Students, older adults connect through light
TAMPA – Lower elementary students at Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay took part in one of the school’s most cherished traditions: the annual Chanukah celebration with the residents at Aston Gardens.
The visit began with lively Chanukah songs that filled the room with energy and joy. The residents clapped along, many joining in softly, at first, as familiar melodies sparked memories.
After uniting in song, students and seniors gathered together around tables for a few spirited rounds of dreidel. Laughter echoed as everyone compared spins, traded chocolate gelt and enjoyed the friendly competition.
The students also brought fresh latkes and applesauce.
Many residents commented on how meaningful it was to celebrate together and how the students’ presence brightened their day.
Performing Arts Series returns
NEW PORT RICHEY – Tickets are on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Performing Arts Series.
- Jan. 9 – Yacht Rock (1970s and 1980s rock).
- Feb. 6 – Dwight Icenhower (Elvis Presley tribute).
- Feb. 27 – Crystal Stark: Divas of Disco.
- March 20 – The Edge Effect (acapella).
- April 10 – Honky Tonk Chicks (Country).
Tickets range from $30 to $35 with discounts available for season ticket packages and groups. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.
District names Outstanding Seniors
LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools has identified 17 students as Outstanding Seniors.
Profiles for each student are available on the district website, highlighting scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and extracurricular activities.
Winners and their schools are as follows:
- Michael Whittaker, Anclote High School
- Danya Nasiri, Angeline Academy of Innovation
- Lindsay Fulop, Cypress Creek High School
- Braydin Gadouas, Fivay High School
- Miles Slavinsky, Gulf High School
- Mylah Short, Hudson High School
- Sadie Graber, J. W. Mitchell High School
- Mariana Vargas, Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation
- Emerson Phelps, Land O’Lakes High School
- Parker Baldwin, Pasco eSchool
- Olivia Simmons, Pasco High School
- Logan Owens, River Ridge High School
- Reese Van Brocklin, Sunlake High School
- Lucy Kossoff, Wendell Krinn Technical High School
- Jadon Wilson, Wesley Chapel High School
- Nathan Finkel, Wiregrass Ranch High School
- Ethan Stone, Zephyrhills High School
Pasco County Schools recognizes staff
LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized two staff members Dec. 16 for going above and beyond the call of duty.
- Tina Ray, of West Pasco Education Academy, not only has more than 25 years of experience in alternative education but also pitches in with programs at the school.
- Logan Gardner, of Watergrass Elementary School, was nominated for being a supportive teacher and team lead.
Quick Hits
- Lorea Sprackling of Lutz, was elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at The University of Tampa.
- Chloe Benoist of Odessa, was named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. Students must have an academic average of 3.5 with at least 12 hours to qualify.
- Benjamin Terlion, of Land O’ Lakes, earned a bachelor’s degree in aviation at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
- Jenna Backus, of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, won a $40,000 scholarship from the College Board.
- Nirvika Ramsetty, of Oakstead Elementary School, won an essay contest run by Pasco County Clerk and Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles.
- Ava Reiners, of Wendell Krinn Technical High School, is nominated for the U.S. Presidential Scholar Program in Career and Technical Education.
