The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Tampa Theatre sees progress on $30M campaign

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TAMPA – Tampa Theatre announced progress on its Second Century Campaign: a $30 million capital initiative to restore, enhance and expand the landmark as it approaches its centennial on Oct. 15. 

The campaign, which is focused on preservation, education and enhanced patron experiences, will ensure Tampa Theatre continues to thrive as a hub for arts, entertainment and community engagement.

As part of the first phase of the campaign, which totals $24.5 million, Tampa Theatre will restore the historic Duncan Auditorium to its original grandeur. The Duncan Auditorium will be closed March 10 through the end of September for infrastructure upgrades, restoration of the decorative paint and plaster, and preservation of its original fixtures and furnishings.

Other priorities for the first phase include:

  • Opening the John T. Taylor Screening Room, a 43-seat microcinema adjoining the historic lobby, in June 2024, creating an intimate space for first-run films and ensuring that film fans will have access to Tampa Theatre even as the historic auditorium undergoes restoration.
  • Renovating underutilized space on the Florida Avenue side of the building to create a new, two-story education wing that will house permanent classrooms and archival storage for year-round learning opportunities in partnership with the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa and others.

President and CEO John Bell described the Second Century Campaign as a “transformational investment in our community’s cultural legacy.” 

“By authentically restoring the historic Duncan Auditorium and expanding our capabilities through new spaces, we’re confident that Tampa Theatre will continue to educate, entertain, enlighten and unite people for generations to come,” Bell said. 

Thanks to the generosity of the community and leadership gifts from Bank of America; Celia and Jim Ferman in memory of Martha Ferman; Bonnie S. Sonnenfeld; and John T. Taylor, the campaign is more than 93% of the way toward its first-phase goal. 

Significant public funding has been provided by the City of Tampa Community Redevelopment Agency. This project is sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Historical Resources and the State of Florida as well as the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners.

Visit tampatheatre.org/secondcentury to make a donation or learn more about naming opportunities and other ways to give.

Pasco County recognizes Star Employees of the Year 

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Pasco County Administrator Mike Carballa recognizes the road rehabilitation team. Photo courtesy of Pasco County Government

 

Pasco County Administrator Mike Carballa talks about Garry Kaylor’s service to the facilities management department. Photo courtesy of Pasco County Government

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County Government recognized exceptional employees who exemplify its mission of “Serving Our Community to Create a Better Future.” 

Winners of the 2025 Star Team, Star Performer and Star Leader of the Year were formally recognized Feb. 3 during the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners meeting.

“Pasco County is fortunate to have such dedicated, service-driven team members who consistently raise the bar,” said Jack Mariano, chair of the board of county commissioners. “Their innovation, hard work and passion make a real difference in our community, and we’re proud to celebrate their achievements.”

Pasco County Administrator Mike Carballa praises Justin Ebanks in the public works department. Photo courtesy of Pasco County Government

Pasco County’s 2025 Star Team of the Year award went to the road rehabilitation team. This group consistently delivers high-quality road improvements, enhancing safety, mobility and quality of life in the community. The county said members’ drive, professionalism and teamwork embody the spirit of public service. 

Garry Kaylor, known for his service and proficiency, is Pasco County’s 2025 Star Performer of the Year. Garry consistently goes the extra mile to deliver solutions that strengthen county operations, including innovations that saved over $150,000 in contracting costs this year. The county said his dedication and forward-thinking approach make him an invaluable member of the facilities management team.

Justin Ebanks is Pasco County’s 2025 Star Leader of the Year for guiding public works through the demanding American Public Works Association Accreditation process, coordinating across departments and helping the team achieve a 99% compliance rate. He did all that while supporting recovery efforts following a challenging hurricane season.

Employees nominate their peers based on exceptional performance, dedication and collaboration. Nominations are submitted by department and branch. The county’s leadership team votes for top performers.

 

Business Digest (02/11/26): Chamber events

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U.S. Postal Service to observe Presidents Day
TAMPA – The U.S. Postal Service will observe Presidents Day on Feb. 16.
All Post Office locations will be closed. Regular mail delivery and retail services will resume on Feb. 17.
Customers are reminded that when Post Offices are closed, they can still access many postal products and services through usps.com and self-service kiosks available in select lobbies nationwide.
These kiosks feature postage printing for Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express and international shipping; stamps for purchase; the ability to weigh and mail packages; and package tracking information.
On the web: usps.com

North Tampa Bay events
LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Coffee Social.
• Members network during Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Feb. 18 at Amberlin Wiregrass Ranch, 28355 Sparrows Edge Circle, Wesley Chapel.
Visit northtampabaychamber.com for details about the chamber and events.

Greater Pasco events
NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber will host a Veterans Roundtable, Land O’ Lakes Business Exchange, Membership Breakfast and programming for women and youth professionals.
• People interested in veterans issues connect during the Veterans Roundtable from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Feb. 11 at 4 & Co Coworking Spaces, 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Register in advance.
• Members celebrate the grand opening of the Edward Jones office led by Christopher Colon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 11 at 10720 FL-54, Trinity. The ribbon cutting starts at 11:30 a.m. Register in advance.
• Members trade company literature during the Land O’ Lakes Business Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 12 at SpringHill Suites, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Food costs $14. Register in advance.
• Marcus Applefield, Chris Eaton, Andrew Hewitt and Kate Lazarotti take part in a panel discussion during the Greater Pasco Membership Breakfast from 8:45 to 10 a.m. Feb. 13 at SpringHill Suites, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members pay $25. Others pay $30. Register in advance.
• The Young Professionals Group holds a Valentine’s Movie Night from 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 13 at 4 & Co, 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. Register in advance.
• The Professional Women in Business meet for a networking lunch from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 18 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance.
Visit greaterpasco.com for details about the chamber and events.

East Pasco events
DADE CITY – The East Pasco Chamber will host a Business Breakfast and Coffee & Networking.
• The chamber hosts a Business Breakfast from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Feb. 12 at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills. The entry costs $15. Register in advance.
• Members network during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Feb. 13 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.) and 8 to 9 a.m. Feb. 17 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.).
Visit eastpascochamber.org for details about the chamber and events.

Quick Hits
• Taylor Doe will give the keynote presentation during Pasco EDC’s sixth annual Grow Pasco on March 19 at Saint Leo University Wellness Center.

Emergency physician opens BODYBAR studio

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The BODYBAR fitness concept is opening its 10th location in the Tampa Bay market. Photo courtesy of BODYBAR
BODYBAR Pilates has been redefining fitness with its approach to Pilates since 2012. Photo courtesy of BODYBAR

WESLEY CHAPEL – Emergency physician Jen Waxler has dedicated her career to wellness. She is now bringing that passion into the fitness space.

She and Scott Waxler will open the new BODYBAR Wesley Chapel on Feb. 9 at 27216 State Road 56. 

The BODYBAR method is a workout experience powered by Pilates that helps individuals discover their physical potential and enhance their overall well-being both on and off the Reformer.

Having long educated others on nutrition, fitness and well-being, Jen believes in the power of movement and mindfulness to build a strong mind-body connection. The new studio gives members a place to slow down, recharge and prioritize themselves amid the stress of everyday life.

“BODYBAR Pilates’ mission is to cultivate a balanced, athletic and real community,” Jen said. “Our expert-led classes cater to all fitness levels in a welcoming environment, utilizing state-of-the-art Pilates equipment. We welcome everyone to come in and try Pilates at our studio and see how it can help anyone achieve their long-term fitness goals.”

This will mark the 10th location in the Tampa Bay market and the 76th studio for the franchise. Additional studios are set to open later this spring in Westchase, Palmetto and North and Downtown St. Petersburg.

Hope Services connects people to construction careers

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Gabriel Quin, Bo Robinson, Diamante Dejesus and Terrance Hill show off certifications that’ll help them become more hirable to employers in the construction industry. Photo courtesy of Hope Services

LAND O’ LAKES – Hope Services is celebrating the graduation of its first Construction Training Class of 2026 at the organization’s Life Skills and Vocational Training Center. The nonprofit offers vocational training and job readiness for people with disabilities and others facing barriers to employment. 

Gabriel Quin, Bo Robinson, Diamante Dejesus and Terrance Hill completed the 80-hour National Center for Construction Education and Research certification course, which began on Jan. 5. 

Two of the graduates will be entering the workforce through on-the-job training opportunities. The other two have secured apprenticeships with Florida Masonry.

“Graduating four individuals from our NCCER Core Construction Program represents more than the completion of a class. It represents opportunity, confidence and a real pathway to employment,” said David Caldas, executive director of operations at Hope Services. “Each graduate has shown commitment, resilience and a willingness to invest in their future. We are incredibly proud of the progress they’ve made.”

The course, taught by Vocational Training Specialist Bobby Reyes, combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning. Students gained experience using tools, practicing safety protocols and completing 14 hours of on-site work with Habitat for Humanity. The NCCER certification demonstrates each graduate’s skills and readiness to employers in the construction industry.

Hope Services credited CareerSource Pasco Hernando and the Community Foundation Tampa Bay for sponsoring the construction program and covering training costs for participants. 

Caldas also played a key role in launching the organization’s Second Chance Program, which provides construction and culinary training opportunities to help break the cycle of incarceration.

In addition to its Construction and Culinary Arts programs, Hope Services offers certification in Retail and Hospitality using a similar hands-on and classroom-based approach. The organization also provides Pre-Placement Training and Self-Advocacy courses, as well as access to assistive technology through its partnership with the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology. Hope Services’ employment specialists work one-on-one with participants across West-Central Florida to help them identify their strengths and build meaningful careers.    

Hope Services also hosts an annual prom-style event called Dance Your Dream for individuals ages 14 and older from 5 to 8 p.m. April 18 at Wesley Chapel District Park. Proceeds benefit Hope Services’ Life Skills and Vocational Training Center, which provides hands-on certification programs.

Visit hopegetsjobs.org/news-events/dance-your-dream/dance-your-dream-2026.html to register or explore sponsorship opportunities.

 

Chalk Talk (02/11/26): Saint Leo University hosts open house

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Saint Leo University’s Spring Open House will begin with a welcome session and keynote address, followed by a resource fair to explore academic programs, career pathways and campus resources.
  • 001: Saint Leo University’s Spring Open House will begin with a welcome session and keynote address, followed by a resource fair to explore academic programs, career pathways and campus resources. 
  • 002: Guided campus and specialty tours will showcase academic spaces, residence halls, student life facilities, the historic Abbey Church and the Wellness Center. 

 

Saint Leo University hosts open house

ST. LEO – Saint Leo University will welcome prospective high school and transfer students and their families at its Spring Open House.

Attendees will explore academic offerings, student life and the admissions process from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle. 

This open house marks the final opportunity for students who have not yet been admitted to visit campus ahead of fall semester 2026 enrollment decisions. Advance registration is required by Feb. 20 at saintleo.edu/student-experience/visit.

Students attending an open house at Saint Leo University for the first time who plan to enroll for Fall 2026 are also eligible for a $250 scholarship.

“Choosing a university is about more than programs and paperwork, it’s about finding a place where you belong,” President Jim Burkee said. “This immersive event lets students experience our welcoming community and see how we support them every step of the way. At Saint Leo, we meet students where they are in a rapidly changing digital world, offering a values-based education rooted in excellence, innovation and service.”

The excitement continues from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. with the Lions Bash, a tailgate with free food, music, giveaways, inflatables and carnival-style games at the Marion Bowman Activities Center parking lot.

 

PHSC to receive more from nursing education fund

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College has been recommended to be awarded $270,000 for the 2025-26 academic year as part of Gov. Ron DeSantis’s Linking Industry to Nursing Education Fund. 

DeSantis approved PHSC’s recommendation on Jan. 20, as part of his $20 million investment into LINE funding.

The LINE Fund is a dollar-for-dollar matching grant that supports partnerships between participating educational institutions and health care providers. In the previous academic year, PHSC was recommended for $10,000, which went to scholarships and learning opportunities for PHSC’s nursing students. 

This academic year, the PHSC Foundation received $200,000 from Tampa General Hospital, $50,000 from AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and Dade City and $20,000 from BayCare NorthBay Hospital, totaling $270,000, to which the college will receive matching funds from the state via the LINE Fund.

“These funds will help remove financial barriers for students, strengthen our faculty and enhance hands-on learning opportunities that prepare skilled, compassionate nurses to serve our communities,” said Eric Hall, PHSC president. “We are grateful for our community and state’s continued investment in programs that support student success and a stronger health care workforce.”

 

HART kicks off Black History School Tours 

TAMPA – The Hillsborough Transit Authority launched its annual Black History School Tours on Feb. 3 at Tampa Bay Technical High School.

The kickoff began with a brief program featuring several leaders highlighted on HART’s specially wrapped Black History Bus, followed by the first interactive school session led by HART’s Community Engagement team.

Speakers were: 

  • Arthenia Joyner, former State Senator, first African American woman to practice law in Hillsborough and Polk counties.
  • Fred Hearns, the first curator of Black history at the Tampa Bay History Center. 
  • Chloe Coney, founder and former CEO of the CDC of Tampa.
  • Carla Williams, HART community engagement director.
  • Ernestine Woody-Bethune, principal of Tampa Bay Technical High School.

Black History School Tours feature a specially themed bus that visits schools across the county and engages students in lessons about African Americans who have played pivotal roles in shaping history. 

Interactive presentations include trivia games, group discussions and Q&A sessions.

School tours continue throughout the month of February, with each session lasting about 30 to 45 minutes.

The program visited 15 schools across Hillsborough County last year. 

 

UA students make dean’s, president’s lists

TUSCALOOSA, Ala, – Several area students made honors lists for the fall semester at The University of Alabama.

Lutz students Bryce Anderson, Victoria Ferreira and Madison Maxwell made the dean’s list. Graydon Horn, of Odessa, also made the list. They earned a grade point average of at least 3.5. 

Lutz students Renata Blatt, Audrey Durrieu, CJ Hovan and Danielle Kanas made the president’s list. Logan Hinsberg, of Odessa, also made the list. They earned a 4.0 GPA with all As.

 

Quick Hits

  • Jason Couture (Odessa), Jackson Preacher (Lutz) and Jackson Reese (Odessa) earned gold stars for fall 2025 at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. They earned at least a 3.7 grade point average. 
  • Victory High Schools announced its 2026 Board of Directors: Stephanie Barnes (chair), Elliot Monsod (vice chair), George Motran (treasurer) and Dale Nettnin. 
  • Pasco-Hernando State College is registering players for its annual golf tournament. The event starts at 9 a.m. May 1 at Lake Jovita Golf & Country Club in Dade City. 

Bank OZK donates to microloan program 

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Bank OZK is investing in local businesses through the SMARTstart Microloan Program. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

PASCO COUNTY – The Pasco Economic Development Council announced that Bank OZK has donated $4,000 to the SMARTstart Microloan Program and became a Partner Investor in the organization. 

The microloan program gives entrepreneurs the funds they need to start or grow their business.

“At Bank OZK, we believe small businesses deserve more than capital. They deserve partners,” said Ehren McGeehan, senior vice president and business banking sales manager. “We’re committed to helping entrepreneurs by delivering flexible capital, trusted expertise and long-term partnerships so they grow sustainably and build lasting impact in their communities. We are so pleased that our donation to Pasco EDC will support technical assistance to small businesses as well as their microloan program.”

The microloan program helps entrepreneurs and small businesses in Pasco County diversify the economy and create opportunities for growth. The program has supported more than 85 businesses resulting in over 295 direct jobs, according to Pasco EDC. 

“We are very grateful for Bank OZK’s support and their recent generous donation to the microloan program,” Pasco EDC President/CEO Bill Cronin said. “The SMARTstart Microloan Program is an important resource for our community’s entrepreneurs as they establish and build a strong business foundation and continue to grow for years to come.”

Shaila Velazquez, owner of Pampano Coffee, is a recent microloan program recipient who is in the process of opening her brick-and-mortar facility in Zephyrhills. 

“We are incredibly grateful for the Pasco EDC microloan program. This funding will allow us to purchase the equipment and furnishings needed to open our doors,” Velazquez said. “It was the missing piece of our funding mix that will help turn our vision into reality.”

 

Want to learn more?

To qualify for a microloan, businesses must be headquartered in Pasco County. Funds can be used for purchasing inventory and machinery, working capital, supplies and more. Visit smartstartpasco.com/microloan or email Dan Mitchell at if your business is interested in learning more or making a donation to the microloan program. 

 

Art Fair Tampa organizers are thinking big

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TAMPA – Organizers are touting the inaugural Art Fair Tampa as a global event. 

The four-day celebration of contemporary art, cultural exchange and immersive creative experiences will feature 300 artists from around the world from Oct. 15 to 18 at the Tampa Convention Center. 

“It’s a cultural experience that connects artists, collectors and communities from around the world,” lead organizer Tyler Sirota said. “We anticipate it will become one of the largest indoor art conventions in America.”

The indoor format at the Tampa Convention Center offers a climate-controlled environment for viewing and acquiring art, while also providing installations and programming designed to enhance the visitor experience.

“Art Fair Tampa reflects Tampa Bay’s growing reputation as an artistic hotbed both domestically and internationally,” said Santiago C. Corrada, president and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay. “The sheer scope and scale of this inaugural event reinforces our ambitious commitment to the arts while welcoming new audiences, collectors and creators to experience Tampa Bay’s history and culture that has inspired so many.”

While many international artists call Tampa home, the fair also provides local artists with an opportunity to benefit from an international platform in their own community.

“Tampa has an incredible creative community, and this fair elevates it on the international stage,” said Chase Parker, a Tampa-based artist. “For artists who have worked globally, it’s exciting to see that level of attention and opportunity arriving here at home.”

Visit artfairtampa.com for artist applications, exhibitor details and ticket announcements.

 

LILLY supports learners beyond traditional classrooms 

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Lexa Duno celebrates the grand opening of LILLY Education Foundation in 2024. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

 

ZEPHYRHILLS – Lexa Duno has supported nearly 200 families and educators in the Tampa Bay area since opening LILLY Education Foundation in July 2024. 

LILLY’s Village in the Valley initiative transforms how Pasco County families access resources for students who benefit from nontraditional approaches to teaching and learning. 

“In many ways, the vision I have for LILLY and Village in the Valley was inspired by and developed under the mentorship of Pasco EDC and the SMARTstart program,” Duno said. “I realized this kind of community and support is exactly what parents, providers and ‘edupreneurs’ need right now.”

Lexa Duno has participated in multiple SMARTstart programs which have helped grow her business, including the incubator program, CO.STARTERS for Causes (seen here), the SMARTstart Education Series and GROW Pasco. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

SMARTstart provides tools growing businesses need for long-term success in areas such as funding, education, guidance, collaboration and workspace. It has helped businesses create over 929 jobs and currently has 54 incubator members. 

“LILLY Education Foundation will be remembered as one of SMARTstart’s great success stories, not just because of its achievements as a venture, but even more so for the impact it will have on our community’s youth,” said Dan Mitchell, assistant vice president of entrepreneurship for Pasco EDC.

 

Families can find the right providers

LILLY is using a matchmaking approach to educational services with the Find Your Match: A Parent-Provider Speed Dating Event on Feb. 5 at SMARTstart at The Grove.

The Valentine’s Day-themed gathering will unite 11 specialists and professionals offering therapies, alternative education programs and support services with home families.

Unlike traditional resource fairs where providers compete for attention, Find Your Match structures genuine conversations through timed rotations, allowing families to meet each service provider for focused discussions about their child’s unique needs.

“Our LILLY provider speed dating event addresses a critical need among independent, field-based providers seeking professional support and collaboration with like-minded peers who are deeply committed to the children they serve,” said Zielia Crespo on behalf of Calmer Pathways Therapy LLC, one of the participating event providers. 

 

Want to go?

Find Your Match: A Parent-Provider Speed Dating Event starts at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 5 at SMARTstart at The Grove. The free event is open to all home education families and those exploring educational alternatives.

It will feature providers offering a range of services, including occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, specialized tutoring, music therapy, executive function coaching and alternative education. 

Register in advance at eventbrite.com. Local businesses and providers interested in establishing community partnerships may contact .