The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

School grades not what Pasco had hoped for

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Report card grades are important for students, especially at the end of the year. But they’re just as important for the schools themselves, with Pasco County Schools seeing some room for improvement.

Schools in the district saw grades drop this year, with fewer schools receiving marks of A and B, and more getting the dreaded marks of D and F, according to a release.

However, five schools rose a grade, including Taylor, Lacoochee and Giella elementary schools, as well as Pasco and Rushe middle schools. The elementary schools and Pasco Middle stepped up from Ds to Cs, while Rushe improved from a B to an A.

There remains some question on what the final elementary school grades are going to be, the district said, especially since Pasco is among several districts questioning fourth-grade writing scores. Some superintendents, including Pasco’s Kurt Browning, believe it has caused lower-than-expected grades for elementary schools in the district, where 15 maintained their grades, and 25 actually saw their grades drop.

Overall, six elementary schools earned an A, eight received a B, 14 a C, 12 a D, and five an F. Of the 15 middle schools, three were graded an A, another three a B, two a C, six a D, and none received an F. Both Long and Seven Springs middle schools maintained their A grades.

“These are very challenging times,” Browning said, in a release. “Providing stability and clarity to the school accountability system during the transition to new standards is almost impossible as we attempt to prepare for the future and continue to test the past.”

The Laker wins top state prizes for reporting

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The elevated toll road and flood insurance rates were two big stories that had the community talking last year. And now they have the state talking.

The Laker news editor Michael Hinman won two reporting awards at the Florida Press Association's annual conference Friday in Coral Gables. (Photo by Karel Ortiz-Tavarez)
The Laker news editor Michael Hinman won two reporting awards at the Florida Press Association’s annual conference Friday in Coral Gables. (Photo by Karel Ortiz-Tavarez)

The Laker news editor Michael Hinman was recognized by the Florida Press Association Friday during its annual conference in Coral Gables, winning first place in local government reporting and general news story.

The Laker competed in the top circulation category in the state, against similar weeklies with circulation of 15,000 or more.

In local government, Hinman took the top prize on a series of stories about the proposed elevated toll road a private company had wanted to build in Pasco County, before those plans were cancelled earlier this year. That included a story looking into private toll roads in general, and their economic viability.

Judges called them a “well-researched series of articles on the proposed elevated toll road. Looked at pitfalls of similar projects, and presented the pros and cons of the road.”

In general news, Hinman was recognized for his story on a town hall meeting hosted by U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Palm Harbor, of a “critical issue” facing homeowners: rising flood insurance rates.

“Nice use of observation to capture the mood at the meeting, ‘Groans, interruptions, occasional applause,'” judges said about the story. “Concise explanation of the impact of the Reform Act.”

The Florida Press Association is a statewide organization that promotes weekly and daily newspapers. Its annual Better Weekly Newspaper Contest recognizes strong reporting, photography, online work and graphical art work among all its member newspapers in Florida.

Crisis Center to host ‘Voices of Men’

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The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is hosting a free, one-night only performance of the one-person play “Voices of Men.”

It will take place July 17 at 7 p.m., at Stageworks Theater, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., in Tampa.

The play, from Ben Atherton-Zeman, is an informative one that deals with issues such as sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence and sexual harassment, officials said. It’s part of the Crisis Center’s efforts to build a network of leaders committed to engaging men in a community effort to end violence. The initiative is funded by a grant from the Verizon Foundation that allows for six months of grassroots mobilizing.

Atherton-Zeman is the spokesman for Men Against Sexism, and a public speaker on issues of violence prevention. He uses humor, celebrity male voice impressions, and video clips to help promote learning and understanding.

Those wishing to register can do so by clicking here, or visiting CrisisCenter.com.

Hillsborough, Pasco among biggest recyclers

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Hillsborough County received some fresh news about its effort to save the environment: The county is one of the biggest recyclers in the state.

And Pasco County isn’t far behind.

A new report from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection showed Hillsborough had a combined total recycling rate of 73 percent in 2013, when incorporating renewable energy credits from waste-to-energy production. Pasco was third-best in the state at around 68 percent, with Lee County taking the runners-up slot at 70 percent.

The state average is just below 50 percent.

Hillsborough and Tampa officials both utilize waste-to-energy facilities as a primary solid waste disposal method, according to a release. That creates renewable energy and reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills.

Renewable energy credits, calculated based on the amount of renewable energy produced using solid waste as fuel, largely influenced the county’s overall recycling rate, officials said.

Hillsborough collected 7.74 pounds of trash per day, per person, totaling 1.8 million tons of solid waste. Of that solid waste, 775,000 tons were directly recycled, and other waste generated 547,000 megawatts of renewable energy — enough to fully power more than 300,000 homes.

Pasco collected 662,700 tons of solid waste, recycling 237,000 tons.

To see the full report, click here.

Alligator surprises Gem Estates residents

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What a surprise when my neighbor, Janet Clarke, knocked on my door to tell me there was an alligator down on Rockford Avenue.

I seriously thought, “You got to be kidding.” But Russ and I got into our golf cart and rode down to Rockford Avenue. And sure enough, there were three sheriff cars blocking the road, and three deputies up by the house trying to capture a four-foot alligator thrashing around and trying to get away from the men.

Finally, it was subdued enough for them to tape shut the mouth and throw a raincoat over it, and it was hauled off somewhere where there was water.

Wish I would have taken my camera to take some pictures, because the people up north probably wouldn’t believe it.

Our coffee socials are basically that, socials. The attendance has been very sparse, but it’s still a way for those of us that remain for the summer to get together.

We recently learned Chuck Newman had a shoulder replacement, and his daughter, Vicki Bluhm recently had knee replacement. Both are doing well.

Neva Roy is at her home after being at the Heritage Park Health & Rehabilitation in Dade City. Her son is staying with her for the time being.

Several of us are planning to go to Branson, Missouri, again, but we need a few more passengers. If anyone is interested in going Nov. 12-19, we’ll have 11 meals, six good shows, and $70 free play at two hotels.

You can still join us by calling me at (813) 780-1012. We would love to have you.

By Lee Heffelfinger

Published July 9, 2014

Ice cream hits the spot at Grand Horizons

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The activities continue at Grand Horizons. Because of the summer months, some things are continuing, while some activities are on hiatus until the fall starts.

The many that continue include the ladies luncheon known as The Lunch Bunch. True, there was less of a turnout for June, but they sure had a good time and made the most of it.

Annmarie Shackewyc shows off a few of the colorful note cards made in a craft class. (Courtesy of Grand Horizons)
Annmarie Shackewyc shows off a few of the colorful note cards made in a craft class.
(Courtesy of Grand Horizons)

Approximately seven women showed up June 3 to have lunch at Capri Pizza & More restaurant, located across the street from Grand Horizons. This was a treat in itself, as during the winter months the group couldn’t go there as the seating is limited.

But, it is perfect during the summer months as there was a small group of women, and they sure had a good time.

If you’ve never gone to Capri Pizza, it is a delightful, family-owned restaurant. The women had their choice of spaghetti, lasagna, pizza, macaroni and other fantastic dishes. Barbara Janelle hosted the luncheon, and when I spoke to her she reported that it may have been a small group, but each woman seemed to enjoy herself.

Barbara went on to say that the inside was decorated with pictures hanging on the walls. It not only had pictures of personnel, but others as well. It has a cozy atmosphere, and since I have gone there before, I can definitely vouch for it.

Whatever we have had at this restaurant was always delicious, and my husband and I have always walked out content. So you can see that the summer months do not pose a problem for The Lunch Bunch as they pick out a restaurant that is close-by and has good food.

Then, on June 8, there was an ice cream social in the community center with approximately 50 people hosted by Rosemary Semian. She did a fine job as they had different ice creams and loads of toppings.

From what Rosemary told me, they had bananas, strawberries and pineapples, plus whipped cream and also cherries. Just writing this paints a vivid picture!

After ice cream, while some people went to walk off what they had, others stayed to have a friendly game of euchre. It sounds to me that Rosemary did a fine job. Our thanks go out to her.

In between, while they had their activities that go on a regular basis such as dominoes, shuffleboard, Wednesday coffee and doughnuts, etc., there was also a craft class June 10. Marcia Johnson led the class in making notecards. Marcia told me the cards were blank inside with colorful ladies on the front all dressed up in hats with feathers. I wasn’t there for this, but the finished product sounded really nice.

There are two ladies’ luncheons a month — the first called “The Lunch Bunch,” and one that met later in the month called “The Ladies of Grand Horizons” lunch group. This particular group met for lunch at Abbott Station, a restaurant located in Zephyrhills that is a lovely place to dine. This particular event was hosted by Luella Wheeling.

Luella said that the chef greeted everyone and made them comfortable. He made sure that whatever he served was to the person’s liking. She also mentioned that it was a nice size group considering the many people that are away for the summer months.

Abbott Station is known for its soups with pumpkin soup their specialty. They include one other soup, which is made fresh every day. They serve sandwiches that are big enough for seconds or doggie bags to take part of the meal home.

The inside of the restaurant has many pictures and other interesting memorabilia on the walls. There is also a lovely porch that is inside, and people can eat there and take in the surrounding area. I have gone here before and just know that all who attended got a lovely meal at a nearby location.

Grand Horizons will publish a new photo directory for residents. Photos were taken at certain times, with more dates to follow.

By Helene Rubenstein

Published July 9, 2014

Feds approve Overpass Road interchange on I-75

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The Federal Highway Administration has given a green light to the new Interstate 75 interchange that will be built on Overpass Road, not far from Wesley Chapel District Park.

“This is a huge accomplishment, as all new interchange requests along the interstate system go up to Washington, D.C., for approval,” Florida Department of Transportation District 7 secretary Paul Steinman told Pasco County commissioners Tuesday, according to a release.

The Overpass Road interchange will provide additional access in the Wesley Chapel area, which has experienced a large population growth, as well as East Pasco County, where several developments have been approved or are in various stages of planning or construction, such as Pasadena Hills.

The new road will help divert traffic from existing interchanges on State Road 54, State Road 52 and State Road 56.

The county will have eight years to get the interchange ready to go, or the approval process would have to be reinitiated, county planning and development director Richard Gehring told commissioners, according to a release. The county would have to dip into mobility fees, Penny for Pasco, as well as “special contributions” from the Villages of Pasadena Hills, to get it going.

The initial cost estimate of the new interchange is $55 million.

See the July 16 edition of The Laker/Lutz News for more details on the new interchange.

 

Mental health tune-ups for Pasco County residents

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NTBHMain
Spend a few minutes with Jim Harris, CEO of North Tampa Behavioral Health in Wesley Chapel (NTBH), and you’ll catch his enthusiasm. He and his staff are committed to providing the very best care and support for people experiencing mental health issues.

“Sometimes the challenges of life can overwhelm us,” says Jim. “Many of us will experience a mental health issue at some point in our life – grief, loss, loneliness, depression, addiction. We’re here to help people work through their mental health concerns.”

North Tampa Behavioral Health provides a non-institutional environment on 16 acres of wetlands and forest off of State Road 56, east of The Shops at Wiregrass. The campus offers peace and quiet without urban distractions.

“We want to set the standard for the treatment of behavioral health and addiction disorders,” says Jim. “We have a unique half-day, partial hospitalization program and an intensive outpatient program for the treatment of adults and seniors with mental health and substance abuse conditions.”

NTBH is more than just a productive member of the community. They are making their facilities available for various support group meetings. The National Alliance on Mental Illness currently provides free support group meetings on the first and third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m., for families experiencing mental health issues or who have friends receiving mental health care.

“We currently have 143 employees contributing to the economic health of the region,” says Jim. “The resources we use come from the local community as much as possible. We are also a provider working to enhance mental health awareness and wellness of the citizens of Pasco County.”

“Our treatment focuses on the whole person,” says Jim. “We believe that physical health and nutritional health play a role in mental health, and we address that daily here.”

They have an indoor gym with stationary bicycles, workout bags and a basketball court. They also host yoga classes in the gym. Outdoors they have a basketball court, a walking path and spaces to relax, read and converse. There are also a number of spacious community rooms and a cafe with a selection of nutritious foods available during all meals.

“Our goal is to bring together mental and physical health approaches to psychiatric therapies founded on the most current principles of patient safety,” says Jim. “We are a progressive facility. For example, there are no mechanical restraints for patients, which is rare for a psychiatric hospital. Suggestions from our patients are continually improving our facility.”

All programs are group-oriented and developmentally appropriate to the client. Inpatient care is short-term. Outpatient care may go on longer depending on the client’s needs. The partial hospital program is 5 days per week for 5 hours per day. The intensive outpatient program is 3 days per week for 3 hours per day.

They became a Baker Act facility in February 2014 and have since been working closely with law enforcement and local hospitals to treat involuntary patients who are deemed a threat to themselves or others due to mental health or substance abuse issues.

North Tampa Behavioral Health has been very successful to date. They are continuing to develop relationships with local hospitals, independent practitioners, clinics, colleges and chambers of commerce. They are in the process of starting an alumni group for people who have been treated at the facility as another way to further support the community. Call them for an assessment or referral.

They are located at 29910 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, and can be reached at (813) 922-3300. Their website is NorthTampaBehavioralHealth.com.

– Mike Matthew

This story is a feature of the advertising department.

 

In Print: Don’t miss Fourth of July, we have pics

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What did you do on the Fourth of July? Well, hopefully you didn’t stay home, because there were plenty of options, which as a regular reader of The Laker/Lutz News, you already knew about.

Bridget Richwine, second from right, helped her sons get into the Fourth of July spirit with hats she made for C.J., 11, at right, and Ben, 5. Grandmother Chloie Adkins, far left, looks on. (Photo by Michael Hinman)
Bridget Richwine, second from right, helped her sons get into the Fourth of July spirit with hats she made for C.J., 11, at right, and Ben, 5. Grandmother Chloie Adkins, far left, looks on. (Photo by Michael Hinman)

The Shops at Wiregrass kicked things off with its annual Fourth of July celebration July 3, complete with bicycle decorating contests, watermelon eating and Miss and Mr. Firecracker. It continued Friday morning in Lutz with its annual Fourth of July parade, which had large crowds lined up along Lutz Lake Fern Road leading into the Lutz Depot.

And if that wasn’t enough, the fun continued Saturday in places like Avalon West and Connerton, with booths, games and fireworks.

Want to see some of the great images from those events? Well, you can find them right now in this week’s print edition of The Laker/Lutz News. If you don’t have a newspaper in front of you, you can see all the picture in our free e-edition by clicking here.

Also, a Lutz News reader, Tracy Gaschler, submitted some of her own pictures from the Lutz parade. You can check those out on our Facebook page by clicking here.

If you were at any of those Fourth of July events, then there’s no doubt in your mind that we’re in the middle of summer, and it can be hot. But how do you enjoy the sun and fun, without ending up in the emergency room?

Three local doctors from places like Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel and St. Joseph’s Hospital-North shared some advice on how to stay safe while celebrating summer whether it’s on the road, in the water, or in the outdoors.

But it’s not just about keeping yourself safe, but children, too. And they require constant vigilance, especially when they are in the water.

“Don’t take a break to get on the phone,” Dr. Javier Gonzalez, assistant medical director of the emergency department at the Zephyrhills hospital, told reporter B.C. Manion. “I hear that all the time, ‘I just went out for a second to speak to somebody or to  pick up the phone.’ Before they know it, two minutes have passed by and the child is dead at the bottom of the pool.”

Another key safety tip is to stay hydrated, and not just when you’re in the heat — but drinking plenty of water before you go out is essential too.

“You’re losing water with every breath you take, you’re losing water with the heat itself,” said Dr. Michael Longley, medical director of the emergency department at the Wesley Chapel hospital. “You’re losing water with sweating and you’re losing water with the activity that you’re doing. It’s compounded and there’s just no way to keep up if the tank isn’t full to being with.”

To see what else these doctors, along with Dr. Katrina Cordero, has to say about summertime protection, check out the print edition of this week’s The Laker/Lutz News, or you can read it for free in our e-edition by clicking here.

Finally, Pasco County sheriff Chris Nocco learned Tuesday that the first draft of the county’s budget for the next year will include more than $5 million he’s requested in additional funds to help stave off the departure of deputies to neighboring counties. But what is the long-term plan for the sheriff’s office?

Probably the biggest thing on the drawing board is creating a fourth district for deputies, based out of the Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel area.

“we are going to need many more deputies, and we’re going to need a fourth district in the (State Road) 54 corridor,” Nocco told reporter Michael Hinman. “We need to have a stronger presence in the Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel area. Deputies who serve that area right now are based out of Dade City, and there has to be something much closer to serve those needs.”

However, many of those plans will require money — something Nocco believes Pasco County commissioners are supportive, since public safety is a key factor to continued growth and happy residents.

“We are not wasting taxpayer dollars,” Nocco said. “Instead, we are very efficient. I know our commissioners are being pulled in a thousand different directions, but I also think they realize that public safety is a priority.”

You can read more about Nocco’s plans in the print edition of The Laker, or you can read our free e-edition 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.

Cindy Perkins ‘elected’ Lutz Guv’na for 2014

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In the end, Cindy Perkins proved she could win an office — for a price.

The Lutz chiropractor topped four other candidates in charity fundraising efforts over the Fourth of July weekend, to succeed Suzin Carr as the new Lutz Guv’na.

Cindy Perkins, a Lutz-based chiropractor, is sworn in as the new Lutz Guv'na for 2014. (Photo by Suzanne Beauchaine)
Cindy Perkins, a Lutz-based chiropractor, is sworn in as the new Lutz Guv’na for 2014. (Photo by Suzanne Beauchaine)

Perkins, who originally hails from a small town in Minnesota, told the Lutz News last month she enjoys the small-town feel that Lutz provides. The long-standing Guv’na event shows that while Lutz might be part of a growing, larger metropolitan area, it hasn’t forgot about its roots.

“It really appeals to me that the money that’s raised through the Guv’na campaign goes back to local schools or local nonprofits or the library,” Perkins said before the “election.”

Joining Perkins in seeking the Guv’na office were Liane Caruso of Limelight Marketing, Susan Gulash of Gulash Graphics, Lutz Volunteer Fire Association president Jay Muffly, and Soccer Gemz director Jerome Smalls.