kendrick Downie at (863) 816-4798, or visit ZHSCLassof1974.weebly.com.

PHSC receives Special Contribution Award
Pasco-Hernando State College was honored with a Special Contribution Award at the Pasco Economic Development Council’s 28th Annual Industry of the Year Awards Banquet.

Pasco EDC recognizes local companies that exhibit exemplary growth in technology, innovation, job creation, capital investment and community service.

PHSC celebrated a record year in 2014 with the completion of construction of the Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch totaling $59.3 million in capital investment, and the announcement of offering four-year degrees.

National Manufacturing Day observed
As part of National Manufacturing Day, 3,000 students from 35 counties toured 95 high-tech manufacturing facilities across the state on Oct. 3.

Students in Pasco and Hernando counties toured 11 high-tech facilities in the region, including Accuform Signs, Aircraft Tooling and Design, Alumi-Guard, Cal-Maine Foods, Intrepid Machine, Mary Lame Wrought Iron, PharmaWorks, Seaway Plastics, Southeast Bottling Company, Topline Energy Systems and Huff Carbide Tools.

The tours offer students a chance to expand their knowledge about and learn about high-tech careers and opportunities associated with manufacturing.

Bikes serve as reading incentives
Gary Cucchi, owner of Horance Mann Insurance Agency, delivered bicycles to a number of schools, including Chester Taylor Elementary School in Zephyrhills, as part of a reading incentive program.

One boy and one girl from the school will be selected to receive a new bicycle in the second semester.

Taylor Elementary is just one of 15 Pasco County schools Cucchi delivered bikes to.

Library of Congress offers free interactive e-books
The Library of Congress is offering students a set of free interactive e-books for tablets.

The new Library of Congress Student Discovery Sets bring together historical artifacts and one-of-a-kind documents in a range of topics from history to science to literature.

Interactive tools let students zoom in for close examination, draw to highlight interesting details, and make notes about what they discover.

The first six Student Discovery Sets are available now for iPad, and can be downloaded for free on iBooks. These sets cover the U.S. Constitution, Symbols of the United States, Immigration, the Dust Bowl, the Harlem Renaissance, and Understanding the Cosmos.

For information, visit LOC.gov/teachers/student-discovery-sets/.

Health 10-15-14

October 16, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Lymphedema group meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will have a lymphedema support group meeting Oct. 16 at 3 p.m.

Lymphedema is a persistent swelling, usually affecting an arm or leg that sometimes occurs as a side effect of cancer treatment.

Seating is limited. For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Infant CPR class
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will offer a Family and Friends Infant CPR class Oct. 18 at 9 a.m.

Participants will learn the skills of the American Heart Association course for pediatric CPR.

The cost is $15 per person, or $25 for two.

For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Ostomy support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host an ostomy support group Oct. 22 at 5 p.m.

The meeting is open to all ostomy patients and their families. Walk-ins are welcome. For information, call (727) 834-4450.

Commissioners proclaim Mental Illness Awareness Week
The Pasco County Commissioners presented the National Alliance on Mental Illness Pasco County Affiliate with a resolution proclaiming Oct. 6-12 Mental Illness Awareness Week. NAMI Pasco bestowed awards to members of the community who have been instrumental with its mission during a banquet Oct. 9. Those attending the commission meeting where the proclamation was made were, from left, Commissioners Jack Mariano, Ted Schrader, Pat Mulieri and Kathryn Starkey, NAMI Pasco president Gloria Strother, Nancy Whitener, Commissioner Henry Wilson, Maryann Senderling and Nikki Drake.

For information or to register, call (352) 688-8116.

Alzheimer’s Caregiver Day
The Alzheimer’s Family Organization will host a Caregiver Day: What You Need to Know Oct. 27 from 10 am. to 2 p.m., at Venetian Gardens, 201 E. Dixie Ave., in Leesburg.

Guests speakers will be Dr. Kimberly Besuden, Betty Cunningham and Bill Maguire.

Cost is $10 for AFO members and $25 for non-members.

Refreshments, lunch and a certificate of attendance are included.

Seating is limited. To register by Oct. 20, call (727) 848-8888.

Hospice remembrance service
HPH Hospice will have a non-denominational, interfaith service Nov. 6 at 6 p.m., at HPH’s East Pasco campus, 37445 Clinton Ave., in Dade City. The 45-minute service will be under a canopy and will feature readings, music, and tributes to individual loved ones. Veterans will also be honored. For information, call (800) 486-8784.

Pregnancy Care Center’s ‘Run For Life’
“Run For Life” to benefit the Zephyrhills Pregnancy Care Center is scheduled for Nov. 22.

The event includes a 5-kilometer run, a 1-mile fun run, face painting, live music and a farmer’s market.

Registration forms can be picked up at the Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce, YMCA or Florida Hospital Wellness Center, by calling (813) 453-9042, by emailing , or online at PCCZephyrhills.org or Active.com.

Health 10-08-14

October 9, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Woman’s club delivers gifts for preemies
Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club recently visited the Florida Hospital Tampa Neonatal Intensive Care Unit bearing gifts for premature and challenged babies.

The club has been sewing year-round to provide fabric bags for the babies who graduate from this unit. These “first suitcases” are filled with caps, sweaters and other supplies for the babies.

Autism support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts the Helping HANDS autism support group on the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.

The next meeting is Oct. 8.

The group is for parents, family members and friends impacted by autism and related neurological disorders.

For information, call Jonica Chittum at (813) 402-9442, or email .

Cholesterol lecture
Access Health Care, 5350 Spring Hill Drive in Spring Hill, will have a lecture on “Cholesterol is Not the Enemy” Oct. 9 at 5:15 p.m.

For information, call (352) 688-8116.

NAMI hosts comedian
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Pasco will host an education and awards banquet Oct. 9 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Spartan Manor, 6121 Massachusetts Ave., in New Port Richey.

Dress is business casual. Dinner is at 7 p.m.

The keynote speaker is comedian Juanita Lolita, a finalist in Florida’s Funniest Comedian contest.

For tickets and sponsorships, call (727) 992-9653, or download forms at NamiPasco.org.

For information or to RSVP, call Nancy Whitener at (727) 375-5337.

Childbirth super-prep
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will offer a childbirth super-prep class Oct. 11 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This is a one-day accelerated/refresher course. The cost is $50 per person.

Registration is required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Oak Hill offers mammograms for uninsured
Oak Hill Hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville, is offering digital mammography screenings for $60 to patients without health insurance.

The screening includes the imaging and the radiologist’s reading.

Patients do not need a prescription from a physician to schedule a screening.

For information, or to schedule an appointment, call (800) 921-7158.

A Matter of Balance
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will offer A Matter of Balance class every Monday and Wednesday, starting Oct. 13 at 9 a.m., for four weeks.

Reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Caregiver’s support group
The Caregiver’s Support Group meets the first Wednesday of each month at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, to help those caring for loved ones afflicted with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

This free group meets at 11 a.m.

For information, call Phyllis Bross at (813) 996-1361, or email .

General cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates will offer a general cancer support group meeting every other Wednesday at the New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is Oct. 15 at 6 p.m.

For information, call (727) 808-4818.

Osteoarthritis lecture
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will have a seminar on “Current Treatments in Osteoarthritis” Oct. 16 at noon.

Dr. Peter Candelora, orthopedic surgeon, will discuss current treatments, including non-operative and operative care, and current thoughts for treatments using medications, injections and stem cell therapy.

He will also discuss operative interventions, such as minimally invasive, computer assisted and various surgical approaches.

Admission is free. A complimentary lunch will be served.

Reservations are required.

For information, (727) 834-5630.

John Skelton is September volunteer
Sertoma Speech & Hearing Foundation of Florida selected John Skelton as Volunteer of the Month for September.

Skelton is a Fellow of The Institute of Directors in London, England, and has served as chairman of the board for the foundation for the last six years.

Celebrate Recovery from addictions
Victorious Life Church, 6224 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel, will offer a Celebrate Recovery group on Mondays at 6:30 p.m.

The group is a recovery resource for healing from addictions and will discuss hurts, hang-ups and habits.

For information, call (813) 973-2230.

Chalk Talk 10-01-14

October 2, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Saint Leo Mud Endeavor V0
Saint Leo University Veteran Student Services are partnering with Mud Endeavor to sponsor Mud Endeavor V, an obstacle course race, Oct. 4 at 29251 Wildlife Lane in Brooksville.

All proceeds from those who preregister will benefit the school’s Veteran Student Services and Military Education Excellence.

Waves of participants will start with competitive runners at 9 a.m. Participants must be at least 13 years old.

Preregistration is $45, with promotional code STLEOVETS.

To register, visit MudEndeavor.webconnex.comme5.

For information, call Tedd Weiser at (352) 588-8234.

Monks create sand mandala for Peace Week
In celebration of Peace Week at Pasco-Hernando State College, Buddhist monks are constructing a sand mandala, which is a circle, in the third floor lobby at Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Visitors can view the creation Oct. 6-9 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Upon completion, Drupon Thinley Ningpo Rinpoche will offer a sand mandala teaching Oct. 9 at 3:30 p.m., followed by a dissolution ceremony to signify spreading kindness and compassion at 6 p.m.

There will also be a Peace Festival Oct. 9 from noon to 3:30 p.m.

For information, visit PHSC.edu/peace.

Academy at the Lakes info sessions
Academy at the Lakes, 2331 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, is hosting ‘coffee and conversation’ groups for anyone interested in learning more about the school.

All sessions are from 10:30 a.m. to noon at these locations:

• Oct. 6, Tampa Palms Swim Clubhouse, 16402 Tampa Palms Blvd., in New Tampa

• Oct. 27, Seven Oaks Community Center, 2910 Sports Core Circle, in Wesley Chapel

• Nov. 3, The Lodge at Wilderness Lake Preserve, 21320 Wilderness Lake Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes

• Nov. 10, Grand Hampton Clubhouse, 8301 Dunham Station Drive in Tampa

For information, call Luci Ward at (813) 909-7919.

Nursing info session at PHSC
Pasco-Hernando State College will host an information session on its new Bachelor of Science in nursing degree Oct. 7 at 7 p.m. at the West Campus, 10320 Ridge Road in New Port Richey.

The new online program provides additional management, leadership, theory and research training to licensed registered nurses holding an Associate in Science in nursing degree.

Admission is free but seating is limited. To RSVP, visit PHSC.edu/rsvp.

For more information, call (727) 816-3274.

Book fair at Denham Oaks
Denham Oaks Elementary School, 1422 Oak Grove Blvd., in Lutz, is having a Family Book Fair Night Oct. 9 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

For information, call (813) 794-1600.

Student video challenge
The Florida Coordinating Committee of the Informed Voters Project of the National Association of Women Judges is inviting all Florida residents, especially high school, college and law students, to participate in the 2014 Constitution Day Florida Video Challenge.

The challenge aims to allow participants to express their interest in the missions of the Informed Voters Project (IVP) through the creation of a short film.

Videos must be based on any or all of the following topics:

• The qualities that make a good judge

• What our legal system would be like if our judiciary was not fair and free

• The importance of an informed electorate in voting on judges

Participants can enter as individuals or in teams up to five people.

Submissions will be accepted through Oct. 17.

Viewing and voting will take place between Oct. 18-Nov. 17.

There is a $1,000 first place cash prize with recognition on the IVP website and lunch with Florida Supreme Court Justice Barbara Pariente.

Second place is a $500 cash prize.

Third place is a $100 cash prize.

For contest rules and to participate, visit Facebook.com/informedvotersproject.

For information on IVP, visit IVP.NAWJ.org.

Students recognized as National Merit scholars
Five Pasco County high school students in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area have been named as National Merit Scholarship semifinalists.

National Merit Scholarship Corporation officials recognized high school seniors with the highest scores on the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test who met published program participation requirements.

The local students are:

• Brendan Foley, Pasco High School

• Lisa Goldsworthy, Sunlake High School

• Veronica Grady, Land O’ Lakes High School

• Emily Suvannasankha, Land O’ Lakes High School

• Olivia Sunna, Wiregrass Ranch High School

Library of Congress offers free interactive e-books
The Library of Congress is offering students a set of free interactive e-books for tablets.

The new Library of Congress Student Discovery Sets bring together historical artifacts and one-of-a-kind documents in a range of topics from history to science to literature.

Interactive tools let students zoom in for close examination, draw to highlight interesting details, and make notes about what they discover.

For information, visit LOC.gov/teachers/student-discovery-sets/.

Health 10-01-14

October 2, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Celiac support group
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, hosts a monthly meeting of the West Pasco Celiac Support Group on the first Saturday of every month at 10 a.m.

The next meeting is Oct. 4 and includes recipe demonstrations of a gluten-free diet.

For information or to RSVP, call (727) 862-4815.

Hospice memorial service
Gulfside Hospice’s bereavement center will have a memorial service on Oct. 6 at 3 p.m. to honor and remember those who have passed away in the last year. The event will at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 8320 Old County Road 54 in New Port Richey.

Refreshments will be served. For information, call (727) 844-3946.

Lunch to discuss rheumatoid arthritis
CARES and Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point will host “Lunch with a Doctor” at CARES Rao Musunuru M.D. Enrichment Center, 12417 Clock Tower Parkway in Hudson, Oct. 8 at noon.

The guest speaker is Dr. Adam Grunbaum, rheumatologist.

Admission is free, but registration is required.

For information or to RSVP, call (727) 863-6868.

Autism support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts the Helping HANDS autism support group on the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.

The next meeting is Oct. 8.

The group is for parents, family members and friends impacted by autism and related neurological disorders.

For information, call Jonica Chittum at (813) 402-9442, or email ">.

Dress is business casual. Dinner is at 7 p.m.

The keynote speaker is comedian Juanita Lolita, a finalist in Florida’s Funniest Comedian contest.

For tickets and sponsorships, call (727) 992-9653, or download forms at NamiPasco.org.

For information or to RSVP, call Nancy Whitener at (727) 375-5337.

Oak Hill offers mammograms for uninsured
Oak Hill Hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville, is offering digital mammography screenings for $60 to patients without health insurance.

The screening includes the imaging and the radiologist’s reading.

Patients do not need a script from a physician to schedule a screening.

For information, or to schedule an appointment, call (800) 921-7158.

This free group meets at 11 a.m.

For information, call Phyllis Bross at (813) 996-1361, or email .

Gulfside Hospice unveils fountain to honor Lorraine Hadley
Gulfside Center for Hospice Care in Zephyrhills unveiled the Gulfside Ascending Doves Fountain in honor of Lorraine Hadley on her 89th birthday. Hadley started volunteering at Gulfside in 2006, after her husband became a hospice patient. She recently donated $100,000 to help Gulfside continue its mission. Hadley (seated) is shown with her own piece of the fountain, along with Gus PePietto. In the back row are sculptor Michael Hall, Rosemary Hall, fundraising manager Carla Armstrong, Gulfside president and CEO Linda Ward, and Dr. Daniel Heinig.

Sister Stroll 2.0
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will kick off the Pink Army breast cancer awareness campaign Oct. 2, on its front lawn.

Registration is at 5 p.m. The stroll begins at 5:30 p.m., with a ceremony to follow.

Participants can stroll along the walking trail and enjoy food and fun along the way.

Registered participants will receive a swag bag filled with pink goodies.

There will also be a car show, entertainment and door prizes.

Advance registration is $15 per person, or $20 at the event.

All proceeds benefit the Simpson Breast Health Center at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills.

To register, call (877) 534-3108, or visit FHZeph.org.

Family bereavement night
Gulfside Hospice will host a family bereavement night Oct. 2 at 6 p.m., at Gulfside’s East Clinical Office, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle in Dade City.

Children will work on decorating a memory graffiti wall, while bereavement counselors work with parents to give them information on children’s grief and coping techniques.

After the adult session, the families will get back together to work on a family tree.

For information, call (727) 844-3946.

Flu shots at Humana center
The Humana Guidance Center, 7920 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills, will offer flu shots Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Flu shots are free with proof of insurance. All insurance is accepted.

No pre-registration required. Walk-ins welcome.

For information, call (813) 870-7300.

Grief’s Journey bereavement group
HPH Hospice is offering an eight-week Grief’s Journey bereavement group on Tuesdays, Oct. 7-Nov. 25, at 2 p.m., for adults who have experienced the death of a loved one over the past six months.

The group will meet at the HPH Resource Center, 37441 Clinton Ave., in Dade City.

Admission is free. Registration is required by calling (800) 486-8784.

Women’s health seminar
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills’ Women’s Health Center, 7050 Gall Blvd., will have a “Her Health” seminar Oct. 9 at 5 p.m.

This women’s health event will include physician and expert talks, dinner and door prizes.

Admission is free; registration is required.

For information, call (877) 534-3108, or visit FHZeph.org.

Pregnancy Care Center ‘Run For Life’
“Run For Life” to benefit the Zephyrhills Pregnancy Care Center is scheduled for Nov. 22.

The event includes a 5-kilometer run, a 1-mile fun run, face painting, live music and a farmer’s market.

Runners, walkers and virtual runners who register by Oct. 10 will receive an event T-shirt.

Business sponsorships are also available until Oct. 10.

Health 09-24-14

September 25, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Regional Medical honors teens
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point recently honored its teen volunteers at a Teen Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and Awards Ceremony.

During the summer, 110 teens ages 14-18 volunteered in various service areas.

The Volunteer Association awarded four $2,000 scholarships to teens who volunteered at least 100 hours and had a 3.7 GPA or better.

The six Five-Star Volunteers of the Year were Steffany Contreras, Albi Hoxhallari, Meghan Hurley, Julia Melucci, Aakash Pajaby and Ivan Trotter.

Knee replacement lecture
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, is hosting a lecture on “Advances in Knee Replacement – the Uni” Sept. 25 at 3 p.m.

The guest speaker is Dr. Jared Salinsky.

Admission is free and refreshments will be served.

Seating is limited. For reservations, call (727) 869-5498.

Hike for Hospice kickoff party
Gulfside Hospice will host a Hike for Hospice kickoff party Sept. 25 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Rasmussen College, 18600 Fernview St., in Land O’ Lakes.

There will be door prizes, drawings and refreshments.

To RSVP, call Erin Labbe at (727) 845-5707, or email .

Surviving cancer seminar
Dr. Roberto Diaz from the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute will speak about surviving cancer Sept. 25 at 7 p.m., at Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54 in Lutz.

The program is free, and will cover new treatments for cancer, and allow for a question-and-answer period.

For information, call Walt Bockmiller, chair of the Keystone Cancer Support Group, at (813) 527-8211. Or call Keystone Community Church at (813) 948-4522.

Knee pain seminar
The Medical Center of Trinity is offering a seminar called “An Orthopedic Approach to Knee Pain” Sept. 26 at noon, at Seven Springs Golf & Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., in New Port Richey.

Guest speaker is Dr. Jennifer Cook on the topics of conservative and surgical care, and joint replacement surgery.

Admission is free. A complimentary lunch will be served.

Seating is limited. For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

‘Brain Wave Cap’ presentation
Dr. Emanuel Donchin will make a presentation called “Brain Computer Interfaces” Sept. 29 at 8 p.m., at Congregation Kol Ami, 3919 Moran Road in Tampa.

The event is to honor Dr. Scott Mackler, who died from ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) in 2013. Mackler worked as a professor at the University of Pennsylvania using Brain Computer Interface, or a “Brain Wave Cap.”

Reservations are required by emailing Alissa Gutierrez at .

Learn more about Medicare
The Groves Golf and Country Club, 7924 Melogold Circle in Land O’ Lakes, will host a free Medicare presentation Sept. 30 at 4 p.m.

Guest speaker will be Mike Lewis, a volunteer for the SHINE program in Pasco County.

The presentation will include a review on Medicare basics, and guests can get guidance from volunteer Medicare counselors.

Women’s cancer conference
Cypress Point Community Church, 15820 Morris Bridge Road in Tampa, is hosting a free women’s conference “Slaying Your Dragons: Christian Cancer Survivors’ Testimonies of Faith and Strength,” Sept. 27 from 9:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The event will include lunch and a chance to win tickets for the Women of Faith Conference Oct. 10-11.

To register online for attendance and food, visit CPCConline.com.

Chronic arthritis seminar
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, is offering a “Nutrition and Exercise Interventions for Arthritis” seminar Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m.

Topics include how to include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet, foods to limit that trigger joint pain, and how to keep joints strong through daily exercise.

The lecture is free for health center members, and $5 for non-members.

Space is limited and reservations are required.

For information, call (813) 929-5432.

Hand, arm pain discussion
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is having a seminar called “Hand and Arm Pain, Weakness and Numbness” Oct. 1 at noon.

Guest speaker is Dr. James Donovan, orthopedic surgeon.

Topics include signs, symptoms and current treatment options for hand arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other arm conditions.

Admission is free and a free lunch will be served.

Seating is limited and reservations are required.

For information or to RSVP, call (727) 834-5630.

Cancer support group
Florida Cancer Affiliates hosts a general cancer support group meeting every other Wednesday at the New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is Oct. 1 at 6 p.m.

For information, call (727) 808-4818.