The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

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

State to spend $14.5B on transportation needs in new budget

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(The Center Square) — Gov. Ron DeSantis touted billions in funding for transportation relief and easing growing congestion on the roads in this year’s budget in a news conference on June 27.

For this current year’s budget which went into effect on July 1, $14.5 billion was appropriated for 946 different transportation projects across the state. This includes more than $5 billion to maintain and construct new highways, resulting in 140 new lane miles.

(Florida Department of Transportation/Facebook)

“We also have $1.8 billion to resurface roadways and to fill potholes, we’ve done almost $25 billion and resurfaced over 12,000 miles of roadway since I’ve been governor,” DeSantis said.

Bridge repairs and replacements were allocated $382 million, which will repair 72 bridges and replace another 15. The state will also spend $1.4 billion to support intermodal improvements, divided among transit and freight rail ($960.6 million), airports ($334.2 million) and seaports ($109.6 million).

“Our economy has grown 22%, the nation as a whole since 2019, has grown half that much — it’s 11%,” DeSantis said. “So, we’ve doubled the national average in economic growth over the last five and a half years.”

DeSantis said that managing Florida’s budget responsibly has been a priority. Despite major tax relief and increased spending for infrastructure and education, the state’s budget has been maintained at a reasonable level and even reduced since last year.

“You look at Florida, we’re number one for new business formations and have been for quite some time,” DeSantis said. “We’re the third largest state, so obviously we should have more business formations than a state like Rhode Island…but we have more business formations than California, which is twice the population of Florida.”

DeSantis said that private sector growth in Florida has grown by 2.2% over the past 12 months, while the national rate was 1.6%. The Sunshine State’s labor force also grew twice as fast as the nation, and the crime rate is at a 50-year low, according to DeSantis.

“That provides opportunities but also provides challenges,” DeSantis said. “The reality is, when you lead the nation in net-in migration year after year…that requires there to be the supporting infrastructure to be able to handle that.”

DeSantis said one of his administration’s main focuses has been accelerating infrastructure projects by using increased funding to complete them, sometimes 10 years ahead of schedule.

“Since I became governor in 2019, we’ve invested nearly $70 billion to improve transportation infrastructure in the state of Florida, and our main focus has been on reducing congestion,” DeSantis said. “We wanna have good roads…but we’re in a situation where there’s a lot of growth, so we have to accommodate for that.”

Published July 10, 2024

DeSantis vetoes bills, including one that would’ve regulated vacation rentals

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(The Center Square) — Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has vetoed a number of bills from the 2024 legislative session, including one that would have mandated changes to vacation rentals.

Senate Bill 280 would have required vacation rental advertising platforms to collect and remit specific taxes while adding regulations for lodging and food establishments. DeSantis said in his veto message this would create more red tape for locals and prevent local governments from enacting existing ordinances or passing any new local measures.

SB 62 would’ve provided that individuals classified as residents for tuition purposes may not lose their resident status solely because they have been incarcerated in a correctional facility in Florida. DeSantis said the state should “not reward criminal activity by providing inmates with the same benefits as law-abiding citizens.”

(Panama City Beach-Government/Facebook)

SB 494 would’ve waived both the graduate record examination and the grade management admission test for service members applying for admission into graduate programs at state institutions that require the examinations. DeSantis said standardized tests are a necessary component of the admissions process, adding he does not see how dropping the examinations would benefit the institutions or the students.

House Bill 821 would’ve revised the maximum stormwater management user fees for residential, agricultural and commercial parcels of land in the Melbourne-Tillman Water Control District in Brevard County. DeSantis vetoed the bill due to the likelihood that taxpayers would pay higher fees.

HB 473 would’ve provided broad liability protections for state and local governments and private companies that only comply with minimum cybersecurity standards in the event of a cyberattack or data breach. DeSantis said the bill would result in less data security because it incentivizes entities to do the minimum to protect consumer data.

SB 1078 would’ve exempted insurance agents, agencies and service representatives from submitting cellular telephone numbers to the Department of Financial Services as part of the licensure process. DeSantis said Florida’s insurance market is becoming increasingly competitive and he does not see how the bill would serve the public interest.

HB 165 would’ve granted the Florida Department of Health (DOH) authority to close beaches, waterways and swimming pools. DeSantis said the DOH should not have the power to supersede local jurisdictions.

HB 133 would’ve provided a period of time when convictions for crimes may not be grounds for denial of licensure as a barber or cosmetologist. DeSantis said it prohibits the licensing board from accessing an applicant’s criminal history and added there may be a good reason for the board to have such information before approval.

Published July 10, 2024

IRS data shows Florida had the country’s biggest population gains

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(The Center Square) – New migration data from the Internal Revenue Service shows Florida added 245,334 residents in 2022, the most among states.

The total inflow, not adjusted against those leaving the state, was 466,210 in 2022 as 277,527 tax filers with a combined adjusted gross income of $26.6 billion decamped to Florida. 

That’s a 3.23% percentage improvement compared to 2021, when the state gained 451,633 new residents with a combined adjusted gross income of $18.97 billion and 1.3 million residents moving to the state in the last three years.

(Courtesy of Chris Hondros/Newsmakers)

There were 466,040 new residents in 2020, bringing with them more than $17.7 billion in adjusted gross revenue. 

Florida gained the most residents from New York (88,344), Georgia (43,402), California (42,412), New Jersey (41,412) and Texas (37,777).

The data shows that the state that was the biggest destination for Floridians leaving the state was Georgia at 48,301, followed by Texas (38,873), North Carolina (33,289), New York (28,134) and Tennessee (21,485).

California was the biggest loser according to the data, losing more than 307,000 residents worth more than $23 billion in adjusted gross income to other states. New York (lost more than 222,700 residents) was next, followed by Illinois (87,286), Massachusetts (45,259) and New Jersey (37,408). 

Other states with big gains included Texas, which gained 180,870 new residents with a combined adjusted gross income of $10.1 billion, followed by North Carolina (82,620), South Carolina (70,429) and Tennessee (60,593).

Regionally, Florida’s neighbors also grew, with Georgia adding 50,969 new residents with a combined adjusted gross income of $705 million and Alabama with 22,432 additions worth $793 million.

Other data shows the same trend of Florida growing its population at the expense of other states. 

From April 1, 2020, to July 1, 2023, Florida had a net migration gain of 818,762, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Two migration reports from moving companies released in January also showed Florida was a prime destination. 

Published July 10, 2024

Moody, Florida officers shut down another fentanyl trafficking ring

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(The Center Square) – A multi-agency operation led by Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd’s office has crippled another fentanyl trafficking ring, this time in Lakeland.

It comes on the heels of another successful drug bust Judd announced in April after investigators disrupted a Mexican drug trafficking organization operating in several states. Through that organization, they seized the largest amount of fentanyl in county history — enough to kill one-third of the state’s population, The Center Square reported.

The latest operation, Operation Rooske, took three years and culminated with the arrests of 64 people. The drug trafficking organization, investigators found, was being run out of two small businesses, a bait-and-tackle shop and a motorcycle shop. The drugs were then sold and distributed in Polk and Osceola counties.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd holds a bag of flour, illustrating 2/10 of a gram of fentanyl. (Polk County Sheriff’s Office/Facebook)

Operation Rooske began in January 2021 when detectives initially believed they were investigating a low-level street dealer. They soon realized the alleged drug dealers were “cranking out 500 to 1,000 bags” of 2/10 of a gram of fentanyl, Judd said at a news conference on June 28.

He held up a small dime-sized bag of flour to illustrate how much fentanyl was being sold. As a result of their investigation, they seized enough fentanyl to kill 371,000 Floridians.

“In essence, this fentanyl trafficking organization was the family business,” Judd said. “The motorcycle shop and the bait shop were corrupt businesses that were used as a means for money laundering. Their customers weren’t involved; they had no idea what was going on. In fact, the owners tried to project a wholesome facade while conducting their criminal enterprise behind the scenes until it all came crashing down on them, thanks to the fantastic work by our detectives.”

The sheriff’s office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution were involved in the investigation.

Organized Crime Unit detectives from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and special agents from FDLE conducted multiple undercover purchases of fentanyl from the bait-and-tackle and motorcycle parts shops. They were able to build a case and eventually arrest who they characterized as the leader of the organization, a 43-year-old Lakeland resident whose key co-conspirators were his wife and daughter.

On June 20, six search warrants were served in Polk and Osceola counties resulting in investigators seizing more than 742 grams of fentanyl, more than 13 grams of methamphetamine and more than 228 grams of marijuana with a combined street value of more than $475,000. They also seized assets worth more than $600,000.

“While most of the arrests were buyers of illegal drugs from the Rooske organization, detectives used those arrests to lead back to and build a case against the organization,” the sheriff’s office said.

Investigators found that the group generally sold small quantities of drugs attempting to avoid being detected. They also used “countersurveillance techniques,” including having cameras outside of their residences and businesses, using multiple cellphones and changing the location of their drug deals, investigators found.

Moody’s office charged nine defendants with felony counts of Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO), conspiracy to commit RICO, and fentanyl trafficking, among other charges.

“Florida leads the nation in fentanyl seizures, and this case is yet another example of how Sheriff Grady Judd and his deputies are leaders in helping us remove deadly drugs from our streets,” Moody said. “Working with Polk County deputies and FDLE, we were able to seize 742 grams of fentanyl in two counties. That is enough poison to kill 371,000 Floridians, and I have no doubt that this drug-interdiction operation saved lives.”

Her office is prosecuting nine cases, the remaining single-judicial circuit cases will be handled by the local state attorney, her office said.

Judd announced the results of their investigation one week after Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood announced the result of a major drug bust in Volusia and Putnam counties, The Center Square reported.

That was after another multi-agency effort busted a human trafficking ring tied to the border operating in Manatee and Hillsborough counties, The Center Square reported.

Published July 10, 2024

New law in effect to protect against moving scams

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(The Center Square) – As more people continue to relocate to Florida, the legislature took action to protect them and Floridians from moving scams.

Florida’s new law requires moving companies to register with the state, provide clear contracts, and avoid misleading advertising. It also increases penalties for moving companies that refuse a lawful order to return private possessions to a client.

“In an effort to protect those moving to or within Florida,” the Florida attorney general’s Consumer Protection Team is taking action against more than 18 movers and moving brokers that reportedly scammed consumers, Florida Attorney General (AG) Ashley Moody said. Since she took office in January 2019, her office’s consumer protection investigations have led to approximately $27 million in fines and restitution from moving firms, her office says.

(ruizluquepaz/Getty Images)

The new law amended Chapter 507 of the Florida Statutes by creating a series of consumer protections for household moving services. All moving companies and brokers are required to register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, “ensuring proper vetting and authorization to operate.” All movers and brokers that conduct interstate moves are also required to be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

They are also required to provide “detailed and clear estimates and contracts to customers, outlining all potential costs, dates and terms,” and moving brokers are prohibited from issuing contracts for services that include estimated moving costs, according to the law.

New guidelines were created related to advertising for moving services, including requiring that a company’s registration status be disclosed.

Violators face a third-degree felony charge and fine of up to $50,000 “if a mover or mover’s employee, agent or contractor refuses to comply with an order from a law enforcement officer to relinquish a shipper’s household goods in certain situations,” Moody’s office said.

The new law went into effect Monday as the Internal Revenue released its latest migration data revealing that Florida gained more new residents than any other state in 2022, The Center Square reported.

Moody also announced a new resource is available to educate the public about mover scams. 

“Moving is stressful, and deceitful movers can compound the stress involved with relocating,” Moody said. “Starting today in Florida, there is a new law in place to better protect consumers trying to relocate. To highlight these changes and equip Floridians with the tools they need to spot and avoid moving scams, we are updating our Scams at a Glance: On the Move resource.”

The AG’s “Scams at a Glance: On the Move” resource provides tips and guidelines to help consumers understand the law and avoid being taken advantage of. It’s available online for free in English and Spanish.

Consumers are encouraged to check a moving company’s licensing at FMCSA.DOT.gov/Protect-Your-Move, and find out if intrastate movers and brokers are licensed with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services here: FDACS.gov/Consumer-Resources.

Consumers are also encouraged to report a moving scam to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services by filing a complaint online or calling 1-800-HELP-FLA (435-7352).

The resources are part of a large public awareness campaign launched by Moody’s office called “Scams at a Glance.” The consumer outreach program often publishes information about common and emerging scams to help protect consumers from falling victim to fraud and scams.

They can also learn of all recent consumer protection alerts here: MyFloridaLegal.com/Consumer Alert.

Published July 10, 2024

Three ways to look and feel your best in summer

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The hottest days of the year can create a number of seasonal beauty challenges. Here’s a head-to-toe guide to looking and feeling your best in summer:

Hair
Both dry heat and humidity can cause hair problems, like drying and frizzing. Whether you’re hitting the beach or pool or just enjoying the warm weather, it’s essential to give your hair the care it deserves to stay both hydrated and frizz-free.

When enjoying the sun, try protective hairstyles such as buns, braids and ponytails. This will reduce frizz while preventing damage from wind and humidity. One bonus benefit to these ‘dos is that getting your tresses off your neck will also help keep you nice and cool.

(Philipp Cordts/Unsplash)

Remember that just like drinking water hydrates your body, using the right shampoo and conditioner can both replenish and protect dehydrated strands. Your shampoo and conditioner should clean well, replenish, and smooth and condition to fight frizz and lock in the right balance of moisture.

Skin
Unfortunately, summer activities and fashion choices can be associated with a number of skin care woes.

After swim sessions, take a quick shower to rinse off chlorine and prevent sensitivity and dryness. Whether you go for a run or play pickleball, don’t sit around in your workout clothes afterward. Showering after sweat sessions of all kinds can help keep your skin clear of blemishes.

You may also be shaving more frequently in summer. Prevent razor burn with exfoliation and by using aftercare products that soothe skin.

Finally, when it comes to your long-term beauty and wellness, it’s essential to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum SPF. Doing so is not only good for you, it can help prevent the appearance of aging.

Nails
If you’ll be wearing sandals regularly this summer, you’ll want to treat your feet to regular pedicures so they look their best. Start an at-home pedicure session by soaking your feet in a bath prepared with Epsom salt or essential oils. Dry your feet, then use a pumice stone to gently remove dried skin and calluses. After clipping and shaping your nails, consider painting them with clear nail polish for a finished look, or go bold with a bright summer color.

With a few tweaks to your beauty regimen, you can wholly embrace the season while looking and feeling your best.

-StatePoint

Published July 10, 2024

Lutz softball team headed to World Series

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(Courtesy of Amanda Torres)

The 8u Lutz girls softball all-star team has won its first-ever state championship after winning the state tournament. Following their wins at the district and state tournaments, they are now headed to the World Series, which begins July 24 in Florence, Alabama.