The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pinecrest Academy Wesley Chapel High charter approved

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The Pasco County School Board has approved a charter application for Pinecrest Academy Wesley Chapel High School, at 33347 State Road 54, in Wesley Chapel.

The approval is for a five-year period, which began July 1 and runs through June 30, 2028.

The approval includes a provision that the term shall be automatically extended on a month-to-month basis until the charter has been renewed, non-renewed, or terminated by the sponsor, according to background materials in the Pasco County School Board’s July 25 agenda packet.

The school is authorized to serve students in grades nine through 12. 

The following is the student enrollment capacity by year: 

  1. Year 1 (2023-2024): Grade nine up to a maximum of 200 students 
  2. Year 2 (2024-2025): Grades nine to 10 up to a maximum of 550 students 
  3. Year 3 (2025-2026): Grades nine to 11 up to a maximum of 900 students 
  4. Year 4 (2026-2027): Grades nine to 12 up to a maximum of 1,250 students 
  5. Year 5 (2027-2028): Grades nine to 12 up to a maximum of 1,400 students

The charter approval allows the school to recruit throughout all segments of the community, using direct mailings, public advertisement, information in the local and community press, and informational meetings at various locations and in English or other languages, as appropriate.

If the number of applications exceeds the capacity of the program, class, grade level, or building, all applicants shall have an equal chance of being admitted through a random selection process. 

Students at the school also are eligible to participate in an interscholastic extracurricular activity at the public school to which the student would be otherwise assigned, the background materials say.

Published August 16, 2023

Staying cool, when it’s hot, hot, hot

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Pasco County employees Rachel Nieto, left, and Stephen Roa fill their water bottles, while Matthew Potts, center, takes a sip and Jimmy Sullivan, wears a water backpack, as he works. (Courtesy of Pasco County)

Pasco County’s Safety Team put together some pointers to help people stay cool – whether they are on the job for the county, or for anyone who is outside mowing the lawn, tending their garden, exercising or exerting themselves in other ways during this sweltering summer.

In a county news release, the safety team says the keys to staying safe are keeping cool, staying hydrated and getting rest.

Keep Cool: Dress for the heat. Wear a hat and light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing when possible. Add a hat with neck shade, cooling neckband, headband, and vest. You can even use a portable neck fan.

Apply a sunscreen 30 minutes before going out in the sun, and reapply the sunscreen every couple of hours.

Stay hydrated: Drink cool water or a hydrating drink often, even if you are not thirsty. Limit caffeine, sugary beverages and alcohol. These beverages cause your body to remove fluids at a much quicker rate, leading to dehydration. Instead, drink an electrolyte replenishment liquid.

Take breaks: Take time to recover from the heat with periodic breaks. Take breaks in a designated shady or cool location.

Published August 23, 2023

Public is invited to help shape Pasco’s future

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Pasco County is establishing its vision for the future and is asking the public to weigh in on the Pasco County 2050 Comprehensive Plan Update.

Here are upcoming opportunities for interested parties to get involved:

  • Aug. 17, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Wesley Chapel District Park, 7727 Boyette Road in Wesley Chapel
  • Aug. 23, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.: Sessions are being held on the same day, at the same time at these two locations: River Ridge High School Gymnasium, 11646 Town Center Road in New Port Richey and at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa. Both of these sessions will cover the same materials, but held in two locations for the convenience of those who would like to take part.

During the workshops, attendees will learn about the community-driven vision derived from the public input received thus far and provide their ideas on potential implementation strategies to include in the update.

Those having questions about the event or the project may contact Hayat Mazili, project manager at 727-847-8140, ext. 7615.

Published August 16, 2023

Higher speed limits save little time, but pose safety risks, study shows

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While it might seem like raising speed limits would save time on the road, an AAA Foundation for Traffic Study found that isn’t necessarily true.

The AAA Foundation’s research found that raising posted speed limits may do little to save time and improve traffic flow, but could lead to more crashes, injuries and deaths, according to a news release from AAA.

The research results varied across 12 roadway sites that the study examined. All had new posted speed limits. Six were higher and six were lower. The study also includes various types of roads, the news release says.

The results showed:

  • Raising posted speed limits was associated with increased crashes on two of three interstate highways.
  • Lowering posted speed limits led to fewer crashes in many cases examined, but the likelihood increased for speed limit violations.
  • Changes in travel times were small, whether the speed limits were raised or lowered.

“Our study found no one-size-fits-all answer regarding the impact of changing speed limits,” Mark Jenkins, spokesman, AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in the release.

“AAA urges transportation officials to apply a “holistic” approach when setting or changing posted speed limits and prioritize safety over speed and capacity,” Jenkin said.

Speeding is a critical factor in vehicle crashes across the nation.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were more than 42,000 traffic deaths in 2021 and again in 2022, the highest levels in 16 years, according to the AAA release.

The NHTSA reports that speeding was a factor in nearly 29% of the fatalities in 2021 and 27% in 2022, the release added.

AAA recommends that changes in posted speed limits should consider a range of factors, including but not limited to the type of road, surrounding land use, and historical crash data. AAA supports automated speed enforcement, but says that programs must be carefully implemented to maintain community support, prioritize equity and consistently drive improved safety. 

“The movement in statehouses to raise speed limits is happening across the country in at least eight states this year,” Jennifer Ryan, director of state relations for AAA, said in the release. “But the benefits are overrated, and the risks are understated. Increasing speed limits does not always yield the positive results envisioned by traffic planners.”

This study is the third phase of the AAA Foundation research examining the effect of posted speed limit changes on safety.

Published August 16, 2023

Orange Belt Trail alternatives are topic of meeting

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The public is invited to attend upcoming meetings to discuss alternatives relating to the planned Orange Belt Trail, which will span roughly 37 miles through Pasco County, from Trinity to Trilby.

Some residents can’t wait for the Orange Belt Trail to come their way, others are resistant. Everyone is welcome to weigh in on Pasco County’s proposed alternatives for the trail that eventually is expected to span roughly 37 miles, from Trinity to Trilby. (File)

The meetings will provide an update on the study, which includes changes based on input received at previous workshops, according to a Pasco County news release.

The project team will present potential alignments, along with maps of the alternative routes.

Team members also will present an evaluation and solicit feedback on the alternatives.

Both meetings will cover the same information.

Here are the meeting dates and places:

  • Aug. 15, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the GFWC Dade City Woman’s Club, 37922 Palm Ave., in Dade City
  • Aug. 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, in Odessa.

The meetings are held open-house style, so participants can come and go.

A brief formal presentation will be given each evening at 6 p.m., and staff will be available to answer questions.

Input collected at the sessions will help Pasco County determine which alternatives will move forward through the study.

A recommended alignment is expected to be presented to the Pasco Board of County Commissioners in mid-2024.

For more information, visit OrangeBeltTrail.com. To learn more about Pasco County Engineering Services, visit MyPas.co/3tzL8N3.

Published August 09, 2023

Bilirakis receives Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award

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U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis has been recognized for championing seniors’ rights.

He has been awarded the Guardian of Seniors’ Rights Award from the American Association of Senior Citizens, according to a news release from Bilirakis’ office.

The award acknowledges Bilirakis’ continuous efforts to preserve critical programs that benefit seniors, such as Medicare and Social Security, the release says.

The congressman also championed a wide range of legislative measures aimed to prevent exploitation, enhance supportive services, ensure access to quality care options and provide financial relief for our nation’s seniors.

Bilirakis has been a strong supporter of the Older Americans Act reauthorization, which provides funding to help seniors age independently in their homes, and of the Community Development Block Grant, which funds critical senior programs, such as Meals on Wheels, the release noted.

He has fought to expand and protect access to Medicare Advantage, a flexible option chosen by nearly half of the seniors who reside throughout Florida’s 12th congressional district. Locally, he also recently secured $2 million in federal funds for a senior center in Central Pasco County and has sponsored a community budget project to provide an additional $2 million in funding for affordable senior housing options throughout Pasco County, according to the release.

“It is said that a society can be judged by how well it treats its most vulnerable populations,” Bilirakis said, in the release.

 “As a former elder law attorney, I understand the challenges that many seniors face as they endeavor to age with dignity – and with as much independence as possible. Record inflation has hit seniors particularly hard, which is unfair given that most live on a fixed income. We have to do more to ensure cost of living adjustment more accurately reflects the pressures seniors face and to ensure they have access to high quality care and treatments. I will always continue fighting to ensure a strong safety net to protect all seniors, and I am honored to receive this prestigious award.”

Published August 09, 2023

Habitat for Humanity gets $2 million in state funding

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Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties has received $2 million in state funding to address affordable housing needs, according to a Habitat news release.

“This milestone signifies a significant step toward addressing the urgent need for safe and affordable housing within Pinellas and West Pasco Counties,” the release says.

“Habitat partnered with Johnston & Stewart Government Strategies to successfully secure funding in this year’s budget,” it adds.

State Sen. Ed Hooper and House Rep. Kim Berfield sponsored the legislation and championed the cause, according to the release.

The funding will be instrumental in supporting Habitat’s Achieving the Dream of Homeownership project, which aims to construct 92 affordable homeownership units across four subdivisions in Pinellas and Pasco counties, the release adds.

The funding will be allocated toward critical horizontal development activities, including infrastructure development, architectural design, civil engineering, and other associated expenses, the release says.

The appropriation will help Habitat for Humanity to have a substantial impact on the lives of deserving families and will contribute to the overall well-being of our community, the release adds.

Mike Sutton, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, reacted to the news this way: “We are overjoyed and deeply grateful for the $2 million state funding allocated to our Achieving the Dream of Homeownership project.

“This remarkable achievement was made possible by the dogged dedication of (State) Sen. Ed Hooper, (State) Rep. Kim Berfield, and all members of the state legislature who championed affordable housing initiatives. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our committed supporters whose tireless efforts have brought us closer to our vision of ensuring everyone has a safe and decent place to call home.

“As we move forward, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties remains determined in its mission to make homeownership dreams a reality for families in need,” he said, in the release.

Published August 09, 2023

Land O’ Lakes church gets new pastor

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(Courtesy of The Land O’ Lakes Church of God)

The Land O’ Lakes Church of God has welcomed Rick and Wanice Fowler as the church’s new pastoral team. The Fowlers are both graduates of Pasco High School and continued their education at Lee University, according to a news release. They have previously pastored in New York, Kentucky, Illinois and Florida. The couple has three children and four grandchildren. They invite all to the Land O’ Lakes Church of God, at 8337 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The Laker/Lutz News hauls in 12 statewide awards

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The Laker/Lutz News recently received 12 statewide honors, including five first-place awards during the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper competition.

Mike Camunas, staff writer and photographer for the newspaper, received 10 of those awards, including four first-place honors.

This photograph, shot by Mike Camunas for The Laker/Lutz News, was deemed the top feature photo in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper contest. The awards were for work published in 2022. (File)

B.C. Manion, editor of the newspaper, won first place in one category and third place, in another.

The stories and photographs receiving honors covered a broad range of topics.

They were singled out for recognition from more than 1,500 entries submitted by 57 weekly newspapers across Florida. The Laker/Lutz News competes in the largest circulation division in the contest.

Judges for the competition included experienced editors and publishers from California, Colorado, Kansas, Maryland, Nebraska, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and Washington.

Here are the contest results for work published in The Laker/Lutz News during 2022.

First place:
Education News: “Zephyrhills High ushers in a brand new look”: Mike Camunas
Faith & Family Reporting: “A smokin’ roadside attraction”: Mike Camunas
Agricultural & Environmental Reporting: “Banded together, for the birds” and “A glowing good time”: Mike Camunas
Feature Photo: “Senior prom”: Mike Camunas
Sports Feature Story: “Champions in cheerleading, and in life”: B.C. Manion

Second place
Portfolio Photography (Robert J. Ellison Memorial Award) : Mike Camunas
Education Feature: “Students soar, in this Sunlake program”: Mike Camunas
Faith & Family Reporting: “First family moves into new village”: Mike Camunas

Third Place
Hurricane Feature Story: “Pitching in to help victims of Hurricane Ian”: Mike Camunas
Sports Photo: Mike Camunas
Sports Page or Section: Mike Camunas
Community History: “Women Trailblazers: They helped carve a path for others”: B.C. Manion

Published August 02, 2023

These girls were part of the South Pasco Predators Pee Wee cheer team, who were the subject of a story by B.C. Manion that was selected as the best sports feature story in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest awards. Shown here are, front base: Lily Kate Paban, Emily Kunze, Payton Lawler, Akilah Polanco, Leah Garner, Ella Cole, Kailynn Fuqua and Isabella Wilson; flyers: Sarah Nubel, Brielle Jordan, Lilianna Haywood, Cora Parks and Kaitlyn Edwards.
Learning Gate Community School first-graders Norianna Marquez, left, and Ava DiPallo closely examine an indigo bunting that environmental resource teacher Jim McGinity just banded and soon will release. Mike Camunas, the writer and photographer on this story, received first place in agricultural and environmental writing in the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest.
Zephyrhills High underwent a two-year, $33-million renovation, which included redesigning the common area to make it more spacious and to provide a prominent location for the school’s massive trophy case. Mike Camunas, the writer and photographer for this story, received a first place award in the education news category of the Florida Press Association’s 2023 Weekly Newspaper Contest.

Clinton Avenue repaving in Dade City delayed

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(Mike Camunas)

The repaving project of Clinton Avenue in Dade City has been delayed indefinitely, according to a news release from Pasco County.

The pavement rehabilitation project had been set to begin July 28, with crews resurfacing the existing roadway and adding new pavement markings.

The county sent out a news release on July 26 saying a new completion date has not been determined.

The segment of Clinton Avenue under construction runs from U.S. Highway 301 to Old Lakeland Highway – in both directions.

When the project does resume, the county said to expect minor delays.

Work hours on the project will be Monday through Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

County officials also said to expect single-lane closures with message boards directing traffic during the weeks-long project, depending on weather conditions.

Published August 02, 2023