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Florida House of Representatives

Tampa prepares for Super Bowl

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For Will Weatherford, co-chairman of Tampa Bay’s Super Bowl LV Host Committee, this has been familiar territory.

With the NFL’s big game headed to Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 7, it seems like Weatherford has spent a lifetime preparing for this moment.

Will Weatherford is co-chairman of Tampa Bay’s Super Bowl LV Host Committee. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will become the first team in NFL history to play the Super Bowl at its home stadium, when the Bucs take on the Kansas City Chiefs. (Courtesy of Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee)

After all, he’s primarily a football guy.

The effort has required an intricate game plan — with plenty of adjustments. Preparation has been paramount. It has demanded toughness, resilience and loyalty. In the end, a winning formula will be assured by teamwork.

“We have a gritty culture in our area,’’ Weatherford said. “We have faced lots and lots of challenges. But, we are very excited that our area will stage the best possible Super Bowl, a historic Super Bowl, and it’s going to provide a real lift for our entire nation.’’

Weatherford, 41, is part of a luminous Pasco County family, one with six football-playing brothers, all who competed at Land O’Lakes High School before heading off to various levels of college football.

Weatherford, a linebacker, played at Jacksonville University. He entered politics as a Republican member of the Florida House of Representatives from 2006-2014, serving as House Speaker during his final term. He then founded Weatherford Capital, a private equity firm, with his brothers, Sam and Drew.

“But, my heart for public service didn’t go away,’’ Weatherford said. “I always tried to find ways to serve. What way can you have a bigger impact on the community than showcasing your city during the Super Bowl? I have watched what past Super Bowls have done for our community and now I am thrilled to be part of this process.’’

Weatherford was recruited to the position by Rob Higgins, the Host Committee president/CEO who also is executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission. Weatherford’s fellow co-chairman is Pro Football Hall of Famer and legendary former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Derrick Brooks.

“I was a linebacker in high school and college, and Derrick was my hero,’’ Weatherford said. “I was in middle school, he was at Florida State and he was my hero, and that continued to the NFL. To co-chair something significant with a childhood hero, I don’t have the words to describe what that means.

“Yes, he’s a Hall of Famer, but he’s a better person. The legacy he’s leaving in this community goes way beyond football. He’s always on point. His actions is where his leadership comes from. He leads a life of excellence in all things.’’

Brooks returned the compliment.

“We are very fortunate to be working with Will on this Super Bowl,’’ Brooks said. “He brings so much to the table. He’s so knowledgeable and he’s great at building relationships. Being part of this with him has really been a great experience.’’

The experience, of course, has been much different than what Weatherford and Brooks could have anticipated.

It’s the Pandemic Super Bowl.

COVID-19 has changed almost everything — from the lead-up activities to the events (some will disappear, some will go virtual) to the game itself (only a small percentage of fans is expected inside the stadium).

But, for television viewers in 180 countries, it’s still the Super Bowl. It’s still Tampa Bay’s vistas and attractions being front and center for an event that has become an unofficial American holiday.

The virus will severely limit the economic impact and hotel occupancy. But, the area will receive a huge boost from the $2 million “Forever 55’’ social legacy initiative ($1 million in corporate donations was matched by the NFL). It focused on local programs to aid the stated pillars of early childhood education, food insecurity, families, health and wellness, sustainability and systemic justice.

“Florida has been hit exceedingly hard by the virus and economic factors, but we’ve always found a way to rise up,’’ Weatherford said. “I don’t think this will be any different. Hopefully, people will visit us and see how much the Tampa Bay area has changed since our last Super Bowl.

“None of this happens without businesses and the community and the public sector getting on board. We’ve had five Super Bowls, absolutely amazing (only Miami, New Orleans and Los Angeles have had more). The NFL knows when they come to Tampa Bay that we’re going to give it our all and put on a great show. Of course, there have been challenges. But, I’m confident that when it’s all done, we’re going to look back and be very proud of what our community has done. I’m so happy to be part of it.’’

Super Bowl Experience Presented by Lowe’s
NFL’s interactive football theme park will return to Tampa for Super Bowl LV from Jan. 29 through Jan. 31, and from Feb. 2 through Feb. 6, along the Tampa Riverwalk.

The Super Bowl Experience will offer fans the opportunity to virtually meet-and-greet with current NFL players and Legends, participate in games, and shop merchandise from the NFL Shop presented by Visa.

The Experience also will feature photos with the Vince Lombardi Trophy, a 40-yard dash and vertical jump against NFL players on LED screens, and a Super Bowl rings display showcasing all 54 Super Bowl rings.

Fans can attend the Super Bowl Experience Presented by Lowe’s free, every day.

To attend, fans must register for the NFL OnePass app and book a session time. Fans also should bring their favorite face covering and prepare to maintain at least 6 feet of physical distance from others.

To reserve your session time, download the NFL OnePass app at NFL.com/OnePass. If the session date/time that you are looking for is not available, there will be a standby queue available for walk-up fans at Julian B. Lane, but fans will still need OnePass to access.

There is limited capacity to the Super Bowl Experience, so entry is not guaranteed.

For fans without a smartphone, Technology Managers will be at the exterior of Julian B. Lane to assist.

Hours of Operation:
​Jan. 29: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Jan. 30: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Jan. 31: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Feb. 3: 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Feb. 4: 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Feb. 5: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Feb. 6: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Additional information about health guidance and prohibited security items can be found at NFL.com.
Source: nfl.com

‘No Drone Zone’ during Super Bowl LV
Raymond James Stadium in Tampa is a “No Drone Zone” for Super Bowl LV on Feb. 7, and drones also are prohibited around the Tampa Riverwalk for the NFL Super Bowl Experience during the days leading up to the event.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced it will establish a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) on game day that will prohibit drones within a 30-nautical-mile radius of the stadium up to 18,000 feet in altitude. The TFR will be in place from 5:30 p.m. to 11:59 p.m., EST.

Drones also are prohibited for 1 nautical mile around Raymond James Stadium on Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. until the TFR for the game takes effect.

The FAA will restrict drone flights for roughly 2 nautical miles around Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park and Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park up to an altitude of 2,000 feet from Jan. 29 to Feb. 6, during event hours.

Pilots and drone operators who enter the TFRs without permission could face civil penalties that exceed $30,000 and potential criminal prosecution for flying drones in the TFR.

Detailed information for general aviation and drone pilots is available on the FAA’s Super Bowl LV web page.

Drone pilots should check the FAA’s B4UFly app to determine when and where they may fly.

By Joey Johnston

Published January 27, 2021

Political Agenda 10/07/2020

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Republican women’s group endorses Trump
The Florida Federation of Republican Women has announced its support for the reelection of President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence in the 2020 Presidential Election. The women’s political group also endorsed that ticket during the 2016 presidential election, according to a news release from the organization.

Randy Maggard endorsements
Randy Maggard is running for reelection in District 38 of the Florida House of Representatives. His campaign has announced the following endorsements:

  • The West Central Florida Chapter of the Florida Police Benevolent Association
  • Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning
  • Richard Corcoran, former speaker of the Florida House and current state education commissioner

East Pasco Democrat Club
The East Pasco Democratic Club will meet remotely, via Zoom, at Oct. 19, at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will feature supporting the Democratic candidates locally and nationally. All members and friends of the Democratic Party are invited to attend. Email , or call (813) 383-8315 for details. Socializing begins at 6 p.m., followed by the meeting.

Democrat Club meeting set
The Central Pasco Democratic Club will meet Oct. 21 at 6:45 p.m., remotely on Zoom. The meeting will feature supporting the Democratic candidates locally and nationally. All members and friends of the Democratic Party are invited to attend. Email , or call (813) 383-8315 for details. Socializing begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the meeting.

Kathy Lewis endorsements
Kathy Lewis is running for the District 20 seat in the State Senate. She has received these endorsements, according to her campaign:

  • Tracey Kagan, Democratic candidate for the Florida House
  • Florida State Sen. Victor “Vic” M. Torres, Jr.

Polling place changes in Pasco
Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley announced the following polling place changes for precincts 15 and 55, for the 2020 General Election.

New locations
• Precinct 15: Cornerstone Community Church, 5708 Trouble Creek Road, New Port Richey, 34652
• Precinct 55: Zephyr Shores Estates POA Clubhouse, 35143 State Road 54 W., Zephyrhills, Florida 33541

Former locations
• Precinct 15: Ashbury United Methodist Church, 4204 Thys Road, New Port Richey
• Precinct 55: Crystal Lakes Clubhouse, Zephyrhills, Florida 33541

Sample ballots
Pasco County will mail sample ballots to voters on Oct. 9. Voters who have requested vote-by-mail do not receive sample ballots.

Some vote-by-mail reminders
The Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections’ Office provides these Vote By Mail reminders, on its website:

  • Don’t forget to sign your Vote By Mail envelope before returning it.
  • Make sure you have a current signature on file with your Supervisor of Elections Office. You can update your signature by completing a printed or online voter registration application. (An online application will add your most recent Florida Driver License or Florida State ID signature to your voter record.)
  • Be consistent when signing your mail ballot return envelope. Signatures are compared to those on file with the elections office.
  • You may mail your ballot back or drop it off at your local elections offices or Early Voting sites (during Early Voting).
  • Check with your local elections office for more information on drop-off locations.
  • If you mail the ballot back, make sure to allow plenty of time for it to be received. It’s a good idea that you allow at least a week for your mailed ballot to reach your elections office. If your ballot isn’t in your county’s elections office by 7 p.m., Election Day, it will not be counted.

Lawmaker talks state budget cuts, COVID-19

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State Rep. Randy Maggard made a special appearance at a Zephyrhills City Council meeting last month — updating constituents on issues that included state budget cuts, the COVID-19 pandemic, return-to-school plans and more.

During his talk, Maggard, who represents District 38 in the Florida House of Representatives, bluntly said East Pasco was fortunate to secure state funding for two projects.

Randy Maggard represents District 38 in the State House of Representatives. He spoke on a number of issues, during a special appearance last month at a Zephyrhills City Council meeting. (Courtesy of Florida House of Representatives)

Those projects survived, while other projects fell by the wayside as a result of $1 billion in budget cuts, achieved through line-item vetoes by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

The governor made those cuts because state revenues were lower than expected, due to the economic impacts of COVID-19.

The approved $92.2 billion budget, however, does include about $5.5 million for the Lacoochee industrial area right of way improvements and about $2.3 million for intersection improvements at U.S. 301/Pretty Pond and Medical Arts Court.

“We’re just happy to get what we did,” Maggard said. “At the end of the day, we felt we fared well compared to most (other districts).”

Other budget wins in Maggard’s book included the $500 million to increase teacher salaries across the state and the approval of the most comprehensive water bill in Florida history. That water bill includes: $322 million for Everglades Restoration; $50 million for springs restoration; $160 million for targeted water quality improvements; $40 million for alternative water supply; and, $25 million to combat harmful algal blooms and red tide.

Maggard said he hopes the state doesn’t need to undergo yet another round of budget cuts due to COVID-19, hurricane season or some other setback. Luckily, state reserves could help withstand some expected shortfalls, he said.

Maggard said the Legislature’s foresight to build up a reserve in the past has come in handy now.

He added: “What we’re praying is that we don’t have a bad hurricane season. Just having another knockout punch would not be good for our economy, and that’s what we’re concerned about, at the time.”

On the COVID-19 front, Maggard acknowledged the pandemic “just seems to be dragging on,” but noted a sliver of a silver lining.

The positivity rates for COVID-19 through Florida have hovered in the 10% range to 12% range, while experiencing marked decreases is some instances.

Maggard said Florida made headlines across the country when it recorded nearly 15,300 new coronavirus cases on July 12. That set a national record for any one-day period.

What media outlets failed to mention, Maggard said, is about 142,900 people were tested — representing a positivity rate of about 10.7%.

A few days before that, the state had reported 11,343 positive COVID-19 cases among 93,500 tests — correlating with a higher positivity rate of 12.1%, he said.

“It was a big number that dropped, but we’re testing more,” Maggard said, regarding the July 12 report.

“If you look at just the pure numbers, you would think, ‘Wow, this thing is spreading worse, and we’re in trouble,’” he said.

But, when “you look at it percentage-wise,” he said, “it’s not growing like the numbers sometimes show.”

And, that, he said, represents “a little bit of good news.”

The freshman lawmaker added the “largest spread” of the coronavirus comes from Florida bars and small breweries, so temporarily closing down those institutions was “just something that had to be done,” he said.

He also acknowledged the economic impact the decision had.

“It is affecting small business, and we understand that,” he said.

Maggard also emphasized  the importance of mask wearing and social distancing: “If you talk to your doctor, they will tell you. If we can just keep that practice, we can get over this hurdle, we really can just get it to stop. I think we can get out of this mess, and then we just need to pray for a shot like we do for the flu, then I’ll think a lot of this will just go away.”

On the much-debated topic of return-to-school plans, Maggard assured state leaders are studying “the smartest way” to handle an ever-changing situation, adding decisions are “based on science and numbers, and not emotion.”

However, he added there’s been “overwhelming” support to reopen brick-and-mortar school campuses for the 2020-2021 school year, particularly among Florida high schoolers.

“It’s funny, the majority of high school students we’ve reached out to are like, ‘Yeah, we want to go back to school,’” Maggard said. “Maybe staying at home with parents is not as fun as it used to be at the time; high school students are definitely for it.”

He also addressed one of the more well-documented issues that surfaced early in the wake of COVID-19: the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity’s difficulty in managing the massive volume of unemployment benefit claims.

Many of those problems have been resolved, Maggard said.

“There’s some people out there we’re still dealing with, but overall that number’s dropping, which has been good for us,” he said.

Published August 05, 2020

Coronavirus could ‘decimate’ state appropriations

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The recently passed $93 billon Florida state budget included some big wins for East Pasco, but District 38 state Rep. Randy Maggard isn’t ready to celebrate or take a victory lap just yet.

That’s because the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic will force state lawmakers back to Tallahassee for a special session sometime this summer — and likely result in major spending cuts for budgeted programs and projects due to a shortfall in sales tax revenues.

“This virus, it’s just going to decimate our budget,” Maggard said, during an East Pasco Networking Group virtual conference meeting on April 13.

Randy Maggard represents District 38 in the State House of Representatives (Courtesy of Florida House of Representatives)

The Dade City Republican helped secure a total of $16.6 million in appropriations to be used in projects by Zephyrhills, Lacoochee, Pasco County and Saint Leo University. These projects include intersection improvements, establishing a new robotics program, and septic to sewage for a fast-growing part of our county.

But, the freshman lawmaker admitted he isn’t sure which, if any, of those projects could be on the chopping block a few months from now.

“The problem we’re in, we all don’t know what’s going to change on us,” Maggard said. “All the good things we accomplished may not last, so that’s what we are dealing with at the moment and just watching, because It’s unchartered waters for all of us.”

Aside from budgetary impacts, Maggard outlined other issues that have or could become the result of COVID-19.

One of the more well-documented issues surfaced is the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) having trouble managing the massive volume of people filing for unemployment benefit claims.

Maggard mostly defended the DEO — pointing out the system was never designed or could’ve anticipated such unemployment levels in a state with historically low unemployment.

The lawmaker explained the DEO would typically file more than 10,000 unemployment claims in a month. Now, the department is getting as many or more in a single day.

“I think you’ve gotta put it in perspective a little bit,” Maggard said. “Nobody expected this to happen and where it’s going. Nobody expected it in our unemployment part and in our small businesses and our restaurant businesses. I just feel so bad for them, because it’s devastating…so we’re working tirelessly to try to do the right things to get us through this as quick as possible.”

He added “99% of what I do daily now is trying to help people get unemployment claims and fight it through the system.”

Maggard touched on some other unintended consequences resulting from COVID-19.

He explained statewide stay-at-home orders have led to a rise in domestic violence, and strains on waste management, while consumer stockpiling has exposed a truck driver shortage and product supply chains.

Maggard also raised concerns of the risk of utility and electric companies being overwhelmed as “everybody’s staying home under A/C, 24/7…and we haven’t even hit the summer hot time yet.

“This virus has really compounded a lot of problems and shows us a lot of weaknesses and some of the things we thought we had set up and were foolproof,” he said, “but, the good thing is we’re learning from it, we’re going to get through it…and there’s a light at the end of the end of the tunnel.”

Maggard reflects on first year in office
Voters selected Maggard in a special election last June to become their next representative in District 38 of the Florida House of Representatives — filling the vacancy created by former Rep. Danny Burgess, who accepted an offer from Gov. Ron DeSantis to become the executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Participating in his first 60-day regular legislative session “was absolutely one of the biggest honors of my life,” Maggard said, adding, “to be able to walk out on that chamber floor and realize you’re one of 2,700 people that ever stepped there, it gives you chills.”

Maggard spent 30 years as vice president of Sonny’s Discount Appliances in Dade City. He is a Pasco County native, attended Zephyrhills High School and holds an Associate of Arts degree from Pasco-Hernando Community College (now known as Pasco-Hernando State College).

He underscored the significance of his new role.

“Every time we press a button, we affect 21 million people’s lives,” Maggard said, “and I take that very seriously.”

With that, stopping a bill is oftentimes more important than passing a bill, Maggard said, “because every time something is passed, something is taken away, there’s some kind of freedom affected.”

“I quickly learned that my job up there was to stop things — bad policies — more than it was trying to make good policy, so I did a lot of arguing, debating over that,” he said.

For Maggard, the job overall has been “like drinking from a fire hose”  — in terms of the volume of tasks and issues that come across his desk regularly.

“When you’re running for office, you can’t really get prepared for all the amount of information that you need to use, and the people you need to see, and the work you have to do to be able to vote the right way for your citizens in Pasco,” he said.

Meanwhile, Maggard commended fellow state lawmakers for working together and across the aisle, as both the House and Senate unanimously approved the $93 billion state budget in March.

He highlighted the procurement of $690 million for water protection and restoration of the Everglades; $1.7 billion dollars for hurricane response; and, $17 billion for PreK-12 education funding, including $500 million for teachers pay raises, among others.

“The Republicans and Dems, we do have some differences,” he said, “but, we can sit down and have a breakfast, both sides, and talk and work something out, and I think that’s what good government’s supposed to be.

“We were called not to be politicians, but to be statesmen. I’m arguing for East Pasco, but somewhere in the middle there, we’ve gotta do what’s best for 21 million people.”

Published April 22, 2020

Pandemic keeps students home from school

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Florida’s elementary and secondary campuses will not reopen this school year, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on April 18.

Instead, students and teachers will continue with the distance learning model, which began in March. That approach began as a way to limit the potential spread of coronavirus disease-2019. (COVID-19).

The national death toll for the pandemic reached 37,202 as of April 20, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The economic meltdown has resulted in the loss of more than 22 million American jobs, according to national reports.

In explaining why he decided to close school campuses, DeSantis said “We spoke with a lot of folks throughout the state.

“There was some differing opinions. Some parents were not interested in their kids going back. Some others — it’s been tough around the house, they would have liked to have seen them go back,” the governor said, during a news conference that was carried live on WTSP 10 News.

“We’ve got pretty good momentum for distance learning. It’s obviously not the ideal situation, but given where we are in the school year, we felt that was the best decision to go forward,” he said.

DeSantis said he asked if there would be a huge academic benefit of reopening schools, but most people didn’t think so.

“I think the last thing you want to do is force everyone in school and have half the kids not show up, because the parents didn’t want (it) — their teachers didn’t want to do it.

“It was an easier decision for me to make, knowing that we’ve done so well with the distance learning,” DeSantis said.

In a YouTube video posted on the Pasco County Schools’ website, Superintendent Kurt Browning said the district’s campuses will remain closed, but that distance learning will continue through May 27.

Browning said he agreed with DeSantis regarding the closure of campuses.

“Due to the potential health and safety risks, I could not in good conscience direct our students, teachers and staff to return in this environment,” the superintendent said.

In regards to distance learning, Browning said: “Most of our teachers and students have made tremendous progress. They have acclimated to our new normal with creativity and energy.”

He acknowledged that the district continues “to work with a very small number of students who have not yet engaged.”

Browning added that “student feeding days will continue on Tuesdays.”

The numbers are increasing each week, but the district’s food and nutrition staff, and army of volunteers are getting the job done, Browning said.

He also touched on the topics of graduations and proms.

“These are once in a lifetime experiences, and we know how important they are. We remain hopeful, and at the same time, we are weighing our options.

“We still have several weeks to make sure that our seniors have a graduation that is memorable and meaningful,” Browning said.

He added: “We know many students and teachers have a need to retrieve their belongings form school. When we left for Spring Break more than a month ago, I’m sure there were many personal belongings left in lockers and desks and cabinets. We know it’s important that you have an opportunity to retrieve your things, but it must be done safely.

“Your school will inform you about their specific plan, soon,” Browning said.

Hillsborough County public schools announced the extended closure on its website, and noted its eLearning will continue through May 29.

“We know you have many questions about your student’s grades, as well as activities and events planned during the fourth quarter. We will be providing you additional details in the coming days, including information regarding graduation ceremonies,” according to the website.

The district also announced that all May graduations will be canceled, but that it has worked with the Florida State Fairgrounds to secure alternate dates in July.

“We know this is heartbreaking for students. Especially our seniors. All extracurricular activities will be canceled during this timeframe. But, we have worked with select seniors, school-based leaders and district staff to develop multiple options for school graduations.”

In addition to announcing the campus closures, DeSantis also announced that a task force will begin work this week to “develop a three-stage approach to reopening the state: short-term, medium-term and long-term.”

The task force will meet telephonically and is expected to have its recommendations for short-term steps to DeSantis by April 24.

“Then, once we get that in place, they’re going to look to the medium- and long-term strategies,” the governor said, noting the task force will include small business owners, industry representatives and elected officials, including Wilton Simpson, incoming president of the Florida Senate, and Chris Sprowls, incoming speaker of the Florida House of Representatives.

DeSantis also gave updates on Florida’s testing efforts, and announced that the state would begin publicly reporting the names of nursing homes and long-term care facilities that have reported cases of COVID-19.

Published April 22, 2020

World War II vet celebrates 100th birthday

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VFW Post 8154, in Zephyrhills, was packed with people to celebrate Edward Bruno’s 100th birthday on Oct. 12.

“I think he will be absolutely stunned to see how many people have come out today to honor him and celebrate his birthday,” said Suzanne Ahmad, his niece.

And, so he was.

Edward Bruno, of Zephyrhills, donned a golden crown as he celebrated his 100th birthday on Oct. 12, with family and friends. (Brian Fernandes)

“It’s a surprise to me,” said Bruno, a decorated U.S. Marine Corps veteran, during an event that attracted relatives, devoted friends and dignitaries.

He sat at a long table, in a chair festooned with balloons, donning a birthday crown emblazoned with the number 100.

Like many of his fellow VFW members in the room, he also wore a signature red polo shirt.

Friends and relatives swarmed him, giving him hugs and handshakes, and taking photos of him.

VFW dignitaries took to the stage, offering their birthday wishes, as Bruno relaxed, taking occasional sips of his wine.

Fellow Marine veteran Glenn Shaw, who lives in Zephyrhills, welcomed the crowd.

His eyes welled with tears as he spoke about his friendship with Bruno.

“I go to his house at least once a week. If nobody makes his bed, I make his bed for him. [I] do little things around the house for him. He’s a good man. He’s my buddy,” Shaw said.

State Rep. Randy Maggard was there, too, to help celebrate the day.

“This is a special event and a special time. Truly he has epitomized the spirit of those we call the greatest generation,” said Maggard, who represents District 38 in the Florida House of Representatives.

Bruno’s extended family sat near him during the celebration, including nieces, a younger sister, a grandson and a daughter-in-law.

They celebrated Bruno’s 100 years of life, which began when he was born in Buffalo, New York, in 1919.

He grew up there, in a family of 13 children.

He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1942, at the height of World War II.

The same year, he fought in the Battle of Guadalcanal, and earned a Bronze Medal.

As his military career progressed, he served as a drill sergeant and was stationed in Guadalcanal, New Guinea, Georgia and Cape Gloucester.

“I think he’s always been very proud of his service, his devotion to his family and country,” Ahmad said.

Longevity is a family trait, she added.

However, while enjoying a lengthy life, Bruno has outlived his wife, Barbara, and his only son, Bobby.

There have been challenges, too.

He had to be fitted with a prosthetic leg, after an accident in a factory.

But, he always has made the best of his situations, Ahmad said.

And, his example has been a life lesson for her, she added.

Bruno’s two other nieces, Paulette Kline and Louise Cantwell, also were at the party, reminiscing fondly about their uncle.

“We would have a lot of happy memories of being in his home,” Kline said, “and [he was] always a very gracious host and very loving.”

She said her uncle helped her to develop a sense of gratitude.

Cantwell recalled that at family gatherings, Bruno and her other uncles would talk about growing up during the Great Depression.

She said it reinforced the importance of being there for one another.

“The solidarity is what we get from it. The family solidarity – to be together when we can and help each other when we can,” Cantwell said.

She also noted his upbeat attitude.

“He’s always got a positive outlook,” Cantwell said. “He just kept on being the same happy person.”

Plus, she mentioned, Bruno has been quite a “chick magnet,” and that’s still true today.

“At 100 years old, he can still get the women to come give him attention,” she said, laughing.

The nieces also agreed that their uncle also has an excellent sense of humor.

Besides offering kind words of congratulations, VFW members also gave Bruno gifts to mark the occasion.

They gave him a framed plaque, a case holding a certificate for his service and a Tervis tumbler cup engraved with his name.

But, Bruno wasn’t the only one celebrating a birthday that day.

Jack Henry Dias was celebrating, too. He shares Bruno’s birthday, and he was turning age 1.

Bruno held little Dias in his lap, while people took photos.

The pictures kept coming, as Bruno was helped outdoors by his grandson, Eric, before partaking in a special meal.

There, Bruno posed with his family and caregivers in front of a big military truck.

They were creating yet another memento, to celebrate Bruno’s century’s worth of life experiences.

Published October 23, 2019

Local teen’s rare disease sparks legislation

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After more than three years of fighting for their medical coverage for their son’s rare disease, a Land O’ Lakes family has seen some progress in their quest.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Patient Saving Act on June 12, which includes language requiring the state insurance plan to provide enteral formula coverage, regardless of age, condition or intake method.

Stephanie Walls, whose son Remington suffers from Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), called the legislative victory “absolutely amazing.”

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Patient Saving Act in June. Included is language requiring the state insurance plan to provide enteral formula coverage, regardless of age, condition or intake method. Stephanie and Remington Walls stand on the far right. (Courtesy of Stephanie Walls)

The rare EoE disease, which is incurable, causes food to deteriorate in his esophagus.

Remington, who was diagnosed at age 4, has lived a life without regular food or drink.

His only source of nutrition since then has come via a hypoallergenic amino acid-based liquid formula, called Neocate EO28 Splash. He consumes roughly 18 to 22 of the eight-ounce juice boxes per day.

Through it all, 19-year-old Remington has never let his life-threatening food allergy disease block him from pursuing his goals.

He is a former varsity baseball standout at Land O’ Lakes High School.

He’s a published author, and he has earned a volunteer assistant/team manager position at Valdosta State University’s Division I baseball program.

In 2016, his family learned that its insurance no longer covered the liquid formula required for sustenance. Without the insurance, the formula costs about $26,000 per year, Stephanie said.

The alternative was a feeding tube. But, with Remington’s active lifestyle, that was never an option, the family says.

So, Remington and his mom have been pushing for state and federal legislation for enteral formula coverage for medical nutrition — sharing their story with lawmakers and anyone who would listen.

The new law only impacts state employees, but still it is a move in the right direction and will help families like theirs who are struggling, Stephanie says.

“This is just a baby step, to the bigger steps that are going to be taken,” added Stephanie, an eighth grade language arts teacher at Cypress Creek Middle High School in Wesley Chapel.

“We’re still trying to get federal legislation,” she said. “It has to be broader. It has to have a wider span.”

Remington agrees with his mom: “Our goal is to get federal legislation passed, but it’s just a work in progress. We just take it one day, one step at a time.”

He added, “Honestly, our whole goal going into this was, whether it benefits us or not, we want to make a difference. We just knew that if this is happening to us, then it’s happening to other families.”

Getting help and helping others
At the state level, the Walls’ cause was picked during the legislative process by Sen. Kelli Stargel, a Republican from Lakeland, and Rep. Ardian Zika, a Republican from Land O’ Lakes. They sponsored enteral formula legislation, which ultimately led to an amendment to the state health bill.

As it stands now, “it only covers state employees,” Zika said. “My goal is I hope to see federal legislation addressing this issue .. .so we have comprehensive coverage for such a condition.”

He went on, “For me, this was an opportunity to be a voice for the voiceless. When I reflect back on my public service, this is going to be one of the highlights for me.”

Zika learned of Walls’ story before his election in 2018 to represent District 37 in the Florida House of Representatives.

“It was really heartbreaking,” Zika said. “I said, ‘Wow, this is something that I would be very passionate about because it’s life-changing for individuals.’”

The freshman lawmaker added, “Remington has overcome so much adversity. No one should go through what they’ve (the Walls) gone through. I’m just happy to be at the intersection in their life and do my part, but there’s much more work to be done.”

Remington and Stephanie addressed several committees in Tallahassee along the way, including the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee, House Market Reform Subcommittee and Government Oversight Committee.

Stephanie acknowledged the work was tiresome, but she said it also was empowering to be a voice for other families who are in the same boat.

“Our belief and our philosophy has always been that we need to help the people that come behind us,” she said. “Regular, everyday people can make a difference, but people have to understand that. It’s just about everybody making that difference.”

Seeing her son pick up the cause made the efforts all the more worthwhile, too.

Stephanie put it like this: “It is so rare to find an 18-year-old, at the time, meeting with legislators. He knew in his heart that this was the right thing that he needed to be doing. A lot of it he was kind of thrust into it, but he chose to continue.”

In November, Remington and Stephanie co-wrote “Homeplate: A True Story of Resilience,” a 118-page book that delves into a foodless life and insights on coping with a rare esophageal disease.

The project gained momentum to the point where Remington and Stephanie were called to speak at multiple events, including the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED) Conference in Washington D.C. The Walls also presented to over 200 athletes at an Atlanta-based event organized by ACES Nation and All-In FC (Futbol Club) at Sugar Hill.

Meanwhile, Remington has big plans ahead. The college sophomore plans to try out for the Valdosta State baseball team this fall. He’s also studying communications as he considers a career in public speaking.

He hopes his story can inspire others facing similar challenges.

Determination is important, according to Remington.

“If you set your mind to it, you can do it. The only person that can stop you is you,” he said.

Published August 21, 2019

Randy Maggard wins District 38 seat

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Voters have selected Randy Maggard to become their next representative in District 38 of the Florida House of Representatives.

Maggard, a Republican, received 9,615 votes, or 55.58 percent of the total in the Special Election held on June 18. His opponent Kelly Smith, a Democrat, received 7,684, or 44.42 percent of the vote.

The voter turnout in the contest was 15.24.

The district’s boundaries stretch roughly from East Pasco over to U.S. 41 in Central Pasco.

Maggard fills a vacancy that was created by former Rep. Danny Burgess, who accepted an offer from Gov. Ron DeSantis to become the executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Maggard is a businessman and community leader. He’s served as vice president of Sonny’s Discount Appliances for 30 years, according to campaign materials.

He is a Pasco County native, attended Zephyrhills High School and holds an Associate of Arts degree from Pasco-Hernando Community College (now known as Pasco-Hernando State College).

He has served on the Southwest Water Management Governing Board since 2011, including a stint as  chairman, from 2016 to 2018.

He was chairman of the Republican Party of Pasco from 2006 to 2012.

He was a member of the Coastal River Basin Board, from 2004 to 2008, and was vice chairman on that board from 2008 to 2010.

Maggard lives in Dade City. He’s been married to his wife, Colleen, for 34 years, and they have three children.

In his free time, Maggard enjoys hunting, fishing, ranching and spending time with his family.

Maggard was endorsed by Burgess, whom he is replacing.

He also received endorsements from other widely known Pasco County public office holders, including Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco; Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano; Pasco County Commission Chairman Ron Oakley; Pasco County Commission Vice Chairman Mike Moore; Pasco Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning; and former Speaker of the House Richard Corcoran.

Published June 26, 2019

Pasco tax collector’s office receives ‘Heart of Pasco’ award

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Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano and the Land O’ Lakes Tax Collector’s Office recently accepted the Heart of Pasco Award for the office’s exemplary customer service and outstanding community outreach efforts.

Sandy Graves, the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s chairwoman for community affairs, bestowed the award to Fasano, during a Jan. 10 ceremony outside the tax collector’s office in Land O’ Lakes.

The staff of the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office in Land O’ Lakes stand alongside members of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce. The tax office became the recipient of the Heart of Pasco Award on Jan. 10 for its exceptional community service. (Brian Fernandes)

The “Heart of Pasco” award goes to a business that exemplifies the chamber’s mission to “aggressively advocate for the interest of our diverse business community by promoting business advancement, economic growth and job creation.”

Graves said the acknowledgement stems, in part, from that the tax collector’s office expansion in Land O’ Lakes, allowing it to better accommodate its patrons.

In accepting the award, Fasano said, “as Land O’ Lakes grows and Lutz grows, so did our office.”

Fasano, who became the county’s tax collector in 2013, said he wanted to improve the agency and to expand its locations to better serve its customers.

“In some ways, we were behind the times at the tax collector’s office,” said Fasano, recalling when he joined the office. “We needed to be at the same level [and] direction that Pasco was going.”

As a former member of the Florida House of Representatives and the Florida Senate, he understood the importance of serving the needs of his constituents.

As tax collector, he identified that more space was required to serve an expanding population.

“The growth has been overwhelming, but it’s been good, solid growth for our economy and the tax base,” Fasano said.

To help address expanding needs, the tax collector’s office relocated its Land O’ Lakes office to a building next door, in October 2017. The building, previously occupied by the county’s health department, underwent a renovation supported by $1.4 million in county funds.

The Land O’ Lakes office has Saturday hours, too.

Graves also complimented the friendly nature of the tax collector’s staff.

“They all act as if they want to be there,” agreed Suzanne Beauchaine, executive director of the chamber. “They’re happy serving the community.”

Graves and Beauchaine said they have personally witnessed humble attributes of a leader in Fasano.

“The fact that Mike Fasano is the tax collector and you walk in there – he’s right there to say hello to you,” said Beauchaine. “He’s hands-on.”

In addition to attracting Fasano’s staff and chamber members, some Pasco residents also attended the award ceremony — which also recognized the tax collector’s work involving charitable organizations.

The Heart of Pasco Award is given out every four months to Central Pasco organizations for their community outreach – especially for charitable work.

Phyllis Bross, is a chamber member, who also serves as vice chair of the Community Aging and Retirement Services organization.

She said she’s seen Fasano work on behalf of the non-profit group which assists senior citizens in Pasco County.

The tax collector’s office has been involved in helping to raise money for numerous community causes and organizations.  In fact, the office has helped 58 different charities and organizations, with some being helped more than once, according to Greg Giordano, who keeps track of the efforts for Fasano’s office.

Last year, for instance, Fasano and his staff put together cookbooks to sell to raise funds for the local animal shelter.

Bross said Fasano obviously values his employees and they work together, like a family.

Under his leadership, the staff has seen their hourly wages increase by more than $5.

Fasano sees this as an expression of appreciation for his team’s hard work and dedication.

“We could not come close to the success we have if it wasn’t for the employees at the tax collector’s office,” Fasano said.

Since becoming the Pasco County tax collector in 2013, Mike Fasano and his staff have sought community support through the office for dozens of charities.

Bikers Care Charities
Support Our Troops
Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle Drive
Farm Share Annual Holiday Food Giveaway
Be a Santa to a Senior Annual Holiday Gift Collection
Lighthouse for the Blind
The Volunteer Way
Hernando Pasco Hospice
Guardian ad Litem Recruitment Drive
Sertoma Speech & Hearing Foundation
Donate Life/ Lifelink Foundation
Center for Independence (now known as the Arc Nature Coast)
AAA Traffic Safety Foundation
Florida Breast Cancer Foundation Annual Campaign
Terri’s Tears Foundation
Toys 4 Tots Annual toy drive
Veterans Flag Pin Collection Drive
One Community Now’s Annual Hunger Walk
Salvation Army’s Domestic Violence Program
American Heart Association’s National Wear Red Day for Women Campaign
Big Brothers/ Big Sisters of Tampa Bay
Take Stock in Children
Pasco Kids First
Lauren’s Kids
Pasco Sheriff’s K-9 Foundation
Stop Heart Disease
Community Volunteer Corps
Pasco Fine Arts Council
Kiddy-Up Ranch
AFIRE of Pasco
PACE Center for Girls
Pasco Education Foundation
Metropolitan Ministries
Alzheimer’s Family Organization
ASAP of Pasco
Two Good Soles Shoes & Socks Drive
Moffitt Cancer Center
Restored Hope
Blanket Tampa Bay/ Blanket Pasco County
NAMI of Pasco
CARES – Pet Program
Smile Faith Foundation
Homeless Coalition of Pasco
Tax Collector’s Backpack Giveaway
Good Samaritan Clinic
Hurricane Irma Victims Relief – Pasco County
Feeding Pasco’s Elderly
Nourish to Flourish
Sheriff’s Explorer’s Post #916
Special Olympics of Pasco
Connections Job Development Program
CARES – Senior Health Care Center
Catholic Charities Women’s Shelter
RAP House
Shriner’s Christmas in July Toy Drive
Hudson Boy Scout Troop #545
The ROPE Center
Pasco Friends of Animal Services
Published January 16, 2019

DeSantis wants Burgess to lead state’s veterans affairs

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Gov.-elect Ron DeSantis has announced his recommendation of state Rep. Danny Burgess to serve as the state’s next executive director of Florida’s Department of Veterans Affairs.

If his appointment is confirmed, Burgess will have to resign from his District 38 seat in the Florida House of Representatives.

State Rep. Danny Burgess has been recommended to serve as the state’s next executive director of Florida’s Department of Veterans Affairs. (Courtesy of Florida House of Representatives website)

“It’s bittersweet,” Burgess said, noting the appointment “is completely unexpected and not something I sought out.”

But he added, receiving the call from DeSantis regarding the opportunity to serve in the new capacity was humbling, and exciting.

He said he’s delighted to be the one person, in a state of 21 million, that DeSantis wants for the post.

“I’ve worked hard on veterans issues,” Burgess said. This new position will give him greater opportunities to serve people who have served this country, he said.

DeSantis explained his recommendation, in a written statement, according to the Sunshine State News.

“Danny’s commitment to our nation and especially to Florida’s veteran community make him the perfect fit to lead the Department of Veterans Affairs.

“His relentless advocacy for veterans in the Florida Legislature is proof of his commitment to the well-being of our veterans and addressing the important issues they face. I know he will work tirelessly to continue to improve our ability to serve Florida’s veterans, and I look forward to discussing his exemplary record with members of the Cabinet when we convene,” the Sunshine State News reported.

Burgess recently won a third term for District 38, which covers eastern Pasco County. He also is a captain in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Before serving in the Florida House, Burgess served on the Zephyrhills City Council was mayor of Zephyrhills.

If Burgess vacates his seat, it will trigger a need for a special election.

The timing of that is not yet certain, said Pasco Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley.

First, Burgess must vacate his seat. DeSantis then must be sworn into office, which is slated for Jan. 8, and the cabinet has to confirm Burgess.

Once those things, which are expected to happen, happen, Corley said then the new governor would issue an order for a special election for House District 38.

There are about 115,000 voters in District 38. The special election would work like any other election, including early voting, vote by mail, and voting on election day.

“There could be primaries. It all depends on who decides to run,” Corley said.

It’s not unprecedented in Pasco to have a special election to fill a vacancy, after a governor appointment, Corley said.

Mike Fasano resigned from his House District 36 seat after Gov. Rick Scott appointed him in  2013 to become the Pasco County tax collector, after Mike Olson’s death.

That appointment required a special election to fill the District 36 seat in the Florida House, Corley said.

Burgess said he’s aware that Randy Maggard plans to run for District 38.

“He’s a close family friend,” Burgess said. “He’s got my full support.”

Published December 26, 2018