The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Gas prices still climbing … thanks to Russia?

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A gallon of gas in the greater Tampa Bay area is 8 cents more expensive than it was a month ago, and at least part of the blame can land at the feet of Vladimir Putin.

Auto club group AAA says gas prices in the state are at their highest level since last September — $3.56 in Florida, and $3.49 locally — because of shorter supplies of ethanol and continued tension in Europe between Russia and the Ukraine.

“When there is no ethanol blend in the gasoline, you could see the price of gas increase,” said Mark Jenkins, AAA spokesman, in a release. “That is because a higher costing product, premium gasoline, is being used to increase the octane level.”

Gas prices in most areas of Florida can contain as much as 10 percent ethanol, which helps keep prices down but octane levels where they need to be. When ethanol is in short supply, petroleum companies instead have to use more expensive gasoline to make a blend that remains at 87-octane grade material, according to the Oil Price Information Service.

On top of that, tensions in the Ukraine could disrupt supply that runs through and from the country, which could cause prices to spike.

Gasoline prices have remained mostly steady over the past week, and is still cheaper than the $3.59 per gallon reported a year ago. The highest gas has ever been was in July 2008 when regular unleaded topped $4.

Diesel has remained steady over the past year, currently at $4.05 per gallon, compared to $4.03 in March 2013. Its highest price was $4.82, also in July 2008.

But there is good news on the horizon. Although there is the potential that gas could climb another 20 cents per gallon in the coming weeks nationally, it is expected to start falling as April continues on. That will especially be the case when gas stations switch over to its summer blend gasoline May 1.

Prices in March typically climb 20 cents during March, but so far this year, that average has been 8 cents nationwide. AAA says it’s not expecting prices to finish as high as they were last year.

The most expensive gas in Florida is in West Palm Beach where prices are $3.67 per gallon. The cheapest is in Tallahassee at $3.45 for regular unleaded.

City manager fights for job Monday night

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Jim Drumm is feeling the same pressure his predecessor Steve Spina did for many years as the chief administrator for Zephyrhills: keeping his job as city manager.

Drumm, who was hired by the city in 2011, is facing some tough questions by a couple city council members who recently expressed concern about renewing his contract. And that could be just enough to force Drumm out.

Zephyrhills selected Drumm after an exhaustive search. At the time, Drumm had just left a similar position in High Springs, a city of 5,300. He resigned before the council there had a chance to terminate him in what published reports at the time called “philosophical differences” with the city council there.

There seems to be philosophical differences in Zephyrhills as well, with both Lance Smith and Ken Burgess both saying they won’t approve a new contract for Drumm citing, among other things, communication issues. Later, Zephyrhills city attorney Joe Poblick determined it would indeed take four of the five councilman to approve a contract for Drumm to continue in his position.

The city council meets Monday night beginning at 6, and Drumm’s future is on the agenda. However, no decision is expected to be reached at this meeting, that is if the council moves forward with a proposed workshop to discuss Drumm’s performance.

Spina retired from government work in 2011 soon after Drumm took over. While he worked on a variety of projects, including streetscaping downtown, the creation of the one-way road pairs parallel to Gall Boulevard, and a variety of other projects, it seemed he struggled to find appreciation from the council as well. However, in the end, Spina was able to depart on his own schedule and on his own terms after 15 years.

Housing recovery proven by Connerton success

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Connerton is trumpeting evidence of a housing recovery in Florida after selling 70 new homes in the past year, and projecting to do 120 more in 2014.

The reason for its success has come from moves its developer, Hayman Woods, did during the housing crisis, according to a release. And it started with protecting the investments of the 300 families already living there, while at the same time preparing for new buyers.

Among the things the Dallas-based developer did was:

* Pay subsidies to the homeowners association, which allowed club amenities to continue to operate at a high level throughout the downturn.

* Made what it called a substantial investment in the community development district to make sure landscaping, security and infrastructure were maintained.

* Provided incentives to bring quality home builders into the community and restart construction in early 2013. Those companies include Ryland Homes, M/I Homes, Taylor Morrison and Homes by WestBay. There are six furnished models available from these builders.

“The investments we made during the downturn are really paying dividends now,” said John Helton, senior managing director of Hayman Woods, in a release. “While lesser communities struggled and changed course, we believed in preserving the vision and continuing with the quality execution that sets Connerton apart.”

Houses at Connerton are priced between $191,990 and $524,990.

The community is located on U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes, and features two miles of nature trails, a 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, and miles of winding roads and walkways.

Region added 3,300 construction jobs in January

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It may not lead the nation, or even the state, but the Tampa Bay region added 3,300 construction jobs in January compared to the year before, fueling a 6 percent increase in the industry.

That’s part of a new report from Associated General Contractors of America, which warned that while growth is always good, the region and the country still has room to rebound.

“It is a sign of the continued strengthening of the construction industry that nearly 60 percent of metros added construction jobs from a year earlier despite the severe winter conditions in much of the country this January,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist, in a release. “Nevertheless, the industry’s recovery has a long way to  go with only a smattering of metro areas exceeding their previous peak January level of employment.

The largest construction growth came from the greater Los Angeles area, which added 8,100 jobs, followed by the Houston region in Texas with 7,900 jobs.

Florida added 36,900 construction jobs, creating 11 percent growth year-over-year. That was led by the Fort Lauderdale area with 4,400 jobs — ranked 16th in the nation — and Orlando with 4,200 jobs, ranked 41st in the nation. Tampa Bay was ranked 89th.

Only two regions of Florida showed no growth. Gainesville lost 400 jobs, or 9 percent of its workforce, while the Panama City area was flat.

Tampa Bay still has the most construction workers in the state with 56,700, followed by Orlando with 51,000 and Fort Lauderdale with 35,600.

There could be some problems coming this summer when it’s anticipated that some federally funded transportation projects will dry up, the association said. Congress and the Obama administration will need to find ways to fund that shortfall in order to prevent the loss of construction jobs in the coming months, said Stephen Sandherr, the association’s chief executive.

The complete state-by-state ranking can be found by clicking here.

Group says pay raises for public lawyers will save taxpayer money

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It’s not too often a claim comes around that spending more money will ultimately save money.

But advocacy group Florida TaxWatch is saying just that after a review of income state attorneys and public defenders receive in the state. Their findings revealed that starting pay for those positions in the state are well below the national average, and are among the lowest in the country.

Because of that, there are high turnover rates in both fields, which cause delays in the courts and far more taxpayer-funded investment to train new employees — estimated at more than $15 million a year.

“If Florida expects our criminal justice system to deliver timely and effective justice, we must wisely invest in those who are responsible for carrying it out,” said Dominic Calabro, president and chief executive of Florida TaxWatch, in a release. “Paying our assistant state attorneys and assistant public defenders closer to the rest of the nation will ensure our tax dollars are not wasted on high turnover costs and lower productivity, and that our criminal justice system is in the best hands our state can find.”

Pay shortages for state attorneys and public defenders range from $30,000 to $50,000 in the first three years of employment, which creates turnover rates that exceed 20 percent, the group said. Because the job duties are extensive and the demands difficult, it costs taxpayers more to recruit and retrain replacements than it would to just increase their salaries in the first place.

For example, if pay raises were given to increase starting salary to $50,000 for attorneys in those positions, it would only cost $5.2 million annually. If that higher pay cut turnover in half, it would actually save taxpayers $5 million, group leaders said.

Prosecutors and public defenders often incur sizable debt to complete law school, and must pass the Florida Bar examination before being eligible for appointment. Yet, their starting wages are typically around $41,700 a year, which is $20,000 less than the average starting annual salary for prosecutors and public defenders in states with comparable crime.

To read the full Florida TaxWatch report, click here.

Florida Hospital hosts cancer symposium

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Florida Hospital Tampa will host a cancer symposium focusing on breast, gastrointestinal and lung cancer March 25 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Speakers for the event include Drs. Charles Cox, Alexander Rosemurgy, Dragos Zanchi, Harvey Greenberg and Ron Schiff. They will be available for roundtables and breakout sessions highlighting information about physical therapy for cancer patients, palliative care and advice for caregivers.

The American Cancer Society said 1.66 million new cancer cases are expected to be diagnosed in 2014, and more than 585,000 will die this year — practically 1,600 people per day. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the United States, behind only heart disease.

The cancer society also said that cancers associated with lifestyles and behaviors related to economic development — including lung, breast and colorectal cancers — will continue to rise in developing countries if preventive measures are not widely applied, according to a release.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women, beaten only by lung cancer. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, but survival rates are continuing to rise.

Cancers of the gastrointestinal tract include esophageal, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, biliary and colorectal cancers. Pancreatic cancer affects approximately 45,000 people each year in the United States, with an almost equal number of deaths. It is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.

Lung cancer is the most common of all the cancers, accounting for more deaths annually than the next three forms of cancer combined — colon, breast and prostate. While the cancer traditionally has afflicted men more than women, the rates of lung cancer has risen in the past 25 years.

The symposium will be held at the USF Embassy Suites Hotel near the University of South Florida, 3705 Spectrum Blvd.

To register, visit FHTampa.org/CancerSymposium, or call (813) 615-7300.

Lawmakers propose a little help at the gas pump

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There are more than 9,000 gas stations in Florida, but only 350 of them offer any type of help for someone who might not be able to pump their gas on their own.

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Hillsborough County already requires gas stations to stick a decal on gas pumps on how those needing assistance pumping gas can get it. A new bill making its way through Tallahassee would make this the standard throughout Florida. (Photo by Michael Hinman)

Two lawmakers, however, are looking to change that — and are using Hillsborough County as a model.

State Rep. Mark Danish, D-Tampa, has joined forces with state Sen. Jeff Brandes, R-St. Petersburg, to introduce H.B. 185, which would require gas stations to post blue decals on pumps, providing information on how to “call for assistance.” Hillsborough County passed a similar ordinance in 2012, and some other counties have followed suit. However, just 4 percent of gas stations currently have such decals, according to lawmakers.

“This is a cost-effective option that will assist countless persons with disabilities across the state who struggle to refuel their gas,” Danish said in a release.

The bill already has received support from several organizations, including the Florida Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association, Paralyzed Veterans Association, Disabled American Veterans and AARP, according to a release.

The House version of the bill cleared its last hurdle Thursday, and is expected to head to the floor for a vote.

The law, if passed, won’t cost taxpayers any money. Instead, gas stations will have to pay for the stickers, estimated to cost less than $1 each. Gas stations will not be required, however, to provide any additional staffing to accommodate customers with special needs, however.

Meetings, luncheons, potlucks and more

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On Feb. 20, we attended a luncheon at Beef O’ Brady’s in Dade City.

The 11 women who attended seemed to have an enjoyable time. There was much to choose from the menu, and we had an area in the restaurant much like a private room.

Marion Mattos helps set out the potluck food so the residents can dig in. (Courtesy of Helene Rubenstein)
Marion Mattos helps set out the potluck food so the residents can dig in.
(Courtesy of Helene Rubenstein)

Barb Sullins hosted the luncheon, and she did a splendid job. There were two door prizes, which made for a delightful time. Our thanks go out to her for arranging this luncheon.

Later the same day, we had a meeting in our community center for new elections to update our homeowners association members. At this meeting we elected one new person, while the others were re-elected. We also verified that we have the appropriate numbers to be considered a 55-plus community.

On Feb. 22, we had approximately 60 residents enjoy a potluck meal. This also was hosted by Barb Sullins, Terry Satterlee, and assisted by Judy Ellsworth. Once again, all had a lovely time. Barb said grace before the meal, and it was a fine grace, as she said what needed to be said.

The potluck then started, and there seemed to be enough of a variety to choose from. If you didn’t like one dish, there was always another. Enough food was out there to accommodate seconds.

After the meal, about half of the people remained for a game night that consisted of dominoes, euchre, a marble game, and a game of jokers. It was a fun night, and people had a chance to learn some new games.

Our weeks continue with our regular activities like mahjong, hand and foot, poker, pool, pay me, and many other games including crafts.

Then, before we knew it, March 4 rolled around where we not only have bingo (which is an absolute delight and where everyone thinks that it may be their night to win), but we also have fun with art where we create many kinds of paintings. I find myself trying to create different kinds of outlines. It has gotten to the point where I look at completed paintings in a different light.

On the same day, some of the ladies went out to lunch for the Lunch Bunch. It was a mystery tour that day, and eight women joined in. It turned out that they went to Hooters.

This is the place that the guys go to once a month, and on this particular day the men were so surprised that the women were there. Some of the guys made cracks like, “I sure hope this won’t become a habit,” and other things. The men always come back in good humor. I wonder if it is the food that is so good or what?  What do you think?

Tuesday is not complete yet as we had pinochle in our community center. Jim Leitzke is the head of this group and also is an excellent teacher. It is a fun game and keeps you thinking. We are starting to build up a little group, so if you are a resident and are interested, come on down and join us.

The following day, March 5, found many of us at our community center for coffee and doughnuts. In addition we had a guest speaker, Robert Dragan, on the topic of physical therapy. He offered us tips on how to avoid common injuries for the 55-plus population, as well as give us advice regarding dealing with lifting a fallen person, balance problems and much more.  This was an informative discussion and we look forward to more like them.

We also had our blood pressure checked earlier in the day, and this is something important to keep track of. We usually have it done two times a month.

On March 6, it was pouring outside, but a nice size crowd showed up for our social club in our community center. Once here, we discussed many subjects that were being worked on. This is a good opportunity to find out what is happening in Grand Horizons and also to voice your opinion.

One of the things that we discussed was our yard sale on March 29. In addition to sales at some of the individual homes, we are going to have a rummage sale, book sale and bake sale in our community center, plus lunches will be sold. The time is from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Try to remember this event and circle it on your calendar, and come on down. You may find exactly what you have been looking for.

By Helene Rubenstein

Published March 19, 2014

March starts with a roar at Happy Days

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The annual Chinese auction was another great financial success. More than $800 went to the association.

Harry and Louise Rothrock celebrated their 70th anniversary this year at Happy Days’ annual 50th anniversary party. They also were voted the sweetheart couple of the year at the Valentine’s dance. Congratulations Harry and Louise! (Courtesy of Ian MarwicK)
Harry and Louise Rothrock celebrated their 70th anniversary this year at Happy Days’ annual 50th anniversary party. They also were voted the sweetheart couple of the year at the Valentine’s dance. Congratulations Harry and Louise!
(Courtesy of Ian MarwicK)

It was a big hoot for the audience at the 7 p.m. draw and show, with the annual emcee of this event, Phil Knaack. Thanks also to the cookie lady, Brenda Knaack, who must have baked her buns off (this is not the right term for cookies), for the freebie handouts.

Thanks also to the ticket sellers, Phil, Brenda, and Ralph Weller, and all who cleaned up after the show.

The monthly business meeting was especially busy with 2014 elections and military recognition day. Military recognition day, a stirring accolade recognizing not only our military veterans, but all who have served their country, state, city or town, including those who served for the betterment of their fellow man, was presented by past president Phil Knaack. All branches and servicemen were acknowledged individually through their corps hymns, presented by another past president, Bill Wellivere.

The wives and families who kept the home fires burning were especially highlighted.

Have you noticed that past board members are still carrying the mail at these events? Bravo!

The 2014 elections were quick and painless, as all were acclaimed — Nancy Caughlin as treasurer, and Bridget Marwick and Eleanor Rajewski as members-at-large. Thanks to all who serve.

The last breakfast for this year was a “cracking” success. What can you say of the 10 dedicated crewmembers led by Jim Grant, who every year over a three-month period, put out a flawless serving to more than 100 hungry souls?

If that was not enough, Jim and Audrey cohosted the Monday coffee hour. You have earned your rest for this year.

This is just the beginning of the wild month of March. With the north calling, all programs are in high speed for completion. More to come next week.

Come by and see us, and talk to Judy in the office. Sit in on our Friday and Saturday music jams, or just look us over and book a site for next season.

By  Ian Marwick

Published March 19, 2014

Round-up at the women’s club at Sundance Park

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More than 50 people attended the March meeting and luncheon of the Sundance Park Women’s Club of Zephyrhills.

The ladies prepare to march in the Mad Hatters Parade in front of the judges during the women’s club meeting and luncheon. (Courtesy of Barb White)
The ladies prepare to march in the Mad Hatters Parade in front of the judges during the women’s club meeting and luncheon.
(Courtesy of Barb White)

The Mad Hatters Tea Party luncheon was enjoyed by its attendees. This luncheon was organized by food chairs Marjorie King and Linda Kimmeth, along with their volunteers.

Club president Ann McDonald then led a short business meeting. Officers were elected for the next season beginning with the April meeting.

The newly elected officers were McDonald as president, Vicki Oneto as vice president, Mary Hart as secretary, Mary Leland as treasurer; Pat Rutkoski as program chair, and Marjorie King and Ruth Rockwell as food chairs.

All the women of Sundance are welcome to attend the monthly meetings on the second Monday of each month, continuing through the summer season as well.

The April meeting will consist of a baby shower, providing the Neighborhood Care Center with much needed baby supplies to give to the parental needs of residents of Zephyrhills.

By Barb White

Published March 19, 2014