The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

News Briefs (8/27/25): Volunteers needed for countywide cleanup

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Volunteers needed for countywide cleanup

PASCO COUNTY – Keep Pasco Beautiful is partnering with Pasco County for its annual Keep Pasco Beautiful Cleanup. 

The annual countywide event takes place from 8 a.m. to noon Sept. 20 at various Pasco County locations. Register to volunteer through Sept. 8.  

Disposable gloves, trash bags and Keep Pasco Beautiful Cleanup T-shirts will be provided while supplies last.

This event is part of the International Coastal Cleanup coordinated by Ocean Conservancy.  

The Keep Pasco Beautiful Cleanup is a partnership among Keep Pasco Beautiful, Pasco County, the Rotary Club of New Port Richey, Reworld Pasco, the Surfing’s Evolution & Preservation Foundation and Tampa Bay Water. 

On the web: KeepPascoBeautiful.org

 

Chorus looking for members

SPRING HILL – Suncoast Harmony of Sweet Adelines International is a west-central Florida 4-part a cappella women’s chorus.

The group welcomes women who love to sing to come to its rehearsal on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 pm. at Salishan Retirement Living, Activities Room, 191 Astaire Lane in Spring Hill. Professional vocal training or the ability to read music are not prerequisites and all ranges of voices are welcome. 

Call Cindy 352-597-4376 for details. On the web: suncoast-harmony.com 

 

I Like it HOT! Festival to spice things up  

LARGO – Organizers say the 25th annual I Like It HOT! Festival is sure to spice things up. 

Expect award-winning hot sauce vendors, spicy food trucks, fiery eating challenges and live contests including the Extreme Lolli Lick-A-Thon by SaucyQueen (the hottest lollypop in the world, sponsored by Intensity Academy), The World’s Hottest Cinnamon Roll, Fiery Wing Contest and now an official League of Fire Challenge with contestants coming from all over the nation (apply at https://leagueoffire.com/).

The festival takes place Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Largo Event Center, 6264 126th Ave N, Largo. Admission and parking are free.  

On the web: https://instagram.com/ilihfest/

 

‘Oklahoma!’ debuts on stage Oct. 10

BROOKSVILLE – Seats are available for Live Oak Theatre’s production of  “Oklahoma!”

Set in the Oklahoma Territory in 1906, on the eve of statehood, “Oklahoma!” follows the love story of Curly McLain, a charming cowboy, and Laurey Williams, a fiercely independent farm girl. Their romance is complicated by Jud Fry, a dark and obsessive farmhand who also has feelings for Laurey.

The show will be performed Oct. 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 and 26 at the Carol and Frank Morsani Center for the Arts, 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. Friday and Saturday evening shows start at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday matinees start at 2:30 p.m. Doors open approximately 30 minutes before showtime.

Seats cost $25 for adults and $10 for children 13 and younger with the purchase of an adult seat. 

Go to https://www.liveoaktheatre.org/current-production,  email or call 352-593-0027 to reserve seating. 

 

Pack meals for 9/11 National Day of Service

TAMPA – More than 1,200 volunteers will pack more than 367,500 healthy, non-perishable meals for those at risk of hunger to mark the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and Hunger Action Month.

Meals will be donated to Feeding Tampa Bay for distribution to people and families in need.

The service project will be held from noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 11 at the Yuengling Center, 12499 USF Bull Run Drive.

Now in its third year, the Tampa Meal Pack for 9/11 Day is one of 24 large-scale volunteer service projects being organized throughout the nation by the nonprofit 9/11 Day.

 

Woman’s Club cleans up Lutz Memorial Park

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The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club members (back row, from left) Nancy Danner, Nancy Taylor, (front row, from left) Dee Knerr, Michelle Haskins, Pennee Bowen and Jean Olsen helped clean Lutz Memorial Park. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen
This was before the cleanup of Lutz Memorial Park. Photos courtesy of Pennee Bowen

LAND O’ LAKES – The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club continues to make a visible difference in the community. 

Members of the Civic Engagement Community Service Program, joined by other volunteers from the club, gave Lutz Memorial Park a facelift.

They cleared overgrown areas and removed debris. Neglected spaces now look refreshed and ready for the next phase of beautification.

With cleanup complete, the group is now shifting focus to the next step – choosing what to plant.

 

Health & Wellness (8/27/25): Hospital honored for stroke care

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Hospital honored for stroke care 

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North received the American Heart Association’s and American Stroke Association’s  “Get With The Guidelines Stroke 2025 Bronze” quality achievement award. 

The recognition is for the Lutz hospital ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, leading to more lives saved, shorter recovery times and fewer hospital readmissions.

Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S. Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.

 

BayCare surgeon to discuss breast health

LUTZ – Dr. Diane Durgan, a BayCare Medical Group breast surgeon, will give a free presentation on “Breast Health 101”

The presentation starts at noon Sept. 3 at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, 4211 Van Dyke Road, Lutz. 

The lecture will include breast cancer warning signs, diagnostic tools, treatment options and possible surgical management strategies. The event will include a question-and-answer session. A light lunch will be served.

The event is free but St. Joseph’s Hospital-North asks attendees to please register. Register by visiting BayCareEvents.org and choosing “St. Joseph’s Hospital-North” in the “Facility/Location” filter and scrolling to the September 3 listing. Or call 855-314-8352 and press the number “2” at the prompt. 

Call 855-269-4777 for more information about Durgan’s talk.

 

Bilirakis tries to make Medicare less confusing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – ​​U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and others introduced the BENES 2.0 Act to protect Americans approaching Medicare eligibility from costly and confusing enrollment penalties. 

“I’ve heard from many constituents who were confused by their Medicare options and ended up paying significant penalties due to simple misunderstandings about how the program works,” Bilirakis said. “We addressed some of those challenges with the original BENES Act, which is now law.”

The BENES 2.0 Act requires the federal government to send Medicare eligibility and enrollment details in Social Security statements, giving individuals ages 60 to 65 clear and early guidance.

 

Hospital opens Family Medicine Residency Clinic

OCALA – AdventHealth Ocala has opened a Family Medicine Residency Practice, expanding access to care and training future physicians. 

The clinic at 221 SW 11th Street includes 20 exam rooms, two procedure rooms, a lab, a classroom, and 15 offices. 

Eight graduate medical residents will train alongside experienced physicians as part of AdventHealth Ocala’s inaugural residency class. 

Leaders, faculty, residents and community members celebrated the opening with a ribbon-cutting on Aug. 14. 

The new program emphasizes outpatient family medicine and AdventHealth’s whole-person care model, preparing residents to deliver compassionate, high-quality care to patients.

 

Three sets of twins born days apart

OCALA – AdventHealth reported three sets of twins born days apart at The Baby Place at AdventHealth Ocala.

Team members at The Baby Place have been providing around-the-clock care for three sets of twins in AdventHealth Ocala’s Level II NICU. The group included a set of twin girls born on July 27, a twin boy and girl born on July 29, and another set of twin girls on July 31. 

“Welcoming a new member of the family is always a special moment,” said Lacey Null, nurse manager. “The arrival of these children is a true blessing for their families and for our team. We are honored to provide the best possible care for them.”

 

Get answers on Medicare

  1. 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 Basics programs: 

  • Sept. 4 at 10 a.m. at the New Port Richey Library, 5939 Main St., New Port Richey. 727-853-1279
  • Sept. 11 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th St., Dade City. 352-567-3576
  • Sept. 18 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL-54, Wesley Chapel. 813-788-6375
  • Sept. 20 at 10 a.m. at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. 813-929-1214
  • Sept. 23 at 10:30 a.m. at the Centennial Park Library, 5740 Moog Road, Holiday. 727-834-3204.

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.

 

Hospitals support Pasco-Hernando State College

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A breakfast check presentation was held Aug. 14 at the PHSC West Campus Conference Center. Photo courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College recognized HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital, HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital and HCA Florida Trinity Hospital for their financial contributions totaling $20,000.

The support will enable PHSC to award up to 30 annual scholarships during the 2025-26 academic year.

In 2024, HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital provided the matching funds for the Linking Industry to Nursing Education Fund that enabled PHSC to award the Excellence in Achievement Scholarship to 10 PHSC Nursing students during the spring 2025 term. 

The hospital’s most recent gift will provide scholarships to students enrolled in a nursing program during the upcoming academic year.

“We are deeply grateful for the generous support for our healthcare students,” President Eric Hall said. “Investments in scholarships help ensure that financial barriers do not stand in the way of developing the next generation of skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals.”

HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital designated its funds toward the HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital Medical Student Annual Scholarship, while HCA Trinity Hospital designated its funds toward the HCA Florida Trinity Hospital Scholarship, which benefits students enrolled in the nursing and allied health programs.

“We are grateful for the continued support of HCA Florida and our local hospitals,” said Lisa Richardson, vice president of advancement, innovation and strategic partnerships. “Their partnership and generosity over the years have provided financial support to countless students pursuing a career in the healthcare field.”

 

Business Digest (8/27/25): Company winks at Taylor Swift

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Company winks at Taylor Swift

TAMPA BAY – After Taylor Swift dropped hints that her 12th studio album would embrace bright orange and mint green, major brands rushed to roll out orange-splashed campaigns. 

College HUNKS Hauling Junk & Moving joined the Swift color frenzy with a wink and a nod to its long-standing look. The Tampa Bay-based moving and junk company sent a playful post connecting its brand to Swift’s teased orange-and-mint-green aesthetic.

“College HUNKS is honored to be selected by Taylor Swift for her new album color inspo!” joked Nick Friedman, College HUNKS co-founder.  “Taylor, if you wanted to join our team, why didn’t you just ask?”

“Taylor, we’re loving your new aesthetic,” added Friedman. “But you know … Tampa Bay had it first.”

 

Chamber seeks board members

WESLEY CHAPEL – The North Tampa Bay Chamber is accepting applications through Sept. 19 to join its board of directors.

The chamber has three openings for the 2025-26 fiscal year. People with decision-making roles within the business, professional services or healthcare sectors are preferred. Members serve three-years terms. 

The chamber works to strengthen the business community of Wesley Chapel,  New Tampa, Trinity and Odessa.

 

GTE Financial makes workplace list

TAMPA – GTE Financial was included in American Banker’s 2025 Best Credit Unions to Work For. The firm ranked 20th among the 68 credit unions on the national list.

This award is presented in partnership with Best Companies Group and is based on a two-part employee survey process. GTE achieved a 91% overall satisfaction rating.

“As GTE celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2025, I continue to be astonished and grateful for our caring and talented team that provides hope, help, and real value back to our members and the local community every day,” President and CEO Brian Best said. 

On the web: gtefinancial.org

 

SBA opens nominations for awards

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Small Business Administration opened nominations for the 2026 National Small Business Week Awards. 

Visit sba.gov/nsbw to nominate a small business and download related forms, criteria and guidelines. All nominations must be submitted electronically by 7 a.m. Dec. 8. National awards will be presented during a ceremony in Washington, D.C., next May during National Small Business Week.

Nominations will be accepted for numerous other categories, including small business exporting awards, disaster recovery awards and federal procurement awards. 

On the web: sba.gov/nsbw

 

Florida adds 7,300 jobs in July 2025

TALLAHASSEE – Florida’s employment continues to increase, adding 7,300 jobs over the month in July 2025, according to FloridaCommerce. 

Florida’s total private sector employment increased by 118,900 (+1.4%) over the year in July 2025.

The industries that gained the most jobs in July 2025 were the financial activities sector, adding 5,200 jobs; the leisure and hospitality sector, adding 1,600 jobs; and the government sector, adding 1,600 jobs.

As of July 2025, Florida employers have added jobs in 59 of the last 63 months since May 2020. Florida’s statewide unemployment rate was 3.7% in July 2025 and has been lower than the national rate for 57 consecutive months since November 2020.

 

FloridaCommerce sees results with loan program

TALLAHASSEE – Since January 2023, FloridaCommerce and the Florida Opportunity Fund, collectively, have provided more than $250 million in loans and venture capital investments to 220 small businesses through the State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 program.

This has generated more than $948 million in matching private investment. 

Florida’s SSBCI capital programs facilitate and expand access to funds for small businesses who would otherwise not be able to receive funding and provide businesses with additional resources to facilitate growth and economic development.

FloridaCommerce partnered with Florida First Capital Finance Corporation and the Florida Small Business Development Center Network on the program.

On the web: floridajobs.org/FloridaSSBCI

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host evening networking opportunities.

  • President Hope Kennedy explains the perks of membership during New Member Orientation from 9 to 10 a.m. Aug. 27 at North Tampa Bay Chamber Office (Wiregrass Mall), 28329 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. Register in advance. 
  • Members let loose during Final Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. Aug. 29 at Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, 19729 State Road 54, Lutz. 
  • Members network during a Tampa Bay Rays baseball game from 6 to 11 p.m. Sept. 3 at Steinbrenner Field, 1 Steinbrenner Drive, Tampa. Members can buy tickets from the chamber by Sept. 2. 

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, member celebrations and young professionals networking. 

  • Members hold a ribbon cutting from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 27 at X-Golf Tampa, 9050 Tryon Blvd., Trinity. Register in advance. 
  • Members exchange company literature during Trinity Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 28 at Catered By VESH, 5811 Richey Drive, Port Richey. Register in advance. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Food costs $15. Register in advance. 
  • Kaitlynn Zajecka, of Scooter’s Coffee, talks about “Marketing in the Social Media Age” during the Greater Pasco Young Professionals group’s Coffee Connections event from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 29 at Starkey Market, 3460 Starkey Blvd.,Trinity. 
  • Members celebrate the grand reopening of Hampton Inn and Suites – Port Richey from noon to 2 p.m. Aug. 29 at 11050 U.S. 19, Port Richey. They’ll cut the ribbon at 12:30 p.m. 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 Annual Celebration and Coffee & Networking events.

  • The chamber holds its Annual Celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. Aug. 28 at Pasco County Fairgrounds – Dan Cannon Auditorium, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City. Register in advance. 
  • Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Sept. 2 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. The Zephyrhills event that would have taken place Aug. 29 has been canceled. Register in advance. 

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

 

Chalk Talk (8/27/25): Land O’. Lakes native graduates from academy

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Land O’ Lakes’ Syversen graduates from academy

KINGS POINT, NY – Jacob David Syversen recently graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy.

Syversen earned a Bachelor of Science degree and a commission in the Armed Forces. He also earned a Merchant Marine officer license. 

Syversen, a graduate of Academy at the Lakes, is the son of Troy and Melissa Syversen, of Land O’ Lakes, 

The United States Merchant Marine Academy is one of five U.S. federal service academies. It educates and graduates licensed Merchant Marine officers to serve the nation during peace and war. 

In addition to the rigorous academic and physical requirements for admission, applicants must be nominated by their congressman or senator. Syversen was nominated by Congressman Gus Bilirakis.

 

Trustees to review course-related fee adjustment 

DADE CITY – Pasco-Hernando State College’s District Board of Trustees will consider approving a proposed adjusted course-related fee at its Sept. 16 board meeting.

Fee adjustment proposals are reviewed and approved for board consideration by PHSC’s Council of Academic Affairs, a committee that includes representation by administrators, deans, academic department chairs, program directors, faculty and staff.

Visit policies.phsc.edu/policies-and-procedures/public-disclosure for details regarding proposed fees adjustments, justification for the fees and fee implementation details. 

Many fee adjustments relate to vendor increases for workforce courses, laboratories and program testing. Some fees may be covered by financial aid, scholarships and grants. All fees charged by vendors are negotiated by the college, with additional fee increases and decreases expected in the coming academic year.

PHSC has not raised tuition since the 2012-13 academic year.

 

PHSC receives $500,000 from Orlando Health 

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Institute for Nursing and Allied Health Advancement addresses workforce shortages in nursing and allied health fields within the region. 

Housed at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, the collaboration brings together educational institutions and healthcare organizations.

“At a time when our communities face urgent health care staffing shortages, PHSC is proud to lead the way in developing collaborations that will work to increase the pipeline for both highly qualified faculty and expertly trained employees in the nursing and allied health care fields,” President Eric Hall said. 

Orlando Health recently established a fund to support nursing and health care services with a gift of $500,000 to the PHSC Foundation. Andy Gardiner, an executive with Orlando Health, described the contribution as an investment into the future of nursing and healthcare throughout the region. 

 

Saint Leo offers new business programs

ST. LEO – The Tapia College of Business at Saint Leo University is introducing some new minors, a new MBA specialization in finance, and a new bachelor’s degree in business administration that includes three specializations.

New minors are business analytics and sport business communication and broadcasting.

The sport business communication and broadcasting minor will explore how to deliver content and stories across various platforms. The business analytics minor provides insight and experience in the application of data analytics principles within a business context. 

The new Bachelor of Arts Business Administration Triad Program combines three specializations within the business administration major: management, marketing and communication.

Also being offered this year is a Master of Business Administration degree with a concentration in finance.

 

College offers IT program online

ST. LEO – The College of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Data Science (CARDS) at Saint Leo University will offer its Master of Science in Computer Science Degree online to make it more accessible to students.

The master’s degree has been offered at University Campus since 2021.

“The course content translates easily to a virtual platform, where it can be updated to keep up with current tech,” said Derek Mohammed, dean of the College of CARDS. “Since Tampa Bay is an emerging area for IT, this program is great for people looking for IT credentials to make a career change or advance their careers.”

 

Quick Hits

  • Chao Wang, of Tampa, received the doctor of chiropractic degree from National University of Health Sciences in Lombard, Illinois. 
  • GTE Financial recently recognized 54 local students with $3,000 scholarships. This investment totaled $162,000.

 

Small business advocates win statewide awards

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TAMPA – Several members of the Florida Small Business Development Center at University of South Florida were recognized during the 2025 Florida SBDC Network’s Performance Excellence Awards on Aug. 18 at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay.

The statewide event celebrates outstanding contributions across Florida’s nine regional small business development centers.

“It was a true honor to attend the Florida SBDC Network’s Annual Awards Celebration and recognize our incredible team members for their hard work, dedication and years of service,” said Carl Hadden, regional director of the Florida SBDC at USF. “Their commitment to supporting small businesses continues to make a lasting impact across our 10-county Tampa Bay region.”

 

Aubri Shauger-Haley won the Laura Subel Lifetime Achievement Award. Photo courtesy of Florida SBDC at USF

Laura Subel Lifetime Achievement Award: Aubri Shauger-Haley

Aubri Shauger-Haley won the Laura Subel Lifetime Achievement Award for her contributions to Florida’s small business community. 

Shauger-Haley serves as a business manager and procurement specialist for the Small Business Enterprise Program at Pinellas County. She also works as a business consultant for the Florida SBDC at Pinellas County Economic Development subcenter. 

She has helped Florida small businesses secure more than $75 million in government contracts. 

 

Stephanie Ordoñez won the Ambassador of the Year Award. Photo courtesy of Florida SBDC at USF

Ambassador of the Year Award: Stephanie Ordoñez

Stephanie Ordoñez, communications and marketing officer at the Florida SBDC at USF, has been named the Florida Ambassador of the Year. 

The award recognizes her advocacy and dedication to promoting the resources and services of the Florida SBDC at USF. Ordoñez leads efforts to raise awareness of the center’s no-cost consulting and training opportunities for small businesses. 

She helps amplify the impact of the Florida SBDC at USF in the entrepreneurial community through social media campaigns. 

 

Service Awards

Several team members were also recognized for their years of service: 

  • 15 years: Selma Canas, Kurt Forster and Yolanda Goodloe.
  • 10 years: Karen Krymski and Corey McCaster.
  • 5 years: Greg Manning. 

 

Hillsborough pet shelter takes steps to save pets

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TAMPA – Hillsborough County says 150,000 pets have been saved at the Pet Resource Center since the county improved the live-release rate at the shelter 13 years ago.

Back in 2012, about 12,000 dogs and cats were euthanized, nearly two-thirds of the pets brought to the shelter. Today, the Pet Resource Center’s live-release rate is above 90%.

It took 10 years to reach 100,000 pets saved, a milestone reached in October 2022. It has taken less than three years for that number to reach 150,000.  Of the 150,406 dogs and cats saved, 101,133 were adopted, 27,643 returned home and 21,630 were sent to rescue groups. 

These numbers stand out more when you consider the Pet Resource Center is an open-admission shelter, meaning it accepts all dogs and cats regardless of age, medical condition or breed.  

Among the policy and practical changes responsible for the dramatic improvement in live-release rates and the accompanying drop in euthanasia:

  • Creating a pet support team that helps residents keep their pets rather than turning them over to the shelter. Team members can help resolve issues with pet behavior, provide food and supplies, and even arrange medical care.
  • Actively working with more than 300 pet rescue groups.
  • Establishing a foster program that allows residents to take pets home for as little as a week. The program helps clear shelter space and provides information about the pets’ behavior and personality. Many of the pets are adopted by the foster parents or their friends or families.
  • Establishing pet-enrichment programs such as dog play groups.
  • Spaying, neutering and evaluating pets so most dogs and cats can go home the same day people decide to adopt them.
  • Allowing residents to view nearly all available dogs and cats at the shelter through an online kennel that includes photos, medical information and behavioral notes.
  • Matching people with the right pet, which increases owner satisfaction and reduces return rates.
  • Increasing the number and variety of medical issues that can be treated at the shelter. Animals with ailments that almost automatically resulted in euthanasia a decade ago are now routinely treated at the shelter by veterinary staff and ultimately adopted.

Because the Pet Resource Center does not euthanize for space, the shelter is almost always full. Currently, the shelter is at about 120% capacity for dogs and 300% capacity for cats. Residents interested in adoption, fostering or volunteering can visit HCFL.gov/pets for details. 

 

What’s Happening (8/20/25): Fantasia Barrino to tour in Tampa

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Fantasia Barrino to tour in Tampa

TAMPA – Grammy Award-winning singer Fantasia Barrino is coming to Tampa’s Amalie Arena on Feb. 21 at 8 p.m. with special guest Anthony Hamilton. 

Fantasia first broke onto the scene in 2004 as the Season 3 winner of “American Idol.” 

She followed her “American Idol” win with the release of her platinum selling debut album, “Free Yourself” and debuted at No. 1 with her first single “I Believe.” “Truth,” the second single from the album, also claimed the No. 1 spot and remained for 14 weeks. 

Fantasia went on to release six additional studio albums, including her self-titled sophomore effort “Back to Me” (2010), “The Definition of…” (2016) and “Christmas After Midnight” (2017).

Joining Fantasia is Grammy Award winning singer Anthony Hamilton, who has achieved global sales of over 50 million albums. 

On the web: fantasiaofficial.com anthonyhamilton.com 

 

Aug. 20

Let’s Get Retro

South Holiday Library hosts old-school crafting for adults. Registration required. Call 727-834-3331 for details.

2-4 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

ClayWorks Open Studio (Session 2)

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center offers the second session of its ClayWorks class, focused on glazing ceramic pieces made in the first session. Participants must attend both classes and complete a safety and liability waiver before starting. For ages 8-18. Registration required. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

2-4 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Preteen Slime Making

Hugh Embry Library invites students in grades 4-7 to enjoy an hour of slime-making fun. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

3-4 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Chess Club for Kids & Teens

Learn and play chess with Chess Master-rated coach Rick McKnight at New River Library. For grades 4-12. Registration required. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

3:30-5:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Mat Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts mat yoga with instructor Michelle Mack. Bring a mat; the library does not provide mats. Space is limited, but registration is not required. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Teen Table

Teens in grades 8-12 can make personalized Rocky Road treats at Regency Park Library. Registration required. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

4-5 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Chess Club

The Hugh Embry Chess Club, a U.S. Chess Federation affiliate, meets weekly and welcomes all ages and skill levels. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

5:15-7:45 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Viola Recital

Hudson Regional Library hosts a live viola performance, free and open to all ages. Call 727-861-3040 for details.

6-6:30 p.m.; 8012 Library Road, Hudson

 

Writer’s Corner

Land O’ Lakes Library hosts a monthly writing workshop for adults and high school students in grade 9 and up. Participants share their work and provide constructive feedback. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

6-7 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

English Conversation Corner

Trained tutors at Land O’ Lakes Library help improve reading, writing, and speaking skills for ESL learners and English speakers. Call 813-929-1214 to reserve a seat.

6-7:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Aug. 21

Storytime Fun!

Zephyrhills Public Library invites toddlers and preschoolers for a fun, interactive storytime filled with reading, singing and dancing. Space is limited; registration is not required. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

10-10:20 a.m. or 10:30-10:50 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Tech Help 

Hugh Embry Library staff assist with computer and mobile device basics. Bring your own device or use a public computer. Registration required. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

10-11 a.m. or 11 a.m.-noon; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Mahjong

Join weekly Mahjong play at Hudson Regional Library. Call 727-861-3040 for details.

10 a.m.-noon; 8012 Library Road, Hudson

 

Baby Storytime

Regency Park Library offers a lap-sit storytime for babies up to 1 year old and their caregivers. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Preschool Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library offers stories and songs for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

10:15-10:45 a.m. or 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Preschool Storytime

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center invites ages 3-5 for stories, songs and fun activities with Ms. Christy. Space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

10:15-11 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

SHINE: Medicare 101

New River Library hosts a Medicare overview with SHINE volunteer Geralyn, covering benefits to review each year. Call 727-570-9696 ext. 234 for details.

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library Social

Enjoy refreshments and conversation with the Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library. This drop-in event is a chance to meet others, share ideas, and have fun. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

10:30 a.m.-noon; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Mahjong at New River

Join volunteer Stefanie for Mahjong at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

11 a.m.-1 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Preschool Storytime

Regency Park Library offers stories, songs, and activities for children ages 3-5 and their caregivers. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

11:15 a.m.-noon; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Tech Help by Appointment

Centennial Park Library offers one-on-one technology help for smartphones, tablets, or computers with volunteer Jon. Available by appointment every other Thursday. Registration required. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

1-3 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Free Art Closet

Centennial Park Library’s Free Art Closet offers supplies such as jewelry findings, beads, yarn, knitting needles, crochet hooks, brushes, paint, art books, and more, to make art accessible to all. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Made possible by the Friends of the Centennial Park Library and community donors. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

3-4:50 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Mat Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts mat yoga with instructor Michelle Mack. Bring a mat; the library does not provide mats. Space is limited, but registration is not required. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills


Tween Try It: DIY Rocky Road

Tweens in grades 4-7 can make personalized Rocky Road treats at Regency Park Library. Registration required. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

4:30-5:30 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Teen Volunteer Orientation and Training

Centennial Park Library offers orientation for new teen volunteers and training for current volunteers. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

5-6 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Yarn for a Cause

Join fellow yarn enthusiasts at New River Library to share projects and tips. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

6-7 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Artisan Vibes: Beaded Plants

South Holiday Library offers its monthly adult crafting and networking event, featuring beaded plant making. Registration required. Call 727-834-3331 for details.

6-7 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Aug. 22

Thrifty Crafters

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts a creative and thrifty craft project session. Registration required. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

9:30-10:30 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Toddler Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library offers storytime for toddlers ages 1-2 and their caregivers. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

9:45-10:05 a.m., 10:15-10:35 a.m., or 11:15-11:35 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

English Conversation Corner

Hugh Embry Library offers English language learning with trained tutors for adults, including ESL learners and English speakers wanting to improve reading and writing skills. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

10-11:30 a.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Book Sale

The Friends of the New River Library host a summer book sale. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Arts & Crafts Fair

Zephyrhills Public Library offers arts and craft supplies for a donation to the Friends of the Library. Items include yarn, tulle, glass jars, blocks of wood and more, plus some completed projects from the Thrifty Crafters program. Most items are available for a donation of your choosing; some will be priced. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

Noon-4:30 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Ukulele Jam with TBUS

Join the Tampa Bay Ukulele Society for a jam session at Hugh Embry Library, intended for intermediate to advanced players. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

1-3 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Creative Coloring for Adults

South Holiday Library offers weekly coloring for relaxation, with materials provided including gel pens, colored pencils, markers, and coloring pages. Presented by the Friends of the South Holiday Library. Call 727-834-3331 for details.

2-3 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Aug. 23

Arts & Crafts Fair

Zephyrhills Public Library offers arts and craft supplies for a donation to the Friends of the Library. Items include yarn, tulle, glass jars, blocks of wood and more, plus some completed projects from the Thrifty Crafters program. Most items are available for a donation of your choosing; some will be priced. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

9-11:30 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Photography Workshop

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center offers a hands-on class with stations to practice using aperture, shutter speed, and ISO for correct photo exposure. For ages 16+. Registration required. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

10 a.m.-noon; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Book Sale

The Friends of the New River Library host a summer book sale. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

10 a.m.-2 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Dungeons and Dragons Club

Centennial Park Library offers a safe space for tweens and teens ages 12-17 to learn and play Dungeons and Dragons. Character creation help is available; pre-made characters must be level 3 or lower. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

1-3 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

BayCare Health Screening

Land O’ Lakes Library hosts free health screenings including blood pressure, lipid, BMI, and glucose checks via finger stick. Screenings take about 10-15 minutes per person. Walk-ins welcome. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

1-4 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Coding Workshop for Teens: Part 2

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center hosts the second day of a two-part teen coding workshop. Learn to build a game using the Kaplay.js library through live coding. Participants may bring a laptop or borrow one. Registration required. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

2-4 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Tai Chi

Land O’ Lakes Library hosts Tai Chi with Dan Suede for adults of all skill levels. Please bring a yoga mat. Sponsored by the Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

3-4 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

English Conversation Corner

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center invites adults 18+ to practice English speaking, listening, reading, and writing in a casual setting with trained tutors. Materials provided. No registration required. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

3-4:30 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

English Conversation Corner

Trained tutors at New River Library help improve reading, writing, and speaking skills for ESL learners and English speakers. Call 813-788-6375 to reserve a seat.

3-4:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Aug. 25

Baby Bookworms Story Time

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center offers a lap-sit storytime with rhymes, songs, and interactive play for infants up to 18 months and their caregivers. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

10:15-11 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Chair Yoga

Land O’ Lakes Library offers beginner-friendly chair yoga taught in seated and standing positions using a chair as a prop. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Story Explorers

Regency Park Library explores Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault with crafts, games, sensory activities, and more. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

11 a.m.-noon; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Republican Club

The Republican Club of Central Pasco hosts Kevin Steele, Republican member for the 55th district of the Florida House of Representatives, at Heritage Park. The club offers refreshments at 6 p.m. Call Sandy Graves at 813-817-3011 for details. 

6:30 p.m.; 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Not Done Book Club

South Holiday Library’s book club meets at BarrieHaus Beer Co., Trinity, to discuss Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir. Copies are available at the library and digitally through eContent services. Recommended for ages 21+. Registration required. Call 727-834-3331 for details.

6-8 p.m.; 9945 Trinity Blvd., Trinity

 

Aug. 26

Medicare/Medicaid & SNAP Help

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts assistance with applying for the QMB state buy-in program to help pay for Medicare Part B, Medicaid, and SNAP (food stamps). Contact José Rodríguez at 813-420-3013 for details.

9 a.m.-noon or 1-4 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Career Source

Centennial Park Library hosts Career Source for help with job searches, resumes, interview preparation, and EmployFlorida assistance. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

10 a.m.-noon; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Book Sale

Browse books at the Friends of the Library’s weekly patio sale. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

10 a.m.-noon; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Woodworking Open Build

Land O’ Lakes Library offers time to use Makerspace tools for approved projects. Bring your own plans and materials. Ages 18+ or ages 9+ with an accompanying guardian. Closed-toe shoes and completed Makerspace forms required. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Toddler Storytime

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center hosts a ticketed program with stories, songs, and imaginative play for children ages 1-3 and their caregivers. Tickets are available at the service desk on a first-come, first-served basis, one per child present. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

10:10-10:40 a.m., 10:50-11:20 a.m., or 11:30 a.m.-noon; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Storytime

South Holiday Library offers stories, songs, games, and a craft for ages 3-5. Call 727-834-3331 for details.

10:15-11 a.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Storytime

Hudson Regional Library offers stories, songs, and dancing for young children and their caregivers. Call 727-861-3040 for details.

10:15-11 a.m. or 11-11:45 a.m.; 8012 Library Road, Hudson

 

Toddler Storytime

New River Library offers stories, songs, and dancing for toddlers. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

10:15-11 a.m. or 11 a.m.-noon; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Medicare Fraud/Scams

Centennial Park Library hosts SHINE from the Area Agency on Aging for a presentation on scams and fraud affecting older adults. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Homeschool Hangout

Regency Park Library invites elementary homeschoolers to connect, socialize, and participate in educational activities and games while learning about library resources. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Yarn for More

Join fellow yarn enthusiasts at Hugh Embry Library to share projects, tips, and ideas. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

12:15-1:45 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Mystery Book Club: The Madwomen of Paris

Join the New River Library book club to discuss The Madwomen of Paris by Jennifer Cody Epstein. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

2-3 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Tween/Teen Gaming!

Zephyrhills Public Library offers video and board games for ages 9 and up, with snacks provided. Space is limited, but registration is not required. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

3-4 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Scroll Saw 101

Learn to make wooden toys and projects on the scroll saw at Land O’ Lakes Library. For ages 16+. Closed-toe shoes and completed Makerspace forms required. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

3-5 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Read to the Sharing Our World Therapy Dogs

Practice reading skills with friendly certified therapy dogs at Regency Park Library. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

4:30-5:30 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Tween & Teen Portal Canvas Painting

Tweens ages 9-12 and teens ages 13-17 can join a painting session at South Holiday Library. All materials provided. Registration required. Call 727-834-3331 for details.

4:30-5:30 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Free Art Closet

Centennial Park Library’s Free Art Closet offers supplies such as jewelry findings, beads, yarn, knitting needles, crochet hooks, brushes, paint, art books, and more, to make art accessible to all. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Made possible by the Friends of the Centennial Park Library and community donors. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

5-6:50 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Learn to Paint and Draw (Better)

Centennial Park Library offers an art class with Earthchild Sarah covering the fundamentals of drawing and painting. For beginners to intermediate artists ages 18+. Registration required. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

5:30-7:30 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Middle/High School: Open Craft Studio

New River Library offers a craft studio for grades 6-12, with activities like greeting card making, stamp art, and origami. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

6-7 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

English Conversation Corner

Adults can improve English speaking, reading, and writing skills at Regency Park Library with trained tutors. For ESL learners and English speakers. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

6-7:30 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey