The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Tampa Bay Sun FC secures first home win

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Tampa Bay Sun FC were fourth in the USL Super League standings with 3 wins, 3 losses and four ties through Nov. 11. Photos courtesy of Tampa Bay Sun FC

 

TAMPA, FL. – The Tampa Bay Sun FC secured a 3-1 victory over Lexington in front of thousands of fans for the first home match back at Riverfront Stadium since Sept. 14.

It was a back-and-forth, with both teams creating numerous scoring opportunities. Lexington struck first in the 67th minute when Sydney Shepherd capitalized on a corner kick. 

However, the Sun FC responded quickly, with Cecilie Fløe equalizing just minutes later.

Fløe continued her scoring spree in the 52nd minute, giving the Sun FC a 2-1 lead. 

The team sealed the victory in the 92nd minute when Natasha Flint scored a goal from outside the box to encapsulate her first goal of the season; and to cement the first home win of the 2024-25 season.

“One of the things that we talked about before the game was to play for something bigger than ourselves,” head coach Denise Shilte-Brown said. “For the future of professional women’s soccer in Tampa Bay, and the importance of success. The women took that charge seriously”

 

Upcoming games

The Tampa Bay Sun FC plays at Dallas Trinity FC on Dec. 8 and at home against Spokane Zephyr FC on Dec. 14. Buy tickets at tampabaysunfc.com.

 

Chalk Talk (11/20/24): PHSC leaders speak at national conference

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Lee Maggard, Krista Knowles, Jesse Pisors, Nicole Newlon and John Allocco Jr. attend one of the largest professional development opportunities for community college leadership last month in Seattle, Washington. Photo courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College

PHSC leaders speak at national conference

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College leaders attended the 2024 Association of Community College Trustees Leadership Conference from Oct. 23 to 26 in Seattle, Washington. 

The conference welcomed nearly 2,000 leaders from community colleges, government agencies, philanthropic entities and other organizations.

PHSC President Jesse Pisors was joined by PHSC District Board of Trustees members Lee Maggard, Nicole Newlon and John Allocco Jr., along with student representative Krista Knowles, to attend and speak at the conference. Pisors, Maggard and Newlon spoke at the conference during a breakout session. Their presentation focused on the process of searching, selecting and onboarding a new college president, a familiar topic for PHSC with the onboarding of Pisors as PHSC’s fifth president in February 2024.  

“This was a great opportunity to represent PHSC at this major national conference and to present on a topic that is important to college trustees from across the country,” said Pisors.

 

College opens $4.9M fire training facility

DADE CITY – Pasco-Hernando State College opened a five-story fire training tower Nov. 18 at its East Campus.

The facility includes burn prop stations for training, two classrooms, pre-engineered covered parking and two 40-foot storage containers for training equipment all spanning over a four-acre site. The $4.9 million project is set to not only be a resource for students in training, but also for local and state fire departments.

“PHSC strives to stay on the cutting edge, in terms of the preparation we provide our students,” PHSC President Jesse Pisors said. “This fire training tower means that the students who go through our fire science program will emerge better prepared for the realities they will face in their work. In addition to serving our students, this facility will allow us to provide ongoing training for professionals from across the state.”
The tower was developed and constructed by Skanska. The tower measures 4,280 square feet and 50 feet in height.

 

Principal appointed to Skybrooke K8 School

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools has appointed Michele Boylan as principal of Skybrooke K-8, which will open in August 2025 in Lutz.

Boylan has worked the past four years as principal at Bexley Elementary school in Land O’ Lakes. Prior to that, she was an assistant principal at Chasco Elementary School in Port Richey.

“Between both schools, she has learned so much about growing teachers, connecting with students and bringing in parents in the community as partners,” said Cortney Gantt, assistant superintendent for elementary schools. 

Boylan started working in Pasco County as a dropout prevention teacher in 1997 at Hudson Elementary School. 

 

School hosts Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

DADE CITY – Pasco County Schools welcomed the community to a Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration on Nov. 9 at Rodney B. Cox Elementary School. 

The event, initially postponed due to recent hurricanes, celebrated Hispanic and Latino heritage with food, vendors and activities. It was a partnership with Premier Community Healthcare and the Hernando Hispanic Heritage Network.

Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated nationally from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, acknowledges the contributions and cultural impact of Hispanic and Latino communities. 

In August, Pasco County Schools honored this observance with a proclamation from the school board, followed by a countywide resolution from the Pasco County commissioners in September.

 

Jingle Bell Dash coming to Catholic school

SPRING HILL – Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School will use proceeds from its Jingle Bell Dash 5K Run Walk to support its athletic running program.

Participants will run or walk through the campus, 13651 Hays Road. The event starts at 9 a.m. Dec. 14. Shirts go to the first 200 registered participants (excluding ages 0-9). 

Registration costs $30 for adults, $15 for ages 10-17 and free for 0-9.

Email for details. 

 

Hillsborough Education Foundation expands SCOPE Initiative

TAMPA – The Hillsborough Education Foundation announced the expansion of the Student Center of Postsecondary Exploration to Spoto High School.

This will mark the third SCOPE site in Hillsborough County Public Schools.

Foundation President and CEO Anna Corman envisions ongoing expansion for the college and career readiness initiative, with a goal of establishing six fully operational SCOPE centers by 2026. 

“SCOPE has proven to be a valuable resource for students navigating the complex journey toward college and career readiness,” Corman said. “Our students at King and Brandon high schools have shown tremendous growth and engagement through SCOPE, and we are excited to bring these resources to Spoto High School.”

Thanks to funding from The Mosaic Company and Tampa Electric Company, Spoto High School students will now have access to personalized support to prepare for their postsecondary journeys. 

The SCOPE program offers resources such as one-on-one college and career planning, assistance with admissions and financial aid applications, and guidance on technical college and trade school pathways.

 

Pasco County Schools promotes staff

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools approved multiple promotions during the Nov. 5 school board meeting. 

Promotions included: 

  • Janice Cook, an intervention specialist, was promoted to assistant principal at Fox Hollow Elementary School. 
  • Jaclyn Adamson went from a teacher literacy role to a voluntary prekindergarten coordinator for Early Childhood Programs.
  • Lisa Cavalieri has been promoted from a professional standard investigator to a supervisor in the employee relations department. 

 

Business Digest (11/20/24): Prominent lawyer chairs Tampa Bay EDC 

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Christaldi Ronald

Prominent lawyer chairs Tampa Bay EDC 

TAMPA – Ronald Christaldi, a partner with Shumaker, has been appointed as the chairman of the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council Board of Directors.

Christaldi has been a key member of the EDC, serving in several leadership roles. 

As chairman, he will lead the EDC’s efforts to strengthen the Tampa Bay area as a premier location for business expansion, talent recruitment and economic investment. 

“With Tampa Bay ranked 35th on the U.S. News & World Report’s ‘Best Places’ list and eighth among metros for economic growth, it’s clear that our community is thriving and on the rise,” he said. “I look forward to working with our partners to continue building on this momentum, fostering growth, and making Tampa Bay an even better place to live, work, and invest.”

 

Cronin joins governor in Italy

TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis led an international trade and business development mission to Italy from Nov. 11 to 15.

The delegation consisted of 85 representatives from various Florida industries, including higher education, transportation and logistics, aerospace and aviation, military and defense, hospitals, life sciences, and manufacturing. Among them was Bill Cronin, president and CEO of Pasco Economic Development Council.

The trade mission aimed to create numerous economic growth opportunities for the state, as Italy is among Florida’s top 20 trade partners internationally, accounting for $4.4 billion in annual bilateral trade. The delegation scheduled visits to Rome, Viareggio, Florence, Turin and Milan.

“Italy and Florida share a special relationship as peninsular entities with many shared industries, and I was grateful that Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni invited our Florida delegation to visit,” DeSantis said. “This mission will strengthen ties between our state and their nation and bring new and increased opportunities and investments to Florida.”

This initiative is coordinated by SelectFlorida in collaboration with FloridaCommerce.

 

Greater Pasco Chamber happenings

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will hold a pair of networking events in the next week. 

They are as follows: 

  • The Professional Women in Business group celebrates Friendsgiving during its monthly networking event from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 20 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Tampa. Registration costs $12 for members and $15 for others. 
  • Business professionals network during Trinity Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 21 at Seven Springs Golf & Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., Trinity. Registration for lunch costs $13. The program is free for members and costs $10 for others. 

Visit greaterpasco.com for details about the chamber and events. 

 

North Tampa Bay Chamber happenings

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a coffee social to end the month.

The event takes place from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Nov. 20 at Bella Brava Bexley, 16722 Focus Loop.

Visit northtampabaychamber.com for details about the chamber and events. 

 

Companies support advocacy center

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco First Children’s Advocacy Center held its third annual Paint the Night Blue event Nov. 8 at St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church.

The black-tie event served as a fundraiser for the center, which provides child abuse prevention, intervention and treatment services. 

Several area companies sponsored the event including The Lyons Law Group, On the Move Wedding & Event Rentals, BayCare | Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, Elle Rudisill Law Firm, Shady Hills Power Company, Sunshine Signing, Go Sass and Advent Health. 

 

Quick Hits

  • Ergle Christmas Tree Farm opened its 38th season of providing the community with fresh trees on Nov. 16. The farm operates daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 3331 Treiman Blvd., Dade City
  • Vintage Chix in Zephyrhills got into the Christmas spirit by adding lace to its window shelves. The gift shop, located at 38501 5th Ave., specializes in home decor.
  • Prelude Academy of the Arts celebrated its third anniversary this week. The company provides music lessons at 14249 7th St., Dade City.
  • The Groves Golf and Country Club has launched a Ladies Day promotion Thursdays through May 1, 2025. The course is located at 7924 Melogold Circle, Land O’ Lakes.

AdventHealth opens Northdale ER 

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The AdventHealth Northdale ER team is ready to serve the community. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
AdventHealth leaders, health care professionals and community partners gathered to celebrate the facility’s opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 6. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

TAMPA – AdventHealth Northdale ER celebrated its first full day of providing emergency care Nov. 13 to patients in one of the fastest-growing areas in Hillsborough County. 

The 13,379-square-foot emergency department at 16446 North Dale Mabry Highway features 12 private exam rooms, a resuscitation room, two triage rooms and dedicated spaces for bariatric patients. 

The $23 million facility is equipped with advanced imaging technology and a full-service lab.

“North Dale Mabry is an ideal location for our new AdventHealth Northdale ER, allowing us to expand access to high-quality, compassionate care for this growing community,” said Bruce Bergherm, president and CEO of AdventHealth Tampa. “With this new ER close by, we’re reducing travel times and enhancing access to AdventHealth’s whole-person approach to emergency care, so families have faster, more convenient support when they need it most.”

The facility is designed to meet the community’s growing health care needs, including specialized support spaces and an EMS lounge to improve response times and efficiency. AdventHealth Northdale ER joins the AdventHealth West Florida Division’s network of 14 hospitals and eight offsite emergency rooms.

Since 2019, AdventHealth has invested more than $790 million in Hillsborough County.

On the web: AdventHealthNorthdaleER.com

Construction underway for AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER

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AdventHealth and Robins & Morton leaders sign the beam for AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER. (Photo courtesy of AdventHealth)
Wilbur, AdventHealth’s chief barking officer, “signs” the beam for the new AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER. (Photo \courtesy of AdventHealth)

WESLEY CHAPEL – Community leaders signed a beam Nov. 8 to mark the progress of the AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER, a new off-site emergency department in East Pasco County.

The more than 13,000-square-foot emergency department will include 12 patient beds and two triage rooms when completed in the first half of 2025. It will also offer imaging and lab services.  

“The Meadow Pointe ER is located in a rapidly growing part of Pasco County and AdventHealth wants to make sure we’re meeting the needs of our community there,” said Mike Murrill, president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Connerton. “We are committed to expanding our footprint of emergency care services and making it easy for our neighbors to access AdventHealth’s robust network of care.”  

The signed beam was placed over what will become the main entrance of the ER. The names of those who helped make the $26 million project a reality will welcome future patients through the door.

The opening of the new emergency department will create more than 30 jobs in Pasco County.

“Reaching this milestone in such a short period of time is a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence, teamwork and innovation,” said Todd Watson, manager of Robins & Morton Florida Division. “We are proud to be working on a project that will enhance health care access and deliver vital services to our community.”

The AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER joins the organization’s nine other freestanding emergency departments across the Tampa Bay area. 

This also includes an EMS fleet with 21 ambulances and AdventHealth AirStar 1, a medical helicopter dedicated to critical patient transport across the Tampa Bay region.    

What’s Happening (11/20/24): #IMOMSOHARD coming to Tampa Theatre 

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#IMOMSOHARD coming to Tampa Theatre 

TAMPA – Jen and Kristin – the creators of #IMOMSOHARD – dive into all things womanhood, motherhood and friendship during an upcoming stop on The Flashback Tour.

This show is rowdy, raucous and a little bit naughty asd they talk about surviving marriage, fashion and the tween-teen years. The show is intended for ages 18 and older.

Get a group of your lady friends, or fly solo, you can even bring your husband (make sure he sits in the front row) and get ready to laugh.

The show starts at 8 p.m. March 28 at Tampa Theatre. 

Tickets range from $49.50 to $69.50 plus applicable taxes and fees. Get them at the Franklin Street Box Office and online at www.tampatheatre.org. 

A limited number of VIP add-on tickets will also be available in advance for an additional $85 plus applicable taxes and fees, which include a meet and greet with Kristin and Jen.

 

Nov. 20

Holiday Stroll Buy

The Friends of the Starkey Ranch TLC present a book and craft sale in the lobby of the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. The sale continues through Dec. 22. pascolibraries.org

10 a.m.-8 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack leads a mat yoga class for adults at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. pascolibraries.org

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Charity Fundraiser

The Murray Family Foundation hosts a Music for a Cause benefit concert with Roger and Todd at Stonewater Grill. The event includes a live auction. https://themurrayfamilyfoundation.org/

6-9 p.m.; 4422 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Night Market

SaucyQueen presents Lutz Night Market with local artisans, live music by Gary Coco and drink specials at Forty Thieves. 

6-9 p.m.; 2741 E. County Line Road, Lutz

 

Trivia Night

Timeless Entertainment holds a Trivia Night at McAnderson’s House of Brews. Play for prizes. 

7-9 p.m.; 17683 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Lutz

 

Nov. 21

Garden Club

The Zephyrhills Garden Gate Garden Club meets at the First Presbyterian Church. The topic is “Cooking with Herbs.” Light refreshments will be served. Call 813-310-9165 for details.

9:15 a.m.; 5510 19th St., Zephyrhills

 

Storytime Fun

Toddlers and preschoolers listen to songs and stories during Storytime Fun at Zephyrhills Public Library. pascolibraries.org

10-10:20 or 10:30-10:50 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Preschool Storytime

Youth listen to stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. pascolibraries.org

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Preschool Storytime

Children, ages 3-5, listen to stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Land O’Lakes Library. pascolibraries.org

10:15-10:45 or 11:15 to 11:45 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Book Club

The Land O Lakes Book Club discusses “The Phone Booth at the Edge of the World” by Laura Imai Messina at Land O’Lakes Library. The club is for adults. pascolibraries.org

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Mom & Baby

The Mom & Baby Support Group provides insight and resources involving breastfeeding at the Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-345-3307 for details. pascolibraries.org

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack leads a mat yoga class for adults at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. pascolibraries.org

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Dungeons & Dragons

Teens play Dungeons & Dragons at the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Call 727-815-7126 to register in advance. pascolibraries.org

4-6 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Trivia Night

East Pasco Entertainment presents a Trivia Night at Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Wilderness Lakes. Play for prizes. 

7-9 p.m.; 7040 Land O Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Nov. 22

Art Workshop

Pamela Varricchio conducts a workshop with the theme,  “Beginner Oil (Water Soluble) Painting,” at West Pasco Art Guild. Members pay $40. Others pay $50. Register in advance at or visit westpascoartguild.org. 

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; 6206 Jefferson St., New Port Richey

 

Thrifty Crafters

Adults create crafts during Thrifty Crafters at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 to register. pascolibraries.org

9:30-10:30 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Toddler Storytime

Children, ages 1-2, listen to stories during Toddler Storytime at Land O’Lakes Library. pascolibraries.org

9:45-10:10, 10:15-10:45 or 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Ukulele Jam

The Tampa Bay Ukulele Society jams at Hugh Embry Library. Intermediate to advanced players are invited. Call 352-567-3576 for details. pascolibraries.org

1-2:30 p.m.; 14215 4th St., Dade City

 

Book Club

The Spill the Tea Book Club discusses “Cloud Atlas” by David Mitchell at Zephyrhills Public Library. pascolibraries.org

3-4 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Moonlight Market

Florida Penguin Productions presents Friday Night Moonlight Market at The Hub at Bexley. The event includes live music and vendors. floridapenguinproductions.com

5-9 p.m.; 6751 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Theater Production

Live Oak Theatre presents its latest production, “Beauty at the Beast,” at the Carol and Frank Morsani Center for the Arts. Future performances are held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday on Nov. 22-24. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $10 for children and free for 13 and under with the purchase of an adult seat. Buy them at  ​​liveoaktheatre.org/current-production.

7:30 p.m.; 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville

 

Live Music

60 West performs live music at Ukulele Brands. ukulelebrands.com

7:30-10:30 p.m.; 4805 Land O Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Live Music

The Danny Bub Combo performs at Rock & Brews – Wesley Chapel. dbcband.com

8-11 p.m.; 26000 State Road 56, Lutz

 

Nov. 23

Vendor Fair

Southern Eaze Bar & Grill invites families to a Holiday Vendor Fair with crafts, food vendors, raffle and Santa. Bring a gift for a child or teenager to donate to Joshua House. 

9 a.m.-2 p.m.; 18430 Livingston Ave., Lutz

 

Thankful for Dessert

Children make Thanksgiving-themed desserts using premade food items during Thankful for Dessert at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 to register. pascolibraries.org

10-11 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Fall Tea

Friends of the Library sponsors a Flavors of Fall Tea & Brunch for people ages 16 and older. Register in advance at pascolibraries.org.

10-11:30 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Friendsgiving Food

Students in grades K-5 share food and engage in crafts during Friendsgiving Food and Fun at Hugh Embry Branch Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details. pascolibraries.org

2-4 p.m.;  14215 4th St., Dade City

 

Comedy Show

Max Amini performs stand-up comedy at Tampa Theatre. Amini burst into comedy in Los Angeles in 2002. This show, which features mature themes and adult language, is intended for ages 13 and older. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets range from $45 to $110 plus taxes and fees (VIP tickets for front four rows cost $125). Buy them at tampatheatre.org.

7 p.m.; 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa

 

Live Music

Jimmy Griswold performs live music at Ukulele Brands. ukulelebrands.com

7:30-10:30 p.m.; 4805 Land O Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Nov. 24

Live Music

Tre Dicci performs live music at Ukulele Brands. ukulelebrands.com

4:30-7:30 p.m.; 4805 Land O Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Nov. 25

Ukulele Social Hour

Tampa Bay Ukulele hosts an informal gathering for players with basic skills at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details. pascolibraries.org

10:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 14215 4th St., Dade City

 

Baby Storytime

Babies up to 1 year old listen to stories in parents laps during Baby Bookworm Story Time at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. pascolibraries.org

10:15-11 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Chair Yoga

Dianne Orcher leads a chair yoga class for adults at Land O’Lakes Library. Register in advance. Call 813-929-1214 for details. pascolibraries.org

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Friendsgiving Food

Teens in grades 9-12 create and eat a Thanksgiving dish during Friendsgiving Food and Fun at Hugh Embry Branch Library. Teens must sign a waiver. Call 352-567-3576 for details. pascolibraries.org

3-4 p.m.; 14215 4th St., Dade City

 

Nov 26

Medicare/Medicaid

Adults can get help applying to Medicare/Medicaid and food stamps at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call José Rodríguez at 813-420-3013 for details. pascolibraries.org

9 a.m.-noon; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Book Sale

The Friends of the Library holds a weekly book sale on the patio of Land O’Lakes Branch Library. pascolibraries.org

10 a.m.-noon; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Toddler Storytime

Toddlers, ages 1-3, listen to stories and songs during Little Bookworm Story Time at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. pascolibraries.org

10:15-11 a.m. or 11:15 a.m.-noon; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Tai Chi

Adults learn basic tai chi moves during a class at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 to register. pascolibraries.org

11 a.m.-noon; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Tween/Teen Gaming

Youth, ages 9 and older, play board and video games during Tween/Teen Gaming at Zephyrhills Public Library. Snacks will be provided.  pascolibraries.org

3-4 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Trivia Night 

East Pasco Entertainment presents a Trivia Night at Black Sheep American Pub. 

7-9 p.m.; 18450 U.S. 41, Lutz

 

Live Music

Ukulele Brands hosts an open mic night at the bar and grill. ukulelebrands.com

7-10 p.m.; 4805 Land O Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Nov. 27

Toddler Storytime

Children, ages 0-2, listen to stories and songs during Toddler Storytime at Hugh Embry Branch Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details. pascolibraries.org

10:15-11 a.m.; 14215 4th St., Dade City

 

Baby Storytime

Babies up to 1 year old listen to stories in parents laps during Baby Storytime at Land O’Lakes Branch Library. pascolibraries.org

10:15-10:45 or 11-11:45 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Preschool Storytime

Children, ages 3-5, listen to stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Hugh Embry Branch Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details. pascolibraries.org

11:15 a.m.-noon; 14215 4th St., Dade City

 

Chair Yoga

A yoga instructor leads a chair yoga class at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 to register. pascolibraries.org

10:30-11:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack leads a mat yoga class for adults at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. pascolibraries.org

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Nov. 30

Indoor holiday fair

A Lutz Indoor Holiday Craft Fair includes unique handmade crafts made by local artisans. Visit the Facebook page for details. 

9 a.m.-1 p.m.;  2155 Northpointe Pkwy., Lutz

 

Dec. 6

Preschool Praise and Play

Dade City First United Methodist Church opens its sanctuary every first Friday of the month for a free community preschool playtime. The church offers a scripture story, music, craft and playtime with new friends. Activities are geared toward toddlers and preschoolers but all ages are welcome. Contact for questions.

9:30-10:30 a.m. 37628 Church Ave, Dade City

 

Dec. 7

Holiday Arts & Crafts

Koren’s Quarters Arts & Crafts Show  includes vendors, food trucks, holiday shops, Christmas music and pony rides. Admission and parking are free. Vendor spots cost $50. Visit Koren’s Quarters Show Facility on Facebook for details. 

9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 1120 Swilley Road, Plant City

 

Arts & Crafts

Lutz-Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club presents its 45th annual Arts & Crafts Show at Keystone Prep Academy. The show features over 175 vendors and food booths with artwork, handcrafts, jewelry, festive holiday and artisanal items plus lots for children.  

10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 18105 Gunn Hwy., Odessa

Dec. 8

Arts & Crafts

Lutz-Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club presents its 45th annual Arts & Crafts Show at Keystone Prep Academy. The show features over 175 vendors and food booths with artwork, handcrafts, jewelry, festive holiday and artisanal items plus lots for children.  

10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 18105 Gunn Hwy., Odessa

Christmas in the Park

The San Antonio Founders Garden Club hosts its annual Christmas in the Park celebration with community Christmas cards, caroling, Christmas treats and raffles at San Antonio Park. All are welcome to this long standing community tradition.

7 p.m.; 32625 State Road 52, San Antonio

Dec. 21-23

Talk to Santa

The East Pasco Amateur Radio Society lets children talk to Santa via ham radio during the Church Street Christmas Walk in Dade City. The free event is open to the public. Kids will receive a card from Santa and a candy cane after they make contact with the North Pole.  Call Chris at 224-221-5064 or visit eparsonline.org for details. 

7-9 p.m.; 37744 Church Ave., Dade City 

 

Jan 25, 2025

Ham Radio

The East Pasco Amateur Radio Society hosts its Winter Field Day event at the San Antonio Train Depot Museum. Local amateur radio operators will be on the air for 24 hours straight. This is a practice for emergency radio communications. The free event is open to the public. Call Chris at 224-221-5064 or visit eparsonline.org for details. 

Noon; 32627 Railroad Ave., San Antonio

 

Jan. 31, 2025

Comedy Show

Comedian Becky Robinson brings her Members Only Club Tour to the Tampa Theatre. You may know her as the Entitled Housewife, the outspoken viral golf character Becky, or from her time as a regular on MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out with Nick Cannon.” Tickets cost $39.50-$59.50 plus taxes and fees. Buy them at tampatheatre.org.

8 p.m.; 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa

 

Adopt A Pet (11/20/24): Wilma could light up your heart

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Wilma is a lovable, pint-sized package of joy who’s ready to find her forever home! At 4 years old, she’s the perfect blend of energy and affection. With her adorable short legs and stunning silver coat, she’s sure to capture your heart. Wilma absolutely thrives in playgroups at the shelter, where she’s known for being the life of the party and always loving to be the center of attention. Whether she’s playing with her dog friends or getting some cuddles from the humans around her, she’s always up for some fun. In fact, Wilma has become quite the star! She’s even been featured on the news, proudly representing the shelter and showing off her sweet personality. She’s a natural in front of the camera, and we’re sure she’ll make just as big an impression in her new home! Wilma is looking for a loving family who will adore her fun-loving nature and give her the attention she deserves. If you’re looking for a companion who’s sure to bring joy, laughter and lots of love into your life, visit Wilma at Pasco County Animal Services today!

If you would like to adopt Wilma, be sure to make an appointment at Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes, by calling 813-929-1212. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. Email for more information.

Pasco County Fire Rescue gets new fire chief

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Ryan Guynn was promoted to fire chief of Pasco County Fire Rescue. He started his career with the Dade City Fire Rescue in 1999. Photo courtesy of Pasco County

PASCO COUNTY – Ryan Guynn officially took over command of Pasco County Fire Rescue following a confirmation ceremony at the Nov. 12 county commissioners meeting.

Guynn brings more than 25 years of experience in public safety to the role. He most recently served as the assistant chief and interim fire chief of Pasco County Fire Rescue. 

Guynn said he is honored to continue serving the community and lead Pasco County Fire Rescue.

“Chief Guynn’s step up from assistant chief highlights our commitment to cultivating talent from within,” County Administrator Mike Carballa said.  “His dedication to the community, combined with his leadership experience, make him an outstanding fit to guide Pasco County Fire Rescue forward. His vision for a strong foundation and team unity aligns with our mission to prioritize people, purpose and performance.”

Chief Guynn began his career at Pasco County Fire Rescue in 2003. He has risen through the ranks from firefighter, driver engineer, captain, division chief, deputy chief and assistant chief.

“Over the past two years, I’ve personally watched Chief Guynn grow professionally in his role as the assistant fire chief,” Assistant County Administrator J.J. Murphy said.  “I have zero doubts that Chief Guynn is ready to take the helm of the agency and move Pasco County Fire Rescue into its next chapter.”

 

Local Wildlife (11/13/24): Catbird loves to sing

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David Maynard captured this Gray Catbird in his backyard in San Antonio. The bird likes to hide in the thickets along the fenceline but sometimes Maynard can hear him mew in the bushes. 

David Maynard captured this Gray Catbird in his backyard in San Antonio. The bird likes to hide in the thickets along the fenceline but sometimes Maynard can hear him mew in the bushes.

Adopt A Pet (11/13/24): Vera appreciates a soothing environment

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Vera is a charming little lady who takes her time to warm up to new environments, but once she feels at home, she’s a total sweetheart. She loves to snuggle with her stuffed animals, turning them into her cozy companions. As holiday season approaches, Vera dreams of finding a loving home where she can relax and blossom. She thrives in a calm environment where she can slowly explore and feel secure. With a bit of patience and understanding, you’ll discover her playful side and enjoy heartwarming moments together. If you’re looking for a gentle companion who appreciates the quieter joys of life, Vera is the perfect match. She’s ready to fill your home with love and warmth – just in time for the holidays! If you think Vera is the one for you, see her at Pasco County Animal Services today.

If you would like to adopt Vera, be sure to make an appointment at Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes, by calling 813-929-1212. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. Email for more information.