The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Health & Wellness (8/6/25): AdventHealth continues expanding

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AdventHealth Tampa breaks ground on expansion

TAMPA – AdventHealth Tampa is expanding to meet the growing health care needs of the community with a new five-story, 100,000-square-foot medical office building and a seven-story parking garage that will add more than 1,100 parking spaces on the hospital’s campus.

AdventHealth Tampa leaders, local and state lawmakers and community stakeholders were scheduled to celebrate the expansion project with a groundbreaking ceremony on July 30, which was after the newspaper’s deadline. 

The medical office building will house a new state-of-the-art Cancer Center, expanded clinical care offerings and advanced specialty imaging services to support surgical planning and whole-person care. 

The expansion will also support the hospital’s growing graduate medical education programs, which include internal medicine, general surgery and OB/GYN.

“This project is about making it easier for patients to get the high-quality care they need, when and where they need it,” said Erik Wangsness, president and CEO of AdventHealth Tampa. “As our community grows, we’re committed to investing in services and spaces that improve access and meet people where they are. This new facility and garage will allow us to deliver care more efficiently while supporting our medical education mission.”

The medical office building is expected to open in fall 2026. The parking garage will be completed by summer 2026.

 

Evara Health wins workplace award

CLEARWATER – Evara Health, a not-for-profit healthcare provider in Pinellas County, has been named a 2025 Top Workplaces Industry Award winner by Energage. 

The launch of the Evara Health Institute has expanded training and education for staff and the community. Employee engagement and patient satisfaction scores have reached record highs. “This recognition is a reflection of the passion, resilience, and heart our employees bring to work every single day,” said Stephen Lytle, an executive at  Evara Health. “We proudly live our brand: Driven by purpose. Powered by people.”

Evara ranked No. 24 nationally among mid-sized healthcare employers in its first year earning the award.

 

AdventHealth hospitals host free health talk

ZEPHYRHILLS – AdventHealth Dade City and AdventHealth Zephyrhills are hosting a free talk on digestive health and wellness. 

Digestive health experts will discuss “Gut Check: Let’s Talk Digestion” from Noon to 1 p.m. Aug. 20 at The Genesis Community Center, 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills.

Call 877-534-3108 or visit AHZephyrhills.com/Events to register.

 

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North holds free childbirth class

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

New parents learn about labor and birth and get 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. 

The class takes place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 23 in a hospital classroom, 4211 Van Dyke Road. Register at BayCareEvents.org or by calling 855-314-8352, option 2.

 

Support groups help moms

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

The events are open to all no matter which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your children. Events are held in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, 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 Aug. 14 and 28, 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 Aug. 14, 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 Aug. 28, 1 to 5 p.m.

Register in advance by visiting BayCareEvents.org or calling 855-314-8352 and pressing the number “2” at the prompt.

Tax collector offices support MDA drive 

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DADE CITY – Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices will once again feature Pasco Fire Rescue’s Annual “Boot Drive” as the charitable giving organization for the month of August.   

All proceeds from this promotional effort will benefit the Muscular Dystrophy Association, which is a key organization supported by Pasco Fire Rescue/Pasco Firefighters Charities.

“The Firefighters Charities of Pasco is deeply appreciative of the continued partnership with the Tax Collector’s Office and Mr. Fasano, now in its fifth year, in support of the MDA Fill the Boot program,” said Lisa Brekke, director of Firefighters Charities of Pasco. “This collaboration significantly aids our efforts in raising substantial funds for this vital cause. Reflecting on this journey, which began in 1954, we recognize a legacy of compassion, resilience and generosity that has positively impacted countless lives. The MDA Fill the Boot program remains a beacon of hope for individuals affected by neuromuscular diseases, demonstrating that united communities can achieve profound and lasting change.”

Fasano said it was an honor to assist Pasco Fire Rescue with the annual MDA Fill the Boot drive. 

 “Over the past several years our staff and a very generous community have come together to support this important organization,” Fasano said. “Memories of the late Jerry Lewis’ efforts on behalf of the MDA, as well as his annual Labor Day telethon that was a staple of so many people’s holiday weekend, are something I recall with fondness.  It is truly a blessing that we can devote an entire month to raising funds to assist in research and treatment for individuals afflicted with this dreaded disease.”

Donations (“filling the boot”) can be made at any of the five tax collector locations in Pasco County: 

  • East Pasco Government Center (Room 100), 14236 6th Street, Dade City.
  • West Pasco Government Center (Room 120), 8731 Citizens Drive, New Port Richey.
  • Gulf Harbors, 4720 U.S. 19, New Port Richey.
  • Land O’ Lakes, 4135 Land O’Lakes Blvd., Land O’Lakes.
  • Wesley Chapel, 4610 Pet Lane, C 101, Lutz.

The tax collector’s charitable giving arm Pasco TC Gives has a webpage through which donations can be made online: https://www.govhub.com/fl-pasco/tc-gives/donate Donations may also be mailed to: Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office, P.O. Box 276, Dade City FL 33526-0276.

Call Lisa Brekke, director of Firefighters Charities of Pasco at 727-366-9622 for more information about Pasco Fire Rescue/ Pasco Firefighters Charities. 

On the web: pascotaxes.com  

 

Chalk Talk (8/6/25): Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

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Saint Leo grad heading to Italy 

Paul Vitaliti has made the most of his time at Saint Leo University, having graduated summa cum laude to being admitted to a global arts management program in Milan, Italy, 

A 2025 graduate with a bachelor’s degree in theater, Vitaliti also completed minors in English and art, and was an active member of the Honors Program. He’ll continue his studies through the Global Master in Performing Arts Management at Politecnico Milano, in collaboration with the renowned Teatro alla Scala and Teatro Piccolo.

At Saint Leo, Vitaliti served as president of Alpha Psi Omega Theatre Honor Society and founded the Italian Trivia and Language Intracultural Association. He was involved in University Ministry, LEAD Scholars and multiple honor societies. As a resident assistant, he was named RA of the Year and received the Student Affairs core value award for personal development.

His senior Honors project, The Backstage Pass, included writing, producing and directing the original play “The Circus Comes to Town.” 

Vitaliti credits Saint Leo for helping him grow as a leader and artist. 

“My favorite memories revolve around how much of an impact I’ve been able to make,” he said.

 

Saint Leo appoints board leadership

ST. LEO – The Saint Leo University board of trustees announced new board officer appointments.

Noel Boeke, a partner at the law firm Holland & Knight, will lead the 27-member board as chair. He has served on the board since 2010.

Iskra Sbraccia, head of sanctions screening operations at Google in Chicago and CEO of I Am Spark in Tampa, will serve as vice chair. Sbraccia has served on the board since 2021 and is a past president of the Saint Leo University Alumni Association.

Thamir A.R. Kaddouri Jr., managing partner at TAMPALAW, will serve as secretary. Kaddouri is a past president of its alumni association.

“Their professional expertise and long history of serving the university will allow us to quickly make strides forward to support our students and community in new and greater ways,” said James DeTuccio, interim chief operating officer and chief financial officer. .

 

Governor announces Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

PANAMA CITY BEACH – Gov. Ron DeSantis announced the return of Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which will run from Aug. 1 to 31, giving families a full month of savings on essential school supplies.

The Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday includes exemptions for:

  • School supplies selling for $50 or less: Binders, Lunch boxes, Notebooks, Pens and pencils
  • Clothing, footwear, and apparel priced at $100 or less: Backpacks, Pants, Shoes, Shirts and Sweaters.
  • Learning aids selling for $30 or less: Flashcards, Interactive Books and Puzzles.
  • Personal computers and accessories priced at $1,500 or less (for noncommercial home or personal use): Flash drives, headphones, Laptops and Printers.

“By cutting taxes, empowering parents, and growing our economy, we’re making it easier for people to live, work, and thrive in the Free State of Florida,” DeSantis said. 

Visit FloridaRevenue.com/BackToSchool for more information and to view lists of qualifying items.

 

Student Achievements

  • Ronak Agarwal, of Tampa, earned the distinction of Faculty Honors for the spring semester at the Georgia Institute of Technology in Atlanta, Georgia. Agarwal earned a 4.0 academic average for the semester. 
  • Rebecca Bach, of Lutz, graduated with a Bachelor of Science, Cum Laude in the Honors College at Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri. Bach earned a GPA of at least 3.5 to graduate with honors.
  • Leroy Forbes, of Lutz, earned an Associate of Arts from the University of Maryland Global Campus in Adelphi, Maryland.
  • Jalen Stevens, of Lutz, Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity Technology from the University of Maryland Global Campus in Adelphi, Maryland. Stevens graduated Summa Cum Laude and made the President’s List

 

Kampgrounds of America shares creative spins on s’mores

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National S’mores Day celebrates on Aug. 10 the classic campfire dessert featuring chocolate, marshmallows and graham crackers. 

The experts at Kampgrounds of America offer fun, easy swaps for unique, elevated reinterpretations of the classic camping treat.

  • Rice Krispies Treat S’more: Double the marshmallow goodness by substituting graham crackers with Rice Krispies Treats.
  • Peanut Butter Cup S’more: Peanut butter lovers will devour this twist on the classic s’mores recipe. Simply replace the chocolate bar with a peanut butter cup.
  • Sweet & Salty S’more: This is a favorite of caramel lovers. Drizzle caramel and flaky sea salt on top of your toasted marshmallow for an unforgettable mixture of sweet and salty.
  • Strawberry S’more: If you love chocolate and fruit together, add fresh strawberries. Classic s’mores also taste great with peaches.
  • Peppermint Patty S’more: Add a refreshing minty flavor to your favorite fireside treat by swapping out the chocolate with a peppermint patty or Andes Creme de Menthe Thin Mints. You can also substitute graham crackers with Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies.
  • No-Chocolate S’more: Use bananas instead of chocolate for lots of gooey goodness.
  • The Elvis: Isn’t everything better with bacon? Add banana, bacon and a peanut butter cup to your graham crackers and marshmallow.
  • Mississippi Mud Pie: Swap the chocolate bar for chocolate pudding. Top with pecans and a dollop of whipped cream for a down-home creamy treat.

Other easy swaps:

  • Replace honey graham crackers with chocolate grahams, cinnamon grahams, chocolate covered grahams, peanut butter sandwich cookies, chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal cookies, peanut butter cookies, coconut cookies, shortbread or pretzels.
  • Replace the chocolate bar with white chocolate, caramel-filled chocolate, salted caramel-filled chocolate, peanut butter, jam, almond butter, lemon curd, toasted coconut or hard-frozen ice cream.

Kampgrounds of America is the largest network of privately owned campgrounds with more than 500 locations. 

On the web: KOA.com

 

Business Digest (8/6/25): Vinik Sports Group hosting hiring event

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Vinik Sports Group to host part-time hiring event

TAMPA – Vinik Sports Group will host a hiring event to fill positions for the Tampa Bay Lightning, AMALIE Arena and Yuengling Center.

The company will be hiring for a number of open part-time positions in the fields of security and parking. Some positions have openings for morning, event and overnight.

The hiring event takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 12 at Cigar City Brewing Taproom Downtown, 375 Channelside Drive. Interested applicants are asked to arrive and enter the taproom off the main plaza area at AMALIE Arena. Candidates can access complimentary parking in the Green and Teal lots.  

 

GTE Financial promotes executive

TAMPA – GTE Financial promoted Laurie Newman to assistant vice president of general accounting. 

Newman joined GTE Financial in 2007. In her new role, Newman will continue to oversee the account reconciliation and accounts payable teams, with responsibilities spanning A/P functions, daily settlements, general ledger accounts, monthly accruals, payroll entries and daily cash management.

Newman has been instrumental in modernizing financial operations at GTE. She led the successful implementation of a comprehensive A/P workflow system in 2015 and played a vital role in the organization’s General Ledger conversion in 2012. Most recently, she helped launch an Account Reconciliation workflow platform that houses all approved reconciliations electronically, enhancing accuracy, transparency, and compliance.

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Real estate firm donates to mentoring organization

TAMPA, FL – The Bryan Coward Team at Keller Williams Realty has formed a  unique partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. 

For every home sold, the team donates $100 to support the work of the organization. 

Through its Sell a Home, Mentor a Child program, Bryan and his team are helping fund mentorship opportunities for local youth. Last year, they donated over $4,000 to BBBS of Tampa Bay.

“As someone who mentors through BBBS, this is deeply personal for me,” said Bryan Coward, team leader and longtime Westchase resident. “We don’t just sell houses. We build communities. And that starts with investing in the next generation.”

Get involved by visiting bryancoward.com/mentor-a-child

 

Visit Florida has new leader
TALLAHASSEE – Bryan Griffin has been appointed as president and CEO of Visit Florida. 

A lawyer, author and business owner from Tampa, Bryan serves as the communications director for Gov. Ron DeSantis and has articulated the policies and priorities of Florida for the last three years. 

As the official tourism marketing corporation for the state, VISIT FLORIDA plays a key role in supporting Florida’s economy through tourism promotion and partnership with the business community. 

“As Florida continues to break records in tourism, attracting visitors from across the nation and around the world, Bryan’s strategic vision and drive will be essential in sustaining and expanding that momentum,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. 

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Medical Roundtable, Brochure Exchange and Membership Breakfast.

  • Reps from Premier Community Healthcare, Cares Clinic and Good Samaritan Clinic participate in a Medical Roundtable hosted by Adam Shumaker from 8 to 9 a.m. Aug. 7 at Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, 6600 Madison St., New Port Richey. Register in advance. 
  • The chamber introduces the Hudson Business & Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 7 at Vitality Living Baypoint Village, 7927 State Road 52, Hudson. The event is free for members or $14 with lunch. Register in advance. 
  • Adam Thomas, executive director of Florida’s Sports Coast, speaks at the Membership Breakfast from 8:45 to 10 a.m. Aug. 8 at Heritage Springs Country Club, 11130 Robert Trent Jones Pkwy., Trinity. Admission costs $25 for members or $30 for others. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will host a Business Breakfast and Coffee & Networking events.

  • Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Aug. 8 at the chamber’s Zephyrhills location, 38550 5th Ave., or 8 to 9 a.m. Aug. 12 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. Register in advance. 
  • The chamber holds its Business Breakfast from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Aug. 14 at Florica Cracker, 14139 7th St., Dade City. Entry costs $15. Register in advance. 

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

 

Quick Hits

  • The Joint Chiropractic will offer a free initial consultation, exam and adjustment as well as opportunities to meet the team from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 9 at 2211 Collier Pkwy. Maxy Muscle Movement will also offer free stretch sessions to anyone interested.
  • Pasco EDC presents 37th Annual Awards from 5 to 9 p.m. Sept. 4 at Saddlebrook Resort, 5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel. The event includes an awards ceremony, trade show and dinner. General admission costs $125. Register at pascoedc.com.

 

Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office supports PACK

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Tax Collector Mike Fasano and Chief Deputy Tax Collector Tim Couet hold a check with teachers and students who are part of the PACK summer camp. Photo courtesy of Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office

PASCO COUNTY – The Pasco Association for Challenged Kids (PACK) was the Charity-of-the-Month for June at the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office.  

A total of $10,393.11 was raised to assist PACK’s summer camp program.  

“It was an honor to feature PACK during the month of June,” Fasano said. “This special organization has been a part of my life for close to 30 years. Thank you to a very generous community for donating to help improve the lives of young people with a variety of disabilities.  I appreciate all who made this large donation possible.”

Barry and Paula Cohen, founders of PACK, credited Fasano and his staff for their support. 

PACK fills in a several-week gap between the end of the school year and the start of summer classes for the students who attend.

Call Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at 727-847-8179 to learn more about the promotional and charitable giving programs at the tax collector’s office.

On the web: pascotaxes.com or pascopack.org

 

Children’s museum expands access to low-income families

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TAMPA – The Glazer Children’s Museum is launching Play for Everyone, a new initiative to ensure all families can experience the joy of play, regardless of income.

Play for Everyone will provide three different free or low-cost options for families to visit the museum on days and times that work for them—instead of only on a few, limited free days during the year.

Starting this fall, Play for Everyone will replace the museum’s Free Tuesday program and reinvest those resources to allow families to visit with an Access Pass, Partner Pass or Public Library Pass any day, at any time. 

The museum expects Play for Everyone to provide even more access to income-limited families, opening doors for tens of thousands of visitors each year.

“Our goal is to create an inclusive, welcoming space for every child,” said Sarah Cole, Glazer Children’s Museum president and CEO. “With Play for Everyone, we’re taking a thoughtful, community-driven approach to access so families can visit when it works best for them, without the barriers of scheduling or cost.”

Effective Oct. 1, the initiative includes a suite of financial access programs, tailored to different needs across the community:

  • Access Pass: Families who receive SNAP, EBT, or WIC benefits can sign up for an annual Access Pass in person at the museum. The pass provides $5 museum admission per person, per visit – for up to four people. The pass is valid for 12 months. Guests are welcome to reapply annually.
  • Partner Pass: The Museum will work with nonprofit partners to distribute thousands of free admission tickets directly to families they serve. Initial partners include: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, Children’s Network of Hillsborough, Kennedy Cares Tampa Bay, Mary Lee’s House and Tampa Bay Fashion Foundation.
  • Public Library Pass: Through Hillsborough Public Libraries, families can check out a four-person pass just like a library book free of charge. The Public Library Pass is also available at select locations in Pinellas, Pasco, and Polk counties. 

“Play is powerful. It’s crucial for raising curious, healthy, emotionally aware children in Tampa Bay. Our longstanding community partners know the power of play, and they’ve said, ‘I’m ready to help,’” added Cole. “So many of these organizations already serve families in crisis or transition. By partnering with them, we can get tickets directly into the hands of families that need a little extra support right now.”

Play for Everyone includes other ongoing efforts at the Glazer Children’s Museum to provide access:

  • Title One Field Trip Scholarships: The Glazer Children’s Museum will continue to provide free admission for students and chaperones from Title I schools.
  • Camp Imagination Scholarships: Up to 10% of spots in Camp Imagination summer camps are reserved each year for scholarship recipients.

The final Free Tuesday will take place on Sept. 2. The Glazer Children’s Museum thanks the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County for their longstanding support in funding the program.

The museum is seeking corporate sponsors, foundations and community advocates to support Play for Everyone. Contributions help underwrite ticket costs, outreach and scholarships to ensure all children can play, learn and thrive. Visit GlazerMuseum.org to learn more or get involved.

 

Embrace the quirky spirit of Gulfport at GECKOFEST  

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GULFPORT – The streets of Gulfport will be filled with live music, food and drink, arts and crafts, and street theater performances during the 25th annual GECKOFEST.

The family-friendly festival will take place from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Aug. 30 along Beach and Shore boulevards in the heart of downtown Gulfport (3101 Beach Blvd. S.).

The theme for this year’s GECKOFEST is “Still Weird.” Organizers are putting a spotlight on Gulfport’s arts scene and bohemian vibe. 

“We’re a hub for artists, musicians, writers and all kinds of creatives, with streets bursting with colorful, independently owned shops, galleries and boutiques,” event organizer Suzzane King said. “GECKOFEST is a tribute to our beloved gecko mascot and will showcase this artistic and wonderfully quirky spirit.”

Organizers encourage everyone to come dressed in their most imaginative and eccentric attire. There will be a wacky walking parade at 6 p.m. to show off this quirky fashion. 

Immediately following the parade, there will be a birthday celebration for G. Gordon McFly, Gulfport’s newest sculpture, designed by local marine artist, Ray Domingo.

Admission and parking are complimentary with courtesy shuttles available. 

GECKOFEST is preceded each year by the Gecko Art Show, Gecko Crawl and Gecko Ball. All events are hosted by the non-profit Gulfport Merchants Chamber of Commerce.   

A portion of proceeds from Gecko World events are donated back to the community each year. This year’s recipients include Tampa Bay Butterfly Foundation, Sonia Plotnick Health Fund, St. Pete MAD and CANDL Corps.

On the web: visitgulfportflorida.com

News Briefs (8/6/25): Woman’s club hosting Fall Flea Market

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Woman’s club to host Fall Flea Market

LAND O’ LAKES – The Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club will use proceeds from its annual Fall Flea Market to benefit the community through its many projects in support of local charitable groups and nonprofits.

The sale takes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 13 at the Heritage Park Recreation Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes. 

The club will welcome donations from the community from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 12 at the Heritage Park Recreation Center. Donations of antiques, art decor, small working appliances, kitchenware, clothing, shoes, children’s toys, books, tools, etc. will be accepted on this day only. All donations must be clean and in working order.  

Call Pamela at 813-838-2974 for details or visit gfwclutzlandolakeswomansclub.org for details. 

 

Tiger Bay Club to honor former mayors

TAMPA – The Tiger Bay Club of Tampa will honor former Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio and former Plant City Mayor Rick Lott with its Lifetime Achievement Award.

The award recognizes exceptional leadership, integrity and long-standing dedication to public service in the Tampa Bay area community. 

“Mayor Iorio and Mayor Lott have each led with vision and purpose, and their leadership has left an indelible mark on the region,” said Debra Bellanti, club president. “We are proud to honor them for their lifetime of service and commitment to our communities. They will join a list of impactful leaders who have earned this honor.”

They will be honored during the ninth annual awards luncheon, presented by Suncoast Tampa Association of Realtors, Dec. 12 at the Hilton Downtown Tampa. A portion of the proceeds will support the club’s newly launched Tiger Bay College Scholarship Program.

On the web: https://tigerbayclub.com/laaevent/

 

 Castor, Bilirakis want to end zombie campaigns

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Jamie Raskin (MD-08) have reintroduced the bipartisan Honest Elections and Campaign, No Gain (HEC No) Act. 

The bill would require former lawmakers and ex-candidates to close their campaign accounts within two years, ending so-called “zombie campaigns.” 

Castor cited reports of former members using leftover funds for personal expenses. 

The bill is supported by groups including Public Citizen, End Citizens United and Issue One. 

Castor has introduced similar legislation for four sessions, citing abuses such as ski trips, festivals and winery visits paid with campaign cash.

 

Tax office wins Sterling Award

TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office has earned the 2025 Governor’s Sterling Award, Florida’s top honor for organizational performance. 

A new mid-year video highlights major accomplishments, including the launch of smart lockers for private dealers and expanded Saturday License Services to meet growing community needs. 

“Transparency and keeping our community informed about all of the ways our office is making enhancements to better serve the community is a big part of our mission,” Tax Collector Nancy Millan said. “These accomplishments reflect our team’s dedication to innovation and our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Hillsborough County residents and businesses.”

 

 

Protecting those who protect us

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Officers from multiple jurisdictions graduate from a certificate program at St. Petersburg College that is focused on mental health. Photo courtesy of Pepin Family Foundation

ST. PETERSBURG – More police officers die by suicide than in the line of duty. Behind the badge, many carry invisible wounds and far too often suffer in silence. A growing movement in Tampa Bay is changing that.

Law enforcement officers from around Tampa Bay walked across the stage July 28 as the second graduating class of the Sun Coast Police Benevolent Association Applied Mental Health Advanced Technical Certificate for First Responders program at St. Petersburg College. 

This year’s class includes graduates from the St. Petersburg, Tampa, Largo and Bradenton police departments. 

Each graduate is driven by personal experiences:

  • Detective Stephanie Blitz, Largo PD: A seasoned hostage negotiator, found herself in an unimaginable position when her husband was involved in an officer-involved shooting and she had to negotiate the scene. She says it highlights the importance of support after critical incidents for officers and their families.
  • Officer Angie Torres, TPD: A U.S. Marine Corps veteran now serving in the department’s behavioral health unit, she is passionate about expanding wellness resources for officers. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in counseling to further support her fellow officers and military veterans.
  • Retired Captain David DiSano, Tampa International Airport: Enrolled in the program in memory of several friends and co-workers he lost to suicide.

The certificate program was developed to expand on the mental health resources offered by local law enforcement agencies. It was a brainchild of Sun Coast Police Benevolent Association President Jonathan Vazquez and Executive Director/General Counsel Sasha Lohn, based on their experiences supporting officers facing mental health challenges. 

Vazquez said you go to war with an expectation that people may die but he didn’t expect how many of his peers would return home safe only to later die by suicide. 

“Law enforcement culture is a lot like military culture,” Vazquez said. “We need to talk about the hard things we see, hear, smell. We need to help each other.”

With legislative support from Florida Rep. Linda Chaney and Sen. Ed Hooper, the college developed and implemented the academic pathway, prioritizing the mental health needs of law enforcement officers. 

Tuition for the six specialized courses in this three-semester program is fully funded thanks to this partnership and the continued support of the Pepin Family Foundation and Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation.

 “Officers are trained to respond in crisis, but too often, they’re expected to carry that weight alone,” said Tina Pepin, executive director of the Pepin Family Foundation. “We believe when officers are educated and trained in mental and physical resilience, they’re better prepared to care for themselves, their families, and the people they serve. This program is already improving lives across Tampa Bay.”

Greg Mertz, president of the  Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation, said each officer that completes this program is helping shift the culture of law enforcement. 

“This is how we stop trauma, burnout and suicide from spiraling,” Mertz said. “This is how we protect the people who protect us.”

This fall, the cohort plans to share what they’ve learned by distributing a custom challenge coin to first responders in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Manatee counties. The front of the coin reads “First to Respond, Last to Ask for Help” with “We Fight as a Family, You are Never Alone” on the back. Each coin will be accompanied by a card and QR code linking to a vetted list of mental health resources specifically for first responders. A $5,000 donation from the Pepin Family Foundation is helping expand the reach of this initiative.