Cathy Vitone caught this gator lurking in the grass in her backyard, in Land O’ Lakes. Alligators have inhabited Florida’s marshes, swamps, rivers and lakes for many centuries, and are found in all 67 counties, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Never feed an alligator and keep your distance if you see one.
Health News 07/24/2024
AdventHealth honors new residents
AdventHealth welcomed 48 new residents into its health care system with a White Coat Ceremony, marking the start of their post-graduate training. The white coat symbolizes their entry into the medical profession and their commitment to professionalism and empathy in medicine.
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The new doctors will train with top experts in various Graduate Medical Education (GME) programs at AdventHealth’s West Florida hospitals.
GME programs include new ones such as general surgery and OB/GYN at AdventHealth Tampa, and a Family Medicine Residency Program at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel.
AdventHealth also honored the first graduating class of Family Medicine Residents from AdventHealth Sebring.
Dr. Javier Correa, one of the graduating residents, will stay with AdventHealth Sebring and establish roots in Highlands County, according to a news release. Correa said it was special to be part of the first residency class, adding that he is already building relationships with many of the specialists, which he knows will be beneficial to himself and his patients.
Over the next three years, the AdventHealth West Florida division plans to graduate 88 residents through its programs at AdventHealth Sebring, AdventHealth Tampa and AdventHealth Wesley Chapel.
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Checkups for fitness and safety
AdventHealth physicians and staff teamed up with high schools in Hardee County to provide free sports physicals to student-athletes to make sure they are fit and healthy to participate in the upcoming sports season safely. Providers checked blood pressure, completed muscular-skeletal exams and looked for things like heart murmurs, joint tenderness, and neck and back injuries. Student-athletes who participate in football, swim, cross-country track, weight lifting, volleyball, soccer, baseball and basketball received free physicals. Here, a student-athlete gets a blood pressure check with Deloris Lazo, CMA. AdventHealth Centra Care offers sports physicals for $45 without an EKG and $75 with an EKG. For information, visit CentraCare.adventhealth.com/urgent-care/central-florida.
Alzheimer’s caregiver support
The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer an Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group on Aug. 1 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., for anyone who cares for or has a loved one with Alzheimer’s. A trained support group facilitator from the Alzheimer’s Association will lead this monthly support group. For information, call 813-929-1214.
Chalk Talk 07/24/2024
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Aquaculture in the classroom
For over two decades, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Marine Stock Enhancement Research team has been working with school administrators, teachers and students to bring aquaculture and Stock Enhancement Research into the classroom. The program is designed for students in fifth grade through college, and teaches students the basic principles of aquaculture, marine research and how stock enhancement plays a role in supporting Florida’s marine fisheries.
Since this program began in 2001, more than 30 Florida schools have successfully reared red drum in the classroom. This past year, nine schools participated statewide and 625 red drum fingerlings were distributed.
Through the collaboration, hatchery-reared red drum fingerlings, starter feed and technical advice are provided to participating schools. FWC biologists work with teachers to develop curriculum that meets Florida Sunshine State Standards and provides students the opportunity to design aquaculture (fish-raising) systems, perform daily animal husbandry (care) routines and conduct research projects, such as salinity tolerance tests, feed studies and water quality/chemistry investigations.
To learn more about the program, or to refer a teacher or school, email .
Drive event for students
The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office will host a back-to-school event, “Drive Into the School Year,” on Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 3030 N. Falkenburg Road in Tampa. The event aims to prepare students and their families for the new school year with essential services, making the transition smoother for families in the community.
Road tests, written tests and the issuance of driver licenses and learner’s permits will be available by appointment only for Hillsborough County students.
Students must meet requirements before taking a written or road skills test. Visit HillsTax.org/student-saturdays/ to determine eligibility and to make an appointment.
There will be limited walk-in services available for Hillsborough residents, including title and registration services, disabled parking permits, and certain driver license services such as renewals and address changes.
Community partners at the event will include free hearing exams, sports physicals, dental services and more.
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PHSC president receives high marks
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) president Jesse Pisors earned excellent scores on his first review by the college’s District Board of Trustees (DBOT), which was adopted at the June DBOT meeting, according to a news release.
Pisors received an average score of 4.79 out of 5, noting his strong communication, engagement, transparency and efforts toward bettering the college in his first four months.
He earned a 4.66 for board relations; 4.92 for community, state and national relations; 4.73 for fiscal accountability; 4.82 for leadership; and a 4.83 for accountability, the release says.
PHSC also is embarking on its next cycle of strategic planning to span 2025 through 2029. A Strategic Planning Steering Committee and five Goal Subcommittees have been established with more than 70 committee members representing all organizational divisions, academic divisions, campuses and locations, as well as staff, faculty, students and community partners.
The first draft of a comprehensive guide is anticipated to be completed this fall with the final draft presented to the DBOT by the end of 2024.
Young Scientist merit winners
Discovery Education has announced the 2024 3M Young Scientist Challenge 26 state merit winners and four honorable mention recipients. The middle school science competition features innovations from youth that demonstrate the power of science to improve the world.
To enter, students in fifth to eighth grade submitted a one- to two-minute video explaining their original idea using science to help solve an everyday problem. This year, the 3M challenge offered innovative ways for students to engage in science through new entry topics, including robotics, home improvement, automotive, safety, AR/VR, and climate technology.
All entries were reviewed by a diverse group of judges and evaluated on their creativity, scientific knowledge and communication skills.
Florida’s state merit winner is Aria Badganov Martinez of Oakstead Elementary, Pasco County.
To learn more about the challenge and meet all the 2024 competitors, visit YoungScientistLab.com.
For more information about Discovery Education’s digital resources and professional learning solutions, visit www.DiscoveryEducation.com.
50 women ‘making waves’
The Laker/Lutz News encouraged it readers, followers and fans to nominate women in the community who epitomize the word “dynamic.” By definition, dynamic is characterized as a constant change, or progress. It also is used to describe someone who possesses a positive attitude, great energy and new ideas. The 50 Most Dynamic Women of 2024 in the Tampa region (in no particular order) are:
Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Cristy Berry, Stephanie Bracknell Black, Valerie Blanks, Margaret “Margie” Bradley, Diana Brooks, Brie Burke, Maya Burke, Anjel Camenzuli, Lisa Marie Carroll, Angel L. Cook, Jessica Cooper, Jo Cumbo, Ana Dominguez de Shaw, Damaris Diaz, Whitney C. Elmore, Jackie Eden, Dayna Friedman, Dylan Gamez, Sandy Graves, Maria Hixon, Becky Jenkins, Alicia Johnson, Shannon Kennedy, Keke Kikilis, Traci Lamb, Kimberly Lamke, Melissa (Missy) Lea, Christy Maldonado, Amanda Mantaporn, Kristy Margiotta, Kelly Mothershead, Melissa Nordbeck, Roula Papapanos, Rosie Paulsen, Vanessa Phillips, Kimberly Poe, Debbie Lee Proulx, Christie Rinck, Erica Shireman, Melissa Sholler, Shnai Simmons, Jessica Smalley, Brandi Smith, Sabrina Stevens, Ana Hidalgo Stooks, Robyn Tanner, Linda Ward, Vicki Wiggins and Madonna Jervis Wise.
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Cristy Berry, Bfit Holistic Health and Wellness
Overcoming chronic health conditions, Cristy Berry reclaimed her life through holistic healing. “I saw numerous doctors over the years in search of a cure or at least something to help me have a quality life,” Berry said. “After many failures in that effort, I took my health into my own hands and began to learn how to heal the body naturally and how the body worked.” Berry’s health journey inspired her to earn board certification as a Doctor of Holistic Health and launch Bfit Holistic Health and Wellness to empower others to transform their lives.
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Stephanie Bracknell Black, Pioneer Florida Museum and Village
As executive director for Pioneer Florida Museum and Village, Stephanie Bracknell Black works to enrich cultural experiences in the community. The museum has opened its doors to thousands of students on field trips each year as well as allowed youth to log volunteer and community service hours for college. “Embracing a mindset of collaboration and mutual growth not only fosters a sense of community and goodwill but also paves the way for personal fulfillment and achievement,” she said. Prior to joining the museum in 2015, she worked for Habitat for Humanity of East & Central Pasco, impacting the lives of more than 50 families.
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Brie Burke, D.A.Y.S. (Depression Awareness & Youth/Young Adult Suicide)
If Brie Burke looks familiar, you may remember her from one of many movies, commercials and music videos she has starred in. She also has represented Pasco County in the pageant circuit. Burke is not only a professional actress, singer, model and pageant queen, but she also heads up D.A.Y.S. (Depression Awareness & Youth/Young Adult Suicide), a nonprofit that hits close to home. “It is my goal to shine a spotlight on the prevention of youth and young adult suicide, as well as to assist in any way those suffering from bullying, depression and the loss of a loved one due to suicide,” Burke said. “I know personally the effects this has on family and friends, having lost my cousin David to suicide. David is the reason for D.A.Y.S.”
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Jackie Eden, Pasco Economic Development Council
Many of the insights that Jackie Eden picked up over the years while owning and operating a business have been passed on to students at Pasco-Hernando State College. She serves as an adjunct professor as well as assistant director of the college’s Career and Testing Center. “My philosophy is to provide practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for real-world business challenges,” Eden said. Outside of work, she has contributed to groups like the RAP House, West Pasco Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Trinity, where she installed water filters and latrines in a Honduras village.
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Whitney C. Elmore, University of Florida/Pasco County BOCC (Board of County Commissioners)
Servant leadership is at the core of Whitney C. Elmore’s personal philosophy. As the Pasco County Extension director, Elmore strives to remove barriers to personal progress and professional development for her team, which allows them to better serve citizens. “Our guiding mission in Extension is to turn science into solutions which empower citizens socially, environmentally and economically,” Elmore said. “While my role is to empower my team members through servant leadership, so, too, is my mission for the citizens I serve.” She is currently serving as president-elect of the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Society of Certified Public Managers.
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Dylan Gamez, The Hacienda
Dylan Gamez’s journey took an exciting turn in 2009 after moving from Long Island to Florida, where she met her husband, Barrett, and discovered her calling in the hospitality industry while working at Walt Disney World. Being part of the reopening team for The Hacienda in 2021 has been a rewarding experience. She serves as marketing and public relations manager for the historic 1920s-era hotel. “Watching guests walk through the door is still as exciting as the first day we opened the doors,” Gamez said. “We’ve already hosted quite a few celebrities and dignitaries, but the highlight is always the awe on a first-time guest’s face.”
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Maria Hixon, Pasco Kids First
After rebuilding her life in Pasco County following the mass shooting at Virginia Tech University in 2007 and later raising two children as a single mother, Maria Hixon advocates for children. As development director for Pasco Kids First, Hixon works to create community ambassadors to continue the organization’s mission of building “brighter futures for children and families.” “The most important thing we can do is to love God and love others as best as we can, forgive others and ourselves, and move forward in making our corner of the world better as much as we can,” she said.
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Becky Jenkins, Mobley Homes
To say Becky Jenkins has survived in the male-dominated construction industry would be an understatement. She has thrived, as she celebrates 26 years in the building industry. Not only that, but she has climbed to the role of vice president at Mobley Homes, served on the board of directors of the Tampa Bay Builders Association and won 10 industry awards for design since 2012. She also has donated her time and skills to more than a dozen community organizations. “I have been able to give back to my community while raising a beautiful family and maintaining the role in my company of building new homes for local families to enjoy,” Jenkins said.
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Alicia Johnson, Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive
Alicia Johnson and Diana Brooks started Empowerment of Hope a decade ago while working together at a bank, initially operating from their homes. They recognized the need to help people dress professionally, affordably. They successfully transitioned their clothing swaps from annual to semi-annual events held at public locations for free, supported by the community. Their efforts have improved numerous lives. “Hearing the success stories, from individuals finding outfits for job interviews to new relationships being formed, has been incredibly humbling,” Johnson said. “These events have made a real difference in people’s lives, and knowing we played a part in that is deeply rewarding.”
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Traci Lamb, Caregiving Worldwide Network
After losing her father in 2022, Traci Lamb dedicated herself to caring for her mother. With support from her mother, Lamb took her business to the next level. She hosts a popular radio show on Legends Radio that reaches about 150,000 people and a streaming TV program that reaches over 600,000 viewers across seven countries, with plans for further expansion and celebrity collaborations. Raising awareness about caregiving has earned Lamb distinctions such as “Top 100 Healthcare Visionaries” in 2019 and “Top Healthcare Influencer” in 2020, from different media outlets.
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Kimberly Lamke, Believe It and Achieve It
Occupational therapist Kimberly Lamke never thought about owning a business — until her boss revealed in 2018 that she was retiring and closing the company. Wanting to stay connected to clients, Lamke launched Believe It and Achieve It. The company has thrived despite COVID-19 restrictions and the devastating news that Lamke was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2022. “I knew that I needed to be brave and tenacious to show my children, husband, family, friends and those I worked with that giving up is never an option — that taking each day as it comes and finding a positive in each day helps overcome adversity,” she said. “If you believe it, you can achieve it.”
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Christy Maldonado, Social Media Marketing by Christy Maldonado
Christy Maldonado moved to Tampa 23 years ago with the goal of becoming an entrepreneur. “That has been one of the best decisions for me,” said Maldonado, a retired attorney. “I’m dedicated to helping small businesses achieve their goals. As I always say, small businesses with big dreams are my focus.”Maldonado can certainly walk the walk when it comes to goals. Professionally, she became a two-time Amazon best-selling author. Personally, she has lost 158 pounds. Maldonado also has served on the board of directors for Operation Helping Hand Tampa and the Women-n-Charge networking group.
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Kristy Margiotta, Bella Partnerships
Kristy Margiotta overcame social anxiety to get involved in the community. This has allowed Margiotta, owner of Bella Partnerships, to build relationships, connect people with needed resources, as well as highlight local nonprofits and small businesses. I am real, relatable and am not afraid to stand up for what is right, as well as stand up for those that can’t stand up for themselves,” Margiotta said. She has been active in the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, serving on the board of directors for its Young Professionals Group and earning Ambassador of the Year honors in 2022.
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Kelly Mothershead, City of New Port Richey
Since losing her son to a prescription overdose in 2011, Kelly Mothershead has been devoted to preventing overdose deaths in the community. Mothershead has served on task forces, participated in panels and worked with lawmakers in hopes of making a difference. She stays busy as deputy mayor on the New Port Richey City Council and as a member of several organizations, and also remains one of Tampa Bay’s top 500 real estate agents. She is especially proud of securing a home for a local veteran and his daughter. “That is why I love what I do,” she said. “My goal in life has always been to help others and support my community.”
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Melissa Nordbeck, Candidate for Hillsborough County Commissioner District 2
Melissa Nordbeck sees an opportunity to engage the public more when it comes to local government. She is running for the District 2 seat on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners to increase access to the decision-making process. “Being 50 is extremely liberating,” Nordbeck said. “I feel stronger and braver than ever before. I am more driven and now I have in my sights my purpose — a new voice for northern Hillsborough County.” She enters the race with experience working within the Hammock Woods Special Tax District and Ryan Wells Foundation board of directors.
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Brandi Smith, Fred K. Marchman Technical College
Brandi Smith has all the ingredients for a successful career, but her mother’s passing last January prompted the award-winning chef to want to savor what’s truly important. “Until that day, I had been so focused on the daily grind of trying to raise my children, being a good wife, doing my part in supporting our family and focusing on making my business successful that I lost sight of what is truly important in our lives,” Smith said. “Doing good by others, making lasting memories, living a fulfilling life and leaving behind a legacy.” Smith owns Home Cooked Personal Chef Service, teaches culinary arts courses at Fred K. Marchman Technical College and volunteers with Moms Feeding Moms.
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Sabrina Stevens, West Coast Karate
Sabrina Stevens not only launched West Coast Karate during the COVID-19 pandemic but she also formed a 501c3 in 2022 that provides funding for children in need to pay for classes, after-school care and tournaments. The West Coast Competitive Martial Arts Foundation helps reach more students of all abilities, giving them a place to feel included and reach their goals. “I am influenced every time I see a child beaming with pride when they reach a goal,” Stevens said. “My philosophy is to never give up. I believe that with hard work, determination and resilience, all things are possible.”
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Ana Hidalgo Stooks, LifeChoices Family Medical
Raised by Cuban parents who immigrated to the United States in 1961 with $10 and a suitcase, Ana Hidalgo Stooks went on to make a tremendous impact in her community. Since becoming founding executive director of LifeChoices Family Medical in 2009, the clinic has served more than 57,689 women and families. Stooks also is the proud mother of five young adults. “My parents instilled in all six children the five Fs: faith, family, friends, freedom and fun,” she said. “All of these have been the core of who I am and what I aspire to do to make a difference in my community.”
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Robyn Tanner, Robyn Tanner Coaching
Robyn Tanner evolved from getting people in shape as a fitness instructor to changing people’s lives as a future self-strategist and transformation coach. With her no-nonsense coaching style, Tanner empowers women to quit settling, and to pursue their dreams with relentless courage and authenticity. She speaks with authority, having fought her way through grief, divorce, financial ruin, eviction and homelessness after a life-threatening misdiagnosis. “My business has become a symbol of possibility for countless individuals,” she said, “helping them launch businesses, shed over hundreds of pounds, rediscover their faith, break free from abusive relationships, secure green cards and visas, walk away from toxic jobs, complete marathons and triathlons, win multiple physique competitions, find love and even tie the knot.”
Diana Brooks, Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive
Having worked in the deathcare industry for more than 15 years, Diana Brooks encourages others to live every day to the absolute fullest. It’s advice that extends to the Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive, a charity event designed to uplift the female community. “Live unapologetically true to oneself,” Brooks said. “Think, ‘maybe I am not too extra. Maybe you’re just boring.’” If Brooks won the lottery tomorrow, she would continue organizing the event. “It’s just something that brings me so much joy,” she said.
Angel L. Cook, Leaders Insurance
Angel L. Cook credits the RAP House Youth Shelter for instilling in her confidence and a work ethic as a teenager. And she feels so fortunate to have found a career in insurance that has opened many more doors. “This career has allowed me to become active in my community — the same community that supported the RAP House that changed my life,” Cook said. “The minute I made that connection, there was no stopping me. I was and am determined to pay it forward for what this community did for me.” She has given back to organizations such as Community Service Council of West Pasco, Rotary Club of Holiday and the RAP House, just to name a few.
Amanda Mantaporn, Amanda Mantaporn Licensed Health Insurance Agent
Amanda Mantaporn is a licensed health insurance agent, an ambassador with the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, board member for the G2 Community Youth Foundation and a mother. Being self-employed allows her to be the best mom she can be. She values the flexibility in being there for her daughter when she is needed. “My biggest philosophy is to be there when you say you will,” Mantaporn said. “I strive to be on time, to not ‘call out,’ and most importantly to say no when I have a prior obligation. Living with intention is a priority in my life.”
Published July 17, 2024
Stuff the Backpack Drive looking for donations
The First National Bank of Pasco has announced the launch of its 15th annual Stuff the Backpack Drive. The initiative, Banking on Education, aims to collect school supplies for students in Pasco County schools, ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.
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“Our annual Stuff the Backpack Drive is a cherished tradition that underscores our commitment to the community,” said Jim Esry, president and CEO of First National Bank of Pasco, in a news release.
“Every year we see the incredible generosity of our neighbors, and we are hopeful that this year we will reach our goal of 500 backpacks filled with essential school supplies,” said Esry.
The bank encourages community members to participate by donating school supplies or making monetary contributions at any of its four branches in Pasco County: 13315 U.S. 301, Dade City; 4518 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills; 37215 State Road 54, Zephyrhills; and 23613 State Road 54, Lutz.
Items needed include: backpacks, colored pencils, crayons, folders, glue sticks, hand sanitizer, highlighters, liquid soap, paper, pencils and erasers, pencil boxes, pens, rulers, scissors, spiral notebooks, tissues, wired earbuds and Ziploc bags.
Monetary donations will be used to buy additional supplies. Collected items will be distributed to participating Pasco County schools.
All donations are being accepted until July 25.
For additional information, contact Jody Grenville, corporate secretary, at 352-521-7251 or .
Published July 17, 2024
Pasco water shortage order extended
Pasco County Utilities urges everyone to conserve water and follow watering guidelines, as western Florida’s drought conditions continue.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District is extending its current modified Phase I Water Shortage Order through Sept. 1, which limits lawn watering to once per week, according to a news release.
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“Even with recent rains in Pasco County, our regional conditions remain dryer than normal,” said Pasco County Utilities Customer Information & Services Director Sandra Anderson, in the release.
“Low reservoir levels coupled with lower-than-normal rainfall makes it vital to rely on irrigation guidelines as a resource for a healthy landscape. Efficient watering and proper plants and plant placement have proven that landscapes can thrive on once-a-week watering,” said Anderson.
These are some helpful tips on efficient landscape irrigation:
• Know your watering day. Visit bit.ly/PascoWatering.
• Stick to your watering schedule. Turf becomes drought tolerant. More is not better.
• Ensure your irrigation system is operating properly and efficiently.
• Email if you need assistance setting your irrigation controller.
• Minimize water loss from evaporation by watering only during the allowable time frame.
To find more tips for outdoor and indoor water conservation and efficiency, visit bit.ly/PascoLawn and bit.ly/PascoIndoor.
To report watering violations in your area, call 727-847-2411, or use the online reporting form at bit.ly/Water-Misuse.
Published July 17, 2024
Plant clearance
Kessler’s Cacti and Things, Bearss Groves, 14316 Lake Magdalene Blvd., in Tampa, will host a 30-day Summer Plant Clearance, which started on July 5. Clearance plants will be priced from $1.99, with cactus and succulents below wholesale prices. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call 813-264-5614.
Stalking its prey in Land O’ Lakes
Back to School Bash
Terlep Chiropractic, 8466 Northcliffe Blvd., in Spring Hill, will host its annual Back to School Bash on Aug. 3 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Vendors include: Kona Ice; KT WorX; 3 Little Ducks Crochet Co.; Eyeriz Face Painting; Life Blood South; Get Bear Stuffed; ABSolute Fitness; Jazzy’s Glam Bar; Divinity Wreaths; Air Trampoline; and WCMIOrtho. For information, call 352-666-2222, or visit the event Facebook page at http://bit.ly/4ednPPd.