The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Game changers: how technology is revolutionizing the world of sports

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In the modern era, sports are no longer just about natural talent and rigorous training. The integration of advanced technologies is transforming how athletes train, compete and even recover. From wearable tech that monitors performance to virtual reality systems that simulate real-game scenarios, the landscape of sports is undergoing a technological revolution. Here’s a look at some of the most groundbreaking innovations that are changing the game.

Golfer Will Zalatoris wears a Whoop band as he lines up a putt during the first round of the RBC Heritage on April 15, 2021 at Harbour Town Golf Links in Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Wearable technology: precision monitoring and analytics
Wearable technology, including fitness trackers, smartwatches and specialized sports sensors, has become ubiquitous in professional sports. These devices collect real-time data on an athlete’s performance, including heart rate, speed, distance covered, and even biomechanical metrics. For example, GPS tracking vests used in soccer provide coaches with detailed insights into players’ movements and exertion levels during matches and training sessions.
Example: The Whoop strap, a popular wearable among athletes, tracks not only physical activity but also sleep patterns and recovery metrics. This data helps athletes optimize their training schedules and avoid overtraining, ultimately enhancing performance and reducing injury risk.

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR): immersive training
VR and AR are transforming training methodologies across various sports. VR allows athletes to simulate game scenarios and practice their responses in a controlled, immersive environment. This technology is particularly useful for sports that require split-second decision-making, such as football and basketball.
Example: NFL teams have started using VR to help quarterbacks practice reading defenses and making quick decisions without the physical wear and tear of on-field practice. Similarly, NBA teams employ AR to visualize shooting trajectories and improve players’ shooting mechanics.

The Houston Astros celebrate winning the 2017 World Series at Dodger Stadium on Nov. 1, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. Data analytics aided in the victory. (Photo by Tim Bradbury/Getty Images)

Data analytics and AI: strategic insights and injury prevention
The application of data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) in sports is providing teams with unprecedented strategic insights. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI algorithms can identify patterns and trends that human analysts might miss. This information is crucial for developing game strategies, player scouting and even predicting opponents’ tactics.
Example: The MLB team Houston Astros famously used data analytics to optimize their player lineups and in-game decisions, contributing to their World Series victory in 2017. In addition, AI-powered platforms like Kitman Labs analyze injury data to help teams develop personalized training regimens that minimize the risk of injuries.

Smart equipment: enhancing performance and safety
Smart equipment, embedded with sensors and connected to the internet, is revolutionizing how athletes interact with their gear. From smart basketballs that track shooting accuracy to smart shoes that analyze running form, this technology provides immediate feedback to athletes, helping them fine-tune their performance.
Example: The Wilson X Connected Basketball integrates a sensor that tracks makes, misses and shot range, allowing players to monitor their shooting performance through a connected app. Similarly, the Nike Adapt BB smart shoes feature self-lacing technology and customizable fit settings, providing athletes with optimal comfort and support.

English rugby player Maro Itoje recovers in a cryotherapy chamber in Bagshot, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan – RFU/The RFU Collection via Getty Images)

Recovery technologies: accelerating healing and enhancing longevity
Advanced recovery technologies are crucial for athletes looking to maintain peak performance and extend their careers. Innovations such as cryotherapy, pneumatic compression devices and electrical muscle stimulation are becoming standard practice in professional sports.
Example: Cryotherapy chambers expose athletes to extremely cold temperatures for short periods, reducing inflammation and accelerating muscle recovery. The NormaTec recovery system, which uses pneumatic compression to massage limbs and improve circulation, is widely used by athletes across various sports to enhance recovery between training sessions.

The integration of these cutting-edge technologies is not just enhancing individual performance but also transforming entire sports. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative solutions that will push the boundaries of what athletes can achieve. From grassroots programs to professional leagues, the adoption of these technologies is democratizing access to high-level training and performance optimization, ensuring that the future of sports is brighter, faster and more exciting than ever.

Published July 24, 2024

Business Digest 07/24/2024

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Florida ranks third in new business starts
A new study by Eton Venture Services reveals Wyoming as the state with the highest rate of business applications, at 7,149 per 100,000 people in 2022, with Delaware ranking second with 4,465, followed by Florida with 2,730, according to a news release. The study used county data from the U.S. Census Bureau to calculate these figures. West Virginia, with only 776 applications per 100,000 people, has the lowest rate. The rest of the top 10 states are Georgia, Colorado, Nevada, Utah, Mississippi, Montana and Louisiana. For more information, visit EtonVS.com.

Chiropractor seeks vendors
Terlep Chiropractic, 8466 Northcliffe Blvd., in Spring Hill, is seeking vendors for its annual Back to School Bash scheduled for Aug. 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Terlep will provide free school and sports physicals, as well as backpacks while supplies last. No tickets are needed for this community event. Interested vendors should visit the event page on Facebook at bit.ly/4ednPPd. 

Pasco EDC announces awards finalists
The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) has announced the finalists for its 36th Annual Awards, honoring businesses in Pasco County for outstanding achievements in economic development, according to a news release. 

The 11 companies selected based on their innovation, economic growth and community impact in 2023 are: BayCare Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, ConGlobal, Crestmark Pharmacy Services, Garyline, Infinity Aero Club, J.T.D. Enterprises Inc., Jon’s Gourmet Nutrition, OpenBuilds, Rocycle LLC, The Lit Advocate, and TRU Simulation + Training Inc.

The awards ceremony, scheduled for Sept. 5, will also recognize individuals, including Avis Phillips and the late Ted Phillips, for their exceptional contributions to economic development. The event, held at the Pasco-Hernando State College IPAC, is a key gathering for Tampa Bay and Pasco County leaders, featuring networking, dinner and the announcement of this year’s winners.

For more information, visit PascoEDC.com.

Lutz Guv’na race raises record-setting funds for community

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Three candidates vying for the coveted title of Lutz Guv’na raised more than $36,000 for their community through fundraising efforts.

This is the most ever in the friendly but competitive contest that has been held since the mid-1950s, according to Linda Mitchell, chairwoman of the annual July 4th parade.

Rob Brooklyn succeeded in raising more money than the other two candidates and was named the 2024 Lutz Guv’na. He was presented a colorful sash and a “key to the town” during an inauguration ceremony at the Old Train Depot on Lutz Lake Fern Road following the parade.

Members of the North Tampa-Lutz Cadet Squadron of the Florida Wing of the Civil Air Patrol march down the parade route on July 4. (Courtesy of Deborah Erdahl)

Brooklyn has owned and operated Hardrock Landscape Services in Lutz since 1998.

The winner of the race is able to designate a specific charity in the community to receive 10% of the money they raised. Brooklyn designated the Learning Gate Community School in Lutz as the recipient of those funds.

The other two candidates for Lutz Guv’na were Joanna LaChance and Linda Mitchell — both retired educators.

LaChance is a former Exceptional Student Education (ESE) coordinator who worked for a combined 16 years in Palm Beach and Polk counties, before retiring. She and her husband own and operate the Lutz Pinch A Penny pool store at the intersection of Sunset Lane and U.S. 41. 

Mitchell was an eighth grade language arts teacher at Adams Middle School in Tampa for 25 years before retiring. She is currently the first vice president of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club.

Paul Vahue, associate pastor for administration at First Baptist Church of Lutz, said the opening prayer at the patriotic event.

Members of Boy Scout Troop 12 and the North Tampa-Lutz Cadet Squadron of the Florida Wing of the Civil Air Patrol conducted a flag ceremony, and Annabelle Depolis sang the National Anthem. Depolis finished in fifth place in the vocal category during the 41st annual Spotlight on Talent held earlier this year at the Wesley Chapel Center for the Arts.

Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club proudly display signs on their float indicating their service involvement.

Individuals marched in the parade, along with numerous floats. An estimated few hundred people looked on while enduring the sweltering hot weather. 

Several prizes were awarded at the conclusion of the parade. The category winners were:

  • Best Vehicle – Guv’na candidate Rob Brooklyn
  • Bicycle – West Coast BMX
  • Classic Car – Peyton Rose
  • Commercial Entry – Mission BBQ
  • Golf Cart Entry – The Citizens of the Old Lutz School House
  • Most Patriotic – The Miss Susie Fire Truck
  • Most Spirited – The Lutz Chiefs
  • Themed Entry – Stark Farms
  • Walking Unit – Lutz Family Church
  • Youth Entry – Learning Gate Community School
  • Judge’s Favorite – Elite Ink
  • Grand Marshal’s Choice – First Baptist Church of Lutz

Prizes also were handed out to bakers who showed off their skills in a cake and pie contest. There were 43 entries in the contest, according to Barbara Booth, treasurer of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club.

Heather Garry’s cake took first place in the category of Adult Best Decorated.

Categories winners in the contest were:

  • Guv’na’s Choice –  Melba Pineiro
  • Adult Best Decorated – Heather Garry, first place; Sarah Robison, second place; and Laura Konga, third place.
  • Adult Best Tasting – Kay Taylor, first; Jeannie Mills, second; and Jan King, third.
  • Youth Best Decorated (11-18) – Jennings May
  • Youth Best Decorated (10 and under) – Nicholas May, first; and Rylee and Dixon Kleme, second.
  • Youth Best Tasting (11-18) – William Leahy
  • Youth Best Tasting (10 and under) – Jake Kosior, first; Juniper Parker, second; and Colette Henderson, third.
  • Most Patriotic (all ages) – Dee-dee Hancock, first; Gloria Russell, second; and Jennifer Rankin, third.
  • Cupcakes Best Decorated (all ages) – Deborah Robison, first; Aribella Grande, second; and Abigail Rankin, third.
  • Best Pie (All ages) – Katelyn Payne, first; Karin D’Amico, second; and Erin Kuma, third.

Activities preceding the parade included an early morning warmup with Jazzercise and a 1-mile fun run and 5K race with awards presented at the Old Train Depot.

Guests could also bid on baked treats at an auction in the air-conditioned comfort of the Lutz Community Center.

Published July 17, 2024

Pasco County seeks to help homeless

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Pasco County plans to close on property July 26 in Holiday,  where a low barrier shelter may be developed to temporarily house homeless people on an emergency basis.

The decision to purchase the 2.18-acre site at 2654 Grand Blvd. and 2706 Grand Blvd. for $775,000 was approved by a unanimous vote of the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners during its July 9 meeting. 

Sarah Alway (with plaque) receives her Innovator of the Year award during a commission meeting. (Courtesy of Pasco County)

There is currently a 5,792-square-foot building on the property Rosemary J. Billingsley has agreed to sell to Pasco County. The proposed purpose of that building will be to provide a place where homeless residents can do their dining, laundry and other activities, according to Cathy Pearson, assistant county administrator for public services. 

However, it’s not clear if that building will be able to be used, due to a  significant amount of renovations that need to be made,  according to Andrew Baxter, the county’s facilities management director.

It might be necessary to demolish the existing building on the property and construct a new one that could serve as a community center for homeless people who are temporarily living at the shelter, Pearson said. 

A timeline for the development of the actual homeless shelter hasn’t been set.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds will be used to purchase the property. The U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development has provided those funds to the county, according to Pearson.

The closing date of July 26 has been set to purchase the property so the county may use CDBG money allocated for the current fiscal year.

A Request for Proposals will eventually be advertised by Pasco County to find a not-for-profit organization to operate the homeless shelter.

It is hoped that up to 50 pallet homes can be placed on the property, according to Pearson.

“A pallet home is often much like it sounds: a small house built with pallets,” according to an online article on the House Digest website. “However, as this initiative continues to develop, the name has come to reference houses that happen to be shipped on pallets but are manufactured with materials that can withstand the elements. 

“Durable materials such as aluminum and reinforced plastics ensure that these homes can last for well over 10 years and serve as many people as possible.”

It would be good, said Pearson, if the pallet homes — also known by some as tiny homes — that were placed on the property on Grand Boulevard would enable residents to dine and do their own laundry, too. 

In other business, commissioners:

  • Recognized Sarah Alway as the 2024 Dan Webster Youth Innovator of the Year. Alway has received three promotions during the two-and-a-half years she has worked for the Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC). 

Formed in 1987, (Pasco EDC) is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes countywide economic development, and continues to be a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County.  It’s the lead economic development organization dedicated to the overall growth and prosperity of Pasco County through the development of a sustainable and diversified economy. 

Alway received a $5,000 scholarship as a result of receiving the award. Alway said she would use that money to pay for additional classes she needs to take to achieve the designation of certified economic developer (CEcD). She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a Master of Science in Economic Development, and also serves on several different committees and advisory boards.  

  • Recognized Patrice Monaco-McBride for her accomplishments during the 15 years she has worked for the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office. A resolution the commissioners adopted said, in part:

“Ms. Monaco-McBride has been an integral part of the Office of the Clerk & Comptroller, and has developed and maintained, in an ever-changing environment, a highly effective and efficient Inspector General Department built on professionalism and integrity. Ms. Monaco-McBride’s expertise and organizational knowledge in the performance of her duties had a positive impact on the operations of the Board of County Commissioners and the Office of the Clerk & Comptroller.”

She started working for the clerk’s office on Sept. 15, 2008. Her retirement will be effective on July 19.  

  • Received a proposed budget submitted by Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells for fiscal year 2024-2025 requesting $7,966,85 for his department for the new fiscal year that will begin Oct. 1, 2024 and end on Sept. 30, 2025. This is a proposed increase of $443,856, or 5.9%, over the budget of $7,523,002 that Wells’ office has for the current fiscal year ending on Sept. 30.
  • Agreed to amend an agreement to a contract with B.R.W. Contracting Inc. for work the company will be doing for the Old Pasco Road improvements project. Pasco County will be paying B.R.W. a grand total of $29,761,758.27. The amendment, which added $7,778,717.83 to the contract, is to extend the construction of a four-lane urban typical section with 5-foot bicycle lanes on both sides, a 6-foot sidewalk on the west side, and a 12-foot multi-use path on the east side to the Coyote Way/Sedgeway Boulevard intersection, which is an increase of approximately 0.70 miles. “The extension provides connected pedestrian and bicycle facilities and needed roadway capacity to the Cypress Creek school campus, improving safety for all roadway users,” according to a county memo. “The amendment results in substantial time and cost savings to the county by precluding the need for a separate solicitation for the shorter additional length of road.”

Published July 17, 2024

Better Business Bureau offers tips for safe online shopping in July

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The annual sales of big-name retailers often take place in July. More deals are great for consumers and more people out shopping is great for businesses large and small. Just be careful. Don’t get so caught up in the excitement that you fall for phishing scams, misleading advertisements and look-alike websites. 

The Better Business Bureau offers these tips for online shopping during July:

  • Research the seller or retailer. Before you buy, check customer reviews of the product(s) you’re interested in purchasing and do some research on the retailer. Be sure you can find contact information for the seller. Look up the retailer on BBB.org to see if they are BBB Accredited and check out their profile to read customer reviews. 
  • Watch for email and text phishing attempts that appear to come from a popular retailer. Phishing increases during busy shopping days. These messages may claim you have a gift waiting for you or that there is a problem with delivery. Know what you’ve opted in and out of before you click. When making many purchases, track your purchase, where it’s from and any tracking numbers. Watch out for fake package delivery text messages and don’t click on any links that you receive that seem suspicious. 
  • Watch out for social media ads. You may come across lookalike websites that, at first glance, appear to belong to a trusted retailer. But looking more closely at the URL, you’ll notice that the domain name is slightly different (i.e., Instead of Popularstore.com, the URL might be PopvlarStore.com or PopularStoreOnline.com). Ensure websites use the correct business name spelling and have legitimate contact information and customer service numbers. Also, trust your gut when evaluating deals. If a company claims to sell the hottest item of the year at a super low price, it’s probably untrue. 
  • Beware of look-alike websites: Check the URL, watch for bad grammar, research the age of the domain, search for contact information and read online reviews. 
  • Professional photos do not mean it’s a real offer. Photos can be stolen from other websites, so don’t believe what you see. If logos or other images on the website appear blurry, take that as a red flag for a scam. 
  • Make sure the website is secure. Look for the “HTTPS” in the URL (the extra “s” is for “secure”) and a small lock icon on the address bar. Never enter payment or personal information into a website with only “HTTP.” It is not secure. 
  • Be careful when purchasing sought-after products. If something is sold out everywhere, don’t be tempted by a seemingly great deal. Scammers often trick shoppers by offering the most popular products at low prices. 
  • Pay with a credit card. It’s always best to make online purchases with your credit card. If any shady charges pop up later, you can contest them through your credit card company. Be very wary of any retailer that asks you to pay by digital wallet apps, prepaid money cards or other non-traditional payment methods. These are red flags for scams.

Published July 17, 2024

The harsh truth about complaining

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Is complaining an effective strategy for solving problems? Will complaining improve your situation? Do others enjoy listening to you complain? The answer to all three questions is no. Then why do people complain?

He or she may be looking for sympathy, assistance, support or just letting off steam. There are also people who are habitual whiners who are never satisfied or content.

In the case of sympathy, there is an erroneous assumption that if enough people feel sorry for them, it will somehow improve the complainer’s situation. All that will be accomplished is that others will grow tired of their moaning and give them a wide berth. Everyone has their own problems and very few people want to spend their discretionary time listening to the tales of woe of others.

Sympathy seekers tend to dwell on their problems rather than seeking solutions. When potential solutions are presented, they invariably find fault with and summarily dismiss them. These complainers seek attention and monopolize conversations. They look for opportunities to show how their plight is worse than everyone else’s.

Spending time with sympathy seekers can be draining. They are consumed with their own situation and show little or no interest in other people. Regardless of how good you may feel, a gripe session with a sympathy seeker will depress your mood.

Some complainers are looking for assistance in solving a problem. In this case they are interested in advice that will lead to a solution. The danger here is that they will indiscriminately seek guidance from anyone. In their attempt to overcome an obstacle, they will try virtually any remedy offered without considering the qualifications of the source.

Following bad advice can exacerbate a problem. Advice seekers that jump from one bad suggestion to another will become frustrated as they fail to solve their problem. The result is the erroneous conclusion that their situation has no solution.

Complainers in search of advice must be very selective in whom they approach. Only those who have successfully solved similar problems or who have appropriate expertise should be sought out. When the right person is identified, they should be asked for advice directly rather than complaining to them.

Perhaps a complainer is looking for support. They may be overwhelmed by unexpected events or overloaded with responsibilities. This type of complainer is likely looking for help rather than advice. If you are so inclined, offer to lend a hand.

Even when they are helped out, some complainers always wind up in another crisis situation. Helping them out again will only improve their situation temporarily. Without a change in strategy, they will soon become immersed in another crisis.

Complainers who are incessant whiners find fault with virtually everything. They complain about their lives, other people’s lives, the weather, politics, religion, society, etc. Everything they comment on is flawed. All of life is tainted. Their glass is always half empty and probably leaking. These people are not happy unless they are unhappy.

Whiners will never be satisfied. They don’t want sympathy, solutions or help. They just want to complain. These people will never change and their minds are closed to new ideas. Your only option is to limit exposure to their griping.

Complaining is unproductive and destructive. If you have problems, find solutions. If you need help, ask. Occasional complaining to seek understanding or let off steam is OK. But don’t make it a way of life or a topic of every conversation.

Bryan Golden is the author of “Dare to Live Without Limits.” Contact Bryan at or visit www.DareToLiveWithoutLimits.com Copyright 2024 Bryan Golden

Published July 17, 2024

Stop for a sweet treat during the heatwave

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National Ice Cream Day is July 21: Treat yourself to a frozen delight at one of these local shops:

(Teejay/Pexels)

Ice Dreamm Shop (two locations):

23912 State Road 54, Suite 2, Lutz (behind Big Apple Bagel)

The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., #101

Lutz Scoops:
Lutz Lake Crossing, 19259 N. Dale Mabry
Delectable Delights:
16541 Pointe Village Dr., Suite 110, Lutz
Astro Craft Ice Cream:
25700 Sierra Center Blvd., Lutz

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy 101: What every student-athlete should know

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(Family Features) – You may find it difficult to wrap your mind around the idea of an energetic student-athlete with a cardiac diagnosis. 

Heart conditions may be more often associated with older individuals, but you might be surprised to learn hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common condition responsible for sudden cardiac death in young athletes. 

In fact, it’s the cause of 40% of sudden cardiac death cases.

(Courtesy of Shutterstock)

It’s estimated one in every 500 adults living in the United States has hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, according to the American Heart Association, but a significant percentage are undiagnosed. More than 80% of individuals who experience this condition show no signs or symptoms before sudden cardiac death. 

While sudden cardiac death is rare, it can occur during exercise or in its aftermath. That’s why it’s important for student-athletes and their loved ones to learn more about this condition and talk to a doctor about their risk.

With proper knowledge and the support of a skilled care team, it’s possible to manage hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with heart-healthy actions to prevent complications or worsening cardiovascular conditions like atrial fibrillation (a quivering or irregular heartbeat), stroke or heart failure. 

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy awareness and education for athletes by the American Heart Association is made possible in part by a grant from the Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation.

What is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the most common form of inherited heart disease and can affect people of any age. It’s defined by thickening and stiffening of the walls of the heart. The heart’s chambers cannot fill up or pump blood out adequately, so the heart is unable to function normally.

There are different types of this condition. Most people have a form of the disease in which the wall that separates the two bottom chambers of the heart (the septum) becomes enlarged and restricts blood flow out of the heart (obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy).

However, sometimes hypertrophic cardiomyopathy occurs without significant blocking of blood flow (nonobstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). The heart’s main pumping chamber is still thickened and may become increasingly stiff, reducing the amount of blood taken in then pumped out to the body with each heartbeat.

What are possible symptoms?

Symptoms can include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Heart palpitations
  • Fatigue

The severity of symptoms can vary, but if you experience them or if you have a family history of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or sudden cardiac death, it may be a good idea to speak to your doctor about whether you have this condition.

For some people, symptoms can get worse and new symptoms can appear over time, resulting in people dealing with harsher effects and a diminished ability to do the activities they love. This decrease in functions can be one of the most challenging aspects of the disease. Keeping your health care team aware of any new or changing symptoms allows them to work with you to develop a plan to manage these symptoms and reduce their impact.

How is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy diagnosed?

Medical history, family history, a physical exam and diagnostic test results all factor into a diagnosis. A common diagnostic test is an echocardiogram that assesses the thickness of the heart muscle and observes blood flow from the heart.

If anyone in your family has been diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, other heart diseases or has been told they had thick heart walls, you should share that information with your doctor and discuss the need for genetic testing. Because this condition is hereditary, first-degree relatives, which include siblings and parents, should be checked.

Learn more at heart.org/HCMStudentAthlete.

Source: American Heart Association

Published July 17, 2024

Cuban church gets water access thanks to efforts from local organizations

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Members of Palmas Altas United Methodist Church (UMC) — a small church in an impoverished rural community in the Granma Province of Cuba — have access to a daily supply of sanitary drinking water through the combined efforts of two local Pasco County organizations: Land O’ Lakes UMC and One Ball One Village (OBOV), a 501(c)(3) organization based in Odessa.

Land O’ Lakes UMC helped develop a cistern at the Palmas Altas church so water could be stored there, and OBOV provided a purification/filtration system to the church in Cuba so sanitary drinking water would be available to its members and the community, said Jody Johnston of OBOV. 

Palmas Altas United Methodist Church’s pastor Rev. Ataliosky Romero, right, and One Ball One Village volunteer Mayito Montoya stand beside a sink where clean water now flows. (Courtesy of Candace Darden)

Palmas Altas translates to “high palm” in English, according to Candace Darden, a member of the Land O’ Lakes UMC’s Missions Team. The Cuban church is difficult to reach because it’s located in the Sierra Maestra mountain range near Manzanillo.

The Land O’ Lakes and Palmas Altas UMCs are “sister churches,” meaning members pray for one another.

Land O’ Lakes UMC has been helping to pay the salary of Palmas Altas’ pastor Rev. Ataliosky Romero for several years. The Florida church’s Missions Team also occasionally provided Palmas Altas with food and over-the-counter medications, Darden said.

Rev. Romero recently told Land O’ Lakes UMC that his church was in serious need of a reliable supply of sanitary drinking water, Darden said. The municipal pump for the water system from Manzanillo broke down and no parts were available to repair it. This caused water to have to be trucked in for months and those deliveries were unpredictable because of the vast shortage of gasoline in Cuba, Darden said.

Members of the Cuban church also lacked the funds to purchase the materials to build the cistern, so Land O’ Lakes UMC spent three months trying to find the materials, according to Darden.

It only took two weeks for the people of Palmas Altas to dig the cistern once the supplies had been provided, but another need arose — the water in the cistern had to be purified before it was safe to drink. The estimated cost of a purification/filtration system ranged from $1,700 to $5,000, far more than what Land O’ Lakes UMC had available.

The Land O’ Lakes church was referred to OBOV by a member of another local church. OBOV, founded in 2012, has been taking purification/filtration water systems to Cuba, along with many other supplies, for several years, Johnston said.

Mario Montoya, an OBOV volunteer in Cuba, delivered the system for Palmas Altas, according to Johnston. The delivery took Montoya about four hours after the system arrived at an airport more than 200 miles away from the church.

“The system was installed on June 26 and the congregation of the church and surrounding community are finally able to have clean, clear, good water whenever they want. The municipal system will keep the cistern full and with rainwater being a backup water source,” Darden said. “Thanks to OBOV our ‘sister church’ has good water to drink.” 

Published July 10, 2024

Local residents dig the cistern.
The finished cistern before it was covered.

Camp activities for an at-home summer camp experience

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Recreating the magic of summer camp at home can be a fun and rewarding adventure. Central to the camp experience are the diverse activities that keep kids engaged, learning and having fun. Here’s a guide to help you plan a variety of camp activities that will make your at-home summer camp unforgettable.

1. Arts and Crafts
Creative projects are a staple of summer camps. Here are some ideas:

  • Tie-Dye T-Shirts: Provide white t-shirts and a variety of dye colors. Let kids create their own unique designs.
  • Friendship Bracelets: Use colorful threads and beads to teach kids how to make bracelets they can exchange.
  • Nature Collages: Collect leaves, flowers and twigs from the yard to create beautiful nature-inspired artwork.
  • Rock Painting: Find smooth stones and use paint to decorate them with fun designs, animals or positive messages.
(Aja Koska/Getty Images)

2. Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor activities are essential for a camp-like experience. Consider these:

  • Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items for kids to find around the yard or neighborhood. Include nature items like acorns, feathers and flowers.
  • Obstacle Course: Set up a course with cones, ropes and hula hoops for kids to navigate. Time them to see who completes it the fastest.
  • Nature Hike: Explore a local trail or park, teaching kids about the different plants and animals you encounter.
  • Water Balloon Fight: Cool off with a classic water balloon battle. Set rules and boundaries to ensure everyone has fun safely.

3. Sports and Games
Physical activities keep kids active and entertained. Try these classic camp games:

  • Capture the Flag: Divide into teams and try to capture the other team’s flag while protecting your own.
  • Relay Races: Organize different relay races, such as sack races, three-legged races and spoon-and-egg races.
  • Volleyball or Badminton: Set up a net in the yard and have friendly matches.
  • Kickball: A fun, low-equipment game that can be played in the backyard or at a local park.

4. STEM Projects
Incorporate educational fun with science, technology, engineering and math activities:

  • Science Experiments: Conduct simple experiments like baking soda and vinegar volcanoes, or make slime.
  • Model Rockets: Build and launch model rockets, teaching kids about the principles of flight and physics.
  • Bug Safari: Equip kids with magnifying glasses and jars to explore and learn about insects in the yard.
  • Solar Oven: Make a solar oven out of a pizza box and use it to cook s’mores or melt cheese on mini-pizzas.

5. Cooking Classes
Teach kids valuable kitchen skills with fun cooking projects:

  • Campfire Cooking: If you have a safe outdoor space, cook hot dogs, s’mores or foil packet meals over a fire pit.
  • Homemade Ice Cream: Use simple ingredients and a bit of shaking to make delicious ice cream in a bag.
  • Pizza Making: Set up a pizza station with various toppings and let kids create their own personal pizzas.
  • Baking: Have a baking day where kids can help make cookies, brownies or cupcakes.

6. Performing Arts
Encourage creativity and confidence through performing arts activities:

  • Talent Show: Host a talent show where kids can sing, dance, perform magic tricks or showcase any other talent.
  • Theater Games: Play improvisational games like charades or have kids create and act out their own short plays.
  • Dance Party: Organize a dance party with different themes or styles of music.
  • Karaoke: Set up a karaoke machine or use a karaoke app for a fun sing-along session.

7. Reading and Storytelling
Incorporate quiet time and foster a love for reading:

  • Campfire Stories: Gather around a (real or pretend) campfire and take turns telling stories or reading from a favorite book.
  • Reading Nook: Create a cozy reading area with blankets and pillows where kids can relax and read.
  • Book Club: Choose a book to read together and discuss it over snacks.

8. Themed Days
Add variety and excitement with themed days:

  • Superhero Day: Dress up as favorite superheroes, create comic strips and play themed games.
  • Wild West Day: Wear cowboy hats, learn to line dance and play horseshoes.
  • Space Exploration Day: Make cardboard rockets, learn about the solar system and have a stargazing night.
  • Pirate Day: Dress as pirates, create treasure maps and have a treasure hunt.

9. Team Building and Group Activities
Foster teamwork and cooperation with group activities:

  • Group Art Projects: Collaborate on a large mural or group painting.
  • Building Challenges: Use building blocks or recycled materials to construct structures together.
  • Cooperative Games: Play games that require teamwork, such as building a human pyramid or creating a group sculpture.

Creating a summer camp experience at home can be as enriching and exciting as going to an actual camp. With a mix of creative, physical, educational and themed activities, you can ensure your kids have a memorable and fun-filled summer right in your backyard.

Published July 10, 2024