The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Avalon Applauds Pasco County Schools’ 2023 Outstanding Seniors

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Congratulations to the following students within The Laker/Lutz News’ coverage area, who earned the title of 2023 Outstanding Senior for Pasco County Schools, for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. To see the full list of Outstanding Seniors and to learn more about their accomplishments, go to tinyurl.com/mrybbhjf.

Jack Carbone, Cypress Creek High School: Highlights include: Scoring 1400 on his SAT; chosen as the district nominee for the U.S. CTE Presidential Scholar; and was the Coyote Engineering Student of the year twice.
Arossa Adhikary, Land O’ Lakes High School: Highlights include: president of LOLHS Student Government; president/historian of Future Business Leaders of America (District XI); and received the Anne Frank Humanitarian Award in 2021.
Myka Wilks, Pasco High School: Highlights include: National Honor Society president; presidential scholarship recipient at Flagler College; honor roll all four years; and completed 100+ service hours.
Frederic Bowen, Sunlake High School: Highlights include: Varsity color guard – rifle solo world champion; and three nominations for the Society for Science and Engineering Fair.
Paapa Kusi, Wesley Chapel High School: Highlights include: African Students Association founder/president; Students for Change co-founder; and National African American Recognition Program Scholar.
Aiden Macumber, Zephyrhills High School: Highlights include: 2022-2023 leader of all ZHS JROTC teams; founding president of ZHS Science National Honor Society chapter; ZHS student mentor; and Boy Scouts patrol member.
Caroline Gordon, Wiregrass Ranch High School: Highlights include: Volunteers at a senior living community; Senior band captain; and member of the 2019 State Champion Award-winning marching band.

In Pasco, it’s ‘code compliance’ team now, not ‘code enforcement’

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Pasco County has changed the name of its team responsible for making the county’s neighborhoods and communities safer, cleaner and more attractive.

Now that department will be known as Code Compliance, not Code Enforcement, according to a county news release.

The name change is intended to emphasize the county’s focus on education, which is intended to help customers come into compliance before any warnings or citations are issued, the news release says.

The idea is to reduce confusion because “code compliance is not law enforcement,” the release says. Plus, the focus is on why and how people can come into compliance with codes.

“We want to educate our community members about the importance of compliance and erase the negative stigma associated with the idea of enforcement,” Patrick Arotin, director of Code Compliance, said in the release. “Enforcement is the last step in the code compliance process.”

The Code Compliance team aims to help people understand the primary purpose of county codes, which are designed to protect and improve the health, safety and welfare of everyone living in or visiting Pasco County, the release notes.

To find out more about Code Compliance or to report a potential violations, call 727-847-2411.

Published December 14, 2022

Study results in higher pay for Pasco government workers

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Pasco County’s human resources staff has completed a Classification and Compensation Study, which subsequently led to salary increases that were approved as part of the county’s budgeting process.

“Our pay and class study is key to retaining team members and attracting new employees,” said Kathryn Starkey, who was board chairwoman when the raises took effect.

“Pasco County is committed to creating a better future for our community, and there’s no better way to do that than by investing in the right people,” Starkey said, in a county news release.

The human resources team worked with all county departments and hundreds of team members during a months-long study to review position equality internally and competitiveness within our local economy externally.

The salary increases took effect Oct. 1.

The increases include frontline workers from multiple departments including Fire/Rescue, Public Transportation, and Corrections.

The study resulted in the following average pay increases:

  • 14% for those making less than $30,000 a year
  • 12% for those making $30,000 to $40,000
  • 10% for those making $40,000 to $50,000
  • 6% for those making over $50,000

There also were increases of 10% to 15% in starting pay for most positions.

“This is our third pay and class study since 2016, and the biggest bump we’ve seen to date,” said Barbara Hitzemann, director of human resources, in the news release.

To learn more about Pasco’s career opportunities, visit MyPas.co/Jobs.

Published December 14, 2022

This prom gives people with special needs a ‘Night to Shine’

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Grace Community Church in Wesley Chapel is hosting a “Night to Shine,” an event aimed at giving people with special needs a prom of their own.

Churches around the world will be hosting the event simultaneously on Feb. 10, 2023, according to a news release from Jeff Olsen, pastor of Grace Community.

The event will be held at Cypress Creek Middle School, 8845 Old Pasco Road, Wesley Chapel, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

This is the first time the Wesley Chapel church has joined the worldwide event sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation. Organizers at Grace Community are encouraging those wishing to attend to register early, before the event reaches capacity.

(Courtesy of Grace Community Church)

“Every guest of ‘Night to Shine’ enters this complimentary event on a red carpet, complete with a warm welcome from a friendly crowd and paparazzi,” according to Olsen’s release.

“Once inside, guests receive the royal treatment including corsages and boutonnieres, a catered dinner, karaoke, prom favors, a dance floor… all leading up to the moment when each guest is crowned king or queen of the prom,” the release says.

“Grace Community Church is excited to be a part of this movement that God is using as a catalyst to change how cultures embrace people with disabilities and to rally the church to honor their local community of people with special needs, ensuring they know that they are valued and loved,” the church’s news release adds.

Night to Shine launched in 2015 with 44 host churches and 15,000 volunteers honoring more than 7,000 kings and queens of the prom, according to the release.

In February 2020, 721 host churches and 215,000 volunteers came together to celebrate 110,000 honored guests with special needs.

“Over the past two years, Night to Shine innovated and endured through the pandemic with the first-ever virtual Night to Shine, celebrating thousands of honored guests through unique adaptations, including a complete virtual video experience and socially distanced Shine Thru drive-thru events,” according to the release.

Tebow weighed in on the upcoming event, in the release.

“I’m so excited Night to Shine 2023 will be back in-person! All around the world, individuals with special needs are going to be celebrated like they should be,” he said. “We’ve been able to adapt over the last couple years but we can’t wait to be back together in person to cheer for every guest as they walk the red carpet, dance the night away with their friends, crown them as a king or queen of the prom and most importantly, tell every single one of them that their life has purpose and they are loved by us and the God of this universe.”

Lexus of Wesley Chapel is the Title Sponsor for the inaugural Night to Shine event in Wesley Chapel.

For additional information on the Night to Shine at Grace Community Church, visit NightToShineWesleyChapel.com.

For more information on the worldwide event, visit TimTebowFoundation.org/night-to-shine.

Published December 14, 2022

Pasco County Commission reorganizes

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The Pasco County Commission has reorganized, naming Jack Mariano as its new chairman and Ron Oakley as its vice chairman.

The other members of the county board are Kathryn Starkey, Seth Weightman and Gary Bradford. Weightman was elected to replace Mike Moore, who did not seek reelection and Bradford defeated incumbent Christina Fitzpatrick.

Weightman and Bradford were sworn in on Nov. 22.

Oakley represents District 1, Weightman represents District 2, Starkey represents District 3, Bradford represents District 4 and Mariano represents District 5.

Pasco County Commission meetings typically are held every other Tuesday, with meeting locations alternating between the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey and the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City.

The meetings are streamed live online and are broadcast on Pasco TV.

Published December 14, 2022

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.