The Laker/Lutz News

Pasco County Fire Rescue

Iconic Zephyrhills business lost to fire

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A sadness looms over 5707 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Caution tape, and charred debris litter the empty, dirt parking lot.

A pungent smell of burnt wood lingers in the air.

The burned-out shell of the Crystal Bar and Package Store, as seen two days after a fire destroyed the popular Zephyrhills bar. (Christine Holtzman)

Such is the aftermath of a May 2 two-alarm fire that destroyed the Crystal Bar and Package store, a Zephyrhills landmark, which has operated at the location since 1954.

Zephyrhills Fire Rescue received a call about a commercial building on fire at the Crystal Bar and Package store on Gall Boulevard at 11:30 a.m., on May 2, according to a report from Pasco County Fire Rescue.

Upon arrival, Zephyrhills fire reported heavy fire through the roof, according to Pasco Fire Rescue’s report.

Pasco County Fire Rescue assisted Zephyrhills Fire Rescue in battling the fire, which was upgraded to a two-alarm fire, and caused the closure of Gall Boulevard at 12th Street, requiring local detours. No injuries were reported. The State Fire Marshal’s Office was requested to respond to the scene.

Two days after the fire, Bob Geddes, one of the establishment’s owners, was in disbelief, as he, family and friends, returned to the site to search for items that may have survived the enormous blaze that raged through the wood-frame building.

Geddes said the fire was electrical in nature. He said it started in the attic and moved swiftly, fueled by old, dry wood. The roof collapsed. He said the building is considered a total loss.

Armed with a cordless drill, bar manager/owner Bob Geddes Jr., walks toward the entrance, to enter the fire-ravaged building.

The establishment, known to be the longest-operating bar in the city, has a rich history within the community.

Geddes’ father, Bob, and his mother, Geraldine — who went by Jerry — bought the bar in 1954. The younger Bob was just 18 months old at the time.

In the early years, the owners, originally from Chicago operated the bar from an old wood structure that sat behind the current building.

The couple went on to have six kids, some of whom worked in the business in some capacity, over the years.

Around 27 years ago, the Geddes siblings formed a corporation and became the current owners. Their mom passed away in 2000, and their dad passed on in 2004.

The loss of the bar has touched a chord with people who have patronized it through the years. Its Facebook page is filled with comments, offering condolences, sharing memories and expressing a sense of loss.

It was a place where lifelong friendships began. Relationships that formed within its walls sometimes led to marriage. Going to the bar for a drink became a rite of passage for generations of families.

Although people have been asking whether the Crystal Bar will be rebuilt, two days after the blaze — as Geddes and loved ones searched through the rubble — the answer remained unclear.

“Who knows what the future holds,” Geddes said.

B.C. Manion contributed to this story.

Published May 08, 2019

Responders’ work praised in Dade City Business Center fire

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Pasco County Commission Chairman Ron Oakley praised the work of emergency responders who converged on the Dade City Business Center, in Dade City, to put out a two-alarm fire, which began in the early afternoon on Jan. 18.

Pasco County Fire Rescue was among numerous agencies responding to a two-alarm blaze at the Dade City Business Center. It took 19 hours to put the fire out. Pasco County Fire Rescue investigators attributed the cause of the fire to welding being done by an employee. (Courtesy of Pasco County Fire)

It took about 18 hours to bring the fire under control, according to a report from Pasco County Fire Rescue.

Pasco County Fire Rescue investigators attributed the cause of the fire to welding being done by an employee. The estimated damage to the business center was put at $3 million.

Oakley said local firefighters were joined by crews from other counties and received support from various agencies, in the quest to put out the raging fire.

“At the height of the fire, there were approximately 114 personnel on the scene working to mitigate the incident,” Oakley told his fellow Pasco County commissioners, during the board’s Jan. 22 meeting.

“There were no injuries. That’s the best part of the whole thing,” Oakley said.

“The fire started about 12:30 or 1 o’clock on Friday. You could see it from downtown Dade City. Just black smoke. It was hard to figure what was going on at the time.

“It started in one warehouse and it moved from one to three warehouses, and it affected five out of seven businesses right in that area in the business center,” Oakley said.

Combating the fire involved having to shut down the railway, which is no easy feat, he said.

Fortunately, there was sufficient water at the business center site to battle the blaze, Oakley said. Otherwise, crews would have had to close U.S. 301 to get to the closest water, Oakley said.

The commission chairman said he plans to send a letter thanking everyone who helped, including various agencies and the businesses that provided food to feed those working the incident.

Published January 30, 2019

Efforts underway to help Hurricane Michael victims

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In the aftermath of Hurricane Michael, some local efforts are underway to help the storm’s victims.

Hurricane Michael was monstrous, clocking winds at 155 mph and becoming the first Category 4 storm to slam into Florida’s Panhandle.

A look at some of the devastation in Gulf County, where Pasco County teams are helping in the aftermath of Hurricane Michael. (Courtesy of Pasco County Fire Rescue)

Its fierce winds and storm surge have reduced coastal communities to rubble, and after wreaking its havoc on the Panhandle, the destructive storm made its way through Georgia, North Carolina and Virginia.

At least 18 deaths had been reported as of Monday, with eight in Florida, three in North Carolina, one in Georgia and six in Virginia, according to the website, Weather.com.

Authorities predict it will take some time, even years in some cases, for areas hit by Hurricane Michael’s fury to recover.

While being spared the storm’s wrath, the Tampa Bay region is responding with ways to help.

A local donation drive is being coordinated by the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon, the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and Wesley Chapel Nissan.

Donations can be dropped off through Oct. 19 at Wesley Chapel Nissan, 28519 State Road 54, in Wesley Chapel. The dealership’s hours are 9 a.m. until 9 p.m.

These are the items that are needed:

  • Portable generators
  • Insect repellent
  • Bottled water
  • Bleach
  • Disinfectant wipes
  • Latex gloves
  • Large garbage bags
  • Brooms
  • Mops
  • Sponges
  • Laundry detergent
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Soap
  • Feminine products
  • Diapers
  • Baby wipes
  • First aid kits/supplies
  • Tarps

“We’re going to pack trucks on Saturday, and if we can get in, we’ll leave on Sunday,” said Chris Casella, president-elect of the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon.

“We’re going to be delivering it to St. James Episcopal Church,” he said.

A few of the items collected so far in the showroom at Wesley Chapel Nissan. (Courtesy of Chris Casella)

Thomas Dwyer, the pastor of the church, also serves as the president of the Rotary Club of Port St. Joe.

The Wesley Chapel club wanted to be sure it had a focused effort, with a local contact to make sure the supplies could be distributed there.

“Rotary District 6950 — which is Citrus County, Pinellas County, Hernando and Pasco — they sent out 1,900 emails to our members,” Casella said. “A lot of people are sending us checks, and we’re just going to go shop on Saturday.”

The effort is focused on providing practical items that people need that the Federal Emergency Management Agency doesn’t provide, such as cleaning supplies and personal hygiene items.

“Insect repellent is going to be huge. These people are going to be outside all day long,” Casella said. Plus, there’s no electric, so the windows are open.

“The focus on television has been Mexico Beach and Panama City. You don’t hear about Port St. Joe, at all,” Casella said. “A small town like Port St. Joe will get neglected.”

Two of the Rotary Club’s Interact Clubs are also doing supply collection drives, Casella said. One of those clubs is at Wesley Chapel High School and the other one is at Cypress Creek Middle High School.

“The chamber (North Tampa Bay Chamber) has been incredible with this. They’re mobilizing local businesses,” Casella said.

Other Rotary Clubs are pitching in.

And, Wesley Chapel Nissan’s ownership and management has played a vital role by allowing the dealership’s staff to help and making room for the supplies in the dealership’s showroom, Casella said.

Mady Miller, a student from Sanders Elementary School, organizes a water collection drive at her school, which results in a truck full of water collected in a single day. (Courtesy of Chris Casella)

In addition to those efforts, Pasco County government is lending its assistance to hurricane victims, as well.

Troy Stevenson, of Wesley Chapel Nissan, said “we’re convoying up Sunday. We’ve got Wesley Chapel Nissan employees, Wesley Chapel Rotary and North Tampa Bay Chamber.”

“By the end of the week, we’ll probably be sending up two truckloads.”

One team from Pasco Emergency Services (911) was deployed to Bay County. The six dispatchers on the team are relieving and supporting the 911 center there, according to Brendan Fitterer, public information officer for Pasco County.

Pasco Emergency Management also has deployed the State of Florida Region 4/6  All-Hazards Incident Management Team (AHIMT) to Gulf County.

This group is made up of personnel from Pasco County Fire Rescue and Emergency Management, as well as personnel from Hernando, Sumter, Hillsborough, Manatee and Sanford counties, the University of South Florida and the Lakeland Police Department.

The all-hazards team is being deployed for both Emergency Operations Center support and field operations, as needed, Fitterer said, via email.

Published October 17, 2018

Volunteer firefighter up for national award

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Stephanie Sorenson always had a desire to become a firefighter.

But, she was initially hesitant to join the force.

Being a female, the Wesley Chapel resident was unsure how she would be accepted within the Pasco County Fire Rescue fraternity. She, too, was unaware of how to become a volunteer firefighter— until she attended a fire safety event at The Shops at Wiregrass more than four years ago.

“Ever since then,” Sorenson said, “I’ve always enjoyed doing it, and haven’t stopped.”

The 40-year-old woman is assigned to Volunteer Fire Station 28, at 21709 Hale Road in Land O’ Lakes.

Typically, she undergoes Wednesday night fire training sessions, and often picks up weekend shifts, as her schedule permits.

Volunteering, she said, gives her the sense of what its like to be a career firefighter.

“My favorite thing to do is do a 24-hour shift at the career (fire) stations,” she explained. “I like going into the career stations because I feel like I can be of more help, especially the busy stations that get medical calls all the time. I like to be able to go to a busy station, and ride on the ambulance and help out in that way.”

Also a full-time ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) teacher at Clark Elementary in New Tampa, Sorenson balances her volunteer firefighter schedule with her primary responsibilities as a teacher and a mother.

Stephanie Sorenson is one of five finalists for volunteers ‘who represent the best of the fire service,’ in nationwide campaign. (Courtesy of Pasco County Fire)
Stephanie Sorenson is one of five finalists for volunteers ‘who represent the best of the fire service,’ in nationwide campaign.
(Courtesy of Pasco County Fire)

Sorenson recently competed in “Step Up and Stand Out,” a national campaign sponsored by Kidde —  a leading manufacturer of residential fire safety product— to increase awareness of the ongoing need for volunteer firefighters.  The national contest was launched on Feb. 11 to recognize volunteers who have “gone above and beyond in their community.”

She is one of five finalists selected from video nominations for volunteers “who represent the best of the fire service.”

The winner of the contest — which continues through Sept. 23 — will receive a $1,000 training grant for their fire department, plus additional prizes – including a free trip for two to Nashville, Tennessee.

Pasco County Volunteer Services Chief Walter Lewellen nominated Sorenson for the nationwide campaign after observing her dedication as a volunteer.

“She has strong interest in the fire service,” Lewellen said about Sorenson. “She has a positive attitude, and she’s very creative in coming up with things that we can do to provide a valuable service to the community.

“When something’s going on, she’s always one of the first persons to try to be involved.”

Lewellen, too, was moved by two life-altering events in Sorenson’s life.

The first was a major house fire caused by an electrical shortage when Sorenson was a middle-schooler in Pinellas County.

“The toaster was plugged in, and it just shorted out and it caught on fire,” Sorenson said about her family’s Seminole home.

Luckily, she said, her family was at church at the time: “No one was hurt.”

But, smoke damage destroyed all of her family’s belongings.

“With the house fire, it just made me very concerned about leaving things plugged in,” she explained.

“We always made sure before we left the house that everything was unplugged, and sometimes my family — because of the anxiety of losing all your belongings and not having a home to live in — we double check things and sometimes triple check.”

The other tragic event occurred later in life —on Sorenson’s high school prom night — when her stepfather was in a horrific car accident.

While driving to the dance, she witnessed firefighters pull him from the wreckage, saving his life through the use of hydraulic rescue tools.

“They had to use the ‘Jaws of Life’ to remove the (car) roof,” said Sorenson.

The two tragic events caused Sorenson to have “an anxiety to the siren,” until she began her volunteer training — overcoming her fear.

“Training gave me confidence,” she said. “It didn’t matter if I was a female or not, I could do it, too, just like the guys.”

She added: “I love being a firefighter — not only the 24-hour shifts— but I love the continual training that we do, learning and working as a team to help other people.”

Chief Lewellen, who spent 29 years working with Tampa Fire Rescue, said volunteer firefighters provide an invaluable service.

“The volunteer stations tend to be in areas that don’t have as much coverage as other areas so, when they’re in service, it provides a first response unit and a couple of extra hands,” Lewellen said.

That includes cases like last month’s electrical fire at Bayonet Point Medical Center in Hudson, where 209 patients needed to be evacuated.

“I had approximately 30 volunteers over there, and that made a tremendous difference,” said Lewellen. “They helped people get loaded up and transported out of there, and they also set up a rehab area.”

Out of Pasco’s 590 fire rescue personnel, about 120 are volunteers.

The volunteers come from all different backgrounds and walks of life, Lewellen said.

“I have 18-year-old kids with nothing really going on yet, 70-year-old retirees and everything in between, so the volunteers that we have is a broad spectrum and very diverse,” he explained. “We do have an increasing number of female volunteers.”

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), about 87 percent of America’s 30,000 fire departments are either fully or partially staffed by volunteers.

But, the number of volunteer firefighters has steadily deceased over the past 30 years.

An NFPA report published earlier this year shows the number of volunteer firefighters per 1,000 people has been decreasing since 1986. The report — which collects its data through surveys of fire departments — analyzed the number of career or full-time paid firefighters and the number of volunteers from 1986 through 2014.

There were 788,250 volunteers in 2014 compared to 808,200 in 1986, the report shows.

If you would like to vote for Sorenson, visit Firehouse.com/VF. Votes will be accepted through Sept. 23.

Published September 21, 2016

Zephyrhills names new fire chief

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The Zephyrhills City Council appointed a new fire chief during a special meeting on Aug. 16.

It was the fourth new fire chief within four years.

Brian Swartout has more than 32 years of fire service experience, and most recently served as Division Fire Chief for the Seminole Tribe Fire/Rescue in Broward County.

As division fire chief with the Seminole Tribe, Swartout supervised a staff of 104.  He was also responsible for fleet management, capital projects, new purchases, and rehabilitation of apparatus and equipment maintenance.

New Fire Chief Brian Swartout addresses the Zephyrhills City Council on Aug. 16. He is the city’s fourth fire chief over a four-year period. (Kevin Weiss/Staff Photos)
New Fire Chief Brian Swartout addresses the Zephyrhills City Council on Aug. 16. He is the city’s fourth fire chief over a four-year period.
(Kevin Weiss/Staff Photo)

Swartout previously worked for the Lee County Port Authority, City of Deland Fire/Rescue, Flagler County Fire/Rescue, St. Johns County Fire/Rescue, City of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue and Broward County Crash Fire Rescue.

City Manager Steve Spina said Swartout “definitely stood out” among the three candidates that were interviewed for the post.

With continual turnover at the fire department’s leadership position, city council members indicated they’d like to see a “multiple year” commitment from the new fire chief.

In May, Daniel Spillman resigned from the position after being appointed in Oct. 2014; he replaced Verne Riggall, who also resigned after being under fire for how he had managed the agency from 2012-2014.

In a 2014 memo to the council, Spina addressed budding concerns about the direction of the department under Riggall’s leadership, saying there was a “clear lack of coordination and communication in Zephyrhills Fire Rescue” and “a clear sense of dysfunction and morale issues” that were affecting day-to-day operations.

Swartout, who said he was unaware of the past issues within the department, now oversees the 23-member fire rescue crew that responds to approximately 3,000 calls annually.

The new chief said the first few days on the job have been “a whirlwind” as he becomes familiar with the staff, the city, and other municipal departments.

Swartout said his initial duty is to build relationships with his staff before making any major department-wide decisions.

Zephyrhills Fire Rescue consists of a 23-member crew that responds to approximately 3,000 calls annually. (File Photo)
Zephyrhills Fire Rescue consists of a 23-member crew that responds to approximately 3,000 calls annually.
(File Photo)

“I’m more of the opinion that it’s important for me to sit back and observe, and listen…so I have a better idea of which way I need to go,” Swartout said. “I don’t believe in coming in anywhere and making (immediate) changes — I want to see what’s going on before I address anything.”

He added: “In my mind, I’m here to be supportive with what the guys do, and the message I’m telling them is that, ‘As the new fire chief, I’m here to support you and get you what you need.’”

With discussions already underway for the city’s 2016-2017 budget, Swartout said he likely won’t add much input into the fire department’s general fund, which reached $2.4 million in 2015-2016.

“I think I may be too late to have much of an impact into the next fiscal cycle, but what it does do for me is it does give me an ability to see what the needs are throughout the year and hopefully come back with some ideas or some solutions to issues,” the new fire chief said. “It actually works in my favor — I look at it as a blessing where I have time to learn and then move forward.”

During a council meeting in May, the city manager presented council members with several possible scenarios to consolidate fire services, and reduce operating and equipment costs. However, the council opted to keep the department and its two fire stations intact.

At the time, Spina noted there’s duplication in services with the city and Pasco County Fire Rescue, since the county also responds to all medical and fire calls.

Published August 24, 2016

No one hurt in Saddlebrook fire

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Quick actions by a student at Saddlebrook Preparatory School averted the potential loss of life, in the early morning hours of June 9.

About 2:30 a.m., the student smelled smoked and went searching for the source.

When he saw smoke, “he pulled the alarm. He started knocking on doors. His roommates went and knocked on doors. He called security, and security came down and they knocked on doors,” said Pat Ciaccio, general manager of Saddlebrook Resort Tampa, at 5700 Saddlebrook Way in Wesley Chapel.

It took 55 Pasco County Fire Rescue firefighters more than an hour-and-a-half to extinguish the blaze that broke out in the boys’ dormitory at Saddlebrook Preparatory School in the early morning hours of June 9. No one was injured, but the damage was extensive. (Courtesy of Pasco County Fire Rescue)
It took 55 Pasco County Fire Rescue firefighters more than an hour-and-a-half to extinguish the blaze that broke out in the boys’ dormitory at Saddlebrook Preparatory School in the early morning hours of June 9. No one was injured, but the damage was extensive.
(Courtesy of Pasco County Fire Rescue)

The resort has been home to an international school for aspiring professional tennis players and golfers since 1993. Ninety-six students, from 26 countries, attend the school, including 54 who board at the resort. While the school is for students from grade three through 12, it only boards eighth- through 12th-graders.

There were 28 students and two adults in the boys’ dormitory which caught fire, and everyone got out of the building without injury, Ciaccio said.

“We were able to get all of the students out actually, before there were flames. There was just smoke at the time,” Ciaccio said.

“From that point on, it turned into a three-alarm,” Ciaccio said.

Pasco County Fire Rescue Training Chief Shawn Whited said when the fire department crews arrived, “they had heavy fire through the roof of the building.

“As we were getting there, we realized there was a lot of fire there, so we called for a second- and third-alarm to help fight the fire,” Whited added. “The building was heavily damaged. The roof was burned off.”

It took 55 firefighters more than 1 ½ hours to put out the fire, and fire department investigators were still on the scene hours later, trying to determine the cause for the blaze, Whited said.

It turns out that the fire was started by a faulty bathroom exhaust fan/ bathroom heater mounted in the ceiling, Whited said.

No estimates were available on the extent of the loss, but Whited described the damage as extensive. “They’re going to have to gut the entire building,” he said.

On the afternoon after the fire, Ciaccio said, “Really, the extent of the damage — it’s too early — the adjusters aren’t even at the property yet.”

In the short term, the boarders from the boys’ dorm were relocated to the next courtyard.

“They’ll remain in there, those that stay for summer school, and then next school year, we’ll go back into there until Courtyard 11 is rebuilt,” Ciaccio said.

The general manager praised the students, resort staff and emergency rescue workers for their response.

The student who smelled the smoke “went into fire-drill mode,” Ciaccio said, explaining that the school and dormitories have monthly fire drills to know how to handle such emergencies.

“When your chief of security is calling you at 3 a.m., it’s not a good phone call. To arrive on property shortly after that and to have everything as buttoned down — you don’t ever want the tragedy to happen, but you feel good about the preparation,” he said.

“In an hour’s time, we had them (students) relocated to another courtyard, and they were in rooms, laying down,” he said.

He was particularly impressed by the way the students conducted themselves.

“They are in pressure situations all of the time on the tennis court, on the golf course. And, obviously that just extended into their personal lives, because they handled this situation so effortlessly.

“We were business as usual today. The kids were in class, taking exams,” Ciaccio said.

That is, except for the 28 who were in the dorm on the night of the fire. They were excused from exams.

Published June 15, 2016

Zephyrhills fire department remains status quo

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The Zephyrhills City Council has decided to continue operating the city’s fire department on its own and not to merge with Pasco County Fire Rescue.

Council members agreed unanimously to keep the status quo, ensuring the department will remain intact and continue to utilize its two fire stations.

Zephyrhills city manager Steven Spina presented three options to the Zephyrhills City Council regarding how to proceed with the structure of the city’s fire department. (File Photo)
Zephyrhills city manager Steven Spina presented three options to the Zephyrhills City Council regarding how to proceed with the structure of the city’s fire department.
(File Photo)

The council’s unanimous support for the department drew a standing ovation for its action, from several fire department employees and their families at the council’s May 23 meeting.

The decision came after Zephyrhills City Manager Steven Spina presented three potential scenarios for the fire department going forward:

  • Option 1: Maintain the status quo and continue to operate as a city fire department with two stations and current personnel. Also, immediately advertise for a fire chief to fill the vacancy.
  • Option 2: Begin discussions with Pasco County on the concept of consolidating the department with Pasco County Fire Rescue.
  • Options 3: Consider the option of closing one fire station — likely station 2 — and consolidate fire services into one station to reduce operating and equipment costs.

Spina outlined the pros and cons for each option, figuring it was a prudent time to have a discussion on the topic, especially with the department’s amplified $2.4 million budget and its frequent management turnover. The department has had three fire chiefs in four years, including last month’s resignation of Fire Chief Daniel Spillman.

While the city manager wasn’t looking for an immediate answer from the council, he was given one: they agreed that Option 1 was the top choice.

“I think the citizens that we serve deserve the top quality that they get by having their own fire department and their own police department,” Councilman Charles E. Proctor said. “I can’t see myself voting to eliminate the Zephyrhills Fire Department.”

Kenneth Burgess, the council’s president, concurred: “I feel like it’s insurance—you hope you never have to use it, but you’re glad it’s there.

“I’m a big proponent of the city fire department,” he said.

City council members unanimously agreed to keep operating both of the city’s fire stations, including Fire Rescue Station 2, at 38410 Sixth Ave. (Courtesy of City of Zephyrhills)
City council members unanimously agreed to keep operating both of the city’s fire stations, including Fire Rescue Station 2, at 38410 Sixth Ave.
(Courtesy of City of Zephyrhills)

A 2015 report compiled by the former fire chief shows that 1 percent to 2 percent of Zephyrhills Fire and Rescue calls are fire related, while 76 percent of all calls are medical in nature. Nearly 23 percent of all calls are cancelled within route.

Spina noted there’s duplication in services with the city and Pasco County Fire Rescue, since the county also responds to all medical and fire calls. The county is then responsible for transporting all medical patients to hospital care, which they’re required to do by state law.

As a result, 80 percent or more of all emergency calls are covered by both agencies, the report shows.

Despite the duplication, Zephyrhills Fire Lt. Mike Richards feels it’s crucial for the city to still have its own fully staffed fire department.

Richards addressed the council, acknowledging calls could be handled more efficiently and effectively with the county. But, Richards was quick to comment that his fire rescue team often arrives to the scene at least three minutes faster than the county, which he said is a significant timeframe, especially in emergencies such as a heart attack or stroke.

“A three- to four-minute window on a medical call can make a major difference,” said Richards, noting the city’s sizable middle-to upper-aged population. “Minutes count — and I mean even one (minute) to two minutes.”

Richards said the department’s personnel supports keeping the status quo, and rebuked the idea of merging fire services with the county.

“There is a community connection to having your own services,” he said. “The second you allow an outside agency to (handle services), you’re under contract, and if it doesn’t fit the contract, you pay extra or you start negotiating. You have no control, and it’s a detriment to your community.”

That was the feeling of many people present during the meeting, including Zephyrhills resident Sharon Reisman.

“I’d like to keep things in a small city local,” Reisman said. “I think it gives you more control. I know it would probably save a lot of money when you consolidate with the county, but I think when you have local firefighters and local people protecting their own city, they’re more interested in it; it makes the people feel better.”

While the report also shows that about 80 percent of calls are made in the northern tier of the city, the Zephyrhills fire lieutenant was also against consolidating operations into one fire station, which essentially would eliminate staffing for Zephyrhills Fire Rescue Station 2, located on Sixth Avenue.

“This city’s physical size is long, not super wide. I cannot get to a citizen in the south near as fast,” Richards said.

The meeting concluded with the council directing Dr. Spina to begin the search for a new fire chief.

“Well, Dr. Spina, I think it’s time to hire a fire chief,” Burgess said at meeting’s end.

Published June 1, 2016

‘Prom Promise’ drama aims to save lives

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The crushed beer cans on the grass help to set the scene at this assembly for students at Wiregrass Ranch High School.

As students pack the stands on one side of the school’s football stadium, they can see a giant black tarp — hiding a scene behind it.

Then, they begin to hear voices.

During the dramatization of a drunk driving accident, a Pasco County firefighter prevents Olivia Speer, 14, left and Vanessa Reyes, 16, from approaching the ‘dead girl’ lying on the hood of the opposing car. The dead passenger played by classmate, Emily Snider, 15, a sophomore, is sprawled on the hood of the car, ejected through the windshield because she did not buckle up. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
During the dramatization of a drunk driving accident, a Pasco County firefighter prevents Olivia Speer, 14, left and Vanessa Reyes, 16, from approaching the ‘dead girl’ lying on the hood of the opposing car. The dead passenger played by classmate, Emily Snider, 15, a sophomore, is sprawled on the hood of the car, ejected through the windshield because she did not buckle up.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

“St. Paul, I can’t believe you’re still drinking beer. How many beers have you had tonight?” his prom date asks. “I thought I was going to drive, if you were going to drink.”

“Babe, I only had a couple in the last hour or so. I’ll be able to drive,” St. Paul responds.

“I think maybe you should let me drive. You’re going a little fast. You’re starting to scare me,” his date continues.

“I’ll get us home fine,” he says. “If you’re so worried, why don’t you wear your seatbelt?”

“We’re almost home,” she responds, “and I didn’t want to get my dress wrinkled by wearing my seatbelt.

“Look out! There’s a car,” she shouts, and then begins screaming.

There are sounds of a collision, and the tarp is removed to reveal two smashed cars.

The drunk driver, bloodied, steps out of the car looking dazed.

Emerging dazed and confused from the crash, the drunk driver (left) St. Paul Allen, 17, a junior, and two occupants of the other vehicle try to make sense of what had happened during Prom Promise, a dramatization of a drunk driving accident.
Emerging dazed and confused from the crash, the drunk driver (left) St. Paul Allen, 17, a junior, and two occupants of the other vehicle try to make sense of what had happened during Prom Promise, a dramatization of a drunk driving accident.

The windshield of his car has been broken and his date is sprawled across the hood of the car.

She’s not moving.

The driver of the other car is trapped in her seat. Passengers in her car get out, their dresses spattered in blood.

As the scene plays out, Marianella Campos, a rescue training officer for Pasco County Fire Rescue, narrates what’s happening.

Calls go into 911 and emergency crews from Pasco County Fire Rescue, the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Highway Patrol, respond to the scene.

While a law enforcement officer administers a field sobriety test to the drunk driver, emergency crews use the Jaws of Life to free the other driver from her car.

A helicopter from Bayflite swoops in to airlift another victim to the hospital.

The deceased girl is covered with a sheet, on the hood of the car.

The stands on one side of Wiregrass Ranch High School’s stadium are packed with students watching Prom Promise, the dramatization of a head-on fatal drunk driving collision involving students attending prom.
The stands on one side of Wiregrass Ranch High School’s stadium are packed with students watching Prom Promise, the dramatization of a head-on fatal drunk driving collision involving students attending prom.

Meanwhile, the deceased girl’s mother, performed by Enid Fernandez, has been frantically looking for her daughter. When she arrives at the scene, she’s told by the passengers of the other car that her daughter is beneath the sheet. At first, she refuses to believe it could be her daughter. When reality sinks in, she’s inconsolable.

As the helicopter lifts off, another crew places the deceased girl in a body bag. She’s then moved into an ambulance, which represents a hearse.

Ten students, wearing prom attire and white face makeup, walk silently behind the ‘hearse’ as it rolls away. They represent those who have died from drunk or distracted driver incidents. They will remain silent throughout the day — to emphasize the losses that can occur because of careless behaviors.

The event, called “Prom Promise” aims to heighten awareness of the potentially deadly results of driving while impaired.

The timing was excellent because it was held on May 20, the day before Wiregrass Ranch High’s prom, said Greg Finkel, facilitator of the school’s Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) club.

“It’s going to hit home,” he predicted.

Students who helped to organize the event agreed.

A Bayflite helicopter assisted the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office and Pasco County Fire Rescue to simulate the reality of ‘what happens’ at an alcohol-related, crash scene.
A Bayflite helicopter assisted the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office and Pasco County Fire Rescue to simulate the reality of ‘what happens’ at an alcohol-related, crash scene.

“We’re using people that are well-known,” said Beliz Esen, a leader in the SADD club. “They’ll be able to empathize more, with someone they know, rather than someone they don’t know. As in, this is actually something that could actually happen to me,” she said.

Alexia Diamond, another SADD leader, said: “This actually happens every day. It’s not just in movies and TV shows.”

Jonathan Jerez, 17, also a leader of SADD, said the event will make a difference: “Being able to see the scenario, with people they do know, I think is going to change their decision making.”

Seventeen-year-old St. Paul Allen played the role of the drunk driver.

“This is such a serious thing,” he said. The event may not get through to some kids, but it will to others, he said.

The message is important, said 15-year-old Emily Snider, who played the role of the deceased prom date.

“A lot of people are lost. A lot of people die every year, just from regular car accidents. Coming home from prom, while drinking, it’s even more devastating,” she said. “They’re kids. They’re just kids.”

Victoria Stitcher, who played the role of the driver whose car was hit, said she knows that people will likely drink regardless of the dramatization, but she added: “I’m hoping that they’ll think twice and not drive.”

Olivia Speer, who played the role of a passenger in Stitcher’s car, said people tend to forget that those drinking and driving aren’t the only ones at risk.

“This can happen to absolutely anyone. It doesn’t necessarily have to be them that’s in the car drinking. It can be anyone,” she said.

Vanessa Reyes, another passenger in the car, agreed: “They think it won’t happen to them, but it happens so much. They need to see that.”

Kailee Barboza, another passenger, was glad to take part. “If at least one person decides that they’re not going to drink or text, while driving, we made a huge difference.”

The school’s two school resource officers, Cpl. Anthony Justice and Cpl. Patrick Cottrell, think the event will have an impact.

“If you have a real serious crash, this is actually what happens,” Cottrell said. “There may be somebody that does die. There are people that are flown out.”

Teenagers tend to think they’re invincible, Cottrell added. “They don’t understand how fragile life is.”

Published May 25, 2016

Rubber ducks create a splashing success

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The crowd cheered.

The loudspeaker broadcast a quacking-good tune – “Disco, Disco Duck.”

And, with a quick dumping of about 2,000 rubber ducks into Lake Padgett, the flock of ducks floated off, with a push from a high-pressure fire hose squirted into the water.

The rubber ducks, numbered on their underside, were adopted through donations. The owner of the duck that floated to first-place also won a bonus of $2,500. Some 68 prizes were awarded to the first ducks that floated to the finish line, out of a field of more than 2,000. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
The rubber ducks, numbered on their underside, were adopted through donations. The owner of the duck that floated to first-place also won a bonus of $2,500. Some 68 prizes were awarded to the first ducks that floated to the finish line, out of a field of more than 2,000.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

Prizes went to donors whose ducks were among the first 68 to hit the finish line. But, the true winners were the community organizations that will receive donations from the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon.

More than 100 people came to the service club’s Duck Derby on May 21. Held for the first time this year, it is intended to become an annual event.

The all-day affair brought out families that shared shady spots on the lawn behind Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que, off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

They enjoyed live music and dined from a buffet of Hungry Harry’s barbecue, beans, chicken, and macaroni and cheese.

Ducks could be adopted at prices ranging from $5 for a single duck to $100 for a flock of 25.

The inflatable Rotary International sign is reflected in the sunglasses of Geoff Kranich, a member of the Rotary Club of Trinity. Kranich helped Erin Meyer, president of the Wesley Chapel Rotary, install the inflatable sign at the entrance to the Duck Derby.
The inflatable Rotary International sign is reflected in the sunglasses of Geoff Kranich, a member of the Rotary Club of Trinity. Kranich helped Erin Meyer, president of the Wesley Chapel Rotary, install the inflatable sign at the entrance to the Duck Derby.

Marcey Knight, 16, and Abri Woods, 17, worked at a drink table, taking tickets and handing out cool refreshments.

The Wiregrass Ranch High School students are members of Interact, a school-sponsored club that provides opportunities for community service.

Children bounced in the bouncy house, slid down an inflated slide or played carnival-like games for prizes.

Sales of the rubber ducks, barbecue and drinks went toward community projects, organizations or student scholarships.

“We support a variety of charities every year,” said Erin Meyer, club president.

Local and international projects and groups that receive the club’s donations include Pasco Education Foundation, Everyday Blessings, Farmworkers Self-Help, Habitat for Humanity, Sunrise Women’s Shelter and installation of water filters in third-world countries.

Jimmy Mason, in the foreground, of the Wesley Chapel Rotary goes after an errant rubber duck that jumped the floating lane during the Duck Derby.
Jimmy Mason, in the foreground, of the Wesley Chapel Rotary goes after an errant rubber duck that jumped the floating lane during the Duck Derby.

In all, 68 prizes were handed out including a $2,500 grand prize to Brian and Isabelle Dunleavy. Other prizes included a fishing trip for five with a charter boat captain, two nights at Saddlebrook Resort, a $250 certificate for automobile repairs from TWA Firestone, a wine basket, pet grooming, and bowling games from Royal Lanes.

Derby sponsors included Fun Services of Land O’ Lakes, Sam’s Club, Cash 4 Gold, The Laker/Lutz News, and Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que.

The Wesley Chapel Rotary Club Noon hosts fundraising events annually to aid local community organizations or projects. The duck derby is expected to become a yearly tradition.

“Things like this allow us to have fellowship as a club and also to give back to the community,” said Kelly Mothershead, past president of the club.

Mike McDonald, of Trinity, was one of the performers at the Duck Derby held behind Hungry Harry’s Bar Family Bar-B-Que on U.S. 41. Held for the first time in Land O’ Lakes, it is expected to be an annual event.
Mike McDonald, of Trinity, was one of the performers at the Duck Derby held behind Hungry Harry’s Bar Family Bar-B-Que on U.S. 41. Held for the first time in Land O’ Lakes, it is expected to be an annual event.

Events like the duck derby create a presence in the community, said Rebecca Smith, chairwoman of the club’s foundation.

“We kind of touch everybody, and the more the merrier,” Smith said.

The Webelos of Cub Scout Pack No. 149 in Wesley Chapel helped build the duck derby course. They practiced their skills in tying square knots to link together the colorful noodles that marked the course’s boundaries.

“It was fun,” said 6-year-old Andrew Holliday.

His family bought a few ducks the day of the race, and enjoyed a picnic lunch.

“We just wanted to see what it was like,” said Brian Holliday, Andrew’s father.

Brother Connor, 5, sat in a lawn chair, with a plate piled high with his favorite food – mac n’ cheese.

At the shoreline, children waded into the lake, splashing and tossing small pebbles into the water. Or, they wandered over to climb inside the cab of the fire truck parked nearby. Pasco County Fire Rescue provided the hose and water to get the duck derby moving along.

At the derby’s finish line, club members plucked the winning ducks from the water and popped them into plastic bags for identification. Each duck had a number printed on its belly.

The disco dance tune “Disco, Disco, Duck” kept the festivities bouncing along.

“Wasn’t that adorable?” said Smith, who is already ready to join in the fun next year.

Published May 25, 2016

Yes, that really is Hambone Way

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Motorists driving past Hambone Way in Wesley Chapel may do a double take.

Is that road really named Hambone Way?

Indeed, it is.

William ‘Hambone’ Hammond has a street named in his honor in Wesley Chapel, a community the firefighter has served for about 15 years. Hammond accepted the honor with humility, thanking countless people in the crowd for helping him along the way. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)
William ‘Hambone’ Hammond has a street named in his honor in Wesley Chapel, a community the firefighter has served for about 15 years. Hammond accepted the honor with humility, thanking countless people in the crowd for helping him along the way.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

The road was christened during a ceremony on Feb. 20 with a moniker that pays tribute to William “Hambone” Hammond, a firefighter who has worked for 15 years at Station 13, in the heart of an area known as Angus Valley.

The road bears Hammond’s nickname — the only name that many firefighters and paramedics know him by.

During the formal naming ceremony, Hammond was clearly touched by the gesture.

As he looked out into the crowd, he saw his mother, Betty Hammond, his brother, Mark, and other friends and relatives.

Members of the Greater Wesley Chamber of Commerce were there, too, to do a ribbon cutting.

And, Hammond saw scores of his other ‘family,’ too, the men and women who work for Pasco County Fire Rescue.

As he accepted the honor, he kept calling out names of people in the crowd — and even some that weren’t there — to thank them for the lessons they’ve taught him and the loyalty they’ve shown.

“I don’t feel worthy. You all are more worthy than me,” said Hammond, who is still an active firefighter.

“I do love that my name is up there — my nickname — and it does belong here in the valley,” he said. “I had plenty of opportunities to go to other stations. I’m part of Wesley Chapel, part of Angus Valley. It’s where my heart is.”

Firefighter/paramedic J.J. Martinez, who helped organize the event, said Hammond deserves recognition for his dedicated service.

“When one hears this nickname, you would think of a guy on Harley, riding down the road with a long beard,” Martinez said, during the naming ceremony.

But when employees at Station 13 hear Hambone’s name, “we see a dedicated, hardworking firefighter that will do anything for his fellow firefighters,” Martinez added.

For some people, “Hambone was a firefighter who was there, in their time of need,” Martinez said.

“I came to serve this area six years ago, at Station 13, and I’m reminded every day what being a true firefighter is all about, because of my partner, Hambone,” Martinez added.

“Many times in this job, we lose sight of what is most important and that is the people we help every day,” he said.

Another speaker, Captain David Garofalo, said “when I think of Hambone, one word immediately comes to mind, and that is ‘genuine.’ That man never ceases to amaze me. He takes friendships to a whole new level.”

“This street has been the no-name street for many years, and Hambone has been a part of this community for almost 15 years,” Garofalo said, so it seems fitting to name the street in Hambone’s honor.

“So many times, buildings, statues and streets are named posthumously after someone in their memory. I am glad, that as we name this today, that Hambone will be able to know how much he is appreciated and be a part of this community for many more years to come,” Garofalo said.

Pasco Rescue Fire Chief Scott Cassin congratulated Hammond.

“There couldn’t be a better person to have their name on that sign,” Cassin said.

On the drive over to the ceremony, Cassin said he talking about how streets get their names.

“It’s usually the developer that will put names up, and they name them after their kids. They’ll name them after presidents, or they’ll have some sort of naming convention.

“This is one sign that I know every time we drive by it, we’ll know how that street was named.”

Published February 25, 2015