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The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

       

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FEATURED STORY

Fit by 50: Land O’ Lakes man loses 130 pounds in one year

October 27, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

LAND O’ LAKES – Land O’ Lakes resident Chris Garrido has released a book, “Fit by 50: My Yearlong Journey from Death to Life,” that […]

This Week

Pasco MPO eyes regional transportation projects

October 27, 2025 By Justin Vick

ZEPHYRHILLS – Metropolitan Planning Organizations in Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties are continuing talks about joining forces to secure more funding for larger transportation projects across the Tampa Bay region.  Tania Gorman not only serves as executive director for the Pasco County MPO but she’s also a resident of Zephyrhills. She updated the Zephyrhills City […]

Winter Village Tampa returns for 10th season

October 27, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

TAMPA – Downtown Tampa is celebrating the 10th anniversary season of Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park with new attractions, expanded accessibility and a record number of local small businesses. Visitors can skate, shop and celebrate the spirit of the season from Nov. 21 to Jan. 4 at the Tampa Riverwalk. “Winter Village has grown […]

Podcast interviews Pasco County Fire Rescue leaders

October 26, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Administrator Mike Carballa talked leadership with leaders from the Pasco County Fire Rescue during the 55th episode of the “Pasco Podcast.” During the 31-minute episode, Carballa asked Special Operations Chief Lee Hudson about a moment when leadership made a critical difference during response.  Hudson talked about fire rescue and the […]

Moonlight and Ivory to showcase local talent

October 25, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

DADE CITY – Moonlight and Ivory has provided the community an opportunity to celebrate local talent for the past 27 years. Musicians and artists from Dade City, Zephyrhills, Wesley Chapel and beyond are busy preparing for another set of shows Nov. 1 at the Dade City Woman’s Club, 37922 Palm Ave.  Spectators can expect vocal and […]

Photographer showcases work in international show

October 24, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

LAND O’ LAKES – Liza Olivia Blecher, owner of Liza Olivia Photography, earned international recognition after one of her portraits was selected for display in the SEEN AGAIN International Art Show.  Liza traveled to Springfield, Illinois, where the exhibition was held Sept. 16 and 17 at the Hoogland Center for the Arts. “Being featured in […]

Zephyrhills buying home to fix neighborhood flooding

October 23, 2025 By Justin Vick

ZEPHYRHILLS – The City of Zephyrhills is taking a unique approach to fix flooding within the Park Hill subdivision, an area affected last year by Hurricane Milton.  Staff recommended buying the home at 6109 16th Street so the city could expand the existing retention pond along the west side of the road. This will create additional […]

Spooky season ushers in plenty to do at Hillsborough parks

October 23, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – Put on your scariest, cutest, silliest or best costume and join Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation for a wide variety of family-friendly Halloween activities.  From Halloween movies in the park and costume contests to Halloween-themed skate jams and an inclusive dance for adults with disabilities, Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation has something […]

Fall concert sought to uplift community

October 22, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

ST. LEO – Saint Leo University shared a message of hope Oct. 8 at its Pilgrims of Hope Jubilee 2025 Concert.  From African American spirituals like “Go Down Moses” to contemporary Christian tunes like “Hold on to Me” by Lauren Daigle to the classic rock of The Beatles’ “Here Comes the Sun,” the event showcased […]

Local Wildlife (10/22/25): Butterfly outreach

October 22, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Alan Misch brought out the tape measure to get a reading on this butterfly’s wings. They measured about seven inches in length. Their beauty, however, was immeasurable. 

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This Week (cont)

What’s Happening (10/22/25): Live Oak Theatre has new show

October 22, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Live Oak presents ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Jr.’ BROOKSVILLE – Live Oak Theatre announced that seats are available for the Youth Théâtre production of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jr.”  Eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts (Titus Richards/Noah Turner) sets about restoring an old race car with the help of his children, Jeremy (Charlie DaRocha/Rhodes Walkup) and Jemima (Ava […]

Adult ‘play’ care builds cognitive health through fun

October 21, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

TAMPA – Generations Club, a full-service nonprofit senior daycare center, has become the place for older adults to socialize, receive quality care and participate in purposeful activities that improve cognitive health.  “Gone are the days of plastic tablecloths and bingo,” CEO Kim Kasper said. “We are redefining adult day care to adult play care.”  From a […]

News Briefs (10/22/25): Recycling project benefits the homeless

October 21, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

  Recycling project benefits the homeless LAND O’ LAKES – The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club meets once a month at the Lutz Community Center for a craft day filled with creativity and purpose.  Among the many programs members support is the ongoing creation of sleeping mats for the homeless. This project has been close […]

Bullying fuels cancer survivor’s journey to CEO 

October 20, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

TAMPA – At just 21 years old, Raquel Caramello has transformed some of life’s hardest challenges into a story of courage, creativity and compassion. Born with Down syndrome and diagnosed with cancer at age 12, Raquel endured two and a half years of excruciating chemotherapy treatments and the heartbreak of losing her hair. When classmates […]

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Local Sports & Rec

Gulf Coast Bike Trek raises nearly $120K 

October 23, 2025 By justin

DUNEDIN – More than 125 cyclists from across the Tampa Bay area rode in the American Lung Association’s third annual Gulf Coast Bike Trek on Oct. 18 at the John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park.  The participants have raised nearly $120,000, and counting, to support the American Lung Association’s efforts to save lives through research, education […]

Hillsborough County seeks input on equestrian facility 

October 22, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

TAMPA – Hillsborough County is asking residents for input on a proposal that would exchange the current Bakas Equestrian Center property located off Race Track Road for a new, modern equestrian facility at the nearby county-owned Northwest Equestrian Park.   The Bakas Equestrian Center has served the community for more than two decades and is now […]

Sports & Rec – Check This Out

Adopt a Pet (3/26/25): English Muffin is quite the treat

March 26, 2025 By justin

English Muffin is an incredibly loving 2-year-old who lives to spread happiness. The moment she sees you, she will joyfully roll onto her back, eagerly awaiting belly rubs. Her tail never stops wagging, showcasing her happy and affectionate nature. Although English Muffin was previously adopted, she was returned because she prefers to be the only […]

USF Women’s Basketball volunteers with Habitat for Humanity

August 28, 2024 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The University of South Florida Women’s Basketball team volunteered with Habitat for Humanity on Aug. 24 in Safety Harbor. The players and coaches painted the exteriors of two Habitat Homes alongside the future homeowners, the Baker and Glazman families, according to a news release. This continues USF’s tradition of community service, as various USF sports […]

PHSC golf tournament

August 28, 2024 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) Foundation will host its annual golf tournament on Oct. 18, at the Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club in Dade City. Registration will be at 7:30 a.m., with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. For more information, contact Jen Ferguson at 727-816-3431 or . For sponsorship opportunities, visit Giving.PHSC.edu/golf.

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Reasons To Smile

Celebrate with your canine friend!

August 20, 2024 By Mary Rathman

National Dog Day is Aug. 26 — an opportunity to celebrate man and woman’s best friend, and to help find loving homes for dogs in the community. Here are five ways to make a difference: Adopt a new best friend Spay and neuter. Foster first. Not ready to adopt? Fostering is a great option to […]

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June 3, 2024 By advert

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WAVE Wellness Center — Tampa Bay’s Most Advanced Upper Cervical Spinal Care

April 8, 2024 By Mary Rathman

Tampa Bay welcomes WAVE Wellness Center, a state-of-the-art spinal care clinic founded by Dr. Ryan LaChance. WAVE … [Read More...] about WAVE Wellness Center — Tampa Bay’s Most Advanced Upper Cervical Spinal Care

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What’s Happening

Maxwell ready to serenade in Florida portion of tour

The soulful sounds of Maxwell have lingered on R&B and hip-hop playlists for more than 25 years. And Florida residents can hear those sounds live through The Serenade Tour.  The three-time Grammy Award-winner will perform at the Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood on Sept. 14 and at Amalie Arena in Tampa on Sept. 15.  Maxwell has released five albums since his debut: “Maxwell's Urban Hang Suite” (1996), “Embrya” (1998), “Now” (2001), “BLACKsummers'night” (2009) and ““blackSUMMERS’night” (2016).  His return to touring marks a reunion with Jazmine Sullivan, who joined him on his Maxwell 08 Tour. Sullivan’s discography includes “Fearless” (2008), “Love Me Back” (2010), “Reality Show” (2012) and “Heaux Tales” (2022). She won a Grammy for Best R&B Album for “Heaux Tales.” They’ll be joined by October London, who paid homage to Marvin Gaye on his album, “The Rebirth of Marvin.” His single, "Back to Your Place," has received plays on R&B … [Read More...] about Maxwell ready to serenade in Florida portion of tour

What’s Happening (01/08/25): Distefano returning to Tampa Theatre

TAMPA – Chris Distefano is coming back to Tampa Theatre, this time as part of his Chrissy Floridas tour. The performance starts at 8 p.m. March 14. Tickets range from $38.50 to $78.50 plus taxes and fees. Buy them at the Franklin Street Box Office and at tampatheatre.org. Distefano rose to success after performances on the “Guy Code/Girl Code” series.  He went on to star in IFC’s “Benders,” co-host the Netflix gameshow “Ultimate Beastmaster,” and starred in his own CBS sitcom. In 2022, Chris was selected by Jimmy Kimmel to host Jimmy’s latest TV venture, “Super Maximum Retro Show,” for ViceTV. His first full-length comedy special, “Size 38 Waist,” in 2019, encompassed his nice-guy charm and Brooklyn-born edge. His second special, “Speshy Weshy,” premiered on Netflix in May 2022. A third special is set to release in early 2025. When Distefano isn’t on stage, he’s on his couch recording podcasts, such as “Chrissy Chaos” with Mike Cannon, “Hey Babe!” With Impractical … [Read More...] about What’s Happening (01/08/25): Distefano returning to Tampa Theatre

What’s Happening (01/15/25): Podcast to come alive on stage

TAMPA – The McElroy Family will perform two shows Feb. 20 and 21 at Tampa Theatre. Their popular “My Brother, My Brother and Me” Is an advicecast for the modern era featuring three real-life brothers: Justin, Travis and Griffin McElroy. They will hold a live version of the podcast on stage at 7 p.m. Feb. 20  Launched in 2010 with new episodes dropping every Monday, the brothers McElroys will answer any query sent their way, each fielding questions falling into their respective areas of expertise.  Justin, Travis and Griffin have recruited their dad, Clint, for a campaign of high adventure at 7 p.m. Feb. 21. Just like its namesake podcast, the live tour invites fans to join the McElroys as they find their fortune and slay an unconscionable number of ... you know, kobolds or whatever in ... The Adventure Zone. Tickets cost $48.50 plus taxes and fees. Buy them at the Franklin Street Box Office and at www.tampatheatre.org.     Jan. 15 Art Club The … [Read More...] about What’s Happening (01/15/25): Podcast to come alive on stage

What’s Happening (01/22/25): SNL alum to perform at Tampa Theatre

TAMPA – Fred Armisen will bring his “Comedy for Musicians But Everyone is Welcome” tour to Tampa Theatre.  Armisen is an 11-season veteran of “Saturday Night Live,” but he has stayed busy with acting credits in “Portlandia,” “Wednesday” and “Los Espookys.”  He also voices characters in the hit animated “Super Mario Bros” movie as well as characters in “Big Mouth” and “The Mitchells vs. The Machines.”  Armisen is currently starring in the Broadway play “All In.” He also served as band leader of the 8G Band on “Late Night With Seth Meyers” from 2014 to 2024.  Tickets cost $48.50 plus applicable taxes and fees at the Franklin Street Box Office and at tampatheatre.org.    Jan. 22 Baby Storytime Babies, ages 0-1, and their caregivers gain a love for reading during Baby Storytime, a lap-sit program, at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.  10:15-10:40 & 11:15-11:40 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes   Toddler … [Read More...] about What’s Happening (01/22/25): SNL alum to perform at Tampa Theatre

What’s Happening (01/29/25): Grossology exhibit gets extension

Grossology exhibit gets extension TAMPA – The Museum of Science & Industry has decided to extend its Grossology: The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body through April 27. Grossology takes a fun and informative look at the ooey gooey things that go on inside our bodies, such as runny noses and body odor, using sophisticated animatronics and imaginative hands-on exhibits. Climb a human skin wall with warts, hairs, wounds and pimples that act as hand and foot holds or pump burp man full of soda from a three-foot-tall can, then help him get gassy relief with a booming belch.   Jan. 29 Baby Storytime Land O’ Lakes Library offers Baby Storytime, a lap-sit program meant to instill the love of reading in children at an early age. It is suitable for babies up to age 1 and their caregivers. Call 813-929-1214 for details.  10:15-10:40 & 11:15-11:40 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes   Babytime Children, ages 0-2, and their caregivers engage … [Read More...] about What’s Happening (01/29/25): Grossology exhibit gets extension

What’s Happening (02/05/25): Hot Boys to reunite in Tampa

The Hot Boys to reunite in Tampa CHARLOTTE – Live Nation Urban announced an exclusive three-performance slate of shows headlined by Lil Wayne with special guests Hot Boys (B.G., Juvenile and Turk), presented by Lil’ WeezyAna.  The three-show run includes a stop Feb. 21 at Amalie Arena in Tampa. Buy tickets at lilweezyanafest.com. Lil Wayne, B.G., Juvenile and Turk took the stage together for the first time in over 15 years at last year’s sold-out Lil’ WeezyAna Fest in New Orleans. They treated audience members to a performance filled with hits like “I Need a Hot Girl” and “Neighborhood Superstar,” as well as their individual tracks like Juvenile’s “Back That Azz Up” and B.G.’s “Bling Bling.”    Feb. 5 Valentine's Stroll Buy Stop by the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center  and find something for your sweetheart. The Friends of the Starkey Ranch Library will have a stroll buy through Feb. 12 with books, crafts, gifts and cards with a Valentine's Day … [Read More...] about What’s Happening (02/05/25): Hot Boys to reunite in Tampa

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