The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

SWFMD provides information about wells to property owners

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The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFMD) is working with the Florida Groundwater Association on a public outreach campaign on the issues regarding well construction and repairs.

The campaign aims to help homeowners find information about contractors who are licensed to construct and repair wells, according to a SWFMD news release.

In the release, David Arnold, well construction manager for SWFMD, provides this Q & A with information on these frequently asked questions.

David Arnold, well construction manager for the Southwest Florida Water Management District, offers some practical information for people who need to build or repair a well on their property. (Courtesy of the Southwest Florida Water Management District)

Q: Why do I need a permit to construct a water well?

A: A well construction permit is required before installation of a water well within the SWFMD district. The permits ensure that wells are constructed by qualified contractors to meet rigid safety and durability standards, and protect the groundwater resource.

Q: Does it matter what part of the District I live in?

A: Permits are required for the construction, repair, modification and abandonment of most water wells within SWFMD. A water use permit must be obtained from SWFMD before well construction permits can be issued.

  1. Who should I hire to construct my well?
  2. All wells must be constructed by a Florida licensed water well contractor. All water well contractors are licensed by the water management districts. You can determine if someone has an active water well contractor license by contacting SWFMD’s well construction section at 813-367-3052. The only exception to this law is for a water well 2 inches or less in diameter constructed by an individual to provide water into their single family residential dwelling or for farming purposes on their farm, as specified in Florida Statutes. In certain areas, mandatory well designs might apply that would create difficulties for an unlicensed individual to construct a water well themselves. As with licensed water well contractors, this exception also requires the owner to secure a permit from SWFMD before construction. The applicant is required to submit a well completion report, or as-built, within 30 days of completion of permitted well construction.

Q: What other research should I do before choosing a water well contractor?

A: Research customer reviews before choosing a contractor and get multiple quotes. Request a written estimate and contract, and review details for all customer liabilities. Determine if the contractor requesting the permit is the same person doing the work. Research what other steps may be required for well construction, such as treatment systems or additional local regulations.

Q: Where should I place a well on my property?

A: Your well is required to be located at an area on your property that meets mandatory setback distances from any sanitary hazards so the well will not pose a threat to the groundwater resource and provides protection for the health, safety and welfare of the user. For single-family dwelling potable water wells, these setbacks include 75 feet from any septic tank and drain field and 75 feet from drainage/retention ponds. If possible, it is recommended that your well be constructed on the highest ground possible so that surface water will drain away from the well. The top of casing for most wells is required to extend at least 1 foot above land surface. If located within a flood zone, the top of casing shall extend 1 foot above the 100-year flood elevation, if possible. In general, shallow wells that draw groundwater from a depth near land surface are the most susceptible to contamination. Deeper wells are generally less prone to contamination.

Q: Can SWFMD provide assistance if there is a contractual dispute between the water well contractor and the well owner?

A: SWFMD’s jurisdiction applies to the construction, repair, modification, and abandonment of most water wells. Price, business practices, reimbursement, and customer service provided by water well contractors are not under its jurisdiction. SWFMD cannot assign restrictions or suspend a water well contractor’s license based on the contractor’s transactions with the well owner. Those who feel they are a victim of a crime or scam, should contact the appropriate authorities.

For more information on well construction, including applicable well construction rules and regulations, visit WaterMatters.org/WellConstruction.

Published December 14, 2022

Just in time for the holidays: Avoid gift card scams

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The Pasco Sheriff’s Office is offering some timely reminders to help people spot and avoid potential gift card scams during the holidays.

The following tips are condensed from a sheriff’s office news release, which was accompanied by a more detailed posting:

  • Buying gift cards directly from the retailer and online purchases are best. Direct purchases require fewer transfers of funds resulting in more stringent security. Online retailers mail the gift card directly to you, preventing any access to the purchase codes and PIN. In addition, your receipt from the retailer for the gift card has a direct verification to validate your purchase. As a bonus, stores sometimes offer incentives when you purchase a specific amount.
  • Never buy gift cards from an auction or community website. Resale sites are often a traffic source for stolen, fraudulent or already used gift cards.
  • If purchasing a gift card at a retailer, inspect gift cards for signs of tampering before purchasing or placing a balance on them.
  • Keep in mind that gift cards stored near the register and under security camera coverage are less likely to be tampered with.
  • Carefully review cards and packaging for signs of tampering or exposure; be mindful of replacement stickers that may cover security codes, and look for scratches to the card beyond the security strip.
  • If the PIN is exposed on a gift card, notify a store representative and choose an untampered card.
  • Save receipts after the purchase of a gift card
  • Treat received gift cards like a debit card: change the security code to something creative, that only you would know.

Published December 14, 2022

Simple steps can help prevent holiday fires

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Here are some pointers from the National Fire Protection Association, to help you to keep the season merry and bright — and avoid the dangers of a holiday fire.

When decorating

  • Choose decorations that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant.
  • Keep lit candles away from decorations and other items that can catch fire.
  • Pay attention to the holiday lights you are using and where you display them: Some lights are for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.
  • Replace any string of lights that has worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the number of light strands to connect.
  • Use clips, not nails, to hang lights to avoid damaging cords.
  • Keep decorations away from windows and doors.

When entertaining

  • Test your smoke alarms and tell guests about how to evacuate safely, in case of a fire.
  • Keep children and pets away from lit candles.
  • Keep matches and lighters stored high.
  • Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stovetop.
  • Ask smokers to smoke outside. Remind smokers to keep their smoking materials with them to prevent young children from touching them.
  • Provide large, deep ashtrays for smokers. Be sure to moisten cigarette butts with water, before discarding them.

Before heading to bed

  • Blow out lit candles when leaving a room, or going to bed.
  • Turn off all holiday lights and decorations before leaving home or going to bed.

Reminder: Be very careful with candles
More than one-third of home decoration fires are started by candles. Nearly half of all fires involving holiday decorations occur because the decorations are placed too close to a heat source.

Pointers to prevent Christmas tree fires

  • Choose a Christmas tree with fresh, green needles that do not fall off when touched.
  • Cut 2 inches from the base of the trunk before putting the tree in its stand, to help it absorb water.
  • Be sure your tree is at least 3 feet away from any heat source, such as a fireplace, radiator, candle, or heat vent.
  • Make sure the tree is not blocking an exit.
  • Once you’ve placed the tree, add water to the tree stand. Be sure to add water daily.
  • When adding lights to the tree, be sure the lights are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Pay attention to what type of lights you are using. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use, while others can be used for both.
  • Pay attention to how many light strands can be safely connected (read manufacturer instructions).
  • Never use lit candles to decorate the tree.
  • Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
  • Be sure to keep your Christmas tree watered through the holidays. After the holidays, dispose of it.
  • Remember that dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the home.

Published December 07, 2022

Pasco wants to know community’s thoughts

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Pasco County has launched its 2022 Pasco Community Survey and is asking the community to share information and feedback to help create a better future, according to a county news release.

The survey will be available through Dec. 16.

The county uses an annual survey as a “vital listening tool,” the release says.

The survey was initially launched in 2009 and it gathers feedbacks on all sorts of topics, including: Utilities; Parks & Libraries; Safety/Emergency Services; Transportation; Growth and the Importance/Quality of Services.

The responses help inform the Pasco County Commission in its planning and decision-making, the news release says.

“We value and appreciate our customers’ feedback and use it as guidance as we make important decisions,” Pasco County Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey said, in the release. “Please take a moment to take our survey and help us improve how we serve you!”

Those wishing to take the survey can go to MyPasco.net and click on the survey link; go to MyPasco App and click on the Community Survey button; or go to Pasco County’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Nextdoor pages and click on the survey link; or click directly on the survey link at mypas.co/2022PascoSurvey.

Hillsborough seeking input on internet connectivity

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Hillsborough County is conducting an assessment to determine where internet connectivity disparities exist within the county, and to develop a plan to provide increased, equitable and effective broadband internet service coverage countywide, according to a news release.

Part of the effort includes a consumer survey and speed test, which will be available until Dec. 16.

To optimize results, Hillsborough County is asking all residents and businesses to participate. The survey is available in English and Spanish, the release says.

For those without digital access, paper surveys in English and Spanish will be available at local libraries, the release adds.

Information provided by residents through the survey will help the county verify its existing information about speeds and availability of broadband services.

The Hillsborough County broadband program supports activities and initiatives of the State of Florida Office of Broadband within the Department of Economic Opportunity, the release continues.

The information collected for Hillsborough County’s Digital Equity Action Plan will be used to leverage federal funding through the Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act to bridge the digital divide in the county.

For more information on the County’s Digital Equity and Broadband Expansion, visit HCFLGov.net/Broadband.

A sea of tranquility

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Jeremy Vizzi snapped this shot of a Thanksgiving sunset over Land O’ Lakes, by piloting a drone about 350 feet above his house in Lake Padgett Estates. The peaceful sight renders a smile, and hope for the future.

The myths, legends and delicious varieties of bread

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Whether it’s a slice of toast in the morning, some garlic bread with spaghetti, or dinner rolls served as a finishing touch — bread is a commonly consumed item in many people’s diet.

But did you know that bread is found in nearly every culture, region and religion?

Historically, grains have been the most widely cultivated food crops, they have been harvested and processed for food since the beginning of civilization and remain a staple food across the world to this day.

Bread takes on many forms — from pita to challah to baguette.

Kneading is a basic part of making bread. Dry yeast is a basic ingredient. It was hard to find in stores or online in the midst of the pandemic, but supply chain issues have been improved since the demand for the ingredient has stabilized. (Pixabay.com)

There also are myths, legends and superstitions associated with bread, according to published reports.

For instance, have you ever heard that whoever takes the last piece of bread has to kiss the cook? Or, that if bread is part of your dream something happy is about to happen?

Did you know that when two people reach for a piece of bread simultaneously, visitors will be arriving?

Or, that you can reverse the bad luck of dropping a piece of bread butter-side-down by making a wish when you pick it up?

The origin of these ideas isn’t known, but the phrase “baker’s dozen” does have its place in history.

It came about because bakers in 13th century England were charging full price, but shorting customers on the size of their baked items.

King Henry III made that practice unlawful.

Any baker caught selling bread — at full price — that was below the standard weight — could end up in jail, or have a hand cut off.

Not wanting to take any chances, bakers began adding a 13th item, just to be safe.

Ah, if only shrinkflation could be punishable today.

Besides having a colorful history, many people also have a love-hate relationship with bread.

They love its taste; they hate the weight gain it can cause.

But at the end of the day, it depends on the quality of the bread product.

So, like many other nutritional options, bread can play a role in healthy eating — but there are ways to maximize the nutrients you consume in your breads.

Here are some tips:

  • Make sure half of all your grains are whole grains.
  • Check the ingredients on store-bought bread: Look for whole wheat, whole-wheat flour, or another whole grain as the first ingredient.
  • Remember: Whole grains are essential to the diet; they are a good source of complex carbohydrates and can provide protein and fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and glucose levels and promote a healthy digestive system.
  • Bulk up your baked goods: When baking breads, substitute half or all your white flour for whole wheat flour. Try adding nuts and seeds to your fresh-baked breads.
  • Remember, uncooked oats make a great addition to breads and muffins.
  • When consuming bread, combine it with other foods. It is a good idea to pair your bread with other foods like plant proteins, lean meats, and/or healthy fats to reduce blood sugar spikes.

For instance, you can enjoy a slice of toasted bread with olive oil with your breakfast eggs, or with a salad for lunch.

Remember you also can make your own bread, which, of course, allows you to control the ingredients that it includes.

Happy baking!

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: Mixed Grain Bread

Ingredients
1/4 cup cornmeal (yellow)
1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 cup water (boiling)
1 packet dry yeast (active)
1/4 cup water (warm 105 degrees to 115 degrees)
1/3 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup rye flour
2 1/4 cups flour (all purpose)

Directions

  • Mix cornmeal, brown sugar, salt and oil with boiling water, cool to lukewarm (105 degrees to 115 degrees).
  • Dissolve yeast in 1/4 cup warm water; stir into cornmeal mixture. Add whole wheat and rye flours and mix well. Stir in enough all-purpose flour to make dough stiff enough to knead.
  • Turn dough onto lightly floured surface. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes to 10 minutes.
  • Place dough in lightly oiled bowl, turning oil top. Cover with clean towel; let rise in warm place until double, about 1 hour.
  • Punch dough down; turn onto clean surface. Cover with clean towel; let rest 10 minutes. Shape dough and place in greased 9-inch by 5-inch pan. Cover with clean towel; let rise until almost double, about 1 hour.
  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Bake 35 minutes to 45 minutes or until bread sounds hollow when tapped. Cover with aluminum foil during baking, if bread is browning too quickly. Remove bread from pan and cool on wire rack.

Source: Cornell University Cooperative Extension

Published November 30, 2022

Hazardous waste and electronics drop-off event

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Pasco County will host a mobile drop-off for household hazardous waste and electronics, for Pasco County residents.

Those tired of old household cleaners under their kitchen sink, pesticides in their garage or outdated electronics in the house can get rid of them at this event, according to a Pasco County news release.

The county is collecting the items on Dec. 3 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at its West Pasco Government Center Complex, 7536 State St., in New Port Richey. Drivers should enter via Government Drive or Citizens Drive.

For a full list of household hazardous waste items you can drop off during the collection event, visit bit.ly/2mx7K0h.

This event is free to anyone living in Pasco County, except there is a $5 charge to dispose of televisions, computer monitors, computer towers and laptops, and a $10 charge for televisions 36 inches or larger.

To find out more, visit bit.ly/2getW9g.

Published November 30, 2022

Comments sought on 13th Judicial Circuit judge vacancy

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Gov. Ron DeSantis has convened the 13th Judicial Circuit Nominating Commission to select and submit the names of highly qualified candidates to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge Susan “Suzy” Lopez, according to a news release.

These individuals have applied: E. Christopher Abdoney; Alicia Whiting Bozich; Christine Shiver Brown; Cory L. Chandler; Travis J. Coy; Jeffrey D. Groover; E. Michael Isaak; Joseph W. Kudia; Elba C. Martin; Richard H. Martin; Bennett M. Miller; Diego F. Novaes; Matthew H. Perry; Lisa M. Thelwell and W. Michael Thornton, the release says.

The nominating commission encourages and seeks comments regarding the qualifications of these applicants from the public and from members of the Bench and Bar.

Comments may be addressed to Max Amster, chair, 13th Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission, and emailed to , or mailed to Max Amster, 1700 S. MacDill Ave, Suite 300, Tampa, FL 33629.

Comments must be received no later than noon on Dec. 5, to be considered by the commission.

Published November 30, 2022

Helping to take care of others

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(Courtesy of Kids Helping Kids Pasco County)

The Kids Helping Kids Pasco County wants to thank all its donors and volunteers who participated in its fifth annual Thanksgiving Meal Drive. The nonprofit organization was able to deliver meals to 57 Pasco County families (about 300 people). Yesterday we delivered meals to 57 Pasco County Families (nearly 300 people). For information on Kids Helping Kids, call 813-957-5711, or email .