The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Land O’ Lakes church gets new pastor

By

(Courtesy of The Land O’ Lakes Church of God)

The Land O’ Lakes Church of God has welcomed Rick and Wanice Fowler as the church’s new pastoral team. The Fowlers are both graduates of Pasco High School and continued their education at Lee University, according to a news release. They have previously pastored in New York, Kentucky, Illinois and Florida. The couple has three children and four grandchildren. They invite all to the Land O’ Lakes Church of God, at 8337 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The Laker/Lutz News hauls in 12 statewide awards

By

The Laker/Lutz News recently received 12 statewide honors, including five first-place awards during the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper competition.

Mike Camunas, staff writer and photographer for the newspaper, received 10 of those awards, including four first-place honors.

This photograph, shot by Mike Camunas for The Laker/Lutz News, was deemed the top feature photo in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper contest. The awards were for work published in 2022. (File)

B.C. Manion, editor of the newspaper, won first place in one category and third place, in another.

The stories and photographs receiving honors covered a broad range of topics.

They were singled out for recognition from more than 1,500 entries submitted by 57 weekly newspapers across Florida. The Laker/Lutz News competes in the largest circulation division in the contest.

Judges for the competition included experienced editors and publishers from California, Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and Washington.

Here are the contest results for work published in The Laker/Lutz News during 2022.

First place:
Education News: “Zephyrhills High ushers in a brand new look”: Mike Camunas
Faith & Family Reporting: “A smokin’ roadside attraction”: Mike Camunas
Agricultural & Environmental Reporting: “Banded together, for the birds” and “A glowing good time”: Mike Camunas
Feature Photo: “Senior prom”: Mike Camunas
Sports Feature Story: “Champions in cheerleading, and in life”: B.C. Manion

Second place
Portfolio Photography (Robert J. Ellison Memorial Award) : Mike Camunas
Education Feature: “Students soar, in this Sunlake program”: Mike Camunas
Faith & Family Reporting: “First family moves into new village”: Mike Camunas

Third Place
Hurricane Feature Story: “Pitching in to help victims of Hurricane Ian”: Mike Camunas
Sports Photo: Mike Camunas
Sports Page or Section: Mike Camunas
Community History: “Women Trailblazers: They helped carve a path for others”: B.C. Manion

Published August 02, 2023

These girls were part of the South Pasco Predators Pee Wee cheer team, who were the subject of a story by B.C. Manion that was selected as the best sports feature story in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest awards. Shown here are, front base: Lily Kate Paban, Emily Kunze, Payton Lawler, Akilah Polanco, Leah Garner, Ella Cole, Kailynn Fuqua and Isabella Wilson; flyers: Sarah Nubel, Brielle Jordan, Lilianna Haywood, Cora Parks and Kaitlyn Edwards.
Learning Gate Community School first-graders Norianna Marquez, left, and Ava DiPallo closely examine an indigo bunting that environmental resource teacher Jim McGinity just banded and soon will release. Mike Camunas, the writer and photographer on this story, received first place in agricultural and environmental writing in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest.
Zephyrhills High underwent a two-year, $33-million renovation, which included redesigning the common area to make it more spacious and to provide a prominent location for the school’s massive trophy case. Mike Camunas, the writer and photographer for this story, received a first place award in the education news category of the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest.

Clinton Avenue repaving in Dade City delayed

By

(Mike Camunas)

The repaving project of Clinton Avenue in Dade City has been delayed indefinitely, according to a news release from Pasco County.

The pavement rehabilitation project had been set to begin July 28, with crews resurfacing the existing roadway and adding new pavement markings.

The county sent out a news release on July 26 saying a new completion date has not been determined.

The segment of Clinton Avenue under construction runs from U.S. Highway 301 to Old Lakeland Highway – in both directions.

When the project does resume, the county said to expect minor delays.

Work hours on the project will be Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

County officials also said to expect single-lane closures with message boards directing traffic during the weeks-long project, depending on weather conditions.

Published August 02, 2023

Healthy substitutions can make for a healthier you

By

The standard American diet consists primarily of fried foods, dairy products, packaged foods and sweetened beverages. 

These foods also contain high amounts of refined sugars, sodium and saturated fats. 

The 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee has researched this and reports that this diet can contribute to obesity, heart disease, diabetes and other harmful effects to health.

But choices we make can make a difference.

Here are some ways to make substitutions, which can be made gradually, to achieve long-lasting results and help you along the path to a healthier you:

Limit refined sugar
Carbohydrates, or carbs, are the body’s primary source of fuel. They come in different forms: Fiber, starch and sugar.

And, it’s important to pay attention to the kinds of carbs you consume.

Here are some suggestions to help you make better choices:

  • Choose whole-grain bread over white bread (Whole grain is high in fiber, which is good for gut and digestive health.)
  • Fruits and vegetables are carbs that provide natural sugar and fiber.
  • Cinnamon can add sweetness to dishes, without adding sugar.
  • Instead of sugary drinks, opt for water or unsweetened tea.

Reduce intake of sodium and sugar
Reducing your intake of sodium and sugar can yield significant health benefits. 

Be mindful of the sodium in the foods you eat.

Our sodium intake goes far beyond adding salt to the foods on our plate. Be sure to pay attention to the sodium contained in the packaged and prepared foods we consume.

If you track your meals, pay attention to how much came from a box, can or package. 

Reducing sodium and sugar in your diet can be achieved by cooking most of our foods and incorporating more herbs and spices into the recipe, according to Sharon Solomon, who is a registered dietitian.

By doing that, you can enjoy delicious and flavorful meals — while watching out for your health.

Here are some helpful suggestions:

  • Read food labels.
  • Choose “low sodium” food products.
  • Eat at home more often and prepare your meals yourself.

When possible,  cook in bulk and freeze the extra for easy meals later when you are short on time.

  • Try using a blend of rosemary, thyme and oregano instead of salt to season meat. (As a bonus, herbs and spices have anti-inflammatory properties and contain an array of vitamins and minerals, providing a nutrient boost to your meal.)
  • If adding salt, do so at the end of the cooking process and season to taste. (After seasoning with fresh or dried herbs and spices, you may discover you don’t need salt, or as much salt as you thought.)
One way to reduce the fat in your diet is to add more meatless meals throughout the week, such as black bean burgers. Please see the recipe accompanying this column, so you can prepare some for yourself. (Pixabay.com)

Choose healthy fats
It’s important to keep in mind that while some fats can harm our health, others are essential for a healthy diet.

Just remember: Not all fats are created equal.

The USDA says to choose healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, avocados and salmon. 

These foods are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

Here are some ways to decrease fat, without sacrificing flavor:

  • Make instant oatmeal or chill overnight oats with fresh fruit and nuts instead of having a processed muffin for breakfast.
  • Choose a baked or grilled entree rather than a deep-fried option when eating out.
  • Ask for salsa or hot sauce for additional flavor without the added fat.
  • Swap out red meat for leaner protein sources like chicken or fish. (You can also opt for a vegetarian meal, when planning your weekly meals.)
  • Try using avocado or hummus on your toast, or top it with seeds and herbs.
  • Prepare snacks of fresh fruits and vegetables instead of  processed snacks, like chips or crackers.  

Portion Sizes
Monitoring portion sizes can help ensure we are filling up on nutrient-dense foods rather than overindulging on discretionary calories. 

Here are some tips to consider when getting ready for a meal or snack:

  • When serving food, use smaller plates to help control portion sizes.
  • Have a snack if you are hungry in between meals. (Choose items from at least two different food groups, such an apple and nut butter. Remember: If you starve yourself between meals you are more likely to eat too much at mealtime.)
  • When dining out, order the lunch-size portion or share with a companion.

Additionally, it’s important to have a plan for handling setbacks. 

No one is perfect, and it’s normal to have setbacks from time to time. 

Instead of getting discouraged, use setbacks as an opportunity to gain experience and grow. Reflect on what caused the setback and come up with a plan for how to avoid it in the future. Remember, making small changes over time can lead to significant results. 

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County.

Pasco County Extension Intern Syreeta McDonald, contributed to this column .

Recipe
Black Bean Burgers (Courtesy of MyPlate.gov)

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15.5 oz) low-sodium black beans (drained and rinsed with cold water)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 2 scallions (green and white minced about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (or basil leaves or a combination)
  • 1 clove garlic (peeled and minced)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or basil
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 whole-wheat buns

Directions

  • Place beans in a bowl and mash with a fork until chunky.
  • Add the egg and mix well.
  • Add the precooked rice, the scallions, garlic and oregano, salt and pepper.
  • Mix until well combined.
  • Divide the mixture into four portions and form each portion into a patty, about 3/4- to 1-inch thick.
  • Place large skillet on the stove on high heat.
  • When the skillet is hot, add oil.
  • Add the black bean burgers and cook 4 minutes to 5 minutes on each side, until both sides are browned and heated through.

Note: You can use old-fashioned rolled oats, leftover cooked barley or Panko breadcrumbs instead of prepared rice. Serve with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, guacamole, salsa, low-fat cheese or low-fat yogurt.

Published August 02, 2023

Hillsborough seeks members for diversity council

By

The Hillsborough County Commission is seeking applicants for its Diversity Advisory Council.

The board is seeking applicants from these categories: African American (1); Caribbean (1); Far East Asian (1); Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender (2); Indian Asian (1); Middle Eastern (1); Native American (1); and Northern and Southern European (2).

All nominees must reside in and be registered voters in Hillsborough County.  This is a voluntary position, so does not include any compensation.

Those interested in applying must submit:

  • An essay of 200-500 words highlighting what your goals would be as a member of the Diversity Advisory Council and state why you are most suited to carry forth those goals.
  • A completed questionnaire for Diversity Advisory Council
  • A Standards of Conduct Form.  

The board meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Forms are available on the County’s website, at HCFLGov.net. To download a form, click on the following tabs/links: “Government”, “Boards and Committees Forms”. The forms can be filled out and printed, then scanned and emailed, faxed, or mailed.

All forms must be signed and dated, and all questions must be answered in entirety to be eligible.

Applicants declining to submit an essay will be eliminated from further consideration for service on the Diversity Advisory Council of Hillsborough County.

Applications are due by the close of business on Aug. 17.

Appointments are scheduled at Hillsborough County board meeting in September or October.

Forms can be mailed to: P. O. Box 1110, Tampa, Florida, 33601; faxed to 813-239-3916; or emailed to

They also can be personally delivered to the second floor of 601 E. Kennedy Blvd., in downtown Tampa.

Published August 02, 2023

Capturing ‘A Sense of Place’

By

We’ve all seen images that help tell the story of the place we live.

It might be a glorious sunrise on the horizon, or moonlight glowing on a lake.

Perhaps it’s a picturesque country road or a mist rising over a field.

Beauty can take on many forms, including that of a rusted-out tow truck like this one, spotted along U.S. 41 in the northern part of Land O’ Lakes. (Mike Camunas)

It could be a piece of farm equipment at rest behind freshly plowed ground, or a colorful display of fruits and veggies at a roadside stand.

If you’re a reader of The Laker/Lutz News, you’re likely familiar with our popular local wildlife feature.

Our new photography feature, “A Sense of Place,” is launching now.

It is intended to give photographers an opportunity to show off their skills in a broader context, while our readers benefit from the quality of images they capture.

The photos shown here were shot by Mike Camunas to provide an idea of the kind of photos we’re seeking. Mike’s photography graces the pages of our newspaper each week, providing a visual element to our storytelling.

The quality of his work has been recognized by the Florida Press Association.

He will be overseeing our “A Sense of Place” feature, which we plan to publish each week, based on the number and quality of submissions we receive.

Thanks, in advance, to anyone who chooses to share their passion for photography with our readers.

To submit your photo for consideration, send it to .

Please tell us when and where it was taken and any special circumstances or other details you’d like to share. Also, please provide a photo credit and contact information, in case we need to reach back.

Published July 26, 2023

Some years ago, we launched a photo feature called Local Wildlife.

The dock, near Lake Padgett, offers a picture of tranquility, at sunset in Land O’ Lakes.

The idea was to attempt to capture images of birds, raccoons, alligators and other wild creatures that make their home in the region covered by The Laker/Lutz News. We thought it would be a great way to engage our readers – in two ways. One, it provided a vehicle for our readers to share images they captured in our communities. Two, it gave our readers something to look forward to seeing each week.

Today, we are announcing the launch of another series, which we hope will be equally popular — both with photographers who want to share their images and with readers who enjoy viewing them.

This photo feature is called “A Sense of Place.” The idea is to capture photos within our coverage area that help convey the sense of our communities.

We are not looking for images of people, but are rather looking for photographs of scenes or objects that help tell the story of our locale.

This new venture will be under the direction of Mike Camunas, an award-winning staff writer and photographer. His images that appear in our newspaper each week have enhanced the visual presentation of our newspaper.

Please turn to page 1B to see examples of the types of images that we’re seeking for this feature.

The goal is to add it to our weekly lineup, but that will depend upon the number of submissions we receive. If you’d like an image to be considered for publication, please email it to . Please add a sentence or two, describing when and where you took the photo and what the image means to you. Be sure to include who took the photo and contact information, in case we need to reach back.

Thanks, in advance, for helping us to present a newspaper you look forward to receiving each week.

— B.C. Manion, editor of The Laker/Lutz News

Published July 26, 2023

There are some areas where citrus still grows in Central Pasco, such as this unripe orange on a tree in a grove along U.S. Highway 41 in Land O’ Lakes.
This weathered road leads to the hilly backwoods of Dade City, an area characterized by its green pastures.
An artistic interpretation of a cluster of pine trees in Pasco County. The county still offers plenty of ways to get out to enjoy nature’s bounty.

 

Global data breach could affect thousands in Hillsborough County

By

Hillsborough County has notified more than 70,000 people whose information may have been compromised by a global data breach that has affected the county, according to a news release.

“It is unknown how many people might have had their health or identification information compromised, but in an abundance of caution, Hillsborough County has mailed notification letters to clients of Healthcare Services and known affected vendors of Aging Services – a total of 70,636 people – of the data breach,” the county’s news release said.

The county also is notifying the credit monitoring bureaus of all those potentially impacted by the data breaches, as well as the Florida Department of Legal Affairs/Office of Attorney General and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Civil Rights.

The county also is advising those who were notified of the potential breach to consider taking these steps to protect themselves from potential fraud: 

  • Call the toll-free numbers of any one of the three major credit bureaus to place a fraud alert on your credit report. This can help prevent thieves from opening additional accounts in your name. (As soon as one credit bureau confirms your fraud alert, the other two credit bureaus automatically will be notified to place alerts on your credit report as well.)

Here are the credit bureau numbers:

When you establish a fraud alert, you will receive a follow-up letter that explains how to receive a free credit report, according to the county’s news release.

When you receive your credit report, the county advises you to be sure to examine it closely for signs of fraud, such as credit accounts that are not yours. Continue to monitor your credit reports.

Even if a fraud alert has been placed on your account, you should continue to monitor your credit reports to ensure that an imposter has not opened an account with your personal information, the news release added.

The county was notified on June 1 about the global data breach, involving the MOVEit file transfer tool, according to the release.

When the county was notified, its cyber security staff immediately contacted the company for additional details and instructions and installed all updated security patches as provided by the vendor, the release added.

During the next two weeks, county staff continued to work with the vendor on additional security patches and received more information.  

The cyber security staff learned on June 18 that Hillsborough County files could have potentially been impacted by the breach and in coordination with the County’s HIPAA Officer reviewed the affected files.

A determination was made that the files belonged to the Healthcare Services and Aging Services departments and potentially contained protected health information and personal information, the news release added.

Protected health and personal information could include first and last names, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, home addresses, medical conditions and diagnoses, and disability codes, according to the release.

Hillsborough County files were not specifically targeted in the cyberattack, but as a customer of MOVEit, the county potentially was affected.

Individuals with questions may reach out for more information. For additional details, call the county’s dedicated toll-free number 1-833-963-4357 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., on Mondays through Fridays.

Published July 26, 2023

New law aims to protect consumers from online fraud

By

A new law, which was authored by U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis and U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, has been adopted to provide better protections for consumers to help reduce online retail crime.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent letters to 50 online marketplaces nationwide notifying them about their obligation to comply with the new Integrity, Notification, and Fairness in Online Retail Marketplaces for Consumers (INFORM Consumers Act), according to a news release from Bilirakis’ office.

The businesses were told they must be in full compliance by June 27, 2023 or face enforcement that could result in civil penalties for violations, the release said.

The INFORM Consumers Act directs online platforms that allow for third-party sellers of consumer products to verify the identity of high-volume third-party sellers, which will help prevent organized retail crime.

The new law also ensures that consumers can verify basic identification and contact information for high-volume third-party sellers of consumer products on online marketplaces. The agency recently released a guidance for businesses to better understand their obligations under the law.

“Our pro-consumer legislation enacts uniform, nationwide rules to promote safety, increase transparency, and provide greater accountability for online sales. It will provide a layer of enhanced protections for consumers from stolen and counterfeit goods without adding undue burdens on small mom-and-pop businesses,” Congressman Bilirakis, said in the release. “This new law is a win-win for consumers and legitimate businesses in the online marketplace, and I am pleased to see the law will soon be fully implemented.”

Schakowsky added:  “For too long, criminals have raked in profits by selling dangerous, counterfeit, and stolen products online. This ends next week when the INFORM Consumers Act, which Rep. Bilirakis and I fought so hard for, is finally enacted. This new law will require platforms to verify the identity of online sellers, which will discourage criminals and fraudsters, protect consumers and legitimate businesses, and will increase trust in the marketplace.”

Published July 26, 2023

Summer’s here: Stay safe when boating

By

It’s summer vacation time and a lot of families and boating enthusiasts will be hitting the water.

Here are some tips to help you stay safe when you are on the water.

Before boating

  • Check the weather forecast. Be prepared for high winds, the sun and other elements, and be aware that conditions can change rapidly.
  • Don’t forget to stay hydrated. Bring plenty of drinkable water.
  • Be sure to check your equipment. Be sure to have what you need and that everything is working properly.
  • Be sure you have the proper permits, a fire extinguisher and easily accessible life jackets. Complete a float plan before you leave by letting someone who is staying shoreside know where you are going and launching from, how you plan to get there and approximately when you are leaving and plan to return. Float plans are critical in the event of an emergency and will give search and rescue crews a huge advantage in where to begin. 
  • Complete safety checks before you launch.
  • Be patient at boat ramps and launch sites, and follow all posted signs.

While on the water

  • Designate a sober captain, as well. It’s important to know that alcohol impairments affect the body differently while on the water and you may feel its effects faster than you do when drinking on land.
  • Don’t forget: Boating while intoxicated is illegal.
  • Remember, just like drivers, share the road; boaters share the water and its resources.
  • Be cautious and reduce speeds near other vessels while on the water.
  • Keep an eye out for other people on the water such as kayakers, paddle boarders and swimmers. 
  • Always look for dive flags to help keep snorkelers and divers safe when below the surface, too.
  • Be vigilant of wildlife, and give animals plenty of space.

To find out more about water safety, visit PoolSafely.gov, apsp.org or RedCross.org.

Published July 19, 2023

Pasco tax collector wants to stop sending tax bills for less than $10

By

If your tax bill is less than $10, Pasco County Tax Collector won’t be sending you that bill — effective next year.

But Mike Fasano wants to notify taxpayers of that change this year.

The Pasco County Commission agreed to Fasano’s request to stop sending the bills during its July 11 meeting.

But that won’t be official until the board adopts a resolution to that effect.

The fiscal breakdown from the tax collector’s analysis was included in the county board’s agenda packet.

It shows that Fasano’s office is losing money when it sends out the bills for less than $10.

The estimated cost for printing and mailing the notice is $23,210.34. The total collected, if paid, would be $11,240.99. That results in a loss of $11,969.35 for sending the notices to those owing less than $10.

Fasano said that most of the under-$10 tax bills are mineral rights notices.

“If you know anything about mineral rights, it’s the most ridiculous thing ever created by the state of Florida.

“They don’t get paid, first of all.

“Then we have to send reminder notices. Then, we have to advertise them.

“And the only one who can buy the certificate, if they wanted to, is the people that own the property on top of those mineral rights.”

Fasano told the board if they can adopt the resolution this year, he can let people know in this year’s mailing that if their tax bill is less than $10, this is the last notice they’ll receive.

Commissioner Kathryn Starkey made a motion to approve Fasano’s request, which was seconded by Commissioner Ron Oakley.

But County Attorney Jeffrey Steinsnyder told board members they can’t approve the request until a resolution is prepared for their action.

“If that’s the board’s inclination, we can put that back on the Aug. 8 agenda,” Steinsnyder said.

Commission Chairman Jack Mariano told Fasano: “I think it’s unanimous with the board to move forward with it, so happy to do it. Thank you for bringing it forward.”

Published July 19, 2023