The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Halloween season starts with Zombie Apocalypse

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The scariest ghouls and prettiest princesses, with a few vampires and Frankensteins dropped in, is what everyone expects as the end of October rolls nearer.

But Lutz can add zombies to that mix on Oct. 19 when the Zombie Apocalypse comes to Xtreme Adventures.

Running form 8 p.m. to midnight, the event is designed for kids between 13 and 18. It includes music by D.J. C. Lo, as well as laser tag. Those attending as encouraged to wear their best zombie costume, creating a battle on the laser tag court that “Night of the Living Dead” could never dream of.

Cost for the event starts at $15, and will take place at Xtreme Adventures, 24810 State Road 54 in Lutz.

For more information on the event, visit XtremeAdventures4Fun.com.

For other Halloween and seasonal events, be sure to pick up the print edition of The Laker/Lutz News on Oct. 22.

 

 

Florida’s unemployment rate slips, but still mostly flat

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Florida’s unemployment rate has slipped a bit in September, bringing it to its lowest point since June 2008, but still remaining mostly flat since last December.

The rate, according to Gov. Rick Scott’s office, was 6.1 percent in September, down from 6.3 percent in August. That was the result of 12,800 new private-sector jobs in the month, but the percentage of unemployed people is still larger than the rest of the nation.

The rate peaked at 11.4 percent in late 2009 and early 2010, while Gov. Charlie Crist was still in office. It was during the same time as a national economic crisis, which Florida was particularly hit hard because of its dependence on homebuilding and tourism — which suffered during the economic downturn.

However, that rate started to drop in April 2010, and was down to 10.9 percent when Scott took office in 2011. The rate would then not drop below 7 percent until September 2013, and has essentially remained flat at around 6.3 percent since last December.

The rate is still significantly higher than what it was in 2006, where the rate hovered around 3.3 percent.

In August, Florida’s unemployment rate was ranked 26th in the nation, tied with Arkansas and Missouri, according to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. Georgia that month had the worst rate at 8.1 percent, while North Dakota could be statistically labeled as “fully employed” with a 2.8 percent rate.

Of the top five most populous states, with Florida ranked fourth with 19.6 million people, California was ranked 44th nationally in August with a 7.4 percent rate, New York was ranked 29th at 6.4 percent, Texas ranked 16th at 5.3 percent, and Illinois ranked 36th at 6.7 percent.

The governor’s office did point out other positive trends in the economy, including a 33.7 percent backlog reduction in existing homes on the market since December 2011, as well as a 2.9-percent increase in home prices in August compared to the previous year.

In September, Florida’s 24 regional work force boards reported more than 43,800 people were placed in jobs. This number is based on those who seek employment and training assistance through the center and finds a job with 180 days. Of that number, nearly 9,400 of them had been receiving unemployment benefits.

Saint Leo opens BB&T Center for Innovation & Technology

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Saint Leo University has opened the BB&T Center for Innovation & Technology at the Donald R. Tapia School of Business.

The center was made possible by a donation from BB&T Bank, and encompasses the fourth floor of the business school building. The highlights include a cybersecurity laboratory, which supports the teaching of the university’s new master’s degree in the field, as well as a collaboration zone, where business students work on real-world projects for area companies and nonprofits.

Kenneth Coppedge, West Florida regional president for BB&T, heads a nine-county region stretching from Hernando to Collier counties, and noted in a release that if he “were a young person, this is the area of opportunity that I would want to be a part of.”

The cybersecurity program now offered on the main campus will be offered online in the near future.

Saint Leo is a regionally accredited, liberal arts-based institution located in St. Leo. It was chartered in 1889 by Catholic Benedictine monks, and over the past 125 years, has provided education to people of all faiths.

The school has 16,000 undergraduate and graduate students at both the main campus in Pasco County, as well as 40 teaching locations in seven states.

TaxWatch: Reduce prison population, release the elderly

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With Florida’s prison population continuing to rise despite the decline in crime rates, a statewide tax advocacy group is making a suggestion on how to make more room: Release elderly prisoners.

Florida TaxWatch has released a report in aging prisoners, warning that the steadily growing elderly prison population in state facilities will require more costly medical care, resulting in additional budget concerns for an already struggling state Department of Corrections.

“Community safety is the first thing to consider when addressing criminal justice reform, but Florida has options to reduce costs and actually improve public safety,” said Dominic Calabro, president and chief executive of Florida TaxWatch, in a release. “Florida taxpayers and policymakers must understand the rapidly incurring costs that accompany aging prisoners so that smart policies can be pursued that prevent either ballooning costs or quick fixes to jeopardize the safety and security of Florida citizens.”

The group’s analysis estimates that by the end of next year, nearly 4,100 additional prisoners will join the ranks of the elderly, bringing the total to nearly 25,000. The average health care costs for each of these prisoners are estimated to be $11,000.

The report suggests the state consider clemency or early release for elderly non-violent offenders who are nearing release dates, or are requiring end-of-life care.

“Understanding the future obligations Florida taxpayers will have for the criminal justice system will ensure our policymakers are prepared to budget for corrections costs,” Calabro said.

The group also is recommending reporting requirements for elderly prisoners’ health care costs, and the projections of elderly prison growth.

All about the food at Grand Horizons

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Grand Horizons hosted a potluck Sept. 1 with 86 residents celebrating Labor Day.

Chris Fulton told me there was so much food that if you walked away hungry, it was your own fault.

Hosting this event were Mim and Terry Gardner, along with Chris and Rich Fulton. Terry and Rich were working on the hamburgers, while Clayton George was preparing the hot dogs. If this potluck was anything like we had previously, I am sure there was enough food for seconds.

Chris then went on to say that after the potluck, several people stayed for a stimulating game of Mexican train, which is always fun. Some people watched the new television set that the community center recently acquired.

They sure made the most of it and had a good time. Our thanks go out to all who helped.

On Sept. 9, nine women attended a luncheon at ABC Pizza. This was the time for the Ladies Lunch Bunch, hosted by Joyce Bell.

Joyce had only good things to say. ABC Pizza has a buffet from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., that consisted of salad, soup and several kinds of pizza. She also mentioned that the restaurant was clean and very inviting.

Joyce was glad to see some new people there, and she can’t wait to see it grow more when all come back from being in other places during the summer months. Joyce went on to say that she hopes to do some exciting things in the future months.

Our thanks go to Joyce and her helpers on this Ladies Lunch Bunch.

There was a lunch connoisseurs at Hellas Bakery and Restaurant in Tarpon Springs on Sept. 12. About 25 people were there to enjoy the food, the company and the shopping that they did after the meal.

Sam Sage said it was quite warm that day so not too many shoppers. She also mentioned that Hellas is known for its flaming cheese that is delivered to the table, and when this cheese is placed in front of the person, alcohol is poured over it so they can create a flame. It is a show in itself.

This is a Greek restaurant, and while I have never been there, it sounds charming. The people who attended were in a tremendous room, but on a platform, several steps up. Therefore, they could watch the entire restaurant below.

Adjoining this room is a bakery where you can take home some goodies or have it delivered to your table.

The hosts for this outing were Fred and Sam Sage.

There was a farewell luncheon on Sept. 26 at Texas Roadhouse for Bill and Judy Ellsworth from Grand Horizons, according to Jenny Molinek. There were 54 of their friends from Grand Horizons attending to wish them luck, enjoy the delicious food, and thank them for all their hard work volunteering for the community.

Bill and Judy are moving back to Tennessee to be closer to their family, and they will be missed by all of us. Everyone wishes them the best.

Carol George and Jenny Molinek hosted this lunch. Again, our thanks go out to the hosts.

They did a great job, and I am sure it was appreciated by all.

By Helene Rubenstein

Published October 15, 2014

Be ready for tragedy by making an inventory now

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Storm season continues on, and the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America is urging homeowners, renters and business owners to create an inventory in case they need help replacing items.

This can help in the recovery process, PCI said, which they say often is a stressful situation.

“It’s important to create an inventory of what’s inside your home or business,” said Chris Hackett, director of personal lines for PCI, in a release. “It only takes a few minutes, and could save you hours of trying to determine exactly what you lost.”

One way to do that is to use the video feature on a smartphone to capture images of those items, and then store that video somewhere safe, like even in an off-site cloud. If something were to happen to those belongings, they can more easily be reported lost or damaged to an insurance company or agent.

In addition to video, inventories can be completed in a variety of ways using online tools, apps, or specially designed software, PCI said. Several insurance companies have home inventory apps that can be downloaded as well.

PCI offers this checklist to homeowners, renters and business owners:

• Talk with your insurance agent or company about your insurance policy. Check your deductible and make sure you have a solid understanding of your current coverage.

• Assess whether you have adequate home, auto and other property coverage. Property damage can take a tremendous financial and mental toll. Knowing you have proper coverage will give you peace of mind.

• Review additional coverage options, particularly flood coverage. Heavy rains and storm surge can cause extensive flood damage in coastal and inland areas.

PCI is composed of more than 1,000 member companies, writing more than $195 billion in annual premium, 39 percent of the nation’s property casualty insurance.

Drone conference coming to Wesley Chapel

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The Pasco Economic Development Council will host the first Tampa Bay Unmanned Aerial Systems Commercial Markets Conference Oct. 30 from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at the Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch.

Networking for the event begins at 7:30 a.m., and will include talks about the latest developments in both Tampa Bay and Florida around the emerging small unmanned aerial systems industry, more commonly known as drones.

Although it’s probably best known for its American military use, the growth of much smaller applications is believed to be on its way to becoming one of the major economic and technological stories of the 21st century, according to a release.

One of the key challenges facing the industry, however, is the regulation of unmanned operations in civilian airspace, officials said. Those in attendance want to engage public officials and economic development leaders to consider how they can “untether the industry” and foster its rapid development.

The event is co-sponsored by the Association of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Systems International, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council, the Pasco EDC, PHSC, USF Connect, the Tampa Bay Partnership, and Turin Aviation Group.

Cost to attend is $30 per person. For information, visit PascoEDC.com/events, or call (813) 926-0827.

In Print: Pasco’s day without public transit

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Unless you were heading to the post office or bank on Monday, chances are you probably didn’t realize the nation celebrated Columbus Day this past week.

There were no riders at bus stops on Monday. Although Pasco County was technically open on Columbus Day, many departments — including Pasco County Public Transportation — were closed for employee training. (Michael Hinman/Staff Photo)
There were no riders at bus stops on Monday. Although Pasco County was technically open on Columbus Day, many departments — including Pasco County Public Transportation — were closed for employee training. (Michael Hinman/Staff Photo)

The holiday, meant to recognize explorer Christopher Columbus and his trip to North America in the 15th century, is technically a federal holiday, but not really recognized as one that closes many businesses or schools. Except for Pasco County government.

Not that county workers weren’t on the clock Monday — they just were not available to provide services to residents, instead taking part in a twice-yearly training and appreciation day. And it also meant that people who did need to go to work — especially those who depend on public transportation — were looking for other ways to get there Monday.

“We don’t have the opportunity to train our work units as a team,” Pasco County administrator Michele Baker told reporter Michael Hinman. “The only way to give good training and to improve our customer service, and improve the level of service to our customers, is to do a timeout.”

Columbus Day was a day when bus ridership was historically low, Baker said. It’s important to have drivers and other workers with the bus lines attend the training, because they don’t typically get it otherwise.

But not everyone fully supports shutting down the bus lines on a work day. Erika Remsberg, who is running against Mike Moore for Pasco County Commission, worried about how it might affect people who need a ride to their job.

“The extend of those consequences may not be realizes or assessed,” Remsberg said. “My hope is this is such a critical training event that it will increase productivity (and) customer service more than it will hurt the folks who will lose a day’s pay, delay their (medical) treatment, or prevent them from getting groceries for their families.”

What do riders think who tried to catch the bus on Monday? Find out in this week’s print edition of The Laker/Lutz News, now available throughout Pasco and northern Hillsborough counties, and also online with our free e-edition by clicking here.

October is a month where it’s easy to find pink, as many people work together to raise money to help fight breast cancer. While the medical condition is primarily associated with women, breast cancer can be a problem among men, too.

Kriss Bowles knows, because 10 years ago, she lost her husband to breast cancer.

“He’d lay in a recliner to sleep,” Bowles told reporter B.C. Manion about her husband, Brock. “I would sit there and watch him sleep, and wonder what was going through his mind. Because he knew he was dying.”

Male breast cancer can be even more dangerous than it should be, primarily because it’s not common enough to require annual exams. But also because male breast cancer carries a stigma for many that checking for it would make men less “macho.”

What can men do to protect themselves from breast cancer? Find out in this week’s print edition of The Laker/Lutz News, available on newsstands and in driveways right now, or through our online e-edition by clicking here.

It’s a new rivalry, but one a lot of people are paying attention to. On Friday, the Land O’ Lakes Gators host the Sunlake Seahawks in high school football’s Battle on U.S. 41, or pretty close.

Sunlake is coming in with a very strong 6-1 record, and looking to make a trip to the postseason. The Gators, at 3-3, are poised to play spoiler — especially as Land O’ Lakes remains the top-scoring team in the district, despite its record.

But what can fans expect come Friday? Well, for started, no one taking anything for granted.

“Land O’ Lakes has a good football team,” Sunlake head coach Bill Browning told reporter Michael Murillo. “They obviously have a very good throwing game, so we have to be able to get lined up right, and be able to defend the pass against them.”

What’s worse, this is a game where everyone knows everyone else. No scouts are needed to see where the strengths and weaknesses are for both Sunlake and Land O’ Lakes.

“All the players know each other,” Browning said. “We’re right in each other’s backyard. It makes for a great rivalry game.”

Who has the edge? Draw your own conclusions after reading the full story, found in the sports section of this week’s print edition of The Laker/Lutz News. And if you can’t wait to get your copy, check out the free online e-edition right here.

And finally, photojournalist Fred Bellet has some great pictures to share from the recent Peace Week at Pasco-Hernando State College. See what happens when Tibetan monks get a hold of colored sand in a beautiful yet spiritual display, which can be found on the front of this week’s B-Section. See it online by clicking here.

All of these stories and more can be found in this week’s The Laker/Lutz News, available in newsstands throughout east and central Pasco County as well as northern Hillsborough County. Find out what has your community talking this week by getting your local news straight from the only source you need.

If The Laker/Lutz News is not coming to your door, call us to see where you can get your copy at (813) 909-2800, or read our free e-edition by clicking here.

Saint Leo recognized again for student diversity

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Saint Leo University once again is celebrating its focus on student diversity, earning another top 100 ranking for minority students from Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine.

The St. Leo-based school is ranked ninth nationwide for its number of African-American students earning a bachelor’s degree, and 31st in the nation of the same minority group working on a master’s degree.

Saint Leo also earned high rankings for the number of African-Americans in is graduate-level and associate-level courses, as well as for all minorities seeking a bachelor’s.

“We are pleased to again be included in these significant rankings by Diverse,” said Saint Leo president Arthur Kirk, in a release. “At Saint Leo University, students live and study with counterparts from many backgrounds, places and cultures. We are proud of our inclusive spirit, which is consistently reflected in these rankings as a top degree-granting institution for minority students. We were particularly pleased that we increased our ranking in several categories.”

The Oct. 9 edition of the magazine identifies the top 100 undergraduate and graduate minority degree producers among U.S. colleges and universities. The data is compiled exclusively for the magazine by Victor Borden of Indianapolis. It’s part of his national report documenting the ability of American colleges to award degrees to African-American, Hispanic, Asian-American and Native American students.

Pet dangers are lurking on Halloween

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With goblins, ghosts and creatures of every size and shape creeping around the neighborhood, Halloween can be frightening for the bravest of souls.

It can be especially frightful for pets and pet owners. Even the most responsible pet owner may not know all of the dangers lurking around their beloved pet during this time of year.

Thankfully, the nightmares can be avoided.

Halloween can actually be a fun and festive time for both pets and owners. These steps will help keep pets safe and away from the hidden hazards of this October holiday.

• Trick-or-treat candies are not for pets. All forms of chocolate — especially baking or dark chocolate — can be dangerous, and even lethal, for dogs and cats. Symptoms of chocolate poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, increase heart rate, and seizures.

Halloween candies containing artificial sweetener Xylitol can also be poisonous to dogs. Even small amounts of Xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and subsequent loss of coordination and seizures.

While Xylitol’s toxicity in cats has yet to be established, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

• Don’t leave pets out in the yard on Halloween. Surprisingly, vicious pranksters have been known to tease, injure, steal and even kill pets on Halloween night. Inexcusable? Yes. But preventable, nonetheless.

• Keep pets confined, and away from the door. Not only will a door be constantly opening and closing on Halloween, but strangers will be dressed in unusual costumes and yelling loudly for their candy.

This, of course, can be scary for furry friends. Dogs are especially territorial, and may become anxious and growl at innocent trick-or-treaters. Putting a dog or cat in a secure room away from the front door also will prevent them from darting outside into the night.

• Keep outdoor cats inside several days before, and several days after Halloween. Black cats are especially at risk from pranks or other cruelty-related incidents. In fact, many shelters do not adopt our black cats during October as a safety precaution.

• Keep Halloween plants such as pumpkins and corn out of reach. Although they are relatively non-toxic, such plants can induce gastrointestinal upset should pets ingest them in large quantities. Intestinal blockage can even occur if large pieces are swallowed.

• Don’t keep lit pumpkins around pets. Should they get too close, they run the risk of burning themselves, or knocking it over and causing a fire.

• Keep wires and electric light cords out of reach. If chewed, a pet can cut himself on shards of glass or plastic, or receive a life-threatening electrical shock.

• Don’t dress a pet in a costume, unless you know they’ll love it. If you do decide that Fido or Kitty needs a costume, make sure it isn’t annoying or unsafe. It should not constrict movement, hearing, or the ability to breathe, or bark, or meow.

• Try on pet costumes before the big night. If they seem distressed, allergic, or show abnormal behavior, consider letting them go in their “birthday suit.” Festive bandanas usually work for party poopers, too.

• IDs please! If a dog or cat should escape and become lost, having the proper identification will increase chances that they will be returned. Just make sure the information is up-to-date, even if a pet does have a microchip.