The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Public is invited to help shape Pasco’s future

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Pasco County is establishing its vision for the future and is asking the public to weigh in on the Pasco County 2050 Comprehensive Plan Update.

Here are upcoming opportunities for interested parties to get involved:

  • Aug. 17, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Wesley Chapel District Park, 7727 Boyette Road in Wesley Chapel
  • Aug. 23, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Sessions are being held on the same day, at the same time at these two locations: River Ridge High School Gymnasium, 11646 Town Center Road in New Port Richey and at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa. Both of these sessions will cover the same materials, but held in two locations for the convenience of those who would like to take part.

During the workshops, attendees will learn about the community-driven vision derived from the public input received thus far and provide their ideas on potential implementation strategies to include in the update.

Those having questions about the event or the project may contact Hayat Mazili, project manager at 727-847-8140, ext. 7615.

Published August 16, 2023

Higher speed limits save little time, but pose safety risks, study shows

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While it might seem like raising speed limits would save time on the road, an AAA Foundation for Traffic Study found that isn’t necessarily true.

The AAA Foundation’s research found that raising posted speed limits may do little to save time and improve traffic flow, but could lead to more crashes, injuries and deaths, according to a news release from AAA.

The research results varied across 12 roadway sites that the study examined. All had new posted speed limits. Six were higher and six were lower. The study also includes various types of roads, the news release says.

The results showed:

  • Raising posted speed limits was associated with increased crashes on two of three interstate highways.
  • Lowering posted speed limits led to fewer crashes in many cases examined, but the likelihood increased for speed limit violations.
  • Changes in travel times were small, whether the speed limits were raised or lowered.

“Our study found no one-size-fits-all answer regarding the impact of changing speed limits,” Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in the release.

“AAA urges transportation officials to apply a “holistic” approach when setting or changing posted speed limits and prioritize safety over speed and capacity,” Jenkin said.

Speeding is a critical factor in vehicle crashes across the nation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were more than 42,000 traffic deaths in 2021 and again in 2022, the highest levels in 16 years, according to the AAA release.

The NHTSA reports that speeding was a factor in nearly 29% of the fatalities in 2021 and 27% in 2022, the release added.

AAA recommends that changes in posted speed limits should consider a range of factors, including but not limited to the type of road, surrounding land use, and historical crash data. AAA supports automated speed enforcement, but says that programs must be carefully implemented to maintain community support, prioritize equity and consistently drive improved safety. 

“The movement in statehouses to raise speed limits is happening across the country in at least eight states this year,” Jennifer Ryan, director of state relations for AAA, said in the release. “But the benefits are overrated, and the risks are understated. Increasing speed limits does not always yield the positive results envisioned by traffic planners.”

This study is the third phase of the AAA Foundation research examining the effect of posted speed limit changes on safety.

Published August 16, 2023

Orange Belt Trail alternatives are topic of meeting

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The public is invited to attend upcoming meetings to discuss alternatives relating to the planned Orange Belt Trail, which will span roughly 37 miles through Pasco County, from Trinity to Trilby.

Some residents can’t wait for the Orange Belt Trail to come their way, others are resistant. Everyone is welcome to weigh in on Pasco County’s proposed alternatives for the trail that eventually is expected to span roughly 37 miles, from Trinity to Trilby. (File)

The meetings will provide an update on the study, which includes changes based on input received at previous workshops, according to a Pasco County news release.

The project team will present potential alignments, along with maps of the alternative routes.

Team members also will present an evaluation and solicit feedback on the alternatives.

Both meetings will cover the same information.

Here are the meeting dates and places:

  • Aug. 15, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the GFWC Dade City Woman’s Club, 37922 Palm Ave., in Dade City
  • Aug. 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, in Odessa.

The meetings are held open-house style, so participants can come and go.

A brief formal presentation will be given each evening at 6 p.m., and staff will be available to answer questions.

Input collected at the sessions will help Pasco County determine which alternatives will move forward through the study.

A recommended alignment is expected to be presented to the Pasco Board of County Commissioners in mid-2024.

For more information, visit OrangeBeltTrail.com. To learn more about Pasco County Engineering Services, visit MyPas.co/3tzL8N3.

Published August 09, 2023

Bilirakis receives Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award

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U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis has been recognized for championing seniors’ rights.

He has been awarded the Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award from the American Association of Senior Citizens, according to a news release from Bilirakis’ office.

The award acknowledges Bilirakis’ continuous efforts to preserve critical programs that benefit seniors, such as Medicare and Social Security, the release says.

The congressman also championed a wide range of legislative measures aimed to prevent exploitation, enhance supportive services, ensure access to quality care options and provide financial relief for our nation’s seniors.

Bilirakis has been a strong supporter of the Older Americans Act reauthorization, which provides funding to help seniors age independently in their homes, and of the Community Development Block Grant, which funds critical senior programs, such as Meals on Wheels, the release noted.

He has fought to expand and protect access to Medicare Advantage, a flexible option chosen by nearly half of the seniors who reside throughout Florida’s 12th congressional district. Locally, he also recently secured $2 million in federal funds for a senior center in Central Pasco County and has sponsored a community budget project to provide an additional $2 million in funding for affordable senior housing options throughout Pasco County, according to the release.

“It is said that a society can be judged by how well it treats its most vulnerable populations,” Bilirakis said, in the release.

 “As a former elder law attorney, I understand the challenges that many seniors face as they endeavor to age with dignity – and with as much independence as possible. Record inflation has hit seniors particularly hard, which is unfair given that most live on a fixed income. We have to do more to ensure cost of living adjustment more accurately reflects the pressures seniors face and to ensure they have access to high quality care and treatments. I will always continue fighting to ensure a strong safety net to protect all seniors, and I am honored to receive this prestigious award.”

Published August 09, 2023

Habitat for Humanity gets $2 million in state funding

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Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties has received $2 million in state funding to address affordable housing needs, according to a Habitat news release.

“This milestone signifies a significant step toward addressing the urgent need for safe and affordable housing within Pinellas and West Pasco Counties,” the release says.

“Habitat partnered with Johnston & Stewart Government Strategies to successfully secure funding in this year’s budget,” it adds.

State Sen. Ed Hooper and House Rep. Kim Berfield sponsored the legislation and championed the cause, according to the release.

The funding will be instrumental in supporting Habitat’s Achieving the Dream of Homeownership project, which aims to construct 92 affordable homeownership units across four subdivisions in Pinellas and Pasco counties, the release adds.

The funding will be allocated toward critical horizontal development activities, including infrastructure development, architectural design, civil engineering, and other associated expenses, the release says.

The appropriation will help Habitat for Humanity to have a substantial impact on the lives of deserving families and will contribute to the overall well-being of our community, the release adds.

Mike Sutton, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, reacted to the news this way: “We are overjoyed and deeply grateful for the $2 million state funding allocated to our Achieving the Dream of Homeownership project.

“This remarkable achievement was made possible by the dogged dedication of (State) Sen. Ed Hooper, (State) Rep. Kim Berfield, and all members of the state legislature who championed affordable housing initiatives. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our committed supporters whose tireless efforts have brought us closer to our vision of ensuring everyone has a safe and decent place to call home.

“As we move forward, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties remains determined in its mission to make homeownership dreams a reality for families in need,” he said, in the release.

Published August 09, 2023

Land O’ Lakes church gets new pastor

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(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

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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

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(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

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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

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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