The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Pasco residents to face a higher school tax bill in 2023-2024

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Pasco County homeowners will be paying higher taxes under the school district’s 2023-2024 proposed budget.

The budget includes a 1 mill increase approved by voters to support higher pay for the district’s non-administrative personnel. One mill equals S1 per S1.000 of assessed value.

Kurt Browning, the district’s superintendent detailed some of the $1.9 billion budget’s highlights at the school board’s July 25 meeting.

Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning detailed some of the highlights in the proposed $1.9 billion budget for the district’s 2023-2024 budget year. (File)

It was the board’s first public hearing on the budget, and no public comment was offered.

The second public hearing is set for Sept. 11 at 6 p.m., at the board’s meeting room at district’s headquarters, at 7227 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

The district’s $1.9 billion represents an increase of $178.2 million over last year’s budget. 

The total tax millage proposed for 2023-2024 fiscal year is 6.449 mils, that’s an increase of .933 mills, according to budget materials included in the school board’s July 25 agenda packet.

The district’s general operating budget is approximately $996 million.

The capital budget is $529 million — a reduction of $5.5 million, representing a 1% decrease.

Total tax millage for the 2023-2024 fiscal year is 6.449 mils — that’s an increase of .933 mills.

Under the proposed budget, the homeowner of a $350,000 house — assuming a $25,000 homestead exemption — would pay $2,096 in taxes, which is a $303 increase.

Approximately $53 million is expected to be generated from the voter-approved millage The pay raise generated from the additional millage will be divided among eligible employee groups, according to a summary of the district’s budget. The additional millage is expected to generate $52,672,826, according to district figures.

The budget summary includes this breakdown for distributing the additional funds for salaries:

  • An estimated $28,860,000 will go for instructional personnel pay increases
  • An estimated $10,410,000 will go for school-related personnel increases
  • An estimated $3,730,000 will go for non-instructional non-bargaining pay increases
  • An estimated $880,000 will go for professional-technical employee pay increases

The district’s increased operating expenses include the opening of Angeline Academy of Innovation, a magnet school in the emerging community of Angeline, where Moffitt Cancer Center is planning a sizable Pasco County campus.

Angeline Academy of Innovation ultimately will be for sixth- through 12th-graders, but is opening this year as a school for sixth- through 10th-graders.

The district also transitioned Mittye P. Locke Elementary, in Elfers, to Mittye P. Locke Early Learning Academy. The new center will provide a voluntary prekindergarten program (VPK) for early learners.

The district also will need additional staff to serve increased enrollment, and must spend more on retirement, health care, school resource officer contracts and increased costs for utilities, software licenses, charter school allocations and other needs.

On the capital side of the budget, the district is pursuing a number of projects.

Those include major renovations of West Zephyrhills Elementary School at Starkey Ranch K-8. It also includes construction of Kirkland Ranch K-8, Gulf High School, and the Angeline Athletic complex.

Additional projects include a classroom wing at Pasco High School, a new southwest Land O’ Lakes K-8 school, cafeteria renovations, replacement of HVAC systems, and infrastructure upgrades at various schools.

Pasco Schools Budget
The total budget for all funds for the 2023-2024 fiscal year is $1,984,819,738. This is an increase of $178,207,508 or 9.9%

  • The General Fund operating budget is approximately $996.2 million, a 17.2% increase over 2022-2023
  • The Capital Projects budget is approximately $529.1 million, a decrease of 1% over 2022-2023

Tax bills
Under the school board’s proposed millage rate,  the owner of a $350,000 house, assuming a $25,000 homestead exemption, would pay $2,095.93. That’s a $303.23 increase over 2022-2023.

Voter-approved pay increases
The voter-approved millage increase is expected to yield $52,672,826 to pay supplemental salary increases for Pasco County Schools’ non-administrative employees.

Published August 02, 2023

Add Ichetucknee Springs to your bucket list

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One could spend all day comparing Florida state parks, especially the ones that include springs, and there several in this state.

But why bother? Why not spend that day lazily going down a spring-fed river or paddling up to the swimmable spring head?

One could do just that at Ichetucknee Springs State Park.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park, in Fort White, is a 6-mile, spring-fed lazy river with glistening turquoise waters. It’s a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, with its tubing, swimming, paddle-boarding and all-around relaxing experiences. The waterways, at 72 degrees, are open year-round and take visitors down through shaded hammocks and forests of cypress, maple, oak and pine. (Mike Camunas)

Like many of its fellow sister springs — Weeki Wachee, Rainbow, Rock Springs Run — Ichetucknee is a hidden, turquoise-watered, 72-degrees year-round paradise, and it’s found in the most unlikely of places.

It offers a day’s worth of paddling up its 6 miles, or plenty of time to head down on a tube, similar to the other spring parks mentioned above.

And, like its sister springs, Ichetucknee is definitely Worth The Trip.

Phosphate state
As is true for many sites and natural land formations in Florida, this one involves phosphate.

More than 70 years ago, the land now occupied by Ichetucknee Springs State Park  was owned by the Loncala Phosphate Company. During the 1950s and ’60s, people discovered tubing, which brought college students from Gainesville to the river and springs as a summer ritual.

In 1970, Loncala sold the property to Florida for the protection of the spring-run ecosystem (and also to the tune of $1.85 million).

After it was cleaned and facilities were built, the river and springs were declared a National Natural Landmark in 1972.

The Blue Hole, found just below the head spring of Ichetucknee Springs in Fort White, is the go-to and very popular spot for relaxing and swimming at the top of this 6-mile lazy river.

The park contains hardwood hammock and limestone outcrops. Like many rivers in this part of North Florida, the Ichetucknee is fed by natural springs that boil up from the aquifer.

And, that is some of the most gorgeous water visitors will ever see.

Its blue-green currents will zip tubers and paddlers down the river.

The Ichetucknee Springs River, unlike the Weeki Wachee Springs River, has considerably less or no places to wade around. 

Weeki Wachee, however, recently put an end to visitors beaching, grounding, mooring or anchoring their watercraft on the shores to prevent deterioration.

At Ichetucknee, expect to see plenty of wildlife, from otters and manatees and turtles, and maybe even an alligator or two.

Of course, you’ll also see typical birds, such as herons and ducks.

And, in the water there will be crayfish, bream, bluegill, largemouth bass, mullet, catfish and several types of minnows.

With over 6 miles of this lazy river fed by nine Florida springs, Ichetucknee Springs boasts not just the perfect-speed current and 72-degree water year round, but shaded hammocks and forests of cypress, maple, oak and pine.

Blue by you
Ichetucknee Springs State Park offers tubing, paddle-boarding, kayak, snorkeling and scuba diving, so it’s not reinventing the wheel in terms of adventurous activities.

But it offers different views and landscapes than its fellow parks.

For starters, the river is deeper and stronger than Weeki Wachee and Rainbow River, and its shores are larger and taller.

Also, just below the unreachable spring head at Ichetucknee Springs, there’s the Blue Hole, or swimming area, that can be enjoyed by all. It’s roughly the size of a very large pool, but about as deep as an Olympic-style pool. It’s a popular spot for snorkeling.

Ichetucknee Springs in Fort White is the perfect destination for tubing and exploring on a kayak or paddleboard, and even features a few high shores of bedrock.

Near the swimming hole are picnic tables and the Riverside Grill where lunch and snacks are served. Additionally, there are nearly 2 miles of boardwalks and trails surrounding the woodlands in this area.

Visitors have options, in terms of exploring the nine-springs-fed river.

Everyone checks in at the general store/visitor center, and visitors can put in at Dampier’s Landing, which is just a five-minute walk. Here, boarders can go out and paddle up river, while tubers can do a quick float down to the South Takeout.

Both paddlers and tubers can take a tram to the Midpoint Launch. The North End Launch, which is close to the aforementioned Blue Hole and Riverside Grill, is no longer open due to environmental concerns.

Still, visitors can take a nice float down the river, to the end of the state park.

Always ‘itchy’
In all, Ichetucknee Springs is worth the trip for the same reasons nearly every other springs in Florida is worth the trip: it’s a free-flowing, watery oasis that should be on the must-see list of every weekend warrior, paddle-boarder, influencer and adventure seeker.

It checks every box that one would want out of a day on the fresh water — from its crystal clear water, to its natural surroundings, wildlife and swimming.

And, like many state park destinations, right here in Florida, nothing else quite compares.

Ichetucknee Springs State Park
Where: 12087 Southwest U.S. 27, in Fort White
Details: A 2,241-acre Florida State Park and National Natural Landmark featuring a scenic, 6-mile, nine-springs-fed river. The attraction lets visitors experience the natural beauty of its blue-green waterways year-round. The gentle current of a bright turquoise river guides swimmers, tubers and paddle-boarders through shaded hammocks and forests of cypress, maple, oak and pine. Pets are permitted inside Ichetucknee State Park, however, they are not permitted on or near the water. Fishing and camping are not allowed in the park.
Info: Visit Ichetuckneesprings.com, or call 386-497-1500.

Revised August 04, 2023

Dampier’s Landing is one of four launch points at Ichetucknee Springs in Fort White. This one is perfect for those looking to paddle upstream to the Blue Hole and then to let the lazy river bring them back for a relaxing ride.
Ichetucknee Springs in Fort White also includes several boardwalks and trails that hug the 6-mile river and the surrounding woodlands.
Lunch and snacks are served at the Riverside Grill near the Blue Hole at the top of Ichetucknee Springs.
Several smaller tributaries feed into Ichetucknee Springs, in Fort White, coming from natural springs that boil up from the aquifer below.

Pasco board signals approval for Seven Oaks zoning change

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The Pasco County Commission has indicated that it will approve a zoning change that will allow professional business offices on a site within the Seven Oaks community, as part of a mediated settlement agreement between Pasco County and SB Associates Limited Partnership.

The site is in the Seven Oaks community, on the north side of State Road 56, west of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard.

The Pasco County Commission has indicated it will OK a mediated settlement between the county and SB Associates Limited Partnership, involving a rezoning dispute. The site is expected to be used for business and professional offices. (File)

After the mediated settlement, Seven Oaks residents asked if SB Associates Limited Partnership would agree to limit the uses to those allowed in a Business Professional Office 1 (BPO 1) category, rather than the proposed BPO 2 category.

Jon Tomsu, a resident of Seven Oaks who sits on the community’s CDD board, also asked the applicant to abide by the BPO 1 lot coverage standards, which allows a maximum of 35% lot coverage.

Barbara Wilhite, an attorney representing the applicant, told the Pasco County Commission during its July 11 public hearing on the issue that her client is willing to accept BPO 1 uses, but wants to preserve the BPO 2 lot coverage allowance of up to 50%.

David Goldstein, chief assistant county attorney, told county board members that he read the emails that came in on the issue and did not recall any raising an issue about lot coverage.

He said the emails focused on types of uses allowed.

Chelsea Waller, an attorney representing the Seven Oaks CDD, asked the county board to delay the request to give her an opportunity to confer with her clients.

But Wilhite objected to a delay and commissioners did not grant Waller’s request.

Wilhite also asked the board to close the public comment portion of the hearing and to continue the issue, so she and the county’s legal staff can amend the paperwork to bring back a request for BPO 1 uses, instead of BPO 2.

Commissioners agreed to delay the issue to allow time to change the paperwork before a final vote occurs.

Published August 02, 2023

Public comment sought on proposed Suncoast Parkway expansion

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The Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization is seeking public comment on a proposal to amend the county’s 2045 Long-Range Transportation Plan to include the widening of the Suncoast Parkway, from the Hillsborough County line to State Road 52.

The amendment calls for widening the Suncoast Parkway in Pasco County from four lanes to eight lanes from the Hillsborough County line to State Road 54; and, from four lanes to six lanes, from State Road 54 to State Road 52.

The public has been invited to weigh in on a proposed widening of the Suncoast Parkway. The widening would be between the Hillsborough County line and State Road 52, in Pasco County. The expressway would be widened from four lanes to eight lanes from the Hillsborough County line to State Road 54, in Pasco; and from four lanes to six lanes, from State Road 54 to State Road 52, also in Pasco. (Mike Camunas)

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise (FTE) are seeking the change to the long-range transportation plan (LRTP).

The Mobility 2045 LRTP includes recommended highway, public transportation, bicycle, pedestrian and freight facility improvements that are planned over a 25-year time horizon, according to a posting on the Pasco MPO’s web page, on the Pasco County website.

The plan identifies strategies and improvements aimed at alleviating congestion, improving safety, and promoting increased system efficiency, the posting says.

In addition to physical improvements, strategies include systems management techniques and coordination with land use planning and development activity.

In drafting the adopted Mobility 2045 LRTP, considerations included different modes of transportation to accommodate the movement of people and goods throughout Pasco County and the region, the posting adds.

The notice, posted by the Pasco MPO, alerts the public of an opportunity to provide input on the proposed amendment to plans for the Suncoast Parkway.

The public is entitled to a reasonable opportunity to comment, in accordance with the MPO’s Public Participation Plan and in compliance with federal law and Florida statutes, the posting adds.

The comment period began on July 17 and continues through Aug. 16.

Comments received during the comment period will be recorded by MPO staff and provided to the appropriate parties for review. 

The Pasco County MPO is responsible for countywide transportation planning. Its board members are made up of elected leaders from Pasco County, Dade City, Zephyrhills, New Port Richey and Port Richey.

The Pasco MPO board will consider the requested amendment to the Mobility 2045 LRTP at their regularly scheduled meeting on Aug. 17 at 10 a.m., in the Pasco County Commission’s boardroom, on the first floor of the West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive, in New Port Richey.

The proposed amendment to the Mobility 2045 LRTP is available for public review and comment in the Metropolitan Planning Organization section of the Pasco County Public Notices web page and at the MPO Office at the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey. Persons wishing to obtain additional information, or a copy of the proposed Mobility 2045 LRTP amendment, may call the MPO at 727-847-8140, ext. 8804.

NOTE: Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise is conducting a Project Development and Environment Study to evaluate alternatives for widening Suncoast Parkway/State Road 589 from south of Van Dyke Road to north of State Road 52, approximately 16 miles. The study also is evaluating a potential new interchange north of State Road 54 and improvements to existing interchanges. The study began in the spring and is is anticipated to be completed in summer 2025.

Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise will hold a public information meeting and public hearing for the project, but that has not yet been scheduled. Until the meetings are held, anyone interested in obtaining more
information or commenting on the project can contact the project manager, Anil Sharma, P.E., via email at or via phone at 407-264-3041.

Published August 02, 2023

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

C.R. 54 improvements nearly complete

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Sometimes plans change.

While the project is nearly complete, the finished product of the County Road 54 Phase II will be different than originally planned, Pasco County officials told The Laker/Lutz News.

County Road 54 Phase II in Zephyrhills will consist of a two-lane roadway section east of U.S. 301 and west of 12th Street/Wire Road, with the addition of left and right turn lanes on County Road 54 at the intersection of 12th Street/Wire Road — and a left-turn lane on Wire Road. (Mike Camunas)

Originally, County Road 54 was expected to have a four-lane roadway section, east of U.S. 301 and west of 12th Street/Wire Road. Additionally, it would be a two-lane roadway section between 12th Street/Wire Road and 23rd Street. 

The section and plans, which are adjacent to Zephyrhills High, were per the Pasco County Commission’s approved route study. 

After 60% completion design phase, and during the utility coordination stage, it was discovered there would be substantial right of way costs resulting from impacts to a new Duke Energy transmission easement. Those costs would have occurred in the part of the project where the four-lane roadway section had been proposed, the county added. 

Relocating the Duke Energy facilities would cause significant impacts to the high school.

Design alternatives were provided, and the evaluation of alternatives involved five inter-agency meetings with staff from Pasco County, the City of Zephyrhills and the Pasco County School District. Parties involved agreed to a project redesign.

The current project consists of a two-lane roadway section east of U.S. 301 and west of 12th Street/Wire Road, with the addition of left and right turn lanes on County Road 54 at the intersection of 12th Street/Wire Road — and a left turn lane on Wire Road.

The remainder of the project’s design is unchanged from the original design, according to county officials.

Right and left turn lanes are proposed on County Road 54 at the intersections of 20th Street and 23rd Street, while a new traffic signal is proposed at 23rd Street.

Published August 02, 2023

Healthy substitutions can make for a healthier you

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The standard American diet consists primarily of fried foods, dairy products, packaged foods and sweetened beverages. 

These foods also contain high amounts of refined sugars, sodium and saturated fats. 

The 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee has researched this and reports that this diet can contribute to obesity, heart disease, diabetes and other harmful effects to health.

But choices we make can make a difference.

Here are some ways to make substitutions, which can be made gradually, to achieve long-lasting results and help you along the path to a healthier you:

Limit refined sugar
Carbohydrates, or carbs, are the body’s primary source of fuel. They come in different forms: Fiber, starch and sugar.

And, it’s important to pay attention to the kinds of carbs you consume.

Here are some suggestions to help you make better choices:

  • Choose whole-grain bread over white bread (Whole grain is high in fiber, which is good for gut and digestive health.)
  • Fruits and vegetables are carbs that provide natural sugar and fiber.
  • Cinnamon can add sweetness to dishes, without adding sugar.
  • Instead of sugary drinks, opt for water or unsweetened tea.

Reduce intake of sodium and sugar
Reducing your intake of sodium and sugar can yield significant health benefits. 

Be mindful of the sodium in the foods you eat.

Our sodium intake goes far beyond adding salt to the foods on our plate. Be sure to pay attention to the sodium contained in the packaged and prepared foods we consume.

If you track your meals, pay attention to how much came from a box, can or package. 

Reducing sodium and sugar in your diet can be achieved by cooking most of our foods and incorporating more herbs and spices into the recipe, according to Sharon Solomon, who is a registered dietitian.

By doing that, you can enjoy delicious and flavorful meals — while watching out for your health.

Here are some helpful suggestions:

  • Read food labels.
  • Choose “low sodium” food products.
  • Eat at home more often and prepare your meals yourself.

When possible,  cook in bulk and freeze the extra for easy meals later when you are short on time.

  • Try using a blend of rosemary, thyme and oregano instead of salt to season meat. (As a bonus, herbs and spices have anti-inflammatory properties and contain an array of vitamins and minerals, providing a nutrient boost to your meal.)
  • If adding salt, do so at the end of the cooking process and season to taste. (After seasoning with fresh or dried herbs and spices, you may discover you don’t need salt, or as much salt as you thought.)
One way to reduce the fat in your diet is to add more meatless meals throughout the week, such as black bean burgers. Please see the recipe accompanying this column, so you can prepare some for yourself. (Pixabay.com)

Choose healthy fats
It’s important to keep in mind that while some fats can harm our health, others are essential for a healthy diet.

Just remember: Not all fats are created equal.

The USDA says to choose healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, avocados and salmon. 

These foods are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

Here are some ways to decrease fat, without sacrificing flavor:

  • Make instant oatmeal or chill overnight oats with fresh fruit and nuts instead of having a processed muffin for breakfast.
  • Choose a baked or grilled entree rather than a deep-fried option when eating out.
  • Ask for salsa or hot sauce for additional flavor without the added fat.
  • Swap out red meat for leaner protein sources like chicken or fish. (You can also opt for a vegetarian meal, when planning your weekly meals.)
  • Try using avocado or hummus on your toast, or top it with seeds and herbs.
  • Prepare snacks of fresh fruits and vegetables instead of  processed snacks, like chips or crackers.  

Portion Sizes
Monitoring portion sizes can help ensure we are filling up on nutrient-dense foods rather than overindulging on discretionary calories. 

Here are some tips to consider when getting ready for a meal or snack:

  • When serving food, use smaller plates to help control portion sizes.
  • Have a snack if you are hungry in between meals. (Choose items from at least two different food groups, such an apple and nut butter. Remember: If you starve yourself between meals you are more likely to eat too much at mealtime.)
  • When dining out, order the lunch-size portion or share with a companion.

Additionally, it’s important to have a plan for handling setbacks. 

No one is perfect, and it’s normal to have setbacks from time to time. 

Instead of getting discouraged, use setbacks as an opportunity to gain experience and grow. Reflect on what caused the setback and come up with a plan for how to avoid it in the future. Remember, making small changes over time can lead to significant results. 

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County.

Pasco County Extension Intern Syreeta McDonald, contributed to this column .

Recipe
Black Bean Burgers (Courtesy of MyPlate.gov)

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15.5 oz) low-sodium black beans (drained and rinsed with cold water)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 2 scallions (green and white minced about 1/4 cup)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (or basil leaves or a combination)
  • 1 clove garlic (peeled and minced)
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano or basil
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 whole-wheat buns

Directions

  • Place beans in a bowl and mash with a fork until chunky.
  • Add the egg and mix well.
  • Add the precooked rice, the scallions, garlic and oregano, salt and pepper.
  • Mix until well combined.
  • Divide the mixture into four portions and form each portion into a patty, about 3/4- to 1-inch thick.
  • Place large skillet on the stove on high heat.
  • When the skillet is hot, add oil.
  • Add the black bean burgers and cook 4 minutes to 5 minutes on each side, until both sides are browned and heated through.

Note: You can use old-fashioned rolled oats, leftover cooked barley or Panko breadcrumbs instead of prepared rice. Serve with your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, guacamole, salsa, low-fat cheese or low-fat yogurt.

Published August 02, 2023

Stay safe from the potential dangers of heat waves

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The Florida Division of Emergency Management urges all Florida residents to practice heat safety, as dangerously hot and humid conditions continue statewide.

Heat index values have been climbing into the triple digits, causing much of the state to be under heat advisories and at a greater risk for heat-related illnesses, according to a news release.

Besides being uncomfortable, hot weather and climbing temperatures also pose potential health risks. (File)

The heat index is the “apparent temperature or feels like temperature” that describes the combined effect of high air temperature and high humidity. The higher this combination, the more difficult it is for the body to cool itself. With prolonged exposure to extreme heat, your body is more at risk for experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke, the release said.

Know the signs of heat-related illnesses:

  • Heat Exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating and weakness. Act quickly by moving to a cooler area, loosen clothing and sip cool water slowly. Seek medical attention if symptoms do not improve. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.
  • Heat Stroke signs include confusion, hot and dry skin with no sweat, a rapid strong pulse and loss of consciousness. Call 911 immediately and move the person to a cooler area, loosen clothing and remove extra layers, and cool down with water or ice. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not received.

Heat safety tips:

  • Never leave children, vulnerable adults, or pets in a parked car. The temperature in a parked car can rise to 135 degrees Fahrenheit in less than 10 minutes. If you see a child, vulnerable adult, or pet left unattended in a parked vehicle on a hot day, call 911 immediately. If the person or pet is in imminent danger of suffering harm, use necessary force to remove the person or pet from the vehicle.
  • Limit time outside. Avoid being outdoors during the midday heat and spend more time in air conditioning when possible.
  • Utilize public spaces. Take advantage of public spaces with air conditioning, such as a local library, to help stay cool.
  • Dress for summer. Wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing that reflects heat and sunlight and helps maintain a normal body temperature.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty.
  • Don’t get too much sun. Apply sunscreen if you are going to be in the sun for extended periods of time. Having a sunburn makes heat dissipation more difficult.

For more heat safety tips, visit FloridaDisaster.org/Hazards/Heat-Wave.

Published August 02, 2023

Hillsborough seeks members for diversity council

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The Hillsborough County Commission is seeking applicants for its Diversity Advisory Council.

The board is seeking applicants from these categories: African American (1); Caribbean (1); Far East Asian (1); Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender (2); Indian Asian (1); Middle Eastern (1); Native American (1); and Northern and Southern European (2).

All nominees must reside in and be registered voters in Hillsborough County.  This is a voluntary position, so does not include any compensation.

Those interested in applying must submit:

  • An essay of 200-500 words highlighting what your goals would be as a member of the Diversity Advisory Council and state why you are most suited to carry forth those goals.
  • A completed questionnaire for Diversity Advisory Council
  • A Standards of Conduct Form.  

The board meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.

Forms are available on the County’s website, at HCFLGov.net. To download a form, click on the following tabs/links: “Government”, “Boards and Committees Forms”. The forms can be filled out and printed, then scanned and emailed, faxed, or mailed.

All forms must be signed and dated, and all questions must be answered in entirety to be eligible.

Applicants declining to submit an essay will be eliminated from further consideration for service on the Diversity Advisory Council of Hillsborough County.

Applications are due by the close of business on Aug. 17.

Appointments are scheduled at Hillsborough County board meeting in September or October.

Forms can be mailed to: P. O. Box 1110, Tampa, Florida, 33601; faxed to 813-239-3916; or emailed to

They also can be personally delivered to the second floor of 601 E. Kennedy Blvd., in downtown Tampa.

Published August 02, 2023

Art that speaks their language

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Kendry Abreu Valerio used to be embarrassed to speak his native language.

However, now three years later thanks to art projects through Pasco County Schools’ English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program, he is fluent in English — as well as a budding artist.

“I really learned English through this program and, at the same time, you learn a lot more about art and artists,” he said. “It feels a lot better now that I know I can speak English.”

Cox Elementary student Jazmyn Martinez Macayo, 8, smiles in front of her artwork poster board during the Dade City & Zephyrhills Young Artists Exhibit, at the Dade City Armory on July 18. About a dozen artists, all of whom were part of Pasco County Schools’ summer English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) program, researched artists and created artworks — in a project aimed at helping them to hone their English language skills. (Mike Camunas)

His work was among about a dozen young artists on display at the first-ever Dade City & Zephyrhills Young Artists Exhibit, at the Dade City Armory on July 18.

He’s also one of many ESOL students who have learned English through hard work and creative, beyond-the-textbook art projects.

Students were told to research artists that inspired them, then create their own art. They had to present their art as if it was featured in an exhibit.

“It taps into the student’s creativity, for starters,” ESOL Curriculum Specialist Magda Mckenzie said. “It also makes kids feel comfortable, so they don’t feel embarrassed when speaking the English language. … So, we started working on developing oral English skills, and as we were focusing on specific artists, they read and studied a lot of biographies.

“Then they would have to tell us about their art.”

Pasco Middle student Mónica Hernández, 12, smiles as she shows off her artistic piece at the Dade City Armory on July 18 during the Dade City & Zephyrhills Young Artists Exhibit.

As a longtime Dade City resident, Mckenzie was inspired when she was driving downtown and saw that the Dade City Center for the Arts (DCCA) was hosting its Art Walk.

She thought: Why not have an exhibit for the students and their art?

Mckenzie approached DCCA with the idea, and the nonprofit’s vice president, Lucy Avila, and the center agreed to host the exhibit.

“A lot of times, when you’re trying to learn a second language, you’re doing two things at once: you’re learning content and, at the same time, they’re learning the language — that’s a tough thing to do, so I think this gives them an avenue to them be more successful,” Mckenzie said.

“Teachers love (the presentations), too, because the parents are involved, and when the parents see the progress, that definitely means a lot to the teachers.”

The student artworks represented nine different Latin American countries.

The exhibit was part of the ESOL summer session.

Dozens of people attended the Dade City & Zephyrhills Young Artists Exhibit, at the Dade City Armory on July 18.

For 3 ½ hour days, four days a week for five weeks, the students worked on their research, their artwork and their presentations.

“Every week they had to practice on how to talk to anyone, face-to-face, on their art, and what and who inspired them,” Mckenzie said. 

“And be able to do all of that in English.”

Students were from East Pasco elementary, middle and high schools, and were excited to show off their art and new communication skills at the exhibit.

Abreu Valerio, who said his artwork was inspired by Picasso, says he is now as confident as his fellow incoming Zephyrhills High freshmen — the ones whose first language is English.

“Having to present today really helped because you then hear English more and more and more,” he said. “It feels better because, sometimes, if you don’t know English, some people even make fun of you — so it feels really good that I know it so much better now.”

Isabella Lopez Flores, an 11-year-old Pinecrest Elementary student, said she was inspired by artists such as Frida Kahlo and Oscar Olivares, the latter being Venezuelan, such as herself.

She said the art project taught her English, and more.

About a dozen or so young English for Speakers of Other Languages students displayed their program artwork during an exhibit on July 18.

“It teaches you about a lot of places and things, but also a lot about art and artists,” she said. “I learned more about the countries and the world and more English. It wasn’t harder; it was more helpful — much more than reading a book, especially for me.

“When I didn’t know that much English, I would talk to my friends and they would help me learn more English, but would also help me through Spanish when I would need to talk to the teacher,” she said.

“It was all very helpful, but now I’m confident speaking to anyone in English.”

Dade City Center for the Arts
Details: The Dade City Center for the Arts brings the arts to the city and community by providing opportunities for artists to showcase their talents. The group uses community outreach and collaborates with Pasco-Hernando State College, Saint Leo University and area businesses. The organization is devoted to enhancing the Dade City environment through the arts and art events, including the Dade City Hale Bale Painting Project, the Kumquat Window Decorating Contest and the Dade City Art Walk.
Info: Visit DadeCityArts.com.

Published July 26, 2023