PCLS E-Government Services

Pasco County 2013 Health Rankings

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 May 2013 02:36:00 +0000

Pasco County is the 12th largest county in the state of Florida. Spread across approximately 745 square miles, it has 6 municipalities: New Port Richey, Port Richey, San Antonio, St. Leo, Zephyrhills and Dade City. It is one of 8 counties, along with Citrus, Dixie, Hernando, Levy, Jefferson, Taylor, and Wakulla, which make up the "Nature Coast." It is beautifully situated on the Gulf of Mexico.

Pasco County is the 9th fastest growing county of Florida and the 38 of the nation. The estimated population is 437,028 people, according to the 2010 U.S. Census Bureau. A total of 354,833 adults reside in the county, a 1.02 % increase from 2009. In Pasco, 23.7% of the residents are 65 years old and over compared to only 17.7% in Florida.

The Pasco County Health Department recently published their Community Health Assessment, available for viewing on their web site. It reflects their work standards of (1) improving health by providing essential services, (2) promoting wellness with education and information, and (3) protecting the health our our community through prevention.

The Community Health Assessment Rankings and Roadmaps report identifies the county's health outcomes and heath factors over the past four years, and compares the data to the state of Florida. Covering categories such as obesity, teen pregnancy, diabetic screening, social and economic factors, as well as many others, it highlights particular areas of continuous attention.

Their mission: "To serve, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county and community efforts."
Their vision: "To be the healthiest state in the nation."
Their values: innovation, collaboration, accountability, responsiveness, and excellence.

For links to services, hours and locations, maps to clinics, and more information, go to the Pasco County Health Department web site.

What you Should Know before Buying Life Insurance

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 19:52:00 +0000

Many people realize that life insurance is an important way to provide for their families, but buying life insurance can seem daunting. How do you know if you’re picking the best coverage for you and your family?
The American Council of Life Insurers offers the following tips to help you pick out the best plan:

Decide if you need permanent or term life insurance. Permanent policies will provide money to your family no matter when you die. Term policies will pay only if you die during a specific period of time.
When you’re trying to decide between life insurance companies, ask family and friends for recommendations. You can also meet with an insurance agent to talk through your options.
Ask for the outlines of several plans so you can compare the features of the various options you’re considering.
Always answer the questions on your application truthfully.
Once you select a plan, store the policy with your other important financial documents, but not in a safe deposit box. Upon death, boxes are sometimes sealed temporarily by the bank, which could delay your family’s access to the coverage.
Review and update your policy from time to time, especially after major life events like marriages or children being born.

Click here for more information on life insurance.

Information provided by USA.gov

Follow NASA's Curiosity Mars Rover

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 13:22:00 +0000

Mars Crater Valley

CURIOSITY, the Mars rover landed on the red planet at 10:32 p.m. August 5, 2012, and will spend the next 2 years analyzing soil and rock samples in order to determine whether Mars was ever able to support small life forms.

Visit NASA's website on the Curiosity Mars rover to learn about the mission, see images and videos, get the latest news, and more.

Avoid Identity Theft - Deter, Detect, Defend

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 19:15:00 +0000

DETER - DETECT - DEFEND
against
IDENTITY THEFT

DETER: MINIMIZE YOUR RISK

While nothing can guarantee that you won't become a victim of identity theft, you can minimize your risk by making it difficult for identity thieves to access your personal information.

Protect your social security number:

Don't carry your SS card with you
Don't write your SS number on checks
Give your SS number only when necessary - use other types of identifiers whenever possible.

Treat your trash and mail carefully:

Shred charge receipts, copies of credit applications, insurance forms, physician statements, checks and bank statements before discarding.
Consider opting out of prescreened offers of credit in the mail by calling 1-888-567-8688 (NOTE: You will be asked to provide your Social Security number).
Deposit outgoing mail containing personally identifying information in postal collection boxes or at your local post office, rather than in an unsecured mailbox.
Promptly remove mail from your mailbox.
If you are planning to be away from home contact the U. S. Postal Service at 1-800-275-8777 to place a vacation hold.

Be on guard using the internet:

For practical tips to help you be on guard against internet fraud, secure your computer and protect your personal information, go to: http://onguardonline.gov

Select intricate passwords:

Place passwords on your credit card, bank and phone accounts.
Don't use easily available information (i.e. mother's maiden name, birth date, last 4 of social security number). Instead, for a strong password, use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters.
Give your SS number only when necessary - use other types of identifiers whenever possible

Verify a source before sharing information:

Because identity thieves are clever and may pose as representatives of banks, internet service providers, etc., don't give out personal information on the phone, through the mail or over the internet unless you have initiated the contact.

Safeguard your purse and wallet:

Protect your purse and wallet at all times. Don't carry your social security card, and carry only the identification cards, credit cards or debit cards that you will need when you go out.

Store information in a secure location in your home.

For more information visit http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/index.html .

Salute Our Military

noreply@blogger.com (Jen Leek) — Fri, 18 May 2012 13:34:00 +0000

Armed Forces Day
May 19, 2012

Many Americans celebrate Armed Forces Day annually on the third Saturday of May. It is a day to pay tribute to men and women who serve the United States armed forces. Armed Forces Day is also part of Armed Forces Week, which begins on the second Saturday of May. Armed Forces Day is reserved as a day to pay special tribute to our nation's men and women of the military forces that have defended our country day and night, insured our freedom, and upheld the beliefs and principles that this great nation was built on.

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Driving and Road Trip Resources

noreply@blogger.com (Jen Leek) — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:11:00 +0000

Whether you're driving locally or taking a road trip, find helpful resources on USA.gov's Road and Train Travel page, including:

Gas Mileage Tips -- Find out how driving efficiently, keeping your car in good condition, and combining trips can help you save money.
Traffic and Road Closures -- Get resources to keep you informed about road and traffic conditions.
Scenic Byways -- Find scenic drives that you might enjoy while traveling on the road.

-- Resources for Senior Drivers , Teen Drivers & Child Safety

Wherever you're driving, make safety a top priority and keep in mind that most states have banned texting while driving. Learn more about distracted driving.

Information provided by USA.gov & NHTSA

----

America the Beautiful

noreply@blogger.com (Jen Leek) — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:14:00 +0000

The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass

A new federal recreation pass is available that combines the benefits of existing recreation passes from five federal agencies into one comprehensive pass: “America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.” Frequent visitors to multiple federal agency lands may save money by buying this annual pass. Plus, 90% of the purchase price goes back to federal land agencies to help them protect these national treasures for generations to come.

The new pass program was created by the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, which Congress authorized in December 2004 and replaces the Golden Eagle, Golden Age, and the Golden Access Passports as well as the National Parks Pass. Existing passes will remain valid until expired.

The America the Beautiful: National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Pass (Interagency Annual Pass) is honored nationwide at National Park Service, Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Reclamation recreation sites charging day-use or entrance fees.

The basic pass terms and conditions are listed below:

Cost $80
Valid for 12 months from the month of purchase. Expires the last day of the month punched.
Includes two signature lines and any two individuals may sign the pass. Both are considered pass holders.
Admits pass holder and any accompanying passengers in a private non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee sites.
At per person fee sites, admits pass holder and up to three (3) persons age 16 and older. Children 15 and younger are admitted free of charge.
Photo identification may be required to verify ownership.
Passes are NON-REFUNDABLE, NON-TRANSFERABLE, and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen.
To plan your trip and determine if this pass is the right one for you, please contact the offices of the federal recreation sites where you plan to visit.

Other kinds of passes include:

Senior Pass -- $10 lifetime pass for U.S. citizens who are 62 years and older

Access Pass -- Free lifetime pass for permanently disabled U.S. citizens

Volunteer Pass -- Annual Pass awarded to volunteers who contribute 500 or more hours

Additional Information and FAQ's

_____

Increasing Fuel Prices in the U.S.

noreply@blogger.com (Anita) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 19:34:00 +0000

Why the Price of Gas is Rising

Our increasing fuel costs here in the United States are mainly due to the rising price of crude oil.
Crude oil is a natural form of oil found in the ground, and it must be refined into gasoline. As of January, one gallon of crude oil costs $2.57, making up 76% of our cost of $3.38 per gallon, a national average in January.

Causes of increased crude oil prices? China and other countries have increased their demands. In addition, the instability in the Middle East means unpredictable or less output from Libya and Iran, who produce a majority of the crude oil. Less production of crude oil means higher prices for us at the pump.

World countries and corporations that sell crude oil benefit when the price is high. In 2010, about 49% of the oil used by the U.S. was imported from foreign countries. Read FAQs provided by the U.S. Energy Administration, and also what the US Energy Administration gives as breakdown on what makes up the rest of the price. Click here for those details.

What you can do? Avoid idling. It gets you zero miles per gallon. Don't be aggressive, brake hard, or rapidly accelerate. This can lower mileage by 33%. Watch your speed: every 5 mph over 60 mph, is like paying an additional $0.30 per gallon. Air conditioning “economy” and "recirculation" settings are helpful and allow reduction of chilling the hot outside air.

Check out the following links:

Gas prices by zip code

Gas prices by City

Tips before you travel

Information provided by USA.gov.

Property Appraiser to Speak Thursday

noreply@blogger.com (Anita) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 16:12:00 +0000

Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells will be speaking tonight, March 22nd, at the Beacon Square Civic Association meeting Thursday at 7:00 p.m.

Mr. Wells will discuss the appraisal process, property values, legislation affecting those property values, among other topics.

The Beacon Square Civic Association is located at 3741 Bradford Drive, New Port Richey. Heading south on U.S. 19, turn right onto Moog Road, and then turn right again on Bradford Drive.

More information is available by calling the Association at 727-807-7007.

* Information provided by the Suncoast News / Pasco North edition.

"Passport Day in the USA"

noreply@blogger.com (Jen Leek) — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 15:38:00 +0000

On Saturday, September 17, the Department of State will host its third annual “Passport Day in the USA.” U.S. citizens throughout the country may apply for a passport book or passport card at all regional passport agencies and participating passport application acceptance facilities, including post offices and clerks of court.

For this day only, U.S. citizens may apply directly at passport agencies without making an appointment. Both routine and expedited processing service may be requested. To reduce wait times on September 17, customers are encouraged to complete applications online at www.travel.state.gov, print the completed forms, and bring them to the passport agencies and acceptance facilities.

Florida Passport Day Locations

Information about passport requirements
National Passport Information Center toll-free at 1-877-487-2778

or TDD/TTY at 1-888-874-7793.

Hurricane Irene Updates and Preparedness

noreply@blogger.com (Anita) — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 14:40:00 +0000

The Weather Channel reports Hurricane Irene, the first hurricane of the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season, now has its sights set on the Bahamas and the U.S. East Coast. Irene is forecast to strengthen into a major hurricane by early Wednesday as it passes over the Bahamas.

Storm Team 8 Tampa Bay reports that the more time passes, the less threat the rapidly strengthening Hurricane Irene appears to be to the Tampa Bay area. Irene grew into a Category 2 hurricane late Monday and the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami said it might continue to increase in strength.

For our Tampa Bay area residents, it's never to late to prepare for severe storms, as the forecast has been known to change in the past.

USA.gov has plenty of resources to assist you in both pre- and post- hurricane situations -- for you, your family, your business, and your pets.

If you live near the path of a storm, Ready.gov recommends that you:

Build an emergency supply kit,
Make a family emergency plan, and
Stay informed. Follow hurricane warnings and updates at Hurricanes.gov.

Find more information about how to prepare for a hurricane.

Don't let a disaster catch you by surprise -- Be prepared !

Drop off Old Medications and Needles - Saturday, August 27th, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 20:08:00 +0000

Get rid of your old medication and needles on August 27th

The Pasco County Sheriff's Office will host pill drops at two (2) locations from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 27th, where you can safely dispose of unused or expired medications and needles. You simply drop off the items and no personal information will be required. The Sheriff's Office will then properly dispose of the items so they don't end up in the landfill or water supply.

The event will be held at the Gulfview Square Mall, 9409 U. S. 19 in Port Richey and the Shops of Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Dr. in Wesley Chapel. For more information please contact the sheriff's office at 800-854-2862.

Information provided by the St. Petersburg Times Saturday, August 13, 2011 edition.

Back To School Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Jen Leek) — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:05:00 +0000

With the beginning of a new school year just around the corner, parents are wondering how to help their children do their best this academic year. According to a research study commissioned by Georgia’s Partnership for Reform in Science and Mathematics (PRISM), parents are the most influential people in the academic success of a child, ahead of teachers, coaches and spiritual leaders.

This is good news, but many parents wonder how they can make a positive impact when they aren’t experts in the subjects their children are studying. Every parent can put his or her child on a path to school readiness and academic success. Here are some recommendations:

..:: Get Involved ::..

Studies show that students whose parents are involved in schools are more likely to resist negative peer pressure, more likely to graduate and to go to college, and less likely to have learning and behavioral problems.
One of the best things you can do to see that your child gets the most out of his or her education is to get involved and encourage them to do the same. Serving on the PTA or becoming a class parent assures that you know what’s going on so that your child can take full advantage of school events.
Encourage your child to sign up for extracurricular activities and take part, as a family, in school work days, spirit nights, donation drives and the variety of activities held throughout the school year.

..:: Maintain an Open Dialogue ::..

Don’t wait for a conference to talk with the teacher about a child’s progress. Students will be more successful if parents have an open dialogue with their children, teachers and school administrators from the start of the school year.
Be positive. Your child may be nervous about heading back to school, so be sure to model optimism and excitement about the new year. Your child will pick up on your good attitude. Also, let him or her know you're always available to talk about problems.
Discuss your child’s learning style and past successes and challenges with school. Ask questions about your child’s curriculum, educational track and expected benchmarks for the academic year. Notice when your child completes homework/assignments and provide encouragement. Praise your child for positive efforts even if you don't see the results yet.
Talk every day about the progress he/she is making in each class. Encourage your child to talk to teachers if he/she does not understand an assignment.
Almost every student approaches the start of a new school year with at least a bit of trepidation, and if your child has struggled with school in the past, he/she is much more likely to be less than overjoyed about heading back into the classroom. Remind your child that she is not the only student who is a bit uneasy about the first day of school. Teachers know that students are anxious and will make an extra effort to make sure everyone feels as comfortable as possible.
Point out the positive aspects of starting school. Refresh positive memories about previous years.

..:: Support Good Study Habits ::..

Create a homework center—a specific area in the house where your child can do homework each evening. Establish a regular homework time, making sure that it’s in a quiet place and stocked with enough supplies, such as pencils, erasers, paper, a folder or two, and a calculator.
Establish a household rule that the TV set stays off during homework time.
Supervise computer and internet use.
Be available to answer questions and offer assistance
Keep encouraging literacy at home. Read at least once a week with your child and make frequent trips to your local library.
Have a dictionary available for your child to look up new or unfamiliar words
All students need to be proficient in Science and Mathematics in order to be successful as adults. Communicate the importance of learning Science and Mathematics. From the kitchen, to the family car, balancing a checkbook and figuring out the discount on their latest purchase – Science and Mathematics surround us and enrich our lives in many ways.
When it comes to your child and school, don't forget that routines are your ally. From consistent bedtimes to a well-established homework zone, developing positive habits can help ease anxiety and promote appropriate behaviors.

..:: Be Prepared ::..

Children between the ages of 6 and 9 need about 10 hours of sleep each night. Preteens need a little over nine hours. Therefore, setting a regular sleep routine could improve your child’s sleep habits and schoolwork. Establish a reasonable bedtime so that they'll be well-rested and ready to learn in the morning.
Eat a healthy breakfast. Studies have shown that children who eat healthful, balanced breakfasts and lunches are more alert throughout the school day and earn higher grades than those who have an unhealthy diet.
Have your child organize and set out what they need the night before; Clothes should be laid out in their bedrooms.Homework and books should be put in their backpacks by the door. Pack light, a backpack should never weigh more than 10 to 20 percent of the student’s body weight. Always use both shoulder straps. Slinging a backpack over one shoulder can strain muscles and may increase curvature of the spine.
Encourage students to leave the iPods, cell phones and other electronic toys at home. Most schools ban them during school hours anyway -- and students have been robbed of their electronic items going to or from school. Teach your child not to share locker combinations with other students.
Encourage your child to keep a notebook or journal in order to write down the need-to-know info to help them remember details such as their locker combination, what time classes and lunch start and end, their homeroom and classroom numbers, teachers' and/or bus drivers' names, etc.
Use a wall calendar or personal planner to record when assignments are due, tests will be given, extracurricular practices and rehearsals will be held, etc.
Meet with the school nurse - This is especially important if your child requires any medications at school (for asthma, allergies, attention deficit disorder, etc.), has any allergies (foods, medications, bee, yellow jacket, etc. stings) or any medical conditions (seizures, heart conditions, etc.) that may restrict their participation in school activities.
Make sure students are aware of all school rules governing their behavior while in school.
Children may be embarrassed about being targeted by bullies, let them know it’s OK to report a bully to a teacher, principal or resource officer.
Prepare your child for social situations. A certain level of social anxiety is normal. Respond to signs of anxiety by talking to your child about school concerns. Make time to listen when kids want to talk - review your child's worries one at a time and help them problem solve so they don't become overwhelmed.

Helpful Resources :

School hours
Online lunch/snack payment
Immunizations
Free and reduced lunch application
Check grades

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

noreply@blogger.com (Anita) — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:36:00 +0000

MEDICAID & THE CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE PROGRAM (CHIP)

offer free or low-cost health coverage to children and families.

If you are eligible for health coverage from your employer, but are unable to afford the premiums, some States have premium assistance programs that can help pay for coverage. These States use funds from their Medicaid or CHIP programs to help people who are eligible for employer-sponsored health coverage, but need assistance in paying their health premiums.

If you or your dependents are already enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP, and you live in a state offering assistance (Florida), you can contact the Children's Health Insurance Plan or your State Medicaid office to find out if premium assistance is available.

If you or your dependents are NOT currently enrolled in Medicaid or CHIP, and you think you or any of your dependents might be eligible for either of these programs, you can contact any of the groups listed here to find out how to apply. If you qualify, you can ask the State if it has a program that might help you pay the premiums for an employer-sponsored plan:

Contact the State Medicaid Office
Contact the Children's Health Insurance Plan
Contact INSURE KIDS NOW by calling 1-877-Kids-Now (1-877-543-7669)

Once it is determined that you or your dependents are eligible for premium assistance under Medicaid or CHIP, your employer’s health plan is required to permit you and your dependents to enroll in the plan – as long as you and your dependents are eligible, but not already enrolled in the employer’s plan. This is called a “special enrollment” and you must request coverage within 60 days of being determined eligible for premium assistance.
As a Florida resident, you may be eligible for assistance paying your employer health plan premiums.

To learn more, call for further information at 1-866-762-2237, or click here to go online to the FLORIDA MEDICAID website.

Stay Safe during a Lightning Storm

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 17:00:00 +0000

"IF THUNDER ROARS, GO INDOORS"

Since thunder and lightning storms happen frequently during the summer months, FEMA offers these tips on how to avoid injury during a lightning storm:

Avoid contact with corded phones.
Avoid contact with electrical equipment or cords. Unplug electronic equipment well before the storm arrives because power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.
Avoid contact with plumbing and bathroom fixtures because they can conduct electricity: do not wash hands, do not take a shower, do not wash dishes or do laundry.
Stay away from windows and doors, and stay off porches.
Do not lie on concrete floors or lean against concrete walls.
If you're caught outside during a storm, stay away from tall trees. Avoid open fields, beaches, and boats on the water. If possible, seek shelter in a thick growth of small trees or in a low lying area. Also avoid anything metal such as golf clubs/carts, tractors, bicycles, etc. Seek shelter in a car if possible, but avoid touching any of its metal parts.

Because lightning is unpredictable and can strike 10 miles outside of any rainfall the risk to individuals and property is increased. If you feel you hair standing on end (which indicates lightning is about to strike) squat low to the ground on the balls of your feet. Place your hands over your ears and your head between your knees. Make yourself the smallest target possible and minimize your contact it the ground. DO NOT lie flat on the ground.

Lightning strike victims carry no electrical charge and should be attended to immediately. The following are things you should check when you attempt to give aid to a victim of lightning:

Breathing - if breathing has stopped, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
Heartbeat - if the heart has stopped, administer CPR.
Pulse - if the victim has a pulse and is breathing, look for other possible injuries. Check for burns where the lightning entered and left the body. Also be alert for nervous system damage, broken bones, and loss of hearing and eyesight.

Your chances of being struck by lightning are estimated to be 1 in 600,000, but could be reduced even further by following these safety precautions.

Information provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Connect Socially With Tax Information

noreply@blogger.com (Anita) — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 15:37:00 +0000

Social Media Ways to Get Tax Information You Need

* Including ASL Videos and Tweets *

IRS Summertime Tax Tip 2011-09

If you prefer social media resources over hard copy documents, or you use your smartphone to work smarter, this will interest you!

The Internal Revenue Service delivers the latest information on tax changes, initiatives, products and services through social media like YouTube, Twitter, Smartphone Mobile Apps, Podcasts, and widgets.

Click here to watch how to connect with the IRS using the media list below.

Or choose a particular media tool from this list for details:

IRS2Go Mobile App: The IRS launched a smartphone application this year that lets you interact with the IRS using your mobile device. The mobile application can help you get your refund status and tax updates. IRS2Go is available for the iPhone or iTouch and the Android.
YouTube: The IRS Video Channels on YouTube provide with short, informative videos on various tax-related topics. The videos are in English, American Sign Language, and a variety of foreign languages.
Twitter Follow along with IRS tweets which include tax-related announcements, news for tax professionals and updates for job seekers. Follow us @IRSnews.
Audio files for Podcasts - The IRS creates audio files for use in podcasts. These short audio recordings provide useful information on one tax related topic. The audio files and their transcripts can be found in the Multimedia Center on IRS.gov. These files are also available as podcasts on iTunes.
Widgets - Widgets are tools that can be placed on websites, blogs or social media networks to direct others to IRS.gov for information. The IRS has developed a variety of widgets that feature the latest tax initiatives and programs. These widgets can be found on Marketing Express, the marketing site that allows IRS partners and tax preparers to customize their IRS communications products.

Just remember that the IRS uses these tools to share information with you. Do not post any confidential information on new or social media sites, especially your Social Security number or confidential information.

The IRS will not be able to answer personal tax or account questions on any of these sites. You can look up any questions you might have on their list of Frequently Asked Questions. You may also find help using the IRS Site Map.

To find links to all of IRS’s social media tools, visit www.irs.gov and click on “IRS New Media.”
Links:

IRS Summertime Tax Tip 2011-04, July 13, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 13:31:00 +0000

* A SUMMERTIME TAX TIP *

If you need to resolve a tax problem, have tax law questions, or you’re more comfortable talking with someone face-to-face, call or visit your local IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center (TAC) where you can spread out your records and talk with an IRS representative across the counter. No appointment is necessary, just walk in or call to take advantage of any of these services:

Understanding a notice or letter you received and need face-to-face assistance, or telephone help to understand what's next
Multilingual assistance takes away language barriers either in person, or over the phone with bilingual interpreters
Making payments are accepted at your local IRS TAC. Just be sure you know tax period and type of tax for the payment you are making; and be sure to bring any IRS notice you received about it.
Free preparation of federal tax returns for Earned Income Tax Credit or whose income is less than $49,000 - on the current and prior year - basic tax returns
Apply for Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) If you are not eligible for a Social Security number but need to file a tax return, bring the completed tax return, Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Identification Number, and certified identification documents to your local TAC to apply for your ITIN and file your return. For more information, see Publication 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens.
Alien Clearances Before leaving the United States, most aliens must obtain a certificate of tax compliance. This document, also popularly known as the sailing or departure permit, must be secured from the IRS before leaving the U.S. You can get the permit from your local TAC. For more information, see Publication 513, Tax Information for Visitors to the United States.
Tax Return and Tax Account Transcripts Do you need a copy of your tax return for financial aid or to obtain a mortgage? If so, a tax return or tax account transcript generally meet the requirements of these lending institutions. Visit your local TAC for free transcripts, typically available for the current and past three years.

For TAC locations, business hours and an overview of services, click here, or visit www.irs.gov. Just go to the “Individuals” tab and click on ”Contact My Local Office” in the left tool bar section under IRS Resources.

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:15:00 +0000

LET'S EAT FOR THE HEALTH OF IT!

Your food and activity choices each day affect your health -- how you feel today, tomorrow and in the future. The tips below are a good starting point toward a change for a healthy diet and a healthier you:

More in-depth information can be found by following each topic link above and by visiting the Ten Tips Nutrition Education Series. Sample menus are available to show how all the recommendations for each food group and nutrient intake can be integrated into a weekly menu. You can also find tips for eating out and key information on vegetarian diets, and more.

Improving what you eat and being active will help you to reduce your risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, some cancers and obesity.

For additional resources check out:

• www.DietaryGuidelines.gov
• www.Health.gov/paguidelines
• www.HealthFinder.gov

Information supplied by the USDA Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion

New Sunscreen Labels to Help you Get the Best Protection

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Fri, 24 Jun 2011 15:49:00 +0000

Beginning next summer the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is changing sunscreen labels to make it easier for you to pick a product that offers the protection level you want. The labels will clearly tell whether a sunscreen protects against sunburn, skin cancer and signs of premature skin aging; and whether it is a broad spectrum product.

Broad spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 15 or higher will protect against all three. Anything less than 15 SPF will only protect against sunburn and soon will be labeled with a warning that reads "Skin cancer/skin aging alert: Spending time in the sun increases your risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. This product has been shown only to help prevent sunburn, not skin cancer or early skin aging". Future labels will also include information on how much time a user can expect to get the declared SPF level of protection while swimming or sweating.

Spending time in the sun increases the risk of skin cancer and early skin aging. To reduce this risk, consumers should regularly use sun protection measures including:

Use sunscreens with broad spectrum SPF values of 15 or higher regularly and as directed.
Limit time in the sun, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most intense.
Wear clothing to cover skin exposed to the sun; for example, long-sleeved shirts, pants, sunglasses, and broad-brimmed hats.
Reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, more often if you’re sweating or jumping in and out of the water.

Follow this link for more information on sunscreen, basic information on skin cancer and skin safety.

Grants funds allocated for Lacoochee Community Center

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 17:40:00 +0000

After many years of wishing and hoping, the Lacoochee-Trilby communty received news that grant funds are being set aside for a communtiy center in Stanely Park. Many individuals across the county have been working to bring services to the Lacoochee-Trilby area and are pleased that a significant step has been taken toward building a communty center. The Pasco County Library, with grants funds, has offered a variety of programs to citizens in the Lacoochee-Trilby area. The Library has brought laptops with aircards to the Boys and Girls Club, Trilby Community Center, and other locations to provide citizens with access to Access Florida (food stamps/medicaid), employment assistance, as well as other programs. Once the communtiy center is built, the Pasco County Library is hoping to offer an array of library services there. For more informaiton regarding the funding for the new community center read the article in the St. Petersbrug Times - $300,000 grant set aside for community center in Lacoochee

Preparing Your Pets For Emergencies

noreply@blogger.com (Jen Leek) — Fri, 13 May 2011 18:35:00 +0000

Protecting Your Pets

Whether you decide to stay put or evacuate to a safer location, you will need to make plans in advance for your pets in the event of an emergency. If you evacuate your home, your pets should not be left behind. Pets most likely cannot survive on their own; and if by some remote chance they do, you may not be able to find them when you return.

If possible, take your pets with you if have to evacuate. However, if you are going to a public shelter, it is important to note that animals may not be allowed inside. Unfortunately, many disaster evacuation centers (and specifically Red Cross evacuation centers) cannot accept pets because of states' health and safety regulations. In fact, service animals that assist people with disabilities are currently the only animals allowed in some evacuation centers. Plan in advance for shelter alternatives that will work for both you and your pets.

Plan for Pet Disaster Needs:

Find out which motels and hotels in the area you plan to evacuate to allow pets well in advance of needing them. There are also a number of guides that list hotels/motels that permit pets and could serve as a starting point. Include your local animal shelter's number in your list of emergency numbers, they might be able to provide information concerning pets during a disaster.
Take pet food, bottled water, medications, veterinary records, cat litter/pan, can opener, food dishes, first aid kit and other supplies with you in case they're not available later. Consider packing a "pet survival" kit which could be easily deployed if disaster hits.

During a Disaster

Bring your pets inside immediately.
Have newspapers on hand for sanitary purposes. Feed the animals moist or canned food so they will need less water to drink.
Animals have instincts about severe weather changes and will often isolate themselves if they are afraid. Bringing them inside early can stop them from running away. Never leave a pet outside or tied up during a storm.
Separate dogs and cats. Even if your dogs and cats normally get along, the anxiety of an emergency situation can cause pets to act irrationally. Keep small pets away from cats and dogs.
In an emergency, you may have to take your birds with you. Talk with your veterinarian or local pet store about special food dispensers that regulate the amount of food a bird is given. Make sure that the bird is caged and the cage is covered by a thin cloth or sheet to provide security and filtered light.

After a Disaster

If after a disaster you have to leave town, take your pets with you. Pets are unlikely to survive on their own.
In the first few days after the disaster, leash your pets when they go outside. Always maintain close contact. Familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and your pet may become confused and lost. Also, snakes and other dangerous animals may be brought into the area with flood areas. Downed power lines are a hazard.
The behavior of your pets may change after an emergency. Normally quiet and friendly pets may become aggressive or defensive. Watch animals closely. Leash dogs and place them in a fenced yard with access to shelter and water.

Sources:
http://www.fema.gov/plan/prepare/animals.shtm
http://blog.usa.gov/post/5395146652/plan-care-for-your-pets-during-emergencies

Resources:
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/petprotect.asp

Foreclosure Help in Florida

noreply@blogger.com (Rnmihayden) — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 17:04:00 +0000

Are you behind in your mortgage payments and need help? The Florida Hardest Hit service may be able to help you. The program is funded by the U.S. Treasury. To qualify for assistance you must meet the following criteria:

An eligible homeowner:

Must be a Florida resident;
Must occupy property as primary residence (the property cannot be vacant, abandoned or rented);
Borrower/co-borrower must be unemployed or underemployed through no fault of his/her own, which makes the first mortgage unaffordable;
Must have documented total household income at or below 140% of the area median income (AMI), adjusted for household size;***
Must have an active checking/savings account that can be debited by the ACH method of funds transfer;
May not have unencumbered assets of $5,000 or more, or three times the current monthly mortgage payment (whichever is greater);
Cannot have a bankruptcy that has not been discharged or dismissed; and
Cannot have been convicted of a mortgage-related felony in the last 10 years.

The current mortgage:

Must be serviced by a participating lender, who agrees to accept payments on behalf of the homeowner;
Must not be more than 180 days past due at the time of application;
Must have been originated on or before January 1, 2009; and
Must have an existing principal balance of less than $400,000.

Get more information from the Florida Hardest Hit Site here.

***Based on information from huduser.org, 140% of the estimated Average Median Income in 2010 for Pasco residents are listed below:

1 Person Household	$58,200.00
2 Person Household	$66,550.00
3 Person Household	$74,850.00
4 Person Household	$83,150.00
5 Person Household	$89,800.00
6 Person Household	$96,450.00
7 Person Household	$103,100.00
8 Person Household	$109,750.00

Free SCORE Workshops

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 16:40:00 +0000

Need Help for your Small Business?

SCORE is a non-profit organization that provides free services dedicated to the success of small businesses nationwide. SCORE offers hands-on help to new or existing businesses including entrepreneur education, mentoring, and funding assistance.

SCORE Counselors are volunteers made up of businessmen and women who have been successful entrepreneurs, small business owners, senior corporate executives, and experienced professionals. Their experience and expertise will offer hands-on help geared toward your situation and needs.

SCORE Workshops available through September at Pasco County Libraries:

Starting a Home Business 101:
Tuesday, April 5th, 2011 from 5:30p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Centennial Park Branch Library

***

Introduction to QuickBooks:
Tuesday, April 12th, 2011 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Land O'Lakes Library

***

How to Successfully Obtain a Business Loan:
Wed., April 13th, 2011 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
South Holiday Library

***

Using the Internet in Your Business:
Thursday, April 14th, 2011 from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Regency Park Library

***

SCORE is sponsored by the US Small Business Association
Source: Pasco County Public Library Cooperative: E-Government Services

***

Plan for Retirement

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 14:45:00 +0000

The average American spends
20 years in retirement.

The three major elements of your retirement portfolio are Social Security benefits, savings and investments, and benefits from pensions. Financial security in retirement takes planning, commitment and, yes, money.

To help you plan for retirement each year the Social Security Administration sends you your personal Social Security Statement. Your Statement gives you an estimate of the monthly benefit amounts you and your family may qualify for now and in the future; benefits, on average, are equal to about 40 percent of what you earned before retirement. Once you've reviewed your Statement, you may want to explore a variety of retirement scenarios using a range of assumptions about your future earnings or when you stop working. You can do that with the Retirement Planner. The Planner not only tells you how to qualify for Social Security benefits, but it also includes a Retirement Estimator and Benefit Calculators that help you calculate your own benefit estimates. Follow this link to learn more about full retirement age, how to apply for retirement benefits or Medicare, what documents will be needed, and more.

Top 10 Ways to Prepare for Retirement (as provided by the U. S. Department of Labor:)
1. Start saving, keep saving, make it a priority, and stick to your goals. The sooner you start saving, the more time your money has to grow...it's never too early, or too late, to start.
2. Know your retirement needs. Experts estimate that you will need at least 70% of your preretirement income to maintain your standard of living once you stop working. You can request the Savings Fitness Guide to help with your financial future.
3. Contribute to your employer's retirement plan whenever offered. Your taxes will be lower, your company may kick in more, and automatic deductions make it easy. Over time compound interest and tax deferrals make a big difference in the amount you will accumulate.
4. Learn about your employer's pension plan. Find out what benefits you may be entitled to from your spouse. For more information, request What you should know about your retirement plan.
5. Consider basic investment principles. How you save can be as important as how much you save. Know how your savings or pension plan is invested, and remember to diversify to reduce risk and improve return.
6. Don't touch your retirement savings...you'll lose principal and interest, and you may lose tax benefits.
7. Ask your employer to start a plan if one is not currently offered.
8. Put money into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). These also provide tax advantages.
9. Find out about your social security benefits (as described above).
10. Ask questions of your employer, your bank or credit union, and your financial adviser...and make sure you understand the answers.

Brochures and other resources about retirement are available from the Social Security Administration.

The following Web sites can also be helpful:

Information provided by the SSA and DOL.

Florida KidCare health insurance

noreply@blogger.com (Dawn) — Thu, 17 Mar 2011 14:46:00 +0000

Child Health Insurance You Can Afford

Through Florida KidCare, the state of Florida offers health insurance for children from birth through age 18, even if one or both parents are working. It includes four different parts. When you apply for the insurance, Florida KidCare will check which part your child may qualify for based on age and family income.

MEDIKIDS: children ages 1 through 4.
HEALTHY KIDS: children ages 5 through 18.
CHILDREN’S MEDICAL SERVICES NETWORK: children birth through 18 who have special health care needs.
MEDICAID: children birth through 18. A child who has other health insurance may still qualify for Medicaid.

Some of the services Florida KidCare covers are:

Doctor visits
Check-ups and shots
Hospital
Surgery
Prescriptions
Emergencies
Vision and hearing
Dental
Mental health

Follow this link for information on eligibility and cost.

There are several ways to apply for Florida KidCare:

Apply online or

Print an Application and Instructions

If you've applied for Florida KidCare before, call 1-888-540-5437 to update your information by telephone.