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Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Chalk Talk (12/24/25): Students, seniors connect through light

December 26, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Students at Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay made connections with residents at Aston Gardens through a Chanukah celebration. Photo courtesy of Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay

Students, older adults connect through light

TAMPA – Lower elementary students at Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay took part in one of the school’s most cherished traditions: the annual Chanukah celebration with the residents at Aston Gardens. 

The visit began with lively Chanukah songs that filled the room with energy and joy. The residents clapped along, many joining in softly, at first, as familiar melodies sparked memories. 

After uniting in song, students and seniors gathered together around tables for a few spirited rounds of dreidel. Laughter echoed as everyone compared spins, traded chocolate gelt and enjoyed the friendly competition.

The students also brought fresh latkes and applesauce.

Many residents commented on how meaningful it was to celebrate together and how the students’ presence brightened their day.

 

Performing Arts Series returns

NEW PORT RICHEY – Tickets are on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Performing Arts Series.

  • Jan. 9 – Yacht Rock (1970s and 1980s rock).
  • Feb. 6 – Dwight Icenhower (Elvis Presley tribute).
  • Feb. 27 – Crystal Stark: Divas of Disco.
  • March 20 – The Edge Effect (acapella).
  • April 10 – Honky Tonk Chicks (Country).

Tickets range from $30 to $35 with discounts available for season ticket packages and groups. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.

 

District names Outstanding Seniors

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools has identified 17 students as Outstanding Seniors.

Profiles for each student are available on the district website, highlighting scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and extracurricular activities.

Winners and their schools are as follows: 

  • Michael Whittaker, Anclote High School
  • Danya Nasiri, Angeline Academy of Innovation
  • Lindsay Fulop, Cypress Creek High School
  • Braydin Gadouas, Fivay High School
  • Miles Slavinsky, Gulf High School
  • Mylah Short, Hudson High School
  • Sadie Graber, J. W. Mitchell High School
  • Mariana Vargas, Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation
  • Emerson Phelps, Land O’Lakes High School
  • Parker Baldwin, Pasco eSchool
  • Olivia Simmons, Pasco High School
  • Logan Owens, River Ridge High School
  • Reese Van Brocklin, Sunlake High School
  • Lucy Kossoff, Wendell Krinn Technical High School
  • Jadon Wilson, Wesley Chapel High School
  • Nathan Finkel, Wiregrass Ranch High School
  • Ethan Stone, Zephyrhills High School

 

Pasco County Schools recognizes staff

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized two staff members Dec. 16 for going above and beyond the call of duty.

  • Tina Ray,  of West Pasco Education Academy, not only has more than 25 years of experience in alternative education but also pitches in with programs at the school. 
  • Logan Gardner, of Watergrass Elementary School, was nominated for being a supportive teacher and team lead.

 

Quick Hits

  • Lorea Sprackling of Lutz, was elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at The University of Tampa.
  • Chloe Benoist of Odessa, was named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. Students must have an academic average of 3.5 with at least 12 hours to qualify. 
  • Benjamin Terlion, of Land O’ Lakes, earned a bachelor’s degree in aviation at Minnesota State University, Mankato. 
  • Jenna Backus, of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, won a $40,000 scholarship from the College Board.
  • Nirvika Ramsetty, of Oakstead Elementary School, won an essay contest run by Pasco County Clerk and Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles.
  • Ava Reiners, of Wendell Krinn Technical High School, is nominated for the U.S. Presidential Scholar Program in Career and Technical Education.

 

AdventHealth, Bolts Blue Crew help deliver holiday joy

December 25, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Christmas in Class makes holiday gifts possible for hundreds of children each year. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

 

TAMPA – Students at Foster Academy were treated to a special holiday surprise Dec. 19 as AdventHealth team members joined the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Bolts Blue Crew to deliver Christmas gifts directly to classrooms.

Throughout the morning, students received gifts, AdventHealth Buddy Bears and plenty of hugs from Santa. For some children, the gift they received through Christmas with Class may be the only Christmas present they receive this year.

The Christmas with Class program supports students in high-need communities. The program was founded by Stephanie and Blaine Patterson.

In recognition of its impact, Christmas with Class was honored as an AdventHealth Goal Getter on Dec. 18 during the Tampa Bay Lightning game against the Los Angeles Kings. A special video highlighting the program’s work played on the arena’s big screen.

Habitat families receive new bicycles for their children

December 25, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Bicycles were donated through a partnership with onbikes, a Tampa-based nonprofit that unites the community for bike builds and events. Its annual Winter Wonder Ride had more than 2,000 festively dressed bicyclists cruising through downtown Tampa. Photo courtesy of Habitat of Tampa Bay Hillsborough
Families received the new bikes this Christmas and should be moved into their new Habitat homes by next Christmas. Photo courtesy of Habitat of Tampa Bay Hillsborough

TAMPA – Christmas came early for 25 Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough families, as children received 50 new bicycles thanks to the onbikes program and community supporters.

Ten Habitat families picked up bicycles Dec. 18 at the onbikes warehouse, where some excited children had the chance to receive and ride their new bikes. 

For many children, it’s the first set of wheels they’ve ever owned. 

An additional 15 families received their bicycles the week prior. Some parents chose to make the bikes a surprise waiting under the tree on Christmas morning.

For families working toward first-time homeownership with Habitat, the gift represents more than a holiday surprise. Parents say the bicycles bring joy and encouragement as they continue to invest hundreds of “sweat equity” hours toward the purchase of a safe, affordable Habitat home with a mortgage designed to fit their budget.

“These families are doing the real work and moving closer to the dream of being able to put down roots for the next generation,” said Tina Forcier, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough. “It’s a little extra Christmas magic, so their children will also know that wonderful feeling of having their own new bikes to ride.”

 

News Briefs (12/24/25): GoPasco launches new bus route

December 24, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

GoPasco launches new bus route

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Public Transportation (GoPasco) will introduce a new bus route serving the Land O’ Lakes area beginning Jan. 5.

Route 41 will provide weekday service with access to Route 54, which connects New Port Richey and Zephyrhills and offers regional connections with HART and PSTA. The route includes 16 northbound stops and 15 southbound stops.

Key stops include Heritage Park, Land O’ Lakes High School, Pasco County Utilities Building, Tax Collector’s Office, USPS, Walmart (U.S. 41 and Dale Mabry), and the Pasco County Corrections Visitation & Resource Center.

Schedules and route details are available at mypas.co/BusRoutes. Riders can track buses in real time using the myStop app. 

 

Pasco County commissioners reorganizes

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Pasco Board of County Commissioners reorganized at its Dec. 9 meeting.

The board elected Jack Mariano as chair, Seth Weightman as vice chair and Lisa Yeager as second vice chair.

“I’m honored to begin serving as chair of this commission,” Mariano said. “Pasco County has made tremendous progress in becoming a place where people want to live, work and build their future. I look forward to continuing that momentum and ensuring Pasco remains a county of opportunity, innovation and quality of life for all.”

The board consists of the following members: Ron Oakley (District 1), Seth Weightman (District 2), Kathryn Starkey (District 3), Lisa Yeager (District 4) and Jack Mariano (District 5).

Pasco County Commission meetings are usually held every other Tuesday, alternating between the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey and the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City.

 

Zephyrhills announces 2026 Photography Contest

ZEPHYRHILLS – The City of Zephyrhills and the Zephyrhills Community Redevelopment Agency are inviting photographers of all ages and skill levels to enter the 2026 City of Zephyrhills Photo Contest. 

Participants are encouraged to submit one original digital photo showcasing a local landmark or meaningful place in Zephyrhills, from historic sites and parks to public art, iconic signs and community gathering spots.

Prizes include $300 for first place, $200 for second and $100 for third. The first-place entry will also be submitted to the FCCMA Statewide Photo Contest.

Entries are due Jan. 5 by 11:59 p.m. Email submissions to and include your name and phone number. Rules are available at zephyrhills.gov or .

 

Pasco County offices to close for Christmas holiday

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Board of Commissioners offices will be closed Thursday, Dec. 25, and Friday, Dec. 26, in observance of Christmas. Offices will reopen Monday, Dec. 29.

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources offices, recreation complexes and community centers will be closed through Saturday, Dec. 27, though parks and beaches will remain open from dawn to dusk. 

GoPasco will not operate on Dec. 25 and will resume regular service on Dec. 26; administrative offices will remain closed.

Libraries will close at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, through Saturday, Dec. 27. 

Animal Services facilities will be closed with emergency response only; adoption services reopen Dec. 27. 

Solid waste facilities will be closed Dec. 25. They will also be closed to the public Dec. 26; however, they will be open to Pasco County licensed commercial haulers.

 

Pasco County offices to close for New Year’s holiday

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Board of Commissioners offices will be closed Thursday, Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2, in observance of New Year’s. Government offices will reopen Monday, Jan. 5.

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources offices, recreation complexes and community centers will be closed through Saturday, Jan. 3, though parks and beaches remain open dawn to dusk. 

GoPasco will not operate Jan. 1 and will resume regular service Jan. 2, with administrative offices closed.

Libraries will close at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, through Jan. 2. 

Animal Services facilities will be closed, with emergency response only; adoption services reopen Jan. 3. 

Solid waste facilities will be closed Jan. 1. ​​They will be closed to the public Jan. 2; however, they will be open to Pasco County licensed commercial haulers.

Chicken dinners lead to community winners

December 23, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The City of Zephyrhills Mayor’s Youth Council shared proceeds of its Chicken BBQ Drive-Thru fundraiser with CHIPZ. The event saw strong community involvement. Photo courtesy of City of Zephyrhills

ZEPHYRHILLS – The City of Zephyrhills Mayor’s Youth Council presented an $11,000 check to the Community Hope and Intervention Project of Zephyrhills during a city council meeting Dec. 8 at Zephyrhills City Hall.

Members of the youth council, led by Mayor Melonie Bahr Monson, selected CHIPZ as their annual community project, setting an original fundraising goal of $4,000. 

CHIPZ supports people experiencing homelessness in the Zephyrhills area through outreach and prevention, community navigation and connections to critical resources. The 501c3 organization strives “to create and increase access to programs, services and housing for the most vulnerable residents of Zephyrhills and the surrounding area.”

The youth council raised $10,830 through its citywide Chicken BBQ Drive-Thru fundraiser. 

Pitmaster Kevin Bahr, of Bahr’s Propane Gas & A/C, prepared all 350 chicken dinners with support from Beth Aker, executive director of Meals on Wheels of Pasco.

Ten youth council members and six volunteers from the Zephyrhills JROTC and Zephyrhills FFA assisted during the event. City staff and youth council mentors also supported operations throughout the evening. 

The event had 20 community sponsors, many of whom donated their purchased meals, allowing more than 150 dinners to be served directly to residents in need.

Additional last-minute contributions from community donors pushed the total to $11,000.

 

Business Digest (12/24/25): GROW Pasco offers breakout sessions

December 22, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

GROW Pasco returns with impactful breakout sessions

  1. LEO – Taylor Doe will give the keynote presentation at GROW Pasco 2026. 

Doe’s presentation, “And Then Moments,” goes deeper into entrepreneurial stories than what we’re accustomed to hearing. It’s a nitty-gritty look at what goes into success.

Attendees can also pick up some pointers during 15 breakout sessions, including: 

  • Funding Forum with Michael Anselmo, Brad Owens and Rafael Lohner.
  • Top 10 Sales Drivers with Tim Neilan.
  • Factors that Impact a Loan Decision with Johannys Irizarry.
  • Profit Optimization Made Simple with Joe Abreu.
  • Build An Exit-Ready Business with Tee Gweena.

The sixth annual event takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 19 at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, St. Leo. 

Sponsorships are available. General admission costs $65.

Register in advance at pascoedc.com.

 

McDonald’s restaurants raise money for charity 

  1. PETERSBURG – Locally owned and operated McDonald’s restaurants across Central Florida raised $453,691.97 this holiday season to support Ronald McDonald House Tampa Bay and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida. 

From September through November, 406 restaurants and 44 owner/operators collected donations through in-store Round Up and $1, $3, and $5 giving programs.

Customers contributed by rounding up purchases or donating through multiple payment options, including the McDonald’s app. 

The donation will help support families with critically ill children by providing housing and services near hospitals.

 

GTE Financial named a top workplace

TAMPA – GTE Financial has been named one of America’s Best Workplaces for 2026 by Best Companies Group, in partnership with BridgeTower Media.

The national recognition highlights organizations with exceptional workplace culture and people-first practices. GTE Financial ranked No. 11 among large companies (250–999 employees).

“At GTE Financial, our employees are the foundation of everything we do,” said Brian Best, president and CEO of GTE Financial. “We believe that if we invest in our people, support their growth and foster a culture where they can thrive, our members and communities benefit directly.”

GTE Financial is a not-for-profit credit union serving members throughout the Tampa Bay region and beyond.

 

Achieva Credit Union hires chief lending officer

DUNEDIN – Achieva Credit Union has appointed David Germann as its new chief lending officer as the organization continues to expand lending programs across Florida. 

Germann has more than 35 years of experience in consumer, business and real estate lending.

Prior to joining Achieva, Germann served as vice president of sales and marketing at Credit Union LIFT Fund, LLC, and previously held the role of chief lending officer at Credit Union of America.

“His track record of driving responsible growth, paired with his deep understanding of what members truly need, makes him the right leader to guide Achieva’s lending strategy into the future,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of Achieva Credit Union. “Under Dave’s leadership, we’ll continue expanding access to credit, building innovative products, and helping more Floridians achieve their goals.”

 

AmSkills announces leadership transition

December 21, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

HOLIDAY – AmSkills announced a key leadership transition designed to strengthen the vocational training and workforce development organization’s long-term sustainability and expand its regional impact.

Tom Mudano will be stepping down after more than a decade as CEO.

Over the years, Mudano played a key role in building AmSkills’ programs and establishing its presence as a leading workforce development organization in Tampa Bay. 

Mudano will continue supporting the organization during and after the transition on tasks important to the growth and future of AmSkills.

The board of directors will begin a formal search for a new permanent CEO in the coming months. In the meantime, the board has appointed Peter Buczynsky as interim CEO. 

Buczynsky, a founding partner of AmSkills, brings extensive experience in organizational growth, manufacturing leadership and workforce development. He has also served as CEO of Pharmaworks, a company he co-founded and sold in 2020.

“Tom’s contributions shaped AmSkills into the strong organization it is today,” Buczynsky said. “As we move forward, my focus is on strengthening our direction, reinforcing our mission, and positioning AmSkills for long-term sustainability and growth.”

AmSkills teaches high and home-school students and adults the foundational skills needed for a career in manufacturing using hands-on training. The 501c3 organization also gives these students the chance to explore multiple career paths in the manufacturing and public utility industries. Once completed, candidates are eligible for paid, semi-skilled jobs or skilled apprenticeship opportunities.

Under Buczynsky’s leadership, AmSkills will continue advancing its core pillars:

  • Registered Apprenticeships focusing on industrial maintenance, to help public utilities, manufacturing and technical industries recruit, train and retain talent to meet growing workforce demands.
  • Career Discovery Bootcamps that create pathways for under-employed individuals, at-risk populations and adults seeking career transformation.
  • Youth Technical Training Programs that provide standardized, hands-on instruction to prepare students for careers in manufacturing and the skilled trades.

Light the World Giving Machine launches in Tampa Bay

December 20, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Tampa Bay residents are invited to celebrate generosity in a whole new way this holiday season – through vending machines. Photo courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

CLEARWATER – Have you ever bought a goat from a vending machine? How about warm clothing for a child, groceries for a family or job training for someone seeking a fresh start?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints invites Tampa Bay residents to experience the joy of giving through the Light the World Giving Machine.

Instead of dispensing snacks or drinks, this Giving Machine allows shoppers to choose charitable items, ranging from local support services to global humanitarian aid, using a simple touchscreen. Photo courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The red vending machines make it easy to donate essential items locally to those in need.

Now through Jan. 3, visitors to Clearwater Mall, 2719 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Suite. 1120, Clearwater (at the Crumbl Cookies storefront) can use the Giving Machine to buy charitable gifts such as meals, hygiene kits, clothing, livestock and more for individuals and families supported by trusted, local and global nonprofit organizations.

Every item purchased at the Clearwater Mall Giving Machine directly benefits one of five participating Tampa Bay-area charities and two global charities: Metropolitan Ministries, Premier Community HealthCare, The Spring of Tampa Bay, CASA Pinellas, The Shepherd Center of Tarpon Springs, Mentors International (Global) and Splash (Global).

“Domestic violence impacts so many families in our community,” said Lariana Forsythe, CEO of CASA Pinellas. 

“Support like this ensures CASA can help local survivors and their children find hope and healing.”

Tampa residents Patrick and Anne Thornton said the Christmas season wouldn’t be complete without a chance to give to others. They’re excited to help neighbors via the Giving Machine. 

On the web: GivingMachine.org

Bilirakis applauds expansion of newborn screening 

December 19, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) praised the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ decision to add Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Metachromatic Leukodystrophy to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel.

Bilirakis joined HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., members of Congress, patient advocates and families at the Dec. 16 announcement. 

“As co-chair of the Congressional Rare Disease Caucus, I have worked for years to expand newborn screening so that no child suffers because of a lack of diagnosis,” Bilirakis said. “This action will help ensure earlier diagnoses, better treatments and more hope for families – while also advancing research and innovation for rare diseases.”

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Metachromatic Leukodystrophy are often not diagnosed until children are 4 or 5 years old, after irreversible damage has occurred. Adding these conditions to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel will give families critical answers at birth, allowing children to access FDA-approved therapies at the most effective stage and potentially change the course of their lives.

Bilirakis emphasized the significance of the Beacham family’s participation in the announcement. Their daughter’s personal journey shows the life-changing impact of early newborn screening.

“This decision represents a monumental step forward rooted in compassion and science,” Bilirakis said. “I want to ensure children like Mattie have the best possible start in life. Early screening can mean the difference between years of uncertainty and pain, and a future filled with timely care, informed decisions and hope.”

The Recommended Uniform Screening Panel serves as a federal recommendation for universal newborn screening, with states determining implementation. Bilirakis encouraged states to move swiftly to adopt the new screenings.

 

Health & Wellness (12/24/25): Foundation opens access to health

December 18, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Attendees of the Community Health Fair will have access to a wide range of resources and support. This includes preventive health screenings, dental care, mental health support and personal care services such as showers, haircuts and manicures. A mobile pharmacy and pantry will be on-site. Photo courtesy of Pioneer Medical Foundation

 

The Community Health Fair is a free event open to the public. Photo courtesy of Pioneer Medical Foundation

Tampa Bay residents can get free medical resources

TAMPA – Pioneer Medical Foundation hopes to bridge the gap some residents across Tampa Bay face when it comes to access to medical care and critical community resources.

The nonprofit will host its fifth annual Community Health Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 10 at Water Works Park, 1701 N. Highland Ave., Tampa. 

Physicians, volunteers and community partners will provide medical attention, social support and resources.

“We design this gathering around the needs we see in our community,” said Ano Kashumba, executive director of Pioneer Medical Foundation. “From preventive medical screenings to clothing and job support, the event is a one-stop opportunity for people to take their next step with confidence.”

Since its inception, the Community Health Fair has served more than 1,000 people who might not otherwise have access to care. 

Last year, nearly 200 community members received dental extractions, blood pressure and diabetes screenings, warm meals and follow-up treatment. One participant’s mammogram revealed a potential health concern and was quickly connected to lifesaving care.

“From day one, Pioneer Medical Foundation has been guided by a simple principle: high-quality health care should be accessible to everyone and strong communities are built when no one is left behind,” said Dr. S. Ifran Ali, president and CEO of Pioneer Medical Group. “The Community Health Fair is a tangible expression of that mission, bringing together volunteers, physicians and partners to remove barriers and make a real difference in people’s lives.”

The initiative expands its offerings with lung cancer screenings in partnership with Moffitt Cancer Center and on-site mammograms through AdventHealth.

 

Pasco County Fire Rescue pioneers life-saving care

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County Fire Rescue is launching its new Prehospital Blood Transfusion Program beginning Dec. 17. 

The groundbreaking initiative brings life-saving blood directly to patients before they ever reach the hospital.

Pasco County Fire Rescue is one of only two fire departments in the Tampa Bay area providing this advanced level of care. Specially trained critical care team members will carry blood supplies and respond directly to trauma scenes when a transfusion is needed.

“Administering blood right at the scene means patients get critical care at the very moment they need it most,” Fire Chief Ryan Guynn said. “This program marks a major step forward in trauma care for our community.”

Severe blood loss is one of the most dangerous complications in trauma emergencies, accounting for nearly 40% of trauma-related deaths. 

Follow Pasco County Fire Rescue on Facebook, X and Instagram to learn about upcoming blood drives.

On the web: mypas.co/FireRescue

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding support 

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North offers a free in-person breastfeeding support group and class in January.

Events are open to all, regardless of which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your children. The events will be 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 and others) The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. The support group will be held Jan. 15, 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. The class will be held Jan. 15, 1 to 5 p.m.

Register for the free events by visiting BayCareEvents.org and choosing “St. Joseph’s Hospital-North” in the “Facility/Location” filter and scrolling to the group or class you are interested in attending. Or, you can also register by phone by calling 855-314-8352 and pressing the number “2” at the prompt.

 

Get answers on Medicare

ST. PETERSBURG – SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas.

Specially trained volunteers can assist with Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information.

They’ll answer questions at the following Medicare programs: 

  • Jan. 7 at noon at the Largo Public Library, 120 Central Park Drive, Largo. 727-587-6715 ext. 2508
  • Jan. 8 at 10 a.m. at the New Port Richey Library, 5939 Main St., New Port Richey. 727-853-1279
  • Jan. 15 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL-54, Wesley Chapel. 813-788-6375
  • Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. 813-929-1214
  • Jan. 21 at 11 a.m. at the Pinellas Park Library, 7770 52nd St. N., Pinellas Park. 727-369-0669
  • Jan. 21 at 1 p.m. at the Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-893-1073
  • Jan. 22 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th St., Dade City. 352-567-3576

SHINE services are free, unbiased and confidential. Counselors do not sell anything. They can be reached by calling 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.

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