Mary Rathman

Health 06-18-14

June 19, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Pharmacy celebrates expansion
Trinity Medical Pharmacy, the only dual-accredited compounding pharmacy in Florida, celebrated its newly expanded lab facility with a ribbon cutting and tours of the 12,000-square-foot facility. The pharmacy specializes in compounding medications for dermatology, migraines, oncology, orthopedics, pain, psoriasis and wound care. It is located at 9332 State Road 54 in Trinity.

Memory Care Village unveiling
The Commons on Pretty Pond, located at 38130 Pretty Pond Road in Zephyrhills, will host a public open house June 24 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The event will include the unveiling of Memory Care Village at The Commons, complete with tours and information regarding the newest addition to the campus. The village will provide care to patients with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other types of memory impairment.

To RSVP, call (813) 779-4501.

Cancer support at Keystone
Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes, hosts a cancer support group program with local doctors and hospital and clinic professionals.

Dr. Ghassan El Haddad will present “Cancer and the Treatment of It” June 19 at 7 p.m. Haddad is the section head for radionuclide therapy at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute.

For information, call Walt Bockmiller at (813) 527-8211, or the church at (813) 948-4522.

Huntington’s disease support
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group for anyone whose life is affected by Huntington’s disease.

The next meeting is June 19 at 6:30 p.m.

For information, call Nina Qualters at (727) 236-3578, or email .

Lymphedema support meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host monthly lymphedema support group meetings.

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

The next meeting is June 19 at 3 p.m.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Gulfside hosts educational bingo
Gulfside Hospice will host an educational bingo game June 25 at 11 a.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway.

The event will feature topics on the benefits of hospice care, myths about hospice care, the levels of hospice care, and advanced directives.

For information, call Jennifer Chianella at (727) 992-8984.

Ostomy support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host its support group meeting for all ostomy patients and families on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

The next meeting is June 25 at 5 p.m.

Meetings are guided by Billie Jo Bennett, certified wound care associate and ostomy management specialist.

For information, call (727) 834-4450.

Grand opening for medical education center
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point will have a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for its new Graduate Medical Education Center June 25 at 5 p.m., at 14108 Glacial Drive in Hudson.

There will be a reception, tours, and a white coat ceremony for the inaugural class of residents. The event is open to the public.

For information, or to RSVP, call (727) 869-5505.

Chalk Talk 06-11-14

June 12, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Students face off in first high school challenge
The Land O’ Lakes campus of Rasmussen College hosted its first High School Challenge in May, pitting students from Sunlake, Wesley Chapel and Mitchell high schools against each other. Koehler Macklus of Mitchell came back from a 2,400-point deficit, beating out his opponents to take home a $500 school donation and a Visa gift card.

Eighth-grader wins essay contest
Madeline Jones of Land O’ Lakes Christian School won the American Association of Christian Schools essay contest.

Students submitted entries on the topic “Life is Made Up of Moments.” Entries were judged on content, originality and communication of the piece.

Sarah Collins graduates magna cum laude
Sara Collins, a 2011 graduate of Sunlake High School, has graduated from the University of Tampa magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

At UT, Collins was a member of Phi Kappa Phi and Sigma Theta Tau honor societies, as well as a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success.

She is the daughter of Martin and Linda Collins.

PHSC career camps
Pasco-Hernando State College is offering two academic career-themed summer camps designed for middle and early high school students beginning in June.

The camps will be at the school’s New Port Richey campus, 10230 Ridge Road, and will run four half days from Monday through Thursday.

Business and Technology Careers — Participants can create a new business plan, participate in a mock trial from the viewpoint of a paralegal, and expand the virtual world by creating a miniature version of the Internet, among other activities.

Sessions run from June 23-26 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., or July 14-17 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cost is $90.

Health Careers — Participants can take on simulations and other hands-on activities related to the school’s paramedic, nursing, dental and radiography programs. They also can become CPR-certified.

Sessions run from June 16-19 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., or July 21-24 from 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $100.

Each session is limited to the first 12 students to register.

For information, visit PHSC.edu/summercamp, or call (727) 816-3256.

Field trip leaps youngsters into new school year
Great Start Learning Center’s voluntary pre-kindergarten class toured the campus of West Zephyrhills Elementary School May 5. The youngsters will enter kindergarten in August. The field trip gave the students a sense of what to expect in the coming year, and to familiarize themselves with the layout of the school. Great Start Learning Center is located at 5314 First Ave., in Zephyrhills.

Students bowled over with fun
The more than 900 students of Woodland Elementary School participated in special field trips to go bowling at Pin Chasers, 6816 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Chamber honors student citizens
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce recognized Student Citizens at a May ceremony in their honor.

Students are selected from 10 area schools for exemplary effort, achievement and contribution to their school, family and community.

Students recognized included Hayden Oley of East Pasco Adventist Academy, Mariana Chavez of Woodland Elementary School, Regan Yake of Stewart Middle School, Tabria James of Zephyrhills High School, Dashawn Walden of Stewart Middle, Karly Crews of Heritage Academy, Gideon Castorena of West Zephyrhills Elementary School, Tyler Brooks of The Broach School, Danny Pomorisac of Taylor Elementary School, and Caleb Salings of Florida Autism Center of Excellence.

Health 06-11-14

June 12, 2014 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point)

Blessed hands symbolize nursing commitment
The Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point nursing staff celebrate the ‘Blessing of the Hands’ by chaplain, the Rev. Jack Long, during a ceremony May 9. It symbolizes the nursing commitment to care, healing, and relief of pain and suffering. Janet Brown, director of the hospital’s Neuro Spine Unit, receives water from the chaplain’s chalice during the ceremony.

Sibling classes
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, offers monthly sibling classes.

The classes cover topics such as what a new baby looks like, how to become a big helper, and how to make friends with the new baby.

The next class is for children 2 to 6 years old on June 18 at 5 p.m.

The cost is $10 per child. For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Cancer support at Keystone
Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes, hosts a cancer support group program with local doctors and hospital and clinic professionals.

Dr. Ghassan El Haddad will present “Cancer and the Treatment of It” June 19 at 7 p.m. Haddad is the section head for radionuclide therapy at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute.

For information, call Walt Bockmiller at (813) 527-8211, or the church at (813) 948-4522.

Huntington’s disease support
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group for anyone whose life is affected by Huntington’s disease.

The next meeting is June 19 at 6:30 p.m.

For information, call Nina Qualters at (727) 236-3578, or email .

Free pregnancy care
LifeChoices Women’s Care, 1527 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Suite 101, in Lutz, offers free pregnancy testing and free limited obstetrical ultrasounds to teens, women and couples facing an unplanned pregnancy.

The center is open Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Appointments are recommended.

For information, call (813) 948-7734.

Lymphedema support meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host monthly lymphedema support group meetings.

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

The next meeting is June 19 at 3 p.m.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Rev. Jack Long receives humanitarian award
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has honored chaplain the Rev. Jack Long with its 2013 Frist Employee Humanitarian Award.

The award honors outstanding individuals whose daily dedication and caregiving epitomizes the highest standards of quality and personal commitment.

Regional Medical excels in patient safety
Hospital Safety score recently honored Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point with an “A” for patient safety.

The grade is compiled by how well hospitals protect patients from accidents, errors, injuries and infections.

The first and only hospital safety rating to be peer-reviewed in the Journal of Patient Safety, the score is designed to give consumers information they can use to protect themselves and their families when facing a hospital stay.

Food addicts program
Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meets at Seventh-day Adventist Church, 33420 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The program is based on the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous.

For information, visit FoodAddicts.org.

NAMI offers support
The Pasco County Chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness offers two monthly support group meetings at 7 p.m.

• Family & Friends Support Meetings: North Tampa Behavioral Health, 29910 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, first and third Tuesday of each month. This group is for family and friends of those with mental illness.

• NAMI Connections: NAMI Pasco Office, 6480 Jallo Plaza, 6480 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes, every Tuesday. This group is for those living with mental illness.

For information, call (727) 992-9653.

I Quit program at Florida Hospital
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., is offering the I Quit nicotine program June 12 at 5 p.m., in the hospital’s education room.

Topics include nicotine addiction and withdrawal, strategies to handle cravings, a free four-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy, and a referral for ongoing support after the class.

To register, call Jihane Ambroise at (813) 929-1000.

PHSC finishes fourth in first-ever World Series trip

June 12, 2014 By Mary Rathman

The Pasco-Hernando State College baseball team didn’t have a great start to the 2014 season.

It was a slow beginning in February by going 1-6. By the middle of March, the Conquistadors sat at 8-11 with no momentum and the season slipping away.

Sophomore Brennan Allen was one of the athletes whose play helped the Pasco-Hernando State College Conquistadors reach the World Series for the first time in school history. (Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College) — Sophomore Brennan Allen was one of the athletes whose play helped the Pasco-Hernando State College Conquistadors reach the World Series for the first time in school history.
(Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

So when longtime head coach Steve Winterling made vacation plans for the end of May, he assumed there would be nothing on his schedule.

“I didn’t have the World Series marked on my calendar book. I haven’t been there in 23 years, so why would I have it on there,” he said.

Big mistake, coach.

The team went on a 10-game winning streak and eventually qualified for the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II district tournament. The Conquistadors qualify for the tournament on a regular basis, but this time they did something they had never done before: They were the last team standing and qualified for the first World Series berth in school history.

Winterling was happy to cancel his vacation plans and lead his team to Enid, Oklahoma for the Division II World Series last month. PHSC came to play in that tournament as well, winning a couple of games before being eliminated by regular World Series participant Madison College. The Conquistadors finished their run in fourth place and with a feeling that their success was a total team effort.

“We just had some clutch players. Like I told the guys afterward, as hard as it was losing, everybody at one point in the season did something to help us win,” Winterling said. “We had some guys who would get that key hit. We didn’t have one guy that really carried us.”

Sophomore Brennan Allen is one of the players who earned a key hit when the team needed it. In the district tournament, Allen hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the eighth inning to erase a 4-2 deficit and tie the game against Wake Technical Community College. PHSC would go on to win. But after that play, they never doubted the outcome.

“At that point, everyone thought this was our game no matter what,” Allen said. “We had all the momentum.”

Allen batted .311 during the season (.378 with men in scoring position) and said the team always had talent, but needed to get past early-season struggles and play up to their potential. As he considers options for playing baseball farther into his college career, having a World Series appearance on his resume should help attract attention from potential schools, he said.

The trip to Oklahoma should help PHSC as well. Winterling said athletes who want to be part of the program already are contacting him, making his recruiting job a lot easier.

“People want to come to a program that’s been to the World Series or won a regional tournament because that’s what everybody plays for,” he said. “E-mail and phone calls have been pretty heavy.”

The tournament run concludes a year of firsts for the baseball program and the school. In addition to their first World Series berth, the team registered their first no-hitter when Danny Rodriguez, a Steinbrenner High School graduate, threw one back in March.

And when the school raises a banner for the team’s achievements, it will be the first at the school to read “Pasco-Hernando State College.” The school changed its name from Pasco-Hernando Community College in January.

Winterling, who was also named the school’s athletic director last year, isn’t the type of coach to take much credit for himself or dwell on previous successes. He’s proud of his players and what they accomplished, but he’s already back to work, with a showcase coming up and some players to sign.

For his part, Allen said he recognizes the district title and World Series run as something he and the other players won’t soon forget.

“Going from such a small school, not being known by many people and now putting them on the map, and finishing fourth in the nation, is going to a pretty awesome thing to look back on for the rest of our lives, really,” he said. “It was a great experience. It was a lot of fun, and I wouldn’t change anything.”

Published June 11, 2014

Health 06-04-14

June 5, 2014 By Mary Rathman

The center is open Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Appointments are recommended.

For information, call (813) 948-7734.

Smoking cessation program
The Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will offer a free smoking cessation program June 6 at noon.

Participants are eligible to receive up to four weeks of free nicotine replacement therapy, including gum patches and lozenges.

Registration is required.

For information, call (813) 929-1000, ext. 213.

Hospice teen camp
Gulfside Hospice is hosting its annual Mending Hearts Teen Camp June 6 and June 7 at Lakewood Retreat in Brooksville.

The camp focuses on providing a safe environment for teens dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Activities include a rope course, arts and crafts, and a balloon release.

For information, call (727) 844-3946, or (813) 780-1235.

Men’s health seminar
The Wellness Plaza at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2600 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., will host a men’s health seminar June 10.

There will be a heart health lecture at 10 a.m., a low testosterone lecture at 11:15 a.m., and an erectile dysfunction lecture at 12:30 p.m.

Registration is required, and space is limited. Lunch will be provided.

For information, call (813) 929-5432.

MS support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group the second Tuesday of each month for those afflicted with multiple sclerosis, along with their caregivers and family members.

The next meeting is June 10 at noon.

For information, call (727) 372-1568.

Atrial fibrillation lecture
The Heart Institute at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will host a free presentation on “Atrial Fibrillation: Treatment for Irregular Heart Rhythm” June 10 at 3 p.m.

Guest speakers are cardiac surgeon Dr. Michael Wahl and cardiac electrophysiologist Dr. Rajiva Goyal.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required. Refreshments will be served.

For information, call (727) 869-5498.

OLOR cancer network
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church Family Cancer Network meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month in Rosary Hall, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, beginning at 7 p.m.

Cancer survivors and caregivers are invited to attend.

For information, call (813) 949-4565.

Food addicts program
Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meets at Seventh-day Adventist Church, 33420 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The program is based on the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous.

For information, visit FoodAddicts.org.

NAMI offers support
The Pasco County Chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness offers two monthly support group meetings at 7 p.m.

• NAMI Connections: NAMI Pasco Office, 6480 Jallo Plaza, 6480 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes, every Tuesday. This group is for those living with mental illness.

For information, call (727) 992-9653.

Chalk Talk 05-28-14

May 29, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Round Up provides school break
Long Middle School students and faculty, along with family members and friends, took part in the school’s PTSA’s Round Up Carnival April 25. The event included mechanical bull rides, bungee jumping, hamster ball, laser tag, jousting, dancing, performances, dunk tank, games with prizes, and food.

Bergstrand receives women’s club merit award
Lexington Oaks Women’s Club president Susan Bergstrand, left, recently awarded Alexis Daubney, a Lexington Oaks resident and Land O’ Lakes High School student, a merit award of $500 for college.

Students ‘Go for the Gold’ at WCES
Wesley Chapel Elementary School recently rewarded students for meeting their “Go for the Gold” challenge with an i-Ready celebration May 16.

i-Ready is an online instructional program that delivers lessons at each student’s learning level. The eight-week challenge was for students to dedicate time to completing lessons at their i-Ready level.

The entire third grade won overall with a total of 1,510 reading lessons completed in eight weeks.

Christian homeschool education
Classical Conversations will host a parent practicum for those considering homeschooling and classical Christian education.

The three-day practicum is May 28-30 at Idlewild Church of Odessa, 1234 Gunn Highway.

Sessions run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests should bring a picnic lunch.

For information, email .

Teacher appreciation
The Tampa Museum of Art hosted an appreciation event for teachers of at-risk students May 7 during National Teacher Appreciation Week.

More than 65 teachers and support staff with Project PROMISE — Programs Offering Mentoring, Intervention Services, and Educational support — were recognized.

The program supports approximately 1,800 neglected, delinquent or at-risk youth, as well as students with at-risk characteristics enrolled in traditional and alternative schools.

Shrewsbury chosen for education summit
Christopher Shrewsbury, a sophomore at Sunlake High School, has been selected to participate in the National Rifle Association’s annual National Youth Education Summit in Washington, D.C., for outstanding high school sophomores and juniors.

Shrewsbury is a member of the National Honor Society, the incoming treasurer of the Sunlake High School Key Club, and the captain of the varsity cross-country team.

He is an active member of the NRA, the National Sporting Clays Association, and has qualified as an expert rifleman on the U.S. Army Marksmanship rifle course.

The youth summit was launched in 1996 as an effort to encourage young people to become active and knowledgeable at both national and local levels.

CPA students sought for scholarship
The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation is looking for minority accounting students across the state to apply for the Clay Ford scholarship.

It is awarded each year to minority students looking to become certified public accountants. The program has awarded more than $1 million since it was first implemented in 1999.

A $10 portion from each individual and firm license fee funds the scholarship. Applicants may be eligible for scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 per semester, awarded for a maximum of two semesters.

Applications must be postmarked by June 1.

For information, visit MyFloridaLicense.com/CPAScholarship.

Kindergarten camp
Double Branch Elementary School, 31500 Chancey Road in Wesley Chapel, will host a kindergarten camp July 29-31 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Incoming kindergarteners will have an opportunity to meet teachers and become familiar with the school.

Cost is $40.

For information, call (813) 346-0402.

Tampa Catholic reunion
The Tampa Catholic High School Class of 1974 will celebrate its 40th reunion Aug. 22-24 at Tradewinds Island Resort in St. Pete Beach.

For information, call Robin Rogers Nasco at (813) 390-0257, or email .

Health 05-28-14

May 29, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Alzheimer’s caregiver seminar
The Alzheimer’s Association will host its free “Caregiver Stress: Taking Care of You” seminar May 29 at 7 p.m., at Arden Courts Memory Care Community, 14950 Casey Road in Tampa.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (813) 963-6100.

‘Start Your Engines’ in Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host the community event called “Start Your Engines” May 31 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

In addition to classic cars and model airplanes, there will be educational stations on heart and vascular, cancer, back pain, knee and hip pain, gall bladder, rehabilitative services, wound care and women’s imaging services.

Boxed lunches will be available for $3.

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

Gulfside caregiver seminar
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care will host a seminar on end-of-life planning, caregiver tips and resources June 4 at 9 a.m.

This is a free seminar at Michels & Lundquist funeral home, 5228 Trouble Creek Road in New Port Richey.

Lunch will be served, but seating is limited.

For information, call Brenda Browne at (727) 484-7933.

Free health seminar
Samantha Taylor of Pure Health Studios, 2206 Knight Road in Land O’ Lakes, is hosting a free seminar called “How to Get Rid of Cravings and Balance Your Hunger” May 31 at 11 a.m.

To RSVP, visit PureHealthStudios.com.

Medical center receives AHA award
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has received the Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Quality Achievement Award from the American Heart Association and America Stroke Association.

The award recognizes the center’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care by ensuring that stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally accepted guidelines.

This is the seventh consecutive year Bayonet Point has been recognized with a quality achievement award.

Access Health Care stroke lecture
Access Health Care, 5350 Spring Hill Drive in Spring Hill, will host a stroke lecture June 5 at 5:15 p.m.

Dr. Maria Scunziano-Singh will cover the signs of impending catastrophic brain injury.

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

Gulfside memorial service
Gulfside Hospice is hosting a community memorial service May 30 at 3 p.m., at East Pasco Seventh-day Adventist Church, 7333 Dairy Road in Zephyrhills.

There will be refreshments after the service.

For information, call (727) 844-3946.

Men’s health seminar
The Wellness Plaza at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2600 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., will host a free men’s health seminar June 10 starting at 10 a.m.

There will be a heart health lecture at 10 a.m., a lecture on low testosterone at 11:15 a.m., and a lecture on erectile dysfunction at 12:30 p.m.

Registration is required. Lunch will be provided.

For information, call (813) 929-5432.

Community Health Fair
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, C1 Bank and Elks USA will host their Community Health Fair June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Elks Lodge 2731, located at 6851 Wire Road in Zephyrhills.

The event will feature free health screenings, health and wellness education, door prizes, and a low-cost lunch.

Fashion show fundraiser
The Alzheimer’s Family Organization will host its annual Alberta’s Fashion Show at Heritage Springs Country Club, 11345 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity, June 17 at noon.

The event includes lunch, a Chinese auction, door prizes, vendor tables and raffles.

Cost is $30 per person, with discounts for table purchases. Sponsorships are available starting at $75.

All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Family Organization.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/AlbertaFashion.

Hospital needs volunteers
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills is looking for volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including transporting patients to and from tests, driving the shuttle, distributing mail, cafeteria, clerical and administrative, and more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

There is a minimum requirement of four volunteer hours per week.

Volunteers receive a complimentary meal in the café on the days they work, and recognition at the annual volunteer banquet. Orientation sessions are twice a month.

If interested, applications are available online at FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills, or by calling (813) 779-6256.

Health 05-21-14

May 23, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Gulfside Hospice honors its volunteers
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care’s volunteer department showed its appreciation for its volunteers at three picnics during National Volunteer Week. Representing the department were, from left, Central Pasco volunteer manager Jennifer Ball, volunteer services director Kelly Milner, West Pasco volunteer manager Kathie Poole and East Pasco volunteer manager Tracey Thompson.

Johnson joins North Tampa Behavioral Health
Dr. Tonja Johnson has joined North Tampa Behavioral Health’s medical staff.

Johnson is board certified in psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology.

She attended medical school at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City, Tennessee, before relocating to complete her internship and residency at the University of South Florida.

Health insurance services
Premier Community HealthCare is offering outreach and enrollment services for those that need help with Access, Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Plan applications.

There will be a head start/early enrollment event May 28 from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the District School Board Complex, Portable 23, 20425 Gator Lane in Land O’ Lakes.

For information, call (352) 518-2000, ext. 9238.

Uninsured and homeless health care
Pasco County residents that are uninsured and/or homeless can receive basic health care on the Mobile Medical Unit, provided by Pasco County Public Defender Bob Dillinger, at no charge.

The unit will be at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, May 29 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For information, visit WeareTheHope.org.

Ostomy support
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group for ostomy patients and their families on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 5 p.m.

The next meeting is May 28. Walk-ins are welcome.

For information, call (727) 834-4450.

Chalk Talk 05-14-14

May 15, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Special delivery for special needs studentsGFWC Lutz- Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club member Hazel Robles hand-delivered Easter baskets to the autism class at Pizzo Elementary School in Tampa, and spent the day visiting with and reading to the children. The baskets were filled with items such as plastic eggs, bunnies, coloring books, markers, bubbles and art supplies provided by the woman’s club.

Home-schooler helps ‘make change’
Maximus Karafilis, 9, from Land O’ Lakes, participated in his first fundraiser May 3 at the Children’s Gala at the Museum of Science & Industry, raising $248.11.

Children were given piggy banks to “collect change to make a change,” raising money to send 400 children to MOSI’s summer camps.

Karafilis takes home-school classes at MOSI, and also attends a science class and a math club there.

WRHS PTSA meets
The Wiregrass Ranch High School PTSA will meet May 22 at 5:15 p.m., in the cafeteria, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel.

Senior night awards will follow the meeting in the gym at 6 p.m.

Honor Day for African-American students
Citizens Concerned for Students will recognize public middle and high school African-American students that have earned the honor roll at least once during the current school year at an honor day ceremony May 24 at 5 p.m. It will take place at the Pasco Schools Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel, 30651 Wells Road.

There also will be a college and career fair at 3:30 p.m., in the adjacent Wesley Chapel High School gym.

Both the awards ceremony and the fair are open to the public.

For information, visit HonorDayPasco.org.

Corbett Prep open house
Corbett Preparatory School of IDS, 12015 Orange Grove Drive in Tampa, will host an early admissions open house May 28 at 8:30 a.m.

Prospective parents can learn about the early primary program, including goals, academics, special traditions, and daily routines.

For information and to RSVP, call (813) 961-3087.

Cadets commissioned at Saint Leo
Seven graduating students from Saint Leo University’s ROTC program at University Campus were recently commissioned as second lieutenants into the U.S. Army. The new Army officers are, from left, 2^nd Lt. Travis Bush, 2^nd Lt. Gabriel Keown Jr., 2^nd Lt. Christopher Gonzalez, 2^nd Lt. Christopher Swonger, 2^nd Lt. John Crawford, 2^nd Lt. Matthew Weidner and 2^nd Lt. Anthony Trick.

Former Laker editor nets teaching award
Joe Humphrey, a 10-year teacher who advises Hillsborough High School’s yearbook, newspaper, broadcast and online news programs, was named Morty Schaap Teacher of the Year at the Florida Scholastic Press Association’s 2014 state convention in Orlando.

Humphrey completed two terms as president of FSPA last year, and currently serves as its evaluations/critique services coordinator.

Before becoming a high school teacher and adjunct professor at the University of Tampa, Humphrey was a reporter for the Florida Times-Union and The Tampa Tribune. He also was editor of Community News Publications, which included The Laker and Lutz News.

‘Bee Bully-Free’ in Zephyrhills
Zephyrhills area schools are encouraging students, teachers and staff to wear black and yellow on the last Friday of each month as part of the “Bee Bully-Free” Initiative. The initiative provides stickers and coloring book pages for schools that request them, participates in the Great American Teach-in, and provides certificates and awards for students who transform from bullies into kinder versions of themselves.

The last “Bee Bully-Free” day is May 30.

For information, visit Facebook.com/beebullyfree.

Kindergarten camp
Double Branch Elementary, 31500 Chancey Road in Wesley Chapel, will host a kindergarten camp July 29-31 from 9 a.m. to noon.

Incoming kindergarteners can meet teachers and become familiar with the school.

Cost is $40.

For information, call (813) 346-0402.

Tampa Catholic reunion
The Tampa Catholic High School Class of 1974 will celebrate its 40th reunion Aug. 22-24 at Tradewinds Island Resort in St. Pete Beach.

For information, call Robin Rogers Nasco at (813) 390-0257, or email .

CPA students sought for scholarship
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation is looking for minority accounting students across the state to apply for the Clay Ford scholarship.

It is awarded each year to minority students looking to become certified public accountants. The program has awarded more than $1 million since it was first implemented in 1999.

Applications must be postmarked by June 1.

For information, visit MyFloridaLicense.com/CPAScholarship.

Health 05-14-14

May 15, 2014 By Mary Rathman

Asaro and D’Amario are volunteers of the year
Dominc Asaro and Collen D’Amario have been named the Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s 2013 Volunteers of the Year. Asaro has more than 10 years of service and 12,750 hours of dedication. D’Amario joined the volunteers in 2009 and has more than 16,000 hours of service.

There will be an information table at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, on Thursdays in May from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The information also is available at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For information, call (352) 518-2000, ext. 9238.

Walk for mental health
Dressing Angels Inc., is hosting its Walk for Mental Health Awareness at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive in Wesley Chapel, May 17 beginning at 9 a.m.

The Dressing Angels charity provides clothing and shoes to mentally ill and homeless children and adults.

Registration begins at 8 a.m., near the Dillard’s parking lot. There will be refreshments and snacks.

Registration is $10 for ages 14 and older, and $5 for children ages 5 through 13.

For information, call Phyllis Lise at (813) 498-7967, or email .

Gulfside memorial services
Gulfside Hospice is hosting a memorial service May 19 at 3 p.m., at Trinity Presbyterian Church of Seven Springs, 4651 Little Road in New Port Richey.

The service is for anyone to remember loved ones who have passed away.

There will be refreshments after the service.

For information, call Gulfside’s bereavement department at (727) 844-3946.

Diabetic travel tips
Access Health Care, 4270 Lake in the Woods Drive in Spring Hill, is offering a lecture called “Travel Tips for Diabetics” May 19 at 1 p.m.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (352) 597-7249.

Parkinson’s support
The Tampa area Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will meet May 21 at the Church of the Nazarene, 5902 N. Himes Ave., in Tampa.

There will be a general meeting at 1 p.m., and those with Parkinson’s will meet separate from caregivers at 2 p.m.

Light refreshments will be served.

For information, call Jane Lowry at (813) 932-6902.

Gulfside Hospice honors its volunteers
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care’s volunteer department showed its appreciation for its volunteers at three picnics during National Volunteer Week. Gisele Connor, left, and Jeanette Tatro were among the Gulfside Hospice volunteers who were celebrated at the East Pasco Volunteer Appreciation picnic at Zephyr Park during National Volunteer’s Week April 6-12. (Courtesy of Kirsty Churchill)

Free support groups at Florida Hospital
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., offers the following monthly support groups:

Depression/Bipolar Support Group: every Monday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Stroke Support Group: every third Thursday, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Diabetes Support Group: every first Tuesday, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Parkinson’s Support Group: every second Wednesday, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

No registration is required.

For information, call (877) 534-3108.

Silver award for Bayfront Health Dade City
Bayfront Health Dade City has received the Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Silver Quality Achievement Award for implementing specific quality improvement measures outlined by the American Heart/Stroke Association for the treatment of stroke patients.

The hospital earned the award by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients at a set level for a designated period.

These measures include proper use of medications and aggressive risk-reduction therapies aimed at reducing death and disability, and improving the lives of stroke patients.

Men’s health seminar
The Wellness Plaza at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2600 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., will host a free men’s health seminar June 10 at 10 a.m.

There will be a heart health lecture at 10 a.m., a lecture on low testosterone at 11:15 a.m., and a lecture on erectile dysfunction at 12:30 p.m.

Registration is required. Lunch will be provided.

For information, call (813) 929-5432.

Community Health Fair
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, C1 Bank and Elks USA will host their Community Health Fair June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Elks Lodge 2731, 6851 Wire Road in Zephyrhills.

The event will feature free health screenings, health and wellness education, door prizes, and a low-cost lunch.

The event includes lunch, a Chinese auction, door prizes, vendor tables and raffles.

Cost is $30 per person, with discounts for table purchases. Sponsorships are available starting at $75.

All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Family Organization.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/AlbertaFashion.

CARES programs
CARES Enrichment Center, 13906 Fifth St., in Dade City, offers these activities:

Adult Day Care: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participants receive breakfast, lunch and a snack, along with organized activities. The program provides social and health services to adults who need supervision in a safe place outside the home. Reservations are required, and veterans are accepted. For costs and available funding, call (352) 519-9300.
Senior Moments Early Memory Loss Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For reservations or information, call (352) 518-9300.

There is a minimum requirement of four volunteer hours per week.

Volunteers receive a complimentary meal in the café on the days they work, and recognition at the annual volunteer banquet. Orientation sessions are twice a month.

If interested, applications are available online at FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills, or by calling (813) 779-6256.

Support for stroke patients
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills has a stroke support group that meets the third Thursday of every month at 3 p.m. The group offers support to stroke patients and their caregivers.

The meetings are in the hospital’s wellness conference room at the hospital, 7050 U.S. 301, in Zephyrhills.

For information, visit FHZeph.org.

Volunteer at Bayfront Health
Bayfront Health Dade City, 13100 Fort King Road in Dade City, is looking for energetic men and women to join its volunteer team, including junior volunteers between the ages of 14 and 18.

Opportunities are available in both clinical and nonclinical areas of the hospital.

To learn more about the program, call Amy Fort at (352) 521-1195.