Mary Rathman

LOLHS hosts IB information night
Land O’ Lakes High School will host several International Baccalaureate program information nights for applicants seeking ninth-grade admission in the 2014-15 school year. Upcoming sessions are from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as follows:
• Nov. 7 at John Long Middle School, 2025 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel
• Nov. 12 at Weightman Middle School, 30649 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel
• Nov. 14 at Pasco Middle School, 13925 14th St., in Dade City
For information, call Jeff Morgenstein at (813) 794-9429 or (352) 524-9429, or email .
Applications can be downloaded at lolhs.pasco.k12.fl.us.

 

Stop Bullying workshop
Crossroads Community United Methodist Church, 26211 County Line Road in Wesley Chapel, will host a free Stop Bullying Workshop, presented by Sunrise of Pasco County Prevention Team, on Nov. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Participants can learn to detect signs of bullying, understand cyberbullying, how to help other parents and youth facing bullying, and more. The event is for parents as well as children in grades 6 through 12.
For information, email .

 

Virtual language clubs offered
Pasco eSchool is partnering with Middlebury Interactive Languages to launch virtual language clubs for elementary-age students.
This is a six-week online language club starting Nov. 11 and running through Dec. 20. Club members will benefit from weekly club sessions that will include interactive and language-rich activities in a virtual group setting.
This is a fee-based program offering instruction in the following languages:
• K-2, Spanish on Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m., and French on Thursdays at 4:30 p.m.
• Grades 3-5, Spanish on Wednesdays at 3:30 p.m., and French on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m.
Students are not required to be Pasco County residents.
The fee is $103.25, and includes a convenience charge for online payment.
To learn more, visit eschool.pasco.k12.fl.us.

 

Academy at the Lakes tour
Academy at the Lakes Wendleck Campus is hosting a Sunday Fun Day on Nov. 17 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Students from pre-kindergarten through first grade can enjoy art, reading and math games with teachers, while parents can tour the campus and learn more about the Academy. Activities are for children ages 3-7, but child care will be on hand for older children to play on the playground.
The campus is at 2331 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.
To RSVP, email .

 

Corbett hosts open house
Corbett Preparatory School of IDS, a school for pre-kindergarten through eighth grade, is hosting an admissions open house on Nov. 20 at 8:30 a.m. Prospective families can get an overview of the school and will learn about the academic curriculum, as well as the fine arts, sports and technology programs.
The open house includes a tour of the campus. A light breakfast will be served.
The school is at 12015 Orange Grove Drive in north Tampa.
To RSVP or for information, call Jennifer Morrow at (813) 961-3087, or email her at .

 

Great American Teach-In
Watergrass Elementary School, 32750 Overpass Road in Wesley Chapel, is looking for people from the community and parents interested in participating in the Great American Teach-In on Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Those interested in reading a story, talking about a job, or sharing a hobby, please call Amanda Boria at (813) 346-0600, or email .

 

Nicole Kandil joins orchestra
Nicole Kandil of Lutz has earned membership in the Bob Jones University Symphony Orchestra in Greenville, S.C. Membership in the top-tier orchestra is by audition only.
Kandil is currently pursuing a degree in music education.

 

Local students make semifinalist list for National Merit
The National Merit Scholarship Corp. has announced the names of approximately 16,000 seminfinalists in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Hillsborough County Public Schools led the state in the number of National Merit semifinalists, with 60 students earning the honor. Local students include:
• Rachel Hargrove and Shahob Miltenberger, Land O’ Lakes High School
• Bridget Weber, Sunlake High School
• Stephen Hurley, Steinbrenner High School
• Rohith Ravi, Freedom High School
• Jorge Rodriguez, Sickles High School
• Kiana Outen, Wharton High School
• Chelsea Chitty, Wiregrass Ranch High School

 

New charter school launches website
Classical Preparatory School, a new charter school planned for Land O’ Lakes opening in the fall of 2014, has launches its website at www.ClassicalPrep.org. The website serves as a resource for information about the school’s program, including frequently asked questions, and a letter of interest form for prospective students.

 

Heather Edwards elected to student government
Heather Edwards, a freshman and psychology major at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tenn., was elected to the school’s student government for freshman class student services for the 2013-14 school year. Edwards is a native from Lutz. 

Veterans Elementary festival
Veterans Elementary School PTA will host an Owl at the Moon fall fundraising festival on the school campus, 26940 Progress Parkway in Wesley Chapel, on Oct. 25 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The event will include carnival games, inflatables, a dunk tank, photo book, pumpkin decorating contest, music, vendors, and concessions. Proceeds from the event will help the PTA provide essential programs and services to the school.

 

Air Force colonel to speak at Saint Leo
Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Sheri Andino Straka, a resident of Lake Jovita, will speak at Saint Leo University’s Teco Hall Oct. 24 at 6 p.m. Straka is the recipient of the Bronze Star and the Legion of Merit. She currently is the Air Force JROTC instructor at Springstead High School in Spring Hill where she also serves as the senior aerospace science instructor. Her presentation is one of several special programs in celebration of Saint Leo University’s 40^th anniversary of those who serve the nation. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, call (352) 588-7233.

 

Weightman hosts All Pro Dads
Thomas Weightman Middle School hosted its first All Pro Dads Day breakfast in the school’s media center on Oct. 2. The event connected 75 dads and their middle school students. For an upcoming schedule of more All Pro Dads meetings, visit AllProDad/3830.

 

Robotic showcase at UT
Robocon Tampa Bay will be held Oct. 26-27 at the Bob Martinez Sports Center at the University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., in Tampa. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. Guests can watch a full-scale robotic competition with massive Frisbee shooting robots, participate in a college and career fair, and learn more about industrial and medical robotics, and tech careers in Tampa Bay. For information, visit RoboconTampaBay.com.

 

PHCC to host free workshop
Pasco-Hernando Community College will host a free information workshop “Knowing Your Options for High School and Beyond” on Oct. 29 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at its West Campus,10230 Ridge Road, in New Port Richey. Representatives from the Pasco County school district and PHCC will provide information on advanced placement, dual enrollment, International Baccalaureate programs, and more. Space is limited. For reservations, email .

 

Bridge building contest at Saint Leo
The Department of Mathematics and Science at Saint Leo University, State Road 52 in St. Leo, will host its annual Bridge-Building/Bridge-Breaking competition on Oct. 30 at 6:30 p.m. in the Greenfelder-Delinger boardrooms of the Student Community Center. Students from kindergarten through high school can watch small-scale model bridges built by physics and engineering students be tested for weight. All bridges are destroyed at the end of the event. Those attending also will have a chance to speak to faculty members. For information, call Jo-Ann Johnston at (352) 588-8237.

 

Nicole Kandil joins orchestra
Nicole Kandil of Lutz has earned membership in the Bob Jones University Symphony Orchestra in Greenville, S.C. Membership in the top-tier orchestra is by audition only. Kandil is currently pursuing a degree in music education.

 

District launches new online tool
Hillsborough County parents now have the option to use the school district’s new grade book tool, Edsby, which provides classroom assignments and grades. To register, go to sdhc.edsby.com. Parents will need the name of the child’s school, the child’s student number, last four digits of the child’s Social Security number, and the child’s birthday. An Edsby registration video tutorial can be found at sdhc.k12.fl.us. For information, call Grace Posada at (813) 840-7064.

 

Local students make semifinalist list for National Merit
The National Merit Scholarship Corp. has announced the names of approximately 16,000 seminfinalists in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Hillsborough County Public Schools led the state in the number of National Merit semifinalists, with 60 students earning the honor. Local students include:
• Rachel Hargrove and Shahob Miltenberger, Land O’ Lakes High School
• Bridget Weber, Sunlake High School
• Stephen Hurley, Steinbrenner High School
• Rohith Ravi, Freedom High School
• Jorge Rodriguez, Sickles High School
• Kiana Outen, Wharton High School
• Chelsea Chitty, Wiregrass Ranch High School

 

Land O’ Lakes thespians excel
The Land O’ Lakes High School Thespians Troupe 4740, took part in a one-act play competition at Haines City High School over the Oct. 5 weekend. The group performed the play “Drop Dead, Juliet” and went on to receive a rating of Excellent. Cast member Carinne Julien also received the All-Star Cast award.

 

New charter school launches website
Classical Preparatory School, a new charter school planned for Land O’ Lakes opening in the fall of 2014, has launches its website at www.ClassicalPrep.org. The website serves as a resource for information about the school’s program, including frequently asked questions, and a letter of interest form for prospective students.

 

Heather Edwards elected to student government
Heather Edwards, a freshman at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tenn., was elected to the school’s student government for freshman class student services for the 2013-14 school year. Edwards is a psychology major native from Lutz.

 

Zephyrhills schools support anti-bullying
Zephyrhills area schools are encouraging students, teachers and staff to wear black and yellow on the last Friday of each month as part of the “Bee Bully-Free Initiative.” In addition, the initiative plans to provide free stickers and coloring book pages to schools that request them, to spread the word by participating in the Great American Teach-In, and provide certificates and awards for students who transform from bullies into kinder versions of themselves. The initiative hopes to sponsor and provide assembly programs, BMX demonstrations, skydiving jump-ins, and team-building and confidence-building games and activities at no cost to schools throughout the school year. For details, visit facebook.com/beebullyfree. Upcoming “Black & Yellow Fridays” are: Oct. 25, Nov. 22, Dec. 20, Jan. 31, Feb. 28, March 28, April 25 and May 30.

Education recognized in Pasco County
The Pasco Education Foundation received a donation of $10,000 from Humana in support of its educational program at the Sept. 17 school board meeting. Participating in the presentation, from left, are Superintendent Kurt Browning, Pasco Education Foundation operations vice president Stacey Capogrosso, Humana president and chief executive Tom Avramis, Humana’s Tampa director of accounting management Ray Hodorski, and school board chair Cynthia Armstrong.

Sanchez receives UPS scholarship

Javier Sanchez, a senior at Saint Leo University, has been selected to receive a $2,400 UPS scholarship provided through the Florida Independent College Fund.
He is the son of Javier Garcia and Primitiva Garcia, and is a 2011 graduate of Zephyrhills High School.
Sanchez is majoring in sport business and is a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, the Sport Business Association, and Toastmasters. He also has participated in four varsity sports programs.

 
Human trafficking presentation
The Parent-Teacher-Student Association at Charles S. Rushe Middle School will host Officer Alan Wilkett of the Pasco County Sheriff’s office on Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m. for a presentation on “What Parents Need to Know About Human Trafficking.” Tampa Bay is one of the leading sources for human trafficking in Florida.
Parents of elementary or middle school children who would like to attend should arrange for child care for the evening. The school is at 18654 Mentmore Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.
For information or questions, call Tammy Curtis at (813) 909-4200.

 
KnowledgePoints celebrates five years
KnowledgePoints Tutoring is celebrating its five-year anniversary with a series of special events throughout October, including an essay contest. There also will be an open house on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
During the month, KnowledgePoints Land O’ Lakes will offer all diagnostic testing free, as well as a savings discount for those that prepay their child’s program.
For information, visit KnowledgePoints.com/landolakes.

 
USF offers retirement workshop
USF Continuing Education will offer a two-day workshop, “Planning for a Balanced Retirement: It’s Not Just About the Money,” on Oct. 25-26 for adults ages 50-65. It will take place at Unitarian Universalist Church, 11400 Morris Bridge Road, in Tampa.
The workshop will look beyond financial issues and focuses on the personal and psychological process of finding purpose and satisfaction in life.
The workshop is $395 per person before Oct. 14, and $435 per person after Oct. 14. There is a discount for those registering as a couple.
For information, visit conted.usf.edu/transitions.

 
Home Improvement Education Scholarships
Hillsborough County Public Schools and the Tampa’s city water department are teaming up to support neighborhood revitalization.
Prequalified utility customers may be eligible for scholarships through the Hillsborough Education Foundation. For $50, a prequalified customer can register for a $216 hands-on eight-week home improvement course. The course is designed for adults looking to upgrade their home improvement skills or looking to explore a new career.
The courses are at Erwin Technical Center, 2010 E. Hillsborough Ave., in Tampa, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays starting Oct. 22.
Seats are limited. Vouchers are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
For information, visit tampagov.net/DIY or call the water department at (813) 274-8121 for a tuition voucher.

 
District launches new online tool
Hillsborough County parents now have the option to use the school district’s new grade book tool, Edsby, that provides classroom assignments and grades.
To register, go to sdhc.edsby.com. Parents will need the name of the child’s school, the child’s student number, last four digits of the child’s Social Security number, and the child’s birthday. An Edsby registration video tutorial can be found at sdhc.k12.fl.us.
For information, call Grace Posada at (813) 840-7064.

 
PHCC collects canned food
Pasco-Hernando Community College Human Services Club members will compete in The Volunteer Way’s fundraising competition “Canstruction” on Oct. 18 at the Pasco Government Center, 7535 Little Road, in New Port Richey.
The exhibit will be open to the public Oct. 21-25 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
PHCC has a goal to collect more than 1,000 cans of food for the event. All food collected will be donated to The Volunteer Way Food Bank after the competition.
Collection barrels are located in the library on the West Campus, 10230 Ridge Road, through Oct. 17.

 
Local students make semifinalist list for National Merit
The National Merit Scholarship Corp. has announced the names of approximately 16,000 seminfinalists in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Hillsborough County Public Schools led the state in the number of National Merit semifinalists, with 60 students earning the honor. Local students include:
• Rachel Hargrove and Shahob Miltenberger, Land O’ Lakes High School
• Bridget Weber, Sunlake High School
• Stephen Hurley, Steinbrenner High School
• Rohith Ravi, Freedom High School
• Jorge Rodriguez, Sickles High School
• Kiana Outen, Wharton High School
• Chelsea Chitty, Wiregrass Ranch High School

 
Dominguez graduates from Cornell summer program
Devon Dominguez of Odessa has graduated from Cornell University’s summer college program.
The summer program invites high school sophomores, juniors and seniors to spend three or six weeks on the Cornell campus in Ithaca, N.Y., experiencing what it’s like to live and learn at an Ivy League university.
Students take official courses, earn college credits and explore majors and career options.

 
Beautification project at Watergrass
During the month of September, employees of Lowes Home Improvement store in Zephyrhills volunteered hours to beautify the campus of Watergrass Elementary School in Wesley Chapel. The store donated flowers, shrubs and 100 bags of mulch.
In addition, the employees erected a fence behind the Elf Owl classrooms, providing the students with autism a safe, secure play area.
This group is seeking various equipment donations for use within this area so students can practice gross and fine motor skills, as well as communication and socialization skills.
If interested in donating to this project, contact the school at (813) 346-0600.

Local sixth-grader crowned at pageant
Ashlynn Nicole Diaz, a sixth-grader at John Long Middle School in Wesley Chapel, was crowned the new 2013 Miss American MAC Florida Citrus Preteen at a pageant Sept. 1 at Downtown Disney.
MAC is more formally known as Miss American Coed.
Diaz volunteers for the Fill-a-Heart Project, a program that makes pillows for breast cancer survivors. She also participates in Relay For Life, Autism Walks and volunteers at Metropolitan Ministries in Tampa.
At the competition, Diaz received the highest awards for best academic achievement and best interview. She will represent Florida at nationals during Thanksgiving week in Orlando.

Red Ribbon Week kick-off
Red Ribbon Week is a national drug prevention program used by the Pasco County school system to teach drug prevention in schools. The kickoff for this year’s event is Oct. 28 from 2 p.m. to dusk at the historic courthouse in Dade City.
For the past four years, Office Friendly has decorated the \courthouse with red ribbons. It also hosted a pep rally to spread the anti-drug message.
Cpl. David Hink is in need of red ribbon material to decorate the courthouse. He is asking local businesses to decorate their storefronts as well.
Anyone who can help with donation should call Cpl. Hink at (352) 424-4827.

Open house at CDS
Carrollwood Day School is hosting two open houses at its campus at 1515 W. Bearss Ave.
There will be an open house for middle and high school students on Oct. 6 at 1 p.m., and another for high school students only on Nov. 5 at 7 p.m.
To RSVP, contact Michelle Caceres at (813) 920-2288, or .

John Long Middle walkathon
In an effort to raise money to replace photography equipment stolen from Dr. John Long Middle School last year, the school’s PTSA is coordinating a Go-Take-A-Hike Walkathon on Oct. 18.
Pledge packets for this pre-collection walkathon will be sent home with students on Oct. 7.
Students will have opportunities to receive a “get out of class” pass, join a “minute to win it” party, get a T-shirt, grab cash and prizes in a cash machine, or win gift cards.
Visit Facebook.com/JohnLongPTSA.

PHCC peace week
Pasco-Hernando Community College will host keynote speakers, guest lecturers, exhibits, presentations, interactive workshops, peace and religion festivals, and musical performances throughout Peace Week Oct. 7-11.
All events are on the West Campus in New Port Richey, East Campus in Dade City, North Campus in Brooksville, and the Spring Hill campus.
For a daily agenda of activities, times and locations, visit www.phcc.edu/peace, or call (877) 879-7422. 

Open house at Corbett Prep
Corbett Preparatory School, 12015 Orange Grove Drive, in Tampa, will host admission open houses Oct. 9 and Nov. 20 for students in prekindergarten through eighth grade. It begins at 8:30 a.m.
Each date includes an overview of the school, tour of the campus and a light breakfast. Personal tours can be scheduled at any time.
For information, call admissions director Jennifer Morrow at (813) 961-3087.

PHCC collects canned food
Pasco-Hernando Community College Human Services Club members will compete in The Volunteer Way’s fundraising competition “Canstruction” on Oct. 18 at the Pasco Government Center, 7535 Little Road, in New Port Richey.
The exhibit will be open to the public Oct. 21-25 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
PHCC has a goal to collect more than 1,000 cans of food for the event. All food collected will be donated to The Volunteer Way Food Bank after the competition.
Collection barrels are located on the West Campus, 10230 Ridge Road, in the library through Oct. 17.

Local students make semifinalist list for National Merit
The National Merit Scholarship Corp. has announced the names of approximately 16,000 seminfinalists in the 59th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.
Hillsborough County Public Schools led the state in the number of National Merit semifinalists, with 60 students earning the honor. Local students include:

• Rachael Hargrove and Shahob Miltenberger, Land O’ Lakes High School
• Bridget Weber, Sunlake High School
• Stephen Hurley, Steinbrenner High School
• Rohith Ravi, Freedom High School
• Jorge Rodriguez, Sickles High School
• Kiana Outen, Wharton High School
• Chelsea Chitty, Wiregrass Ranch High School

Devon Dominguez graduates from Cornell
Devon Dominguez of Odessa has graduated from Cornell University’s summer college program.
The summer program invites talented high school sophomores, juniors and seniors to spend three or six weeks on the Cornell campus in Ithaca, N.Y., experiencing what it’s like to live and learn at an Ivy League university.
Students take official courses, earn college credits and explore majors and career options.

Career and tech adult commencement
Pasco County Schools’ Office for Career and Technical Education will host the 79th Adult Commencement on Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. at Wesley Chapel High School, 30651 Wells Road. The ceremony is open to the public.

Open house at Double Branch
Double Branch Elementary School will have an open house Sept. 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. for kindergarteners to second graders, and from 7 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. for those in grades 3 through 5. The PTA will conduct a general assembly meeting in the cafeteria at 6:30 p.m. Spirit items will be available. The school is at 31500 Chancey Road in Wesley Chapel. For information, call (813) 346-0400.

English as second language class
Tampa Bay Presbyterian Church, 19911 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., will host an English as a Second Language class on Thursdays beginning Sept. 5 from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Classes are for beginner through intermediate level speakers. Topics include American culture, English idioms and slang. Cost is $20 per quarter, which covers the workbook and class materials. For information or to register, call Heather at (813) 753-8567.

PHCC hosts artist Michael Conway
Pasco-Hernando Community College will host a lecture by Michael Conway, artist of Beyond the Proof Sheet, the first fine arts exhibit of the season, at Rao Musunuru M.D. Art Gallery on Sept. 5 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Conway will discuss his artistic journey from an early focus in photography to the use of mixed media. The gallery is in the library of the West Campus, 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey. For information, call (727) 816-3231.

SAT and ACT practice test offered
The Wesley Chapel High School PTSA is sponsoring the Princeton Review Practice test on Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the school’s cafeteria. The practice test features a mix of questions from both the ACT and SAT. Cost per student is $20. Preregistration is preferred. Students will need to arrive by 8:45 a.m., and bring a calculator and No. 2 pencils. Lunch will be provided. A detailed score report will provide a side-by-side comparison of a student’s projected test scores. For information, call the school at (813) 794-8700, or email Heidi Bernaldo at .

Extension office offers food handler course
The Pasco County Extension office is offering the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Food Managers Food Safety and Quality Program and ServSafe Certification Exam on Sept. 11 starting at 8:30 a.m. at the Central Pasco Professional Center in Land O’ Lakes. There will be a break for lunch and the exam from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. This is a comprehensive food handler course, which includes food safety concepts. Upon completion of the training, participants will receive a state Certificate of Achievement from the university. Upon passing the ServSafe manager’s examination, participants receive a national certification valid for five years. Class size is limited. Training, exam and textbook cost is $165. To register, call (888) 232-8723, or visit fycs.ifas.ufl.edu/foodsafety.

Saint Leo offers doctoral program
Saint Leo University’s Donald R. Tapia School of Business is accepting applications through Sept. 15 for its new doctor of business administration degree program. The coursework emphasizes applied knowledge and practice, and is designed to develop graduates for college-level teaching, academic leadership or consulting. The first class of students will be capped at 25 participants. For information, contact graduate admissions at (800) 707-8846, or .

Samuel Watkins earns business degree
Samuel Watkins of Lutz has graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in business. The University of Houston is a Carnegie-designated Tier One public research university recognized by The Princeton Review as one of the nation’s best colleges for undergraduate education.

Social work program gets accreditation
Saint Leo University announced its master of social work program has received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Social Work Education, just four years after the technologically innovative program was launched.
The accreditation assures workplaces, prospective students and the general public that the Saint Leo program meets the teaching and curricular standards established by the profession. Through the accredited program, master of social work graduates are eligible to take the examination to become licensed clinical social workers.

Lee on Dean’s List at Eckerd
Laura Lee of Lutz has been named to Eckerd College’s Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester. Lee is majoring in American studies. To qualify, students must complete at least four courses with a grade point average of 3.75 or higher. Eckerd College is at 4200 54th Ave. S., in St. Petersburg.

PHCC trustees elect new leadership
The Pasco-Hernando Community College District Board of Trustees elected a new chair and vice chair for the 2013-14 academic year. Trustee John L. DiRienzo was elected to serve as chair, succeeding Rao Musunuru, and Trustee Leonard H. Johnson was elected as vice chair.
DiRienzo, of Spring Hill, is an adjunct faculty member at Saint Leo University. He is a retired school principal with a master’s degree in special education and additional certification in educational leadership. DiRienzo is past president of the Board of Directors for Arc of Florida and Arc Nature Coast in Hernando County, and currently is an active volunteer for the organizations. DiRienzo has served on the college’s board since July 2009.
Johnson, a Dade City attorney, is a shareholder at Johnson Auvil & Pratico P.A., where he practices real estate law, business and banking law, construction law and estate planning.
Johnson received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, and his law degree from the University of Florida College of Law. He also sits on the board of directors of Gator Boosters Inc., and has served on the college’s board since November 2011.

Adults-only Spelling Bee
The Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties Inc. found out who was “Smarter than a Preschooler” during its first adults-only spelling bee on Aug. 1 at the Suncoast Dance Party Center, 13383 County Line Road in Spring Hill. Twelve teams of four spellers went head-to-head in the competition with three rounds of increasingly difficult words. The winning team of Kierczynski and Associates received the Ultimate Speller trophy by correctly spelling the word “ululation.” The trophy will be passed on to future spelling bee winners year after year.

Thomas, Janssen on Virginia Tech Dean List
Two local students enrolled at Virginia Tech were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester. Junior Christine Thomas and Senior Eliana Janssen are both from Lutz and majoring in agribusiness in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. To quality, students must attempt at least 12 credit hours and earn a 3.4 grade point average during the semester.

Museum offers free day to teachers
The Henry B. Plant Museum will offer free admission to teachers and their families on Aug. 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitors can explore the museum at their leisure, take a self-guided audio tour or participate in a walk-through at 1 p.m. There will be a screening of the historical video “Florida’s First Magic Kingdom.” The museum is at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., in Tampa. For information, visit plantmuseum.com.

Visit The Reading Corner
The Reading Corner, a new private school at 1800 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, will host an open house on Aug. 18 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Enrollment spots are open in various age groups in classes for children age 3 through fifth grade. For information on tuition, email , or call (813) 909-9204.

New principal for Wiregrass Ranch
Robyn White has been named principal at Wiregrass Ranch High School in Wesley Chapel. Robyn White began her career as a Pinellas County teacher in 1986 and has been the assistant principal at Wiregrass since 2006. She succeeds Ray Bonti, who was promoted to an administrative position at the district offices.

PHCC looking for singers
Pasco-Hernando Community College is looking for experienced singers to join the College/Community Chorus program. Rehearsals are on Tuesdays from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. beginning Aug. 20. The chorus meets in the Performing Arts Center building on the PHCC West Campus in New Port Richey. The chorus is offered through the college’s continuing education department. Tuition fee for the chorus is $29 for the fall semester and includes music. For information, email .

MOSI hosts home-school educators
MOSI is hosting a free day of fun and exploration in its exhibits and Kids in Charge area for local home-schoolers on Aug. 21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Proof of home schooling is required. Those attending can meet the MOSI home-school educators and discuss program options, view an educational IMAX film for $4.95, and visit the sea monster exhibit for $10. MOSI is at 4801 E. Fowler Ave. in Tampa. For information, call (813) 987-6000, or visit www.mosi.org.

Remington College gives haircuts
Throughout the month of August, Remington College Tampa Campus is offering a free haircut for children younger than 17. Instructors and students in the Remington College cosmetology program provide the haircuts. Adults who bring in a donation of school supplies can also get a free salon service. Choices include a haircut, manicure or pedicure. Remington College is at 6302 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Suite 400, Tampa. For information or an appointment, call (813) 316-4470, or visit remingtoncosmo.com.

Grant provides for scholarships
The Pasco-Hernando Community College Foundation recently received a $40,000 grant from the Edward K. Roberts Fund of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County.
The contribution provided scholarships to PHCC students in summer 2013 and will continue to provide scholarships to fall term PHCC students. Per the donor’s wishes, preference will be given to part-time students who may not qualify for other financial aid.
Roberts was a generous lifelong donor to PHCC. He relocated to Sarasota, and upon his death in 2009, established the fund. The PHCC Foundation was one of the organizations specified to be eligible for distributions from the Fund.
For more information about the PHCC Foundation, please call (727) 816-3410, or visit www.phcc.edu/foundation.

Thomas Rhoades makes Dean’s List
Thomas D. Rhoades of Lutz was among 332 students named to the Dean’s Recognized List at Benedictine University for the spring 2013 semester.
The list recognizes part-time students who achieve a 3.5 grade point average or higher.
Benedictine University is an independent Roman Catholic institution in Lisle, Ill.

Open house at Double Branch
Double Branch Elementary will have an open house Sept. 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. for kindergarteners to second graders, and from 7 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. for those in grades 3-5. The PTA will conduct a general assembly meeting in the cafeteria at 6:30 p.m. Spirit items will be available. The school is at 31500 Chancey Road in Wesley Chapel. For information, call (813) 346-0400.

American Board programs
According to the 2012 Florida Vital Signs report, only 22 percent of Florida eighth-graders have a math teacher who majored in the subject they teach. Only 43 percent of eighth-graders have a science teacher who majored in the subject they teach. This summer, the American Board, a teacher certification nonprofit, is aiming to alleviate this issue by helping career-changing professionals bring their experience and expertise to local classrooms. The board assists career-changers, subject area experts, recent college graduates and others with a bachelor’s degree to earn full teacher certification by offering programs online so candidates can work at their own pace. The board is hosting informational sessions in August for those interested. To learn more, visit http://www.abcte.org/drupal/teach/events.

Social work program gets accreditation
Saint Leo University announced its master of social work program has received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Social Work Education, just four years after the technologically innovative program was launched.
The accreditation assures workplaces, prospective students and the general public that the Saint Leo program meets the teaching and curricular standards established by the profession. Through the accredited program, master of social work graduates are eligible to take the examination to become licensed clinical social workers.

Lee on Dean’s List at Eckerd
Laura Lee of Lutz has been named to Eckerd College’s Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester. Lee is majoring in American Studies. To qualify, students must complete at least four courses with a grade point average of 3.75 or higher. Eckerd College is at 4200 54th Ave. S. in St. Petersburg.

Double Branch roundup
Double Branch Elementary will host its Kindergarten Rancher Roundup from 9 a.m. to noon on Aug. 1. Children must be registered at Double Branch for the 2013-14 school year to attend the roundup. Registration is $40 and a student T-shirt is provided. Double Branch is at 31500 Chancey Road in Wesley Chapel. For information, call assistant principal Scott Atkins at (813) 346-0400.

Stuff the Bus event
Walmart and Publix are hosting “Stuff the Bus for Teachers” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 2-4 at area stores in Lutz, New Port Richey, Hudson and Zephyrhills. Shoppers can stop by and pick up a shopping list at any of the 13 locations, buy what they can and stuff it in the bus. You can also volunteer for bus duty to help with supplies and hand out shopping lists. To sign up as a volunteer, visit www.tinyurl.com/StufftheBus2013 or call (727) 845-3030. For locations and information on the event, visit www.unitedwaypasco.org.

Back to School Fair
The Glazer Children’s Museum is hosting a Back to School Fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 10. The first 150 kids will receive a bag filled with back-to-school goodies. There will be live entertainment, informative speaker sessions, games, arts and crafts, face painting, balloon artist, kid and mom workshops, and more. Fair guests can also enjoy the museum for $5 per person. The museum is at 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza in Tampa. For information, call (813) 949-4400.

Plant City High reunion
Plant City High Class of 1978 is hosting a reunion from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 9 at Keel & Curley Winery, 5210 Thonotosassa Road in Plant City. There also will be a social hour, dinner and sharing old memories from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Aug. 10 at Embassy Suites Brandon, 10220 Palm River Road in Tampa. There is still time to register by emailing or go to the class Facebook page at Plant City Class of 1978.

Elementary orientation at Oakstead
Oakstead Elementary will host Elementary Orientation Day, also known as Meet the Teacher Day, on Aug. 14. Parents can bring their children to school between 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to meet the teachers, pay supply fees, get bus and car loop information, pay for lunch, join the PTA, and purchase school spirit shirts. Paperwork needed includes original birth certificate and social security card, proof of residency, current immunization records, physical record, and custody papers, if applicable. Oakstead is at 19925 Lake Patience Road in Land O’ Lakes. For information, call (813) 346-1500.

Thomas Rhoades makes Dean’s List
Thomas D. Rhoades, of Lutz, was among 332 students named to the Dean’s Recognized List at Benedictine University for the Spring 2013 semester.

The list recognizes part-time students who achieve a 3.5 grade point average or higher.

Benedictine University is an independent Roman Catholic institution in Lisle, Ill.

American Board programs
According to the 2012 Florida Vital Signs report, only 22 percent of Florida eighth graders have a math teacher who majored in the subject they teach. Only 43 percent of eighth graders have a science teacher who majored in the subject they teach. This summer, the American Board, a teacher certification nonprofit, is aiming to alleviate this issue by helping career-changing professionals bring their experience and expertise to local classrooms. The board assists career-changers, subject area experts, recent college graduates and others with a bachelor’s degree to earn full teacher certification by offering programs online so candidates can work at their own pace. The board is hosting informational sessions in August for those interested. To learn more, visit http://www.abcte.org/drupal/teach/events.

Social work program gets accreditation
Saint Leo University announced its Master of Social Work program has received accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of the Council on Social Work Education, just four years after the technologically innovative program was launched.

The accreditation assures workplaces, prospective students and the general public that the Saint Leo program meets the teaching and curricular standards established by the profession. Through the accredited program, Master of Social Work graduates are eligible to take the examination to become Licensed Clinical Social Workers.

Burdzinski appointed to national council
Ken Burdzinski, vice president of administration and finance at Pasco-Hernando Community College, was appointed to the National Association of College and University Business Officers Community Colleges Council. His term runs from Aug. 1 through July 31, 2014, and is renewable up to three years. The council serves as an advisory body to the council’s president and staff by providing suggestions, feedback and support for the association’s goals and activities as they pertain to the constituency.

Burdzinski has worked at PHCC for 16 years in the administration and finance division. He has a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University and a master’s degree from Baldwin-Wallace College.

Teacher appreciation contest
Ice Cold Air Discount Auto Repair, with locations in Zephyrhills and New Port Richey, is having its second annual Facebook “Cool For School” Teacher Appreciation Essay Contest. The grand prize teacher receives a $200 office supply gift card, $100 Visa gift card and an Ice Cold Air club card worth $762. The person who nominates the winner receives a $50 Visa gift card and $30 in Ice Cold Air bucks.

Facebook users can submit a short essay, poem or thank you letter sharing how a public school teacher has influenced their lives and the lives of others. Deadline for submissions is Aug. 9. The winner will be announce Aug. 15. Visit www.facebook.com/icecoldairdiscountautorepair and click on the contests tab to enter or vote.

Steinbrenner High fundraiser
The fifth annual Steinbrenner High Volleyball Golf Tournament and Silent Auction Fundraiser will start at 8 a.m. Aug. 17 at Heritage Harbor in Lutz. All proceeds will go toward the volleyball program’s expenses, to purchase equipment and to bring attention to local businesses and individuals that participate. For information, contact Deb McLean at or (813) 294-3322.

PHCC trustees elect new leadership
The Pasco-Hernando Community College District Board of Trustees elected a new chair and vice chair for the 2013-14 academic year. Trustee John L. DiRienzo was elected to serve as chair, succeeding Rao Musunuru, and Trustee Leonard H. Johnson was elected as vice chair.

DiRienzo, of Spring Hill, is an adjunct faculty member at Saint Leo University. He is a retired school principal with a master’s degree in special education and additional certification in educational leadership. DiRienzo is past president of the Board of Directors for Arc of Florida and Arc Nature Coast in Hernando County and currently is an active volunteer for the organizations. DiRienzo has served on the college’s board since July 2009.

Johnson, a Dade City attorney, is a shareholder at Johnson, Auvil & Pratico, P.A., where he practices real estate law, business and banking law, construction law and estate planning.

Johnson received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, and his law degree from the University Of Florida College Of Law. He also sits on the Board of Directors of Gator Boosters Inc., and has served on the college’s board since November 2011.

Lunch and breakfast program
Hillsborough County Department of Family and Aging Services will sponsor the National School Lunch Program for the upcoming school year. Eligible children will receive meals at no cost. As part of the free and reduced meal policy, an official with Family and Aging Services will review applications and determine eligibility. For an application or information, call the Administration Office at Dorothy Thomas School at (813) 975-7355.