The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Lutz Independence Day has tradition, flair

By

The atmosphere was festive as thousands converged on the community of Lutz to celebrate the Fourth of July, on a bright, sunshiny day.

A large crowd gathers along the parade route and watches as Canine Companions proceeds to downtown Lutz.
(Courtesy of Randy Underhill)

The event included a 5-K, a 1-mile fun run, a baking contest, a flag-raising ceremony, a baking contest and, the main attraction — a parade.

 

This Independence Day marked the nation’s 242 birthday, and was the 74th time that Lutz to celebrate.

Vendors were there early, along with a small display of antique farm tractors.

Hundreds of runners for the 5-K and for 1-mile fun run were there early, too, warming up for their races.

The color guards for Boy Scout Troop 12 and the Civil Air Patrol presided over the flag-raising ceremony in front of the Lutz Branch Library.

Jennifer Rankin, right, swears in Domenic DiFante as the new Honorary Guv’na of Lutz, on the platform of the Lutz Train Depot.

People set up their chairs and blankets along the parade route, or sat on the bleachers across from the library.

And, the colors of the day were red, white and blue.

Parade-watchers had plenty to see in a fun-filled, parade that lasted nearly two hours and boasted 63 entries this year.

Vehicles drove by, with flashing lights and sirens, and parade participants tossed candy and beads to the delight of children along the route.

The stage of Lutz’s Train Depot building was the setting for annual changing of the guard, as last year’s Honorary Guv’na Kori Rankin passed along the coveted sash to Domenic DiFante, this year’s winner.

This year, the fundraiser brought in more than $13,600 in donations.

The cake auction was a big hit, as the 22 entries — including cakes, cupcakes and a 5-pound apple pie — fetched bids ranging from $25 to $125.

The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, Inc., the Lutz Civic Association and several local businesses sponsored this year’s celebration.

By Randy Underhill

Published July 11, 2018

Grandmother Luz Breton, of Lutz, holds onto 2-year-old Eva Jimeno, as 7-year-old Sofia Caban, 4-year-old Bella Jimeno, and 4-year-old Victoria Caban, watch the parade and hope for candy and beads to be tossed their way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The top bidder for the Army Truck cake was June Mussleman, who won with a bid of $25. The cake was created by Sarah Robison, age, 15, of Lutz.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andrew Delaney, age 9, a Trinity Oaks student, sits atop an antique Ford tractor as grandpa Rohn Harmer,75, stands by. Both grandpa and grandson took part in the run, with Andrew placing third in the 1-mile run.
Brian Zebrowski, of Lutz, hands his 6-year-old daughter, Gabriella, a treat from the Atomic Trolle, while 4-year-old Tre’Anna Harrison and grandmother Michelle Bollman,owner of the treat mobile, look on.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The flag-raising ceremony was conducted by the color guards of Boy Scout Troop 12 and the Civil Air Patrol, Carmen Rae singing the Star Spangled Banner, in front of the Lutz Branch Library during the Lutz Independence Day festivities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The start of the 8 a.m. 5-K run heading west on Lutz Lake Fern Rd. There were 337 runners in the 5-K and 108 runners in the 1-mile run. Sixteen-year-old Jake Turner, from Brandon won the 5-K with a time of 16:20.

 

Help kids succeed, donate school supplies

By

Every year, students are asked to bring supplies from an ever-growing list to school on the first day.

Efforts are underway to help students who need supplies for the 2018-2019 school year.
(File)

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano is sponsoring a countywide Back-to-School Supply Drive, throughout the month of July, to help alleviate the burden of the families that may not be able to afford the supplies required.

“Gone are the days when a notebook, a pencil and some book covers, often made out of old shopping bags, were what most kids needed,” Fasano said, in a news release.

“Now in addition to backpacks, earbuds, USB drives and a variety of pens, pencils, tape, crayons and other items, they are expected to buy supplies for the classroom as well.”

Too many families struggle to provide for their own children, let alone provide towels, wipes and items for other students to use, he said.

All five tax collector offices will be collecting donations of school supplies. Cash donations also can be made, at any of the locations.

To mail a check, send to Tax Collector Mike Fasano, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526. Note on the memo line: Back-to-School Backpack Promotion.

Schools in each community will receive the supplies soon after the promotional campaign ends.

For more information about the Pasco Tax Collector’s Back-to-School Supply Drive, contact Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at (727) 847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com.

Office locations also can be found at the website.

Published July 11, 2018

Spreading a gospel of love through brown-bag lunches

By

Sharing food with those in need has been part of the Father and Son Love Ministries since its inception, but now the Lutz church has branched out to create a free summer lunch program — with no strings attached.

The church is tucked away in a commercial office plaza, just off State Road 54, at 24156 Foggy Ridge Parkway.

All families and children are welcome to come by the church on Mondays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesdays from noon to 3 p.m., to pick up the free bagged lunches.

Assistant Pastor Ken Waters wears plastic gloves and a hairnet, as he prepares sandwiches for the Father and Son Love Ministries’ free summer lunch program.
(B.C. Manion)

The free Father and Son Love Ministries Summertime Lunch Program runs through Aug. 29, but will be closed on July 4.

Although the program operates just two days a week, the church provides multiple bagged lunches to help families to get from one distribution to the next.

For instance, a family with four or more children will be offered up to two lunches per child, per visit. A family with one to three children will be offered up to three lunches per child per visit.

Each lunch consists of a turkey or peanut butter and jelly sandwich; salad or fruit; cookies, doughnuts or pastry; and, a small bottle of water.

The program aims to send a message of hope to those in need, said Pastor C.J. Johns Sr., who said he felt spiritually compelled to launch the program this year.

“It’s hard for people to be knocked down and still feel dignity,” Johns said. “If you don’t have kids and you’re struggling, what do you do? You’re not lesser than because you don’t have money.

“We’ve turned into a society where if you don’t have an American Express card, you’re a throwaway. It’s ridiculous,” Johns added.

By reducing grocery bills for families, perhaps they’ll be able to pay for summer camps for the kids, go on some family outings, or do other things they enjoy during their summer break, Johns said.

At the very least, he added, it can take some pressure off families: “You don’t have to open a can of Spam every day.”

Assistant Pastor Ken Waters and his wife, Cheryl, typically arrive about an hour before the doors open, to begin preparing the sack lunches.

“We are making sure that these sandwiches are nice and fresh,” the assistant pastor said. “We try to make sure they get a healthy portion (of turkey),” he added, as he layered several slices of meat on two large pieces of bread.

Helping to feed those in need is more important than focusing on strategies to build church membership, said Pastor C.J. Johns Sr., who leads the Father and Son Love Ministries, a church at 24156 Foggy Ridge Parkway in Lutz.

Being involved in the ministry is rewarding, the couple said, adding that they hope those receiving the lunches will enjoy them.

The church covers most of the cost of the free summer lunch program, but Publix helps by donating bread and pastries every Sunday and Wednesday, the assistant pastor said.

The biggest problem so far is that there hasn’t been much traffic.

It’s been difficult to get the word out, Johns said.

He hopes that will change as the church does more outreach to food pantries, apartment complexes and other places where there may be people in need.

Those dropping by to pick up lunches aren’t required to listen to any type of preaching or to sign any paperwork, Johns said. “We don’t need names. ID. Social (Security numbers). They don’t ever have to see me again.”

And, when it comes to how many lunches are provided to a family, the church is operating on an honor system, the pastor added.

The free lunch program isn’t intended as a promotional tool for the church, Johns said.

The only information included in the bagged lunches is a flier listing the program’s days and hours of operation.

The idea is to be of service, and to perhaps serve as an example for others, Johns said.

“We need some boots on the ground. We need ministers who are going to be doing the servant’s work, of serving people,” he said.

In the pastor’s view, doing this kind of work is far more important than focusing on strategies to boost church membership.

He wants to spread a message that: “Maybe there is goodness in the world, maybe somebody does care.”

Assistant pastor Waters agreed it’s important work: “Walk the walk.”

Johns added: “People may think we’re crazy, but I believe we can change this world, one person at a time. I believe it. It’s not a slogan.”

What: Father and Son Love Ministries Summertime Lunch Program
Where: 24156 Foggy Ridge Parkway, Lutz
When: Mondays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesdays from noon to 3 p.m. (through Aug. 29, except for July 4)
Cost: Free
Details: This church ministry provides free sack lunches, as an act of service to others, during the summer months.
Info: Call (813) 383-8410.

Published July 4, 2018

Training underway for Pasco school safety guards

By

Bang. Bang. Bang.

The echoing sound of simulated rounds of ammunition permeate throughout Rushe Middle School in Land O’ Lakes on a recent late June afternoon.

One by one, school safety guard trainees, with 9mm pistols drawn, carefully and methodically traverse stairwells and hallways, checking classrooms, searching to take out a fake assailant armed with an AR-15.

Safety guard training began in June, with a goal of having the guards prepared for duties by August. (Kevin Weiss)

As each active scenario unfolds, Pasco County Sheriff’s Office instructors, such as Sgt. Christopher Squitieri, bark out directives: “Get going, gotta get going! …Know your terrain, where you’re trying to search! Where that gun goes, you go!”

Brice Hayes, a fit 26-year-old with a security background, was out of breath and sweating heavily after one such drill.

When the drill was over, Squitieri debriefed him on the effectiveness in clearing the school, and in assessing and responding to the threat.

Hayes said he pursued the school safety guard position to offer “a helping hand to kids that need help, whether it’s active shooters or a permanent threat in the schools.”

To him, the active shooter drills felt like the real thing, his mind racing throughout.

“You’ve gotta lot of things going through your head, ‘Where’s this guy at? Where’s this guy at? I gotta get to him and kill this guy,’” Hayes said. “There’s no ifs ands or buts about it, no questions — you’ve gotta take the threat out.”

The Pasco County School Board in May approved Superintendent Kurt Browning’s proposal to hire a director of safety and security, and 53 school safety guards, for the district’s elementary schools.

The school board’s action came in response to a 2018 bill passed by the state Legislature and signed by Gov. Rick Scott, in the aftermath of the Valentine’s Day shooting that left 17 dead at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.

The guards must go through at least 132 hours of training that includes mastering various active shooter drills, where guards must search and take out a fake assailant, and render first aid to shooting victims.

The law requires all school districts to provide security at all schools beginning in the 2018-2019 school year. Pasco County Schools has School Resource Officers in its middle and high schools who will continue to be stationed there.

The school safety guards — which are a less expensive option — will be posted at the district’s elementary schools. The guards, who won’t have arrest powers, will make $20 per hour.

Safety guard training began in June, with a goal of having the guards prepared for duties by August.

Before they are stationed at schools, the guards must receive at least 132 hours of training with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.

The main objective: respond and neutralize on-campus threats, particularly in the event of an active shooter.

“We pray to God this never happens, but we’re training for worst case,” said Pasco Sheriff’s Capt. Jared Hill, an ex-green beret who leads the agency’s emergency management division and oversees the guard training program.

Besides active shooter scenarios, guards have been instructed on defensive and less lethal tactics, weapon retention, first aid and CPR. They’ve also undergone diversity training, which was handled by the school district.

“Basically, we’re looking for someone’s that cognizant,” said Pasco Sheriff Sgt. Richard Jones, who helps supervise the guard training program. “We’re looking for proficiency on the range, we’re looking for proficiency in defensive tactics, and, the ability to save lives during the medical portion of the training.”

A Pasco County Sheriff’s deputy plays the role of an assailant armed with an AR-15 in an active shooter training scenario at Rushe Middle School. During the drills he fired simulated ammunition rounds, similar to a paintball or BB gun.

Jones said the guards’ biggest strides have come in its 10 days on the firing range.

“We’re shooting nonstop. We’re shooting upwards to 1,600 rounds, and they’ve improved quite a bit,” Jones said.

In addition to guards being stationed at all Pasco elementary schools, private and charter schools in the county have hired their own guards and have taken advantage of the sheriff’s office training.

Jones said 77 guards are undergoing training this summer with the law enforcement agency. Each has passed background checks, physical and psychological exams, and drug screenings.

Many, like Chuck Balderstone, have an extensive background in either military or law enforcement.

A 28-year veteran of the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Balderstone retired from the agency in 2013, as a lieutenant and commander of the agency’s vice and narcotics unit.

Becoming a school guard was “a no-brainer” for him.

“When you do something like law enforcement for 28 years, you kind of miss it,” Balderstone said. “I certainly didn’t want to be full (time), right back into being a cop again, but this gives me a chance to go back and work with the most important part of our community — our kids.”

Hiring armed guards in all schools, while unfortunate, is necessary in today’s society, Balderstone said.

Pasco Sheriff’s Sgt. Christopher Squitieri, left, debriefs school safety guard Chuck Balderstone following an active shooter drill scenario at Rushe Middle School in Land O’ Lakes.
Balderstone, a 28-year law enforcement veteran, is one of 53 armed guards Pasco County Schools has hired to be stationed at the district’s elementary schools beginning in the 2018-2019 school year.

“I think it’s crazy that its come to that point and we need this, but you know what, times are changing and the bottom line is, we do need it,” he said.

“I think the biggest thing is you never want to see your schools turn into some kind of stockade-type situation,” he said.

There needs to be a balance, he said: “Hey, we’ve got to keep this place safe, but we don’t want to scare these kids.”

The former sheriff’s lieutenant is confident the county’s schools will be in good hands when it comes to campus safety.

Balderstone said he knows many of the people he’s in class with and knows they have many years of experience.

“I know that a lot of us have had as much, if not more training, than a lot of these young deputies working out there now,” Balderstone said.

School safety
The Pasco County School Board in May approved Superintendent Kurt Browning’s proposal to hire a director of safety and security, and 53 school safety guards, for the district’s elementary schools, in addition to the School Resource Officers who work in the district’s middle and high schools. The school board’s action was in response to a 2018 bill that the Legislature passed and Gov. Rick Scott signed into law. That law requires all school districts to provide security at all schools beginning in the 2018-2019 school year.

Published July 4, 2018

Candidates qualify, political groups have meetings

By

Candidates have qualified for the upcoming election, giving voters plenty to consider. Here are candidates in key races during the 2018 election cycle.

Primary voters could decide the outcome for three Pasco County School Board seats. School board races are nonpartisan. Although candidates must live within specific districts, voters countywide select the winners. If a candidate does not receive more than 50 percent of the vote in the Aug. 28 primary, the top two vote-getters will face off on the Nov. 6 general election ballot.

Winners in two Pasco County Commission districts will be decided in the general election.

Key Pasco County races 

Pasco County Commission
District 2
Mike Moore (Rep), incumbent
Kelly Smith (Dem)

District 4
Brandi Geoit (Dem)
Mike Wells (Rep)

Pasco County School Board
District 1
Allen Altman (NPA), incumbent
Kenneth J. Mathis (NPA)
Brian Staver (NPA)

District 3
Cynthia Armstrong (NPA), incumbent
Meghan E. Hamer (NPA)
Heide R. Janshon (NPA)

District 5
Mike Aday (NPA)
Megan C. Harding (NPA)
Kathryn “Kassie” Hutchinson (NPA)
Tara M. O’Connor (NPA)

State and federal races
Florida State Senate
District 10
Michael Cottrell (Dem)
Wilton Simpson (Rep), incumbent

District 16
Ed Hooper, (Rep)
Leo Karruli (Rep)
Amanda Murphy (Dem)

District 20
Joy Gibson (Dem)
John Manners Houman (Rep)
Tom Lee (Rep), incumbent
Kathy Lewis (Dem)

Florida State House
District 36
Linda Jack (Dem)
Amber Mariano (Rep), incumbent

District 38
Danny Burgess (Rep), incumbent
David ‘TK’ Hayes, (NPA)

U.S. House of Representatives
District 12
Gus Michael Bilirakis (Rep), incumbent
Chris Hunter (Dem)
Stephen M. Perenich (Dem)
Angelika Purkis (Dem)
Robert Matthew Tager (Dem)

Mosquito Control, Seat 2 candidates
Andy Carney, Matthew Skeeter Abbott, Cory P. Sommers and Chris Tyler have qualified for this nonpartisan race.

Political meetings

Land O’ Lakes Democrats
The Land O Lakes Democratic Club will meet July 11 at 6:30 p.m. The featured guest will be Chris Hunter, former FBI agent, federal prosecutor, and now a candidate for U.S. Congress. The club also will be talking about boosting voter turnout. The club meets at Brick City Eatery, 16540 Pointe Village Drive, Suite 108, in Lutz.

Wesley Chapel Republican Club
The Wesley Chapel Republican Club will meet July 12 at 6:30 p.m., at Lexus of Wesley Chapel, 5350 Eagleston Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley will speak about the many layers of security protecting the Pasco County voting system, as well as changes in voting laws since the last election. Admission is free, all are welcome, and coffee and homemade desserts will be served. For more information, contact Peter Cracchiolo at (813) 360-9813 or .

Published July 4, 2018

Pasco tax revenues are up this year

By

Rising property values in Pasco County could provide about $11 million in increased revenues.

That’s a bigger windfall than the $10.5 million initially projected.

That extra cash – about $650,000 – would play a key role in helping to close a $3.3 million gap in funding requests for 2019 from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.

Pasco County expected to receive final revenue data by July 1 from the Pasco County Property Appraiser’s office.

The Pasco County Commission received a budget update — including two possible scenarios on the sheriff’s budget — at a June 26 public workshop at Saint Leo University.

Both options on the sheriff’s budget relied on the $650,000 of additional revenue.

County commissioners quickly rejected one option to also withdraw $2.6 million from a reserve fund.

Instead, they accepted a staff recommendation to pair the $650,000 with budget cuts. An estimated $2.4 million for temporary on-site pods at the overcrowded Land O’ Lakes Detention Center would be delayed until 2020. And, a proposed $250,000 for Safety Town would be eliminated.

Commissioners agreed with the staff’s recommendation, except for cutting the Safety Town proposal.

Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Wells Jr., said funds should be found for Safety Town either from the county’s fund balance or new property tax revenues.

Safety Town is a safety education program for children, ages 5 to 8, that the sheriff’s office operates.

“It’s really for youth,” Wells said. “It’s needed. I think we need to absolutely fully support the sheriff on this.”

The sheriff’s budget for 2019 is nearly $133 million, an 11.5 percent increase. However, most of that increase is related to jail overcrowding.

While temporary on-site inmate housing would be delayed, the proposed budget still includes funds for out-of-county inmate housing.

The existing jail was built for a capacity of about 1,400 inmates but currently is about 200 inmates over that cap. While that’s a dip in recent weeks, the jail, at times, has had nearly 1,800 inmates.

“It’s a safety issue for deputies,” said Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco. “We’ve seen a spike in fights going on.”

Currently, Seminole County’s jail has about 60 of Pasco’s inmates, at a cost of under $74 a day per inmate.

The sheriff also said 13 new detention officers will be hired and trained during the next nine- to 12-month period.

When money is available for on-site pods, those officers will be ready, he said.

Commissioners also reviewed funding requests for about 40 items from various departments, split into two tiers based on priority.

One package would cost about $4.4 million for expenses such as wage increases for county employees, restoration of library hours, fire rescue stations, and an additional inmate work crew.

The other package of about $1.1 million would pay for new positions in departments, including public services and development services.

There also was a recommendation for $15,000 to the United Way of Pasco County, for an emergency fund to aid low-income residents who aren’t eligible for other programs.

Wells asked that funding for United Way be increased to $50,000. Later on, Pasco County Commissioner Jack Mariano suggested $100,000.

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey asked for details on those expenses.

“I support the United Way. I just want to know where the money is coming from,” she said.

Anticipated property tax revenues might be enough to fund the United Way request, said Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles.

He also noted that county officials are taking a realistic approach to crafting the 2019 budget to withstand potential revenue losses for 2020.

A major concern is a November referendum for an additional $25,000 homestead exemption for homes valued more than $100,000. Most county officials expect it to pass, with a projected revenue loss as high as $14 million, effective for the 2020 budget.

Even so, Biles said county officials looked at the potential revenue losses “and what that would do to the budget so we don’t have to go back on any of these decisions for 2019.”

That includes the priority items for wages, library hours and new job positions, he said.

The county also has other referendums in November that could change spending priorities.

County commissioners recently approved four bond referendums for the November ballot that would bring new revenues for public safety, fire rescue, parks and libraries, if approved.

“If the park referendum doesn’t pass, we have a huge amount of backlog for our parks for safety reasons,” Starkey said. “I don’t want to see parks closing down.”

Published July 4, 2018

Local governments share forum

By

Pasco County has shared interests with city governments, but it’s a rare occasion for county and city officials to meet in a joint public forum.

But, that’s exactly what happened on June 26 when staff members and elected officials from Pasco County, the town of St. Leo, San Antonio, Zephyrhills and Dade City sat down at Saint Leo University to discuss topics of mutual interest, and such meetings could become an annual or semi-annual event.

“We need to do more things together,” Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Wells Jr., said.

Officials from Pasco County, the town of St. Leo, San Antonio, Dade City and Zephyrhills held a joint forum at Saint Leo University to discuss topics of mutual interest. (Kathy Steele)

Most of the talk centered on roads, traffic and redevelopment.

Each of the city and town representatives highlighted accomplishments and issues of concern.

Traffic and road projects topped the list, including one traffic crossroad, known as “calamity corner.”

The intersection is where State Road 52, headed toward St. Leo, takes a turn to the right. But, motorists at that juncture also are navigating along Pompanic Street and College Avenue.

They are guided by signs to stop or yield, and a string of three red caution lights that motorists can find confusing.

“There are a lot of accidents, near accidents, and complaints,” said Eric Stallworth, who serves on the San Antonio City Commission.

Former Pasco County Commissioner Ted Schrader spoke a few months ago at a Pasco County Commission meeting about the intersection and urged county commissioners to find a fix for it.

One idea was for a roundabout.

That appealed to Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey, who said the topic could be brought up at the August Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization.

Discussion also focused on current and ongoing road projects, including widening and realigning State Road 52.

An additional extension of State Road 56 is being sought, too.

Currently, State Road 56 is being extended from Meadow Pointe Boulevard in Wiregrass Ranch to U.S. 301 in Zephyrhills.

Zephyrhills’ officials are seeking additional state funding for a study on linking State Road 56 to State Road 39.

City and county benefit from greater roadway connectivity, said Todd Vande Berg, Zephyrhills’ planning director.

With roads and existing rail lines, Vande Berg said, “We think there’s an opportunity to have an inland port at the (Zephyrhills) Municipal Airport.”

Zephyrhills and Dade City representatives also provided brief views on projects paid with revenues from their Community Redevelopment Areas, or CRAs.

Zephyrhills has used funds for items, including Hercules Park, street lighting and three neighborhood cleanups that removed 900 tons of debris.

“It has made a difference,” said Gail Hamilton, the city’s CRA director.

Future plans include Zephyr Park improvements.

Dade City (which has two CRAs) used its CRA funds, along with Florida Department of Transportation money, to extend Hardy Trail. The trail is envisioned as part of a network of area trails.

The CRA also provides matching grants as incentives to redevelop Dade City’s historic downtown.

The projects brought praise but also criticism of CRAs in general from Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore.

“It’s no secret. I’m not a big huge fan of CRAs,” he said. But, he added, “I do appreciate both cities doing it properly, and not including the entire city in a CRA.”

Moore and other county commissioners have been critical of CRAs in Port Richey and New Port Richey, which are drawn to include all properties within city limits.

State law has since been amended to be more restrictive, with a CRA being no more than 80 percent of a municipality.

CRAs are special taxing districts that generate property taxes for reinvestment in community projects to end blight within those districts. Once a property tax baseline is established, future property tax revenues are available to the CRA. Those revenues, then, aren’t available to the county’s general funds.

Moore said it doesn’t make sense for areas with expensive homes to be in a CRA. “Obviously, we know an entire city isn’t blighted,” he said. “That’s not too kosher.”

He anticipates the Florida legislature eliminating new CRAs after complaints about mismanagement statewide.

Zephyrhills City Manager Steve Spina disagreed.

“I’m not sure they’re going away,” he said.

If they do, Spina said the city would lose the incentives it can now offer to spark redevelopment. “We have a much more vibrant downtown now,” he added, because of the city’s CRA.

It’s the “bad apples” that are misusing CRAs that are the problem, said Starkey.

“I’m OK with it, if we add accountability and transparency,” she said. “I think the language in the (Florida) statute was poorly written.”

Published July 4, 2018

Find your inner artist, and enter contest

By

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art is accepting proposals to help in the creation of a museum mascot based on the horse found in William R. Leigh’s painting called “Tidbits.”

The art can be a painting or a graphic image, which should include the whole horse, in the likeness of the horse named Tidbits.

‘Tidbits’ by William R. Leigh, 1946
(Courtesy of The James Museum)

Entry size should not exceed 18 inches by 18 inches. Acrylic, oil, pastel and oil pastel on paper or board will be accepted. Vector or raster graphic images also will be accepted.

The submission may be a 3/4 look (as in the painting shown); straight-on, as Tidbits looks at the audience; or, a profile that includes a side view with all four legs.

Tidbits should be realistic, life-like and fun. When visitors see the painting in the gallery, they should recognize Tidbits as the museum mascot.

Tidbits has distinct features: four white socks, a white nose, a painted tail, warm eyes with a tint of blue, and an underbelly that is white with brown spots like an Appaloosa.

Tidbits does not talk, and probably needs a blanket and a halter.

The horse’s image will be used in advertising for educational programs, on a sticker, as a soft plush puppet, a stuffed animal and, eventually, will be put in motion on the museum website.

Artists and students from the Tampa Bay area can submit a proposal by mailing or dropping off entries with a $10 entry fee to Marsha Quinn, The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Museum, 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701. The entry fee must be in the form of a check made payable to the James Museum.

The deadline for entries is Aug. 30.

The winner will be announced Sept. 15 and will receive $500.

For questions, contact Marsha Quinn at or (727) 892-4200, ext. 1016.

For more information, visit TampaArts.org.

Published July 4, 2018

Land O’ Lakes transforms into ‘Land O’ Liberty’

By

Members of the Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes hit the ground running last week, spreading out in a quest they call “painting Land O’ Lakes Red, White and Blue.”

Justin Levitt adds a special touch to a tree in the median of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard. (Christine Holtzman)

Of course, they weren’t painting — but they were giving the community a patriotic flair, by tying red, white and blue ribbons and bows to trees in the median along Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, also known as U.S. 41.

They also tied ribbons to fences at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park.

This is the fourth year that the club has taken on the decorating challenge, which aims to create a sense of patriotism while paying tribute to liberty.

Jim Engelmann, president-elect of the Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes, hands out decorative ribbons and bows that will be used to give Land O’ Lakes a patriotic flair.

It’s done each year just before the Fourth of July, in a salute to the nation’s birthday.

Volunteers offered different reasons for taking part in last week’s decorating blitz.

Ayancy Caicedo, of Wesley Chapel, said she’s been in the United States for two years and that helping out was a nice way to show her respect to the nation.

Rotarian Rick Buzzee said the annual effort serves a dual purpose — it brings the community together and raises awareness about the Rotary Club.

Jim Engelmann, president-elect of the Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes, put it this way: “There’s not enough patriotism in the world; let’s do what we can.”

By Christine Holtzman

Published July 4, 2018

Cesar Rabi and his 20-year-old daughter, Maddy, put the final touches on a patriotic ribbon wrapped around tree.
Nine-year-old Nan Peake, a student at Classical Prep, flashes a peace sign, as efforts get underway for the Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes’ salute to liberty.
Rotarian Rick Buzzee adds some bows to a chain-link fence, in another show of patriotism. It’s the fourth year that he’s pitched in on the decorating effort.
Volunteer Ayancy Caicedo studies her bow to make sure it looks just right, while helping to create a patriotic feel in Land O’ Lakes.

 

Enjoy the Fourth of July, but be safe, too

By

The Fourth of July is known for its picnics, parades, fireworks and fun — but it’s also a time when festivities can be marred by accidents and injuries.

To make the most of your Independence Day celebrations, while keeping you and your loved ones safe, keep in mind these safety tips compiled from a variety of news releases and websites.

These tips are from the American College of Emergency Physicians:

Fireworks safety

  • Leave fireworks displays to the professionals. If you do plan to shoot off fireworks, avoid using them near residential areas.
  • Do not handle fireworks if you are drinking alcohol, or are supervising others who may be relying on you if an emergency occurs.
  • Avoid purchasing or using illegal fireworks. Do not attempt to make your own.
  • Read warning labels and follow all instructions. Do not use fireworks in any way other than suggested on the label.
  • Have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher nearby.
  • Light fireworks one at a time.
  • Do not re-ignite a firework that did not function properly.
  • Avoid burns or other accidents by not standing or crouching over a firework you’re attempting to light. After lighting the firework, back up a safe distance away.
  • Do not point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Dress properly. Loose-fitting clothing can be a fire hazard.
  • Do not set off fireworks in a glass or metal container that can create fragments and can cause severe injuries.
  • Dispose of all fireworks properly. Soak them all in water before throwing them away.

General safety tips

  • If you are outdoors, be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid become dehydrated.
  • Apply and reapply sunscreen to protect your skin.
  • Be aware that young children and senior citizens are especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
  • Monitor your alcohol consumption. Too much alcohol can lead to avoidable accidents. Do not drink and drive. It puts you, your friends, your loved ones and strangers at risk. If you’re going to drink, have a designated driver or have someone drive you home.
  • Keep in mind that alcohol accelerates the effects of heat-related illnesses.
  • Refrigerate food that needs to be kept cold. Food poisoning can occur in as little as one hour when temperatures exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Foods that must be kept cold should be placed in a cooler on ice.

Water safety

  • At the pool, lake or beach: Be sure there’s a lifeguard or chaperone keeping an eye on the children.
  • Boaters: Be sure you have a current license, updated safety equipment and life jackets on board. Also, be aware of current boating laws and safety procedures.

Grill safely

Be mindful of the risk of open fires and gas lines. Keep family football games, other recreational activities, children and pets a safe distance away from flames.

Hiking and camping safety

When hiking or camping, be sure to protect yourself with the appropriate gear and insect repellent. If you are planning to hike in a remote location, be sure your family or other loved ones are aware of your departure time and approximate route.

For more safety and health tips, visit EmergencyCareForYou.org.

These tips are from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

Avoiding harmful sun exposure

  • Try to avoid going outdoors between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., because that’s when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Children should avoid direct UV rays as best as possible.
  • No sun at all is best for infants younger than 6 months old. If they are outdoors, be sure to cover them with a hat and cover their neck and extremities. It is best to avoid using sunscreen on babies less than 6 months old.
  • Use sunscreen to prevent sunburns. The sunscreen should be broad spectrum, which is is effective against both UVA and UVB rays, and at least 15 SPF, although there is little evidence that anything above 50 SPF provides additional protective effects.
  • Regularly reapply sunscreen. Water-resistant sunscreen does not mean it should be applied only once. Applications should be made every 2 hours or so, especially if one is sweating, and in and out of the water.

These tips come from AAA

The summer holidays are a popular time for vacations. Stay safe while traveling by following these suggestions:

  • Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained. If maintenance is not up to date, have your car and tires inspected before you take a long drive.
  • Map your route in advance and be prepared for busy roads during the most popular times of the year. If possible, consider leaving earlier or later to avoid heavy traffic.
  • Keep anything of value in the trunk or covered storage area.
  • If you’re traveling with children, remind them not to talk to strangers. Go with them on bathroom breaks and give them whistles to be used only if the family gets separated.
  • Have roadside assistance contact information on hand, in case an incident occurs on the road.
  • Keep a cellphone and charger with you at all times.

Finally, a word from the Florida Highway Patrol and the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles department. Keep yourself and your loved ones safe over the Fourth of July weekend by following these suggestions:

  • Always buckle up. A seatbelt is your vehicle’s most important safety feature.
  • Designate a sober driver and never drive impaired. Remember: even one drink increases the risk of a crash while driving. Do not let anyone who has been drinking get behind the wheel, including you.
  • Check your tires before you take a trip. Properly maintaining and inspecting your tires before a long trip is a key step in keeping your family safe while traveling. It is crucial that motorists educate themselves on the importance of maintaining proper tire pressure, and inspect tire tread and damage on a regular basis in order to avoid potentially fatal tire failure and rollover crashes.
  • Do not drive distracted. Distracted driving is extremely risky behavior that not only puts drivers and passengers in danger, but also pedestrians and bicyclists sharing the road. Focused attention on driving helps to prevent crashes overall.
  • Use caution when traveling through an area where there is smoke, especially at night.
  • Call the FHP at *347 to report drunk drivers, traffic crashes, stranded or disabled motorists, or suspicious incidents on the road.

July 4, 2018