The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pasco EDC recognizes companies at Annual Awards

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Escape Brewing Company won the Economic Excellence Award (small category) during Pasco EDC’s 37th Annual Awards. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

WESLEY CHAPEL – The Pasco Economic Development Council hosted its 37th Annual Awards event Sept. 5 at Saddlebrook Resort. 

More than 300 people attended the event, a celebration of economic excellence in Pasco County. 

“We had a great night recognizing businesses who have made a significant economic impact in Pasco County,” said Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC president/CEO. “And it was truly an honor to recognize Dewey Mitchell who has made a tremendous contribution to making Pasco County the place it is today.”

The award finalists this year included companies that exhibited exemplary growth through job creation, capital investment, technology, workforce innovation and community service. 

The award winners for 2025 are:

 

  • Economic Excellence Award (small category): Escape Brewing Company

With over $1 million in capital investment, Escape Brewing Company has expanded its operations at Trinity by building a production facility, taproom and beer garden, which has given the company the opportunity to double its production capacity. Additionally, the 2.5-acre expansion has allowed Escape Brewing Company to create a food hall, the first of its kind in Pasco County.

 

  • Economic Excellence Award (large category): Merrell Bros Inc.

Over the last year, Merrell Brothers has invested over $10 million in new land, buildings and equipment to expand its Pasco County operations. The company’s product lines consist of biosolids-derived fertilizers used in farming and general agricultural applications. A part of its investment included a new 28,000-square-foot facility called Florida Green. The company has hired over 30 full-time employees in the past year.

 

  • Innovation in Workforce Development: METTLER TOLEDO

METTLER TOLEDO Product Inspection Division opened in Pasco County in 2016 and employs over 700 people with a focus on employee retention. The company works with local training organizations to provide educational tours to students. The company created The METTLER TOLEDO Early Career Experience Program, which offers recent graduates a structured program that introduces them to various areas within the company.

Dewey Mitchell won the Leadership Award during Pasco EDC’s 37th Annual Awards. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC
  • Leadership Award: Dewey Mitchell

Dewey Mitchell is the owner and co-broker of the local real estate firm, Capstone Tropical Holdings, Inc., comprised of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Properties Group and other entities through which he has brokered many deals in Pasco County that have resulted in a positive economic impact. 

 

  • Pasco Establishment Award: Thirsty Buffalo Brew Factory

Located in the West Pasco Industrial Park in Odessa, Thirsty Buffalo Brew Factory opened its new facility in September 2024. The company manufactures its own craft beer and co-packs other non-alcoholic beverages. After investing $100,000 in a new canning line and brewing equipment, Thirsty Buffalo is manufacturing its products onsite and entering new markets.

Andria Roscart, of Athenaeum Brew Lounge, won the SMARTstart Entrepreneur of the Year during Pasco EDC’s 37th Annual Awards. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC
  • SMARTstart Entrepreneur of the Year: Andria Roscart, Athenaeum Brew Lounge

Andria opened her brick-and-mortar business in 2024 after building out her facility in downtown Dade City. It combines Andria’s dream of creating a place to get quality beer while spending time with friends and family. Andria learned how to start and grow a business using knowledge gained as a graduate of the SMARTstart CO.STARTERS program. She applied this knowledge to open her facility and expand her business.

 

  • Special Contribution: Pasco News Media Group LLC

Reporter Bryan Farrow opened Pasco News in 2020 with a focus on being direct and sharing pertinent information as quickly as possible through his website and Facebook page with over 120,000 followers. During the 2024 hurricane season, Pasco News pivoted all communications to assist in sharing the importance of emergency alerts regarding Pasco County and launched a mobile app, which many residents looked to for updates.

 

Thirsty Buffalo Brewing Company launches Craftek Beverages

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Erin and Mike Bishop’s approach to Thirty Buffalo Brewing Company has been focusing on quality, creativity and community. Photo courtesy of Thirsty Buffalo Brewing Company

TAMPA – Thirsty Buffalo Brewing Company has launched Craftek Beverages, a boutique, family-run beverage co-packer created to help emerging brands bring their drink ideas to life. 

With several new contracts already in place, ranging from THC and CBD seltzers to energy drinks and wellness beverages, Craftek is positioning itself as an incubator for small businesses ready to test, refine, and scale their products without the high barriers to entry of traditional production.

Operating out of Thirsty Buffalo’s 8,000-square-foot Brew Factory in Odessa, Craftek reflects the same hands-on, community-focused spirit that has defined Thirsty Buffalo Brewing since its founding in 2023. 

By offering low minimum order quantities, custom formulations and consulting support, Craftek provides the flexibility and production power that beverage startups and established brands alike need to innovate.

“Thirsty Buffalo is our heart and home. We love serving our community and brewing beers that bring people together,” said co-owner Erin Bishop. “Craftek is a natural next step for us, born from our passion for manufacturing and our desire to help others in the beverage space.”

Craftek Beverages operates out of the Brew Factory in Odessa. Photo courtesy of Thirsty Buffalo Brewing Company

As part of the launch, Thirsty Buffalo has consolidated all operations at its Brew Factory in Odessa (2330 Success Drive). While the company has closed its location at The Hub in Bexley, friends and fans are encouraged to make the short six-mile trip to Odessa, where they will continue to find their favorite beers on tap alongside food, events and the welcoming atmosphere that defines Thirsty Buffalo.

“It’s bittersweet to leave our Bexley taproom, where we built amazing friendships and community connections,” co-owner Mike Bishop said. “We’re incredibly grateful for the support and look forward to welcoming everyone to our Odessa location, which gives us room to grow both the brewery and Craftek.”

The Odessa Brew Factory will remain a vibrant destination with a full-service taproom and kitchen open daily at 11 a.m., serving Thirsty Buffalo’s signature lineup of craft beers and an expanded food menu. Regular events, including live music and trivia, will continue to foster the community spirit that has defined the brand since day one.

On the web: thirstybuffalobrew.com and craftekbev.com 

 

Business Digest (9/3/25): Pasco Purchasing earns national nod

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Pasco Purchasing earns national nod

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County’s Purchasing Department earned the 2025 Achievement of Excellence in Procurement Award from the National Procurement Institute Inc.

The award recognizes the team’s innovation, professionalism and leadership in public purchasing.

“This award reflects the dedication and strategic thinking of our entire purchasing team,” Purchasing Director Carrie Roberts said. “We work hard to ensure every procurement decision is transparent, efficient and community-focused. It’s an honor to be recognized for that work.”

The AEP Award is presented annually to public agencies that meet standards across multiple categories, including productivity, e-procurement and continuous improvement.  

On the web: mypas.co/DoBusinessWithUs

 

Achieva Credit Union appoints market president

DUNEDIN – Achieva Credit Union announced Colin Lopez as market president, overseeing branch operations in Hillsborough, Hernando and Pasco counties, including Carrollwood, Land O’ Lakes, Trinity, New Port Richey and Mariner. Lopez brings more than 15 years of banking experience from leadership roles at Wells Fargo.

“Colin brings strong banking experience and a deep understanding of what it means to serve with heart,” said Renee Grauer, president of retail sales and service.

In addition to his primary role, Lopez is working to expand Achieva’s community-focused initiatives. His efforts include launching new youth financial literacy programs this fall and exploring strategic partnerships with local schools to support classroom learning and deepen community engagement.

“I believe that when we invest in our communities, we all grow,” said Lopez.

On the web: achievacu.com

 

Goodwill Temporary Staffing recruiting for roles

TAMPA – Goodwill Temporary Staffing is hosting an in-house recruitment event, allowing job-seekers to connect with the organization and learn more about the roles and the benefits of working there.

The event takes place from 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 3 at the CareerSource Tampa Bay Gulf to Bay Center, 2312 Gulf to Bay Blvd. Clearwater. Register at careersourcetampabay.com/events/goodwill-hiring-event/.

The event will focus on filling several key positions, including processing associate, sales associate/cashier, and dock worker/warehouse worker.

Candidates are encouraged to bring their resumes and be prepared for on-the-spot interviews. 

 

PeopleReady to host recruitment event

CLEARWATER – PeopleReady, a leader in the industrial staffing industry, is partnering with CareerSource Tampa Bay to host an on-site hiring event.

This hiring event offers job seekers an opportunity to meet directly with hiring managers, learn about open positions, and apply and interview on the same day from 1 to 3 p.m Sept. 3 at the CareerSource Tampa Bay Gulf to Bay Center, 2312 Gulf to Bay Blvd.

PeopleReady is looking to fill several skilled trades roles, including CNC machinist, press operator and second shift mechanic. Attendees are encouraged to register in advance and come prepared with an updated resume. 

Register at ​​careersourcetampabay.com.

 

Shubham Grocery offers U-Haul rentals

ODESSA – U-Haul Co. of Florida announced that Shubham Grocery signed on as a U-Haul neighborhood dealer to serve the Odessa community.

Shubham Grocery, located at 14530 Black Lake Road, will offer essential services like U-Haul trucks, trailers, towing equipment and moving supplies.

Normal business hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. Reserve U-Haul products at this dealer location by calling 813-219-1599 or visiting uhaul.com/Locations/Truck-Rentals-near-Odessa-FL-33556/056437/.

 

Florida opens Quota Beverage License Drawing Period

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco announced the opening of the 2025 Quota Beverage License Drawing Period. 

Each year, new quota beverage licenses are issued to businesses in counties with an increased population, with one new license created for every population increase of 7,500 in each county. This creates an accessible pathway for businesses to become licensed to serve a full range of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine and spirits.

The drawing includes 52 new licenses in 26 counties, including Pasco and Hillsborough.

Applications are open through Oct. 1 at 5 p.m. on DBPR’s online portal at myfloridalicense.com. Entrants selected will be awarded the right to apply for a license in their county.

 

Florida secures 15th new insurer since reforms

TALLAHASSEE – Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia and Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky announced Viceroy Preferred Insurance Company as Florida’s newest property and casualty insurer. 

Viceroy is domiciled in Florida and approved to write homeowners’ multi-peril and dwelling fire policies. It is the 15th insurer to enter the market since Florida’s legislative reforms.

“Florida’s insurance market continues to strengthen and improve because of the legislative reforms we have put in place,” Ingoglia said. 

Since January 2024, 29 companies filed for rate decreases and 44 requested no change, while Florida had the nation’s lowest average increase.

 

Program helps non-custodial parents

TALLAHASSEE – FloridaCommerce announced $7 million available through the Non-Custodial Parent Employment Program. 

Eligible organizations may apply to provide employment and training services that help non-custodial parents gain self-sufficiency.

Funds will be administered through Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Community Services. Applications are due at 5 p.m. Sept. 4.

Eligible applicants include governmental entities, nonprofits, tribal governments and local workforce development boards. NCPEP supports job search, training, parenting skills and financial literacy.

On the web: floridajobs.org

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Leading Ladies Network event and ribbon cutting. 

  • Gillian Guadagnino, associate director of development for athletics for the University of South Florida, talks about “Stampede for Women: Empowering Female-Student Athletes” during the next Leading Ladies Network event from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Sept. 5 at USF Credit Union, 20610 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa. Registration costs $15. Register in advance. 
  • The chamber hosts a ribbon cutting for Ivybrook Academy from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 10 at Tampa Palms, 5392 Primrose Lake Circle, Tampa. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Medical Roundtable, Hudson Business and Brochure Exchange and two ribbon cuttings. 

  • Leaders discuss health care topics during the Medical Roundtable from 8 to 9 a.m. Sept. 4 at Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, 6600 Madison St., New Port Richey. Register in advance. 
  • The chamber hosts the Hudson Business and Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 4 at Vitality Living Baypoint Village, 7927 State Road 52, Hudson. Free for members. A taco bar lunch costs $14. Register in advance. This is a new event that will take place on the first Thursday of the month. 
  • The chamber hosts a ribbon cutting for Riverside Recovery of Tampa from 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 9 at 5079 Little Road, New Port Richey. The ribbon will be cut at 10 a.m. Register in advance. 
  • The chamber hosts a ribbon cutting for Healthy Start Coalition of Pasco County from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 10 at 7241 Little Road, New Port Richey. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will host Coffee & Networking events.

  • Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 10 a.m. Sept. 5 at the chamber’s Zephyrhills location, 38550 5th Ave., or 8 to 9 a.m. Sept. 9 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. The Zephyrhills event includes remarks by Brent Lee of The Skilled Development Team. Register in advance. 

Visit eastpascochamber.org for details about the chamber and events. 

 

Fire Academy grads ready for next rung on career ladder

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Pasco-Hernando State College Fire Academy cadets train at the fire tower and training facility. Photo courtesy of PHSC

DADE CITY – Pasco-Hernando State College recognized 34 Fire Academy graduates with firefighter certificates during a ceremony Aug. 14 at the East Campus.

Cadets completed 16 weeks of training, preparing them for their upcoming state-administered practical and written exams. 

Austin Linville was named class leader and received the Instructor Pick award.

“Each cohort picks its own class motto, and one of our Scottish cadets, Alexander Buchanan, introduced the phrase, ‘It’ll be a skoosh,’ with skoosh meaning easy,” said William Lingo, program coordinator and retired fire chief. “The cadets took this motto and pushed forward through their training to get to their graduation on Thursday.”

Cadets had the opportunity to train and learn using PHSC’s newest state-of-the-art fire tower and training facility, spread over 4,280 square feet. The tower is 50 feet tall and spans five stories. 

The facility includes burn prop stations for training, two classrooms, pre-engineered covered parking and two 40-foot storage containers for training equipment.

“PHSC is proud to celebrate the dedication and resilience of these graduates, who have chosen a path of service, sacrifice and strength,” PHSC President Eric Hall said. “As our communities face increasing demands on public safety services, these well-trained professionals will play a critical role. Their success reflects PHSC’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality, hands-on training that supports workforce development and strengthens our region.”

 

 

Camp Idlewild honors Wendy’s for support

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Camp Idlewild of Florida presents the Making a Difference Award to Wendy’s. Photo courtesy of Wendy Neal

LAND O’ LAKES – Camp Idlewild of Florida presented an appreciation plaque to Wendy’s, located at 7775 Land O’ Lakes Blvd in Connerton, recognizing their generous support throughout the summer.

Wendy’s played a key role in making summer camp memorable by providing dinner for campers and staff every Sunday night, which was the opening night of each session. The restaurant’s generosity extended beyond the summer as they also donated meals for select weekend camps during the year.

“This partnership made such a difference for our campers,” said Wendy Neal, camp director at Camp Idlewild. “The first night of camp sets the tone for the week, and knowing we could provide a delicious meal, thanks to Wendy’s, helped make every session start with excitement and comfort.”

Camp Idlewild, located in Land O’ Lakes, provides innovative camping experiences for children and young adults with special needs. With support from local partners like Wendy’s, the camp continues to create opportunities for growth, friendship and confidence for its campers.

Visit campidlewildofflorida.com or call 813-996-1226 for more information about Camp Idlewild or to learn how to support its mission.

Health & Wellness (9/3/25): Report highlights opioid challenges 

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Report highlights state’s opioid challenges 

TAMPA – A new report from Mental Health America shows progress in the fight against opioids but underscores urgent challenges facing Florida.

MHA commissioned the study, “The State of Opioid Overdose and Response in the U.S. 2025.” The report shows that while overdose deaths fell 27% nationwide between 2023 and 2024, Florida ranked just 38th in its public health response.


The lack of response is reflected in more than 1.2 million Floridians who needed treatment for substance use in 2024 but did not receive it.


“Florida has some of the strongest recovery residence networks in the nation,” said Carrie Zeisse, president and CEO of Tampa Bay Thrives, an MHA affiliate. “But too many people still fall through the cracks when it comes to prevention and access to care. We must turn those gaps into opportunities for change.”

On the web: tampabaythrives.org

 

Busy parents can take free childbirth class

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, 4211 Van Dyke Road, is holding a free, one-day Comprehensive Childbirth Class designed for busy parents-to-be who want a presentation that covers the basics. 

The free class takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 27 in a hospital classroom. 

The hospital’s RN-certified childbirth educators will teach new parents about labor and birth and provide an overview of breastfeeding and newborn care. The class includes a tour of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North’s labor and delivery rooms, mother and baby rooms, and new NICU.
Register by visiting BayCareEvents.org and choosing “St. Joseph’s Hospital-North” in the “Facility/Location” filter and scrolling to the Sept. 27 class listing. Call 855-314-8352 and press the “2” at the prompt to register by phone. 

 

Hospital donates CPR kit to school

DAVENPORT – AdventHealth Heart of Florida and the American Heart Association donated a CPR & First Aid Anywhere Training Kit to Davenport High School. 

The kit trains 10 to 20 people at once using manikins, kneel mats and DVDs.

“We are proud to partner with the American Heart Association to provide this kit to Davenport High School to help train the next generation of lifesavers,” AdventHealth Polk Market President and CEO Tim Clark said. “Knowing how to properly perform CPR and use an AED can help empower these young people to know what to do in an emergency and potentially save someone’s life.”

 

BayCare makes PEOPLE list

CLEARWATER – BayCare Health System ranked No. 17 nationally on the 2025 PEOPLE Companies that Care list. It is BayCare’s fifth time on the list and the highest-ranked health care system in the U.S. this year.

“BayCare’s 33,000-plus team members are our greatest asset. Every day, they deliver compassionate care within our hospital walls and throughout the communities of West Central Florida to improve the health of all we serve,” said BayCare President and CEO Stephanie Conners. “I’m grateful to each and every team member who contributes to BayCare’s extraordinary culture and to the exceptional care and outreach that made it possible for us to be named to this list.”

 

AdventHealth opens Pulmonology and Critical Care office

LAKE WALES – AdventHealth opened a new Pulmonology and Critical Care office Aug. 27 at 1255 State Road 60 E., Suite 300. 

Dr. Daniela Trelles and Dr. Valeria Trelles will treat patients with respiratory and critical care needs. The office has four exam rooms and offers procedures such as EKGs and spirometry.

“We are delighted to be part of this community and to have the opportunity to help guide patients through their conditions toward a better quality of life,” Daniela Trelles said.

Valeria Trelles added: “We strive to provide patients with clear, understandable information about their conditions and treatment options, empowering them to manage their health and make informed decisions.”

Middle school elective opens doors to opportunities

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Shelby Langford, who is nearly 16, gained hands-on agricultural experience by helping raise a pig. Photo courtesy of UF/IFAS

Shelby Langford never imagined agriculture would become a focus of her teenage years.

It all began with a middle school elective, “Agricultural Foundations.” She chose the class but had few expectations. What started as a routine course exposed her to opportunities that would shape her future. Before long, agriculture evolved from a passing interest to a passion.

She started cooking for herself and tending a garden at home. Her curiosity deepened to commitment when, before officially enrolling at Gaither High School in Tampa, she volunteered with the school’s agriculture department. The summer before she started high school, Shelby volunteered to show the school’s Future Farmers of America chapter pig. From early mornings at the barn to late-night feedings, she gave her all to raising a pig while learning about swine care and behavior.

“That experience lit a fire in her – a deep desire to continue learning and growing within the agricultural world, especially within the swine industry,” said her mother, Marisa Langford.

In March, Shelby was accepted into the Florida 4-H “Hog & Ham” program, part of the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Hog & Ham takes selected participants through the process of pork production and teaches food security.

This month, she went to the main UF campus in Gainesville to learn about meat production.

Hog & Ham, 4-H, FFA, fairs – they’re all part of a journey filled with “opportunities,” which seems to be one of Shelby’s favorite words.

“It’s cool learning about all the different opportunities that agriculture has to offer,” she said, citing, among other things, Ag Day on the Hill, where FFA members go to the state Capitol. “You learn about all the cool things you can do if you pursue agriculture, including lobbying legislators.”

Over the past two years, Shelby has taken advantage of opportunities offered through UF/IFAS Extension programs.

She’s attended meat science and livestock judging clinics, interacted with UF/IFAS faculty and explored the depth and diversity of Florida’s agricultural industry.

Whitney Elmore, director of UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County, praised Shelby for how she sets an example for others.

“4-H participants (and their families) work very hard on their projects, putting a significant amount of time, money and energy into learning by doing,” Elmore said. “Shelby exemplifies the core values of 4-H: head, heart, hands, health.”

It’s not always easy participating in 4-H and FFA, but it’s well worth the effort, Shelby said. The biggest challenge is “getting started.”

“You have to navigate things on your own,” she said. “There’s a lot of pre-planning that goes into everything. It helps you with time management. You have to find opportunities. Some are a little more hidden than others.”

 

Bank executive chairs Crisis Center of Tampa Bay board

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David Feeman

TAMPA – The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has appointed David Feeman as the chair of the nonprofit’s board of directors.

Feeman serves as senior vice president, middle market relationship manager at the Bank of Tampa, where he has worked since 2005. He’s held roles such as treasurer and chair-elect since joining the board in 2013. 

“I am honored to serve as board chair for an organization that plays such a crucial role in the well-being of our community,” Feeman said. “The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s mission deeply resonates with me, and I look forward to working alongside the board and staff to expand our impact and ensure that no one in our community has to face crisis alone.”

Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, described Feeman as a “remarkable advocate” for the nonprofit since he joined the board of directors. 

“I am eager to collaborate with him as board chair to ensure our community continues to receive help, hope and healing through our essential services,” Reynolds said. 

The nonprofit offers evidence-based programs designed to meet community needs at times of crisis and trauma: 

  • Corbett Trauma Center (trauma counseling, sexual assault survivor services and recovery navigation).
  • Gateway Contact Center (988 and 211: suicide prevention, crisis counseling, and information and referral services).
  • Success 4 Kids & Families (support for families coping with behavioral health challenges).
  • TransCare (911 basic life support ambulance service, behavioral health transport, basic and advanced life support interfacility transportation and community paramedicine).

The board supports the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay by advocating for the organization, setting and enforcing policies, helping raise resources, and providing oversight.

Other board officers include: 

  • Immediate Past Chair: Mellissa Longo, associate general counsel at Clarvida.
  • Treasurer: Jamie Klingman, broker and owner at The Exit Strategy Co.
  • Secretary: Lisa McGlynn, partner at Fisher and Phillips LLP.

On the web: crisiscenter.com

Chalk Talk (9/3/25): PHSC Foundation receives $60K donation

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PHSC Foundation receives $60,000 donation

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation will use a $60,000 gift from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation for scholarships, the Bobcat Pantries and events.

The pantries, located at five campuses, provide supplemental food and various hygiene products to ensure students who need assistance have their basic needs met. The gift will also provide sponsorship support for several PHSC events, including All College Day, the foundation’s Performing Arts Center Series and the annual Golf Tournament.

“The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation’s generosity directly supports student success, and investments like these reflect a deep commitment to student well-being and the transformative power of higher education,” PHSC President Eric Hall said. 

Suncoast Credit Union founded its foundation to promote the education, health and emotional well-being of children in the community. Each time a Suncoast member uses their debit or credit card, the credit union donates two cents to the foundation to fund local initiatives. The foundation has donated over $45 million since its inception in 1990.

“Being able to support education, which is the root of our long credit union history, is a privilege as well as our mission,” said Jeff Kunberger, executive director of Suncoast Credit Union Foundation.

 

SGU president offers advice to new Lions

  1. LEO – As a senior and Student Government Union president, Luigi Meschino shared some tips for newcomers at Saint Leo University. 

“Let your guard down and get to know the faculty and staff who make this place special,” said Meschino, a political science major. 

As someone who is involved on campus, he encouraged new (and returning) students to participate in events, clubs and organizations. 

“Try new and different things,” he said. “You may be shy or too occupied doomscrolling on Instagram but join your community by attending an athletics event or come to an SGU meeting. Lastly, but the most important thing I had to learn on my own is that being human is hard. You must find time to balance your health, relationships, and academics; otherwise, you will burn out. I pray you enjoy your time here, and I wholeheartedly wish you all the best.”

 

Quick Hits

  • The Florida Association of School Counselors named Debbie Painter as the School Based Administrator of the Year.
  • Hillsborough County Public Schools has named the new technical college in Plant City. It is now called Rick Lott Technical College after the former mayor. 
  • Hillsborough County Public Schools paid tribute to the late Tony Saladino, a longtime educator and baseball ambassador in the Tampa Bay area. Saladino passed away at age 89 on Aug. 19. 

 

PBR’s Premier Tour returning to Tampa after 13-year hiatus

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TAMPA – The wait is over for bull riding fans in the Tampa Bay area. 

For the first time since 2012, PBR (Professional Bull Riders) will bring its elite Unleash The Beast to Tampa. The best riders and baddest bulls in the world will meet on Jan. 23 and 24, 2026 at Benchmark International Arena.

Organizers describe the event as “the most unpredictable and explosive 8 seconds in sports wrapped in a rock-show, family-friendly production.”

The trip to Tampa will be the sixth event of the 18-event 2026 Unleash The Beast season.

Over two days, the riders and bulls will go head-to-head with the action starting at 7:45 p.m. Friday night and continuing 6:45 p.m. Saturday to announce an event champion.

When the tour last came to Tampa in 2012, Guilherme Marchi walked away the event champion, edging out second-place Chase Outlaw by three-fourths of a point, riding three bulls on the weekend. Marchi, the 2008 PBR World Champion, would go on to become the most prolific rider in PBR history, registering 635 qualified rides.

Tickets are available at PBR.com and ticketmaster.com. PBR Rewards members can call 800-732-1727.

 

By the Numbers

  • 750 tons of dirt (1.5 million pounds) are brought in to transform Benchmark International Arena into a bull-riding mecca.
  • The dirt is a special clay-sand blend establishing a firm enough surface for the bulls to buck hard but soft enough so that every rider is not injured when thrown like a rag doll.
  • It takes seven semi-trucks to haul in the equipment for the event.
  • A crew of about 30 works around the clock to prepare the venue.
  • Over 50 of the rankest bucking bulls on the planet will be on site.
  • The average PBR bull weighs 1,800 pounds. The average bull rider? Just 140 pounds.