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Concerns raised about reopening
Union announces plan to seek injunction to block school opening By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The United School Employees of Pasco is raising concerns about the prospect of offering brick-and-mortar instruction when
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school begins, given current COVID-19 conditions. A post on the union’s Facebook page says that USEP “will seek injunction to prevent schools from opening for safety & health reasons.We do this to allow common sense to prevail and provide a virtual opening to this unprecedented school year.” Don Peace, the union’s president had
urged the Pasco County School Board and school district leaders at the board’s July 28 meeting for an online-only opening of school when classes begin on Aug. 24. “In light of the fact that Pasco’s COVID19 positivity rate is above 10% and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and See REOPENING, page 11A
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The Laker/Lutz News scores four awards The Laker/Lutz News received four awards in the Florida Press Association’s 2020 Weekly Newspaper Contest, announced in a virtual awards ceremony on July 31. Christine Holtzman won second place for photo series in one issue, second place for sports photo and third place for a story entry in the Outdoor and Recreation category. The Laker/Lutz News competed in the contest’s largest circulation category (13,000 and above). This year’s competition received more than 1,400 entries — the most in five years. Twenty judges from across the nation picked the winners. Above, in a purple and pink parachute, Gerry Austin soars through the clouds with her tandem instructor, Paul Wolfe. These are a selection of photos from Christine’s winning entry.
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After their first skydiving adventure together, the trio hold hands in celebration, as they walk back to the staging area. From left: Alvin Davis, Gerry Austin and Betsy Strickland.
Gerry Austin jokes around with a group of her supporters in the waiting area of Sky Dive City.
Voting during the time of COVID-19 New property Dr. Michael Craven “The area’s most highly reviewed Chiropractic office on Google”
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INSIDE, PAGE 1B
appraiser follows in father’s footsteps
By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
Supervisors of election in Pasco and Hillsborough counties both have reported how they will proceed with carrying out the Primary Election on Aug. 18, during the midst of a global pandemic. Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley has announced his office will be using safety measures in accordance with guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to ensure the wellbeing of poll workers and voters. In a news release, Corley said his office strongly encourages voters to consider voting by mail, but added voting by mail, in-person early voting and Election Day voting will be available. Early voting in Pasco is Aug. 8 through Aug. 15. The Pasco Supervisor of Elections also noted that those choosing to vote in-person should expect longer wait times as his office uses precautionary measures, such as limiting the number of people inside the polling room and continuous cleaning of equipment and surfaces. “With advanced notice, the expectation is that voters will be understanding and remain patient while waiting in line,” the news release adds.
By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer also has detailed his plans for in-person and Vote By Mail for the upcoming 2020 elections. “As always, we will offer no-excuse Vote By Mail, postage-paid return envelopes for Vote By Mail, and the maximum number of Early Voting days for Hillsborough County voters,” Latimer said, in a website posting. “And while some of our Election Day
Mike Wells will be stepping into the role of county property appraiser come January — after serving for more than five years on the Pasco County Commission, representing District 4. The elected leader will be following a path his father took before him. Mike Wells Sr., served two terms on the County Commission and went to serve 20 years as the county’s property appraiser, before retiring in 2016. Before the current commissioner becomes property appraiser, he has some unfinished business, he told members of the East Pasco Networking Group during its July 14 virtual meeting. Although “very, very excited to get started” in his new elected office, he’s currently focused on pushing for a 3% raise for the county’s 2,500 or so employees.
See VOTING, page 11A
See APPRAISER, page 11A
FILE
Local elections supervisors gear up for the Aug. 18 primary. Early voting has begun in Hillsborough County and begins soon in Pasco County.
Pitching in to create a lovely landscape Volunteers stepped up on July 18 to lay sod, plant flowers and help create a beautiful landscape for U.S. Marine Cpl. Timothy Read’s specially adapted, customized home in Wesley Chapel. The veteran will receive his home in a key ceremony scheduled for August. For more information, visit HFOTUSA.org/read. COURTESY OF TERESA FRANCE VERITY/HOMES FOR OUR TROOPS
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No slowing down for these women Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club individually continue to donate a stream of food and clothing to the St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry in Land O’ Lakes. Despite restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, these women go on with their service to the community through their many projects. From left: food pantry director Sharon Turner, and club members Marguerite Humet and Dianne Finn. To find out more about the woman’s club, visit GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org, or find them on Facebook.
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Seeking Super Bowl ambassadors The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
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The Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee has launched its Community Ambassador Program, according to a news release. The volunteer initiative seeks to provide an enthusiastic and warm welcome to fans, special guests and participants visiting Tampa Bay for Super Bowl LV in February 2021. In general, the idea is to roll out the red carpet, provide a high level of customer service and help create memorable moments that will have a lasting impact, the release says.
The host committee, as well as the NFL, will rely heavily on community support to help execute and elevate the overall event. More than 8,000 Community Ambassadors are expected to fill a large variety of shifts during Super Bowl week. “We are looking for individuals who are friendly, reliable, passionate, team-oriented, and eager to show off Tampa Bay during Super Bowl LV week,” said Lisa Urban, director of the Community Ambassador Program for the Super Bowl LV Host Committee. For more information, visit the Tampa Bay Super Bowl LV Host Committee’s official website at TampaBayLV.com.
NEWSP PA APE PEERS HA HAVE AVE V Y YO O BACK OUR We are grateful to those who have our baack during this crisis, especially our first responders and front-line workers. Our stafff is committed to keeping you informed on how COVID-19 is impacting your work and home life in Pasco and Hillsborough counties. We publish a new edition every Wednesdayy,, to keep you informed on how this crisis is afffecting you and your neighbors. These stories bring our communities togetherr, and give us hope thaat better days are ahead.
THANK YOU TO THOSE ON THE FRONT LINE We truly apprre eciaate your service.
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Lawmaker talks state budget cuts, COVID-19 By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
State Rep. Randy Maggard made a special appearance at a Zephyrhills City Council meeting last month — updating constituents on issues that included state budget cuts, the COVID-19 pandemic, return-to-school plans and more. During his talk, Maggard, who represents District 38 in the Florida House of Representatives, bluntly said East Pasco was fortunate to secure state funding for two projects. Those projects survived, while other projects fell by the wayside as a result of $1 billion in budget cuts, achieved through line-item vetoes by Gov. Ron DeSantis. The governor made those cuts because state revenues were lower than expected, due to the economic impacts of COVID-19. The approved $92.2 billion budget, however, does include about $5.5 million for the Lacoochee industrial area right of way improvements and about $2.3 million for intersection improvements at U.S. 301/Pretty Pond and Medical Arts Court. “We’re just happy to get what we did,” Maggard said.“At the end of the day, we felt we fared well compared to most (other districts).” Other budget wins in Maggard’s book included the $500 million to increase teacher salaries across the state and the approval of the most comprehensive water bill in Florida history. That water bill includes: $322 million for Everglades Restoration; $50 million for springs restoration; $160 million for targeted water quality improvements; $40 million for alternative water supply; and, $25 million to combat harmful algal blooms and red tide. Maggard said he hopes the state doesn’t need to undergo yet another round of budget cuts due to COVID-19, hurricane season or some other setback. Luckily, state reserves could help withstand some expected shortfalls, he said. Maggard said the Legislature’s foresight to build up a reserve in the past has come in handy now. He added:“What we’re praying is that we
COURTESY OF FLORIDA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Randy Maggard represents District 38 in the State House of Representatives. He spoke on a number of issues, during a special appearance last month at a Zephyrhills City Council meeting.
don’t have a bad hurricane season. Just having another knockout punch would not be good for our economy, and that’s what we’re concerned about, at the time.” On the COVID-19 front, Maggard acknowledged the pandemic “just seems to be dragging on,” but noted a sliver of a silver lining. The positivity rates for COVID-19 through Florida have hovered in the 10% range to 12% range, while experiencing marked decreases is some instances. Maggard said Florida made headlines across the country when it recorded nearly 15,300 new coronavirus cases on July 12.That set a national record for any one-day period.
What media outlets failed to mention, Maggard said, is about 142,900 people were tested — representing a positivity rate of about 10.7%. A few days before that, the state had reported 11,343 positive COVID-19 cases among 93,500 tests — correlating with a higher positivity rate of 12.1%, he said. “It was a big number that dropped, but we’re testing more,” Maggard said, regarding the July 12 report. “If you look at just the pure numbers, you would think,‘Wow, this thing is spreading worse, and we’re in trouble,’” he said. But, when “you look at it percentagewise,” he said, “it’s not growing like the
numbers sometimes show.” And, that, he said, represents “a little bit of good news.” The freshman lawmaker added the “largest spread” of the coronavirus comes from Florida bars and small breweries, so temporarily closing down those institutions was “just something that had to be done,” he said. He also acknowledged the economic impact the decision had. “It is affecting small business, and we understand that,” he said. Maggard also emphasized the importance of mask wearing and social distancing:“If you talk to your doctor, they will tell you. If we can just keep that practice, we can get over this hurdle, we really can just get it to stop. I think we can get out of this mess, and then we just need to pray for a shot like we do for the flu, then I’ll think a lot of this will just go away.” On the much-debated topic of return-toschool plans, Maggard assured state leaders are studying “the smartest way” to handle an ever-changing situation, adding decisions are “based on science and numbers, and not emotion.” However, he added there’s been “overwhelming” support to reopen brick-and-mortar school campuses for the 2020-2021 school year, particularly among Florida high schoolers. “It’s funny, the majority of high school students we’ve reached out to are like, ‘Yeah, we want to go back to school,’” Maggard said.“Maybe staying at home with parents is not as fun as it used to be at the time; high school students are definitely for it.” He also addressed one of the more welldocumented issues that surfaced early in the wake of COVID-19: the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity’s difficulty in managing the massive volume of unemployment benefit claims. Many of those problems have been resolved, Maggard said. “There’s some people out there we’re still dealing with, but overall that number’s dropping, which has been good for us,” he said.
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Your Community Calendar • Submit 2 weeks in advance to: news@lakerlutznews.com • All listings free of charge
VIDEO TUTORIALS
The University Area Community Center Complex, Computer Lab, Mort Park and Harvest Hope Park will be closed through Aug. 9.All programming, including the Dreamcatchers summer camps, has been suspended through this time.The Prodigy Cultural Arts Program instructors developed more than 40 video tutorials on topics such as life skills, painting, drawing, dancing and more. These videos are available at UACDC.org/prodigyonline. Also, Get Moving! exercise videos on body sculpting, yoga, nutrition for children, dancing for senior citizens, and more are free to the public and posted on YouTube at tinyurl.com/y8batzb9.
GARDEN CRAFT
The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host a virtual “Come Grow with Us” garden craft on Aug. 10, all day. Participants can make a garden craft that combines nature with art, using sticks from the wild with pompoms to resemble Glaucous willows.To access the video, visit Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary.
MARITAL BOOK CLUB
Saint Leo University theology professor Randall Woodard will host an online summer book club featuring “Undeniable Secrets of Marriage,” by Catholic author and speaker Allen Hunt.The book’s purpose is to help couples cultivate deeper levels of love, forgiveness and appreciation in the context of a Catholic marriage. Sessions will take place on three successive Mondays at 7 p.m., on Aug. 10,Aug. 17 and Aug. 24.There is no cost to participate, but those interested should send an email (with “Summer Book Club” in subject line) in advance to randall.woodard@saintleo.edu and request a computer link. Couples should get the book online at DynamicCatholic.com/the-21-undeniablesecrets-of-marriage-free-copy, and read it before the online sessions begin.
MAKE A WINE BOTTLE VASE
The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host a virtual craft class on making wine bottle vases on Aug. 11, all day. Participants can learn how to upcycle and decorate a vase, through a prerecorded video. Materials will not be provided.To see the video, visit Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary.
grade. Email emilyb@pascolibraries.org to request the Zoom meeting information.
Back to School Bash
The annual Back to School Bash previously hosted at Cobb Theatre in Wesley Chapel will now take place at Life Church, 6224 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel, on Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon. It will include backpack and school supplies giveaways. This is a drive-thru event. For guests who cannot make the drive-thru, there will be a wait station where someone will help retrieve the supplies needed. Those interested in partnering to donate items can email b4uresteeem@gmail.com. For those that would like to make a monetary donation, visit tinyurl.com/y57g8lrs, for various options.
Back To School Blast
The Tampa Bay Moms Group, along with TBMG Productions, Events & Expos will host a Back to School Blast on Aug. 8 from noon to 6 p.m., at the Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz. Free backpacks are one per child under the age of 13 and two per family maximum, and free books are one per child, all while supplies last. Featured exhibitors will include public, private, charter, home-school and educational resources; child care facilities; tutoring and extracurricular programs; health and wellness providers and products; special needs resources; community organizations; products and more. There will be giveaways and entertainment. The event is rain or shine, as long as it is safe to do so. There may be postponements or cancellations should it be deemed unsafe for health reasons. Visit tinyurl.com/yd8ofatt, for information.
Book bag giveaway
Operation Unwrap a Smile Inc., will host a free book bag and school supplies giveaway on Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park Recreation Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Due to COVID-19, the giveaways will be handed out at a drive-thru pickup, while supplies last. If you live in the Pasco County area, email unwrapasmileback3school@gmail.com for registration details.
VIRTUAL COOKING
The Regency Park Library will offer a virtual demonstration on Aug. 11 at 4:30 p.m., of how to make different types of pancake bites, to help your school year start off the right way. Follow the video that day on Facebook and Instagram @RegencyParkLibrary.
TEEN LIFE HACKS
The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host a virtual video on teen life hacks on Aug. 12 at 10 a.m., as part of a series of great things to know in life, big and small, that will help a teen become a well-prepared, independent adult. For information, call the Hugh Embry Library at (352) 567-3576.
VIRTUAL BOOK CLUB
The Pasco County Library Cooperative will offer a virtual “Taste of Sunshine” book club on Aug. 13 at 5 p.m., for grades six to eight. The club will start off with a graphic novel, “The New Kid,” available on Hoopla. Participants can download the book in advance and will be invited to read part of the book aloud at the virtual club meeting
(but, only if you want to). Register online at PascoLibraries.evanced.info/signup/calendar.
PEACE, LOVE, MUSIC
The second annual Spirit of Woodstock will live on, on Aug. 14,Aug. 15 and Aug. 16 at the Sertoma Youth Ranch, 85 Myers Road in Brooksville.The three days of peace, love and music will including children’s activities, a Pimp Your Pad Grooviest Campsite Contest, a Woofstock Hippie Hound Pooch Parade and Costume Contest, and live entertainment. Single day and weekend passes are available for sale. Hotel, RV and tent camping are optional. For more information, visit SpiritOfWoodstock.org.
ILLUSTRATOR PROGRAM
The Regency Park Library will host a virtual session about a new illustrator each week, on Zoom, starting on Aug. 15 at 3:30 p.m. The event includes the reading of a story that contains artwork by the featured illustrator, a demonstration on how to draw in the artist’s illustration style, and a period to share your own inspired illustrations.The program is for kindergarten through fifth
WATER WISE AWARDS
The 2020 Tampa Bay Community Water Wise Awards is looking for entries to this waterefficient landscape contest. If your landscape combines Florida-friendly plants, elements with attractive design and minimal maintenance, and uses efficient irrigation techniques that reduces water use, you can enter.Winners receive a custom garden stone, recognition by local elected officials, and neighborhood bragging rights..Applications must be submitted by Aug. 31. For information, visit Awards.tampabaywaterwise.org.
GREEN INDUSTRY TRAINING
The UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service will offer Green Industry Best Management Practices training on Aug. 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Extension Office, 36702 State Road 52 in Dade City.The program is designed for landscape professionals who apply pesticides and fertilizers commercially. Preregistration and prepayment are required by Aug. 16, online at bit.ly/GIBMP-Pasco2020.The cost is $30 for Green Industry Professionals and $20 for Pasco County School Board and Pasco County government employees.All participants must have a photo ID and prepaid ticket for admission. No refunds.Also, those in attendance must wear a face mask/covering at all times while inside, in accordance with the current Pasco County executive order. No food or snacks will be permitted.There will be a one-hour lunch break.
PHOTO CONTEST
Gulfside Healthcare Services’ annual contest to find photos to feature in its 2021 printed calendar is underway. Once printed, the calendars will be sold at the Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes to help raise funds for hospice care and other patient programs. Past calendars have featured iconic sights of the county, wildlife, sunsets and more. Each photographer can submit up to five photos. All photos must be taken in Pasco County and be sizeable for horizontal printing at 12inches wide by 9-inches high.To view the full list of entry guidelines and submit your photos, visit Gulfside.org/calendar-contest. Entry deadline is at 5 p.m., on Sept. 15. Winners will be notified by Oct. 15. Each winner will get five printed calendars, plus a gift certificate for any Gulfside Hospice thrift shop.
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The Kumquat Festival is attended by tens of thousands of visitors each year.
Kumquat Festival changes date By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com
In this unprecedented time of the COVID-19 pandemic,The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce and other Dade City officials have decided to move the 24th annual Kumquat Festival to March 27, according to a chamber news release. The festival, typically held the last Saturday in January, will be a spring event this year. “We felt it prudent to exercise extreme caution and move the date of the festival to ensure the health and safety of our attendees, our vendors, our sponsors, and the hundreds of people it takes to make this annual signature event a success,” John Moors,
executive director of the Dade City chamber, said in the release. The March 27 festival will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., in Dade City, around the iconic Historic Pasco County Courthouse. Admission is free. Shuttles will be provided from two satellite parking areas. As in previous years, historic Downtown Dade City will be transformed into an openair marketplace, featuring local businesses, hundreds of specialty vendors, an interactive Kids’ Corral, a car and truck show, dozens of partner sponsors, and the friendly, authentic Old Florida experience that the annual Kumquat Festival has come to represent. The chamber extends its thanks for past support and continued enthusiasm for the 2021 annual Kumquat Festival.
There is still time to help make Pasco count By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com
The United States Census has extended the 2020 Census self-response deadline to Oct. 31, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Census is a nationwide population count taken every 10 years, and an accurate count allows states to be fairly represented congressionally, and allows local jurisdictions a fair share of funding for programs and services that residents rely on. As of the beginning of July, Pasco County had counted about 60% percent of its households, according to a Pasco County news release. Pasco County’s goal is 100% participation, as it has seen exceptional growth over the past decade, and needs the funding to support the communities and citizens it serves, the release says. An undercount can result in millions of
dollars of lost federal funding Pasco County services, including libraries; schools and school meal programs; hospitals and health programs; housing assistance; fire departments; roads and highways; community centers; and public transportation. The Census survey collects basic statistical information. It does not ask for Social Security numbers, citizenship status, or any other sensitive personal information. Census responses are secure, confidential and protected by law – no personal information can be shared with anyone, including other government agencies. For additional security information, visit tinyurl.com/y74uu2ym. It takes about 10 minutes to answer the survey. The Census is available online at My2020Census.gov, over the phone and by mail, making participation easy.
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August 5, 2020
5A
Pasco Schools passes preliminary budget Budget approaches $1.5 billion mark
By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The Pasco County School Board has given first-round approval to a total school district budget approaching $1.5 billion. Superintendent Kurt Browning detailed some of the budget’s highlights, during the board’s first public hearing on the budget, held on July 28. The board approved the tentative tax rate and budget, following a public hearing.There was no public comment.The final public hearing on the budget is set for Sept. 15 at 6 p.m., in the board room at the school district’s headquarters, 7227 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Browning covered some of the budget’s high points.
The proposed total tax millage for 20202021 fiscal year is 5.922 mills, which is a decrease of 0.179 mills, Browning said. A mill equals $1 for every $1,000 of assessed taxable value. “Under the proposed rate, a homeowner of a $175,000 home, after the deduction of the $25,000 homestead exemption, would pay $26.85 less per year than last year,” Browning said. Olga Swinson, the district’s chief finance officer, explained the reduction. Each year, the state sets a required local effort amount that local districts are mandated to levy, she said.This year, it was 3.664 mills. Last year, it was 3.853 mills. “Had we been able to keep the same millage that we did last year, we would generate about an additional $6.3 million, in fiscal year 2020-2021,” she said, but that is not an option. The district’s proposed budget, a 7.3% increase over last year’s budget, includes a general operating budget of $699 million and a proposed capital budget of $415 million.
Pasco schools to require masks By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The Pasco County School Board has made it official: Students, staff and visitors must wear face coverings on school campuses and in district buildings. The board on July 28 unanimously adopted the emergency rule, proposed by Superintendent Kurt Browning. The rule has been described as being “temporary” and is accompanied by guidelines for implementation. School board member Megan Harding thanked Browning for proposing the rule.
“This is one more layer of safety for our students and staff, and visitors that come to our schools,” Harding said. She asked district staff to provide additional guidance to teachers, to help them handle situations that arise, such as students needing mask breaks. “I just hope we can give our teachers in school some scripted language that they can use from a social-emotional approach,” Harding said. She also appealed to parents: “Parents, we’re going to need your help. Please start now, teaching your child how to properly and safely put a mask on.
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“The district received additional funds totaling $24.1 million in state funding to accommodate a predicted growth of 1,933 students,” Browning said. The district’s proposed operating budget includes allocations and operating costs for the opening of Cypress Creek Middle School, and
mid-year expenses for Starkey Ranch K-8. The district’s budget also allocates funds to raise the minimum teacher salary to about $45,000, in accordance with Gov. Ron DeSantis’ requirement to improve teacher pay. It is not clear yet what kind of raises will be provided for other district employees. “Salary increases for additional instructional personnel and other staff will be provided as funding permits,” Browning said. “The proposed capital budget is $415 million, an increase of $73.5 million over last year, Browning said. Big-ticket items in that budget include the construction of Starkey Ranch K-8 and the construction of the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation. Other projects included in the capital budget include a new bus loop at San Antonio Elementary School, renovation and remodeling at Zephyrhills High School, cafeteria renovations, replacement of HVAC systems, infrastructure upgrades at various schools and lease/purchase of computers and school buses.
“For the little ones, make it a game. Start by wearing the mask for 10 minutes and then gradually increase the time. “For our older students, make it an appropriate fashion statement,” Harding said, noting she has seen many online stores selling masks in fun and fashionable designs. School board member Alison Crumbley underscored the fact that the emergency rule is temporary, and is subject to change, as conditions change. “We are carefully balancing the health and safety of our teachers and students, at this time, with student achievement,” Crumbley said, along with consideration for students’ social and emotional well-being. School Board Chairwoman Colleen
Beaudoin reiterated her support for requiring masks. “I made a commitment to our students, teachers and staff that I would support a mandate to require face coverings, in an effort to protect all members of our Pasco Schools’ family.” “I’m pleased there is the opportunity to give mask breaks, when social distancing can happen, and I hope we’ll be able to provide regular breaks to do just that. “Please keep in mind that this is temporary. If we can start with this in place and the public follows CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) guidelines outside of school, then we can help drive down the COVID numbers and lift this emergency rule,” she said.
Here's the district plan to spend the added $24.1 million: • $10.1 million is set aside for School Choice, including charter schools and scholarships • $4.9 million will go for retirement increases • $2.1 million will go for insurance increases • $3.3 million will be used for 68.91 staffing allocations for schools and 5.7 staffing allocations for the district • $1.2 million will go for specific academic program initiatives, including programs aimed at supporting educational equity • $500,000 will go for property insurance, utilities and School Resource Officer contract increases
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August 5, 2020
www.LakerLutzNews.com
When treating a heart attack or stroke, time is of the essence. Even during these times.
Don’t hesitate when it comes to getting emergency treatment. Even during a pandemic, you still need to be treated immediately if you have an emergency. Debating whether or not to risk going to an emergency room during a heart attack, stroke or other health emergency—waiting even a few extra minutes—could be harmful. That’s
why in all BayCare hospital emergency rooms, patients who have symptoms of COVID-19 are screened and treated separately. This helps keep emergency room patients and our team members safe. So if it’s an emergency, don’t wait. For more information: BayCareEmergencyCare.org
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www.LakerLutzNews.com
August 5, 2020
7A
RANDY UNDERHILL
A protest parade, intended to simulate a funeral procession, made its way down Beardsley Drive in Wesley Chapel, on a rainy afternoon on July 18. Those taking part included members of Black Lives Matter of Pasco County, Pasco Young Revolutionaries and Citizens Against Discrimination and Social Injustice. Marlowe Jones, of New Port Richey, president of Pasco Young Revolutionaries, organized the peaceful protest, in concert with the Pasco County chapter of Black Lives Matter and Citizens Against Discrimination and Social Injustice.
Symbolic funeral procession Members of Citizens Against Discrimination and Social Injustice, the Pasco County chapter of Black Lives Matter, and the Pasco Young Revolutionaries organized a peaceful ‘funeral procession’ protest on a rainy July 18 afternoon on Beardsley Drive near Meadow Point Boulevard, in Wesley Chapel. A procession was held, instead of a march or rally, because of concerns about COVID-19.The simulated funeral procession included a hearse, provided by Wilson Funeral Home, located in Tampa. The protest was meant to draw attention to black lives lost to police actions taken across the United States. The procession headed north along Bruce B. Downs Boulevard to State Road 54 and concluded at Walmart, at 28500 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel.
Maya King, left, and Christina Boneta, both of New Port Richey, display a sign representing Black Lives Matter. The women are affiliated with the Pasco County chapter.
Diane Scott, of Wesley Chapel, an advocate of Black Lives Matter, places a sign on her vehicle, while preparing to take part in the procession.
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Patients feel at ease and know they are in caring hands when they meet Dr. AndrĂŠs E. Guerra-Andrade, physician and owner of Oral Surgery and Implant Specialists/Facial Cosmetics of Lutz. As a highly trained oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Dr. Guerra has made a significant difference for the many patients he’s treated in the past decade. Oral Surgery and Implant Specialists/Facial Cosmetics of Lutz prides itself on providing the highest quality of care for its patients. One way it achieves this is by being a narcotic-free practice, which Dr. Guerra is extremely proud of. “We have a huge problem in the U.S. with addictions caused by narcotic prescriptions,â€? says Dr. Guerra. “Choosing to become a narcotic-free practice has made me the happiest oral surgeon in the town.â€? Dr. Guerra is a native of Caracas, Venezuela, and attended the School of Dentistry at the Universidad Central de Venezuela, where he received his doctorate degree. He completed his Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery degree and his Master’s in Dental Sciences at the University of Puerto Rico’s Medical Science Campus. It was never his plan to move to the United States, but ultimately Dr. Guerra and his family both decided it would be best for his career. “There’s a lot of political and social issues happening in Venezuela. It’s not easy being away, but at least now I can financial-
ly help my family back home,� says Dr. Guerra. In the summer of 2019, Dr. Guerra launched Oral Surgery and Implant Specialists/Facial Cosmetics of Lutz with his wife Denisse, a pediatric dentist who works alongside him. “Being able to have my own practice is the biggest career achievement I’ve had in my life,� says Dr. Guerra. Oral Surgery and Implant Specialists/Facial Cosmetics of Lutz offers a wide range of services, such as wisdom teeth removal, extractions, implants, diagnosis of oral cancer, eyelid surgery, facelifts and so much more. The practice also offers noninvasive facial cosmetic surgeries, such as Botox, fillers, microneedling, and skin-tightening procedures. “As we get older, our facial volume goes down,� explains Dr. Guerra, “We lose fat and our collagen becomes weak. These procedures help the patient decrease the speed of aging and improves their self-esteem.� Dr. Guerra is particularly excited about TempSure Envi, which is a nonsurgical skin-tightening treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to firm up loose skin on the face and body. The heat from the radiofrequency triggers the body’s natural reaction to produce new collagen, thus leaving the patient with a tighter, more youthful glow to their skin. To schedule a free consultation with Dr. Guerra, please go to OralSurgeryAndImplantSpecialists.com, or call (813) 609-4486.
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Steinbrenner High Female:Ava Lucke Sports: Flag football, soccer, track GPA: 7.1 SAT: 1290 College: Undecided
Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com
SCHOLAR-ATHLETES RECOGNIZED Hillsborough County Public Schools recently announced its 2020 High Schools Scholar-Athletes of the Year awards. Each public school in the county selected a senior male and female recipient for the honor. Winners received a plaque and $1,000. These are the recipients from county schools in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area: Freedom High Female: Bethany Booth Sports: Cheerleading, flag football GPA: 6.1 SAT: 1390 College: University of Florida
Male: Paul Foreman Jr. Sports: Cross-country, track GPA: 6.9 SAT: 1470 College: University of Florida Wharton High Female:Vanessa Lopez Sports: Cross-country, soccer, track GPA: 6.7 SAT: 1480 College: University of Florida Male: Zachary Godbold Sports: Football, soccer, track GPA: 6.1 SAT: 1270 College: University of Florida
The $5,000 scholarships are available to support eligible youth interested in starting a training program to kickstart their careers. Services available include: Career Exploration; GED Assistance; Employability Skills Training, including Financial Literacy; National Certifications for Workplace Training; Career Coaching and Guidance; Tuition Assistance for local schools; Limited Supportive Services; Placement Assistance through on-the-job training or Paid Work Experience. Some post-secondary training programs available include graphic design, pharmacy tech, HVAC, nail tech, welding, computer information technology, barbering, construction trades, surgical technology, dental assisting, or commercial vehicle driving, and more. Several apprenticeships also will be available. Registration for the sessions is online at CareerSourceTampaBay.com/job-seekers/youth. For information and questions, email youth@careersourcetb.com, or call (813) 930-7400.
CAREERSOURCE INFO SESSIONS
Male: Owen Barno Sports: Golf, lacrosse GPA: 5.97 SAT: 1240 College: University of Florida
CareerSource Tampa Bay has more than $500,000 to assist recent high school graduates, ages 16 to 24, to begin post-secondary training, paid work experience, or entrepreneurial training, according to a news release. In response to COVID-19, CareerSource Tampa Bay’s (CSTB) Young Talent of Tampa Bay program is hosting virtual information sessions, bi-weekly, to inform youth about the services and training opportunities available. Upcoming session dates are Aug. 5, Aug. 19, Sept. 9 and Sept. 23, all at 10 a.m. Eligible young adults need to be out of school, between the ages of 16 to 24, and be Hillsborough County residents.
Gaither High Female: Kateri Espinosa Sports: Swimming GPA: 8.4 SAT: 1380 College: Princeton University Male:Tyler Wilkes Sports: Golf GPA: 5.5 SAT: 1180 College: University of Florida
MEET THE TEACHER Pasco County Schools will host on-campus Meet the Teacher/Orientation events, specifically for students in transition years — prekindergarten, kindergarten, sixth grade and ninth grade. The in-person events will take place as follows: • Aug. 13 and Aug. 19 for sixth grade and ninth grade • Aug. 20 for prekindergarten and kindergarten Schools will communicate plans and schedules for students in all other grade levels. Check your school’s website for more details and any updated information. New families should contact schools to virtually enroll or to arrange an on-site appointment.
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Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) president Timothy Beard, Ph.D., earned nearperfect scores on his annual review, for a third year in a row, by the college’s District Board of Trustees (DBOT), according to a PHSC news release. Beard’s review was discussed at the July DBOT meeting. The nine-member College Board of Trustees gave him an overall average score of 4.90 out of 5, noting his excellent communications with the District Board of Trustees, community stakeholders, and administrators on the college’s administrative leadership team. Trustees board chair Alvaro Hernandez summarized the review comments in a letter to the trustees, noting that “Dr. Beard’s personal and professional demeanor have
positively impacted his performance as president and consequently facilitated the college being one of the premier institutions in the Florida College System. He exceeded performance standards in all areas of this evaluation.” The review is consistent with last year’s review that showed Beard’s strong marks in all categories. Beard’s average scores were close to perfect in all five categories included in the evaluation. He earned a 4.90 for board relations; a 4.89 for community, state and national relations; a 4.89 on fiscal accountability; a 4.89 for leadership; and, a 4.90 for accountability.The president’s overall average score of those categories in 2019 was 4.8, significantly up from an average score of 3.4 out of 5 in 2017. Beard’s equivalent scores on a percentage scale have been 94% in 2018, 96% in 2019, and 98% this year. Beard recently completed the second year of a two-year contract awarded in 2018 by the college trustees after demonstrating his ability to grow as a leader, embracing a style of leadership that promotes transparency, collaboration and clear communication. Hernandez recommended and the board approved a three-year contract for Beard to run through June 30, 2023.
EXAM PREP COURSE Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC), through the Continuing Workforce Education department, is offering new hybrid exam prep classes designed to prepare students to sit for testing to become industry-certified in a variety of fields. These online courses include: • Certified CompTIA A+ Professional: Sept 1.To Nov. 19, from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays • AIPB Certified Bookkeeper Professional: Sept. 3 to Nov. 19, 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.,Thursdays • Certified AutoCAD User: Sept. 10 to Nov. 9, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Mondays and Thursdays The hybrid courses offer a combination of online and face-to-face instruction, and were developed to provide technical training that directly responds to current industry demands. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act tuition funding is available through CareerSource Pasco-Hernando to qualified students. Classes will take place on the PHSC West Campus, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey, and on the East Campus, 36727 Blanton Road in Dade City, with most course content available online. For information, contact Karen Strouthopoulos at (727) 816-3123 or stroutk@phsc.edu. To register and pay online, visit PHSC.edu/academics/continuing-education, and select “Campus-based Continuing Professional Education courses.”
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This learning choice offers two days in person instruction along with three days of a fully mobile experience. You may choose to send your student to school on Monday and Tuesday or Thursday and Friday, with all other days receiving mobile.
Learning happens with live sessions delivered by our community mobile teachers. Learning continues as if they the are in the classroom with daily schedules and assignments. Lessons will be recorded to support learners with instruction on their schedule.
SAFETY GUIDELINES A T UPCA • Daily temperature checks • Weekly health screenings • Fever clinic • Mandator y masks for students, staff, and visitors • Gloves and emergency masks available as needed • Automatic hand sanitizer stations
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REOPENING, from page 1A Prevention) is recommending a 14-day downward trend, along with a positivity rate of 5% or less, USEP finds it troubling that we would contemplate a brick-and-mortar opening,” Peace said, during the board’s telephonic meeting. “We’re contacting legislators and other state officials to see what could be done to allow for an all-virtual reopening,” Peace said. “Our positivity trend is going up, not down. We closed schools at Spring Break, when things were not as bad as they are now. “For the Department of Education to order schools to open, in the current situation, is nothing short of reckless,” Peace said. “Sixty-seven districts in this state have elected school boards whose primary duty is to ensure public education is carried on in a safe and productive manner. Returning to brick-and-mortar right now, certainly is not safe.And, the interruptions caused when (COVID-19) test rates spike, causing virtual instruction, will most certainly not be productive for our students,” Peace said. He told board members that the union is exploring all of its options. “All we are asking for is some common sense and time for this to happen,” Peace said. He wasn’t the only one raising questions about the district’s reopening plan during the board meeting. Patrick Connolly, of Zephyrhills, said “teachers still don’t know if they’re going to be awarded MSOL (MySchool Online)-only positions, and therefore feel safe, or if we’re going to be required to be back in, and be unsafe.
“Because of that, a lot of people don’t know if they’re going to come back next year,” he said. Connolly also posed this question to the board and district staff:“What will happen in the next couple of weeks, when teachers are going to find out that their request for MySchool Online-only appointments are not being honored and people are being forced back into the classroom against their wishes, and decide at that point to take leave, resign or retire, leaving the school system with an insurmountable gap in teacher allocations that cannot be filled with even the remotest bit of experience at this time of year.”
WHAT ABOUT SICK TEACHERS?
Connolly also noted that symptoms described on the self-screening document that teachers are supposed to use are symptoms that they commonly experience. “If I follow the guidelines, what is the school going to do in terms of subs, when half of the staff is out after the first week for 10 days? Are we ready for that?” he asked. Another caller asked the school district to collect data through an anonymous survey to find out how many staff members are considering retirement, leaves of absence or resigning — and then to make those survey results public. The caller said the district needs to do a better job in its communications. Many parents are assuming that there will be smaller class sizes, if there are fewer students on campus, she said. But, the district has said that class sizes won’t be reduced, she said. Also, many parents are under the impression that social distancing will be done to the extent recommended by the CDC, which is not possible without reducing class sizes, the
Pasco's safety measures include: • Mandatory masks and/or face shields for poll workers • Availability of single-use styli for electronic signature pads • Optional use of reusable ballot secrecy sleeves • Hands-free check-in with Florida driver license and Florida ID cards via 2D barcode readers • Option to use personal blue or black marking pens to mark ballots • Available disposable masks for voters, which is strongly encouraged per the county directive and may be required at some voting locations • Social distancing while in line outside and inside the polling place • Minimization of touch point contamination through ongoing cleaning of surfaces, voting pens, voting machines, etc.
VOTING, from page 1A polling places are unavailable to us, the large majority have been confirmed and will be open. Hillsborough County will have 24 Early Voting sites, and during early voting, curbside tents will be outside each of those sites, for voters who wish to drop off a Vote By Mail ballot. Early voting in Hillsborough is Aug. 3 through Aug. 16. Vote By Mail ballots also can be dropped off at any of the four elections offices in
Hillsborough County. On Election Day, 239 locations will be open, which includes a loss of 21 locations that became unavailable due to COVID-19. Voters who will experience a polling change will be notified by mail, by Latimer’s office. Like Corley, Latimer expects in-person voting to take longer than usual because of safety precautions aimed at protecting voters and poll workers. For more information about voting in Pasco County, visit PascoVotes.gov. For more information about voting in Hillsborough County, visit VoteHillsborough.gov.
caller added. School board member Megan Harding said she knows that district staff is working hard, but said communications must improve. She said she’s still receiving multiple emails daily with questions she had previously raised to district staff. “Our schools are being inundated with questions that they don’t have answers to yet. And, I know that we don’t have the answers to everything yet, but I want to ask that we get those questions answered, and push out that information to our families and staff as soon as possible because school is starting around the corner, so I think it’s really important that we get that information out,” Harding said. Vanessa Hilton, the districts’ chief academic officer, provided some details about what the school day will look like for students in the coming year. MySchool Online teachers will do live lessons, have collaborative discussions, provide small group sessions and allow independent practice for students, she said. “Of course, we won’t have students behind a computer for six hours a day, but engaging in those various structures, as well as breaks. Recess.Their electives. And, all of the things you might expect,” Hilton said. “The curriculum for MySchool Online and traditional school will be the same. “Many of those structures that I mentioned for MySchool Online will also be part of the traditional model. You’ll see live lessons, collaborative discussions, small group sessions and independent practice,” she said.
“There also will be new things in our traditional model. Some things you’ll notice, like creating cohorts that stay together in elementary,” she added. Some things students may not notice, such as the fact that the district won’t be sharing recess equipment between cohorts in elementary.They’re also unlikely to notice the tasks handled by adults, such as the monitoring and disinfecting of equipment and supplies, the district leader said. At the secondary level, there will be some obvious changes, such as managed traffic patterns, no large congregations of students and reduced sizes of groups, she continued. There also will disinfecting of desks, materials, computers — between student uses, she added. “Some of those things won’t be noticed by students because students won’t be responsible for them, but some of them, of course, will be noticeable,” Hilton said. School Board Chairwoman Colleen Beaudoin said, “Each person on this board cares about our employees, their families, our students and our community. “I know that our teachers, staff and families are concerned about the risks of contracting COVID. We’re doing everything we can, within the parameters we’re given, to mitigate the risk. “I spoke with Mark Fox, head of maintenance, about different types of disinfectant wipes, products, filters, barriers, water fountains, bathrooms and so on. “He and his staff have investigated all possible ways to make our schools as safe as they can be,” Beaudoin said.
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APPRAISER, from page 1A
but noted a silver lining is the county has been able to test more than 700 people a day at three sites. The size of proposed raises has been a “That’s why these numbers are going up, sticking point for the commission in recent because the testing has gone up, which isn’t weeks, as County Administrator Dan Biles a bad thing,” he said. unveiled a preliminary budget calling for a Wells went on to acknowledge how 2% raise for county workers. some residents are upset with the county’s The county’s budget is taking a hit in the mandatory mask order for all indoor busiwake of a flattened economy nesses and county government due to the impacts of COVID-19. facilities. As a result, it can afford just 11 of He said he understands those 115 business plan initiatives feelings, to some extent. brought forth by its department “I know wearing masks isn’t heads, officials have said. fun,” Wells said. “I get it; I don’t But,Wells said it is “unacceptlike folks telling me what I can able” to provide less than a 3% and can’t do, but when it comes raise for employees. to this, I don’t want somebody “Even through these tough getting affected, or heaven forbid, times with budget cuts, there’s passing away on my conscience, nothing more important than so I try be as responsible as I can our folks,”Wells explained.“The and wear the mask when I can. state’s giving a 3% raise, the con- District 4 Pasco “I have my own opinion on stitutionals (county County (masks), but if you think you’re constitutional officers) say Commissioner sick, you should be wearing they’re giving a 3% raise, you Mike Wells them.” need to give a 3% raise, so I’ll be Meanwhile, Wells said he has fighting for that again. “a lot of ideas” for what he’ll do when he as“I truly believe there’s nothing more im- sumes the property appraiser’s role, now portant than the people.Take care of your held by Gary Joiner. team, and they’re going to take care of you, He said he wants to work on ways the ofso I’m really fighting hard for that,” he said. fice can improve partnerships with the Ongoing budgetary issues aside,Wells ex- sheriff’s office, code enforcement and buildpressed general satisfaction with how the ing inspections. county as a whole has worked together He said 2021 will be “an important year amid the coronavirus pandemic. to make sure everything runs right and runs Pasco has “done a lot of good things dur- smooth” as property appraiser, noting ad valing this tough time to help others,” such as orem taxes are paid in arrears in Florida. awarding small business grants, rental assisWells, who also is a Realtor, said he’s qualtance and food relief programs, he said. ified for his upcoming role. “I’m truly proud of the county,” Wells “I’ve got business plans and we’re worksaid.“I’m proud of how we’ve all come to- ing on some things, but it’s early,” he said, gether, through these tough times, that noting his current focus is on the work he’s we’ve made it positive. Helping more folks performing as a county commissioner. than we ever have, finding ways to do more When he becomes property appraiser, with less.” he said, residents can expect superb cusWells said he’s received calls every day tomer service. from residents and community members He said he has a lot of experience in that asking how they can help, donate and vol- department — having worked for 17 years unteer. in both sales and management for “I guess folks have a little time on their Enterprise Rent-A-Car. hands that are at home,” he quipped. Customer service is critical,Wells said. At the time of his talk, Pasco had regis“Through these trying times, if sometered more than 4,000 positive COVID-19 body comes in with a question, we should cases and 29 COVID-19 related death.Wells be bending over backwards to help them,” acknowledged those figures are “terrible,” he said.
Student-Centered “After dedicating 30 years to education and teaching countywide at the elementary, middle and high school levels including college, I’m ready to continue to serve you and your family on the Hillborough County School Board to ensure our children’s success.” – School Board Member Lynn Gray
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Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source
Local golf standout swings into senior year By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
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hen Norah Catlin showed up for Wiregrass Ranch High School girls golf tryouts in 2017, it wasn’t long before coach Jeremy Calzone realized a special talent had entered the program. The longtime Bulls coach originally wasn’t aware of the then-incoming freshman’s background winning countless junior tournaments; being named the Greater Tampa Junior Golf Association’s player of the year; qualifying for the Drive, Chip and Putt Championships at the Masters; and first picking up the sport at the age of 4. Moreover, the timing couldn’t have been better. The team had just graduated a strong senior class buoyed by Morgan Powers, Alexis Lane and Lexy Frenchko. With that, Calzone figured the 2017 season would be a retooling year.“We were like, ‘Man, it’s going to be a struggle this year,’” he recalled. Little did the coach know the most accomplished female golfer in school history had walked in the door, and she’d guide the program to three straight conference championships and district titles. At tryouts when Calzone asked which of the newcomers had ever golfed before, Catlin meekly raised her hand, speaking softly without much conviction. Assuming she was mostly a novice with the sport, Calzone unwittingly placed her with a beginner’s group, instead of with some of the team’s more experienced returnees. He soon discovered a mistake was made. “It took me two shots to realize,‘Ok, you need to be in that (top) group with those other girls…,’” Calzone chuckled.“I joke with her all the time, like, ‘You could’ve told me you were like one of the elite players in the area.’ …It was a good surprise to have, obviously.” The rest is history. “She’s definitely by far the best (player) we’ve had,” Calzone said of Catlin. Since entering the Wiregrass Ranch hallways, Catlin has laid claim to the county’s top female golfer. She is a three-time Sunshine Athletic Conference Player of the Year and three-time state qualifier. During her freshman year she became the first female golfer in school history to qualify for the state finals, held annually at the Mission Inn Resort & Club, in Howey-in-theHills. As a junior last year, Catlin finished tied for 17th at the FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) Class 3A state championships, firing five-over par (74-75—149) across the two-day tournament. It represented the best showing among female golfers from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.The next top score among locals was Steinbrenner High’s Posie Farrelly, who carded nine-over par (79-74 — 153) Entering her senior campaign, Catlin is looking to build on her past accolades and then some, if and when the already-delayed Florida prep sports season gets underway due to COVID-19. In addition to trying to secure top county honors and a strong state finish a fourth time, her main goal is to finish undefeated in the dozen or so regular season matches scheduled.
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THIS OUT
FHSAA DELAYS FALL SPORTS START DATE
The Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) postponed the start date of fall sports until Aug 24, after FHSAA Board of Directors last month voted 11-4 to do so. The move comes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The association's supervises and regulates interscholastic athletic programs for high school students at member public, private and charter schools. Headquartered in Gainesville, it is the official governing body for interscholastic athletics in Florida. FHSAA staff is working to come up with alternate plans for the 2020-2021 school year and will present such a plan to the board during the week of Aug. 10. In corresponding action, the Pasco County school district has gone a step further — an-
COURTESY OF KIM CATLIN
Wiregrass Ranch High School rising senior Norah Catlin stands alongside head coach Jeremy Calzone at the 2019 Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) state championships. As a junior last year, Catlin finished tied for 17th at the Class 3A championships, firing five-over par (7475—149) in the two-day tournament. Wiregrass Ranch High School rising senior Norah Catlin is one of the area’s most accomplished prep golfers. She’s seeking her fourth consecutive Sunshine Athletic Conference (SAC) Golfer of the Year award, along with her fourth state finals appearance. Catlin also holds the designation as the first female golfer in school history to qualify for the state championships.
Norah Catlin said one of her main goals as a senior is to be undefeated in all regular season matches. She’d been close to achieving that feat in the past.
“It’s something that I’ve gotten very close to the last three seasons. I want to be able to do it at least once before my high school career is over,” she said. Catlin, too, hopes her accomplishments inspire her younger teammates and the next generation of female golfers:“Honestly, I really hope somebody sees what I’ve done and wants to beat it, because that’s how you get better.”
‘A MENTAL GAME’
On the course, Catlin takes pride in her short game, particularly her chipping ability. It was a skill she began mastering at a young age, using her family’s backyard to practice various angles and distances. To shore up her accuracy, Catlin’s father would give her $1 every time she hit a tree from a particular position.“We had to stop that very quickly because I’d bankrupt him,” she quipped. Catlin’s chip shot proficiency, too, has awed Calzone over the years: “It’s crazy, she’ll be five or 10 feet within the pin, ready for birdie almost every time, and if she’s not, it’s almost like you’re shocked, you know.” The mental side of the game is another of Catlin’s strengths. She makes a point to not let a bad shot or two ruin an entire round — a common theme for some golfers. Instead, she tries to stay level-headed and keep her composure throughout. Catlin detailed her mindset:“The biggest mistake that some golfers make is when they hit one bad shot, they get very upset, because they think their day is ruined, whereas their attitude towards the situation
nouncing it has pushed back the beginning of all fall sports to Sept. 7, meaning tryouts for all middle school and high school sports won’t begin until then. The Hillsborough County school district moved the start of its fall sports season to Aug. 10. Fall sports affected include bowling, crosscountry, football, golf, swimming and diving, and volleyball.
SAINT LEO FALL SPORTS POSTPONED
Saint Leo University’s member athletic conference — the Sunshine State Conference (SSC) — announced it has postponed all scheduled competitions in the fall sports season, due to COVID-19. The decision, made by the SSC Presidents Council, affects men's soccer, women's soccer, men's cross-country, women's cross-country, and women's volleyball. It also affects any fall schedules for the spring sports of men's lacrosse, women's lacrosse, men's tennis, women's tennis, men's golf, women's golf, baseball, softball, and women's rowing.
is what ruins their round. By keeping a level head and telling yourself,‘Golf is a game, at the end of the day,’ it’s a lot easier to hit the next shot and bounce back.”
BETTER PREPARED
Each summer, Catlin travels to St. Petersburg, Russia, to visit family members on her mother’s side. Catlin doesn’t pick up a golf club during that period, which admittedly leaves her rusty for a couple weeks in advance of the season. The pandemic, however, cancelled the teen’s annual Russia trip. From a golfing standpoint, it could prove a blessing in disguise. That’s because she has used the extra downtime in town to hit the links with more fervor — and should yield a more polished version of herself by the start of the season, whenever that is. “I think all this extra practice that I’ve been able to do is really going to help me,” Catlin said, adding she’s fortunate golf courses have stayed open during the pandemic, as the sport’s been deemed an essential recreational activity by state and local governments. “It’s been nice to still have my sport running, and it gives me something to do every day.” More prepared than usual for the start of a season, Calzone acknowledged Catlin could put forth her best showing of her prep career. “If she’s been playing all summer, look out,” the coach said.“She’s never disappointed me, so my expectations are always pretty
A news release says another decision will be made no later than Oct. 1 regarding whether the winter sports of men's basketball, women's basketball, men's swimming, and women's swimming can compete in the fall 2020 semester. As of now, the conference is planning to conduct competition for the fall sports and the spring sports in the spring 2021 semester. During postponement of competition, student-athletes will be able to do conditioning, strength training, and have other practice opportunities in all sports during the fall 2020 semester — as long as health and safety conditions allow such activities. Saint Leo is one of 11 member institutions in the NCAA Division II Florida-based conference. Other Tampa Bay area schools in the SSC include Eckerd College (St. Petersburg), Florida Southern College (Lakeland) and the University of Tampa.
SAINT LEO MEN’S HOOPS ALUM GOES PRO
Saint Leo University men’s basketball recent graduate Kyran McLure has signed an
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August 5, 2020
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high for her, because I know what she’s going to do.”
PROMISING FUTURE AWAITS
Catlin has multiple offers to golf collegiately, but she hasn’t yet decided if that’s a path she’ll take. One of the top students in her senior class with a 4.5 GPA who takes a heavy dose of Advanced Placement (AP) and dual-enrollment classes, Catlin aspires to study political science in college and attend law school. She also is passionate about environmental issues, recently completing an online environmental justice fellowship amid the pandemic. Studying abroad in Russia and becoming fluent in the language are some other lofty objectives. When it comes to higher education, Catlin said, “I just want to focus more time on my school and focusing on my GPA.” In either case, golf will still be a lifelong hobby for her, whether she’s playing competitively or not. “It’s definitely going to be in my life, probably for the rest of my life,” Catlin said. “I genuinely like it because it gives me time alone, time to think, and it’s as much of a mental game as it is a physical game. …Also, it’s just a nice way to get fresh air.” Whatever Catlin winds up doing, Catlin’s high school coach is sure she’ll find success. “She’s just an unbelievable person,” Calzone said.“She’s just a great, all-around person. Her grades, she’s very polite, she’s well-liked by all the teachers, the kids at school. Just a great, unbelievable person. I mean, she’s unbelievable at golf, but I think she’s just an unbelievable, allaround student-athlete.”
overseas professional contract with Omladinski Kosarkaski Klub (OKK) Novi Pazar, a Serbia-based basketball club. The 6-foot-2, 170-pound guard led Saint Leo in scoring the last two seasons, including averaging 20.8 points per game in 2019-2020 and 17.1 in 2018-2019. McClure, a two-time All-Sunshine State Conference selection, ranks inside the top 10 in Lions history in three career categories — free throws made (second, 451), three-point field goals made (fourth, 193), and assists (ninth, 276), while sitting in 11th all-time in points scored (1,374). He also holds two program records for a single season mark, including free throws (207) and three-pointers made (96), both set during his senior season. McClure played three seasons for Saint Leo, transferring from Navy after his freshman year. He is a native of Concord, North Carolina. McClure joins an overseas club that is coming off a 17-9 record Basketball League of Serbia, along with an 8-14 mark in ABA (Adriatic Basketball Association) League 2 play.
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AU G U S T 5 , 2 0 2 0
School projects address district needs Construction work includes new schools, expansions and updating buildings By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
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global pandemic has cast uncertainty regarding what will happen in the coming school year, but the work goes on to build, expand and renovate schools in the Pasco County school district. Rapid growth in recent years has caused school crowding.And, anticipated residential construction has created a need for schools in previously undeveloped areas. Across the district, enrollment is expected to increase by slightly more than 1,900 students for this coming school year, and that includes charter schools, according to Chris Williams, director of planning for the school district. It remains unclear if that projection will come to fruition, in light of impacts from COVID-19 on residential construction. The district’s enrollment will grow — but, it’s not clear how much,Williams said during a school board workshop on the district’s capital improvement plan. Numerous projects are planned in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area, according to Williams’ presentation. The planning director also provided an overview of schools expected to face another crowded year in 2020-2021. Williams said he expects Odessa Elementary to be “just slammed full,” for the upcoming school year.“I don’t know (if) we could put any more students there,” he said. “Fortunately, the relief for Odessa Elementary is the Starkey Ranch K-8, which will open, of course, next year. So, Odessa, we’re just working with them to get them through this coming year. “Oakstead Elementary continues to be a little bit over capacity. “I don’t know how much opening Starkey K-8, as mostly a magnet, will impact Oakstead (Elementary), but certainly it could have some impact on Oakstead Elementary, as well. “Connerton (Elementary) continues to be over capacity,” he said. But, he said, Connerton is experiencing “slow growth,” so the district will monitor the situation. Wesley Chapel Elementary is expected to be slightly over capacity, but two new charter schools opening this year in Wesley Chapel — Pinecrest and Innovation Preparatory (inPrep) — are expected to have an impact, Williams said. At the middle school level, the construction of Starkey K-8 will provide relief to River Ridge and Seven Springs middle schools, and also will likely have some impact on Rushe Middle School, too,Williams said. A magnet 6-12 school will be opening in 2023, in the upcoming Angeline development in Land O’ Lakes, Williams said. He expects that to have an impact on Pineview and Rushe middle schools, and perhaps on River Ridge Middle, too. “By then, Ridge Road will be complete,” the planning expert said, creating access to the new 6-12 school from all of those areas. “Finally, after many years, we finally provide some relief to John Long Middle, with the opening of Cypress Creek Middle,” Williams added. “Weightman Middle certainly is in a growth area,” he said, but added that charter schools in the area are expected to have an impact. Williams added:“Also, we are planning in 2024 to open a magnet school, K-8, over in Wesley Chapel that also will provide relief to some of those schools.” At the high school level,Williams said additional capacity was added to Land O’ Lakes High School during its renovation. A new classroom wing added to Sunlake High School
B.C. MANION
Cypress Creek Middle School in Wesley Chapel will have its inaugural first day of school when the 2020-2021 school year begins.
B.C. MANION
Construction is underway at the Starkey Ranch K-8 School, near the intersection of Long Spur and Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa. The project, which includes private and public partners, will feature a school, a library and a cultural center, next to a district park. The public will be able to take advantage of the library, cultural center and park.
FILE
Sunlake High School in Land O’ Lakes also has a new classroom wing this year, to accommodate enrollment growth.
FILE
An additional classroom wing has been added to Bexley Elementary in Land O’ Lakes, to increase its capacity to meet growing enrollment needs.
COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY SCHOOLS
This is what the Land O’ Lakes High School main entrance looks like, now that a massive makeover at the school has been completed.
Significant milestones, 2019-2020
Significant projects, 2020-2021
• Completed design work, began construction on classroom wings at Bexley Elementary, 4830 Ballantrae Blvd., and Sunlake High School, 3023 Sunlake Blvd., both in Land O’ Lakes • Completed remodeling at Land O’ Lakes High School, 20325 Gator Lane, in Land O’ Lakes • Completed construction of Cypress Creek Middle School, 8845 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel • Completed design and under construction of Starkey Ranch K-8 School, near the intersection of Long Spur and Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa. It will open in 2021-2022 school year. The sister facility is the Starkey Theatre, Library and Cultural Center, also under construction. • Completed phase two of remodeling of Zephyrhills High School, 6335 12th St., in Zephyrhills • In design for the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, planned for construction at Curley and Keifer roads in Wesley Chapel
• Classroom wings ready for occupancy at Bexley Elementary, 4830 Ballantrae Blvd., and Sunlake High School, 3023 Sunlake Blvd., both in Land O’ Lakes • Work will continue until completion on Starkey K-8 and Theatre, Library and Cultural Arts Center. The school is expected to open in August 2021. • Remodeling expected to be completed this year at Zephyrhills High, 6335 12th St., in Zephyrhills • Construction will begin on Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, at Curley and Keifer roads in Wesley Chapel. The school is slated to open in August 2022. • Visitors football stands ready for football season at Pasco High, 36850 State Road 52 • Design work will begin on a new 6-12 Academy, slated to be in the Angeline development in Land O’ Lakes • Construction on bus loop at San Antonio Elementary, 32416 Darby Road in Dade City
will be ready for occupancy this year. A new wing added to Bexley Elementary also is ready for the 2020-2021 school year. The future 6-12 school in Angeline also will increase enrollment capacity in the Land O’ Lakes area,Williams said. The opening of Cypress Creek Middle
School this fall, will have a ripple effect on enrollments. First, it allows Cypress Creek High School to house additional students in grades nine through 12, while Cypress Creek Middle School serves students in grades six through eight.
B.C. MANION
Construction continues on a remodeling project at Zephyrhills High School.
The additional capacity at the high school allows the school district to relieve crowding at Wiregrass Ranch High. The new middle school allows the district to relieve crowding at John Long Middle. Wiregrass Ranch won’t feel the full impact for a couple years,Williams said, because the district grandfathered this year’s juniors and seniors at Wiregrass Ranch. And, of course, the planning director said, the Wiregrass area is still experiencing growth. He also noted that Pasco High is over capacity.The area, however, isn’t experiencing much growth. The district is evaluating projects that could add capacity at Pasco High in the future, he said. Zephyrhills High’s capacity is being increased through a project now in progress at the school, he added. When The Innovation Academy at Kirkland Ranch opens, expected in 2023, it likely will have a significant impact on enrollments in schools on the district’s east side, he said. Besides work that has been wrapped up recently, is underway, or on the drawing board — the district also has been securing sites for future schools. Previously, the district has found itself in the position of being unable to find affordable land for schools, Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd told school board members. It has resolved that issue, he said. “As a district, we are in tremendous shape when it comes to land to build schools,” Gadd said.
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A cross-country trip for Coco
Coco is a Yorkie that loves to travel. She spent three months on a cross-country adventure that included 22 states, 11 national parks, six national monuments, countless roadside attractions, hotels and campgrounds. Coco rides in between the front seats of her owner’s motorhome, in her bed. She is always ready for a road trip (and is probably planning another one) and loves the car rides. Coco lives with her proud owner, George Capaz, in Wesley Chapel.
PET OF THE WEEK FAMILIES RECEIVE A $30 GIFT CARD TO CHUY’S TEX MEX. Email to mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, ATTN: Pet of the Week
An unusual visitor Sharon Thompson noticed this moth on the outside of her lanai screen, at her home in Country Walk, in Wesley Chapel. Its common name is rustic sphinx, a moth in the Sphingidae family. These moths are called hawkmoths and the caterpillars are often referred to as hornworms, due to the hornshaped protuberance found on the insect’s posterior end.
PET PAWS AMBERJACK SEASON REOPENS
COURTESY OF CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM
NEW HABITAT FOR DOLPHINS
Clearwater Marine Aquarium fulfilled its 14-year vision to provide a new habitat for Winter the Dolphin.The 1.5 million-gallon habitat was developed to provide state-ofthe-art care for the aquarium’s resident dolphins, and is part of the $80 million expansion effort currently underway. Winter and her friends — Hope, PJ, Nicholas and Hemingway all have moved recently to their new home.The primary viewing window is 40 feet high, 14 feet wide and 12.5 inches thick. Sitting on Clearwater Bay, this habitat also will provide guests with incredible underwater viewing opportunities. Above, Rudolph (Rudy), a rough-toothed dolphin, was welcomed as a new resident at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
The recreational harvest of greater amberjack reopened in Gulf state and federal waters on Aug. 1.The season is scheduled to remain open through Oct. 31. Fishing for greater amberjack in state or federal waters from a private recreational vessel (includes anglers older than 65 years of age), requires signing up as a State Reef Fish Angler prior to a fishing trip. Sign up as a Gulf Reef Fish Angler at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com. For more information on the regulations for greater amberjack, visit MyFWC.com/Marine, and click on the “Reef Fish” tab, and then “Recreational Regulations” and “Greater Amberjack.”
NEW SPECIES GUIDELINES
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved Species Conservation Measures and Permitting Guidelines for seven of the more than 50 species in Florida’s Imperiled Species Management Plan. Staff created new guidelines for the Florida mouse, gopher frog, Suwanee cooter, mangrove rivulus, and Lower Keys populations of red rat snake, striped mud
turtle and peninsula ribbonsnake. These seven species were removed from the list in 2017 because their populations are healthy, and all seven will benefit from the new species guidelines. Existing guidelines for the state-threatened Florida pine snake also were updated. Species guidelines are designed for landowners, consultants, agency partners and other interested parties on how to conserve these species, including recommended conservation measures and survey methodologies. Options are offered for avoidance, minimization and mitigation of take, too. For an overview of how Florida conserves imperiled species, please visit MyFWC.com/Imperiled.
FLOUNDER REGULATIONS
At its July commission meeting, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved draft changes to the management of the state’s flounder fishery. These changes will be in front of the commission in October for final consideration.
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A stock status update suggests that the flounder fishery statewide has been in a general declining trend in recent years, and is likely overfished and undergoing overfishing on the Atlantic coast of Florida. The commission has been working with stakeholders to gather input on this fishery through workshops, online commenting and more. Draft rule changes include: • Increase minimum size limit from 12 inches to 14 inches total length (recreational and commercial) • Reduce recreational bag limit from 10 fish to five fish per person • Establish a November closure (recreational) • Establish a commercial trip and vessel limit to 150 flounder when using allowable gear for all months outside of November • Establish a November commercial trip and vessel limit of 50 pounds when using allowable gear • Extend all FWC flounder regulations into federal waters The commission also directed staff to continue working with the industry on flounder bycatch in federal waters. To share your input, visit MyFWC.com/SaltwaterComments.
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CITIZENS’ ACADEMY APPLICATIONS
Send business news to news@lakerlutznews.com
BE A BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT WEEK PRESENTER The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce is making an open call for programs for its 28th annual Business Development Week, scheduled for Jan. 25 through Jan. 29, 2021. The week offers professional development opportunities, networking activities, seminars and resource sharing for businesses of all sizes. There will be presentations in standalone sessions, breakfasts and luncheons. The theme will be “Pathways to Success.” Speaking topics this year are human resources, social networking, technology, marketing and health care. Those who wish to be considered for participation can get details on slots and other information by contacting the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (727) 842-7651, (813) 909-2722, or chamber@greaterpasco.com.
If you would like to get an immersive look at how Pasco County government works, apply by Aug. 10 to become a member of the Pasco County Citizens Academy. This program, being offered for the 10th time, is an educational and entertaining program that gives participants a chance to learn the ins and outs of government through inperson and virtual meetings. The program will follow the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Florida Department of Health social distancing guidelines. The program includes 10 sessions, which begin in September, with a graduation set for December.A winter session of the program also will be offered, beginning in January, 2021. Apply by completing an online application: bit.ly/CitizensAcademyApp.
Raining Berries, a business that opened its first corporate store in Lutz, is bringing its premium açaí bowls, fair trade coffee, and artisanal teas to four more Tampa Bay locations in St. Petersburg, Westshore, Clearwater and the University of South Florida area, according to a news release.The four new locations represent a $2.6 million investment, the release says.
agreed to numerous conditions, and by the time the land use and zoning changes were approved, no one spoke in opposition. • An ordinance that requires people to maintain improved properties by keeping the grass mowed to a height of no more than 8 inches. The ordinance was prompted by complaints about an inactive golf course. • A reduction in setback requirements for Land O’ Lakes Moose Lodge, No. 1903 Loyal Order of Moose Lodge, on the west side of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, one-fourth mile north of Asbel Road. Plans call for developing the 1.97-acre site into a fraternal lodge. • An interlocal agreement with the Town of St. Leo to install and maintain a speed table on Dunne Road.Work is expected to be completed within 18 months. • A request by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc., for on-site consumption and package sales of beer and wine, at the store, located on the south side of Oakley Boulevard, approximately 650 feet east of the intersection of Wesley Grove Boulevard and Oakley Boulevard. • A change order relating to the construction of the East Pasco Fleet/Transit facility, extending the completion date to Aug. 3. • A resolution to notify the public of the county’s proposed solid waste rate increase of $7 per equivalent residential unit (single-family) for fiscal year 2021; there’s also a proposed increase in tipping fees of $6.39 per ton for fiscal year 2021. • Agreed to extend the time to complete the installation of a generator for the pharmacy and medical flooring for the clinic at Good Samaritan Health Clinic of Pasco Inc.The new deadline is Sept. 30, 2021. • Promoted Brian Hoben to the position of community services director. Hoben had been serving as the public services administrator and as interim community services director.
RECENT COUNTY APPROVALS
ACHIEVA CREDIT UNION
The Pasco County Commission has approved numerous actions during recent weeks, including: • A land use change and rezoning clearing the way for a 218-unit townhouse development on 45.52 acres, off Little Lake Thomas, off U.S. 41. Initially, nearby residents voiced strenuous objections to the project, but the developer
Achieva Credit Union is planning a 4,000-square-foot branch in Trinity, near the intersection of Trinity Boulevard and State Road 54. It will be the credit union’s third location in Pasco County. The branch is installing 72 solar panels on its roof, with the goal of absorbing enough sunlight to cover its electricity needs.
REDUCE REOPENING RISKS The Pasco Economic Development Council and Florida’s Sports Coast have launched a grant program to cover fees associated with earning Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) STAR Accreditation. The accreditation means a business has established and maintained a cleaning, disinfection and disease prevention program to minimize risks associated with infectious diseases like COVID-19, creating a safe environment for reopening. The grant is being supported by the county through $2 million in Pasco CARES Act funding, For more information, visit PEDC.com.
AVALON PARK/SITEX TO ADD 1,000 LOTS Avalon Park Group/sitEX has announced that is has closed on a 285-acre parcel in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel with D.R. Horton, bringing up to 1,000 additional lots to the community in the next phase called Westgate, according to a news release.
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DID YOU KNOW?
Readers can now find Pets of the Week and Local Wildlife photos on our website at LakerLutznews.com, under the Pets/Wildlife link.
ACROSS 1. Corrode 5. Jean Paul __, author 11. Hebrew unit of dry measure 12. A type of scientist 16. Greek goddess of discord 17. For Red Sox MVP 18. It checks your speed 19. Made dirty 24. The First State 25. Lodgings 26. Spiritual leader 27. Bradley Int’l Airport code 28. Native American people 29. Sharp pain 30. Touch 31. Slowly disappears 33. Indigenous Russian people 34. Narrative poem 38. Some are bad 39. Small quill feathers 40. Tattles 43. Popular Easter entree 44. Beneficiary 45. Clothed 49. Payroll firm 50. Lower Normandy’s largest city 51. Binary compound of halogen 53. The Fighting Irish 54. Skilled, paid worker 56. Eyelashes 58. The 12th letter of the Greek alphabet 59. Large, stocky lizard 60. Made poisonous 63. Former US Secretary of State 64. Sticky substances 65. A type of gin DOWN 1. To return an echo 2. Displace 3. Japanese religion
4. Predilections 5. Partial 6. Poisonous plant 7. Road open 8. Atomic #81 9. Accomplished American composer 10. Oh, God! 13. Potato state 14. Most melancholic 15. Supportive framework 20. Hollywood’s Pacino 21. A title for women 22. Popular Grammys alternative 23. Check 27. Bolivian river 29. South Dakota 30. Wonderful 31. Supervises flying 32. Commercial 33. More (Spanish) 34. Even distribution of weight 35. “Arabian Nights” hero 36. Compact mass of a substance 37. Bachelor of Laws 38. Halfback 40. Some of it is ground 41. They play in the trenches 42. Atomic #18 44. Chinese Prefecture 45. Fabrics 46. Being in a direct line of descent from an ancestor 47. In slow tempo 48. Flood 50. Long-necked bird 51. Secondary school 52. Artificial intelligence 54. Structure by the water 55. Lather 57. What happens there stays there 61. A bone 62. The Great Lakes State
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The LAKER / Lutz NEWS CROSSWORD PUZZLE
3B
Health
&
The Laker/Lutz News likes to keep our readers informed about available classes, seminars, lectures and events regarding health and wellness issues. Hospitals, doctors, individual practitioners and anyone related to the health care industry can submit information, at least two weeks in advance, to be considered for publication. Photos of events, recognitions and so on, also are welcome. Submissions should include who, what, where, when, cost, contact information, identifications for individuals in a photo (unless it is a large group), and a photo credit. This information should be emailed to news@lakerlutznews.com.
Wellness Send health news to news@lakerlutznews.com
NON-URGENT SURGERIES REDUCED BayCare Health Systems has begun to reduce the number of non-urgent surgeries performed at its hospitals in Hillsborough and Polk counties, due to the rising number of severely ill COVID-19 patients, according to a BayCare news release. The temporary change in policy went into effect on July 16 and impacts all six of BayCare’s Hillsborough locations: St. Joseph’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Women’s in Tampa; St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz; St. Joseph’s Hospitals-South in Riverview; and, South Florida Baptist in Plant City. Under the plan, all surgeries for lifethreatening situations will continue to be performed.And, unlike the state-mandated ban on elective surgeries earlier this year, BayCare’s effort will still allow many nonurgent surgeries and procedures to continue. Generally, surgeries that could be deferred are those that are not medically urgent and require overnight recovery in the hospital. BayCare’s Ambulatory Surgery Centers, which specialize in outpatient surgery and were closed under the earlier government ban on electives, will continue to operate. In the past month, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk and Pasco counties have seen available hospital bed capacity decline significantly due to rising COVID-19 cases.
LIGHTHOUSE IS AUGUST CHARITY
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices will be collecting donations in August for the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired & Blind.The mission of the Lighthouse is to educate, empower and
employ people who are visually impaired and blind. The organization provides early intervention services for blind babies, programs for children, a teen school-to-work transition program, independent living skills training for adults and seniors, and other services to help people become as self-sufficient as possible. Services are provided at no cost to program participants and all donations received will help provide more services to more people. “The Lighthouse has a long history of serving visually impaired individuals in Pasco County,” said Fasano, in a news release. “It is estimated that over a half million Floridians are sight impaired, with over 27,000 living within the Lighthouse’s service area….I encourage our community to support the Lighthouse either through making a cash donation or perhaps purchasing a specialty license tag, which will help the Lighthouse for years to come,” Fasano added. Cash donations can be made at any of the five tax collector locations in Pasco County, and checks will be accepted by mail, too. Individuals interested in switching their current tag for “A State of Vision” specialty tag may do so at any of the same locations. For information about the tax collector’s charitable giving program, call Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at (727) 847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com. For more information about services provided at the Lighthouse, call Patricia Porter at (813) 713-2492.
STUDY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Researchers at the University of South Florida Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute are looking for participants age 50 and
older with no memory loss to take part in an Alzheimer Prevention Trials (APT) Webstudy. The Webstudy is a first-of-its-kind online study that detects if people experience memory loss over time and need early intervention, and matches them with the right Alzheimer’s study, as quickly as possible. Twenty percent of Floridians, more than 4.3 million people, are 65 and older, making Florida one of the ‘grayest states’ in the nation. Consequently, it has one of the largest populations of people with Alzheimer’s disease — a projected 580,000. This number is expected to skyrocket by 24% to 720,000 people in the next five years, according to a Message Partners PR news release. Volunteers take no-cost memory tests online every three months to monitor memory changes over time. If changes are observed, volunteers may be invited to an in-person evaluation to determine eligibility for additional Alzheimer’s studies. To learn more and enroll, visit APTWebstudy.org.
NEW HEALTH DEGREES OFFERED
Saint Leo University has announced the start of a new four-year degree — a bachelor’s in health education and health promotion — that will prepare graduates for a growing number of health education positions at community organizations, health care agencies, and workplaces. Health education specialists play an important role in organizations by developing new education programs for various groups and improving programs that may already exist. The instruction of Saint Leo graduates will be to promote a “culture of health” wherever they work, through effective teaching, through the examples they set as individuals who prioritize their own well-
being, and through the cooperative working relationships they maintain with clinicians and other health professionals. Saint Leo will launch the Bachelor of Science program in the fall semester at its residential campus. Faculty anticipate that students most attracted to the program will be those with a desire to learn about health and to engage with others, and those who enjoy working with groups of people. The program will prepare students with a contemporary curriculum that draws from courses in anatomy, professional speaking, statistics, psychology, ethics, and nutrition, and layers in courses in education and health promotion. Education courses, such as teaching diverse populations, brain-based learning and assessing health learning, will ensure that students not only understand health material, but are able to make it understandable to future clients. At the end of this program of study, students can choose to take a national competency exam for the Certified Health Education Specialist credential. Some employers require the credential. In general, it is considered an asset for those in the field. Visit SaintLeo.edu for information.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL PHYSICALS
Premier Community HealthCare is offering $15 back-to-school physicals until Aug. 31, on Monday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., at its six locations, including Dade City and Zephyrhills. Students can receive a complete physical examination, state-required screening, and a free backpack with school supply kit (while supplies last). Schedule an appointment by calling (352) 518-2000, or online at PremierHC.org. Same-day appointments are available.
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4B
August 5, 2020
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11 Locations Countyywide: WEST PPAASCO GOVERNMENT CENTER 8731 Citizens Dr New Port Richey FL 34654 COURTESY OF BERMICE THOMAS
Pastor Harold Thomas celebrates his birthday, seated next to his wife, Bermice Thomas.
Pastor is ‘Birthday King’ for a day The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report Members of St. John Missionary Baptist Church recently helped to celebrate the Rev. Harold Thomas’ 85th birthday, and his 37th year of leading the church. In the midst of COVID-19, the church couldn’t host the gathering it wanted, so it adapted to the times, according to Bermice Thomas, the pastor’s wife, who provided information about the event. Church members outfitted Thomas with a “Birthday King� robe and crown, and had a surprise luncheon — adhering to COVID-19 social distancing. Festivities included a parade of law enforcement officers from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office and the Dade City Police Department — complete with lights and sirens, the pastor’s wife reported. Pastor Thomas has “humbly served� at the church, located at 14549 Eighth St., in Dade City, his wife said, via email. She thanked ANA’s Devine Events for providing beautiful decorations for the church’s dining area. She said the pastor’s birthday was on July 21, but members decided it would be more of a surprise if they had the party on July 19 — the same day as church service. Those attending the morning service were invited to share in the lunch. The luncheon foods came from Olive Garden and Wingstop. Bermice Thomas said her husband rode
with her to Wesley Chapel to pick up the chicken wings — one of his favorite foods. His wife said she drove slowly deliberately, to ensure they arrived at the church close to the arranged time of the law enforcement parade. The pastor became somewhat suspicious when she got of the car quickly, to go into the church. “The cars were waiting to proceed at 1 p.m. sharp starting at the corner of Sumner Avenue and 10th Street,� she reported. “As the sirens got closer, Rev. Thomas, as well as everyone, came out to the covered sidewalk to see what was going on and why the sirens were so close. “When the officers turned into the church parking lot with all the bells and whistles, my husband asked what was going on. “The officers got out of their vehicles and those gathered began singing Happy Birthday, and each officer came up to congratulate him on 85 years,� Bermice Thomas’ email says. Even though the officers could not stay to enjoy lunch, the pastor’s wife said,“I’d like to thank Chief Walters and the Dade City Police department for sharing in this wonderful blessing.� She also appreciated the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office for being there. Pastor Thomas was moved to tears by the touching tribute, her email says.
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PASCO COOUNTYY UTILITIES PA ADMINISTRA T ATTION BLDG 19420 Central Blvd Land O’ Lakes FL 34637
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ALICE HALL COMMUNIT Y CENTER 38116 5th Ave Zephyrhills FL 33542
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Early voters should expect longer wait times as we apply CDC-recommended measures for the health and safety of you and the pollworkers. Please remain patient while we: •limit the amount of voters inside the early voting site •maintain social distancing in wait lines •continuously clean equipment and surfaces Face masks/shields will be mandatory for pollworkers and will be available for voters. The use of masks is strongly encouraged in keeping with the county mask requirement directive.
Brian E. Corleyy
Supervisor i off Elections El i Pasco County 800-521-8754 Para asistencia en espaĂąol llame al 833-828-3224 www.PascoV PascoVotes tes.gov gov
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M ask C ollo orinng gC ontte eest sstt Mask Coloring Co Contest Co sponsored by:
It will tak ke you to a google form to submit
2. Email: kmurdock@lakerlutznews.com 3. Snail Maail (see form below) DEADLINE FOR ENTR RY IS AUG. 19TH. WINNERS W WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN THE AUG. 26TH ISSUE OF THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS.
S i g n s B y A S A P. c o m
Color the mask above then mail to: Star Student Mask Coloring Contest Lutz News The Laker//L 3632 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite 102 Land O’ Lakes, FL L 34639 WINNERS WILL RECEIVE A GIFT CARD AND A MASK WITH THEIR CUSTOM DESIGN.
LARGE TOY SECTION!
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NATURE NOTES
Gardening during COVID-19: Sanitize your tools By Nicole Pinson
Special to The Laker/Lutz News
We all know to wash our hands for 20 seconds, cough into our elbows and practice 6-foot physical distancing. But, with all the sanitizing of hands and homes, did you know it’s also important to sanitize your garden tools? Diseases may be spread from plant to plant by pruning tools, such as hand saws, pruners and loppers.This is especially true for palms. Fusarium wilt and thielaviopsis trunk rot of palm are two examples of palm diseases that may be transmitted by pruning tools. Fusarium wilt and thielaviopis rot are both lethal palm diseases. It can be costly to re-
move or replant a specimen palm. Canary Island date, queen, Mexican fan and coconut palms are the most susceptible. If you have any of these in your landscape, be extra careful about pruning and sanitizing your tools. If you use a landscape maintenance company, talk with them to make sure they sanitize pruning tools between properties and before pruning these types of palms in your landscape. Common recipes for sanitizing tools: • Pine SolŽ: 25% Pine SolŽ and 75% water • Bleach: 25% bleach and 75% water • Rubbing alcohol: 50% rubbing alcohol and 50% water (Must be 70% isopropyl alcohol) • Denatured ethanol: 50% denatured ethanol and 50% water (Must be 95% dena-
tured alcohol) The most important thing to remember: Soak the tools for 5 minutes to 10 minutes. Dipping them into a sanitizing solution will not sanitize them.They must soak for the solution to work. Also, be sure to replace the solution every two hours, or after 10 palms. And, be sure to rinse the tool with fresh water after soaking it. In general, palms rarely need to be pruned.When pruning, only remove dead or dangerous fronds. Too much pruning may attract pests, such as palmetto weevils. It may also stress the palm, which makes it less able to withstand disease. If you have gardening questions during
COURTESY OF NICOLE PINSON, UF/IFAS
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