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St. Joseph's Hospital-North

Holiday gatherings should include a heaping helping of COVID precaution

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It’s Thanksgiving. Tradition says it’s best spent in a full house of family and friends, carving the turkey, sharing a table, then strategizing the busy weekend shopping plans.

Medical experts have this advice: Maybe next year.

With COVID-19 again on the rise, holiday traditions probably need to be temporarily halted — or at least revised.

“People have to be much more cautious,’’ said Mark Vaaler, chief medical director at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz. “We know the nationwide (COVID) numbers and now they are definitely increasing in Florida. Most of it has been through community spread. Any of these gatherings have the potential for some negative effects.’’

Mark Vaaler, chief medical director at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz, said people should take the proper precautions at holiday gatherings to prevent the spread of COVID. (Courtesy of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North)

But, in many cases, Vaaler said he knows Thanksgiving gatherings will go on as planned. If so, he advises they should be held with reasonable precautions.

“If you are at-risk, someone over 65, with diabetes or obesity, you should think long and hard about whether this is a year you can get by without a traditional Thanksgiving,’’ Vaaler said. “The general rule of thumb is 10 or less (people), which is usually difficult to do for a Thanksgiving gathering.

“Then it’s about common sense. Social distancing and masks. You shouldn’t bring in family or friends who you haven’t been in contact with or you’re not sure where they’ve been. We’re blessed with good weather in Florida, so I would recommend holding it outside, if possible. That would be a very good idea.’’

Vaaler said he knows his recommendations might cause some raised eyebrows from families that have clamored for the holidays.

He said that’s understandable. People are seeking normalcy after a mostly rough 2020 for schools, businesses and almost every other walk of life.

“I do have a fear that the holidays could bring even more rough times,’’ Vaaler said. “People are very, very tired of wearing masks, observing social distancing and all the rest. I think some folks will say, ‘I’m getting together with my family, no matter what,’ and they’ll conduct activities and proceed like these are normal times.

“There have been studies where a super spreader event is traced back to just one person in the gathering being positive. But, afterward, dozens were infected. Although I understand people being fatigued by COVID, it’s just a good idea to wear the masks and take precautions, especially if you’re around people you’re not normally exposed to on a daily basis.’’

Vaaler said he’s not surprised Florida is in its current state of rising COVID cases. When the numbers dropped a few months back, he detected some complacency. Anecdotally, he has noticed more people declining to get a flu shot because they feel they’re fine with masking and social distancing.

It’s a similar attitude to holiday gatherings.

“You try to warn people, but some just don’t want to hear it, or be told what to do,’’ Vaaler said. “They’re family. They want to hug and kiss because that’s how you express appreciation and love.

“The point is you can still have these gatherings if you limit the people and adhere to precautions. Stay outdoors if you can. Maybe it’s not a normal Thanksgiving, but it’s the best approach for everyone’s sake.’’

Beyond the holidays, Vaaler cautioned that there’s no quick end in sight.

“I’m pretty convinced we’ve got several more months of pain ahead of us,’’ Vaaler said. “We’re getting encouraging news about the effectiveness of vaccines to mitigate the spread, but realistically that’s at least summertime until we get enough people vaccinated.

“In the short term, I believe we’re still in a situation where COVID is part of our lives. My optimistic viewpoint is the summertime (for a return to normal). My pessimistic view is toward the end of next year. Until it’s all clear, all of us must continue to take the proper precautions.’’

By Joey Johnston

Published November 25, 2020

‘Twindemic’ is new challenge now

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With the flu season approaching and the COVID-19 pandemic persisting, there’s already a catchy term to describe what could happen during the winter months.

“Twindemic.’’

The flu and COVID-19? What can you do to fight back? The local medical community offers a clear initial strategy. Get your annual flu shot — now.

Tim Hendrix is medical director for all AdventHealth Centra Care locations, including the Wesley Chapel facility. (Courtesy of AdventHealth)

Tim Hendrix, medical director for all AdventHealth Centra Care locations (including the Wesley Chapel facility), said flu season officially begins Nov. 1, but the public should move urgently.

“We will start seeing cases in October,’’ Hendrix said. “If you look at the pattern historically, the reportable cases start creeping up in October. If you get to Thanksgiving and you haven’t gotten your flu shot, it’s too late. You really need to focus on now. Now is the time before the cases increase.

“Basically, you’re dealing with two epidemics. Our concern is overwhelming capacity at the hospitals and doctor’s offices with both COVID patients and flu patients. Every year, flu puts a strain on our system. We know that, and we’re prepared for that surge. But, now we have two different viruses to deal with, and it can put an even bigger drain on the system and make a lot more people sick,” Hendrix said.

Mark Vaaler, chief medical director of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz, said he’s also worried about an overtaxed medical system.

“If we have a bad flu season and another peak of COVID, if they happen at the same time, we certainly could face a real shortage of beds,’’ Vaaler said. “With our policy of quarantining and sending people home and the potential shortage of health care workers, even if we have beds available, the other concern is having enough workers to staff those beds.

“The best thing we can do is continue our social distancing and masking. That should help for the flu and COVID. I’m hopeful people will not forget the lessons we have learned, because those practices will mitigate both illnesses. And, of course, you need to get that flu shot as soon as possible,’’ Vaaler said.

In a normal year, anywhere from 30% to 50% of Americans get flu shots from doctor’s offices, medical centers or retail pharmacies. Hendrix and Vaaler agree that this year’s percentage needs to increase exponentially.

With the heavy attention given to COVID, flu shot awareness could be at an all-time high. There’s good news from the Southern Hemisphere, where Australia has reported a lighter flu season during its winter months. And that is partially due to COVID precautions. But, it shouldn’t prompt a false sense of security.

Mark Vaaler is chief medical director at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz. (Courtesy of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North)

“I never try to predict a flu season,’’ Hendrix said. “This season will be more variable. We got through the (COVID) surge in April, then Memorial Day hit, and I never thought we’d be where we are now with the number of cases that we’re seeing.

“We cannot model ourselves after Australia or South Africa and hope to have the same type of low flu seasons. Our behaviors are different. Our school years are different. We’re trying to open our schools back up and get our kids back in school,” he said. “Those factors will affect how the flu season looks.’’

Vaaler said he thinks the rise of COVID has been a great advocate for flu shot awareness.

“All the talk about COVID will not go away until we get a vaccine, so hopefully people will realize the only way to control the flu is to get the vaccine,’’ Vaaler said. “As far as completely preventing you from getting the flu, it’s not 100% effective as most people know. But, if you had the vaccine, it still mitigates the severity of the flu. There’s absolutely no reason not to get the flu vaccine.

“Oh, there’s inherent skepticism we as Americans have. Some people just don’t like being told what to do or how to do it. I haven’t seen that talk dissipate. There are always people who say they took the vaccine and still got the flu or they claim they got the flu from the vaccine itself. Those things are not true. The vaccine has great value and never more than in the year like we are currently experiencing.’’

This flu season might be confusing
Hendrix and Vaaler said the Twindemic year could have new twists. What if someone catches the flu and COVID-19 at the same time? What if they get sick and aren’t certain about which virus was contracted?

It can be confusing because the flu and COVID-19 have similar symptoms. The most obvious signs of differentiation are COVID’s tendency to prompt lack of smell and lack of taste, along with heightened aching and fatigue.

“We know co-infection can happen,’’ Hendrix said. “When COVID-19 started (roughly in February), we started seeing people with COVID and influenza. Those people got through it OK, but having two different viruses is never a good thing. The risk of complications is higher with co-infections, and it’s another reason to get a flu shot.’’

“The scary thing about it is you can get both of them,’’ Vaaler said. “You can also get one, get better, then get the other. And, the most serious part is it adversely affects our most vulnerable populations. This is absolutely the year we need to push for everyone to get their flu shot. By getting as many people vaccinated as possible, it can really help the situation.’’

By Joey Johnston

Published September 30, 2020

Lifting spirits in all sorts of ways

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(Courtesy of Blaise Ryndes)

Spreading joy through bubbles
Blaise Ryndes, of Land O’ Lakes, attracted national attention when he took his bubble-making skills to America’s Got Talent.

Now, during a time of a global pandemic, the performer decided to take to his neighborhood streets, to help spread joy during a time of social isolation.

He recently put on a one-car bubble parade for his neighbors.

“To abide by social distancing, everyone stayed in their own yards and we went house to house spreading fun bubbles around, or as I like to call them, little orbs of happiness and cleanliness,” Ryndes reports, in an email to The Laker/Lutz News.

He described his act as “an effort to relieve the angst of quarantine.”

And, based on the photos, it looks like his mobile “Spheres Bubble Show,” was a hit.

AdventHealth staff is joined by volunteers, including Pasco County School Board member Allen Altman, after the meals are delivered to the Dade City hospital. (Courtesy of Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey)

Helping two groups, at the same time
When Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey heard about an effort to show appreciation to front-line workers during the global pandemic, she latched onto it — immediately.

The initiative — launched by Liz Bernich, of Chatham, New Jersey, and Gina McGuire, of Madison, New Jersey – is called the Frontline Appreciation Group (FLAG) 2020.

They wanted to show appreciation to front-line workers, and help restaurants at the same time.

So, they began raising money that they spent to help feed front-line workers.

When Starkey heard about the initiative she launched a Pasco chapter, which is known as FLAG2020Pasco.

As of last week, a total of 105 meals had been delivered, with 64 going to AdventHealth Dade City, and 41 to BayCare’s North Bay Hospital in New Port Richey. Another delivery was planned for the evening of April 24 at AdventHealth Zephyrhills.

So far, restaurants that have participated include Boulevard Beef & Ale and Rose’s Bistro Off Main, both in downtown New Port Richey, which provided meals for North Bay Hospital; and, Green Door on 8th, which provided meals for AdventHealth Dade City.

Donations supporting the efforts so far have come from citizens, as well as county officials including Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley, Pasco County School Board member Allen Altman, Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning and former Pasco Clerk & Comptroller Paula O’Neil.

When she saw the initiative on the news, Starkey said she wanted to get involved because it is innovative and smart.

To help, send donations to:

Venmo: @FLAG2020Pasco

PayPal: PayPal.me/FLAG2020Pasco

Those donating $100 or more will get a sign to place in their yard, which Starkey has purchased as a show of appreciation to contributors.

Make a veteran’s day brighter!
As nursing homes remain off-limits to visitors, the Friends of the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans Nursing Home have launched a project aimed at brightening veterans’ days.

The project is called Operation FAV (For Any Veteran) and it seeks to enlist the help of anyone who wants to get involved to help overcome social distancing requirements by writing a note or sending a card to residents at the nursing home.

Organizers of the effort note, “this Land O’ Lakes nursing home has, like nursing homes throughout the world, been closed for visitors, leaving the residents there somewhat isolated.”

The great thing about this project is that anyone, of any age, can get involved.

All you have to do to is make up a card, note or letter, and address them:

For Any Veteran

Baldomero Lopez State Veterans’ Nursing Home

6919 Parkway Blvd.

Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639

The staff will make sure your cards and notes are distributed to the veterans there who haven’t had visitors in a while. Cards also can be sent in bulk to the same address.

A unique way of reaching out
While acknowledging that a swimming pool is not the most important necessity in life, Glenn Simpson, of GPS Pool, is offering a free chemical pool service to those age 60 and older. For many people, swimming in their pool is the only activity they have during this time of pandemic, Simpson says, in a blurb about his offer. Call (813) 948-9091 for details.

Gerry Ackley and Yvonne Wassman stand on one side of the truck loaded with food, while Steve Graves and Sandy Graves stand on the other. The food goes to help the hungry and is being supported through a donation by the seniors at Sunlake High School. (Courtesy of Lisa Kamps)

Sunlake High seniors step up
When Pasco 2020 Grad Bash was canceled this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, seniors from Sunlake High School decided they wanted to do something worthwhile with the money they’d raised to pay for the event’s buses. They decided to make a big donation to Keystone Community Church’s Second Serving program. That program provides food for the homeless, operates a food pantry and helps people with other essentials, during their time of need.

The church is immensely grateful, said Lisa Kamps, of the Second Serving program.

“The most important thing, I think, for the senior class was to reach out in the Lutz, Land O’ Lakes area, because we don’t have as many opportunities here to assist families in need.

“They wanted to be sure that we were reaching people in this area,” Kamps said, noting that not all of the money will go for food. “We have to see what the need is, and meet it.”

Monica Isle, assistant superintendent of high schools for Pasco County Schools, gave kudos to the Sunlake seniors during the April 21 school board meeting.

“I think it just speaks to our graduating class that we have — of how much they’re thinking of how they can give back to the community,” Isle said.

Coty Darmoth is one of the chefs at Nabruzzi Trattoria. (Courtesy of Dana Nabruzzi)

Serving meals, in show of gratitude
It’s not uncommon for a restaurant to have a special, but Nabruzzi Trattoria has taken its Wednesday night specials to an entirely new level.

It is delivering free hot meals to people who serve the community.

“Every Wednesday we’re going to pick somebody in the area that has put themselves at risk, that are out there every day,” said Massimo Sabetti, the chef/owner of Nabruzzi Trattoria at 6062 Van Dyke Road in Lutz.

The restaurant was closed for about two weeks, before deciding to reopen for take-out and curbside, only.

When it reopened, Sabetti and his wife decided: “We have to do something for the community during this time,” he said.

After all, the community support is the reason the restaurant has done well.

So, on April 8, a meal was delivered to support the workers at Publix, and then another delivery was made that night to support the emergency room staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North.

On April 15, the restaurant delivered a meal to Hillsborough County Rescue Station 34, on Van Dyke Road, and then, on April 22, it delivered a meal for workers at Magnolia Manor Assisted Living Facility.

“We pick a place every week, I call, coordinate, what time is good for them? I get my chefs to make it and we bring it to them,” said Sabetti said.

He’s giving back to a community that has been very good to him, he said.

“The neighborhood has been very, very supportive. I’m very fortunate.”

Tell us about acts of kindness
If you know people who are going out of their way to make life easier for others during this time of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, please let us know by emailing .

Published April 29, 2020

Hospital visitation limited, elective surgeries canceled

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Hospitals across the region are limiting visitors and canceling elective surgeries, as they ramp up preparations to treat increasing cases of people infected by coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19).

As of 11 a.m. on March 23, The Florida Department of Health reported 1,096 confirmed cases of Florida residents and 75 cases of non-Florida residents, for a total of 1,171.

Of those, 73 involved Hillsborough cases and 13 cases in Pasco.

Statewide, there have been 14 deaths.

In response to the evolving threat, BayCare Health System, AdventHealth West Florida Division, and HCA Healthcare West Florida have announced changes in their visitation policies.

BayCare Health System said its changes would take effect on March 21.

“Only in certain, specific instances, will visitors be allowed into facilities,” according to a BayCare news release, issued on March 20.

“We regret this is necessary, but for the protection of our patients, team members, physicians and our community, it is imperative that we limit the number of people in our facilities,” said Dr. Nishant Anand, chief medical officer for BayCare Health System.

“The few visitors who will be allowed into hospitals will be screened for signs and symptoms of COVID-19, the disease resulting from novel coronavirus. Those who are deemed a risk will be restricted from entering the facility and may be referred to an Emergency Department.”

Visitors may still be allowed, if approved by the hospital administrator on duty, in these circumstances:

  • Inpatient: Labor and delivery, postpartum, pediatrics and Neonatal Intensive Care
  • End of life situations
  • Behavioral Health Unit
  • Emergency Room: Waiting room only
  • Outpatient procedures: Waiting room only when accompanying a patient receiving sedation

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz and Morton B. Plant North Bay in New Port Richey are BayCare hospitals within or near The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

AdventHealth hospitals in and near The Laker/Lutz coverage area are AdventHealth Carrollwood, AdventHealth Dade City, AdventHealth Tampa, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and AdventHealth Zephyrhills.

“This is an unprecedented time in health care, and our priority is to keep our patients, team members and ultimately our greater community safe, while we continue to treat those who need our care,” Mike Schultz, president and CEO, of AdventHealth West Florida Division, said in a news release.

Hospitals across the region are limiting visitors. To be sure you have the latest information, check the website.

Before allowing a visitor to enter, according to a news release, HCA Healthcare West Florida said its staff will be asking these questions:

  • Have you had a fever and signs/symptoms of respiratory illness (cough, flu-like symptoms or shortness of breath)?
  • Have you traveled outside the country within the last 14 days (including a cruise)?
  • Have you been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 without wearing the proper protective equipment?
  • Are you currently being tested for COVID-19?

If a potential visitor answers yes to any question, he or she will not be allowed to enter the facility, except to seek emergency medical assistance.

Medical Center of Trinity and Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point are both HCA Healthcare West Florida hospitals.

On another front, hospitals are holding off on elective surgeries, as per an order by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

AdventHealth West Florida Division announced in a March 20 news release, that it will immediately:

  • Postpone all inpatient surgeries that are not time-sensitive
  • Postpone outpatient surgeries that are not time-sensitive
  • Postpone all outpatient procedures in diagnostic centers that are not time-sensitive

“AdventHealth will provide surgery only to patients whose needs are imminently life-threatening, with malignance that could progress, or with active symptoms that require urgent and immediate care” the release says. “This decision allows us to further plan for the increased need for hospital beds, resources, and advocate for patient and team safety.”

Similar policies are in effect at other hospitals in the region.

Also, efforts continue to expand testing for COVID-19.

BayCare Health System, which initially operated seven testing sites, announced it had screened more than 6,100 people and collected specimens for testing from nearly 3,500 during five days of testing.

The hospital chain recently announced that on March 23 it would be consolidating its COVID-19 test collection sites to high volume locations and to provide geographic access.

It now is operating its testing sites at one location each in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Polk counties.

The Hillsborough location is at BayCare Urgent Care, 3440 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Suite 100, in Tampa. The Pasco location is at BayCare Urgent Care, 4821 U.S. 19, in New Port Richey.

BayCare is concentrating on using its limited test supplies to identify patients who have the virus. Patients should be referred by a physician and should have current symptoms — cough, fever, shortness of breath — and meet other criteria recommended by the Centers for Disease Control, according to a BayCare news release.

Patients should bring documentation from a physician that they have been referred for testing.

Tips for helping to prevent COVID-19:

  • Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Keep frequently touched surfaces and objects clean.

Source: Florida Department of Health

Published March 25, 2020

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North expands

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St. Joseph’s Hospital-North has completed a $75 million expansion, and began welcoming patients to its more spacious facility this week.

The project doubled the hospital’s capacity — increasing it from 108 beds to 216 beds. The hospital also has upped its intensive care unit beds from 12 to 24. And, has more room to deliver services, accommodate visitors and enhance employee work areas.

Sara Dodds, the director of operations for St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, has worked at the Lutz hospital since its inception. She has been the point person on the $75 million expansion, which doubled the hospital’s capacity. The expansion is opening this week. (B.C. Manion)

Sara Dodds, the hospital’s director of operations, provided a walk-through tour of the addition to The Laker/Lutz News last week, before it opened for patients.

The expansion will allow the hospital to respond to the area’s fast-paced growth, Dodds said.

“There’s definitely a need. There’s so many new homes going up around us.

“We’ve been overcapacity for quite some time,” she said.

The hospital’s primary market is within 5 miles, and its secondary market is within 10 miles.

“The growth going on in our primary and secondary service areas is much faster than the rest of Florida and the rest of the country,” Dodds said.

In designing its expansion, the hospital sought feedback from its existing staff and incorporated their ideas into the design, she said.

For instance, Dodds said, “We got feedback from the staff that our waiting rooms weren’t very open, and inviting for guests.”

The new waiting rooms feature comfortable furniture, artwork and a flat-screen TV.

Patient rooms also provide accommodations for patients when they’re out of their beds, and offer a place where family member can rest through the night.

Also, at intervals in the hospital’s corridors, there are respite areas.

Dodds explained: “A lot of time we might ask a visitor to step out, while we’re doing something for the patient. Instead of them having to stand out in the hallway, or go walk to another location, we added benches.”

The recently wrapped-up project also includes technology to help patients.

There’s a “Get Well Network,” which allows patients to watch health videos, learn about their medications and so on. “That is all integrated with their medical record,” Dodds said.

The hospital also uses technology that automatically displays the name and title of hospital staff entering a patient’s room on the television screen.

That system is integrated with the hospital’s call light system, so “as long as a nurse or a tech or another member of that clinical care team is in the room, there’s a specific color light that’s illuminated outside the room,” Dodds said.

The hospital also uses a technology that allows care team members to secure-message physicians and anyone they might need to take care of a patient.

Some of the approximately 100 St. Joseph’s Hospital-North team members who have been with the hospital since it opened on Feb. 15, 2010. (Courtesy of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North)

“It’s definitely enhanced communications, on behalf of the patient,” she said.

The expansion also includes a dedicated hemodialysis suite, which can accommodate up to four patients at a time.

It has a larger space for physical therapy, too, to help patients prepare to return home after treatment.

The hospital’s clinical engineering department now has a larger workspace, where staff can ensure the hospital’s equipment is up-to-date and can do required preventative maintenance work.

The design keeps function, in mind.

In the progressive care area, for instance, a nurse can sit at a station, with windows on both sides. The nurse can slide open the blinds, to observe two patient rooms, without having to enter the rooms.

The hospital also is using technology to help manage its inventory.

“Historically, someone from materials management would have to come in each day, or more than once a day, and have to count everything that was in the bin (material container), so they knew what to reorder.

“Now, with this new technology, there’s a scale built into every one of those bins, they can see it on a computer system, so they know, remotely, what needs to be reordered,” Dodds said.

The technology improves efficiency.

“We did hire a lot of new staff for the expansion, but this is one area where we did not have to because of the innovation,” Dodds said.

The hospital also has more classrooms now, which are used to keep staff up to date on the latest information, to provide training on new equipment and to accommodate orientations. They’re also available for classes to help staff members meet continuing education requirements.

With a larger facility, more employees will be needed.

Dodds expects the hospital to need 200 additional employees, when the expansion is operating at full capacity.

She’s been working there since its inception and is excited about the facility’s future.

Apparently, she’s not the only one who enjoys working there.

“We just celebrated our 10-year anniversary,” she said. “We have close to 100 team members that were here when the hospital opened that are still here now.”

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North
The $75 million expansion:

  • Doubled number of hospital beds, from 108 to 216
  • Doubled intensive care unit beds, from 12 to 24
  • Added two new floors
  • Added a new infusion center, allowing treatment for up to 15 patients at one time
  • Doubled number of operating suites, from four to eight

Hospital statistics, 2019

  • 404 births
  • 4,467 outpatient surgeries
  • 42,869 emergency room visits
  • 463,414 lab tests

Hospital statistics, 2010-2019

  • 6, 944 cardiac procedures
  • 380,061 emergency room visits
  • 61,137 admissions
  • 31,300 surgeries
  • 3,923 babies delivered

Service providers

  • 188 physicians with hospital privileges in 2010; more than 350 in 2020
  • 476 team members in 2010; 820 in 2020

Published March 11, 2020

Grieving families will benefit from donation

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St. Joseph’s Hospital-North labor and delivery nurse Kathleen Webster, left, alongside Cristelle Suarez holding her daughter, Opal. Cristelle donated the CuddleCot to St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in memory of Oliver, her son and Opal’s brother. (Courtesy of St. Joseph’s Hospitals, BayCare Health System)

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North was the recipient of a $3,000 CuddleCot donated by Land O’ Lakes resident Cristelle Suarez.

A CuddleCot is a cooling system that gives families days, instead of hours, to create memories with their babies.

Suarez lost a child in October 2012 and raised the funds for the CuddleCot through social media and a partnership with Madison’s Miracles, an organization that provides support and resources to grieving parents who have experienced infant loss.

Every year, Suarez does something in memory of her deceased child, Oliver.

A CuddleCot gives bereaved families precious extra time for hugs, kisses and other bonding. Suarez did not have a CuddleCot at the time of Oliver’s death. “I wish I did have one,” she said. “This is my way of helping anyone else that loses a baby, and remembering Oliver.”

Summer heat poses health risks; take steps to stay safe

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Heat advisories, warnings and watches have been issued in recent weeks across the country, putting millions of Americans at risk.

At least six deaths were attributed to the massive heatwave, and events, such as the New York City Marathon, were cancelled, according to CBS News.

Besides being uncomfortable, hot weather also can pose potential health risks. If you need to be outside, be sure to seek shade and be sure to drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. (Christine Holtzman)

And, it comes as no surprise that Florida’s notorious heat and humidity also can create potentially dangerous conditions.

So, what can people do to reduce their risk of suffering from heat-related illnesses?

One of the most important steps people can take is to avoid dehydration, said Dr. Katrina Cordero, the Emergency Room medical director at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, in Lutz.

Dehydration can lead to other complications, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke, she said.

Heatstroke is a serious condition that requires immediate emergency care, Cordero said.

Symptoms of heatstroke include a temperature, confusion and, at times, irritability, she said.

Other symptoms can include hallucinations and tremors, she added.

Cordero offered some reminders to help avoid heat-related illnesses.

“If you must be outside for a prolonged period of time, at least try to stay in some shade,” the doctor said.

Be sure to stay hydrated. It helps to carry a bottle around with you, to serve as a reminder, she added.

Drinking Gatorade can help, too, to restore electrolytes that are lost when people sweat.

A personal fan can help keep you cool, and wearing a broad brim hat can give you your own personal shade, too.

“If  you must go out, make sure you’re not staying out there all day,” she said.

Beach-goers also need to avoid too much time in the sun, she said. “You might want to take a break, go into a store — so your body has a chance to cool down.”

It’s also important to wear sunscreen, and to reapply.

People often forget to reapply — especially after they’ve been swimming, she said.

“Just a short exposure, with our strong sun, can cause some damage,” Cordero said.

The doctor also advised coaches to be sure they give their players plenty of chances for water or sports drink breaks.

“The hotter that it is, increase their (break)  frequency, depending on how long they’re staying out and how much they’re exerting themselves,” Cordero said.

Summer dangers

Children die in hot cars
Fifty-two children died in hot cars in 2018 — the deadliest year on record in the past 20 years, according to the National Safety Council. Almost 800 children have died from vehicular heatstroke since 1998.

How does it happen?

  • A caregiver forgets a child in a vehicle
  • The child gains access to a vehicle
  • Someone knowingly leaves a child in a vehicle

The National Safety Council says to stick to a routine to reduce the risk of forgetting a child. Keep a purse, briefcase or even a left shoe in the back seat to force you to look there before leaving the car. Also, be sure to keep vehicle doors locked, to prevent children from climbing in; and never leave a child inside the car when you are not there, even if you’re just running a quick errand. (Editor’s note: Remember to protect your pets from hot cars, too).

Prevent drownings
Drowning is the leading cause of injury death for children ages 1 through 14, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC offers these key prevention tips:

  • Learn life-saving skills: Know the basics of swimming (floating, moving through the water) and learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
  • Fence your pool: Use a four–sided isolation fence, with self–closing and self–latching gates.
  • Require life jackets in and around natural water bodies, such as lakes or the ocean.
  • Be vigilant: Closely supervise kids when they’re in or near water, including bathtubs. Drowning happens quickly and quietly. Adults watching kids in and near water should avoid distracting activities, such as playing cards, reading books, talking on the phone, and using alcohol or drugs.

Heatstroke is dangerous, can be deadly
Heatstroke requires emergency treatment, experts at the Mayo Clinic say. Untreated heatstroke can quickly damage your brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. The damage worsens the longer treatment is delayed, increasing your risk of serious complications or death.

Published July 31, 2019

Quick Move-In Townhomes Now Ready at Mattamy Homes

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Mattamy Homes’ popular townhome communities in Lutz and Citrus Park have an array of Quick Move-In townhomes ready now, just in time for a summer move in and to get settled  before the 2019-20 school year begins.

This beautiful kitchen flows into the dining and living areas of the Santa Rosa, a 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath townhome available at Avea Pointe in Lutz.

A wide selection of thoughtfully-designed townhomes is available at both Avea Pointe in Lutz and Lakeview at Citrus Park, with special savings and paid closing costs available for a limited time. Models are open daily, and Open House events are being hosted every weekend in July at both communities.

Avea Pointe In Lutz
This community’s first residents recently began moving into Avea Pointe, Mattamy’s second  Lutz community located off Van Dyke Road, just west of Dale Mabry Highway.

“Our floorplans are perfect for first-time homebuyers, families with children and even empty-nesters,” said Kathleen Dec, marketing manager for Mattamy Homes. “We offer some of the largest townhomes in Tampa Bay, all designed to live like single-family homes.”

Avea Pointe offers three unique floor plans that feature open floor plans and 2-car garages. The sales center just debuted on location, and is open daily at 5653 Van Dyke Road in Lutz.

All townhomes feature large open kitchens, optimized living spaces, covered lanais and 2-car garages.  The Santa Rosa is 1,913 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, with an owner’s suite on the first level; the Sebring is 2,230 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths; and the Venice is 2,574 square feet with 4 bedrooms (including a first-floor bedroom) and 3 baths. Prices begin in the low $300s.

This gated community’s pool and cabana are nearing completion and will be ready for residents to enjoy in late July.

In addition to its convenient location, excellent schools are another reason many families choose Avea Pointe. Children attend Steinbrenner High, Martinez Middle and Schwarzkopf Elementary, all less than three miles away on Lutz Lake Fern Road.

Avea Pointe is just minutes from St. Joseph’s Hospital-North and the Veterans Expressway, which makes it an easy commute to Tampa Regional Airport, the Westshore district, downtown Tampa and area beaches.

Lakeview at Citrus Park
Lakeview at Citrus Park is one of the prettiest and most convenient locations in the north Tampa area. Mattamy Homes has been selling in this community for less than a year, and has already sold close to 50 homes in this 124-townhome community.

“Our new Lakeview models are beautifully decorated and furnished, and feel as spacious and private as single-family homes. Plus, prices in this community are very affordable, beginning in the mid $200s,” said Dec.

Five floor plans are available. The Marianna (1,667 sq. ft.) and Ormond (1,888 sq. ft.) have 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and single garages. The Santa Rosa (1,928 sq. ft.) has 3 bedrooms, one of which is located downstairs, 2.5 baths, and a 2-car garage. The Sebring (2,230 sq. ft.) has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 2-car garage. The Venice (2,574 sq. ft.) has 4 bedrooms, including one downstairs, 3 baths and a double garage.

“Both Avea Pointe and Lakeview at Citrus Park are selling fast because buyers love the fantastic assortment of close-by things to do, from recreational outings to fabulous shopping to an epicurean array of restaurants,” said Dec.

Avea Pointe is five minutes from Hillsborough County’s expansive Lake Park with its non-motorized boat access, hiking trails, BMX track and multiple playgrounds. Homes in Lakeview at Citrus Park overlook tranquil Gant Lake at the end of Tom Fuller Road, where residents have a community pier for fishing, kayaking and paddle-boarding.

When it comes to shopping, Avea Pointe is a mile or so from shopping on Dale Mabry.  Lakeview at Citrus Park is literally minutes away to Westfield Citrus Park Mall. Both communities are a quick trip down the Veterans Expressway to International Plaza and Westshore Plaza in Tampa.

“Our buyers at Avea Pointe and Lakeview love being close to so many things to do,” said Dec. “These are perfect communities for people who want fun things to do with family and friends of all ages.”

Visit MattamyHomes.com, or call (813) 580-7303, to learn more about these communities. Buyers of quick move-in homes enjoy special savings and incentives.

Published June 26, 2019

Will election be ‘one for the ages?’

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When he looks ahead to the 2020 Presidential Election, Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley predicts, “that’s going to be one for the ages.”

For one thing, there are already attorneys being lined up in Florida, on both sides of the aisle, for next year, Corley said, during a luncheon meeting last week of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, at  St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz.

But, the elections supervisor added: “We’re used to the scrutiny.

“Florida is always going to be in the perennial spotlight. It’s the largest battleground state in the country, and it’s always close.

Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley expects the 2020 Presidential Election ‘to be one for the ages.’ (B.C. Manion)

“Why is that? There’s a good sampling of Democrats, Republicans and Independents. Voters tend to choose their own way,” Corley said.

On top of that, “Florida is now the nation’s third largest state,” he said.

The elections official also touched on the Mueller Report, officially known as the Report on the Investigation into Russian Interference in the 2016 Presidential Election.

Corley said he has read the entire report.

He also noted that depending on which news channel people watch, they tend to call the report “fake news,” or tend to say “It definitely happened. The president needs to be impeached.” Corley did not offer his personal opinion.

But, he did say, “When you read the report, it lays out, in explicit detail, what happened. “

He also cited these words, from Mueller: “There were multiple systematic attempts to interfere in our election. That allegation deserves the attention of every American.”

Corley said citizens do need to be concerned about any attempts by foreign governments to meddle in our elections.

He also raised concerns about the misuse of social media.

“We are unknowingly aiding those who want to destroy us from within,” Corley said.

“In 2016, over 72,000 Americans RSVP’d to a political event on Facebook, that truly was fake news. It was created by some knucklehead in another country.

“That’s troubling, when you think about it,” he added.

There were fake Twitter accounts set up, such as @TenneseeGOP, Corley said.

“Using social media, they did millions of dollars of ads to pit us against each other. In the morning, it would be a Pro Black Lives Matter. In the afternoon, it would be pictures of Rebel flags, saying anti-Black Lives Matter messages. Pro Hillary, anti-Hillary. Pro Trump.

“It was trying to polarize us against each other,” Corley said.

“What was their goal in 2016? Their goal was to erode voter confidence, delegitimize the winner, and polarize America. Hmm. Sound like they were pretty successful?”

He also talked about the damage that polarization is causing in personal relationships.

“I actually know somebody — a father and a son — who were bickering about who to vote for on Facebook,” he said.

One unfriended the other, he noted.

“These are blood. (They) Stopped talking. To this day, they don’t talk,” he said.

The forum doesn’t lend itself to thoughtful discussions, Corley added.

“Have you ever seen something on Facebook, and  you’ve written to somebody about a political issue? And the person has written back, ‘Wow, that’s an excellent point. I have never thought of that point of view, thank you.’

“No, they write back, ‘You’re an idiot,’ or some clever little meme describing you,” Corley said.

He has even noticed a change in the atmosphere at local polling places during the past three general elections.

“I look back, during early voting, the presidential general in 2012, Land O’ Lakes Library, (on the) last day. There was a line.

“But, it was like a block party atmosphere. People of different races, ethnicities, genders, political backgrounds. They were talking to their neighbors. They don’t know each other. Just chatting. No one cared who was going to vote for whom. You were either going to vote for Mitt Romney or President Obama,” he said.

But, he noted, in 2016, “It wasn’t that way.

“It was palpable. You could see people in the polling places and in early voting, they were there on a mission. They were either there to vote for (Donald) Trump, or vote for Hillary (Clinton) — and don’t talk to me.

“It was just like robotic. It was troubling, to be honest with you,” Corley said.

And, in 2018, he added, “I’m comfortable saying, I saw a little more return to civility.

“We need civility. Civility is not a dirty word.

“Have your discussions, your debates, your disagreements. But, at the end of the day, we’re all Americans. We’re united as Americans,” Corley said.

Corley also addressed the importance to protecting election results against cyber threats.

Security will be enhanced, but those steps must remain confidential, Corley said.

He also pointed out that the system recently was tested because of the need for three recounts in the 2018 election.

“We had lawyers from Washington, Tallahassee, representatives locally of the different campaigns, the different local parties. Different sides of the aisle, clearly. But, they were there for the whole thing, several days. They got to witness the transparency.

“It instilled confidence in the system. That’s what we need, in this day and age,” Corley said.

Published June 19, 2019

Hiking, Biking, Shopping and Dining – All Close To Mattamy Homes’ Townhome Communities

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Mattamy Homes’ two new townhome communities in Lutz and Citrus Park are selling fast because buyers love the fantastic assortment of close-by things to do, from recreational outings to fabulous shopping to an epicurean array of restaurants.

“Our buyers at Avea Pointe in Lutz and Lakeview at Citrus Park are active, engaged families who love being close to so many things to do,” said Kathleen Dec, marketing manager at Mattamy Homes. “These are perfect communities for people who want fun things to do with family and friends of all ages.”

The floor plan of the four-bedroom, three-bath Venice townhome with its gorgeous kitchen received a prestigious Silver Award during the recent Tampa Bay Parade of Homes Tampa.

Avea Pointe is five minutes away from Hillsborough County’s expansive Lake Park, with its non-motorized boat access, hiking trails, BMX track and multiple playgrounds. At Lakeview, its homes overlook tranquil Gant Lake at the end of Tom Fuller Road, where residents have a community pier for fishing, kayaking and paddle-boarding.

Both communities also are an easy drive to Brooker Creek Headwaters Nature Preserve, with its flats fishing, walking trails and observation tower. Plus, there are nearby golf courses and equestrian stables, ice skating in Wesley Chapel, and even hot air balloon rides when the weather is right.

When it comes to shopping, Avea Point is just 20 minutes to Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz and The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel, while Lakeview is minutes away to Westfield Citrus Park Mall, and a quick trip down the Veterans Expressway to International Plaza and Westshore Plaza in Tampa.

An array of well-appointed townhomes is now ready at both communities, with quick move-in homes available for families wanting to get settled before the 2019-2020 school year begins.

Avea Pointe In Lutz
Avea Pointe is located off Van Dyke Road on Lakeshore Road, directly across from Mattamy Homes’ Lakeshore Preserve community. It offers three unique floor plans designed to live like single-family homes.

All townhomes feature large open kitchens, optimized living spaces, covered lanais and 2-car garages.  The Santa Rosa is 1,913 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, with an owner’s suite on the first level; the Sebring is 2,230 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths; and the Venice is 2,574 square feet with 4 bedrooms (including a first-floor bedroom) and 3 baths. Prices begin in the low $300s.

“We offer some of the largest townhomes in the area,” said Dec. “Their unique designs are perfect for first-time homebuyers, families with children and empty-nesters.”

Avea Pointe is just minutes from St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, within 2 miles of the Veterans Expressway and an easy commute to Tampa, the airport and area beaches.

Excellent schools are another reason families move to Avea Pointe, whose children are zoned to Steinbrenner High, Martinez Middle and Schwarzkopf Elementary, all less than 3 miles away on Lutz Lake Fern Road.

Lakeview Already 30% Sold Out
Mattamy Homes has only been selling in Lakeview at Citrus Park since August, and already over 30 percent of its homes have sold. The community will have 124 townhomes when completed.

“Lakeview at Citrus Park is one of the prettiest and most convenient locations in the north Tampa area,” said Dec. “Our new models are beautifully decorated and furnished, and feel as spacious and private as single-family homes. Plus, prices in this community are very affordable, beginning in the mid $200s.”

Five floor plans are available. The Marianna (1,667 sq. ft.) and Ormond (1,888 sq. ft.) have 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and single garages. The Santa Rosa (1,928 sq. ft.) has 3 bedrooms, one of which is located downstairs, 2.5 baths, and a 2-car garage. The Sebring (2,230 sq. ft.) has 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths and a 2-car garage. The Venice (2,574 sq. ft.) has 4 bedrooms, including one downstairs, 3 baths and a double garage.

 Visit MattamyHomes.com, or call (813) 580-7303, to learn more about these communities. Buyers of quick move-in homes enjoy special savings, including closing costs paid.

Published May 22, 2019