Local News

Pasco signals that it will ban retail rabbit sales

July 5, 2022 By B.C. Manion

It’s not official yet, but the Pasco County Commission said it wants to end the retail sale of rabbits, except for agricultural uses.

The board voted on June 21 to end the retail sale of rabbits at flea markets, open-air venues, parking lots and other public places. It also voted to bring back a future amendment to its ordinance that would ban the retail sale of rabbits, except for agricultural uses.

The action followed testimony by advocates for the ban, who have been seeking the change for months. Those asking for the ban told commissioners that rabbit purchases frequently are impulse buys, especially around Easter.

Many buyers are unaware of the care that rabbits require, which leads to a large percentage of rabbits being abandoned, they said.

The creatures are not well-equipped to survive in the wild, so the abandonment typically leads to death, the advocates have told commissioners in the past and reiterated their concerns at the recent meeting.

The commission was not able to call for an outright ban during its meeting last week because the public notice did not include that provision, but the issue will be placed on a future agenda, according to a motion by Commissioner Mike Moore, which the board approved.

On another matter, the county board approved the acquisition of the Florida Governmental Utility Authority Lindrick Utility System for $24 million, using American Rescue Plan Act grant funds.

Lindrick customers will transition to county rates, representing a 41.75% reduction in the average water/sewer bill.

The acquisition area includes 3.24 square miles, and represents 3,161 water accounts and 2,661 sewer accounts, according to materials in the board’s agenda packet.

In other action, the board:

Approved changes in the comprehensive plan involving the types of uses allowed in the Gateway Hub area, at the northwest corner of State Road 52 and Interstate 75. A rezoning request to designate the area as a master-planned unit development (MPUD) is being processed.
Approved a change to the county’s land use plan on 188 acres on State Road 52, west of Bellamy Brothers Boulevard. A rezoning petition to create a MPUD with a maximum of 380 single-family attached and detached dwellings also was approved on the site. The property is across State Road 52 from the Central Pasco Employment Village, and across Bellamy Brothers Boulevard from the Gateway Hub and the Hillcrest Preserve MPUD. It also abuts the Fort King MPUD.
Approved a rezoning request by MMLJ Holdings LLC and Christina H. Dilorenzo for a rezoning to allow Hillcrest MPUD, a development on 740 acres at the northeast quadrant of State Road 52 and Bellamy Brothers Boulevard. It is expected to include up to 1,800 single-family detached units, 600 single-family townhouses, 450,000 square feet of retail and 200,000 square feet of light industrial/office.
Approved a county-initiated rezoning on a 0.92-acre site on the north and side of Chapman Street, east of Pine Products Road and west of Bower Road. The applicant is One Lacoochee Center Inc./WREC Property-EDC. The rezoning was from a high density residential category a light industrial park district.
Approved updates to the county’s land development code relating to the sign regulations. The changes were needed to allow digital signs in certain districts of the county and to comply with a United States Supreme Court decision, Reed v. Town of Gilbert, Arizona.
Authorized the distribution of more than $23.3 million in school impact fees to the Pasco County School Board. The fees are associated with new construction and are collected by the county. The money is used to provide additional schools to accommodate growth. Revenues collected have been higher than anticipated because of the pace of building, as well as the timing of the rate increase in 2020. The amount being distributed is based on an estimate of the total through the end of fiscal year 2022.
Approved a budget amendment for slightly more than $2.1 million for expenses associated with additional staff, maintenance and system operations for fiscal year 2022.
Adopted a resolution recognizing former Speaker of the House Will Weatherford, for the many contributions he made to Pasco County through his public service. Projects he championed as a legislator included securing the funding for two lanes of the extension of State Road, from Meadow Pointe Boulevard to U.S. 301; construction for the Porter campus of Pasco-Hernando State College and for the College’s Instructional Performing Arts Center, according to the resolution. It also notes that Weatherford’s commitment to public service in the greater Tampa Bay area continues as he currently is the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the University of South Florida and was co-chairman of the host committee for Super Bowl LV in Tampa in 2021.

Published July 06, 2022

Political Agenda 07/06/2022

July 5, 2022 By B.C. Manion

Precinct lines changed
The Pasco County Commission recently approved changes to some precinct lines that were brought forward by Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley.

The following precinct lines have been modified:

Precinct 9 and Precinct 76: Precinct 76 was split by a Florida House District line. The portion of Precinct 76 lying west of the House District line will be combined with Precinct 9.
Precinct 90 and Precinct 101: Precinct 101 was modified to accommodate additional census blocks pertinent to its respective Community Development District from District 90 to meet the census block requirements in accordance with state law.
Precinct lines of 011, 031, 36 and 095 were modified to include the census block requirements under state law and to conform to new congressional lines. No voters are affected by this change.

Democratic Club meeting
The East Pasco Democratic Club is set to meet remotely, via Zoom, on July 18. The speaker will address the referendum on raises, which voters will decide on the primary ballot. Socializing begins at 6 p.m., with the meeting starting promptly at 6:30 p.m. Email , or call 813-383-8315 for details.

Pasco Republican Party
The Pasco Republican Party of Florida recently had a ribbon-cutting at its second office, at 14341 Seventh St., in Zephyrhills. A celebration was held on June 14 to mark the office’s opening.

Be ready to vote
Here are some reminders from Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley, to help you to be sure you are ready to vote. (These pointers are excerpted from Corley’s Corner, a column posted on election supervisor’s website).

In addition to registering to vote, make sure your voter registration is up to date with your current name, address, party affiliation, and signature. Address changes can be done by telephone, online, or by written notification. Failure to update your address prior to Election Day could result in delays at the polls.
Check your voter registration online at PascoVotes.gov or by calling 800-851-8754. Don’t wait until Election Day to make sure you are registered and your registration is in good standing.
In addition to partisan contests on the Primary Election ballot, nonpartisan races, such as school board members and judges, are elected at large and are on every voter’s ballot. These offices are assigned specific geographical areas, but are elected by all voters.
Use your sample ballot to help expedite voting at the polls. Mark your sample ballot and take it with you, so you can copy your choices onto your official ballot.
Due to redistricting and facility agreements, some polling locations have changed. Once redistricting is complete, all voters will be sent a new voter information card that will list their new districts and their assigned polling location. We anticipate mailing the new information cards around the middle of June. If you have not maintained a current address with my office, you may not receive your new card.
Information relating to voter registration deadlines, closed Primary Elections, polling places,
early voting, voting by mail, etc. can be found at PascoVotes.gov.

Endorsement
The American Association of Senior Citizens has endorsed Gus Bilirakis, who is running for reelection in Florida’s 12th congressional district, according to the Bilirakis campaign.

Park passes offered at public libraries

July 5, 2022 By Mary Rathman

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Florida State Parks and its partners are advancing outdoor access for all Floridians through the Real Florida Reader Program.

Through a partnership with the Florida Department of State’s Division of Library and Information Services, public libraries across the state and the DEP, library patrons now can check out a Real Florida Reader pass at their local public library for free admission to one of more than 170 participating state parks, according to a news release.

The 2022 library summer reading theme is “Oceans of Possibilities.”

“A visit to one of Florida’s state parks goes hand-in-hand with a visit to the library,” said DEP Secretary Shawn Hamilton, in the release.

“We welcome all Floridians to read about our state’s diverse environment and culture, and then get outside and experience these natural wonders firsthand,” said Hamilton.

Floridians can use their public library card to check out a Real Florida Reader day pass, which provides free admission to state parks for up to eight people in a vehicle. The pass excludes Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, Skyway Fishing Pier State Park and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.

The promotion will run through Sept. 12.

Those without a library card can sign up at their local library to take part in the program.

Visit FloridaStateParks.org/RealFloridaReader for more details, park exclusions, and library guidelines and policies.

Published July 06, 2022

Basketball coach’s influence honored at Land O’ Lakes High

June 28, 2022 By B.C. Manion

For over three decades, he ran basketball players up and down the court — getting them ready for big moments, in big games, in big seasons.

On the evening of June 21, retired Land O’ Lakes High School basketball coach Dave Puhalski had a big moment of his own: That’s when the Pasco County School Board approved a request to name the Land O’ Lakes High School gym after him.

The effort to honor the coach in this way was brought forward by Ric Mellin, the school’s principal, and Heather Wall, the school’s assistant principal. Former assistant coaches, players and others were there, too, to signal their support.

From left: Land O’ Lakes High Principal Ric Mellin; Coach Dave Puhalski; the coach’s wife, Erika; the coach’s children, DD and Kenzie; and Land O’ Lakes High Assistant Principal Heather Wall. (Courtesy of Ric Mellin/Land O’ Lakes High School)

The coach retired in May of 2021.

Mellin addressed the board: “I’m here tonight to speak with you about the dedication of the gym at Land O’ Lakes High School, in honor of Coach Dave Puhalski.

Cheers and applause erupted from the crowd.

“He’s here with his wife Erika, daughter Kenzie and son DD, and I just wanted to mention, both of them are alumni of Land O’ Lakes High School.

“And, as you can tell from the applause, many of his other supporters are also here with us tonight.

“My letter included in the board’s agenda states the reasons why we believe this honor is warranted.

“For just over 30 years, Coach Puhalski served as the head coach of the boys’ basketball team, winning nearly 500 games, earning six conference and six district championships, and taking 15 teams to the playoffs. Very few, if any, coaches ever reached that level of success.

“But more important than the accomplishments on the court were the strong relationships built along the way, as a well-respected mentor and educator at the school during that same time.

“Coach Puhalski taught thousands of students and had a remarkable influence on everyone. In a Tampa Bay Times article about Coach Puhalski, published in February 2020, it stated his hope was for the program to continue standing solidly on the foundation that he built.

“A foundation full of heart and soul.

“In recognition of Coach Puhalski’s successes and devout allegiance to the school’s athletes and programs and the community in which he served for over three decades, we are requesting that the school’s gym be named the Dave Puhalski Gymnasium at Land O’ Lakes High School.

“It certainly has the solid foundation because of his body of work. His name displayed will serve as a stronger reminder of the person that relentlessly gave his heart and soul.”

Assistant Principal Wall also expressed her support: “As a member of the Land O’ Lakes community for more than 20 years, and now in my role as assistant principal at Land O’ Lakes High School, I’ve had the privilege of knowing or working with Coach Puhalski for quite a few years.

This rendering shows the Land O’ Lakes High School gymnasium, which has been newly christened the Dave Pulhaski Gymnasium at Land O’ Lakes High.

“My husband, and many of his friends all played high school basketball for Coach Puhalski, when they attended Land O’ Lakes High School.

“I have heard endless recounts of big games, as well as stories and pranks that are only fit for locker room conversations,” Wall said, with the audience responding in laughter.

“What they remember the most are the life lessons that were gained from being a part of his program.

“I have seen pictures of Coach Puhalski speaking at former players’ weddings, and know that several years ago, he had the honor to speak at the funeral of one of his former players, Dave Starkey.

“Clearly, he has been asked to carry this role because of the difference he has made in the lives of all of his players.

“When I joined the staff at Land O’ Lakes High School in 2018, I was able to get to know Coach P on my own. I quickly saw the positive impact he made on so many of the students on our campus — both those who played for him and for some who were just in his P.E. classes. He became a mentor and a role model for my son, as well,” she said, noting he still asks about her son.

This coach left an impression
“When you talk to people who live in our community and they find out that you work at the high school, they’re always quick to ask about several of our past coaches,” she said.

People frequently mention that they played soccer, football, baseball or basketball for one of the school’s revered coaches, she added. She noted the school already has named its soccer, baseball and football fields after the outstanding former coaches.

“We would be remiss if we did not honor Coach Puhalski with naming the gym after his 32-year commitment to Land O’ Lakes High School,” Wall added.

“I know I speak for many community members and former players when I say he is so deserving of this honor,” Wall said.

On a motion by Colleen Beaudoin and a second by Megan Harding, the school board unanimously approved the request.

Its action was greeted by another round of cheers and applause.

Coach Puhalski addressed the board: “If I said what I really want to say, we’d be here a long time tonight. I would just like to thank the board for this opportunity and all of my friends, former players, assistant coaches — especially my wife (Erika), who was there for 32 years, and my children (DD and Kenzie).

“I’ll keep it that brief, because, like I said, we’d be here until the lights are off,” he said.

Published June 29, 2022

Lutz parade back with a bang

June 28, 2022 By Mike Camunas

The excitement is palpable — like waiting for a firework to illuminate the night sky.

The annual Lutz Fourth of July Celebration and Parade is back on. Following a two-year COVID pandemic hiatus, the little town in northern Hillsborough County is ready to celebrate independence, and its citizens, once again.

“We sure hope everyone is excited for it to be back,” said Jennifer Rankin, this year’s parade organizer. “Because everyone (behind the scenes), who are helping and putting it together — that’s all I see, and they’re super excited for it. I also see everyone posting on Facebook or online about their excitement, so we just hope — for all the people involved and who have spent so much time and work to put it together — that everyone is just as excited as we are for it to be back.”
Back in 2020, with the pandemic raging, businesses closed, and severe mask and six-foot rules in effect, organizers deemed it too risky to host the event that’s been going on for more than 75 years. Last year, too many of these hurdles still remained.

The annual Lutz Fourth of July Parade, seen here in 2018, has been on a two-year hiatus due to COVID-related concerns. However, this year’s edition is back on and ready to feature more than 40 floats from local businesses and organizations, the 5K race, the cake contest and the return of the Guv’na announcement. (File)

Now, the parade, the 5K and mile fun run, the cake contest and, of course, the Guv’na Race all are back in full force.

This year’s parade, Rankin said, should feature more than 40 floats. She even expects several new floats, as a popular Fourth of July parade in Brandon was canceled and many from that might join the Lutz parade.

“I know that we’ll get at least seven more floats because I’m one of them that still needs to sign up,” Rankin said with a laugh and referring to her business, Al’s Lawn Care Products and Services.

Rankin herself is most excited for the cake contest to return, as she says the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Women’s Club takes all the cakes and auctions them off to help fund the parade and the nonprofits.

“A lot of people meander off and don’t see the cakes because of the parade,” she added, “but that’s my favorite part of the whole day!”

The parade also will include widely known local organizations, such as the Little Women of Lutz, the Lutz Civic Association, Boy Scout Troop 12 and the North Tampa Lutz Cadet Squadron. Local businesses, churches, law enforcement agencies, schools, military organizations, politicians and more also will be in attendance, several of them with floats coming down Lutz Lake Fern Road and ending at the Lutz Junction Train Depot, in front of Lutz Branch Library.

The annual Lutz Fourth of July Parade ends here at the Lutz Junction Train Depot, at the corner of Lutz Lake Fern Road and U.S. 41. It’s here that the newest Lutz Guv’na will be announced from candidates Atlas Cortecero, David Penzer and Stacee Campbell. (Mike Camunas)

Also back are the candidates for the honorary Lutz Guv’na, one of whom will be replacing current Guv’na Amy Lancaster, who has held “office” for two years now.

Candidates Atlas Cortecero, David Penzer and Stacee Campbell have been hitting the campaign trail hard, looking to raise the most money and earn that coveted Guv’na sash.

“All the candidates have done more events so far than I have ever seen done in past years,” said Rankin, who was the 2015 Guv’na. “I think they are so excited to be around people, to do stuff, and each one of them is having a crazy amount of events and a crazy amount of people turning up for them.

“As a former Guv, I would get down in the dumps if not many people came to one of my fundraisers, but the turnouts (to theirs) have been incredible.”

Rankin said adding the parade back into the mix not only has helped the Guv’na race, but goes back to benefiting those who really matter: local nonprofits and charities.

Which is why she also feels the parade could be one of the best ever.

“You don’t realize how much it hurts (the nonprofits and charities) by not having (the parade and the Guv’na Race) the past two years,” she said. “Because some really need it, like the Old Schoolhouse, which needs new windows and gates, and termite treatment. Or the Civil Air Patrol or the Girl and Boy Scouts. This year all of them could receive more (contributions) than ever, and it’s all because everything that makes Lutz Lutz, is finally back.”

Annual Lutz Fourth of July Parade
Where: Corner of Lutz Lake Fern Road and U.S. 41
When: July 4, with festivities starting at 7:15 a.m., the 5K starting at 8 a.m., and the parade at 10 a.m.
Details: A parade featuring floats, antique cars, fire trucks, sheriff’s patrol cars, local organizations, a cake contest and announcement of the 2022 Lutz Guv’na.
Info: Visit tinyurl.com/ywjx2da4.

Other events

Starkey Market’s Annual Fourth of July Extravaganza
Where: 3460 Starkey Blvd., New Port Richey
When: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Details: A family friendly evening of fun, food, fireworks, music. Bring your own chairs and blankets to enjoy a space in the huge open field. Children ages 6 and younger get free admission, and limited tickets are available.
Cost: $10-$25
Info/tickets: Visit tinyurl.com/bdh9vjs7.

Seventh Annual Zephyrhills Summerfest: An Independence Day Celebration
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave.
When: July 2, noon to 9:30 p.m.
Details: A daylong festival featuring food and drink vendors, local merchants, and fireworks at dark.
Info: Call 727-674-1464.

Fourth of July Celebration at Avalon Park
Where: 33613 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel
When: July 4, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Details: Patriotic bake-off, bike parade, bounce houses, food trucks, community performances, vendors and more, before fireworks at 9 p.m.
Info: Visit AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com, or call 813-783-1515.

Fourth of July Bash!
Where: Plantation Palms, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
When: July 2, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Details: Live music, and food and drink specials, at the neighborhood clubhouse and restaurant, Mulligan’s. Prizes for most patriotic dressed.
Info: Visit Facebook.com/PPgolfclub.

Published June 29, 2022

Another Pasco deal expected to yield 2,400 jobs

June 28, 2022 By B.C. Manion

The Pasco County Commission has approved another economic incentive deal — this one expected to yield 2,400 jobs when completed.

The county board approved a $6.3 million incentive package for the project, to be funded through property tax rebates.

In a separate action, the board approved a substantial modification to a previously approved master-planned unit development for the site, increasing its size as well as its permitted industrial development.

The approximately 225-acre site is near the northeast corner of Interstate 75 and State Road 52.

The planned industrial project is a 1.4 million-square-foot build-to-suit distribution center, according to David Engel, director of the county’s office on economic growth.

Northpoint Development LLC, which will build the project, is the “largest privately held industrial developer in North America,” according to attorney Clarke Hobby, who represents Northpoint.

In briefing the county board on the economic development incentive, Engel said: “Originally, it (the site) was smaller, but the developer has acquired an additional 56 acres to the north to accommodate a larger building footprint.

“The developer estimates the building and land development improvements will total $205 million and the equipment in the building will be approximately $100 million,” Engel said.

“There is discussion of putting in a 500,000-square-foot mezzanine, bringing the build-to-suit building up to approximately 1.9 million square feet in floor area,” he added.

The project will necessitate $9.9 million in road improvements, Engel said. The developer has requested $6.3 million in assistance.

“We’re proposing to pay the developer back in ad valorem taxes over 20 years, which will amount to 33% of the tax flow that goes into the general fund.

“In the event that the project with the build-to-suit does not come to fruition, the developer will default back to the original entitlement of 1,150,000 square feet,” Engel added.

“It’s still a very cost-effective proposition for the county because the incentive comes at a minimum of $5.50 a square foot versus the other spec buildings that we’ve done in the past, which range from $9.60 a square foot to $10.”

“The general fund projected revenue over the 10-year period will be $19.1 million, so when you net out the $6.3 million ad valorem assistance, the general fund will capture at least $12.8 million in revenue,” Engel said. “The annual gross county product contribution is $282 million.

“The current return on investment is $1 gives us $195,” Engel said. “This is a completely performance-based deal,” he added.

Hobby told the board: “This is an exciting project. I can’t talk about the end-user here, but the project is being designed and will be constructed for a major regional distribution center that will include a significant number of jobs.

“If for some reason the end-user went away on this project, no money will be advanced, unless my client goes out and builds this enormous building anyway.

“It’s a huge net benefit to the county even if the end-user didn’t come.

“I’m happy to say that my client is so confident in the deal happening that we’re planning on starting construction in late August, to early September,” Hobby said.

Commissioner Ron Oakley expressed enthusiasm for the project.

“District 1 in East Pasco is starting to grow more and more, with Pasco Town Center (a recently approved economic incentive deal nearby) and then this project, too. A lot of great things happening, a lot of jobs being created for our citizens, in East Pasco,” Oakley said.

Hobby added: “This is a big deal. This building is almost a half-mile wide.”

Engel said the floor area size is comparable to two football fields.

Hobby told the board: “Coming from Dade City, it had such a huge employment base, it really made a wonderful town, a lot of middle-income earning opportunities. So, for me, the jobs are really key to creating a community. That’s why I’m so passionate about it.”

Published June 29, 2022

Above-average Hurricane Season predicted

June 28, 2022 By B.C. Manion

Activity in Hurricane Season 2022 is expected to be above-average, said Andrew Fossa, director of emergency management for Pasco County.
“Based on the forecasts, and talking to the local meteorologist and the state meteorologist, it’s going to be an above-active season, and they’re also predicting that with this above-active season that the storms are going to be more intense.”

“This year spun up a little, I’ll say it like this, ‘a little wonky,’” Fossa said, referring to severe thunderstorms “at a time of a year that we never get severe weather.”

Typically, that type of weather doesn’t start here until sometime near the end of June through mid-July, he said.

Hurricane Irma caused major disruptions. It toppled trees, shredded billboards, caused flooding, and knocked out power to hundreds of thousands in Pasco County. Hurricane Season 2022 is expected to be above average. (File)

The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season predicts a 65% chance of an above-normal season, a 25% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.

NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms in the 2022 season, with winds of 39 mph or higher. Of those, six to 10 could become hurricanes, with winds of 74 mph or higher. Three to six of those could be become major hurricanes, in categories three, four or five, with winds of 111 mph or higher. NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence, the website says.

The Colorado State University Tropical Meteorology Project team is predicting 20 named storms in 2022. Of those, researchers expect 10 to become hurricanes and five to reach major hurricane strength.

Hurricane season runs from June 1 through Nov. 30.

One of the big changes in Pasco County this year is the opening of a new hurricane evacuation route.

County leaders have been pushing for decades to extend Ridge Road from Moon Lake Road in New Port Richey eventually over to U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes.

The extension has been completed to the Suncoast Parkway and is expected to reach U.S. 41 in 2025.

This year’s hurricane season is expected to have above-normal activity. (Courtesy of NOAA)

The opening of the four-lane road provides a new route to help move people away from the county’s coastal areas.

If evacuations become necessary, the county will use all four lanes of Ridge Road, to help motorists travel to the east. Since the road is under the county’s jurisdiction, it will be in charge of its directional flow.

On another matter, the county plans to return to its pre-COVID-19 setup for hurricane shelters.

For the past two years, the county’s shelter capacity had been significantly reduced because of space required for social distancing due to potential risks during the pandemic, the emergency management director said.

“This year, we pretty much went back to a normal status,” Fossa said, with the same square footage allotted per family, as it had provided before COVID’s threat.

“One of the biggest things we kept in place are the masks, even though they’re not mandated. They still will be recommended for people who have health issues, or (who) just feel safer wearing the mask in a building that’s going to be full of people,” Fossa said.

If pandemic concerns resurface, the county will adapt, he said.

The emergency management expert also noted that Pasco is in a better position now to respond to rescue people trapped by high water.

During Irma, in 2017, the Anclote River, in Elfers, flooded.

“We had no available equipment to put in that area, to get people out of their mobile homes that were stranded. So, we were dependent on Hillsborough County’s swift water rescue team to come out and try mitigate those waters to get people out. It’s a very fast current,” Fossa said.

Now, Pasco County Fire Rescue has a swift water team and a technical rescue team.

So the county can depend on its own team, instead of needing to reach out to other municipalities and counties, he said.

The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office also has a boat and high vehicle units that can help with disaster response, Fossa said.

The county also has pumps it can use to address flooding situations and has contracts to secure additional equipment, when needed, Fossa said.

A look at this year’s list for named storms. (Courtesy of NOAA)

Don’t underestimate potential hazards
One challenge that can hinder effective emergency response is a tendency by some to disregard potential dangers, Fossa said.

“Floridians are very complacent when watches and warnings go up. They have that mindset, ‘It’s not going to happen to us,’” Fossa said.

He’s concerned that nonchalant attitude is spreading to new residents.

“They’re not used to seeing a tropical storm or a hurricane,” he said, noting many are more accustomed to dealing with winter storms.

“They really don’t heed the warning, and they actually wait until the last second to try to get a plan together and try to evacuate. Eighty-five percent of the time that is not going to work out,” Fossa said.

If you are planning to evacuate, Fossa recommends you plan on staying “tens of miles away” not “hundreds of miles away.”

Going long distances contributes to congestion, slowing evacuation for everyone, Fossa said.

Also, before returning home, find out what the conditions are where you live, he suggested.

“People like to rush right back to their houses. A lot of times disaster crews are out there trying to do cleanup. You don’t know if you have power to your house.”

Watch news reports and check local alerts — don’t complicate matters by going home too soon, Fossa advised.

Published June 29, 2022
Revised on July 5, 2022

Prepare now, to avoid being sorry later

June 28, 2022 By B.C. Manion

Of course, no one knows when or where the next hurricane or tropical storm will hit — but wherever you live, it’s a good idea to know whether you’ll need to evacuate, or whether you’ll stay in place.

There are a lot of practical things you can do to increase your chances of weathering whatever storm comes our way.

Here’s a list of pointers — compiled from numerous local and national sources — intended to help you before, during and after a disaster strikes.

These signs guide motorists to evacuation routes. Before a hurricane threatens, find out if you live in an evacuation zone, and if so, make a plan of where you will go if you need to leave. Experts say public shelters should be a last resort. They recommend making a plan to stay with other family members or friends who don’t live in an evacuation zone.

BEFORE THE STORM
Know your vulnerabilities

Know your hurricane zone. Be aware that areas of special concern include coastal areas, areas with known flooding problems, mobile homes and homes not secured to their foundation.
If you live in a mandatory evacuation zone, prepare an evacuation plan that includes transportation routes and destinations, and one that considers all family members and pets.
If you will need to evacuate, reach out to family or friends now, to see if you can stay with them. Think in terms of going to a safe place that’s “tens of miles away, not hundreds of miles away.”
If planning to use a public shelter, know where it is and whether it can accommodate you, if you have special needs.
Be sure your evacuation plan includes your pets. Create an emergency kit for your pets.
Whether you are sheltering in place, or evacuating, be sure to share your plans with someone outside of the danger zone.
For those new to the area, find out the area’s history. Is it prone to flooding? Are you in a mandatory evacuation area?
Stayed tuned in. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or other radio or TV stations for the latest storm news.
Follow instructions issued by local officials. If ordered to leave, do so immediately.

PRACTICAL POINTERS

Keep your gas tank at least half full during hurricane season.
Have a go-bag ready. It should include items such as protective clothing, medications, important documents, food, water, fresh batteries, a flashlight and cash.
Create an at-home kit: Include 1 gallon of water per person, per day, for up to seven days; nonperishable foods; a non-electric can opener; hygiene items.
Stock up on paper plates, plastic utensils, plastic cups, a grill, fuel and charcoal.
Have a phone charger that doesn’t require electricity.
Have books and games available, to help pass the time.
Check your emergency equipment: Do you have flashlights with fresh batteries? Does your generator work? Do you have tarps?

High winds can snap giant trees as if they were toothpicks.

PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY

Take actions to reduce potential damage from hurricanes or tropical storms. Have trees trimmed. If high winds are expected, stow unsecured items, such as lawn or pool furniture, wind chimes, potted plants, garbage cans and other objects that can become projectiles in high winds.
Review your insurance policies to be sure you have adequate coverage. Do an inventory of your valuables and take photos of your jewelry, electronics and other big-ticket items.
If you have a boat, be sure to secure it.
Clear out clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
Secure your home. Cover all of your home’s windows. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8-inch exterior grade or marine plywood, built to fit and ready to install. Buy supplies before a hurricane threatens to get the needed supplies and avoid the pre-storm rush.

DURING THE STORM

Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level during the storm. Put as many walls between you and the outside as you can. Stay away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
Close all interior doors. Secure and brace exterior doors.
Fill bathtubs or buckets with water to use for cleaning and toilet flushing.
Don’t be fooled by a lull in the storm. It could be the eye of the storm and the winds could resume.
Stay informed by listening to a NOAA Weather Radio, local news reports and notifications on emergency apps.

Generators enable people to keep their refrigerators and other appliances going when the power goes out, but they must be operated carefully to avoid potential dangers. Do not operate them in enclosed spaces, such as homes or garages. Be sure to read the operating instructions with your unit to avoid potential hazards. (File)

AFTER THE STORM

If you evacuated, return home only after officials say it is safe. Check the local news and local government emergency apps to find out when it is safe to return to your home.
Once home, drive only if necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges. If you must go out, watch for fallen objects in the road, downed electrical wires, and weakened walls, bridges, roads, and sidewalks that might collapse.
Walk carefully around the outside of your home to check for loose power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage.
Stay out of any building if you smell gas, if floodwaters remain around the building, if the structure was damaged by fire or if authorities have declared it unsafe.
Never use a portable generator inside your house or garage. Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the leading causes of death after storms.
Use battery-powered flashlights. Turn on your flashlight before entering a vacated building. The battery could produce a spark that could ignite leaking gas, if present.
Don’t drive into water when you can’t see the bottom of the road. Heed the advice: Turn around, do not drown.
Don’t walk through flooded areas. Fast-moving water could carry you away. The water also could be contaminated with oil, gasoline, raw sewage and other harmful toxins. Also, it is possible that it’s electrically charged from a downed wire.
Be careful about the foods you eat. If the power is out for a prolonged period, your food may have spoiled.
Do not burn charcoal in your house or garage, the fumes can be deadly.

If you’re using a generator, do not plug it into a building’s wiring. This can cause generator back feed, which is extremely dangerous for utility workers and for anyone in the public who comes into contact with a downed electrical wire.

IF YOU HAVE DAMAGE

Call your insurance agent.
Take photos of the damage.
Make emergency repairs to avoid more damage and keep receipts for tarps, lumber and so on.
Use licensed contractors to make repairs. Be wary of potential scams.

For a considerable amount of regarding emergency preparedness, check out the disaster guides available through Pasco County and Hillsborough County. Also, sign up for their alerts. To access those, visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org and https://www.pascocountyfl.net.

Published June 29, 2022

Dayspring Academy is planning a school in Angeline

June 28, 2022 By B.C. Manion

The Pasco County School Board and Creation Foundation, doing business as Dayspring Academy, plan to work together on a new elementary charter school to serve an emerging community in Central Pasco.

The Pasco County School Board approved an agreement at its June 21 meeting, which sets the stage for a new elementary school for 600 students to be built in Angeline, in an area just south of State Road 52 and west of Sunlake Boulevard, according to an agreement in the board’s agenda packet.

Dayspring and the school board have agreed to fund the project through impact fees. The school will serve kindergarten through fifth grade students.

“Dayspring and the school board desire to partner with each other in this endeavor and as such will work to blend the charter school program and curriculum with the future board STEM 6-12 magnet,” the agreement says. The objective is to open the school in 2024.

The agreement also spells out how construction should proceed, how payments will be made, and so on.

Angeline is a new development spanning 6,200 acres, which is south of State Road 52 and east of the Suncoast Parkway. The new 6-12 magnet school already is under construction in the heart of a town center that is near Moffitt Cancer Center’s planned Pasco County campus.

That campus is expected to become a magnet for world-class cancer researchers and life science companies.

The board approved the agreement as part of its consent agenda, meaning it was approved with a number of other agenda items without board discussion.

Published June 29, 2022

Lightning fans taste the joy of victory, agony of defeat

June 28, 2022 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The Colorado Avalanche ended the Tampa Bay Lightning’s bid to take home the Stanley Cup for the third consecutive time.

Instead, the Avalanche clinched the best of seven games finals in Game 6, at Amalie Arena in downtown Tampa.

The Avalanche won 2-1, in a series that had a bit of everything. Each team had a blow-out win, two games were decided in overtime and two games were settled by one-point margins.

Players battled through injuries, and ultimately, the fans were the winners — watching two teams that gave it their all.

Arenas in each town were filled with cheering crowds and there were outdoor watch parties, too, including gatherings at the KRATE, at the Grove at Wesley Chapel.