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Health News (09/04/24): Hospital lauded for robotic surgery

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St. Joseph’s Hospital-North team members with the surgical arms of the robot positioned over the surgical table in an operating room. From left, Primo Gunabe, Jennifer Downing, Louis Garcia, Paige Bruseski and Chris Vinas. Photo courtesy of ourtesy of Martin Bahl/BayCare

Hospital receives high marks for robotic surgery program

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz has received accreditation as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery by the Surgical Review Corporation. 

The designation signifies that St. Joseph’s Hospital-North’s robotic surgery services provide the highest quality of care to patients.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North underwent a series of inspections and visits where all aspects of the robotic surgical program were scrutinized. 

The inspection and visit process involved physicians, nurses and administrators within robotic surgery at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North.
The accreditation process is done every three years. The hospital will be up for reaccreditation in 2027.

Surgeons have performed nearly 3,500 robotic surgeries from 2014 to July 31, 2024. St. Joseph’s Hospital-North is on track to perform more than 700 robotic surgeries in 2024 – the highest number of robotic surgeries in a year in the hospital’s history. 

The top three years at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North for robotic surgeries are 655 in 2023, 647 in 2022 and 533 in 2021.

“Accreditation shows our dedication to high-quality surgery outcomes for our patients,” said Jennifer Downing, surgical services director at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North. “Robotic surgery is minimally invasive and can provide faster recovery times so our patients can get back to their regular lives and activities quickly with less pain and less downtime.”

The surgeon operates the robot from a console that has four interactive arms and a high-resolution screen that projects 3-D images of the surgical site. The surgeon manually operates the instruments using their hands and fingers. When the surgeon moves, the instruments respond precisely to those movements in real time. The instruments work identically to the movement of a human arm, human elbow and a human wrist, however with an enhanced range of motion.

Robotic surgery can provide superior dexterity, enhanced vision and improved surgical access compared to conventional minimally invasive surgery or traditional open surgery. The robot navigates a precise approach to areas that traditional surgical instruments are unable to reach.

Many robotic surgeries are done as outpatient surgery, and patients are discharged on the same day as their surgery.

Dr. Louis Matherne IV, a BayCare Medical Group general surgeon, has performed robotic surgery since 2016. He uses the robot at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North for surgeries on the gallbladder, appendix, colon, small bowel and hernias.

Matherne was a strong proponent of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North pursuing the Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery status and designation.

“We perform a high number of robotic cases at St. Joe’s North,” Matherne said. “It is important for that to be recognized and the community to know that we have the expertise and ability to do advanced robotic surgeries safely with good outcomes. If people are looking for minimally invasive surgery, they should look here at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North.”

Robotic surgeries at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North are performed in gynecology, urology, colorectal and general surgery. Learn more at StJosephsNorthRobotics.org.

 

CUP employees do the honor at the ribbon-cutting ceremony. The coffeehouse is officially open at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North. Photo courtesy of Martin Bahl/BayCare

New coffeehouse promotes inclusion

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz has opened a new coffeehouse, located in the hospital’s Twigs Café, in partnership with the community organization CUP. 

It is staffed by employees of CUP — Coffee Uniting People, a nonprofit Tampa Bay organization about inclusion, empowerment, acceptance and opportunity for people of all abilities. Employees of CUP have intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“Having CUP here allows us to really deepen our culture of inclusivity and live it every single day,” said Mary Partridge, the hospital’s operations director. “These employees have a lot to teach us and I’m excited about everything that is to come.

CUP will offer a variety of coffee and tea options, light snacks and baked goods. This is its third location in the Tampa area.

 

Algal toxin prompts alert

The Florida Department of Health in Pasco County issued a health alert Aug. 28 for the presence of harmful blue-green algal toxins in Blanton Lake. 

This was in response to a water sample taken on Aug 27, 2024. 

The department urged the public to be cautious in and around Blanton Lake.

Residents and visitors were advised to take the following precautions:

  • Do not drink, swim, wade, use personal watercraft, water ski or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom.
  • Wash skin and clothing with soap and water if there is contact with algae or discolored or smelly water.
  • Keep pets away from the area. Waters where there are algae blooms are not safe for animals. Pets and livestock should have a different source of water when algae blooms are present.
  • Do not cook or clean dishes with water contaminated by algae blooms. Boiling the water will not eliminate the toxins.
  • Eating filets from healthy fish caught in freshwater lakes experiencing blooms is safe. Rinse fish filets with tap or bottled water, throw out the guts and cook fish well.
  • Do not eat shellfish in waters with algae blooms.

The department encouraged the public to report a bloom by calling 855-305-3903, report fish kills by calling 1-800-636-0511 and report symptoms from exposure to a harmful algal bloom or any aquatic toxin to call 1-800-222-1222. Veterinarians can address issues related to pets. Other questions or concerns about blue-green algae blooms can be addressed by the Florida Department of Health in Pasco County by calling 813-619-0300.

 

Hospital offers newborn classes

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North will offer these free in-person classes and events in September:

  • Breastfeeding Support Group – Sept. 12 and 26, 12:30 to 2 p.m.
  • Understanding Breastfeeding – Sept. 12, 3 to 6 p.m.
  • Understanding Your Newborn – Sept. 26, 3 to 6 p.m.

The hospital is located at 4211 Van Dyke Road, Lutz.

Registration is required. Visit BayCareEvents.org and choose “St. Joseph’s Hospital-North” in the “Facility/Location” filter, or call 855-314-8352 and press the number 2 at the prompt.

Classes are for those who have delivered or will deliver their baby.

 

Recovery walk set for Sept. 21

The ASAP Recovery Committee at Empowered Communities is registering participants for the fourth annual Stronger Together Recovery Walk.

The walk will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 21 at Sims Park in New Port Richey. It will include vendors, speakers, food, prizes, music and kids’ activities.

The first 200 people will receive a free T-shirt. Admission is free.

Email to walk or become a vendor.

‘Denying Gravity’ address aging

SAGES Theater will usher in National Fall Prevention Month with a free performance of “Denying Gravity.” 

The play is a collaboration among the theater, local first responders and groups like the AARP and Area Agencies on Aging. 

It is a “narrative woven with humor and heartache that resonates profoundly with older adults and their loved ones,” according to a news release.

The play will take place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 21 at the Richey Suncoast Theatre, 6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey.

Sign language interpreters will be there. 

There also will be resource tables, complimentary goody bags and prize drawings.

Reserve a free seat by visiting MyTBtickets.com or SagesTheater.org (and click on the RED reservation banner). Call 727-692-0902 for more information. 

Adopt A Pet: Toyota is a handsome fellow

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Two-year-old Toyota has a heart as golden as beautiful as his champagne-colored coat. He is full of youthful energy and charm, and his expressive face is always ready to share his enthusiasm for life. Toyota’s personality sparkles, too. With his playful spirit and loving nature, he’s sure to bring joy and laughter into any home — whether he’s chasing after his favorite toy, snuggling up for some downtime or giving you those irresistible puppy-dog eyes. Toyota is looking for a family who can match his zest for life and provide him with plenty of love and playtime. If you’re ready for a loyal companion with a flair for fun, Toyota is your perfect match. Come meet him at Pasco County Animal Services today.

If you would like to adopt Toyota, be sure to make an appointment at Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes, by calling 813-929-1212. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. For more information, email .

Adopt A Pet: Artichoke is bundle of potential love

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Artichoke may be a bit shy at first, but don’t let that reserved demeanor fool you. At 4 years old, Artichoke is looking for a patient and understanding human who can help her come out of her shell to blossom and show her true colors. Though she takes a little time to warm up, once she feels secure, she becomes a gentle and affectionate companion. Artichoke would thrive in a calm and quiet home where she can take her time adjusting to new surroundings. With a bit of patience and a lot of love, she’ll reward you with a deep bond and the kind of loyalty that’s worth the wait. If you’re ready to give Artichoke a chance to shine, visit her at Pasco County Animal Services today.

If you would like to adopt Artichoke or Toyota, be sure to make an appointment at Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes, by calling 813-929-1212. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. For more information, email .

Local Wildlife: A beauty to behold

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Miguel Antonio Ortiz snapped a photo of this monarch at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey. These butterflies may be found throughout North America feeding on milkweed, their toxic host plant. Monarchs live mainly in prairies, meadows, grasslands and along roadsides, across most of North America.

 

Back to school: the role of high school sports in student development

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High school sports have long been an integral part of the American educational experience, offering students opportunities to develop physically, mentally and socially. As students return to classrooms and playing fields, the significance of these activities extends beyond the pursuit of athletic excellence. High school sports play a crucial role in shaping young minds, fostering skills that are invaluable both in and out of school. Here are some of the multifaceted impacts of high school sports on student development.

(FatCamera/Getty)

Building discipline and time management

Participation in high school sports requires a significant commitment of time and energy, often balancing rigorous practice schedules with academic responsibilities. According to the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), student-athletes must develop strong time management skills to meet the demands of both school and sports. This balancing act teaches discipline, a quality that is essential for success in all areas of life.

Research from the University of Kansas supports this, showing that high school athletes tend to perform better academically than their non-athlete peers. The study found that student-athletes had higher grade point averages, better attendance records, and were more likely to graduate on time. The discipline required to juggle multiple responsibilities helps students develop the ability to prioritize tasks and manage their time effectively, skills that are transferable to college and career environments.

(Cavan Images/Getty)

Enhancing teamwork and leadership

High school sports provide an ideal setting for students to learn the importance of teamwork. In team sports, individual success is often tied to the performance of the group, making collaboration essential. This environment helps students develop strong communication skills, learn to trust others, and understand the value of working together toward a common goal.

Leadership is another key aspect of high school sports. According to the NFHS, students who take on leadership roles, such as team captains, gain valuable experience in decision-making, conflict resolution, and motivating others. These experiences build confidence and prepare students for leadership roles in the future, whether in their careers or communities.

Promoting physical and mental health

The physical benefits of sports are well-documented, with regular physical activity being crucial for maintaining health during adolescence. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that physical activity helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints, while also controlling weight and reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

However, the mental health benefits of sports are equally important. A report from the Aspen Institute highlights that sports participation can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood and boost self-esteem. High school sports provide a sense of belonging and community, which is vital for students’ emotional well-being. The camaraderie developed through team sports can offer a support system, helping students navigate the challenges of adolescence.

(Kingfisher Productions/Getty)

Fostering resilience and preparing for future challenges

High school sports teach students to cope with both success and failure. Athletes learn that setbacks are a natural part of life and that perseverance is key to overcoming challenges. This resilience is not only crucial in sports but also in academic pursuits and personal relationships.

According to Angela Duckworth, a psychologist and author of the book “Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance,” the ability to persevere in the face of adversity is a predictor of long-term success. High school sports provide an environment where students can develop this “grit,” which will serve them well in their future endeavors, whether in higher education, the workforce or personal goals.

 

High school sports are more than just a source of physical activity and entertainment; they are a vital component of student development. By promoting discipline, teamwork, leadership and resilience, sports help shape well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of adulthood. As students return to school and sports, the lessons they learn on the playing field will continue to benefit them long after the final whistle blows.

 

Published August 28, 2024.

Governor announces expansion of Hope Florida program

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(The Center Square) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced Aug. 21 that he will expand Hope Florida, an initiative spearheaded by first lady Casey DeSantis.

DeSantis said that in early August, Hurricane Debby hit the Big Bend region and caused flooding throughout the Gulf Coast and southwest Florida. He said Hope Florida was involved in helping people get back on their feet.

Hope Florida’s mission is to create pathways to prosperity for communities and individuals, to help them become more economically self-sufficient and to instill hope. 

Buildings impacted by rain and storm surge from Hurricane Debby on Aug. 5, in Cedar Key.
(Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

“Hope Florida was spearheaded by the first lady several years ago and the impetus for it is just the recognition that government cannot solve all these problems that we deal with as a people,” DeSantis said. “Particularly when you start talking about people that are less fortunate, they may need a hand-up.”

DeSantis added that making people dependent on the government does not lead to the realization of their dreams, which is why many government bureaucracies fail to solve social issues.

“What Hope Florida sought to do, is to recognize we have all these resources throughout our communities — our churches, our charities, individual volunteers, businesses that wanna help — that we can tap into,” DeSantis said. “So, rather than think government and be in that silo, let’s use government as a way to connect people in need to all these great resources.”

Since Hope Florida’s launch, DeSantis noted that 30,000 people have either completely or partially eliminated their need for government financial assistance and are moving on a path to self-sufficiency.

“It’s better for those folks and also better for the taxpayers, and so based on our efforts so far, Hope Florida-related initiatives are projected to save taxpayers almost a billion dollars over the next 10 years. Why? Because you have needs, those needs are being met by all these great resources we have,” DeSantis said.

The governor said Hope Florida helps people become self-sufficient enough to stay off public assistance for the long term and is within several Florida agencies, such as the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Elder Affairs.

Veterans are also linked to resources through Hope Florida, which includes mental health resources and job placements. DeSantis noted that other states follow Florida’s lead with initiatives like Hope Florida.

“We have other states that have come down here, studied what we’re doing with Hope Florida and then they’re implementing it in their states respectively,” DeSantis said.

 

Published August 28, 2024.

Moody: Florida will put transnational criminals in prison

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(The Center Square) – From a Romanian theft ring to a notorious Big Boi drug trafficking ring, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution is continuing to prosecute transnational criminal organizations.

She’s also issued a warning to criminals: “Florida law enforcement will track you down, and my statewide prosecutors will ensure you end up in prison.”

Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody (File)

In one case, Moody’s office secured 40-year prison sentences for three members of a Romanian crime ring that targeted and stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from schools and churches. A Fort Myers jury found Panait Dumitru, Catalin Trandafir and Simona Trandafir guilty of multiple felonies including racketeering, conspiracy to commit racketeering, grand theft, money laundering, aggravated white-collar crime, and unlawful possession of personal identification information.

The verdict was delivered after an extensive investigation conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The Romanians operated out of Orlando from 2019 to 2021, targeted schools and churches in six states, and stole more than $800,000 from them combined, according to the investigation.

“Florida is a law-and-order state, and we work hard to hold criminals accountable,” Moody said. “This Romanian crime ring stole more than $800,000 by taking checks from the mailboxes of more than 250 churches and schools in six states. Many of the donor victims were seniors.”

FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said the case exemplifies how law enforcement officers followed the evidence, were involved in detailed analysis, served search warrants and worked across multiple jurisdictions and regions. 

“It also demonstrates the importance we play in court, breaking down complex facts so juries can easily understand the case,” he said.

The crime ring stole checks from the mailboxes of more than 250 churches and schools in Florida, Illinois, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Carolina. During a three-week trial, more than 60 pastors, reverends, ministers and priests testified about the thefts their congregations experienced. When some churches began noticing a pattern, they installed mailboxes with locks. The defendants then returned with crowbars to break into the mailboxes, they testified.

The defendants deposited the stolen checks using a network of 59 bank accounts that had been opened by various members of the crime ring using forged documents, investigators found. They then withdrew the cash from some accounts and redeposited it in others, moving more than $800,000 worth through 1,600 stolen checks.

Three Romanians were charged with multiple felonies and sentenced to 40 years in prison. Two others fled and are at large. Another previously “pled open to the court and was sentenced to 10 years in state prison,” Moody’s office said.

In another case, a supplier in a large drug trafficking ring operating out of the Boynton Beach area was arrested and charged with felony counts of trafficking cocaine and conspiracy to traffic cocaine. According to the investigation, William Moyo supplied cocaine and fentanyl for a notorious Big Boi drug trafficking ring. He is the latest arrest; authorities had already arrested 17 defendants.

“Law enforcement continues to take poison peddlers and their deadly products off our streets, and this latest arrest should serve as a warning to anyone looking to traffic drugs in our state,” Moody said. 

According to the investigation, Moyo supplied multiple kilograms of cocaine and fentanyl to a drug trafficking ring run by Johnson Joseph. After executing a search warrant, authorities found more than 20 kilograms of cocaine at Moyo’s residence.

The Big Boi drug trafficking ring is known among law enforcement for distributing fentanyl and cocaine throughout the Palm Beach County area. Throughout the investigation, authorities seized a combined 50 pounds of cocaine and other illicit substances.

The investigation is ongoing. It is funded through a Florida Department of Law Enforcement State Assistance Enforcement for Fentanyl Eradication grant.

 

Published August 28, 2024.

Report: Florida facing a serious teacher shortage

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(The Center Square) – The Sunshine State may soon reach crisis levels as a teacher shortage looms.

Florida TaxWatch has released a new report showing that Florida’s teacher salaries rank 50th in the nation and school districts are struggling to fill vacancies.

(Kenny Eliason/Unsplash)

“The well-being of Florida’s K-12 education system should be a concern for all taxpayers. Comprising 43.9% of general revenue spending for Florida’s FY 2023-2024 state budget, education is one of the biggest consumers of taxpayer dollars,” the report says.

According to the report, teacher vacancies declined 13% in four years during the 2023-2024 school year. However, the available vacancies were still more than double those during the 2016-2017 school year.

The Florida Department of Education says in the report that many teachers needing to be certified in the appropriate fields are being hired to fill teaching positions. It also notes that postsecondary institutions need to produce more graduates to meet K-12 needs.

Around 15% of courses offered in F-ranked and D-ranked schools are taught by out-of-field teachers, compared to only 6.4% of courses in A-ranked schools.

The report notes the subject area with the most out-of-field teachers is English for speakers of other languages, often these teachers are instructing lessons in different subject areas. Science-Earth and Space and Science have the most significant demand, equating to two courses per certified teacher.

Florida TaxWatch notes several reasons for the growing shortage, the first being a decline in popularity with 270,000 teachers projected to leave the profession every year. Half of those go on to change careers altogether.

There are also fewer people entering the profession from college, as teacher salaries in Florida continue to lag around $53,000 per year.

Compared to other states, Florida’s cost of living adds further barriers to teacher recruitment despite having no state income tax. Teachers’ take-home pay in states like Pennsylvania, New York and Illinois averages between $500 and $1,000 more for every bi-monthly check after state and federal taxes than Florida’s.

The report notes that Florida lawmakers are trying to elevate these burdens and have launched various programs since 2020. These include the Florida Hometown Heroes Housing Program, which helps with a down payment and closing costs and increases to teacher salaries in the state budget.

 

Published August 28, 2024.

Business Digest 08/28/2024

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(Courtesy of Pasco Economic Development Council)

Food tech company opens in Pasco
Xgenex, a technology company specializing in food safety through innovative AI-driven solutions, has opened a 3,655-square-foot facility at The Edison Suncoast, according to a news release. Xgenex focuses on eliminating pathogens like salmonella and E. coli using FDA and USDA-approved ingredients. The new facility includes the Xymethius Artificial Intelligence Operations Center and will support local workforce development through an internship program. For more information about the company, visit Xgenex.com

Rate agreement approved
The Florida Public Service Commission has approved Duke Energy Florida’s multi-year rate agreement, which will reduce typical residential electric bills by an estimated 5% in January 2025, according to a news release. The agreement supports investments in reducing outages, enhancing response times, expanding clean energy generation and exploring new technologies. Over the three-year period, there will be an average annual bill increase of 2%, but costs from fuel under-recovery and storm restoration will be removed by the end of 2024, leading to lower bills in 2025. For more information about the agreement and the benefits to Duke Energy Florida customers, visit Duke-Energy.com/FL-Rates.

New SBDC office in Polk County
The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of South Florida is expanding with a new satellite office in Polk County, according to a news release. Starting Sept. 4, the office will be open every first and third Wednesday of the month at the Haines City Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) building, 303 Ledwidth Ave., at Lake Eva Park in Haines City. Randy Hayes, a business consultant from the Florida SBDC at USF, will provide free consultations at this location. The expansion aims to offer more accessible support for local entrepreneurs and businesses in Haines City. For more information, visit SBDCTampaBay.com.

St. Leo Roundabout Business Day
The Town of St. Leo will host a Roundabout Business Day on Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 33024 CR 52 (the Town Center property). This event aims to support local businesses affected by the CR 52 closure due to roundabout installation, according to a news release. Attendees can enjoy food and drink specials, a bounce house, games, contests and “touch-a-truck” vehicles. The event will be family friendly. For more information about St. Leo, visit TownOfStLeo.org

Halloween Event at rec complex
Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex will host a Halloween event on Oct. 18 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., with setup beginning at 4:45 p.m, according to a news release. The event will be held at the football field at 3032 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes. Businesses and organizations are invited to participate as vendors, where they can distribute candy and promotional items (sales are not permitted). Tables and chairs will be provided, and vendors are encouraged to bring canopies and decorations. To reserve a spot, email , or call 813-929-1220.

Fresh Kitchen opens new location
Fresh Kitchen opened its 15th location at 17629 Harpers Run Road in Lutz on Aug. 20. To celebrate, the restaurant hosted Friends & Family events on Aug. 18 and Aug. 19, featuring complimentary bowls and accepting donations to support Vibrant for All, a local mental health organization. Known for its build-your-own-bowl concept with healthy, fresh ingredients, Fresh Kitchen also introduced a new Online Ordering Drive-Thru at this location. For more information, visit EatFreshKitchen.com.

Achieva names new president
Achieva Credit Union has appointed Renee Grauer as president of Retail Sales and Service, according to a news release. Grauer brings over 40 years of banking experience from her previous role at Wells Fargo, where she led regional turnarounds and improved branch performance. At Achieva, she will oversee retail banking operations, aiming to enhance member service and drive growth. Grauer is originally from North Carolina and a long-time Tallahassee resident. 

For more information about Achieva Credit Union, visit AchievaCU.com. 

Habitat names new executive director
Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas, West Pasco, and Hernando Counties has appointed Whitney Dinu as executive director to lead its expansion into Hernando County, according to a news release. Dinu, who has more than 15 years of experience in marketing and community engagement, will oversee growth initiatives and build strategic partnerships. She will also help establish the Hernando Leadership Council to advocate for Habitat’s mission. The organization recently acquired its first lot in Hernando County and plans to break ground soon.

For more information, visit HabitatPWP.org.

GuideWell and Florida Blue name new director to board
Will Weatherford, managing partner of Weatherford Capital and chairman of the University of South Florida’s board of trustees, has joined the board of directors for GuideWell Mutual Holding Corporation, a health solutions company, and Florida Blue, a health insurer, according to a news release. Weatherford brings experience in technology, finance and business services. Weatherford previously served as the youngest speaker of the Florida House of Representatives.

Newcomer defeats veteran Pasco school board member

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Jessica Wright narrowly defeated longtime Pasco County School Board member Allison Crumbley in a race to represent District 4 during the Aug. 20 non-primary election.

(Element 5/Pexels)

School Board members don’t declare a political party affiliation when running for office. 

Wright received 29,184 votes, or 51%, while Crumbley garnered 28,110, or 49%. The term of Crumbley, who’s been a School Board member for 14 years, will end on Nov. 19. Wright will be sworn in on the same date and will begin her four-year term.

Here are the results of Pasco County’s Republican Primary election on Aug. 20:

Former state senator John Legg received 24,260 votes, or 76%, in his effort to become his party’s nominee for Pasco County superintendent of schools. His challenger, Michelle Mandarin, received 7,758 votes, or 24%. Legg will face off against Chris Dunning in the Nov. 5 general election. Dunning, who is running as a non-party candidate, currently is principal at Wendell Krinn Technical High School in New Port Richey. 

The winner of the general election will succeed Superintendent of Schools Kurt S. Browning, whose term will expire on Nov. 19. Browning, who has held the position for 12 years, decided to not seek reelection.

Lisa Yeager, who represents District 4 on the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (BCC), received 20,478 votes, or 63%, while her two challengers, Gabriel Papadopoulos and Christina Fitzpatrick, received 6,311 votes, or 20%, and 5,512 votes, or 17%, respectively. Gov. Ron DeSantis appointed Yeager to the District 4 seat following the April 21 death of Gary Bradford, who passed away midway through his first term. Democrat Daniel Ackroyd-Isales will challenge Yeager in November. The winner of that election will serve the remaining two years of Bradford’s term.

Jack Mariano, who represents District 5 on the Pasco County BCC, received 23,486 votes, or 74%, while his challenger, Gina Finocchiaro, received 8,375 votes, or 26%. No-party candidate Thomas Celotto will challenge Mariano in the fall. Mariano is seeking his sixth, four-year term on the BCC.

U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-FL-12, received 59,904 votes, or 84%, compared to his challenger, Hank Dunlap, who garnered 11,172 votes, or 16%. He will face Democrat Rock Aboujaoude Jr. in the November election.

State Sen. Ed Hooper, who represents District 21, received 34,377 votes, or 85%, compared to the 6,023 votes, or 15%, received by his challenger, John Siamas. Hooper will face Democrat Doris Carroll on Nov. 5.

State Rep. Brad Yeager, who lives in New Port Richey and represents District 56, got 6,882 votes, or 79%, compared to the 1,782 votes, or 21%, his challenger, Kirk Phillips, received. Democrat William Vernon Pura, who lives in Elfers, will run against Yeager in November.

 

Published August 28, 2024.