The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

VantagePoint AI investing over $4.6M in expansion 

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The Pasco Board of County Commissioners approved economic incentives to ensure VantagePoint AI expands its operations in Wesley Chapel. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

WESLEY CHAPEL – VantagePoint AI, LLC is expanding its footprint in Pasco County.

The trading software company specializes in artificial intelligence-driven financial market forecasting. 

VantagePoint is investing over $4.6 million in land acquisition, building renovations and equipment/technology infrastructure. It will begin renovations on its new location in Wesley Chapel in January 2026. 

Over the next three years, the company will hire 60 new full-time positions, more than doubling its current team of 51 employees.

“We’re thrilled to see VantagePoint AI continue to grow and invest right here in Pasco County,” said Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council. “Their expansion not only reinforces our region’s reputation as a hub for innovation and technology, but it also highlights how Pasco County companies are at the forefront of artificial intelligence. VantagePoint’s continued commitment to our community will bring high-quality jobs, cutting-edge technology advancements, and lasting economic impact to the area.”

The company was founded in 1979 by Louis B. Mendelsohn, a technical analyst and trading software pioneer, and has been headquartered in Wesley Chapel since 1987. 

VantagePoint was the first company to make commercially available AI-based trading software accessible to retail investors. It now serves over 160 countries globally.

The company is committed to giving back to the community by making quarterly charitable contributions to local nonprofits as part of its culture of accountability and community investment.

“After 38 years in this community, we’re more invested than ever in Pasco County’s future and ours is intertwined with it,” said Lane Mendelsohn, president of VantagePoint AI. “VantagePoint AI is experiencing growth, and we’re committed to ensuring that growth benefits Pasco County. With support from the Pasco EDC, we’re expanding our facilities and creating new opportunities for local talent.”

On Nov. 12, the Pasco Board of County Commissioners approved an economic incentive agreement which includes a job creation incentive for up to $240,000 for 60 new to Pasco County full-time jobs with salaries equal to or greater than 150% of the 2025 Pasco County average annual wage. 

The agreement includes a high impact job creation bonus not to exceed $61,047 over a 10-year period and discretionary training funds up to $30,000, which help to reimburse employers for training and upskilling their employees.

“Pasco County is proud to provide these types of economic incentives that support job creation and grow our property tax base,” Commissioner Seth Weightman said. “This agreement will help VantagePoint AI expand its economic footprint in Pasco through capital investment, high-paying, full-time jobs and a significant return on investment. I’m happy to support a local, family-owned business that’s such a great example of entrepreneurial heritage here in our business community.”

Duffels of Dignity celebrates 3 years of service 

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Organizations like The Sewing Group at Arise Church have helped Hillsborough County’s Duffels of Dignity program ensure children in foster care are treated with dignity. Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County

TAMPA – Hillsborough County’s Duffels of Dignity program is marking three years of providing hope, comfort and dignity to local children in the foster care system.

Launched in October 2022, Duffels of Dignity began as a simple idea: to replace the trash bags that many children in foster care use to carry their belongings with duffel bags filled with essential hygiene items and personal care products. Since then, the program has distributed thousands of duffel bags across Hillsborough County.

Since launching, Duffels of Dignity has collected 5,587 duffel bags and suitcases and helped thousands of children in foster care and those experiencing trauma.  

October also marked a record-breaking month for Duffels of Dignity:

  • During the 2025 International City/County Management Association Conference in Tampa, Duffels of Dignity was selected as the official service project. Thanks to a generous donation from Tampa Electric, volunteers filled more than 300 duffels with personal hygiene items for local foster youth.
  • Compassion met craftsmanship when The Sewing Group at Arise Church in Brandon dedicated weeks to creating and donating 25 handmade quilts. These quilts will be distributed to children entering foster care.
  • Multiple duffels filled with personal care items were picked up by the local nonprofit Madi’s Movement and distributed to young adults ages 16 to 25 who are aging out of the foster care system.  

What started as a county initiative led by the children’s services department has evolved into a collaboration among public agencies, faith-based organizations and residents. The program’s success is driven by volunteers who fill the bags, businesses that provide supplies and donors who help ensure every child receives the same message of dignity and hope.

Community members and organizations interested in supporting Duffels of Dignity can learn more at HCFL.gov/DuffelsOfDignity. Donations of new or gently duffel bags and personal care items are always welcome.

What’s Happening (11/12/25): Woman’s club to host crafts show

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Woman’s club to host Lutz Arts & Crafts Show

ODESSA – The Lutz Arts & Crafts Show is back for its 46th year, bringing holiday cheer and handcrafted creativity to the community.

This long-running community tradition features more than 150 booths offering a wide variety of handmade arts, crafts, home décor, jewelry, gifts and seasonal treasures. Visitors can expect to find unique, one-of-a-kind items from talented local and regional artisans.

“The Lutz Arts & Crafts Show has been a cherished tradition for over four decades,” coordinator Faith Sincich said. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to celebrate the season, support local artists and enjoy a festive community atmosphere.”

There will be indoor and outdoor booths, a variety of food vendors, and live music from DJ Pat George, who will play  holiday tunes and announcements throughout the weekend. 

Santa Claus will also make an appearance.

The show takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dec. 6 and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Dec. 7 at Keystone Prep High School, 18105 Gunn Hwy., Odessa. 

General parking cost $5 cash. VIP parking costs $10 cash. Parking proceeds benefit Keystone Prep High School, with limited handicap parking available on-site.

Contact Faith Sincich at 813-389-2719 or for more information or vendor inquiries, 

 

Nov. 12

Colors in a Leaf

Teens explore how chromatography reveals the different colors found in leaves at Town ‘N Country Regional Public Library. hcplc.org

3-4:30 p.m.; 7606 Paula Drive,  Tampa

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack instructs a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Chess Club

Play and improve your game at the weekly U.S. Chess Federation–affiliated club at Hugh Embry Library. Open to all ages and skill levels. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

5:15-7:45 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Teen Advisory Board

Teens can join the Teen Advisory Board at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center to gain leadership experience, make a difference and earn volunteer hours. Members help plan and promote teen programs and events. Email for details. Call 727-815-7126 for more information.

6:30-7:30 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Nov. 12-16

Midsummer Night’s Dream

ThinkTank Theatre presents “Midsummer Night’s Dream,” William Shakespeare’s classic play reimagined at The Althenian, a summer beach resort. The show runs through Nov. 16, at The JCC on the Cohn Campus. Recommended for 11 and older. Adult tickets cost $30. Students, active military, veterans and seniors (65+) pay $22. thinktanktya.org/midsummer

Various times; 13009 Community Campus Drive, Tampa

 

Nov. 13

Storytime Fun!

Read, sing, dance and play with little learners during an interactive storytime at Zephyrhills Public Library. For toddlers and preschoolers. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Hot Sauce

UF/IFAS Hillsborough Extension presents “Plant Your Plate: Peppers Hot Sauce 101.” Learn about different types of peppers and create hot sauce in an interactive workshop. Tickets cost $12.51. Get them on eventbrite.com.

10 a.m.-noon; 5339 County Road 579, Tampa

 

Tech Help

Library staff are available for computer or mobile device basics at Hugh Embry Library. Bring a device or use a public computer. Registration required. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

10 a.m.-noon; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Preschool Storytime

Children ages 3–5 and their caregivers enjoy stories and songs at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Medicare Basics

SHINE Presents: Medicare Basics and the latest updates at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Tuning Forks Relaxation

Adults experience a de-stressing sound session for adults with Michele Gould at Land O’ Lakes Library. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Chess Club

Rick J. McKnight instructs a chess club at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Open to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced players. For ages 9-18. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

3-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack instructs a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Yarn for a Cause

Join other yarn enthusiasts at New River Library for a weekly gathering to share projects and tips. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

6-7 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Republican Club

The Wesley Chapel Republican Club holds its November meeting at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church. Shawn Harrison, former Florida House member and Tampa attorney, discusses “The Changing Landscape in Politics, a Lack of Civility and a Loss of the Big Philosophy of Ronald Reagan.” Coffee and homemade dessert will be served. Doors open at 6 p.m.

6:30 p.m.; 2017 Reigler Road, Land O’ Lakes

 

Florida’s First People  

Learn about Florida’s First People with the Tampa Bay History Center at Bloomingdale Regional Public Library. Discover how early native groups lived off the land and how European exploration changed their world. Recommended for adults. 

6:30-7:30 p.m.; 1906 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico

 

Nov. 14

Toddler Storytime

Toddlers ages 1-2 and their caregivers listen to stories and songs at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

9:45-10:05, 10:15-10:35 and 11:15-11:35 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Dance, Dance, Freeze!

Children and caregivers have fun at a library dance party with songs, shaker eggs, bubbles and more at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

English Conversation Corner

Join trained tutors to improve English language skills at Hugh Embry Library. This program is for adult ESL learners and English-speaking learners wanting to improve reading and writing skills. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

10-11:30 a.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Holiday Reads Genre Party

Celebrate your favorite festive stories at Thonotosassa Branch Library. Join fellow readers for games and short writing challenges that bring holiday joy to life. Recommended for adults. Registration suggested. hcplc.org

11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 10715 Main St., Thonotosassa

 

Movie and Craft

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center hosts an after-school movie and crafts session. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

3-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Toastmasters Club

Looking to become a more confident speaker or leader? Join the new Toastmasters club meeting at Dade City Christian Church, Building B. Meetings are held the second and fourth Fridays. Toastmasters is a supportive, fun way to improve public speaking, leadership and communication skills. Text 435-772-1151 for full details or just show up.

6-7:30 p.m.; 18000 Windsorwood Ave., Dade City

 

Nov. 15

Book and Craft Sale

Browse books and crafts available for purchase at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. The sale runs Nov. 15-Dec. 22.

All day; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Craft Fair

Terrace Park Estates Holiday Craft Fair/Community Wide Yard Sales takes place in Wesley Chapel. The craft fair includes crafts from 10 local vendors, bake sale, Christmas tree room and silent auction. There will also be two food trucks.

9 a.m.–2 p.m.; 33741 Terrace Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Garage Sale

Suncoast Harmony Chorus of Sweet Adelines sponsors a multi-family garage sale.

9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 7814 Mitchell Ranch Road, New Port Richey

 

Genealogy Society Meeting

Learn about genealogy research using Newspapers.com and GenealogyBank.com at Zephyrhills Public Library. The meeting will cover transcription and fact-harvesting methods. Open to all interested in genealogy. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

9:30-11:30 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

SHINE: Medicare

Find out about Medicare and what benefits you need to review each year at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call Geralyn at SHINE at 727-570-9696 ext. 234 for details. 

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

 

Read to Rover

Young readers and families can visit Hugh Embry Library to read to therapy dogs from the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Garden Club

Eric Roman of ZephyrGills Mushroom Farm presents a program on growing mushrooms in your garden at New River Library. Learn about mycelium and cultivation techniques. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

10:30 a.m.-noon; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Children’s Theatre

Enjoy a children’s theater performance at Town ‘N Country Regional Public Library celebrating imagination and storytelling. Perfect for ages 6 and up. Tickets are available 30 minutes before the event.

11 a.m.-noon; 7606 Paula Drive,  Tampa

 

MacDill Air Force Base

Discover the history of MacDill Air Force Base with the Tampa Bay History Center at New Tampa Regional Library. Learn how it evolved from forest to global command hub. Recommended for adults.

11 a.m.-noon; 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa

 

Fall Maker Craft 

Ms. Priscilla leads a craft activity at Hugh Embry Library. Open to grades K–3. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

2-3 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Loom Weaving 

Learn the basics of weaving on a loom using yarn, a loom and creativity at Land O’ Lakes Library. All materials and instructions provided. For ages 9-12. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

2-3:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Yoga

Dan Suede leads a yoga session focusing on relaxation and mindfulness at Land O’ Lakes Library. Bring a yoga mat. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

3-4 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

English Conversation 

Trained tutors help improve English reading, writing and speaking skills at New River Library. For ESL learners and English speakers who want to read or write better. Call 813-788-6375 to reserve a seat.

3-4:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Democratic Club 

The Central Pasco Democratic Club meets at Meadow Pointe I Clubhouse and on Zoom. Guest speaker Chris Irizarry, candidate for Congress District 12, will discuss winning the U.S. House. All friends of the Democratic Party are invited. Visit centralpascodems.com or call 813-453-1663 for details.

6 p.m.; 28245 County Line Road, Wesley Chapel

 

Nov. 16

Novels on Ta

Join the book club at Thirsty Buffalo Brew Factory to discuss “The Diamond Eye” by Kate Quinn. Recommended for adults. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

2-3:30 p.m.; 2330 Success Drive, Odessa

 

Nov. 17

Baby Storytime 

Introduce your little one to books, rhymes and music at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. For infants up to 18 months. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

10:15-10:50 and 11:05-11:40 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Teen: Blind Taste Test

Join Hugh Embry Library to taste and identify mystery foods. Open to teens in grades 8–12. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Turkeys, Wild Fun!

Children ages 6-12 learn about the history and cultural impact of turkeys and make a turkey bookmark at North Tampa Branch Library. hcplc.org

4-5 p.m.; 8916 North Blvd., Tampa

 

Teen Advisory Board 

The Teen Advisory Board at Land O’ Lakes Library shares ideas and helps plan teen programs. For ages 13–18. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

4-5:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Democratic Club 

The East Pasco Democratic Club meets at the Genesis Center and on Zoom. Guest speaker Jose “Joe” Engell, candidate for U.S. Congress District 15, will discuss winning back the U.S. House. All friends of the Democratic Party are welcome. Refreshments provided. Visit eastpascodems.com or call 813-383-8315 for details. 

6:30 p.m.; 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills

 

Nov. 18

Medicare/Medicaid 

Get help applying for QMB, Medicaid and SNAP at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call José Rodríguez at 813-420-3013 for details.

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

 

Preschool Praise and Play

Dade City First United Methodist Church invites you to a free community preschool playtime. Enjoy a scripture story, music, craft and playtime with new friends. Activities are geared toward toddlers and preschoolers, but all ages are welcome. Email with questions or text 833-374-4043 for a text reminder. 9:30-10:30 a.m.; 37628 Church Ave., Dade City

 

Book Sale

Join the Friends of the Library for a weekly book sale at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Woodworking Open Build

Use the foundry tools to work on your project at Land O’ Lakes Library. Ages 18+ or 9+ with a guardian. Registration required.

10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Toddler Storytime

Children enjoy reading, singing and dancing during Toddler Storytime at New River Library. Limited to 25 children with their grownup.

10:15-11 a.m. and 11-11:45 a.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Health Workshop

BayCare Heart explains common heart conditions and lifestyle modifications at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Registration required.

11 a.m.-noon; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

BINGO! 

Play BINGO, win prizes and enjoy community fun at Zephyrhills Public Library. Free admission. Call 813-780-0064 to register.

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

 

Dungeons and Dragons 

Join fellow adventurers at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center to play one-shot D&D campaigns. For tweens and teens.

3-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Teen Volunteer Orientation

Teens ages 13-18 can learn about volunteer opportunities at New River Library. Apply online before attending. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

6-7 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Teen Advisory Board

Help plan programs for teens at New River Library and earn volunteer time. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

7-7:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Nov. 21

Christmas Book Sale

The Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library host a Christmas book sale in the library bookstore beginning Nov. 21. Browse fiction, nonfiction and children’s books, with prices marked by colored stickers. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

Library hours; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Nov. 22

Model Train Show/Sale

Visit the Hernando Fairgrounds for the Regal Railways Model Train Show and Sale, featuring more than 70 tables of vendors offering model trains, toys and more. Enjoy a running train layout, test track and the chance for kids to be an engineer. A food vendor will be on-site. Admission costs $6 for adults; children 12 and under get in free. Credit cards are accepted. Prepay at regalrailways.com. 

9 a.m.-2 p.m.; 6436 Broad St., Brooksville

 

Kiwanis Club forms in Land O’ Lakes

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LAND O’ LAKES – Kiwanis Club of Land O’ Lakes launched last month, uniting passionate residents who are ready to make a difference through volunteer projects, youth programs and community partnerships.

The new club is a chapter of Kiwanis International, a global service organization dedicated to improving the lives of children. It joins a global network of nearly 500,000 Kiwanis family members who work to create positive change through hands-on service, fundraising and youth leadership programs. 

The Land O’ Lakes chapter will support local schools, youth programs and community development initiatives that align with Kiwanis International’s mission of “improving the world, one child and one community at a time.”

“Our goal is to be a positive force in Land O’ Lakes,” said Jeanna Lee, vice president of the new club. “We’re a group of neighbors who care deeply about our community, and we’re excited to roll up our sleeves and serve.”

The club’s members are already planning their first service initiatives, including a Halloween costume drive and volunteering with St. Vincent de Paul Society.

The Kiwanis Club of Land O’ Lakes welcomes anyone interested in community service and leadership to join. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/LandOLakesFLKiwanis or email for more information about membership or upcoming service opportunities.

 

Greatest Show On Earth returning to Tampa

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The Greatest Show On Earth is back with a high-energy, music-driven experience with bold circus performances, unforgettable characters and a nonstop party vibe. Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

The Greatest Show On Earth is back with a high-energy, music-driven experience with bold circus performances, unforgettable characters and a nonstop party vibe. Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

  • A massive LED screen and cameras spotlight fan reactions in real time, transforming every seat in the arena into a front-row experience. Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment
  • Music powers every moment of the tour, with beat drops, live drumming, dance battles and DJ-led segments. The soundtrack features a blend of chart-topping pop hits and original Ringling fan-favorite songs. Photo courtesy of Feld Entertainment

TAMPA – Tickets are on sale now for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents The Greatest Show On Earth. Reimagined for a new generation, this larger-than-life production bursts back into Tampa for the launch of a national tour playing at Benchmark International Arena from Jan. 2 to 4, 2026.

The Ringling cast features 65 performers from 17 countries, including Mongolia, Chile, Colombia, Ukraine, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and China, many making their U.S. debuts.

This production is highlighted by several new acts and performers, including the Acro-Salsa Troupe (Colombia), Contortion (United States) and Acrobatic Bikes & Hoop Diving (China).

The show is complemented by a reimagined stage design featuring a massive LED screen and cameras that capture angles to enhance the live performances.

Get tickets at Ticketmaster.com. Advanced parking passes are available at ParkWhiz.com. 

Food + Beer expands to Pasco County

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Food + Beer’s late hours offer a spot for those in the hospitality industry to grab a bite or a drink after a la

WESLEY CHAPEL – Sarasota-based neighborhood hangout Food + Beer is heading north with its eighth location and first in Pasco County opening the week of Nov. 10 at 25026 Wesley Chapel Blvd.

The new restaurant will seat 150 guests and feature an outdoor patio and a TV wall.

Just like every Food + Beer, the kitchen is scratch-made, serving food until 1 a.m. (or later). 

Food + Beer co-founders Mike Whalen and Casey Daniels sought a restaurant with a laid-back welcoming atmosphere. Photo courtesy of Food + Beer

Guests can dig into house staples like fresh-cut fries, hand-breaded boneless nuggets, specialty burgers and the Korean Beef Bowl, alongside creative comfort food with a twist like Red Velvet Chicken & Waffles during brunch or Crab Rangoon Mozzarella Sticks that hit all the right notes. 

Food + Beer offers daily lunch specials starting at $8, plus a lineup of weekly events and deals, including Burger Monday, Taco Tuesday, Trivia Wednesday, 89¢ Wing Thursday and Weekend Brunch. 

The team keeps things fresh by rolling out a seasonal menu four times a year, spotlighting new, scratch-made dishes and limited-time cocktails, paired with a signature cocktail list and a rotating selection of local beers. 

Food + Beer’s story started back in the early 2000s, when co-founders Mike Whalen and Casey Daniels first crossed paths working in restaurants. Mike was a server. Casey was a kitchen manager. 

What began as a solid working relationship turned into a real friendship and eventually a shared dream: to create a place that serves good, scratch-made food in a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. 

In 2018, they brought that vision to life in Sarasota’s Gulf Gate neighborhood. The brand is now expanding across the Gulf Coast with more locations on the way, including Ellenton and West Tampa coming in 2026.

 

Want to know more?

Stay tuned for updates, events and new openings at foodandbeer.com or on social @foodand.beer. 

 

Duke Energy Florida gets OK to lower customer bills  

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  1. PETERSBURG – The Florida Public Service Commission has approved Duke Energy Florida’s request to lower customer bills beginning in March 2026.

As a result, residential customers can anticipate about a $44 decrease for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity they use when compared to February 2026.

“Having operated in Florida for more than 125 years, we’re deeply embedded in the communities we serve, and we understand the challenges our customers – often our neighbors – face in order to provide for themselves and their families,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president. “We hope this bill reduction helps ease their financial burden, while we continue providing the reliable power they depend on every day.”

Commercial and industrial customers can also expect to see lower bills in March 2026, with decreases ranging from 9.6% to 15.8% compared to February 2026. The specific impact will vary depending on several factors.

This considerable bill reduction is largely due to the removal of the storm cost recovery charge associated with Duke Energy Florida’s response to hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton at the end of February 2026.

In January and February 2026 (prior to the removal of the storm cost recovery charge), bills will temporarily increase by $7.54 for typical residential customers using 1,000 kWh of electricity, and commercial and industrial customers’ bills will increase between 4.3% and 8.2% during those two months, when compared to December 2025.

Duke Energy Florida offers payment plans, tools to help manage energy use and assistance programs. Visit duke-energy.com/HereToHelp and duke-energy.com/SeasonalSavings to learn more. 

 

Did you know?

Duke Energy Florida supplies electricity to 2 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida.

Professor offers seven tips for cybersecurity awareness

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ST. LEO – October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a national initiative dedicated to promoting digital safety and strengthening the cybersecurity workforce. 

Saint Leo University is preparing students for employment in the cyber sector. It was one of the Tampa Bay area’s first institutions to offer cybersecurity degrees.

Edward Santiago, assistant professor of computer science in the university’s College of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics and Data Science, explains why cybersecurity awareness is essential in today’s digital world and shares tips to keep you protected.

“In today’s digital age, we can only approach innovation with caution and adjust to its pace,” Santiago said. “Be aware that every digital device collects, tracks and monitors your activity, especially those connected to a Wi-Fi service. Knowing what you can share, especially with AI systems that learn from your input, is a step toward information security. AI is smart because everything you type becomes part of its knowledge base. In the end, nothing is truly free. Someone always pays. And in the digital economy, the product is often you.”

Here are his cybersecurity tips for daily life:

  • Use strong, unique passwords for every account and consider a password manager to keep them safe.
  • Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of protection.
  • Update devices and software regularly to limit security vulnerabilities.
  • Limit what you share online, especially on social media and AI platforms.
  • Be cautious with public Wi-Fi and use a VPN when accessing sensitive accounts.
  • Check app permissions. Don’t allow unnecessary access to your location, microphone or contacts.
  • Back up your data regularly to protect against loss or ransomware attacks.

Santiago teaches cybersecurity and AI at both the graduate and undergraduate levels at Saint Leo’s College of CARDS. With more than 25 years in IT, cybersecurity and academic leadership, he mentors students and creates hands-on learning experiences. He will accompany the Saint Leo PenTest Club to the CyberBay Summit 2025 Capture the Flag competition on Oct. 15 and the Raymond James Capture the Flag competition on Oct. 18.

 

St. Pete BikeFest revs up next month

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CLEARWATER – The rumble returns as the eighth annual St. Pete BikeFest roars into town for four days of chrome, concerts and coastal fun. 

Tens of thousands of riders and music fans from across the country will roll in for live music, custom bike shows, a charity ride led by Paul Teutul Sr. of Orange County Choppers, vendor expos and nonstop entertainment.

It’s happening from Nov. 20 to 23 at OCC Road House & Museum, 10575 49th St. N., Clearwater. 

Here are five reasons you may want to go: 

  • Concerts – More than 12 national and regional acts will perform on two stages throughout the weekend, with nightly headline acts including Homegrown Zac Brown Tribute and Bearded Brothers Band (Nov. 20); Pete Hunt Band and Creed Fisher (Nov. 21); and Shovelhed and Blackberry Smoke (Nov. 22). Daily live music continues Nov. 21 to 23 until 6 p.m. All concerts are free with ticketed VIP seating options available for the evening headliners on Nov. 21 and 22.
  • Bike Show – The free-to-register public ride-in Bike Show takes place at OCC Road House on Nov. 22, with registration at 11 a.m. and awards at 3 p.m. Divisions include chopper, bagger, vintage, stock with major or minor modifications, metric/sport and Paul Sr.’s Choice Award.
  • Charity Ride – Paul Teutul Sr. leads a scenic ride Nov. 23 from OCC Road House over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, open to all riders. Staging begins at 9 a.m., kickstands up at 10:30 a.m. No advance registration required. Waivers will be signed during staging.
  • Vendor Row – Dozens of vendors will showcase the latest in bike gear, accessories and apparel at OCC Road House from Nov. 20 to 23.
  • Adrenaline Zone – High-energy attractions throughout the weekend include the Chuter’s Parachute Jump from 5,000 feet (Nov. 20), WWN Pro Wrestling (Nov. 21), mechanical bull rides and burnout exhibitions (Nov. 22) and axe throwing (Nov. 23).

 

Want to go?

Onsite parking is reserved for motorcycles only, with very limited car parking available in the grass lot next door and on the south end of the campus. Ridesharing is strongly encouraged.

Admission to St. Pete BikeFest, including all daytime concerts, is free and open to the public. Ticketed VIP seating options for nightly headliner concerts on Nov. 21 and 22 range from $49 to $99, offering premium stage access, air-conditioned restrooms, dedicated bars and a dedicated server.

Visit SaintPeteBikeFest.com or call 727-432-3428 for schedules and VIP concert tickets.

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

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Chris Garrido weighed 440 pounds last summer. Everyday tasks were exhausting, his health was deteriorating and he feared he wouldn’t be around to see his children grow up. The turning point came when he made a promise to himself and to his family to be “Fit by 50.”

LAND O’ LAKES – Land O’ Lakes resident Chris Garrido has released a book, “Fit by 50: My Yearlong Journey from Death to Life,” that explains how he transformed his health, mindset and faith to lose 130 pounds in one year.

A year before his 50th birthday, Garrido found himself at his lowest point. He was 440 pounds, exhausted and fearful for his future. 

With the support of his family, his faith and a commitment to change, he began a journey that would not only restore his body but also renew his purpose and spirit. 

“I called it ‘Fit by 50,’ but this wasn’t just about getting in shape,” said Garrido. “It was about coming back to life – physically, mentally and spiritually. I wanted to prove that no matter how far gone you think you are, there’s always hope. You’re not done yet.” 

The journey wasn’t glamorous. It was filled with setbacks, exhaustion, self-doubt and moments of pain that tested him. But with faith as his foundation and family as his motivation, Garrido pressed forward. 

As Garrido began sharing his progress publicly, something unexpected happened. His story began to spread beyond the gym. Messages started pouring in from people across the country who said they were inspired by his transformation and his honesty about the struggle. 

“That’s really where the idea for the book was born,” Garrido said. “The response has been overwhelming and humbling. I’ve had to learn to be OK with inspiring people in the very area I’ve failed at most of my life. But that’s where the redemption is – using your lowest moments to lift someone else up.” 

“Fit by 50” offers readers a look at how consistent actions guided by discipline, purpose and grace can lead to radical transformation. 

The book is available in paperback on Amazon (https://a.co/d/4ZeNDp7). Follow Garrido’s journey on social media at instagram.com/chrisgarrido_fit50.