July 2016 Newsletter

Hot Fun...

In the summertime!  It is getting pretty hot here in Aripeka, but if you look at other parts of the nation, we are really pretty comfortable when compared.  The temps we are experiencing are right at normal for this time of year in Aripeka, but for some reason, guess we just forget from summer to summer, it seems hotter than last year. 

Make sure to drink lots of water and use lots of sunscreen if you are working or playing outdoors to prevent heat related illnesses.

Your body normally cools itself by sweating. During hot weather, especially with high humidity, sweating just isn't enough. Your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels and you can develop a heat illness. Most heat illnesses occur from staying out in the heat too long. Exercising too much for your age and physical condition are also factors. Older adults, young children and those who are sick or overweight are most at risk. Drinking fluids to prevent dehydration, replenishing salt and minerals, and limiting time in the heat can help.

Heat-related illnesses include:

Heatstroke - a life-threatening illness in which body temperature may rise above 106° F in minutes; symptoms include dry skin, rapid, strong pulse and dizziness

Heat exhaustion - an illness that can precede heatstroke; symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid breathing and a fast, weak pulse

Heat cramps - muscle pains or spasms that happen during heavy exercise

Heat rash - skin irritation from excessive sweating

Independence Day...

July the 4th is here again!  Please remember that fireworks are not allowed in Aripeka West. They are dangerous to our residents ad to their homes.  the absolute best way to enjoy fireworks is to go to one of the official displays in the area, but if you cannot do that there are some great fireworks displays on TV.  

In Pasco County one of the biggest is Sparklebration being held at the Pasco County Fairgrounds on July 4th.

New Port Richey will host Kiafest July 1st and 2nd.

In Hernando County at the Fairgrounds will be Firecracker Smash'm Up On July 4th.

Other area Fireworks Displays

Have you heard of Gypsy Gold???

Gypsy Gold is a horse farm like no other!!  Just a couple of hours away from here in Ocala are some of the most beautiful horses you can imagine!  They are called Gypsy Vanner Horses.  Tours are available.

Get to know Alpacas...

Just a few miles to the north, you can visit an Alpaca Farm.  Alpaca Magic USA is open 7 days a week from 10AM till 2PM.  Maybe it is time for you to meet and Alpaca!

Live on the Wild Side...

Visit Wildlife Survival Sanctuary right here in our little corner of the world!  Located 

18212 Booming Rd Spring Hill, Florida just south of County Line Road and just east of 41.

Florida State Parks...

We have two very well known  Florida State Parks within an easy drive of Aripeka West, Weeki Wachee Springs State Park is located only about a 15 minute drive from here and Homosassa Springs State Park is less than a 45 minute drive.  While these are great parks, there are also other wonderful lesser known Florida State Parks nearby.  visiting Florida State Parks is fun and won't cost you too much!

Tried Kayaking??? Canoeing??? SUPing???

Plenty of places to try out Kayaking, Canoeing or SUPing (Stand Up Paddleboarding) near Aripeka West.  Of course if you have you own kayak or canoe you can start you paddle right here in Aripeka at Norfleets, but if you need to rent your kayak or canoe, there are also places nearby.  Including Paddling Adventures at Weeki Wachee Spring State Park,  The Kayak Shack at Roger's Park off Shoal Line, Weeki Wachee Kayaking  also on Shoal Line near the Christian Camp, Gill Dawg Marina on Miller's Bayou in Port Richey off 19 at Grand Avenue and at SunWest Park just south of Aripeka Road on 19 in Hudson.

Hiking Enthusiasts...

Tried of hiking the same old places around the local preserves?  Might want to expand your horizons a check out a few of these places, some are a little bit of a drive to get there, but worth for "the hike".
We need help...

For the past few months we have been having a problem with 4 Wheelers (ATV's)  entering the park through the back area and through the woods, usually at dusk and later.  If you see anyone operating a 4 wheeler inside the park, please let the office know.  Aripeka  West Park rules state that these vehicles CANNOT be ridden any place in the park at any time.  If a resident owns one, they must it transported in and out of the park on a trailer or in the back of a pick-up truck. 

 Happy 4th of July Stay safe and have fun!