FREE Jeff Corwin Lecture - USF Tampa, Thursday, November 15, 8 p.m.

Jeff Corwin, host and executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning show “The Jeff Corwin Experience,” will be sharing his animal adventures as well as the importance of wildlife conservation and sustainability with University of South Florida (USF) students, staff, and community. The heavily anticipated lecture, “Tales from the Field with Jeff Corwin,” takes place Thursday, Nov. 15, at 8 p.m. in the Marshall Student Center Ballroom on the Tampa campus.

Sponsored by the USF Student Affairs’ University Lecture Series (ULS), Corwin’s lecture will feature various live animals, potentially including a cougar, alligator, coati and Burmese python.

While Corwin is best known for his entertaining shows on Animal Planet, Discovery Channel and ABC, he is also one of the world’s leading environmental journalists. His passion for conservationism and sustainability attracts audiences from all around the globe. Also an author, his latest book is “100 Heartbeats: The Race to Save Earth’s Most Endangered Species.”

All lectures in the University Lecture Series are free to students, faculty, staff and the public. For more information about the series, the speaker, the seating and attendance policy, or parking, visit http://uls.usf.edu/. For reasonable accommodations, please contact (813) 974-1001 (FL Relay 711).

Other inquiries may be directed to Renee Svec at (813)974-5383 or svec@usf.edu or Lara Wade-Martinez at (813) 974-9060 or larawade@usf.edu.

Paddling Pasco Trip # 8 - Eagle Point Park to Green Key, Saturday, November 3

Paddling Pasco Trip #8, a sunset paddle, is planned for Saturday November 3rd from Eagle Point Park to Robert Rees Memorial Park (AKA Green Key) with a bonfire on the beach at sunset. Boats will need to be dropped off at Eagle Point Park between 3:30 and 4pm and vehicles will need to park at Green Key - a shuttle will return you to your boat for a launch at 4:30pm promptly. The trip is scheduled to be about 2 to 2.5 hours along the mangrove shoreline to include some mangrove tunnels in the park. Sea life and sea birds in this area is abundant and winter sunsets can be spectacular. Eagle Point Park is located at the western end of Trouble Creek Road and Green Key is located at the western end of Green Key Road - both roads are off US 19 in New Port Richey.

Things to consider bringing other than boat, paddle, PFD and whistle:  drinks, snacks, camera, flashlight or head light, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellant, chair for around the fire and towel. If you want to register for this trip please contact us at fbuckman@pascocountyfl.net or 813-929-2760 with names and contact information including email and phone number. This will allow us to prepare properly. We will ask those attending to read and sign a simple liability waiver on site before we launch. Cost will be $2 for parking.

Paddling Pasco Trip #8 - Upper Withlacoochee River, Sunday, October 28

Paddling Pasco Trip #7 on the upper Withlacoochee River, Sunday October 28, 9am to about 11:30am.

Please meet at the kayak launch on the river in Pasco County’s Withlacoochee River Park. Once we all gather, we will access this launch location and may move to a nearby boat ramp for easier access. A local guide in the area, Marty Warburton, will lead the paddle. The water level is high and there will be river current, but it should be manageable in kayaks. We hope to go up river into the Green Swamp area. Hopefully there will be opportunities to see and take pictures of wildlife and wild lands.

All paddlers will need to wear a PFD while on the river and sign a waiver on site.

This trip will be unlike any of the others done along the coast, although the trip on the upper Cotee River did go through some of Old Florida wild lands. The trip is planned to be approximately 2 to 2.5 hours on the water. If we launch in the park, there will be a $2 fee.

To register or if you have any questions, please contact the Pasco County Parks & Recreation office at 813-929-2760.

Note: The park is hosting a Native American Indian Pow-Wow this weekend, so you might want to stay a bit to take in this event. For more information on this event please contact Withlacoochee River Park at 352-567-0264 or 352-521-4104.

2nd Annual Day in the Country - Saturday, Nov. 3

Sky Harbor 2nd Annual Day in the Country

Haunted Pasco 2012 - Haunted Houses to Thrill and Chill You!

The Haunted House on 41 
October 25, 7:30-9:30 p.m.;  Oct. 26-27, 7:30-10 p.m.
Land O'Lakes Community Center
5401 Land O' Lakes Blvd.
Land O' Lakes, FL
Thursday night is Sneak Peek night and admission is free!  Friday & Saturday's admission is $1 per person. Some scenes may be too intense for young children. For information, call (813) 929-1229. Hosted by the Pasco County Parks and Recreation Department.

The Angelus 6th Annual Haunted House
12413 Hudson Ave.
Hudson, FL 34669

October 19-21 and 26-31

Hours of Operation:  Fridays & Saturday 6:30pm - 12:00am    

Sundays & Weekdays  6:30pm - 10:00pm
Admission costs vary; check website for details.

Haunted Forest

North Anclote River Nature Park
550 Dixie Hwy
Tarpon Springs, FL
October 19th, 20th & 26th, from 6:30-9:30pm. 
Admission: $5.00 for all ages.
Hike through the haunted trails at the North Anclote River Nature Park, off Old Dixie Highway.  If the hidden terrors don't frighten you, the insects will!   Concessions will be available in the parking lot. 

Horror at the Ridge

9349 Calle Alta Dr.

New Port Richey, FL 34655

October 19-21 and 26-31

Hours of Operation: 7:30pm - 11:00pm

Admission: $2.00 for all ages

Additional items available for purchase: novelties, food & drink

Proceeds benefit River Ridge High School band programs

House of Fright

18701 Shady Hills Rd.

Spring Hill, FL 34610

October 19-21 and 26-31

Fridays & Saturdays from 7pm-1am
Sundays, Monday & Tuesday from 7pm-11pm
Halloween Wednesday from 7pm-1am

Admission costs vary; check website for details.

Halloween Howl
5th Avenue
Downtown Zephyrhills, FL
Saturday, October 27, 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Take a hair-raising hayride to the haunted house. Other activities include safe trick-or-treating, costume parade, bounce houses, cake walk, food vendors and live entertainment.

 

2nd Annual CVS Halloween Bash! Sunday, October 21

This Sunday, October 21st, visit your local CVS/pharmacy between 1 and 3 p.m. for their free Halloween bash!  Kids in costume will be able to have their picture taken by CVS staff for a free 5x7 print and will receive a FREE Halloween fun pack, containing Halloween goodies and over $10 in coupons.

To find the closest CVS/pharmacy, check out their Store Locator.

Pasco County Area Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals

Fall is here, even if it doesn't feel like it outside.  Get in the seasonal spirit by visiting one of the many pumpkin patches and fall festivals gearing up around the area!

Fall Festival
Every Saturday and Sunday in October, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Horsepower for Kids, Inc.
8005 S. Racetrack Rd., Tampa, FL 33635

Admission $10/children, $8/adults. Parking $1 per car. Cash only, please.  Admission includes pony rides, hay rides, train rides, farm animals, face painting, bonfire, games, live music, hot dog and soda. Pumpkins also available for purchase.

Fall Maze
Every Saturday and Sunday thru November 4, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 
Sweetfields Farm
17250 Benes Roush Rd., Masaryktown, FL 34604
Admission 12 years and older: $8.50, 3-11 years: $4.50, 2 years and under are free.  Admission includes fall maze, hay ride, hay maze, hay play area, picnic area, duck race, spider web maze, treehouse, storyteller, craft, animal visits, and more. Bring extra money for the pumpkin launcher, face painting, pumpkin painting, food and drinks, and U-pick or gathered produce.

Fall Festival
Friday, October 12, 6-8:30 p.m.
Morton Plant Mease Outpatient Center
2102 Trinity Oaks Blvd., Trinity, FL 
Free dinner, health screenings, Ask-A-Doc, face painting, pumpkin painting, Radio Disney, and more! Preregistration required, click here to register online or call (727) 940-2875.

Scarecrow Festival
Saturday, October 13, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Downtown Dade City
Free admission, bring your own long sleeved shirt and pants and stuff a scarecrow for free, arts and crafts vendors, carnival games (bring money!), pumpkins, pony rides, and bounce houses.


Fall Festival
Saturday, October 13, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Holiday Community Fellowship Church
5144 Sunray Dr., Holiday, FL 34690
Pumpkin patch, activities, games, food, and fun!

Fall Festival of Hope Vendor and Craft Fair
Saturday, October 13, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
HERS Fitness Center
7135 State Road 54, New Port Richey, FL 34653
Free doorprizes, free Zumba class at 9:30 a.m., food, and children's crafts

Wesley Chapel Fall Festival
Saturday and Sunday, October 13-14, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The Grove at Wesley Chapel
Oakley Blvd., Wesley Chapel, FL 33544

Arts and crafts vendors, Battle of the Wings contest, Lil Mr. and Miss Pumpkin Patch contest, pumpkin patch, hay rides, bounce houses, face painting, and more!

Family Fun Festival
Friday, October 19, 4-7 p.m.
Seal Swim School
19509 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Lutz, FL 33548
Pumpkin painting, bounce house, arts and crafts, face painting, music, and more.

Pumpkin Patch Bash
Friday, October 19, 6-8 p.m.
Land O' Lakes Recreation Complex
3032 Collier Pkwy
Land O' Lakes, FL 34639
Come join our Pumpkin Patch Bash where we will have games, candy, hay rides and activities inside and outside. Costumes are encouraged but not required! This event is for ages 10 years old and under. Admission is $1 per person.

Pumpkin Patch and Fall Family Festival and Food Drive
First United Methodist Church of New Port Richey
5901 Indiana Ave., New Port Richey, FL 34652

Pumpkin patch open Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., October 17-27
Fall Family Festival and Food Drive
Saturday, October 20, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Saturday is Museum Day!

If you're looking for something FREE to do this Saturday (Sept. 29), you may need to look no further than your local museum.  This Saturday marks the Smithsonian Museum Day Live, a program that offers free admission to participating museums and cultural institutions around the country.  For a list of participating museums in Florida, click here.

To request your ticket for free admission for two, fill out the form located here.  The ticket voucher will be sent to your email, and you must print it and show it at your requested museum to be admitted for free.

Which museum will you explore this Saturday?  The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art in Tarpon Springs?  How about the Armed Forces History Museum in Largo?  Drop us a comment and let us know!

Swaptember - Florida Aquarium, MOSI, and Lowry Park Zoo

If you are a member of the Florida Aquarium, MOSI, or Lowry Park Zoo, this is your last week to take advantage of Swaptember!

Swaptember is the program that allows members of these three local attractions to visit the other attractions for free during the month of September - just show your membership card at the ticket office.  For example, we have an annual membership to Lowry Park Zoo.  This past weekend we went to the Florida Aquarium.  We just showed our Zoo membership cards at the Aquarium ticket counter and got free admission!

For more information and details, visit any of their websites:

http://www.flaquarium.org/annual-pass/share-program/swaptember.aspx

http://www.mosi.org/default.aspx

http://www.lowryparkzoo.com/index.html

Free Florida Aquarium Tickets!

Back by popular demand, The Florida Aquarium is offering free admission to Goodwill donors again this fall.

During September, each person who drops off clothing or household items at any Goodwill Industries-Suncoast donation site will receive a coupon good for up to three free tickets to The Florida Aquarium, one for each paid adult ticket. That’s a “BOGO” savings of up to $65.85, just for getting rid of items you no longer need! The coupons are redeemable at The Florida Aquarium until Nov. 30, 2012.

The incentive is intended to boosts donations to Goodwill during a period when they typically drop off, following the back-to-school season.

The partnership between the two nonprofit organizations is a natural, since Goodwill and The Florida Aquarium are linked by their mutual commitment to the environment. Items donated to Goodwill are “repurposed” rather than being relegated to landfills. Donations support Goodwill’s services for people who are disabled, elderly or unemployed.

For the location of the nearest Goodwill donation site, visit www.goodwill-suncoast.org.

About Goodwill Industries-Suncoast, Inc.

Goodwill Industries-Suncoast was founded in St. Petersburg, Fla. in 1954, and is one of the largest and most effective Goodwill organizations in the world. Its mission is to help people achieve their full potential through the dignity and power of work. The organization's successful donated goods retail operation helps support its human services in 10 counties, including employment and training services, training centers for people with disabilities, affordable apartment communities, and community corrections programs. Goodwill is consistently ranked among the nonprofits most deserving of support based on the high percentage of revenue allocated to its programs. For more information, visit www.goodwill-suncoast.org.

About The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is a destination for people who truly want to be inches from amazing. From underwater encounters with sea turtles, moray eels or sharks to meeting penguins behind the scenes, aquarium guests have the opportunity to see life from a unique perspective! The Florida Aquarium biologists, divers and educators help with underwater clean-up projects, take animals to underserved children and care for aquatic animals and ecosystems in need. For more information, visit www.flaquarium.org.

From the Sun to Pluto Interactive Exhibit - Ribbon-Cutting Saturday, Sept. 8

CANCELED - Paddling Pasco Trip #6 - Green Key

This trip has been canceled 

due to possible inclement weather. 

 

Paddling Pasco Trip #6

Green Key (Robert Rees Memorial Park) to Eagle Point Park

This trip will start out on Sunday, August 26th with boat drop off at Green Key after 7 am and parking your vehicles at Eagle Point Park. Shuttles will bring you back to the launch point so we can launch at 8 am on the high tide. The last shuttle will leave Eagle Point Park at approximately 7:30 am.

This trip is planned to be approximately 1.5 to 2 hours on the water. We plan to paddle from the park east along the shore into the mangrove forests between the Park and Gulf Harbors, then work our way out along Gulf Harbor’s north channel and south around this development to Eagle Point Park. Hopefully we will have some time to explore the park waterways before we exit.

During past scouting trips I have seen mangrove tunnels which were navigable at high tide, many seabirds, and a lot of sea life in the shallow waters. Oysters and rocks will be obstacles to avoid and there will be some locations which may be very shallow in the mangrove forest. I will do another scouting trip at high tide before we go as a group.

All paddlers will need to sign the waiver at the launch location and pay the $2 parking/user fee at Eagle Point Park if you park a vehicle at this location, unless you have an annual pass. There is a nice walking/exercise trail and there are picnic shelters at Eagle Point Park, if you would like to get in a lower body workout or eat an early lunch.

You will need to bring your own boat or rent one from a local vendor. Some potential contacts include Windsong in Pasco, Osprey Bay in Clearwater and Wet Dog Adventures in Oldsmar.

If you have questions or want to register for this trip, please contact us with your name(s), number of paddlers, email and phone number. This will help us with the shuttle logistics and preparation in other ways. Our phone # is 813-929-2760 or 727-834-3278 – email is fbuckman@pascocountyfl.net
If you register, we will be in touch a few days before the trip with further details. Hope you can make it and share the experience with others – Pasco’s coast is beautiful and from the water even more so.

5th Annual Canstruction Design/Build Competition Benefiting The Volunteer Way Food Bank

Pasco County Canstruction 2012

Free Vaccines available for Pasco County school children

School starts for Pasco County children on Monday, August 20.  Are your kids up-to-date on their required vaccinations?  Free children's immunizations are available at the Pasco County Health Department's immunization clinics!  Call to find out immunization times or to schedule an appointment:

10841 Little Road New Port Richey, FL 34654 (727) 861-5250
11611 Denton Avenue Hudson, FL 34667 (727) 861-5661
13941 15th Street Dade City, FL 33525 (352) 521-1450
4135 Land O'Lakes Blvd Land O'Lakes, FL 34639 (813) 558-5173
4717 Airport Road. Zephyrhills, FL 33540 (813) 780-0740.

NOTE: The Pasco County Health Department will be onsite at the County's middle schools to administer the Tdap vaccination free-of-charge during orientation on August 14.

Vaccines available for Pasco County school children

Back-to-School Freebies!

If you are a parent of a school-aged child, you know how expensive August can be.  If you need a little help getting your child's school supplies together, check out one of these events to get free school supplies:




Month of August
Free Back-to-School Haircuts (Kids K-6th Grade)
All JCPenney Salons
Click here to find a salon near you!


Saturday, August 4  11 a.m.-1 p.m.
4th Annual Back to School Bash
Cobb Theatres Grove 16 & Cinebistro
6333 Wesley Grove Blvd.
Wesley Chapel, FL
Free school supplies, free games, face painting, health screens, free hair cuts

Saturday, August 11 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine's Annual Back to School Fair
Glazer Childrens Museum
110 W. Gasparilla Plaza
Tampa, FL
Live entertainment, informative speaker sessions, karaoke, games, arts & crafts, face painting, balloon artist, kids workshops, and a whole bunch of fun! There will be giveaways and prizes given every hour and the first 150 kids will receive a back to school bag with school supplies. Admission is $5 per person (free for museum members).

Sunday, August 19  8:10 a.m., 9:45 a.m., and 11:20 a.m.
Back to School Backpack Giveaway
Calvary Chapel Worship Center
6825 Trouble Creek Rd.
New Port Richey, FL
Free backpacks, school supplies, games, prizes, free hair cuts, gently used clothing, and more.  Register onsite the day of or call Olivia Masterson at (727) 376-7733 for more information.

2012 Florida Tax-Free Weekend - THIS Weekend!

 This weekend is Florida's sales tax holiday!  Shop Friday through Sunday for back-to-school supplies and clothing!  A list of tax-exempt items follows. tip2a01-02List

Pasco County Flood Warning Update - July 18

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Warning for Pasco County near the Anclote River at Elfers and Cypress Creek at Worthington Gardens in Zephyrhills. According to the NWS the Anclote flood stage will rise above the minor stage level of 20 feet this evening. The NWS states the river at Cypress Creek at Worthington Gardens will rise two feet (10.1) above the minor flood stage level through Friday.

The County’s Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at 4444 Grand Avenue (Corner of Grand and Trouble Creek Road), New Port Richey is open to assist residents. It’s open Monday through Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6:00 p.m. In addition, the Resident Information Center (RIC) is open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The following questions are frequently asked through the RIC’s information line at (727) 847-8959:

• Where can I go to get sandbags? Sand and bags are available at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center (3032 Collier Pkwy), Warder Road Public Works Facility (30906 Warder Rd., San Antonio, open 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) and the Public Works Administration building (7536 State St., New Port Richey). The facility is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please bring a shovel.

• If I have damage from the recent afternoon thunderstorms can I apply for Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) aid? Yes, according to FEMA you may be eligible for assistance. Please register with FEMA at (800) 621-FEMA (3362).

• Is there public transportation to the DRC? Yes, Pasco County Public Transportation Route 18 on Grand Boulevard has a bus stop and it’s located approximately 250 feet from the DRC.

Citizens are encouraged to follow the updated services online at www.pascocountyfl.net. On the site residents can register their damages and receive more information on storm debris collection. In addition, follow updates on Pasco County TV, Brighthouse 622 or Verizon 42, and like us on Facebook at Bringing Opportunities Home.

Seniors! Provide Input About Federal & State Funds for Senior Services

AAAPP Public Hearingpdf

Tropical Storm Debby - Storm Debris Removal Info

Pasco County and/or Grubbs Emergency Services, LLC, will begin picking up storm debris on Monday, July 9, starting in the Hudson area and gradually moving south to Elfers, Holiday and the Trinity area.  Debris pick up will last approximately 4 to 5 weeks, leaving citizens ample time to dispose of items that are water damaged.

Officials ask residents to separate storm-related debris from regular trash and put the debris in the public right of way. Limbs and branches, appliances and construction material such as carpeting should be separated. Residents of gated communities should place debris outside the gates in the public right of way. Hazardous waste should not be taken to the curb.

For information, call the county's Resident Information Center at (727) 847-8959 during weekday business hours.

For general storm-recovery information, visit https://newportrichey.recovers.org/

FEMA Disaster Relief - Tropical Storm Debby

Tropical Storm Debby survivors in Florida’s Baker, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Franklin, Hernando, Highlands, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee and Wakulla counties can apply now for federal disaster assistance. Money for temporary housing and essential home repairs not covered by insurance is available. Renters, homeowners and business owners may register for help through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

If you live in one of the designated counties and sustained losses or damages from Tropical Storm Debby, you can register with FEMA by one of the following methods:

• Call 800-621-FEMA (3362), which is video relay service accessible. Assistance is available in most languages and lines are open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. If you are deaf or hard of hearing and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
• Go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
• By smartphone or tablet, use the FEMA app or go to m.fema.gov.

FEMA will ask for the following information:

• The telephone number where you can be reached;
• The address where you lived at the time of the disaster and the address where you are staying;
• Your Social Security number;
• A general description of damage to your property and other losses;
• The name of your insurance company and policy number or agent if you have property insurance; and
• Your bank account routing information if you want FEMA to use direct deposit.

Federal disaster assistance helps eligible applicants with temporary housing, uninsured personal property losses and medical, dental and funeral expenses caused by the disaster, along with other disaster-related expenses and serious needs.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available to help with residential and business losses not covered by insurance. Survivors and businesses may obtain
information on SBA disaster loan applications by calling 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 for people who are deaf or hard of hearing) or online at www.SBA.gov. They may also apply for disaster loans electronically from SBA’s website at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

5th of July Fireworks!

Dade City has rescheduled its Sparklebration fireworks display to TONIGHT, Thursday, July 5, since last night's fireworks were abruptly interrupted due to a staff member's injury shortly after they began.

Gates open at 6 p.m. and admission is FREE!  Food and entertainment will be available. The fireworks will begin at 9:15.

Summer Lunch Bus in Holiday!

Gulfside Elementary School, working with the Pasco School District, is running its Summer Lunch Bus Program, which will continue weekdays until Aug. 10.
Children ages 18 and younger in the Gulfside Elementary area in Holiday have access to a free lunch weekdays during summer vacation. Volunteers prepare lunches at the school and then take them out into the neighborhood to distribute them at specified times and locations.
The schedule is as follows:

• 11 a.m.: Holiday Lakes West Civic Center, 2728 Holiday Lake Drive.

• 11:20 a.m.: Holiday Lakes Estates Civic Center, 3628 Atlantis Drive.

• 11:45 a.m.: Westin Oaks Apartments, 1251 Westin Oaks Drive, off Alt. 19.

• 12:20 p.m.: Corner of Roselawn Drive and Lange Road.

• 12:45 p.m.: Corner of Orange Drive and Bonita Road.

No ID or registration required.

4th of July Fireworks!

Independence Day is fast approaching and we have your best fireworks-viewing options right here in Pasco County!

Join the crowds for an early Independence Day celebration at Main Street Blast on Saturday, June 30 in downtown New Port Richey!

Or, if you're in the northern part of the county, visit the Angelus's 4th Annual  Family, Fun, & Fireworks Extravaganza - $10 per carload, proceeds benefit The Angelus.










Tuesday, July 3 brings a Freedom Festival to the Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel.  Sponsored by the Rotary Club at Wesley Chapel, this celebration will include discounts at mall retailers, a bicycle parade, and a grand finale fireworks show at 9 p.m. For more information and for competition signup sheets, visit http://www.theshopsatwiregrass.com/event/freedom-festival/2145398795.

On Wednesday, July 4, come on over to Dade City for Sparklebration!  Tickets are $5.00, kids 12 and under are admitted free.  Gates open at 4 p.m. and bring your lawn chairs and blankets for the fireworks at 9:15 p.m.!  For more information and a full schedule of events, visit the website at http://www.pascocountyfair.com/sparklebration.htm.

Also on Wednesday, July 4, Celebrate Port Richey is planning a fireworks show at Waterfront Park, 8119 Old Post Road. The fireworks will go off after sundown, but get there early to find parking and a good view of Miller's Bayou.  This event has been canceled.

Habitat for Humanity of East and Central Pasco Information Sessions

Habitat for Humanity of East and Central Pasco will hold three information sessions for those interested in applying for a home. Staff members will be available from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on June 27, July 12 and July 31 at the Habitat office at 15017 U.S. 301 (at the corner of Lock Street, across from the Dade City Business Center) to answer questions and meet prospective home owners. Financial advisers often suggest deferring home ownership until buyers can make a down payment of at least 20 percent, but Habitat for Humanity allows people to complete volunteer hours instead of providing money for a down payment. Habitat houses are then sold to qualifying families with a no-profit, interest-free mortgage. Habitat for Humanity of East and Central Pasco plans to build 20 houses during the next year in Dade City, Lacoochee, Zephyrhills, Wesley Chapel and Land O'Lakes. For information visit www.habitatpasco.org or call (352) 567-1444.

Free & Reduced-Cost Lunches

Happy First Day of Summer!  While we are in the dog days of summer, don't forget to apply for the free or reduced-cost school meals program - the first day to apply online is July 1 on the Pasco County School District's website at www.pasco.k12.fl.us/free_reduced.

Families who qualify must reapply every year for assistance.  If you do not want to apply online, paper applications will be available at any Pasco County school cafeteria, administrative offices, and at school orientations starting August 1.

Regular student meal prices for the 2012-2013 school year will be $1.25 for breakfast, $2 for lunch for elementary students; $1.40 for breakfast, $2.50 to $3 for lunch for secondary students. Students who qualify for reduced meals will pay 30 cents for breakfast and 40 cents for lunch. Household size and income criteria determine whether students qualify for the program.  If your family doesn't currently qualify for assistance but income or household size factors change during the school year, you can apply at any time during the school year.

For more information telephone Nicole Westmoreland at (813) 794-2438 or email her at nwestmor@pasco.k12.fl.us.

Summer Reading Time!

Not only should you sign your kids up for the Summer Reading Club at your local library, but also check out these other free summer reading programs being offered by retailers around the area!

Barnes & Noble
Print out the reading log from the website. Read 8 books between May 22nd and September 4th and record them on the reading log.  Turn in your log at any local Barnes & Noble location and choose a FREE BOOK from the Reading Journal list at the store!


Pottery Barn Kids Summer Reading Challenge
Read books from their selected Award-Winners book list, track your child's progress on the progress tracking poster, print out and complete the certificate of completion, and visit your local Pottery Barn Kids store to claim your free book! You can also enter to win a backpack full of books!

Help the Pasco County Library System Map Its Future!

Do you use the Pasco County libraries?  Why or why not?  Let us know what you would like to see more of as we undergo our long term strategic planning.  CLICK HERE to take the survey!

Paddling Pasco Trip #5, Sunday, June 10, 2012, 8am to 11am

To Pasco Paddlers,

The Paddling Pasco program was created by the Pasco County Parks and Recreation system to encourage the public to get out and enjoy the great outdoors and the wonderful blueways of Pasco County. It is a series of trips planned and lead along the coast and coastal rivers; the goal is to paddle all the coastal blueways in Pasco County. Paddling is very good low impact exercise and this program offers the chance to meet others of all ages and abilities participating in the same activity. On each trip we try to incorporate a little more than only paddling, to enhance the experience and the memories.  As part of this program we offer the 5^th trip in the series.

Paddling Pasco Trip #5, Sunday, June 10, 2012, 8am to 11am

 This trip will be in partnership with the Werner Boyce Salt Springs State Park citizen service organization (CSO), The Salt Springs Alliance. Here is the itinerary:

The trip will be from the state park to a small island called Durney Key just off the mouth of the Cotee River and then back to the state park, with about 1 hour on the island. Plan is to paddle along the coast to the mouth of the river and then head west to the island. Trip back will be more direct.

Low tide is at 1 pm. Winds in the morning should be light and may gain some speed as the day warms up. If you are a member of the CSO there is no cost, if not there is a $5 launch fee – money going to support the CSO and state park programs. The entire trip is scheduled to be about 3 hours with about 2 hours in the water, to and from the island.

This is a short trip, but visiting this small island is truly a great outing. On the way out we will travel in shallow water and look for sea life and wildlife along the mangrove shoreline. Scouting trips have experienced lots of rays, various species of fish, porpoises and several species of sea birds. You can explore the island, take some wonderful pictures, swim and snorkel in shallow water and grass flats or lounge in a beach chair and visit with others. One other option is to test paddle some of the variety of boats, if fellow paddlers would like to allow the opportunity. If you have not been to this island, I believe you will really enjoy the short visit and probably visit again on your own.

To register please call the Pasco County Parks and Recreation Department at 813-929-2760, provide the  number of paddlers and provide contact information (email and phone).

Other:

·        For those that were on the last trip – it ended up a little longer and difficult than expected mostly because of the wind (I apologize for that). This is a shorter trip and there may be some wind coming back in, but this is a trip most should be able to handle. Please do not let the last trip keep you from participating in this one.

·        There will be a waiver that each participant must sign on the day of the trip at the launch location.

·        Please bring the appropriate launch fee.

·        Consider bringing sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera (water proofed), snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, water shoes, towel, beach chair, and snorkel and mask (we will bring a dive flag, if you have one bring one also).

·        Paddling Pasco shirts may be available for sale. We need to re-order and if the order is in, we will have some. Funds from shirt sales go to a donation account to pay for the shirts and to support this program.

·        After the trip we would like to meet at a local restaurant on the water to discuss the development of an official volunteer paddling club to help plan future trips and events. There have been some preliminary discussions pertaining to doing a fundraising paddle to support cancer research similar to the land based events, and the potential of planning a day or maybe two of paddling programs to include recreational paddling trips, races, fishing contest, education and training classes, etc. Goal would be to have a variety of paddling related activities based out of one of the coastal parks such as Anclote Gulf Park. If you are interested in participating or listening in on the discussion, please let us know.

·        Launch location – It is at the northern terminus of Old Post Road in Port Richey. Take Bay Blvd. off US 19 west to Old Post Road. Go north on Old Post Road. At the end of pavement, continue straight through the fence onto a dirt road to the launch location.

·        Any questions on any of the above, please contact us at 813-929-2760.

·        Please keep an eye out for email updates.

Volunteers Needed to Help People Understand Medicare

Volunteers needed to help individuals

understand their Medicare choices.

We need SHINE (serving health insurance needs of elders) volunteers to help individuals understand Medicare and provide free unbiased information and counseling.  SHINE is called SHIP in most of the other 50 states in the United States. 

Specially trained SHINE volunteer counselors provide free information and assistance.  Consumers can speak to a volunteer by phone or meet with a person for an appointment at our community outreach sites.  Call the Elder Helpline toll-free at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337) and ask to be connected with a SHINE counselor.

Do you want a volunteer position that is truly fulfilling and mentally stimulating? Then consider counseling seniors and the disabled with the SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) program.  SHINE volunteers are both active and retired individuals from diverse career and cultural backgrounds.  As a volunteer, you will receive initial training, continuing education and a supportive environment with dedicated colleagues.

SHINE is a free service of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, operated locally through the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco- Pinellas, Inc.  SHINE provides free and unbiased Medicare information and counseling.  For more information or to learn how you can volunteer, please call the Elder Helpline toll-free at 1-800-96-ELDER (1-800-963-5337) or visit the SHINE website at www.FloridaSHINE.org.  

Pasco County Pedestrians & Bike Riders - Take Note!

Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Council

Wine, Beer, & Cigar Tasting Extravaganza - Thursday, May 31

Wine Tasting

Pasco County Residents - Protect Your Identity!

The ABC Action Team investigative reporters recently discovered some Pasco County residents' Social Security numbers on some county websites.  Click on the link below to read more and to learn how to make sure your private information is not compromised:

I-Team: Dozens of social security numbers posted on county websites

Movie on the Beach - May 11, 2012

Movie+on+the+Beach

Mothers Day Weekend Happenings

21st Annual Mothers Day Powwow
May 11-13, 2012
Withlacoochee River Park
12449 Withlacoochee Blvd.
Dade City, FL 33525
$3 donation to enter, children 12 and younger are FREE!  Gates open at 9:00 AM daily.  Food, fun, Native American music and dancing, and much more!

Many Bay Area attractions and restaurants are offering freebies for moms on Mothers Day weekend!  Highlights include free admission for mom at Lowry Park Zoo, the Florida Aquarium, and MOSI.  Click on the link below for all the details:
Freebies for Moms

2012 Pasco County Parks & Recreation Summer Day Camp

Pasco County Summer Day Camp

Keep Pasco Beautiful! Great American Cleanup - Saturday, April 21 8 a.m. - 12 noon

Pasco County Keep America Beautiful

Two Great Pasco County Festivals - April 27-29

Cotee River Seafood and Blues Festival

Downtown New Port Richey, Florida

Live entertainment, craft vendors, children's activities, and, of course, SEAFOOD!

Blueberry Jerry Jamboree

2nd Annual Blueberry Festival

Friday, April 27, 1pm-10pm / Saturday, April 28, 8am-10pm / Sunday, April 29, 8am-8pm

Rotary Pavilion at the Concourse

Alric Pottberg Road (just west of the Veterans Expressway off State Road 52)

Spring Hill, FL 34610 

Blueberry pancake breakfast, blueberries for sale, live music, kids' entertainment, and much more! Hosted by Short's Berry Barn and Faith United Methodist Church of Hudson.

Secrets of Using Social Media to Promote Your Business

Secrets of Using Social Media to Promote Your Business

Pasco County Area Egg Hunts and Springtime Fun!

Here comes Peter Cottontail, hopping down the Bunny Trail...

Here are just a few of the exciting events happening next weekend in our area:

SATURDAY, APRIL 7


Publix Easter Egg Hunt
Publix - Apex
16560 N. Nebraska Ave. (U.S. 41)
Lutz, FL
(813) 264-5590
7:00 a.m.
For all of those bright-eyed, bushy-tailed bunnies, here is an egg hunt to set your alarms for!

5th Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Hugh Embry Library
14215 Fourth St.
Dade City, FL
(352) 567-3576
10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Pre-Kindergarten and elementary school children are invited to join in a Spring egg hunt (NOTE: children must be accompanied by a parent or caregiver). See how many candy-filled eggs you can find, sing songs, and get a balloon from Silly Sam. The hunt starts at 10 a.m. Don’t forget to bring your Easter basket! 

Easter Eggstravaganza
New Port Richey Recreation & Aquatic Center
6630 Van Buren Rd.
New Port Richey, FL
(727) 841-4560
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
FREE Admission
Bunny Splash
12 p.m. - 3 p.m.
$3 per person
Egg hunts, games, candy, and visit the Easter Bunny at both events.

Easter Eggstravaganza
Tarpon Springs Sports Complex
150 Jasmine Ave.
Tarpon Springs, FL
(727) 942-5628
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
FREE Admission
Egg hunts, pony rides, coloring contests, visits with the Easter Bunny, and more!

Jellybean Jamboree
Land O' Lakes Community Center
5104 Land O' Lakes Blvd.
Land O' Lakes, FL
(813) 929-1229
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
$1 per person admission
Candy scrambles for different age groups, unlimited train rides, and refreshments.
 
Little Sunshine Spring Festival
Little Sunshine Preschool
9316 Little Rd.
New Port Richey, FL
(727) 868-9100
1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
FREE Admission
Food, crafts, games, raffles, face painting, school supply drive, Easter Bunny visits, egg hunts, & more! Proceeds benefit the Foundation for Early Learning in Pasco and Hernando Counties. 

Paddling Pasco - Trip #4 - Aripeka to Sunwest Park

The next trip (Trip #4) as part of the Paddling Pasco program is scheduled for Sunday, April 15th from Aripeka (Aripeka Road - Norfleet’s Fish Camp) south to the future Sunwest Park (see location on Google Maps or property appraiser’s website – southernmost blue lakes along the Hudson coast). We will give a first hand look at some of the plans for this project which encompasses restoration of an old lime rock mine.


High tide in this area is at 10:45am, therefore we will be launching between 9:45am and 10am. Please drop boats off at Norfleet’s Fish Camp ($2.50 to launch) no later than 9:15am and park cars at the future Sunwest Park site. Last shuttle will leave the future Sunwest Park site between 9:30am and 9:45am. Trip is scheduled to be about 2 hours on the water.


This trip will cover some shallow water (10 to 12 inches) and areas with rocks and oysters. The coast is nearly all mangroves and inlets and bayous. During the scouting trip, we saw dolphins, lots of bird life and paddled up one creek that was FULL of fish. Once we get to the future park site we may have some time to play in one of the lakes and perhaps allow each other to test out each others boats to see what we might be missing! Also, please consider bringing a chair and lunch (we plan to cook hotdogs) to hang out for a bit after the paddle.

· To register please call with the following information: number of paddlers, provide contact information (email and phone) and how many will need to be shuttled. Please contact the Pasco County Parks and Recreation Department at 727-834-3278 or 813-929-2760.

Other:

· This will not be a difficult trip unless there is a lot of wind.

· Please bring a completed waiver with you on the day of the trip.

· Please be prepared to pay the launch fee ($2.50).

· Consider bringing sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses, camera (water proof), snacks and water, water shoes, towel, chair and lunch. We plan to cook some hot-dogs.

· We still have few paddling shirts available for $10.  Please advise us of size when you register. We are out of some of the sizes, but will consider another order if needed. We can order long sleeve also, but cost will go up. Funds go into a donation account to support this program.

· Rentals may be available if there is enough interest by calling Down South Kite and Paddle at 727-771-5484 or Windsong at 727-859-0213. All arrangements must be made with these two outfitters.

Summer Reading Enrichment Programs for Children & Adults

Reading Enrichment Programs for Summer

Swimming Lessons - 2012

Spring has sprung and this year it's hot outside! Time to start thinking about the beach and the pool.

Help your children (and yourself) have a fun, accident-free swim season this year by enrolling in one of the many swim lesson opportunities in the area. Here are a few in and adjacent to Pasco County:

Suncoast YMCA
Various Locations in Pasco and Pinellas Counties
http://www.ymcasuncoast.org/find-a-program/aquatics

Tampa YMCA
Various Locations in Hillsborough County & East Pasco County
http://www.tampaymca.org/ 

City of New Port Richey Aquatic Center
Swim lesson registration begins April 14.
Check their website for more information.

Pasco County Parks & Recreation Department
Land O' Lakes Recreation Complex, Land O' Lakes
(813) 929-1220
Veterans Memorial Park, Hudson
(727) 861-3033
Pools open to the public in June. Contact the sites for swim lesson information.

Seal Swim School
Locations in Lutz, Tarpon Springs, and South Tampa
www.sealswimschool.com

Maureen's Swim Academy
Locations in Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties
http://maureenswim.com/

Making Waves Swimming
Private and small group lessons in your own pool - Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas Counties
http://www.makingwavesswimming.com/

College and Financial Aid Fair

As a father of four children, Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-09) understands that determining the next step for your child after high school graduation can be difficult for both parents and students alike.

Bilirakis is pleased to announce that he is hosting a College Fair from 10 a.m. – noon on Saturday, March 17th, at Palm Harbor University High School, 1900 Omaha Street, in Palm Harbor.

"Simply navigating the maze of the admissions and student financial aid process can make an already anxious situation even more complicated," Bilirakis said. "I understand how stressful this time can be, but examining your options early on can ensure that your child receives the quality education they deserve."
The free event is open to the public and will offer one-stop shopping for students and parents, providing them with the opportunity to learn more about available financial aid resources and the admissions process, as well as speak with school representatives face-to-face.

The college fair will feature representatives from regional colleges, local career education and technical training schools, and the service academies. In addition, the fair will include breakout sessions with admissions officers from the University of Florida, financial aid experts from St. Petersburg College, and representatives from the military service academies.

For more information and to RSVP, contact Bilirakis' Palm Harbor office at (727) 773-2871.

WHAT: College and Financial Aid Fair
WHO: Rep. Gus Bilirakis; College admissions officers and financial aid experts
WHEN: 10 a.m. – noon on Saturday, March 17th, 2012
WHERE: Palm Harbor University High School, 1900 Omaha Street, Palm Harbor, FL 34683

Confirmed institutions include:
University of Florida
United States Military Academy
United States Coast Guard Academy
United States Naval Academy
United States Air Force Academy
United States Merchant Marine Academy
University of Tampa
Florida Atlantic University
Devry University
University of Central Florida
St. Petersburg College
Rasmussen College - Land O'Lakes Campus
University of South Florida - Tampa
Eckerd College
USF - St. Petersburg
Keiser University - Tampa Campus
University of North Florida
Clearwater Christian College
pTEC - Pinellas Technical Education Centers
Nova Southeastern University
Pasco-Hernando Community College
Pasco-Hernando Community College
Saint Leo University
University of Miami
ITT Technical Institute
Florida College

Volunteer Opportunity

Vol+Press+Release+March+2012

Quilt Show - March 9-11, 2012

The West Pasco Quilters' Guild biennial quilt show is happening this weekend at Veterans Memorial Park in Hudson!

Dates: Friday-Sunday, March 9-11, 2012
Times: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday
Location: Veterans Memorial Park, 14333 Hicks Road, Hudson, FL 34669

This year's theme is "A Kaleidoscope of Colors".  Scheduled events include a live large quilt auction, a silent auction for smaller quilts, door prizes, a boutique, food, lecture & demonstrations, a wall quilt challenge, and several vendors.  For more information visit the West Pasco Quilters' Guild, Inc. website.

FREE Preschool Pass for SeaWorld & Busch Gardens

If you are a Florida resident with a child who is 5 years old or younger, that child is eligible for FREE admission to SeaWorld Orlando AND Busch Gardens Tampa Bay for all of 2012!  Simply go online and register for the FREE SeaWorld & Busch Gardens Preschool Pass.  You will receive a voucher that you will need to print and take to the front gate ticket window of either park with a certified copy of the child's birth certificate.

Florida residents can purchase a 2012 Fun Pass for the price of a one-day ticket to Busch Gardens.  So, if you are the parent of a child 5 or younger, you can pay for one day's admission for the adults and older children in the family, get your younger kids their Preschool Passes, and enjoy the fun of Busch Gardens for the rest of the year!  For more information, to purchase your Florida Resident Fun Pass, or to register for the Preschool Pass, visit http://seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-tampa.

Dress for Success - S.O.S. Weekend

Ladies!  Have a gently-used business suit that you just don't need anymore?  Maybe it doesn't fit right, or you've retired or changed jobs and that suit is just taking up valuable real estate in your closet.  If so, take it by any Dress Barn location this weekend (March 1-4, 2012) for the Dress for Success S.O.S. (Send One Suit) Weekend!

Dress for Success is a is an international not-for-profit organization offering services designed to help their clients find jobs and remain employed. Each Dress for Success client receives one suit when she has a job interview and can return for a second suit or separates when she finds work.   For more information, visit their website at www.dressforsuccess.org.

AARP Foundation Women's Scholarship Call for Applicants

The AARP Foundation Women's Scholarship Program is helping win back opportunity for low-income, 50+ women by funding education, training, and skills upgrades that can lead to better employment and increased financial security for women and their families.

Since 2007, The AARP Foundation Women's Scholarship Program has awarded scholarships to more than 800 eligible women — facilitating their entry into programs they could otherwise not afford, and ultimately assisting in their recession recovery efforts.

The scholarship program is made possible by AARP Foundation with generous support from Walmart Foundation and AARP.

The scholarship application period for the 2012-2013 academic year will last from Wednesday, February 1, 2012, at 9 a.m. CST until Friday March 30, 2012, at 5 p.m. CDT.

For more information and to apply, click HERE.