Headlines for Thursday, March 11, 2010

Fire-fighters

By Katie Sanders, Times Staff Writer 
Thursday, March 11, 2010
LEALMAN — Authorities say a fire at a vacant house near Interstate 275 may have started in an air conditioning unit in the attic.The fire is not considered suspicious, Lealman Capt. Larry Thompson said. No one was injured.Firefighters from Lealman and St. Petersburg responded to fire at 6201 25th St. N. at about 5:45 p.m. Wednesday. Smoke and flames were coming from the roof, which later collapsed, officials said.Firefighters had the blaze under control in about 25 minutes. An investigation continues.Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/tampabaycom">This Just In</a> on Twitter.
Vacant house fire in Lealman may have started in attic air conditioner

By Katie Sanders, Times Staff Writer 
Thursday, March 11, 2010
LEALMAN — Authorities say a fire at a vacant house near Interstate 275 may have started in an air conditioning unit in the attic.The fire is not considered suspicious, Lealman Capt. Larry Thompson said. No one was injured.Firefighters from Lealman and St. Petersburg responded to fire at 6201 25th St. N. at about 5:45 p.m. Wednesday. Smoke and flames were coming from the roof, which later collapsed, officials said.Firefighters had the blaze under control in about 25 minutes. An investigation continues.Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/tampabaycom">This Just In</a> on Twitter.
Deputies identify drivers in Madeira Beach fatal crash

By Katie Sanders, Times Staff Writer 
Thursday, March 11, 2010
<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/DSC02649_111761a.jpg"><img title="Photo by BARRY MAJESKE" alt="Photo by BARRY MAJESKE" src="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/DSC02649_111761a.jpg" border="0" /></a> Dana A. Pighetti, 64, was driving this kit car Wednesday night when he was killed in a collision with an SUV as he attempted to turn onto Gulf Boulevard from 147th Avenue in Madeira Beach.
MADEIRA BEACH — Pinellas deputies said the man killed while driving a convertible on Gulf Boulevard and 147th Avenue Wednesday night was a St. Petersburg native.Dana A. Pighetti, 64, of 1135 79th St. S, was driving a convertible Lotus roadster kit car north on Gulf Boulevard when he was struck by a Saturn Vue heading west 147th Avenue. The Vue turned into the path of the roadster, deputies said.First responders performed CPR on Pighetti, who was later pronounced dead at Palms of Pasadena Hospital.The two-vehicle crash happened at 7:15 p.m. Wednesday. Deputies said early Thursday that further investigation led them to change how they originally said the crash happened.Deputies identified Gerald McNulty, 74, of Ontario, Canada, as the driver of the Saturn Vue. They said McNulty's wife and another Ontario couple were passengers of the SUV.The crash remains under investigation.Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/tampabaycom">This Just In</a> on Twitter.
SUV in two hit-and-run crashes in Plant City was stolen, owner says

By Kim Wilmath, Times Staff Writer 
Thursday, March 11, 2010
PLANT CITY — An SUV involved in a pair of hit-and-run crashes Wednesday night was reported stolen by the owner soon after the accidents, authorities said.Four people injured in the accidents on County Road 39 have been identified, but the identities of two people who died and the driver who fled are still unknown.The first accident happened at 9:40 p.m. near Holloway Road, north of S.R. 60, said FHP spokesman Sgt. Larry Kraus.A Ford Taurus was headed east on Holloway Road and a Ford F-250 was southbound on C.R. 39, Kraus said.Witnesses told troopers the truck ran a stop sign and collided with the Taurus as it crossed C.R. 39. The Taurus driver and passenger were thrown from the car and pronounced dead at the scene, Kraus said.The F-250 driver, 39-year-old Alan W. Nobles, was taken to Tampa General Hospital in critical condition. His passenger, 37-year-old Kelly A. Nobles, was in serious condition at TGH. Both are from Wimauma.After that crash, Kraus said, a southbound 1996 Ford Explorer hit the front of the Taurus and kept going.About a mile later, at McDonald Road, the Explorer turned left into the path of a northbound 2003 Toyota Corolla, Kraus said.The Corolla driver, 41-year-old Rosie Gomez, and her passenger, 80-year-old Luisa Gomez, both of Plant City, were taken to Lakeland Regional Hospital in critical condition.The Explorer driver abandoned the vehicle before troopers arrived.The SUV is owned by a woman who lives nearby and called 911 to report it stolen just as sheriff's deputies arrived at her house to investigate the crash, Kraus said.Witnesses saw a man run from the crash, but did not provide a complete description, Kraus said. The man was likely injured, he said."The Explorer took two pretty good hits," Kraus said. Troopers checked local hospitals, have no suspects. "It's frustrating for us. We wish we had more." He asked that anyone who sees any suspicious activity, such as an apparently injured man walking in the area, to call authorities. Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/tampabaycom">This Just In</a> on Twitter.
Plant City police launch homicide investigation

By Katie Sanders, Times Staff Writer 
Thursday, March 11, 2010
PLANT CITY — Police launched a homicide investigation after finding an unidentified man dead in a home on E Warren Street late Wednesday.Police have no suspects, and the cause of death has not been determined, according to Plant City police.Police went to a house at 1107 E Warren St. to check on a 60-year-old black man who lives there. When they arrived about 11:53 p.m., they said they found a man dead.Police did not say if the dead man was the 60-year-old owner.Police asked anyone with information to call (813)757-9200.No further information was available.Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/tampabaycom">This Just In</a> on Twitter.
Hillsborough commission has all the makings for one big mess

By Ernest Hooper, Metro Columnist 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Polygraph results, refusals to resign and a lawyer representing a lawyer.If my 8-year-old mopped the floor with syrup, flour, olives and grape juice, she couldn't create a bigger mess than what currently exists in Hillsborough County government.And cleaning it up will require more than paper towels or a demand for resignations. The commissioners need savvy diplomacy and shrewd decisions, or risk paying hefty severance packages and creating more muck. …Maybe constantly droning about Marco Rubio's spa expenses will help Gov. Charlie Crist make up ground in polls, but if it does, it says more about the voters' lack of sophistication than it does about Rubio. I would rather hear about his record, but there isn't much to hear. …Former Times columnist Mary Jo Melone and co-author Art Keeble hold a signing for their new book, Baseball Was My Life: Stories from West Tampa, at the West Tampa Sandwich Shop Saturday at 3 p.m.Melone said the book chronicles how baseball served as top entertainment for West Tampa back in the 1960s, and added it's as much about the community's history as it is about the sport. I'm sure it'll be a fun read. …Seen on a bumper sticker: Toenails Are For Sissies. …The Humane Society of Tampa Bay officially renames its pet food bank Casper's Cupboard today after a white boxer who became emaciated after owners intentionally neglected him. Now he's recovered and his former owners will be sentenced Friday. …Readers have established Houdini as an early favorite for the monkey that continues to elude officials in Pinellas County. Also receiving votes: Opie and Monty.That's all I'm saying.
GOP steps back as Bill Young steps up

By David DeCamp, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/b4s_young0311_111723a.jpg"><img title="" alt="" src="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/b4s_young0311_111723a.jpg" border="0" /></a> Rep. C.W. Bill Young’s re-election bid has few challengers.
CLEARWATER — U.S. Rep. C.W. Bill Young is forcing a lot of fellow Republican politicians to sit on the bench. Again.Ever since Young, 79, confirmed at a Republican Party fundraiser Feb. 20 that he's going for term No. 21 in the U.S. House, other Republicans have resigned themselves to waiting another year for their shot at Congress.Among those poised to run: Clearwater Mayor Frank Hibbard and County Commissioner Karen Seel. A pair of former aides, Clearwater City Council member George Cretekos and lobbyist David Jolly, also were mentioned. County Commissioner John Morroni's name came up, though his recent battle to overcome cancer caused him to shoot down serious thoughts.Young now faces a tea party styled newcomer, Eric Forcade of Palm Harbor, in the Republican primary.Seel downplayed the lost opportunity, saying she has plenty of work to do locally. Plus, she said, Young has succeeded in Congress and she never seriously made an effort to run."It's just been a gut feeling that he would continue," Seel said.For Republican leaders, the dashed ambitions of the would-be successors' pale against another backdrop: opening up a seat that has been in Republican hands for five decades against state Sen. Charlie Justice, D-St Petersburg.Despite paltry fundraising in late 2009, Young entered this year with $396,000 on hand. A newcomer would have had a late start at raising money."It's been almost six decades that Republicans have held that seat — they didn't want to spend a penny on that race that could be used in other places," said Darryl Paulson, a retired political scientist from the University of South Florida.In fact, some Republicans started sensing Young was running again at a December holiday party. At the Republican dinner last month, Young contributed $40,000, worth four tables, for the event, chairman J.J. Beyrouti said, noting that Young really needed no support from the party to campaign."I don't think anyone in this county can fill Bill Young's shoes," Republican consultant Jack Latvala, who is running for Justice's seat, said to cheers at a county GOP meeting Monday night.Plus, local Republicans risked other races.Seel and Hibbard's posts could open, triggering jockeying in their Clearwater areas, for example. Cretekos and newly elected City Council member Bill Jonson are possible candidates to be mayor.Key to Young's support in GOP ranks is his success bringing federal money for buildings, roads and other spending in Pinellas. That penchant, however, is exactly what Justice hopes to use to oust him. The goal is to engage Young, who traditionally avoids debates with opponents, on his own record."Young has had a long history of not wanting to debate his opponents one on one," said Paulson, who has followed Young's career. "There's going to be little opportunity to debate Young. … And how do you get your message out against a very popular congressman in this area?"Justice, 41, is trying to re-invigorate a nearly year-old bid after Young's announcement caused a spasm of conventional wisdom among national analysts that the seat was likely to remain Republican. National Democrats released the first round of their top 13 candidates as part of their "Red to Blue" effort for competitive races Wednesday. Justice, whose campaign entered the year with $91,000 on hand, wasn't on it. He acknowledged falling short of fundraising levels, but said the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee hasn't told him it's backing off after Young's decision."This race is going to be won or lost in Pinellas County, not Washington," he said. "From the very beginning, this was not about me running only if he didn't."At the Pinellas Democratic Party's Kennedy King Dinner on Feb. 27, Justice exhorted party members to help his campaign in a district Barack Obama won in 2008, in a year that's dangerous for incumbents."This district is dead even — dead even," Justice said afterward. "He has not had a real race in, can we say, ever?"Justice has begun a running list of "indictments" of Young's earmarks, This week's hit: Young received $145,000 in donations since 2006 from tenants at the county's STAR Center industrial complex, after writing in $33 million in federal spending for it. That includes $100,000 with ties to Raytheon, which is embroiled in a contamination case in St. Petersburg.But Paulson and Republicans warn that a local earmark looks a lot different outside the county than it does inside."The widening of U.S. 19 is an earmark. Do people really not want U.S. 19 widened?" Latvala said.David DeCamp can be reached at ddecamp@sptimes.com or (727) 893-8779.
North Pinellas calendar of events

By Nova Beall, Times staff writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
TodayTeens ages 13-18 with an interest in art are invited to attend a beginner course on watercolor techniques starting at 6 p.m. today, Mar. 18 and 25 at Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave. Space is limited. Sign up in person only. A $5 nonrefundable materials fee is due at sign up. Call (727) 784-3332, ext. 3006.Today"Armchair Travelers" series: Join experienced world travelers as they share their adventures in Alaska at 2 p.m. at Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave. Call (727) 784-3332, ext. 3006.Meet the artist: Enjoy free "Coffee and Conversation" with Karen Baker, an award-winning artist, at noon at Dunedin Fine Art Center, 1143 Michigan Ave. Call (727) 298-3322 or visit dfac.org.Meet the author: Bill South will discuss his new mystery novel, Flash Drive, at 6:30 p.m. at Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. Call (727) 784-3332, ext. 3006.Thursday night bingo: Games begin at 7 p.m. at Tarpon Springs Yacht Club, 350 N Spring Blvd. Call (727) 934-2136.Genealogy help: Members of the Caladesi Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, are available to assist the public with genealogy research from 1-3 p.m. Thursdays at Dunedin Public Library, 223 Douglas Ave. No appointment necessary. Call (727) 733-5383.Harvest marketplace: Outdoor shopping offers fresh produce, specialty foods, green goods, original creations and live music, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday at Ulmer Park, 301 West Bay Drive, Largo. Call (727) 587-6740, ext. 5015.Safety Harbor Farmers Market: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every Thursday at the Gazebo at John Wilson Park, 401 Main St., featuring fresh and organic produce, plants and flowers, gourmet foods, baked goods, jewelry, light snacks and more. Call Bob Fernandez at (727) 461-7674.Learn about Zumba: Rita Ballard, instructor with Flava Fitness Studio, will be the guest speaker at a 6 p.m. meeting of the Kiwanis Club of Springtime City at Clearwater Country Club, 525 N Betty Lane. Call (727) 725-7549 or visit kiwanis.org/club/springtimecity.FridayLegendary musical: Eight O'Clock Theatre presents Gypsy, the tale of a relentless stage mother traveling the country with her two daughters, opening at 8 p.m. at Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, 8 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturday, with 2 p.m. matinees Sunday through March 28. $26 adults, $16 students age 19 and younger with ID. Call (727) 587-6793 or visit LargoArts.com. Battle of the bands: Some of the best local talent will take the stage in the third annual competition from 5-10 p.m. at Largo Community Center, 65 Fourth St. For details, call Craig Dolan at (727) 518-3146 or e-mail cdolan@largo.com.Shamrock'n Run/Walk: Largo presents the Shamrock'n Run 5K and 1.5-mile walk, 7-10 p.m. at Ulmer Park, 301 West Bay Drive. Registration begins at 5:30; pre-registration available. The event includes post-race meal, refreshments, award ceremony and music by Buffalo Strange. Call (727) 587-6740, ext. 5016.Popular musical: Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, will be performed at 8 p.m. Friday, Saturday, March 19, 20, 26 and 27; and 2 p.m. Sunday, March 21 and 28 at Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St. Tickets: $16, $14 members, $12 students. Call (727) 942-5605.Colonial ancestry: The Berkeley Plantation Chapter, National Society Colonial Dames XVII Century will meet at noon at Stacey's Buffet, 1451 S Missouri Ave., Clearwater. Any woman age 18 or older who is interested in colonial research and is a lineal descendant of someone who lived and served prior to 1701 in the original 13 colonies is invited to attend. Call (727) 733-5383.Fish dinner: The Knights of Columbus offers baked or fried fish dinners with all the trimmings, 4-7 p.m. every Friday through April 2 at 1251 San Christopher Drive, Dunedin. $8 per person. Call (727) 365-2582.Jam session: Bring a lawn chair, musical instrument or just sing along with the Snow Birds, musicians who come from all points north, for country jams, from 1-3 p.m. every Friday through April 9 at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N, Largo. Parking available on 125th Street. Call (727) 582-2123.Sunset Sounds: Unwind with family and friends at this free music series, 7-9 p.m. the second Friday of each month at Ulmer Park, 301 West Bay Drive, Largo. For information, call (727) 587-6740, ext. 5014 or visit Largo Events.com.Dunedin's Green Market: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Friday until the end of April in Pioneer Park, at Main Street and Douglas Avenue. Market features produce, cheese, seafood, plants and herbs, honey, organic products and more. Call Richard Kendler at (727) 733-4215.SaturdayMarket in the park: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. every Saturday through April 17 at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St., Largo. At least 36 vendors will offer fresh produce, seafood, honey, all-natural pet treats, hot sauces, crafts and more. Pinellas County Extension will provide several educational booths. Call market manager Richard Kendler at (727) 733-4215.Second Saturday event: An Art Walk is scheduled from noon-4 p.m. on the sidewalks along Tarpon Avenue in the historic downtown area of Tarpon Springs. The event features artists painting, showing and selling their work; strolling musicians; a face painter; caricaturist; and special restaurant offerings. Call Heather at (727) 937-7125.Mobile collection: A household electronics/chemical collection event will be from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at Clearwater Home Depot, 2495 Gulf-To-Bay Blvd. No walkups. Free for Pinellas County residents; businesses pay reduced fees. For more information, contact Pinellas County Utilities at (727) 464-7500 or visit pinellascounty.org/utilities.Feel the beat: A Latin dancing program taught by Alfredo Esteves featuring bachata and zumba for teens ages 14-20 will be at 3 p.m. at Clearwater East Library, 2251 Drew St. Free. Call (727) 562-4970.Backgammon tournament: Tampa Bay Backgammon Club will host a tournament at Hampton Inn & Suites, 39284 U.S. 19 N, Tarpon Springs. For times and registration, call (727) 743-0500.Junk in the trunk: Sellers will fill their automobile trunks and offer items for sale from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Safety Harbor Community Center, 650 Ninth Ave. Call (727) 724-1530.Meet the artist: Meet Russian-born artist Maya Eventov and view her work from 6-8 p.m. at Syd Entel Galleries, 247 Main St., Safety Harbor. Call (727) 725-1808.Beach bird walk: Join the Clearwater Audubon Society on a bird walk at 8 a.m. at Dunedin's Honeymoon Island State Park. Meet behind the McDonald's at the corner of Alt. U.S. 19 and Curlew Road. Park entry fees: $8 per vehicle with 2-8 people; $4 for single occupant vehicle. Call John Hood at (727) 461-4762.Clearwater Bomber Day: Former members of the world championship fast-pitch softball team will meet and greet fans, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Plumb House Museum, 1380 S Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Clearwater. Call Dean Robinson at (727) 442-9011.Learn to paint roses: An acrylic painting class on the subject of roses will be at 1 p.m. at East Lake Community Library, 4125 East Lake Road. To register, call (727) 773-2665.Nature walk: Explore the outdoors on a guided nature walk, 9-10:30 a.m. at Chesnut Park, 2200 East Lake Road. Visit points along Brooker Creek and enjoy the view of Lake Tarpon. Registration required. Call (727) 669-1951.
Slain Zephyrhills Correctional prisoner had killed deputy

By Erin Sullivan, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/deputyjosephgassman_111715a.jpg"><img title="Special to the Times" alt="Special to the Times" src="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/deputyjosephgassman_111715a.jpg" border="0" /></a> Escambia County Sheriff's Office Deputy Joseph Gassman had been on the job about 10 years when he was killed at 56 by Augustus King.

ZEPHYRHILLS — Augustus King spent 44 years in prison for murdering a deputy in Escambia County in 1966.

On the evening of Feb. 28, King was killed by his cellmate at Zephyrhills Correctional Institution. He was 68.

"Thank goodness," said Fred Gassman, the son of slain deputy Joseph Gassman. "It's just 44 years too late."

Gassman had been a deputy for nearly a decade when he was killed at age 56. His son said he was good with people, liked telling stories and jokes, and he knew everybody in town. Serving warrants was his specialty — getting people to tell him where fugitives were hiding. That's what he was doing on Jan. 30, 1966 — finding Augustus King, wanted on an aggravated assault charge.

King stabbed him several times and ran.

Gassman's wife, Mary, never moved from their house in Pensacola, never remarried and visited her husband's grave often. She died last year at 95.

Fred Gassman is now 72. His older brother, Joe, is dead. He has a younger brother, Richard.

Gassman said King's case went to trial twice — first getting the death sentence, but changed to life in prison on appeal. Then, a few decades ago, King was up for parole. Gassman, who still lives in Pensacola, said he and his family would make the 200-mile trip to Tallahassee every few years to make sure King stayed in prison.

His last trip was in February.

King's parole was denied.

The Florida Department of Corrections said the inmate who killed King was James J. Hugger, a 52-year-old serving a 15-year sentence for attempted murder.

Preliminary information indicated King died from asphyxiation.

The department has not released any other details about the killing. The medical examiner performed an autopsy and the case is still under investigation, agency spokeswoman Gretl Plessinger said.

King's family hasn't been notified of his death because the Department of Corrections can't find them.

"We've given up," Plessinger said Wednesday.

Plessinger said King's emergency contacts — his mother and father — are both dead.

He had one visitor since the prisons computerized their system decades ago: a cousin named Jerome, who saw King in 2009. The cousin cannot be located, Plessinger said.

Inmates submit a list of people they would like to see to staff, who then approve the visitors once those people contact the Department of Corrections, wishing to see the inmate.

King had his wife, Marva, and daughter, Dorothy, on his list. Plessinger said neither visited, at least since the computerized system went into effect.

King had a history of discipline problems — feigning illness, threats, possessing weapons, assault — and was transferred 14 times between seven prisons. He had been living at the Zephyrhills Correctional Institution since 2007, his second time at the prison.

His body will be shipped back to where he began at age 24, his first prison, Union Correctional Institution in Raiford — where his alleged killer, Hugger, now sits in solitary confinement.

King will be buried at the inmate cemetery. A chaplain will conduct a short prayer. Those in attendance will be any inmates working on the cemetery grounds who happen to be close by.

Times researcher Shirl Kennedy contributed to this story. Erin Sullivan can be reached at esullivan@sptimes.com or (727) 869-6229.
Retired Clearwater police Officer John Welch was a stickler to rules

By Andrew Meacham, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/b4s_welch0311_111710a.jpg"><img title="" alt="" src="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/b4s_welch0311_111710a.jpg" border="0" /></a> 
CLEARWATER — As soon as he stepped inside his home, Officer John Welch took his shoes off. He set his keys and wallet on the table just inside the door.The gun went into a locked cabinet. The belt landed on his dresser; the hat on a closet shelf.He repeated these same steps over nearly 20 years as a Clearwater police officer. "There is a place for everything, and everything belongs in its place," Mr. Welch told his children.But some things could not be so neatly put away. Mr. Welch survived an explosion in the Navy that killed fellow seamen. He escaped other dangerous situations as a firefighter and police officer. His family suspects some of those experiences left scars.Mr. Welch, whose traumatic experiences made him a stickler for rules and routines — sometimes to a fault — died March 1 of lung cancer. He was 75.Mr. Welch was below deck on the U.S.S. Bennington in 1954 when a catapult exploded. The blast set off other explosions, killing 103 crewmen and injuring 201 in one of the worst peacetime disasters in marine history."From then on he was very claustrophobic," said his daughter, Terese Hilliard.Out of the Navy, Mr. Welch married and had children in New York. He worked for Mobil and volunteered as a firefighter. He wanted to be a police officer there, but he was considered too short at 5 feet 7, his family said.In 1964, a burning furniture store collapsed on top of him while he was in the basement. He was hospitalized as much for psychological damage as physical. "The sounds, the water and the darkness absolutely panicked him to no end," said Hilliard, 52.Mr. Welch moved to Florida in 1968 to join the Clearwater Police Department, which had no height restriction.He wrote reams of parking tickets — so many that police Chief Sid Klein took away his summons book in 1985, citing his "lack of judgmental ability in the reasonable enforcement of parking violations."In the mid 1980s, Mr. Welch was entered into a psychiatric hospital. He applied for a disability pension on his release, saying he lacked the confidence to carry a gun anymore. The request eventually succeeded.Mr. Welch seemed to find contentment over the last decade, in part through a new set of routines. Every day at 3 p.m., he drove a golf cart to Eternal Rest Memory Park to visit his wife's grave. He always brought peanuts for the squirrels.His daughter believes the traumas he suffered earlier in his life contributed to his strict and sometimes unreasonable adherence to rules and routines."Life was always about fulfilling his duties," she said. "A lot of the time, he was very black-and-white. It was kind of hard for him to look at those gray areas."
Pasco man accused of sex attack on disabled victim

 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
SHADY HILLSMan accused of sex attack on disabled victimA 45-year-old man is accused of raping a mentally disabled woman. Kenneth S. Brown, of 16916 Jetson Drive, was arrested Tuesday and is charged with sexual battery. The victim, who is 24 but has the mental awareness of a 12-year-old child, has cerebral palsy and epilepsy, says a report from the Pasco County Sheriff's Office. The happened between January and June 2008. Kevin Doll, spokesman for the Sheriff's Office, said the victim told someone about what happened, which prompted the investigation. Brown, who told authorities he is a maintenance mechanic for Reddy Ice in Plant City, was held in the Pasco County Jail in lieu of $200,000 bail.HUDSONTwo arrested after drug snatchingThe pharmacist refilled the prescriptions of oxycodone, OxyContin and Xanax, then noticed the refills weren't allowed for another week. Authorities say Ben B. Kaminsky, 32, didn't want to wait. As the pharmacist called the doctor's office Friday to doublecheck the refill dates, Kaminsky grabbed the medications from Doctor's Choice Pharmacy at 8811 State Road 52 and ran, says a report from the Pasco County Sheriff's Office. Deputies found him Tuesday in bed at the Suncoast Motel when they came looking for his roommate, Melissa Clary, 26, on a charge of trafficking oxycodone. Kaminsky, who lives at 8721 Scrimshaw Drive in New Port Richey, and Clary were both arrested. Kaminsky, who has served two stints in prison for drugs and theft, is charged with grand theft and failure to appear in court on driving with a suspended or revoked license. He was held at the Pasco County Jail in lieu of $2,513 bail. Clary, who lives at 14920 U.S. 19 in Hudson, was held in lieu of $200,000 bail.
Sen. Fasano seeks $750,000 for health care clinic

By Steve Bousquet, Times/Herald Tallahassee Bureau 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The Legislature is staring at a $3.2 billion deficit, but state Sen. Mike Fasano has tentatively lined up $750,000 for a health care clinic in the regional hurricane shelter that bears his name.Fasano, who chairs the Senate Transportation and Economic Development Appropriations Committee, has given preliminary approval to spend about $2 million for hurricane shelters and cultural facilities in several districts. That includes $750,000 for the Mike Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter in Hudson.It's still early in the budget process, however, and the funding requests must ultimately survive the governor's veto pen."There are member projects every year. You know that," said Fasano, R-New Port Richey. "I don't have any problem telling somebody that I wanted to fund a community health facility that will help the uninsured and the underinsured."Construction finished last year on the $7.5-million shelter on Denton Avenue, which is designed to house up to 1,000 evacuees from Pasco and Hernando counties in the event of a hurricane. The 37,000-square-foot facility will also house a clinic by Premier Community HealthCare Group to provide year-round health care to the indigent.The $750,000 line item surfaced for the first time Wednesday as "Regional Hurricane Shelter, Pasco County Community Health Center.""The dollars are to be used to help start up the Premier clinic," Fasano said.Premier lost out on a federal grant last year to get the clinic up and running."It was quite disappointing to a lot of us," Fasano said.Premier needs at least $350,000 for equipment and other start-up costs, as well as money to operate the facility. The clinic hopes to get some of the medical equipment donated by a facility for the developmentally disabled that is closing in Ocala, Fasano said.The $750,000 from the state would get Premier going for a year to 18 months, Fasano said. The clinic would then apply for federal grants to continue operating.Fasano said the clinic would be an important everyday resource and a vital amenity in an emergency."God forbid, if we ever have a major hurricane, there will be a clinic to serve people there as well," Fasano said.Fasano said a hearing today would provide a full public airing for other member projects in the districts of Sen. Paula Dockery, R-Lakeland, and Tony Hill, D-Jacksonville.
Questions about legality don't deter Port Richey from adding red-light cameras.

By Drew Harwell, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/her_redlight031110_111703a.jpg"><img title="WILL VRAGOVIC | Times (2009)" alt="WILL VRAGOVIC | Times (2009)" src="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/her_redlight031110_111703a.jpg" border="0" /></a> Red-light cameras, like these installed at Dr. M.L. King Jr. Boulevard and Broad Street in Brooksville, are being challenged in Florida’s courtrooms and the state Legislature.
PORT RICHEY — A South Florida judge ruled against them. A state representative moved to ban them. A company that installs them even had concerns.But the opposition to red-light cameras hasn't slowed the Port Richey City Council, which on Tuesday voted for more cameras, more monitored intersections and a decadelong contract to continue the controversial system.The city began using the cameras two years ago, becoming the third in the state behind Apopka and Gulf Breeze to watch for red-light runners and mail out fines to the vehicles' registered owners.The council saw the camera network as an easy sell, believing it could deter dangerous driving, reserve police officers for patrol and tame what American Traffic Solutions representatives had called some of the worst intersections in the country.It didn't hurt that fines, now at $150 per violation, would earn about $250,000 for the city's general fund within the system's first 18 months of operation.But the city hit its first speed bump when ATS representatives clashed with then-City Manager Richard Reade, who said ATS had been "dragging their feet" in installing new cameras, City Attorney Michael Brannigan said. ATS backed out of its contract in August 2008, and the cameras were removed.A second agreement, signed last year, allowed Traffipax to install new red-light cameras while taking a $35 cut per fine, $5 cheaper than ATS had charged. But the five-year deal began to unravel when Traffipax asked to delay new installations until questions of the cameras' legality had been answered."Our position on that is, that's not part of our contract," Brannigan said. "We consider that a breach of agreement."City staff wanted something quicker and opted to back out of its contract with Traffipax."We've been limping along on this public safety issue," City Manager Ellen Posivach said Tuesday. "This is unacceptable."The city contacted ATS and offered it a new 10-year contract to install six cameras at the company's expense. ATS, which manages 60 contracts statewide, was "happy to step back in," spokeswoman Bethany R. Leytham wrote in an e-mail to the St. Petersburg Times.The city's camera coverage under the deal will expand to intersections at U.S. 19 and Grand Boulevard, U.S. 19 and Ridge Road, and Ridge Road and Leo Kidd Avenue.But challenges to the cameras' legality remain. A Miami-Dade judge last month ruled that Aventura could not issue fines based solely on video footage. More than a dozen similar lawsuits have been filed statewide, including a class-action suit in Temple Terrace. And in Tallahassee, a state representative has proposed a ban on the cameras, calling them an extra tax meant to pump up budgets, not protect drivers.Another proposed bill, which passed a House committee Tuesday, would allow and standardize the cameras' use statewide. But even that could prove an obstacle to Port Richey's plans, the council said, because it would split the ticketed revenue among health care facilities and the state and earn the city $35 less per fine."Having cameras already up before legislation is passed would be a huge advantage," City Council member Perry Bean said. The long-term contract could be leverage, council members said, allowing the city's agreement to be grandfathered into law.Though state support could cut into their profits, Brannigan said it could bring one benefit: stronger enforcement. Using the unmanned cameras, Port Richey police are only allowed to issue citations for breaking city statute, not traffic tickets for breaking state law. That means only the city's 3,500 residents face a lien penalty for nonpayment.Traffipax is operating one camera at Richey Drive near U.S. 19, producing about one clear violation a day, police Lt. Don Young said. Previously under ATS, which had a camera pointed at southbound U.S. 19 traffic near Ridge Road, police had been seeing about 80 red-light violations a day.About 70 percent of those fines have been paid, Young said, and the city has begun talking with collection agencies to drum up more.ATS predicts its new cameras, beginning with the southbound lanes of U.S. 19 at Ridge Road, will be online within a few weeks.Council member Steven O'Neill said he was excited about the new cameras and ending the "completely bobbled" deal with Traffipax.And of the criticism levied at the cameras?"I don't think anything of it," Posivach said. "People can say anything they want."Drew Harwell can be reached at dharwell@sptimes.com or (727) 869-6244.
Accusations fly after Chasco Fiesta rejects the Pasco Republicans' application for a float

By Jodie Tillman, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
NEW PORT RICHEY — They envisioned a parade float decked in red, white and blue. A backdrop painted with their name and an elephant to illustrate their GOP theme.But this week Pasco Republicans learned their application for a spot in the March 20 Chasco Fiesta street parade had been rejected by event organizers.Bill Bunting, Pasco state committeeman, smelled "a political coverup," and he hurled a name at Chasco executive director Wendy Brenner:Democrat."She's playing partisan politics with this," Bunting said.One problem:"I'm a Republican, for Pete's sake!" Brenner said. (Indeed, county records show she is a registered Republican.)Brenner, a former New Port Richey mayor, said this week that she rejected the float because it was "political."Rules for this year's parade, which has a carnevale theme, say floats aren't permitted if they reflect a political campaign, social issues or targeted special interest groups.Local Republicans say they were not going to push any particular candidate on their float.Brenner said this wording in the application gave the parade committee pause: "State Party GOP agenda.""What am I supposed to read into that?" she said. "I can't assume it's anything other than political."Bunting, when he was told that Brenner is a registered Republican, was not fazed: "Then why does she act like a Democrat? I find this offensive to every Republican in Pasco County."Lona O'Reilly, a Republican state committeewoman who had planned to help decorate the float along with her daughter, was equally perturbed."What's our country come to? This is insanity!" she said. "Maybe we need to appoint a czar for Chasco Fiesta to figure out why people's voices can't be heard."Plenty of local elected officials take part in the Chasco parade, though organizers say their purpose is more as dignitaries than campaigners. This year's marshal is Kurt Browning, former Pasco elections supervisor and now secretary of state.Bunting and O'Reilly, as GOP state committee members elected by the voters of their party, say they should qualify in that regard, as well."Bill and I are elected officials," O'Reilly said. "The (Republican voters) put us in those positions."Brenner said she doesn't think that qualifies as an elected official. "He's elected by his party," she said of Bunting.On Wednesday, Bunting got the official rejection notice in the mail, along with his $100 entry fee.But don't expect to see him watching the parade go by. He said he has a political debate he's going to attend that day.Jodie Tillman can be reached at jtillman@sptimes.com or (727) 869-6247.
Brooksville man, 72, accused of molesting, sending suggestive e-mails, to teen

 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
BROOKSVILLEMan, 72, accused of molesting, e-mailing teenA 72-year-old man was accused of lewd behavior toward a teenage girl and allegedly sent the girl sexually suggestive e-mails, authorities say. A Hernando County Sheriff's report gives this account: Billie Earl Futrell of Brooksville allegedly molested the girl on two occasions, and later, he gave her gifts and money. In August 2009, he sent her suggestive e-mails. Futrell was arrested Tuesday at the Sheriff's Office on counts of lewd and lascivious molestation and of transmission of material harmful to minors to a minor by electronic device or equipment.Participate in Young Child eventParticipants and sponsors are needed for the Week of the Young Child event that will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 27 at the Jerome Brown Community Center, 99 Jerome Brown Place. The annual event, sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families. It will include entertainment, activities and food. Registration for participants and sponsors are needed by Friday. For details or a registration form, call Jenna Davis at (352) 540-9335, ext. 4058, or (352) 410-1156.PINE ISLANDBark Island event is set for March 20Hernando County Parks and Recreation Department invites dogs and their owners to the final Bark Island event from 8 to 10 a.m. March 20 at Pine Island, 10800 Pine Island Drive. Proof of current vaccination records is required for pets to enter. Admission is $5 per vehicle or walkup patron. Owners are reminded to pick up after their pets and keep a leash on hand. For information, call (352) 754-4031.SPRING LAKEGet chili, drink and bread for $3A Chili Cook-Off will be from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Spring Lake Community Center, 4814 Spring Lake Highway, east of Brooksville. Judges include Hernando County Commission members James Adkins, John Druzbick, David Russell and Jeff Stabins, and Pastor Todd Stube of Spring Lake United Methodist Church. The cost will be $3 for a bowl of chili, drink and bread. For information, call Pat Hernandez at (352) 799-5957 or George Lee at (352) 796-4704.Today's picks"Hand 'n Hand" ESE student art exhibit reception: 4-5:30 p.m., Rising Sun Cafe, 10 S Main St., Brooksville. (813) 558-1144."In His Footsteps" soup and sandwich outreach program: Noon-2 p.m., St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 13485 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. Free lunch provided. (352) 686-2857.Let's Hang On concert: 7 p.m., Brookridge clubhouse, 8150 Hampton St., Brookridge. $15. (352) 597-4620.Library to show '13 Going on 30': 2 p.m., Spring Hill Branch/Harold G. Zopp Memorial Library, 9220 Spring Hill Drive. Rated PG-13. Free. (352) 540-6391.
Brooksville Junior Service League gives two teens the Cinderella treatment for prom

By Will Vragovic, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/her_kay031110_111698a.jpg"><img title="WILL VRAGOVIC | Times" alt="WILL VRAGOVIC | Times" src="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/her_kay031110_111698a.jpg" border="0" /></a> Patricia Lambright helps Kaydias Slaughter try on jewelry Friday at Patricia’s Boutique in Brooksville. Slaughter, 18, is a Hernando High senior who was picked this year for the Brooksville Junior Service League’s “Cinderella’s Prom” package.
BROOKSVILLE — Shannon Slaughter remembers getting the phone call from her daughter, Kaydias. "She called me from the (school) office and she was crying,'' she said. "I couldn't tell what she was talking about for a minute." Kaydias thought that she might have been in trouble when she was called to the Hernando High School office. But, instead, the news was wonderful: Kaydias, 18, was going to be a Cinderella.Kaydias and Atabey Calderon of Springstead High School have been selected as this year's winners of a "Cinderella's Prom" by the Brooksville Junior Service League, which has been making prom dreams come true in Hernando County for four years.The Cinderellas are chosen by their school guidance counselors based on academics, community service and circumstances. The Cinderella package includes a dress, shoes and accessories from Patricia's Boutique, and the girls will have their hair and nails done by Debbie's Hair Gallery. The cost of the prom tickets is also covered, though Slaughter already earned a free ticket from the school for doing service work."The only thing we don't provide is the date," said Patricia Lambright, owner of the boutique.Slaughter said that she doesn't have a date for the March 26 prom at Silverthorn Country Club but will be hanging out with her friends at the dance. Springstead High's prom is also on March 26.Lambright said she didn't want the girls to get a used dress or something from a clearance rack. "I wanted it to be brand new and I wanted to let them choose a dress," she said. "I wanted the Cinderella to have the best and that's what we do here.''Like many families, Shannon Slaughter said, they live paycheck to paycheck, and she was not sure how they would have gotten Kaydias to the prom had she not been selected. "As far as dresses, we probably would've been in the thrift shops," she said.Hearing this, Lambright started to tear up. "Now it's my turn to cry," she said.
Free meal Sunday at Hernando County Senior Citizens Club

Times staff 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
SPRING HILLGet a free meal Sunday at Senior Citizens ClubPeople Helping People of Hernando will serve free meals to individuals and families in need from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday at the Hernando County Senior Citizens Club, 7925 Rhanbuoy Road.Meals are served on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. People Helping People is a local interfaith, nonprofit organization. Volunteers and donations are welcome. For information, call (352) 573-4178. HERNANDO/PASCO COUNTYFestival Singers set spring concert seriesThe Nature Coast Festival Singers will present its Spring Concert at the following locations:• 3 p.m. Sunday, Nativity Lutheran Church, 6363 Commercial Way, Weeki Wachee.• 3 p.m. March 21, St. Mark's Presbyterian Church, 7922 State Road 52, Hudson.• 3 p.m. March 28, Spring Hill United Church of Christ, 4244 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill.The chorus, which includes nearly 80 voices from three counties, performs a variety of music from classical to contemporary. The concert will include Haydn's Missa brevis as well as other pieces. The director is James Urbanski.There is no cost to attend. A free-will offering will be accepted to support the Ayer Endowment Fund, which provides scholarships for music education from elementary through college level.For information, call Sandy at (352) 556-3428.BROOKSVILLEChamber offers course in networking skillsThe Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce offers a networking class 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the training room at the chamber, 15588 Aviation Loop Drive, south of Brooksville.The class, designed for individuals who are shy or uncomfortable talking to strangers, will be conducted by Vince Vanni. Topics will include small-talk skills, working the room, qualities of a good networker, how to use business cards, how to follow up and business etiquette.The class is open to the public. The cost is $15 for members, $25 for nonmembers. To register, call (352) 796-0697, ext. 15.BROOKRIDGEBreakfast fundraiser and craft fair March 21The Brookridge Helping Hands will host a fundraiser pancake breakfast and craft fair from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. March 21 at the Brookridge Clubhouse, 8150 Hampton St.The breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, juice, coffee and tea. The cost is $4 for adults, $3 for children ages 5 to 11 and free for children ages 4 and younger.There will be vendors with crafts and baked goods, a silent auction and raffle. There is no admission cost to just shop.The Brookridge Helping Hands is a sewing-for-charity club that has sewed, knitted and crocheted numerous items for various organizations, such as baby items, fleece hats for military personnel to wear under their helmets, gowns and other items for hospice patients. Donations of good used patterns or colored sheets are also welcome.For information, call (352) 597-7682.RIDGE MANOR WESTLibrary offers free e-mail basics classThe Hernando County Public Library System will offer a free E-Mail Basics computer class at 9:30 a.m. March 18 at the East Hernando Branch Library, 6457 Windmere Road.This is a two-hour class that will cover e-mail terminology, etiquette and hands-on practice using Google's Gmail.There is no cost, but registration is required due to limited space. To register, call (352) 754-4443. For information, call (352) 754-4042.HERNANDO BEACHSt. Patrick's Day event set at VFW Post 9236Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9236 will host a St. Patrick's Day Celebration from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the post, 3435 Shoal Line Blvd.Corned beef and cabbage with the traditional sides will be served for $8. Entertainment will be provided by Maurice.Tickets can be purchased at the door. Call (352) 596-9236.SPRING HILLYard and bake sale will benefit ministriesFellowship Community Church will have a yard and bake sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 20 at 11250 Spring Hill Drive.All proceeds will be used for outreach ministries within the church and community. For information, call (352) 686-4612.SPRING HILLSpring rummage sale set for March 20The Women of Grace Presbyterian Church's Spring Rummage Sale is from 8 a.m. to noon March 20 at the church, 8375 Spring Hill Drive.The sale will include books, clothing, glassware, toys, jewelry, various household items and baked goods. A light lunch will be available. For information, call (352) 683-2082.SPRING HILLK of C Council 11317 selling auction ticketsThe Knights of Columbus Council 11317 will host its 15th annual auction March 27 in the parish hall at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church, 13485 Spring Hill Drive. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., and a buffet dinner will be at 6 p.m.Tickets are $12, which can be purchased at the parish office between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to noon Friday, or after weekend Masses, or by calling Barbara Stacy at (352) 684-7419. The deadline to purchase tickets is March 20.BROOKSVILLEWoman's Club marks 100th anniversaryIn celebration of its 100 year anniversary, the Greater Federation of Women's Club/Brooksville Woman's Club will host an open house celebration from 4 to 7 p.m. March 19 at the clubhouse, 131 S Main St.The event will include the history of the club and a slide presentation , as well as refreshments. For information, call Phyllis Mlecka at (352) 796-2089.SPRING HILLModel ships, wood carvings at show The Suncoast Ship Model Society and Weeki Wachee Woodcarvers Club will host a joint show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 27 at the Weeki Wachee Senior Citizens Center, 3357 Susan Drive, at Toucan Trail.The clubs will display a variety of ships, boats and wood carvings. For information, call Jim at (352) 592-6419.SPRING HILLUSO dinner hosted by Knights of ColumbusThe Knights of Columbus, St. Jude Assembly 1721, will host a USO dinner and dance March 20 at the K of C Hall, 10470 Spring Hill Drive. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and dinner is at 6 p.m.The meal includes ziti, meatballs, sausage, bread and more. Music will be provided by Angelo. Guests who have served with the military are encouraged to wear uniforms and other articles of clothing from their branch of service.Tickets are $8.50 and must be purchased in advance. Call Jim De Marco at (352) 683-7290.
Hernando County school notes

By Paulette Lash Ritchie, Times Correspondent 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
CHOCACHATTI ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: The Micro-Society for the Arts will present High School Musical, performed by third-, fourth- and fifth-grade Musical Theater and Dance Theater students at 7 p.m. March 31 and April 1. The production is free. Donations will be accepted.PINE GROVE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: A parents' workshop, "Families Building Better Readers," is 5:30 to 8 p.m. March 25 in the cafeteria, media center and Room 400.• The School Advisory Council meets from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. April 1 in the media center. Parent and community members are invited. Call (352) 797-7090 for information.POWELL MIDDLE SCHOOL: The School Advisory Council meets at 6:15 p.m. March 18 in the media center. The agenda includes the election of members and officers, and approval of the School Improvement Plan.WEST HERNANDO MIDDLE SCHOOL: The PTSA will host a Dance-Parents Night Out from 6 to 8 p.m. March 19 in the cafeteria. Parents can enjoy a night out while the PTSA takes care of children.• Assistant principal Carmine Rufa's All Pro Dads Breakfast is 6:30 to 7:15 a.m. March 24 in the cafeteria. Fathers and their kids can join Rufa for breakfast and a 45-minute program on fatherhood and family topics.• The Title I Committee meets from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. March 29 in the Writing Lab.• The School Advisory Council meets from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. March 29 in the library media center. All parents and students are welcome.
Two men killed in crash near Plant City

Times staff 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
PLANT CITY — Two men died Wednesday night in a pair of related hit-and-run collisions on County Road 39 near Plant City, the Florida Highway Patrol said.The accidents took place about 9:40 p.m. near Holloway Road, north of State Road 60, said Sgt. Larry Kraus, a Highway Patrol spokesman.In addition to the two victims who were killed, four people were taken to hospitals, said Dan Dye, an acting shift commander for Hillsborough County Fire-Rescue. Dye gave this account of the incident: A driver headed south on County Road 39 was involved in a crash with two other vehicles at Holloway Road. Two people in one vehicle were killed and two others in the second vehicle were injured.The driver continued to McDonald Road, where a second crash hurt two more people. Those victims were taken to Lakeland Regional Medical Center. The driver who was involved in both incidents ran away from the second accident scene.
Pine Grove Elementary has a week steeped in Dr. Seuss

By Paulette Lash Ritchie, Times Correspondent 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
<a href="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/her_seuss031110d_111692a.jpg"><img title="CHRIS PRICE | Special to the Times" alt="CHRIS PRICE | Special to the Times" src="http://www.tampabay.com/multimedia/archive/00111/her_seuss031110d_111692a.jpg" border="0" /></a> Pine Grove students heard Seuss stories and enjoyed Seuss-style hatmaking stalls and crafts Friday.
BROOKSVILLETheodor "Ted" Seuss Geisel would have been 106 years old on March 2, and Pine Grove Elementary School did not overlook his birthday. A week of activities at the school culminated with a Green Eggs and Ham Dr. Seuss celebration on Friday. It began that Monday with Crazy Hat Day, when students were allowed to wear hats to schools. Tuesday was Thing One and Thing Two Day. Students were allowed to wear red shirts or Thing One or Thing Two shirts.Wednesday was Crazy Socks Day and Thursday was Stuffed Animal Day. Students were allowed to bring stuffed toys to school to hold during reading times.Friday was Egg Day. Scrambled Eggs Super! was read, and surprises in plastic eggs were distributed in the media center.The event was sponsored by the PTA and coordinated by PTA president and Pine Grove kindergarten teacher Mary Beth Longcoy. Business partners supported it as well.For the first hour, green eggs and ham (really) were served and crafting centers were available. Students and their families were invited to make Dr. Seuss things, such as Cat in the Hat hats, picture frames, door hangers and flip books.Community members, teachers and parents volunteered to read at stations decorated according to the books at each spot.Assistant principal Debbie Shaw read Green Eggs and Ham on the stage. Teacher Ken Hill and parent Mary Beth McAvoy animated it as Sam-I-Am and the nameless main character, who learns to enjoy green eggs and ham and thanks Sam-I-Am.Passports were passed out and marked at each station the students visited. Those returning with five visits by the end were included in drawings for door prizes.And, of course, there was birthday cake.
Suncoast Elementary club raises about $1,795 for Partners in Health's Haiti mission

By Paulette Lash Ritchie, Times Correspondent 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
SPRING HILL — When Suncoast Elementary School K-Kids heard about the Haitian catastrophe, they wanted to help.The Suncoast K-Kids, co-sponsored by assistant principal Lisa Braithwaite and guidance counselor Teresa Jones, suggested the group sponsor a day of allowing students to come to school out of uniform (or staff to dress casually). They approached principal Jean Ferris and she agreed."We hosted a 'Ditch the Duds Day,' " Braithwaite said. The effort raised $1,794.65.The K-Kids, a Kiwanis-sponsored elementary school-level service club, advertised the fundraiser on the school's "Morning Show" and collected the donations given for the privilege of a casual dress day.They counted the money and presented it to Partners in Health, Stand With Haiti representatives Dr. Amy Wilson and Susan Wilson.The students were presented with a Partners in Health banner, which the school can keep and display for a month. The K-Kids were given "I Donated" buttons, which they accepted on behalf of the school."They did a great job," Braithwaite said. "It's all about helping others."The Suncoast Elementary School K-Kids is sponsored by the Spring Hill Kiwanis. The representative who works with the school is Donna Gaula.
Hernando community leaders come to Eastside Elementary for Read Across America event

By Paulette Lash Ritchie, Times Correspondent 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
BROOKSVILLE — There was a lot of reading going on at Eastside Elementary School as it hosted community members and business partners for the National Education Association's Read Across America event on March 2.Arriving between 8:30 and 9 a.m. visitors flocked to the school to spend a little bit of their day encouraging students to read and showing them how much fun it can be.The day's activities began even before the community members arrived. In the morning there was a book giveaway where every kindergarten child received a new book.As they arrived, the business partners and community members met in Beth Zacharias' Family Center, where they chose stories and met with their student escorts, who took them to their assigned classrooms.Hernando County School Board member James Yant was one of the readers and noted that reading is the key to everything. Yant encouraged parents to assist teachers in sparking the reading interest in their children. "If parents start reading to kids before they go to school, it's better," he said. "Some kids don't get read to until they get to school. The kids who read more, know more and they're going to be better students."Hernando County Fire Rescue Assistant Chief Frank DeFrancesco was also at the school. "Working with the kids is really important and everything we do revolves around reading," he said. "This is the basic building block for everything we do in the future."Exceptional Student Education parent liaison Janeen Defilippo said, "It's so important for the kids to see how important reading is and how far it'll take them."There were readers for almost every classroom. Some of the fourth-graders shared their ideas about why it is a good idea to be an accomplished reader."So you can succeed more in life and get a better job," said LeAndre Fagin, 9. Priscilla Rojero, 10, said, "Reading is important because it makes your brain stronger and you learn more." It was good for visitors to come read, she said, "Maybe because you meet new people and sometimes you can meet someone who is an important person."This special reading day wasn't all about visitors. They left midmorning. Throughout the day there were other activities, like the school's "Reading Cheer" recitation and making Dr. Seuss hats and door decorations.During the day, principal Beverly Chapin presented a challenge: "If the class reads three books, then each student in the class will receive a certificate from Texas Roadhouse for a free kid's meal."The teachers, staff and organizations that organized Eastside's Read Across America were Cindy Kinner, Tina Lemire, Phyllis Rexroad, Kelly Slaga, Jennifer Sisco, Debbie Spitler, Beth Zacharias, Hernando County Teacher's Association, Reading Leadership Team and the Eastside custodial crew.Maylene Medina, 9, seemed to have gotten the message. "Sometimes when I come home, I can read more to my brother and he learns, too," she said. "And there's lots of ways to love reading."
Hernando school newsmakers

By Paulette Lash Ritchie, Times Correspondent 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
DELTONA ELEMENTARY SCHOOLKids earn goodies for math, readingThe school recently celebrated with third-graders who participated in a program to raise reading and math proficiency. At the end of the program, each student received a gift bag containing a book, bookmark, pencil and certificate of achievement. Local business partner NOW Promotions of Spring Hill donated the books.PASCO-HERNANDO COMMUNITY COLLEGEStudent joins ranks of Phi Theta KappaMichael G. Yates was inducted into the Alpha Delta Epsilon Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa at Pasco-Hernando Community College on Feb. 18. Yates, from Otis Air Force Base, Mass., is majoring in nursing. He is the son of Billy and Catherine Yates of Bayonet Point and is married to Lois Yates of Spring Hill.TEMPLE BETH DAVID IRWIN LIEBERMAN RELIGIOUS SCHOOLCards seek to raise Haitians' spiritsStudents participated in Cards of Care, sponsored by the National Disaster Recovery Fund and managed by Volunteer USA Foundation. It taught children about "Tikkun Olam," which means to heal, repair or perfect the world. Students hope to raise the spirits of Haitians who receive the cards. The cards are distributed to hospitals, shelters, schools and nonprofit groups.Participants were Brittany Werner, Melissa Wolfe, Isabelle Marcus, Jordan Gronkjaer, Grayson Stein, Andrew Ercolano, Jessica Finley, Brandon Volpicelli and teacher Lynn Budnick; Francine Grabowski, Lauren Wolfe, Noah Marcus, Alejandro Friedberg, Samuel Volpicelli, Gavin Rudnick and teacher Karla Zagar; and Hannah Grabowski, Brett LaBella, Aaron Kemper, Nate Marcus, Rose Leventhal, Ethan Stein, Alyssa Kemper, Aaron Pfluke, Emily Marcus and teacher Debi Wolfe.
Mailed-in ballots drove election in Clearwater

By Mike Brassfield, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
CLEARWATER — A couple of thousand Clearwater voters went to the polls Tuesday to elect two City Council members, but the truth is that this election was likely decided before those people ever drove to their local voting precinct.Of the 8,026 voters who cast ballots in Clearwater, nearly three-fourths of them voted by mail before Election Day rolled around.And every Clearwater resident who requested a mail-in ballot also got political fliers in their mailboxes from only two candidates, Paul Gibson and Bill Jonson, who went on to win.Their campaigns requested regular updates from elections officials about which voters had ordered absentee ballots. They followed up by sending their mailers to those voters. That helped Gibson and Jonson fend off challengers and to win 57 and 55 percent of the vote in their respective races."I wish we would have had the money to send out those fliers to absentee voters," said candidate Herb Quintero, who finished second to Jonson with 17 percent of the vote. "We gave it a hell of a shot. If we had the money, I think I would have been more of a contender."There was a big difference in the amount of money spent. The two victors' campaigns were noticeably better-funded than those of their competitors, who were political newcomers running low-budget, grass roots efforts.Gibson, the only incumbent in the race, raised $12,300, several times as much as his challenger, Mike Riordon. Gibson also donated thousands of dollars to his own campaign.Jonson, a former two-term councilman, got plenty of donations from fellow Republican officials and members of Clearwater's old guard. Jonson raised about $20,000 — three times as much as his three rivals combined."I congratulate Bill Jonson for his political acumen. That's the reason he won the election," said Joe Paige, who finished third in the race for Seat 4.Paige, who wants a smaller government and publicly called for closing three Clearwater libraries, suspects he was too blunt with voters: "Telling people that they can't have something is not a way to win a local election."The two winners performed better in the mail-in ballots than they did among walk-in voters. Jonson won 56 percent of mail ballots and 50 percent of walk-in ballots. Gibson won 59 percent of mail ballots and 51 percent of walk-in ballots."I think I lost large on the absentee ballots," said Gibson's opponent, Riordon. "A lot of people get a postcard and they say, 'The other guy didn't send me one. I'll support this guy.' "Riordon, who was endorsed by Clearwater's firefighters union, was the candidate who was most critical of City Hall. By getting 43 percent of the overall vote, he did better at the polls than some political observers expected he would."I never asked one person for money," Riordon said. "If the City Council thinks this is a referendum saying they're doing a good job, they're delusional."A few other points about Tuesday's election:• With the departure of Councilwoman Carlen Petersen, the Clearwater City Council will now be all male for the first time in well over a decade.• Jonson and Gibson, ages 65 and 61, were the oldest candidates of the six who ran.• Clearwater's next election in 2012 will feature two open City Council seats because Mayor Frank Hibbard and Councilman John Doran are term-limited out of office.• Because Tuesday's turnout was disappointingly low, Hibbard thinks Clearwater should move its municipal elections from March to coincide with November general elections. Voter turnout was only about 8 percent with slightly more than 8,000 Clearwater residents voting.Now that the campaign is over, the two winners can hardly believe it went by so quickly."I just had the help of so many people. It's a huge factor in my success," Jonson said. "People who walked neighborhoods with me, and who stood on a corner on a very cold morning in a very strong wind and waved signs at cars coming off the beach."Mike Brassfield can be reached at brassfield@sptimes.com or (727) 445-4160.
Palm Harbor man accused of possessing child pornography videos

Times staff 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
PALM HARBORVideos showing Child porn lead to chargesA 30-year-old man is accused of having videos containing child pornography. Jared W. Coombs of 1288 Bay Harbor Drive, No. 107, was arrested Tuesday and charged with 20 counts of possession of child pornography. The videos he had included images of children as young as 5 years old being sexually abused. Three of the videos included children who have been identified by law enforcement or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, according to arrest reports. Coombs was arrested at his home by an agent from the Florida Attorney General's office. He is being held in the Pinellas County Jail on $200,000 bail.CLEARWATERPhotos may show scam suspects' carAuthorities have released photos of a car believed to have been used by two women who scammed an elderly woman out of $13,000 in cash and jewelry Saturday. The car is thought to be a four-door tan or champagne-colored Lincoln Town Car, police said. On Saturday, two women persuaded the victim to hand over valuables as collateral after one pretended to find a wallet with a lottery ticket in it. It happened as the victim was returning to her car at Sam's Club at 2575 Gulf-to-Bay Blvd. Police said the women they're looking for have tried the "pigeon drop" scam at least twice before, and ask would-be victims to call Clearwater police at (727) 562-4422 or (727) 562-4242 if they are approached.DUNEDINRegistration starts for Mutt StruttRegistration is under way for the annual Mutt Strutt from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 20 at Honeymoon Island State Park. The event, which benefits the Humane Society of Pinellas, includes a pet/owner walk-a-thon, games and 50 vendors. To download your registration form, visit humanesocietyof pinellas.org.REDINGTON SHORESWatercraft rider hurt in accidentAn Ohio man was injured Wednesday after he was thrown from his personal watercraft near the southern tip of the Long Pier, deputies said. Lauren Garland and Craig Dehart, both 22 and visiting from Perrysburg, Ohio, were sharing the watercraft and idling in the water about 11 a.m., Pinellas County deputies said. Dehart's father, Jeffrey Dehart, 47, of Toledo, Ohio, was also piloting a watercraft and headed toward them to talk. He slowed and turned it off as he got close, but it coasted up to the back of the other watercraft, knocking his son into the water. Garland and Jeffrey Dehart pulled him from the water and took him to shore, deputies said. The young man's injuries were not serious; he was taken to Largo Medical Center as a precaution, said sheriff's spokeswoman Cecilia Barreda.
Hillsborough transit tax issue bogs down again

By Bill Varian, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
TAMPA — Hillsborough County commissioners haggled and negotiated Wednesday but still could not agree on ballot language for a proposed transit sales tax referendum.But they did creating an 11-member committee to oversee spending of tax proceeds if the issue makes the November ballot and is passed by voters.Commissioners deadlocked in a 3-3 vote over two drafts of possible ballot language.One specifies that 75 percent of the tax would pay for a new rail system and expanded bus service and the remaining 25 percent would go for road and other transportation needs. The other draft did not have that wording.Commissioner Rose Ferlita said specific language was critical to assure voters that the money will be spent as promised."That's what this about — a relationship and a contract," Ferlita said.But Ferlita objected to the way the team that has been crafting the ballot language worded the part that includes the split. She proposed that it say "no more" than 25 percent of the money would go toward roads. It also floats the possibility that the tax can be repealed if the county is unable to attract needed state or federal money for a rail system.Commissioners were able to fairly easily agree to creating an oversight committee.While the transit system, including rail lines, would be run by Hillsborough Area Regional Transit, the county's bus agency, the committee would play a watchdog role and include members with some level of expertise in finance and engineering.The county, Tampa and HART would each get three appointments to the board. One person would have to be a public-sector expert in government finance, accounting or auditing. The second person would be a private-sector expert in one of those disciplines. The third person would come from the ranks of public- sector transportation engineers or executives.Temple Terrace and Plant City would each get one appointment.Commissioners talk again on the topic March 17, but acknowledge it could be May before they are able to hold a public hearing to would give final approval for a referendum.Bill Varian can be reached at (813) 226-3387 or varian@sptimes.com.
Hernando Night Life

Times staff 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Bar Envy: 11060 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. Live rock band, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. today. DJ (dance music from 1980s to present), 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Saturday. Latin Night, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Sunday. Alternative Night with DJ Devious (goth, rock and alternative), 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Monday. Wii bowling league, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. Tuesday. Trivaoke (pub trivia and karaoke) 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Wednesday. Elite Poker League and free pool, 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Thursday. Cover today and Saturday is $5. (352) 686-5171.Bayport Inn: 4835 Cortez Blvd., Weeki Wachee. Live entertainment, 6-10 p.m. today and Saturday and 2-6 p.m. Sunday. No cover. (352) 596-1088.C's Pub: 12572 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. DJ and karaoke, 8 p.m.-2 a.m. today and Saturday. No cover. (352) 688-4249.Flamingo's Lounge: 3447 Commercial Way, Spring Hill. Karaoke, 9 p.m.-1:30 a.m. today and Saturday. No cover. 21 and older. (352) 683-7272.The Hideaway Restaurant and Lounge: 247 Hallcrest Ave., Spring Hill. Little Miss Dynamite, 7 p.m. today. Josh Looman of American Idol, 7 p.m. Saturday. Frankie Dee New York Orchestra, 1 p.m. Sunday. Sunday cover is $16, which includes buffet meal. (352) 666-1416.Jake's Wherehouse: 7318 S Broad St., Brooksville. DJ Gooch, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. today and Saturday. Bike night, 6-9 Monday. Pool tournament at 8 p.m. and karaoke at 9 p.m. Wednesday ($10 entry for double-elimination 8-ball pool tournament). Call (352) 593-4107.Jerry's Place: 10553 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. Karaoke, 9 p.m. daily. No cover. (352) 666-9866.Market Cafe Wine and Dine: 3375 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach. Reggae DJ, 6-8 p.m. today. Songwriters and folk guitar, 6-8 p.m. Saturday. Blues jam, 8-10 p.m. Wednesday. Open mike, 6-9 p.m. Thursday. No cover. (352) 610-4422.Miss Kitty's Hilltop Lounge: 504 N Broad St., Brooksville. Live entertainment, 9 p.m.-2 a.m. today, Saturday and Thursday. $3 cover today and Saturday. (352) 796-3475.Pickled Parrot: 5526 Commercial Way, Spring Hill. Borderline and DJ Mat, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. today and Saturday. Stars N Barz karaoke, 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Sunday and Thursday. Miss Dynamite, 8-midnight Monday. Stars N Barz karaoke, 8 p.m.-1 a.m. Tuesday. Hip-hop, 8 p.m.-2 a.m. Wednesday. Bike night with outdoor DJ, 6-9 Thursday. $5 cover today and Saturday. (352) 597-0707.R Beach: 4054 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach. DJ dance mix, 8 p.m. today. Slickside, 8-midnight Saturday, with DJ Hollywood and F Master J. from midnight to 2 a.m.; POF Social starts at 9 p.m. Southern Exposure featuring Norm Bernard and Kim (jazz), 6-9 p.m. Wednesday. National Talent Quest/Sunshine State Singing Competition (karaoke), 6-11 p.m. Thursday. No cover. (352) 592-5556.Rebar: 10123 Broad St., Brooksville. Karaoke, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Saturday and Thursday. No cover. (352) 799-6031.Spare Time Sports Bar & Eatery: 3544 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill. Latin dance, 9 p.m. today. Hip-hop/Top 40, 9 p.m. Saturday. Karaoke, 9 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. No cover. (352) 684-7998.Zip's Italian Steakhouse: 11738 Broad St., Brooksville. Live band, 9 p.m. today. Karaoke with Travis, 8 p.m. Saturday and Monday. World Poker Tour, 7 p.m. Tuesday. Karaoke with Fred Campbell, 7 p.m. Wednesday. Karaoke with Elaine, 8 p.m. Thursday. No cover. (352) 345-4806.If your Hernando County bar or restaurant has live entertainment, get it included in Night Life. Fax the information to (352) 754-6133, e-mail to pday@sptimes.com, or mail or bring it to our office at 15365 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, FL 34613. Be sure to include the name of the act, dates, times and cover charge.
Deputies investigating fatal crash in Madeira Beach

Times Staff 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
MADEIRA BEACH — Authorities are investigating a crash that left one person dead Wednesday evening.The accident, which involved two vehicles, was reported at about 7:15 p.m. at 147th Avenue and Gulf Boulevard, according to the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office.No one involved in the crash was identified by deputies late Wednesday night.According to deputies, a Saturn SUV was southbound on Gulf Boulevard when it was struck by a convertible Lotus kit car that was turning onto the road off of 147th Avenue.First responders performed CPR on the driver of the convertible, who was later pronounced dead at Palms of Pasadena Hospital.The driver and two passengers in the SUV, who are visiting the area from Canada, were taken to Bayfront Medical Center in St. Petersburg for non life-threatening injuries, sheriff's officials said.Authorities closed Gulf Boulevard from 143rd Avenue to 150th Avenue as the sheriff's major accident investigation team investigated.Check tampabay.com for updates.
Tarpon commissioners pledge new era of civility

By Demorris A. Lee, Times Staff Writer 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
TARPON SPRINGS — It's a pledge that members of the city's new commission hope to never hear again.Before each meeting, right after the Pledge of Allegiance, Mayor Beverley Billiris would read the three-sentence Pledge of Civility:"We will be respectful of one another even when we disagree. We will direct all comments to the issues. We will avoid personal attacks."The ongoing feud and bickering between Billiris and Commissioner Peter Dalacos led to the reading of the civility pledge in 2009.But Mayor-elect David O. Archie said he doesn't plan to start meetings with the civility pledge because he shouldn't have to remind people who have been elected by the citizens of Tarpon Springs that they need to be civil."I'm looking for us to come and look at working together," Archie said. "Lets deal with the issues at hand and leave personalities out of it. Respecting each other's positions as elected officials will help us figure out how to best serve the citizens of Tarpon."On Tuesday, Tarpon voters elected Archie as their mayor and Jeff Larsen as a new commissioner. Incumbent Chris Alahouzos won re-election.Archie and Larsen will replace Billiris and Dalacos, who both had to step aside due to term limits."The sarcasm will be gone and the name-calling will be gone because I will not be there," said Billiris, who often tangled with Dalacos. "Finally, the board will have some continuity and team vision. I tried to bring the team vision, but he (Dalacos) didn't believe in a team effort."Dalacos said there is no way to "predict" how the new commission will conduct business. He said rifts could develop over different philosophies on how to get things done."We (the commission) are not there as a social club, a group sitting around having beers, playing cards, shooting pool, having a good old time," Dalacos said. "We are there for the best interest of the city. How we interpret what that is, being that we are five different individuals, we are going to have five different interpretations."But Commissioner Susan Slattery said that when the new commission is seated Tuesday, "all (will) respect one another."We are adults, and I don't think it should have to be read at the beginning of every meeting," Slattery said. "We will get along, and we will all be civil."Members of the new commission say there will be a different tone to the board.Alahouzos said he is thankful to Billiris and Dalacos for their service to Tarpon Springs. But he's looking forward to the new commission "so we can start working and dealing with the economy and bringing new business to Tarpon Springs."Hopefully, there will be no personality issues," Alahouzos said. "We will respectively disagree, but we also will work collectively for the betterment of Tarpon Springs."Larsen said he'd like to keep the tone of the meetings very positive.Commissioner Robin Saenger said that Archie and Larsen are great additions to the board. She said she's very comfortable with Archie's leadership and that Larsen brings fresh energy.Saenger said Billiris and Dalacos are both "very strong personalities.""That was a sticking point," Saenger said. "But I'd like to see a more peaceful scenario as we move forward."Demorris A. Lee can be reached at dalee@sptimes.com or (727) 709-6026
South Tampa religion events

Times staff 
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Speaker: Rabbi Ari Sorko-Ram, a former actor, rugby player and football star, will share stories about his life and ministries in Israel at 7:30 p.m. today at the Shoresh David Messianic Synagogue, 4320 Bay to Bay Blvd. Sorko-Ram, who founded Maoz Israel Ministries, a Messianic Jewish ministry in Israel, will discuss how a love for God motivated him to change his life's direction. Free. Call (813) 831-5673. Vendor's fair: The United Methodist Women will host a vendor's fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Manhattan Avenue United Methodist Church, 4511 S Manhattan Ave. There will be vendors of all kinds, as well as hot dogs and a bake sale. Call (813) 839-3361. World's largest jade Buddha: The world's largest jade Buddha is on display through Sunday at Minh Dang Quang Temple, 5607 Town 'N Country Blvd. The Buddha has been exhibited in cities around the world, where visitors have gathered to pray for world peace. Free. Call (813) 317-4160. Quaker meeting: The Religious Society of Friends meets for worship at 10 a.m. Sundays at 1502 W Sligh Ave. Call (813) 253-3244.Recital: Florida Pro Musica, the professional musical ensemble in residence at Sacred Heart Church, will perform a recital featuring soprano Maggie Coleman at 4 p.m. Sunday at 509 N Florida Ave. The performance will also feature music director Larry Kent playing the harpsichord. Tickets are $15. Call (813) 494-4709 or visit floridapromusica.com. Meditation class: "Giving Happiness to Others" is at 7 p.m. Tuesday at Angel Heart New Age Gifts, 3401 Henderson Blvd., No. H. American Buddhist monk Kelsang Chokyan will present an introduction to meditation from the Kadampa Buddhist tradition. Cost is $10 or $5 for students and those with limited income. Call (727) 797-9770 or visit meditationintampabay.org. Women's Bible study: The interdenominational women's Bible study meets at 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays at Palma Ceia United Methodist Church, 3723 Bay to Bay Blvd. Call (813) 253-5314.Send items for the religion calendar at least two weeks in advance to citytimes@sptimes.com.

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