The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Community repairs veterans’ homes 

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Vet Housing 001 & 002: Volunteers work on a new roof for Linda Hardy. Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough

 

TAMPA – Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough’s annual Veterans Build Week of Service brought volunteers together to fix and build homes for veterans and their families.

As part of the week, volunteers helped build a new home for U.S. Army veteran Brian Nakamura, who has been raising six children, ages 4 to 14 years, with his wife in a cramped townhouse. 

Nakamura worked alongside volunteers from Friends of Military Families wielding hammers, saws and power tools to construct the family’s new five-bedroom home in the Windhorst Commons community in Brandon. 

For some of the kids, it will be the first bedroom of their own.

“We are so grateful and honored to be standing here today, seeing the home taking shape with the support of Habitat, volunteers and our community,” Nakamura said. “They’re not just building a roof and walls, they’re showing support for veterans like me and building a foundation for our children’s future.”

Volunteers worked on essential home repairs and improvements for veteran homeowners across the county. 

Marine Corps veteran Elijah Straker-Gooden and U.S. Coast Guard veteran Henry Gauvreau, who both recently became Habitat for Humanity homeowners, worked alongside volunteers from Lowe’s, Johnson & Johnson, and West Florida Fence to build utility sheds and install security fencing for their homes.

Linda Hardy, whose late husband Alfonzo Hardy had served in the U.S. Army, was grateful to Southeastern Roofing, which spent a day replacing her aging roof that was badly damaged in last year’s hurricanes.

Support for the Veterans Build Week of Service was also made possible through the nonprofit’s seventh annual Veterans Inshore Slam Fishing Tournament. The event raised more than $130,000 to fund these home repairs and new builds for local veteran families.  

“Our generous sponsors and inspired volunteers really stepped up this week to show their respect and serve those who served,” said Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough CEO Tina Forcier. “This work reflects our commitment to housing and shows our veterans the gratitude and respect they deserve for their service to our country.”

 

Bikes For Christ reaches 3,000 bike milestone 

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TAMPA BAY – Bikes For Christ has reached its 3,000th bicycle milestone as it rolls into the 2025 holiday season, continuing its mission to change lives one bike at a time. The nonprofit is also closing in on serving 200 partner organizations across the Tampa Bay area.

Bikes For Christ provides bicycles to more than 150 organizations throughout Tampa Bay that directly assist clients in need. The ministry’s main focus is on veterans working to re-establish themselves, underprivileged children and individuals seeking a fresh start.

A simple gift of a bicycle can be life-changing, enabling a low-income parent to travel to work, attend parenting classes or visit a doctor. For children, it can mean a safe way to commute to school, attend tutoring sessions or reach their first job.

To celebrate the season and support its mission, Bikes For Christ will host its second annual Bicycles and Holiday Bells fundraiser from 1 to 3 p.m. Dec. 6 at Belleair Towers, 1100 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Clearwater.

The event will feature photos with Santa, food, drinks, raffles, silent auctions, and a Family Fun Ride on the Pinellas Trail at 2 p.m. The afternoon will bring joy to the senior residents of Belleair Towers, while all proceeds go directly to Bikes For Christ’s ongoing programs.

This year marks the seventh year that Bikes For Christ has provided bicycles to underprivileged children at Bailey Elementary School. Since the program’s start, the organization has brought joy and opportunity to roughly 150 children during the Christmas season.

Each year, Bikes For Christ provides approximately 100 bicycles to veterans who are working to rebuild their lives and regain independence.

As the year comes to a close, Bikes For Christ is calling on the community to help sustain its mission into 2026. With growing demand for bicycles and transportation assistance, financial donations are urgently needed to continue providing hope and mobility to veterans, children, and families in need.

“Every dollar truly makes a difference,” said Pat Simmons, founder and president of Bikes For Christ. “A single donation can help us purchase parts, repair donated bicycles, and deliver hope to someone ready to move forward.”

Donations can be made securely online at Bikes4Christ.com/donations. All contributions are tax-deductible and directly support local program services.

 

Tampa Theatre leader transitioning toward retirement 

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John Bell has led the Tampa Theatre for 40 years of its near century of existence. Photo courtesy of Tampa Theatre

TAMPA – Tampa Theatre President and CEO John Bell has announced plans to retire early next summer, marking the end of 40 years leading one of the nation’s most celebrated historic movie palaces.

The board of directors has retained Margaret Genovese of Genovese Vanderhoof & Associates to search for Bell’s successor. The new leader is expected to be announced next spring, ahead of the 100th anniversary in October 2026.

Under Bell’s leadership, Tampa Theatre has evolved from a once-struggling civic project into an internationally recognized cultural landmark, hosting more than 1,000 events and welcoming some 120,000 guests annually. 

“John has been the heart and soul of Tampa Theatre for four decades,” said Ann Shaler, board chair. “His love for this building and his unwavering commitment to its preservation and purpose have ensured that Tampa Theatre remains not just a Tampa treasure, but a world-class destination.”

When Bell arrived in Tampa in 1985, the theater had been saved from demolition nine years prior and was showing mostly classic films under the management of the Hillsborough County Arts Council. 

Bell expanded programming to include first-run independent films, creating the long-running Summer Classics movie series. 

He also transformed the 1,238-seat theater into one of the region’s most intimate live concert venues. Tampa Theatre welcomed artists ranging from Annie Lennox and Harry Connick Jr. to Jimmy Fallon and David Byrne.

In 2010, Bell led its evolution away from the arts council to governance under its own nonprofit to bolster fundraising.

“When I first arrived here, Tampa Theatre was a lonely beacon of light in an otherwise desolate downtown,” Bell said. “I’ve had a front row seat to see the transformation of our neighborhood and how Tampa Theatre has played a part in downtown Tampa’s renaissance.”

He has led Tampa Theatre through multiple major restoration and modernization projects, including the 2017 lobby restoration and 43-seat John T. Taylor screening room, as well as the current planning for the historic landmark’s full restoration through its Second Century Capital Campaign. 

The campaign has already raised 91% of its goal for $24 million worth of work to be completed ahead of the theater’s 100th anniversary in 2026, part of a plan to invest $30 million over the next several years.

Bell’s influence extends beyond the Bay area. During his tenure, Tampa Theatre has been named among the “World’s Most Beautiful Cinemas” by the BBC, one of “America’s 21 Wonders” by LIFE magazine, and one of the “10 of the World’s Best Movie Theaters” by the Motion Picture Association of America.

“Tampa Theatre has been my passion and my purpose,” Bell said. “It’s been the honor of a lifetime to be part of its story.”

 

Consumer data drives Sun-Ray Cinema’s approach 

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TAMPA – Sleeping Giant Fest and Sun-Ray Cinema are taking on the changing landscape of moviegoing, and they’ve brought the data to back it up. 

In a partnership with the University of South Florida, interns have spent the fall semester gathering insight into how audiences feel about going to the movies and what they’re asking for next.

Their findings were blunt: Moviegoing doesn’t feel personal anymore. Audiences are less respectful. Everything is too expensive. Blockbusters take all the oxygen. Communal energy is missing.

Sun-Ray Cinema is designed to answer those concerns point by point: 

  • “It’s not personal anymore.” – Sun-Ray leans hard into personal. No polished hype. Just a real, local crew who loves movies and treats moviegoers like they matter.
  • “Prices have gone up.” – Sun-Ray keeps tickets and concessions offers accessible prices.
  • “Audience behavior has gotten worse.” – Sun-Ray enforces respectful cinema: No seating after 30 minutes into a show, minors must be accompanied by a guardian and guest experience is protected.
  • “It’s all blockbusters.” – Sun-Ray programs repertory, cult classics, 35mm prints, movie marathons, and new releases from smaller studios, playing trailers (no more than 10 minutes) for all types of releases.

Founded in Jacksonville in 2011 and now open at 12332 University Mall Court in Tampa for just over a year, Sun-Ray Cinema is an independent space specializing in curated programming, a house-made menu and cocktails.

Sun-Ray Cinema has recently completed major upgrades, such as new reclining seating, laser projection for bright, crisp picture, and immersive sound.

“We aim to be the antidote to what moviegoers have come to expect,” said Shana David-Massett, board member of Sleeping Giant and co-owner of Sun-Ray Cinema. “The data from USF students affirms what we suspected: people want real connection. So we’re doubling down, both on the personal and on world-class presentation.”

 

Upcoming Events

  • Gorge of the Rings (Dec. 13): All “Lord of the Rings” films in order, with optional Hobbit-style dining.
  • Original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: (Jan. 17:) A slice-for-slice faceoff with local pizzeria Slicedelic.

 

WAVE of Tampa Bay gives families options

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WAVE has received positive feedback from families who appreciate the vibrant community atmosphere that Co-founders Dave and Emily Casale,and their staff have created. Photo courtesy of WAVE of Tampa Bay

BRANDON – WAVE (Wild And Victorious Education) of Tampa Bay has opened online registration for its third semester at waveoftampabay.com.

The 12-week semester runs from Jan. 5 to March 24. Families can explore more than 60 in-person drop-off classes. 

WAVE combines essential academics with more than 20 electives, covering physical education, performing arts and more for grades pre-K to 12. 

Co-founders Dave and Emily Casale, parents of three homeschooled children, envisioned WAVE as a haven where families could find everything they need under one roof. 

“We can’t wait to see our students flourish with new programs like High School Debate and our next theatrical production for our Theatre Lab + Performance students,” Emily Casale said. 

With extensive experience directing performances across North America, her passion for the arts shines through, making WAVE a hub for artistic expression and personal growth.

“Rather than spending valuable time and energy shuttling between various locations, like schools, dance studios, martial arts classes, acrobatics lessons, crafting sessions and a multitude of activities, homeschool families can enroll at WAVE, where all their children’s educational and enrichment needs are met in one place,” Dave Casale said. “This integration allows families to enjoy greater freedom in how they spend their time.”

His background in aviation and entrepreneurship fuels his commitment to providing innovative learning experiences. 

“The homeschool culture in Florida is turning a corner, embracing the community-building approach that WAVE embodies,” he said. 

The Casales aim to elevate homeschooling into the 21st century through innovative approaches while providing families with choice and freedom. 

“We intentionally positioned the WAVE homeschool community to leverage the stunning array of opportunities in the Tampa Metro area, from casual iced coffee meetups in the park to behind-the-scenes high-tech warehouse tours and live theatrical performances,” Dave Casale said. “WAVE stands apart from traditional homeschooling by offering classes led by professionals and facilitating genuine friendship-building.”

Emily Casale said God is at the center of what they do.
“This commitment leads us to incorporate biblical study and faith-based discussions into our daily routines, encouraging students to deepen their relationships with their Creator,” she said. “This foundation not only allows them to prioritize what truly matters, but also empowers them to build authentic relationships and actively contribute to their community in meaningful ways.”

WAVE is a Direct Pay Provider in Florida’s Step Up for Students (PEP, UA) program, eliminating the reimbursement process, which allows families to focus on the successful outcomes of their children’s homeschool education and opportunities. All of their classes are Direct-Pay approved for tuition and fees.

 

Need volunteer opportunities?

WAVE invites teenagers looking to fulfill volunteer hour requirements to join them. 

Whether you are interested in assisting with classes, helping to organize events or supporting community outreach initiatives, there are many ways to contribute while gaining experience.

Email or call 813-280-5553 for details. 

 

Winter Village returns for 10th anniversary season

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TAMPA – Downtown Tampa’s Winter Village returns from Nov. 21 to Jan. 4 at Curtis Hixon Park for its 10th anniversary season. 

The event transforms the Tampa Riverwalk into a waterfront winter destination with light shows, games and music.

This year’s Winter Village celebrates a decade of holiday magic with new attractions and a record number of local businesses, making it a destination to skate, shop and celebrate the spirit of the season.

Kenyetta Hairston-Bridges, president and CEO of the Tampa Downtown Partnership, said the event also celebrates the people, small businesses and partnerships that make downtown vibrant and welcoming.

“Winter Village has grown from a small community gathering into a cherished Tampa tradition that brings families, friends and visitors together in Tampa’s Downtown,” Hairston-Bridges said. 

 

What’s New in 2025?

  • 10th Anniversary Time Capsule: Opening Day (Nov. 21) marks the start of the season with a time capsule celebration. Guests are invited to bring a photo from past visits or snap a new Polaroid onsite to include in a capsule that will be sealed until the event’s 20th anniversary in 2035.
  • River of Lights Boat Tours: In partnership with Pirate Water Taxi, guests can hop aboard the River of Lights cruise for a 45-minute journey down the Hillsborough River, departing from Winter Village (Stop #12). The cruise features sing-alongs with snow flurries, games and visits from Santa’s helpers. Kids can mail letters to Santa at the floating mail station, bringing awareness to the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Tickets cost $35 for adults and $25 for children.

 

Skate, Sip and Shop Local

  • The real-ice skating rink returns as the centerpiece of Winter Village, offering 75-minute sessions for $17 per skater, which includes skate rental. Skating hours vary by school schedules and holidays, with extended hours during Hillsborough schools’ winter break. Tickets are available at WinterVillageTampa.com.
  • Guests can refuel at Icicles Craft Kitchen & Bar, Mi Cafecito Coffee, Gourmet Crepes and Whatever Pops.
  • The Shops of Winter Village will spotlight 70 local small businesses this year (up from 41 last season), with 10 full-season retailers, seven partial-season shops and more than 30 rotating vendors through the holidays. Visitors can shop for handmade gifts, apparel, art, and treats daily from Nov. 21 to Jan. 4 (hours vary by day).
  • Celebrate Shop Small Weekend from noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 28 to 30 with 18 additional small businesses. The first 100 shoppers will receive a “I Shopped Small at Winter Village” tote bag.

 

Daily Programming

From themed skate nights to silent discos, Winter Village is packed with activities for all ages:

  • Tuesdays – Theme Skate Nights: Enjoy rotating themed nights like Grinchmas, Ugly Sweater and Lightning Bolts & Snowflakes, including photo ops by Tampa General Hospital.
  • Wednesdays – Trivia and Holiday Game Night: Test your knowledge at trivia from 2 to 4 p.m. and enjoy additional holiday games when the shops and cafe are open.
  • Thursdays – Thunderstruck Thursdays: Celebrate Tampa Bay Lightning pride by purchasing themed menu items for the chance to win tickets.
  • Fridays – Silent Disco: Dance under the stars with headset rentals from 6 to 9 p.m.
  • Saturdays – Shop Small Saturdays: Surprise tote giveaways and local vendor spotlights.
  • Ice Shows: Watch performances on select dates throughout the season.

Winter Village Express is back with milk, cookies and entertainment led by new characters Rudy and Holly. The  holiday train ride on the TECO Line Streetcar runs from Whiting Station to Ybor City. Tickets cost $10 and must be purchased in advance.

Winter Village will debut 10th anniversary merchandise for purchase.

On the web: WinterVillageTampa.com

Zephyrhills artist works to bring local heritage to canvas 

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“Founders’ Day, Zephyrhills” depicts the city’s annual festival, honoring its founding, community pride, and enduring small-town identity. Photo courtesy of Abraham Albadawi

 

“Pure Water,” a digital rendition by Abraham Albadawi, is part of the Zephyrhills Art Heritage Project. “The goal was to capture the calm and clarity that people associate with Zephyrhills itself,” he said, “its springs, its stillness, its sense of place.” Photo courtesy of Abraham Albadawi

ZEPHYRHILLS – A new art initiative is taking shape in Zephyrhills, aiming to capture the city’s beauty and highlight its place within Pasco County’s cultural story. 

The Zephyrhills Art Heritage Project, led by local artist Abraham Albadawi, will feature two Impressionist-style oil paintings celebrating the city’s spirit. 

The first, “Pure Water,” reflects the calm of Zephyrhills’ natural springs, while the second, “Founders’ Day, Zephyrhills,” portrays the color and energy of the city’s annual heritage festival. 

The works are intended to serve as lasting tributes to Zephyrhills’ sense of place and pride. Albadawi said the goal is to keep local artistry visible and to show how creativity can help preserve the city’s story within the wider cultural landscape of Pasco County.

After showing early digital versions around the Historic District, Albadawi said the feedback was encouraging. “One person said it was refreshing to see something that truly represents Zephyrhills,” he said. “Another hoped the paintings would be displayed in a public space so everyone could enjoy them, and some mentioned they’d love to see familiar landmarks like the train depot or veterans park included in future works.”

Discussions with local organizations and community leaders are underway. Full oil versions are expected to be completed later this year.

“People care deeply about how their city is represented,” Albadawi said. “That kind of engagement shows how much pride Zephyrhills has in its story.” 

 

MLB, NFL legends raise money for health and wellness center

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More than 20 retired MLB and NFL players participated in the annual event to benefit the AdventHealth Sebring Foundation. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

• Charity Golf 001 & 002: More than 20 retired MLB and NFL players participated in the annual event to benefit the AdventHealth Sebring Foundation. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
• Charity Golf 003: Retired MLB pitcher Thomas “Flash” Gordon thanked the event participants for supporting the community by taking part in the event. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
• Charity Golf 004: Jason Dunkel, president and CEO of AdventHealth Sebring, Wauchula and Lake Placid, welcomed the celebrity athletes, who came from across the country to participate in the event. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
• Charity Golf 005: AdventHealth Wauchula Vice President and Administrator Christen Johnson praised Thomas Gordon for his longtime commitment to helping those in the community. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
• Charity Golf 006: Rendering of the planned AdventHealth Wellness Center to be built in Sebring. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

Retired MLB pitcher Thomas “Flash” Gordon thanked the event participants for supporting the community by taking part in the event. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

SEBRING – More than 20 retired MLB and NFL players teamed up with more than 130 business and community leaders to raise money for the AdventHealth Sebring Foundation on Nov. 7 at the Sun N Lake Golf Club.
Money raised during the fifth annual AdventHealth Sebring Foundation Thomas “Flash” Gordon Celebrity Golf Tournament will support a new 21,000-square-foot health and wellness center at AdventHealth Sebring.
Retired MLB pitcher Thomas “Flash” Gordon hosted the event. The three-time MLB All-Star won 138 games and saved 158 more during his 21-year career.
Gordon thanked all the participants for joining the event and helping give back to the community he loves.
“This means so much to us in this community,” he said. “We love each and every one of you. We support each and every one of you. And we’re grateful to have this opportunity to come together. This is about the entire community coming together to raise money for such a great cause.”
Jason Dunkel, president and CEO of AdventHealth Sebring, Wauchula and Lake Placid, welcomed the celebrity athletes, who came from across the country to participate in the event along with local leaders, business partners and community members.
“Thank you for being here and for supporting AdventHealth in the Heartland,” Dunkel said. “We are so thankful for all your support in our ongoing mission to provide exceptional whole-person care in our community, which we are honored to be part of. Every dollar raised today will be used to help even more of our friends and neighbors live healthier, happier lives.”

AdventHealth Wauchula Vice President and Administrator Christen Johnson praised Thomas Gordon for his longtime commitment to helping those in the community. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

AdventHealth Wauchula Vice President and Administrator Christen Johnson praised Gordon for his longtime commitment to helping those in the community.
“Thomas has been instrumental in making sure that we bring wellness to life in our Highlands and Hardee County communities,” Johnson said. “He’s given so much dedication, so much effort and so many contributions to make a difference and change lives for our patients, our families and our hospitals and we can’t be more grateful for the gift you are to us, Thomas.”
Former Baltimore Orioles star and broadcaster Ken Singleton introduced each of the celebrities before they and the golfers hit the links at the event presented by Bill Jarrett Ford of Avon Park. They included Major League Baseball Hall of Famer and Boston Red Sox legend Jim Rice, nine-time MLB All-Star Gary Sheffield, World Series Champion pitcher Mike Torrez, World Series champion outfielder Mookie Wilson and more.
After the participants finished their rounds, the players took time to sign autographs, take photos, talk with event attendees and answer questions about their playing careers.

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.