The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

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Health & Wellness (9/24/25): Pasco Extension kicks off wellness program

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Pasco Extension kicks off wellness program

PASCO COUNTY –  UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County is now offering Let’s Walk Florida, a six-week online program designed to improve your health through physical activity.  

Walk or exercise anywhere you choose, while tracking your progress for accountability and support through a virtual community.

Walking reduces the risk of heart disease and some cancers, improves blood pressure, blood sugar levels, energy, mood and more. Everyone is welcome to participate in the program aimed at promoting physical wellness among Floridians.

The program spans from Sept. 29 to Nov. 12. Register by Sept. 29 at mypas.co/LetsWalkFlorida2025 

Choose from health and maintenance tracks within the program, including optional Wednesday check-ins with dietitians and personal trainers, while pursuing goals on your own time. 

Program registration costs $10. All ages are welcome. Team up with friends, register solo or ask to be matched with a group. Then get ready to compete for prizes and connect with others in the community.

 

Pasco County opens Dade City Senior Center

DADE CITY – Pasco County Senior Services has opened the new Dade City Senior Center.

“We love our senior community,” said Brian Hoben, community services director. “The new look and location opens the door for our seniors looking for a convenient place to engage with others in food, fun and fellowship.”

The Dade City Senior Center operates from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 13900 4th St., Dade City. It replaces the 15th Street location in Dade City.

Adults 60 and older can register for activities and a free weekday meal by calling 352-521-5151. 

The center offers several activities, including arts and crafts, bingo, birthday celebrations, games, holiday celebrations, karaoke, live entertainment and volunteering.

On the web: mypas.co/SeniorServices.

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding, newborn support 

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North offers free in-person support groups and classes during October about breastfeeding and newborn care. 

The events are open to all no matter which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your baby. All events are held in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North classrooms, 4211 Van Dyke Road.

  • Breastfeeding Support Group: For breastfeeding mothers, their babies and one support person (grandmother, aunt, etc.) The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. Offered Thursdays, Oct. 9 and 23, 10 to 11 a.m.
  • Understanding Your Newborn: Provides information to the expectant mother and one support person about many aspects of safe infant care, including feeding, diapering, bathing, signs of illness and cues and communication. Offered Thursday, Oct. 9, 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Understanding Breastfeeding: Provides information to the expectant mother and her support person about breastfeeding basics, skin-to-skin contact, tips for returning to work and when to call a health care provider or lactation consultant. Offered Thursday, Oct. 23, 1 to 5 p.m.

 

BayCare makes workplace ranking

CLEARWATER – Great Place To Work and Fortune magazine have selected BayCare Health System for the 2025 Fortune Best Workplaces in Health Care list, ranking No. 22 in the large category. 

This marks BayCare’s ninth consecutive year earning a spot on the national list.

“To be named one of the best workplaces in the health care industry for nine straight years is not only an incredible honor, but a powerful validation of our people-first approach to health care,” said Stephanie Conners, BayCare president and CEO. “I’m so proud of our team members for making BayCare the best place to work, receive and provide care.”

Great Place To Work determines its lists using its proprietary Trust Index Survey to evaluate and certify thousands of organizations. 

 

AdventHealth hospital earns Best Hospitals Award

DAVENPORT – AdventHealth Heart of Florida in Davenport has been named among U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Hospitals edition as a High Performing hospital for Knee Replacement. 

This is the highest distinction a hospital can earn as part of U.S. News’ Best Hospitals Procedures & Conditions ratings. It is the second year in a row that AdventHealth Heart of Florida earned this award.

“This distinction reflects the dedication of our entire care teams and their commitment to delivering exceptional orthopedic care and ensuring our patients receive the highest quality outcomes to help live pain-free, active lives,” said Dr. Angela Alfaro, interim chief medical officer.

 

BayCare building emergency care facility

CLEARWATER – BayCare is expanding access to its emergency care with plans to build a new freestanding emergency department in Davenport.

The 12,000-square-foot facility at the southeast corner of U.S. 27 and Ridgewood Lakes Boulevard will house 15 spaces for treating patients.

In September 2024, BayCare announced plans for a freestanding emergency department in partnership with Metro Development Group’s master-planned Connected City community in Wesley Chapel, followed in December by plans for another location in South Lakeland. Last month, BayCare also unveiled plans for a facility in Valrico.

“At a freestanding emergency department, we can often see patients within just a few minutes of their arrival,” said Todd Jones, BayCare’s chief strategy officer and chief ambulatory services officer. “We know that patients are seeking out that level of convenience and efficiency for their care.”

The Davenport freestanding emergency department will have its primary affiliation with Winter Haven Hospital. 

Construction of the freestanding emergency department in Davenport is slated to begin in 2026.

 

Bill seeks to reauthorize transplant programs

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) was part of a bipartisan group of lawmakers to introduce legislation to reauthorize more than $280 million over five years for national cord blood and bone marrow transplant programs.

These initiatives provide lifesaving treatments for patients with leukemia, lymphoma and other serious diseases. The Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act of 2025 (H.R. 5160) ensures two federally funded programs do not expire at the end of Fiscal Year 2026. Specifically, the bill would:

  • Reauthorize the C.W. Bill Young Cell Transplantation Program at $33 million annually for five years.
  • Reauthorize the National Cord Blood Inventory at $23 million annually for five years.

“These programs represent our nation’s unwavering commitment to advancing life-saving medical research and providing hope to millions of Americans battling chronic and life-threatening illnesses,” said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. “By reauthorizing this legislation, we ensure continued federal support and oversight for adult stem cell research conducted under the highest ethical and scientific standards.”

 

Chalk Talk (9/24/25):University points to resources for birthworkers

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Raising Phoenix Temple University points to resources

WESLEY CHAPEL – Raising Phoenix Temple University held a free public workshop Sept. 16 at SMARTstart – The Grove at Wesley Chapel to help residents secure tuition support for doula certification and other vocational training programs. 

“People with a calling to serve as birthworkers or community wellness professionals often assume education is out of reach,” said Sheree D. Williams, principal chief and founding mother of RPTU. “Our goal is to show them that practical funding paths exist and how to use them.” 

RPTU is recognized by the Florida Department of Education’s Commission of Independent Education and accredited by the International Metaphysical Practitioners Association. 

The university offers live, online, and on-demand programs designed to provide flexibility for modern learners. 

Both RPTU and Williams are active members of SMARTstart, Pasco County’s entrepreneur and business incubator program, furthering their commitment to local economic development and community education. 

On the web: therptu.com  

 

Venue welcomes field trips

LAND O’ LAKES – Looking for a fun and engaging field trip where your students can discover a world of sustainable innovation and sustainable living, witness regenerative agriculture, renewable energy and recycling? Consider Rosebud Continuum, located at 22843 Hale Road. 

Rosebud Continuum provides an environmental science-focused field trip for students in grades K-12, where they learn about diverse topics regarding sustainability. Demonstration projects are available for each topic.

Rosebud’s living laboratories provide students with authentic learning experiences that connect academic concepts to real-world environmental challenges and solutions.

Field trips can be tailored to specific topics to enhance a grade’s curriculum. 

Email for details.

On the web: rosebudcontinuum.net

 

Students can enter Florida Bar competition

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Bar has launched its annual High School Appellate Brief Writing & Moot Court Competition, giving students a chance to gain firsthand experience in law and advocacy. 

Sponsored by the Bar’s Law Related Education Committee, the event is open to teams statewide who draft briefs and present arguments on a fictitious case. 

“This event not only provides an in-depth understanding of legal processes but also enhances critical thinking, research and public speaking skills,” said C. Erica White, competition subcommittee chair. 

Top teams will argue before the Florida Supreme Court.

Register at floridabar.org/flmootcourt

 

Student Achievement

  • Oumoukalcoum Seini Tahirou, of Lutz, earned the Master of Science in Psychology from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia. 

Tampa Theatre’s Halloween series turns lucky 13

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Tampa Theatre offers way more than a few screenings of scary movies during the Halloween season. Photo courtesy of Tampa Theatre

TAMPA – Not to sound superstitious, but it doesn’t get much luckier than bringing back Tampa Theatre’s signature Halloween series, A Nightmare on Franklin Street, for its 13th year.

To celebrate, the theater will host an all-new lineup of classic horror films, creepy cult favorites, “Mummy & Me” family-friendly films, live shows and ghost tours on select dates all month long.

 

Ghosts of Tampa Theatre Tours

Who was the man in seat 308? Where did Robert Lanier tear his final ticket? And what has led to Tampa Theatre being known as one of the most haunted buildings in town? 

Hear stories of Tampa Theatre’s ghostly guests, preternatural patrons and eternal employees in a two-hour tour. Tickets cost $15 for general admission (free for theater members) at these times: 

  • 10 a.m. Oct. 2, 16 and 30.
  • 10 a.m. Oct. 3, 24 and 31.
  • 2 p.m. Oct. 6, 13, 20 and 27.
  • 10 a.m. Oct. 7.
  • 2 p.m. Oct. 8, 22 and 29.
  • 10 a.m. Oct. 25.

Guests who want to go beyond the stories and explore Tampa Theatre’s supernatural claims for themselves will have the opportunity to review previously collected video, photo and audio evidence, experiment with professional-grade equipment and investigate alongside the experienced researchers from Genesis Paranormal Services during the Late Night, Lights Off Paranormal Investigation at 10 p.m. Oct. 17. Tickets cost $50 ($40 for theater members).

 

Stage & scream … er screen

This year’s Nightmare series schedule offers three opportunities to witness spooky stories told live on Tampa Theatre’s historic stage:

  • On Oct. 18, Hokus Pokus Live! conjures up a wickedly spoopy, fully scripted theatrical experience at 8 p.m. starring Ginger Minj (global drag superstar, actress, comedian, singer and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” icon), Jujubee (“RuPaul’s Drag Race” and “DRAG: The Musical”), and Sapphira Cristál (“RuPaul’s Drag Race”) as the legendary Sanderson Sisters and featuring Landon Cider (“Dragula”) as Billy. With hauntingly hilarious comedy, powerhouse vocals and a dash of magic, this live spectacle brings the cult classic to the stage like never before. Tickets start at $59.50 plus applicable taxes and fees. This show is limited to adults.
  • Victorian Horror Troupe Phantasmagoria returns to Tampa Theatre at 2 p.m. Oct. 26 with a very special journey through the tales of iconic artist and author Edward Gorey in celebration of his 100th birthday year! Hauntingly whimsical tales like “The Gilded Bat” and “The Gashlycrumb Tinies” come to life through Phantasmagoria’s signature blend of storytelling, dance, puppetry, projections and original music. The show is recommended for ages 8 and older. Tickets cost $30 ($20 for theater members).
  • Cozy up under the movie palace’s iconic star-lit sky for an evening of Campfire Stories at 7 p.m. Oct. 28. The Suncoast Storytellers are back with a family-friendly program of PG tales appropriate for all ages (who don’t mind having a chill sent down their spine). Tickets cost $10 for general admission and free for theater members.

 

Mummy & Me

Up on the silver screen, “Mummy & Me” screenings, sponsored by Tampa Electric, give grown-ups the perfect opportunity to bring their young ghouls and goblins to an age-appropriate screening for free. 

Kids 12 and younger get in free. Everybody else pays $10 ($7 for theater members):

  • ”Kiki’s Delivery Service” (1989, Rated G) at 1:45 p.m. Oct. 4.
  • ”Haunted Mansion” (2023, Rated PG-13) at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 5
  • “Scooby-Doo” (2002, Rated PG) at 1:30 p.m. Oct. 19
  • “Hocus Pocus” (1993, Rated PG) at 3 p.m. Oct. 25

 

Specialty Screenings

The series is splattered with plenty of specialty screenings for adults, too, including:

  • A century ago, Lon Chaney made audiences scream out loud with his ghastly visage as the “Phantom of the Opera” (1925). At 7 p.m. Oct. 24, world-renowned soprano Juliet Petrus and Tampa Theatre’s own artist-in-residence, Steven Ball will accompany the silent suspense film with an original score on the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. Tickets cost $14.50 ($11.50 for theater members).
  • The theater welcomes back the Beyond Any Measure shadow cast for two screenings of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975) at 7 and 11 p.m. Oct. 25. Audience participation is encouraged, but leave the sticky/drippy props at home. Tickets cost $15 ($12 for theater members).
  • Once you’ve experienced “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” – be it for the first or 1,001st time – on Saturday night, come back Oct. 26 at 6 p.m. to learn where it all began. “Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror” (2025) is a joyful and wild ride through the tale of the cultural juggernaut. From its humble origins as a London fringe theater play, the new documentary tracks its meteoric rise, fall and resurrection to become the biggest cult film of all time, with intimate access to its creator Richard O’Brien and other major players such as Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon and Lou Adler. Tickets cost $12 ($9 for theater members).
  • October’s Big Picture series puts on its Halloween costume with Science Fiction Creature Feature films like “The Invisible Man,” “The Day the Earth Stood Still,” “Frankenstein,” “Doctor X” and “Forbidden Planet” every Wednesday evening. There are also anniversary screenings of “Prom Night” and “Scary Movie,” classic titles like “The Birds,” “Clue” and “An American Werewolf in London,” modern favorites like “Teen Witch,” “Tales from the Hood” and “The Conjuring,” and more – a total of 62 soul-shattering show times over the month-long series.

Times, titles and tickets are available now at the historic Franklin Street Box Office and online

at TampaTheatre.org/nightmare.

 

Woman’s club shows sweet gesture during 9/11

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Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club members gather outside Old Lutz School. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen
  • 003: Firefighters from Land O’ Lakes Fire Rescue Station 23 join Nancy Taylor in showing off their snack baskets. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen

 

 

Michelle Haskins, Nancy Taylor, Dee Knerr, Jean Olsen, Madeline McCulloh, Darlene Choe, Edna Gordon and Beth Nevel-Rader show off the snack baskets. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen

LUTZ – The Lutz-Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club honored first responders on Sept. 11 and remembered those lost Sept. 11, 2001 by waving flags in front of the Old Lutz School.

As part of a Civic Engagement Community Service Project, the club assembled eight snack baskets from member donations. These baskets were delivered to local fire stations in Lutz and Land O’ Lakes in appreciation of their dedicated service to the community.  

 

Fight for a Cause puts focus on men’s mental health

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WESLEY CHAPEL – September recognized nationally as Suicide Prevention Month, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for raising awareness around men’s mental health. 

In response, Dadz in Motion is hosting its inaugural fundraiser, Fight for a Cause, on Sept. 27, bringing together local fighters, families and the Tampa Bay community for an evening with a life-saving message.

Dadz in Motion points to statistics showing that men are less likely to seek help for depression and anxiety, yet they account for nearly four out of five suicide deaths in the U.S. 

Fight for a Cause is tackling this crisis head-on by combining the excitement of live sparring matches with meaningful access to mental health resources and community support.

“Too many men suffer in silence,” said LeAnn Flores, founder of Dadz in Motion. “This event is

about breaking the stigma, sparking conversations and showing men they are not alone. If even

one life is saved through awareness and connection, it’s a fight worth having.”

The evening will feature:

  • Sparring matches showcasing strength and resilience.
  • Community resource booths offering tools for mental health support.
  • Recognition of local mentors making a difference in men’s lives.
  • Opportunities to give back, with proceeds benefiting Dadz in Motion’s programs for

fathers and families.

Tickets are available at eventbrite.com. 

Dadz in Motion, a program of The Vecina Café Empowerment Center, uplifts men and fathers through mentorship, resources and events that encourage physical health, mental well-being, and family engagement.

Pasco County Public Works earns national recognition

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PASCO COUNTY – From filling potholes to cleaning coastlines, Pasco County’s Public Works team keeps the community running smoothly – so much so that it has earned national recognition.
The American Public Works Association has accredited Pasco County’s team. Pasco is only the seventh of Florida’s 67 counties to achieve this honor.
“This is transformational for Pasco County Public Works,” Director Jason Mickel said. “This APWA accreditation confirms the department has implemented the necessary tools and requirements to help us maintain the infrastructure that everyone in Pasco relies on every day.”
The accreditation requires departments to meet high standards in operations, planning and service delivery. It opens the door to top-tier education and training programs, along with access to a national network of public works professionals sharing the latest technologies and management strategies.
Assistant County Administrator Branford Adumuah launched the three-year accreditation journey during his previous tenure as public works director.
“This is an outstanding accomplishment for our public works team,” Adumuah said. “It’s an in-depth process, and we’re incredibly proud of our team’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in making Pasco County a great place to work and live.”
Pasco’s APWA accreditation is valid for four years, with semiannual updates required to ensure ongoing compliance and continued excellence.
On the web: mypas.co/publicworks

Liquor Depot supports Mike Alstott Family Foundation  

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Tampa Bay Bucs legend Mike Alstott gets a whiff of a Liquor Depot selection. Alstott has partnered with Liquor Depot to raise money for his foundation. Photo courtesy of Liquor Depot

 

Mike Alstott (left) earned six Pro Bowl and three All-Pro selections during his 11 years playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Alstott will sign bottles at Liquor Depot, owned by Trey Lawson (right). Photo courtesy of Liquor Depot

TAMPA – Liquor Depot owner Trey Lawson is once again teaming up with former Tampa Bay Buccaneers player Mike Alstott and the Mike Alstott Family Foundation for the store’s charity barrel fundraiser program.  

On Oct. 11, there will be 125 bottles available exclusively for purchase at the Liquor Depot Waters location (7304 W Waters Avenue). Alstott will be there for photo opportunities and signing bottles. Doors open at 9 a.m. The bottles are available first come, first serve with one bottle per person.

The barrel that Lawson and Alstot selected this year is a 12-year Penelope Estate Collection Rye. It will be available on Oct. 11 for $169.50 per bottle. (The number 50 to celebrate the Buccaneers 50th season). All of the proceeds from the sale of the bottles will support the Mike Alstott Family Foundation.  

Lawson, a lifelong Buccaneers fan, launched this charity barrel fundraiser back in 2021 because he is passionate about giving back and making a difference in the community.  

Since the start of this initiative, Liquor Depot has donated almost $40,000 to the Mike Alstott Family Foundation from 100% of the proceeds of three barrels they have selected together.  

Liquor Depot has six locations in Tampa. Photo courtesy of Liquor Depot

The goal of the fourth barrel is to raise over $10,000 from the community’s support.   

The Mike Alstott Family Foundation’s mission is to uplift the minds, hearts and spirits of families and children on their way to realizing their full potential through various events, assistance programs and celebrations.

“Single barrels are incredibly unique and once they are sold, they are gone forever, never to be replicated,” Lawson said. “We are excited to once again offer this exclusive barrel opportunity to help raise funds for the Mike Alstott Family Foundation and make a difference in our community.”

On the web: LiquorDepotTampa.com

 

Future Wesley Chapel hospital assembles leadership team

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WESLEY CHAPEL – Joe Delatorre, president of the future Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health Wiregrass Ranch Hospital, announced key hires in his senior leadership team ahead of the facility’s opening in spring 2026. 

These hires include Courtney Adams as chief operating officer, Tanya Knepp as chief financial officer, Suzan Dolezal as chief nursing officer and Richard Matte as assistant vice president of business development.

“These talented individuals bring key healthcare experience and proven success in their respective areas,” Delatorre said. “Our community deserves this kind of top-tier leadership, and that’s what they should continue to expect from this new hospital.”

Florida Medical Clinic Orlando Health Wiregrass Ranch Hospital is under construction and is scheduled to open in spring 2026 as a 102-bed hospital with the capacity to expand to 300 beds. The hospital will provide emergency and inpatient care for residents in Pasco and northern Hillsborough counties.

Adams will oversee operations at the new hospital, growing and developing the programs and services that will meet the needs of patients, physicians and team members. 

She has more than 25 years of operating room and surgical program experience and has been in hospital leadership in the Wesley Chapel area for the past 10 years. 

“Orlando Health’s new hospital in Wesley Chapel will bring a strong patient focus and a new opportunity to expand options for high-quality care in this region,” Adams said. “This growth in innovative healthcare solutions is set to meet the needs of our area, and I’m excited to be a part of this new team.”

Knepp will manage and protect the financial assets at this new hospital, maintaining a focus on patient outcomes and the fiscal health of the new facility. Knepp was the chief financial officer at a hospital in Riverview. She has worked in healthcare finance for more than 20 years across the state. 

“The investment that Orlando Health is placing in this state-of-the-art facility shows a very high level of commitment to this growing community,” Knepp said. 

Dolezal will provide leadership for activities, processes and policies that support high-quality patient care for nursing and other clinical teams. With more than 35 years of clinical nursing experience and 20 years of executive leadership experience, Dolezal has served as chief nursing officer at multiple hospitals in Arizona before moving to Orlando Health Melbourne Hospital in 2021. 

“Bringing this hospital to life has been a remarkable experience, especially seeing how patient-focused the facility is designed to be,” Dolezal said. 

Matte will develop new business endeavors, oversee innovation in new markets, and identify and manage new corporate partnerships. He was assistant vice president of business development at a hospital in Wesley Chapel.

“Wesley Chapel is one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant communities in Florida, and Orlando Health is making a meaningful commitment to its future,” said Matte. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside FMC and the Orlando Health team, and I look forward to building strong partnerships with our physicians, local businesses, and community leaders, all with the shared goal of delivering exceptional care and improving the lives of our patients and their families.”

 

Foundation honors Tampa Bay area officers

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The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation recognizes Deputy John Howes, of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, with Deputy of the Year honors. Photo courtesy Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation

CLEARWATER – The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation welcomed a sold-out crowd of more than 400 law enforcement officials, business leaders and supporters to its 10th Annual Gala Sept. 6 at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach.

The evening spotlighted heroes who have gone above and beyond in protecting and uplifting the Tampa Bay community, while also raising money to support the foundation’s mission. Since 2021, the Foundation has invested nearly $300,000 in training for officers and more than $400,000 in educational and police academy scholarships. Through these efforts, the foundation helps ensure Tampa Bay is protected by the best-trained, most committed professionals in law enforcement.

“Through the foundation, we give our law enforcement the tools, training and support they need,” said Greg Mertz, president of the Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation. “In turn, we help build trust, hope and safety for everyone who calls Tampa Bay home.”

Law enforcement winners were as follows: 

  • Deputy of the Year: Deputy John Howes, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

For risking his life to save a woman held hostage at knifepoint during a disturbance call, breaking through glass with his bare hands to stop the threat and rescue the victim. 

  • Officers of the Year: Officers Jeremiah Harvey, Landen Hopkins, Jason Sikoski, Benjamin Urdiales and Jeremy Wells, Tampa Police Department 

For working together to lift a car off a man trapped underneath, then administering CPR and medical aid that ultimately saved his life. 

  • Agent of the Year: Deputy U.S. Marshal Mario Price

For leading Operation Dragon Eye, the largest missing child recovery operation in U.S. Marshals history, rescuing 60 critically missing children and arresting eight suspects on charges including human trafficking.

  • Unsung Hero: Digital Forensic Consultant Jared Luce, Florida Department of Law Enforcement

A double amputee Marine veteran whose expertise has been instrumental in stopping a bomb threat, dismantling a global child exploitation ring and assisting with the arrest of an elementary school teacher charged with possession of child sexual abuse material.

  • Community Policing Program of the Year: Sgt. Jason Deary and Officers Patrick McGovern, Richard Van, Samantha Reeder, Karrie Landes, Jonathan Schweiger, Christian Exantus, James Fuchs Jr., and Luis Martinez, St. Petersburg Police Department

For leading a coordinated effort across multiple city departments that dismantled a persistent criminal enterprise tied to 10 unsafe properties.

Community winners were as follows: 

  • Business Partner of the Year: Mike Harting, 3 Daughters Brewing, St. Petersburg City Council

For his generosity and support of law enforcement, first responders, and the community, including donating venues, raising critical funds, supporting mentorship programs, providing storm shelter and feeding SWAT teams during major events.

  • Lifetime Achievement Award: Richard Gonzmart, Columbia Restaurant Group

For a lifetime of business leadership, philanthropy, and cultural stewardship in Tampa Bay. Gonzmart has dedicated more than 50 years to growing the Columbia brand, giving back millions through charitable causes and uplifting many organizations that support education, healthcare, law enforcement and the arts.

Last year’s gala raised more than $250,000 to support law enforcement across seven Tampa Bay counties and strengthen the communities they serve and protect. At this year’s gala, presenting sponsor Pepin Family Foundation is matching up to $100,000 of funds raised.

Business Digest (9/17/25): Credit union supports hospital foundation  

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Credit union supports hospital foundation  

TAMPA – GTE Financial is supporting the Tampa General Hospital Foundation in September through its Charity of the Month program. 

GTE Financial will promote member donations and host a Tailgate Touchdown Chili & Cornbread Cook-Off with employees. The organization will also offer month-long raffles.

“We are thrilled to support the foundation’s mission, focused on healing, teaching, innovating and caring for everyone, every day,” said Ashley Watson, chief of staff at GTE Financial. “This partnership gives us the opportunity to not only raise vital funds, but also to come together in celebration of one of the safest and most groundbreaking academic health systems in the United States.”

Each month, the not-for-profit credit union highlights a different employee-selected nonprofit, rallying members and the community to raise money and awareness. 

2025 beneficiaries include the Hispanic Professional Women’s Association, Rescue Pets of Florida, Tighten the Drag Foundation, YMCA, Junior Achievement, LifeLink, Boys & Girls Club, Best Buddies, Tampa General Hospital Foundation, American Heart Association, Crisis Center and Feeding Tampa Bay.

The program has donated more than $2.5 million to organizations since 2019. 

On the web: gtefinancial.org/about/charities

 

Libraries offer free job search services

PASCO COUNTY – Finding the right job can open doors to exciting opportunities, but navigating the interview process can be overwhelming.  Pasco County Libraries can help.

The library system is teaming up with CareerSource Pasco Hernando to provide free services, like interview preparation, to residents.

CareerSource Re-Employment Assistance is available from 10  a.m. to noon on the following days and venues: 

  • Centennial Park Library (every first Tuesday), 5740 Moog Road, Holiday.
  • Regency Park Library (every second Tuesday), 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey.
  • South Holiday Library (every third Tuesday), 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday.
  • Hugh Embry Library (\every fourth Tuesday), 14215 Fourth Street, Dade City. 

Bring a copy of your most recent resume, if you have one.

Employment experts can help visitors with employment searches, applications, resume writing and interview preparation. 

On the web: PascoLibraries.org.

 

Cafe at 1920 focus on coffee, grab-and-go breakfast

TAMPA – 1920, Ybor City’s premier destination for live music, art, and unforgettable events, has opened a new daytime concept, Cafe at 1920.

Previously home to a tenant-run Attic Cafe that closed on Aug. 17, the space has been transformed and is now operated by 1920 itself. Cafe at 1920 offers a thoughtfully crafted coffee and breakfast experience featuring Wuz Here Coffee, roasted locally, along with a focus on high-quality drinks and grab-and-go breakfast.

“1920 has always been about creating memorable experiences through art, music and community,” said Rachel Miele, general manager of 1920. “Now we’re bringing that same energy into the mornings with a coffee program and menu that reflect who we are.”

 

SBA launches loans for small manufacturers

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration launched its first loan program dedicated to America’s small manufacturers, which make up 98% of all U.S. manufacturers. 

The 7(a) Manufacturer’s Access to Revolving Credit Loan Program offers flexible working capital with minimal red tape.

“With 98% of American manufacturers classified as small businesses, the new MARC Loans represent a powerful source of targeted capital for those who are growing our nation’s production,” SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler said. 

Details are at www.sba.gov, with lender training available on SBA’s Training on Demand page.

 

Landscape Creations becomes U-Haul dealer

NEW PORT RICHEY – U-Haul Co. of Florida announced that Landscape Creations, 8030 Plathe Road, has signed on as a U-Haul neighborhood dealer. 

Owner Alyssa Burks said partnering with U-Haul will help meet mobility needs in Pasco County while supporting a locally owned business.

The business will offer U-Haul trucks, trailers, towing equipment and moving supplies.

Normal hours are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily. 

Call 727-848-6829 or visit uhaul.com to make a reservation. 

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a coffee social, Lunch N Learn and membership orientation.

  • Members engage in networking during a coffee social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Sept. 17 at Spinner Law Firm, 2418 Cypress Glen Drive, Wesley Chapel. 
  • The chamber hosts a Lunch N Learn session on the topic of “Home Plus Presentation” from noon to 1:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at North Tampa Bay Chamber, Suncoast Office 4 & Co., 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. Registration costs $15. Register in advance. 
  • New members go through an orientation session to learn about membership benefits from 9 to 10 a.m. Sept. 24 at North Tampa Bay Chamber, Wiregrass Mall, 28329 Paseo Drive, Suite #195, Wesley Chapel. Register in advance. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a brochure exchange, women’s programming and grand openings. 

  • The Professional Women in Business group meets for their monthly networking lunch from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 17 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance. 
  • Members exchange company literature during Trinity Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 18 at Seven Springs Golf and Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., Trinity. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Food costs $13. Register in advance. 
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of Hands On Healthcare and Chiropractic with a ribbon cutting from 1 to 3 p.m. Sept. 19 at 9782 Little Road, New Port Richey. The ribbon will be cut at 1:30 p.m. Register in advance. 
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of Pure Barre with a ribbon cutting at 9:30 a.m. Sept. 22 at 3130 Little Road, Trinity. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

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

  • New members learn the perks of membership during Core Connections from 8 to 9 a.m. Sept. 18 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce Dade City Office, 14112 8th St., Dade City. Register in advance. 
  • Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Sept. 19 at the chamber’s Zephyrhills location, 38550 5th Ave. Register in advance. 

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