The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

What’s Happening (4/30/25): Russ hones in on unpredictability

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Russ focuses on the unpredictability of life 

TAMPA – Multi-platinum artist and producer Russ is hitting the road for the Into The W!LD Tour.

Produced by Live Nation, the 16-date tour includes a stop at MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheatre in Tampa. Russ will be joined by special guest, multi-platinum artist Big Sean and supported by GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter Sabrina Claudio for all dates.

The tour comes on the heels of Russ announcing his sixth studio album “W!LD,” set for release this summer, along with sharing the first two singles from the album “Movin” and “April 7.” Get tickets at russworld.com.

The new album focuses on the new perspective Russ has on the unpredictability of life and the tug and pull between resisting challenges and embracing them. “W!LD” is an exploration of his journey into the unknown.

To date, Russ has amassed over 22 billion career streams.

 

April 30

Teen Cooking Basics

Teens make breakfast wraps during Teen Cooking Basics at Regency Park Library. Registration is required. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

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

 

Chess Club

Chess Master-Rated coach Rick McKnight leads a Chess Club for kids and teens to learn and play chess. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

4-5:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Chess Club

The chess club at Hugh Embry Library meets weekly. The club, which is open to all ages and skill levels, is affiliated with the U.S. Chess Federation. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Zentangle Drawing

Enjoy the relaxing art of Zentangle at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Registration is required. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

6-7:30 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

May 1

Storytime Fun!

Read, sing and dance with your little learners (toddlers/preschoolers) in an interactive storytime at Zephyrhills Public Library. Toddler/Preschool. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Mahjong

Adults play Mahjong Thursdays at Hudson Regional Library. Call 727-861-3040 

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

 

Baby Storytime

Regency Park Library holds a Baby 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

Stories and songs for children ages 3-5 years and their caregiver. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Christy leads a Preschool Storytime for ages 3-5 at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center with stories, songs and activities. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

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

 

Mahjong

Adults play Mahjong at New River Library. Registration is required. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

Preschool Story Time

Regency Park Library holds a Preschool Story Time for ages 3-5 with stories, songs and assorted activities. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

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

 

Day of Prayer

Christian Social Services invites the community to an uplifting and spiritual afternoon during its National Day of Prayer Service at Land O’Lakes Church of God. A boxed lunch will follow the service  

Noon; 8337 Land O’Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Tech Help

Centennial Park Library offers Tech Help by appointment. Sign up at the library or call 727-834-3204 to schedule an appointment with technology volunteer Jon. Available by appointment every other Thursday between 1 and 3 p.m. Registration is required. Call 727-834-3204 for details. 

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

 

Yoga for Stress Relief

Ruben Vasquez leads a yoga class for stress relief at Land O’ Lakes Library. The free class offers fundamental techniques tailored to the level of ability and fitness of the participants with an emphasis on relaxation and mindfulness throughout the practice. Registration is required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

4:30-5:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

May 2

Preschool Praise and Play

Dade City First United Methodist Church opens its sanctuary every first Friday of the month for a free community preschool playtime. Enjoy a scripture story, music, craft and playtime with new friends. Activities are geared toward toddlers and preschoolers but all ages are welcome. Email with questions or text 833-374-4043 for a text reminder. 

9:30-10:30 a.m.; 37628 Church Ave., Dade City

 

AARP Smart Driver Safety Course

Drivers 50 and older learn defensive driving techniques, safety strategies, new traffic laws and rules of the road during an AARP Smart Driver Safety Course at Zephyrhills Public Library. There are no tests to pass. Bring lunch. Call Glenn Frances at 904-544-8734 to register.  

9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Toddler Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library hosts a Toddler Storytime for ages 1-2 and their caregiver. 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

 

Conversation Corner

Adult learners of English work on their reading and writing skills during English Conversation Corner at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Book Sale

The Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library holds a book sale at Land O’ Lakes Library. Fiction and nonfiction books cost $1 each. Paperbacks, youth, young adult and children books will be 25 cents or five books for a dollar. A fill a bag sale takes place 1 to 3 p.m., in which you can get a bag of dollar books for $5 or a bag of quarter books for $2. Cash or check only. The sale continues on May 3. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Creative Coloring for Adults

Adults let their creativity flow and stress melt away at South Holiday Library’s weekly coloring program. Materials will be provided including gel pens, colored pencils, markers and coloring pages. Creative Coloring for Adults is presented by the Friends of the South Holiday Library. Call 727-834-3331 for details.

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

 

Bingo

Adults play bingo for prizes at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

2-3 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St, Dade City

 

Open Studio

Centennial Park Library holds open studio hours for patrons to use its photo scanning equipment, negative scanners, mat cutter, large easels, drafting boards, art reference books or studio space. Patrons should bring projects to work on. Registration is required. Call 727-834-3204 for details on waivers and age requirements. 

3-5 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

May 3

Tri County Woodturners

The Tri County Woodturners’ Turn and Learn takes place at Land O’ Lakes Library. Skilled mentors guide participants. The event is intended for adults. All materials will be provided. Some previous lathe experience is required to register. All Makerspace programs require closed-toe shoes and completed waivers. Registration is required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

9 a.m.-noon or 12:30-3:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy, Land O’ Lakes

 

Author Fest 2025

Starkey Ranch TLC Friends of the Library sponsors the second annual Author Fest at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Enjoy storytimes, meet local authors and take part in workshops. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

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

 

Book Sale

The Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library holds a book sale at Land O’ Lakes Library. Fiction and nonfiction books cost $1 each. Paperbacks, youth, young adult and children books will be 25 cents or five books for a dollar. A fill a bag sale takes place 1 to 3 p.m., in which you can get a bag of dollar books for $5 or a bag of quarter books for $2. Cash or check only. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Women’s Day

Tampa Women’s Day presented by The Aesthetics Lab returns to the WestShore Plaza Mall with everything a woman wants together in one place. Enjoy free chair massages, brow waxing, haircuts and styling, express manicures, makeup tips and a selfie station. There will be free henna and temporary tattoos, a Latin dance class, Women’s Self-defense class and bingo games. Register at tampawomensday.eventbrite.com.

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; 250 Westshore Plaza, Tampa

 

Healthy Choices

PBS Kids’ educators lead a workshop at Regency Park Library on how to make healthy food choices and create  healthy snacks. Registration is required. Call 727-861-3049 for details.

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey 

 

Read to Rover

Young readers and their families can stop by Hugh Embry Library to read a book or offer a friendly pat to dogs from the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Book Club

The book club at New River Library discusses “A Living Remedy” by Nicole Chung. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

Open Studio

Centennial Park Library holds open studio hours for patrons to use its photo scanning equipment, negative scanners, mat cutter, large easels, drafting boards, art reference books or studio space. Patrons should bring projects to work on. Registration is required. Call 727-834-3204 for details on waivers and age requirements. 

11 a.m.-1 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Ukulele Jam 

Bring an ukulele and jam with the Tampa Bay Ukulele Society at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

English Conversation Corner

Trained tutors will be at New River Library to help with English reading, writing, and speaking skills. Call 813-788-6375 to save a seat at English Conversation Corner. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

May 7

Dade City First United Methodist Church invites the community to an evening of dinner and art at its Art Show Fundraiser. Enjoy a sit-down dinner and art showcase in the Christian Life Center. Artwork created by our children’s ministry will be available for purchase, as well as art from other local artists and vendors. Proceeds from this event support the Connected Kids Ministry.  Vendors are welcome. Email to apply.

5-7:30 p.m.; 37628 Church Ave., Dade City

 

May 10

Rose Show

The Tampa Rose Society presents the 53rd annual Rose Show. Beautiful flower arrangements are available for a donation just in time for Mother’s Day. 

Noon-5 p.m.; 205 Westshore Plaza, Tampa

 

May 12

Art Club

The Zephyrhills Art Club meets at First Baptist Church. The club offers demonstrations and workshops. The painting of the month is a still life. Guests and members use the back entrance. Call Sandra Lallemand at 352-523-1213 for details. 

7 p.m.; 38231 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills

 

May 17

Train Show

Regal Railways presents a Model Train Show/Sale at Hernando Fairgrounds. More than 70 tables of vendors will be on hand selling model trains, toys and more. There will be a running train layout. A vendor will be there selling food. Admission costs $6 for adults. Kids 12 and younger get in free. Prepay at www.regalrailways.com. Call Joe at 727-244-1341 for details about becoming a vendor or the show.

9 a.m.-2 p.m.; 6436 Broad St., Brooksville

 

News Briefs (4/30/25): Theater to screen Star Wars trilogy

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Tampa Theatre to screen Star Wars trilogy

TAMPA – Tampa Theatre is celebrating May the Fourth (aka Star Wars Day) by screening the original Star Wars trilogy. 

The film will be screen at the following times on May 4: 

  • 1 p.m. – “Star Wars: A New Hope” (1977).
  • 4 p.m. – “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” (1980).
  • 7 p.m. – “Star Wars: Return of the Jedi” (1983).

The celebration kicks off May 1 with a special screening of “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story” at 7 p.m. 

Tickets cost $7 for theater members and $10 for others. Get them at the Tampa Theatre Box Office (711 N. Franklin St.) or at www.TampaTheatre.org.

 

Theater group announces new slate of productions

WESLEY CHAPEL – The New Tampa Players has announced productions for its 2025-26 season.

The group will present “Oklahoma” in October 2025, “The SpongeBob Musical” in January 2026 and Annie in July 2026. 

Tickets are available for the upcoming production of “The Music Man” from July 25 to Aug. 3 at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center.

On the web: newtampaplayers.org

 

County under burn ban

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County was placed under an emergency burn ban April 22 for all areas of the county due to a prolonged lack of rainfall, resulting in an increased risk of brush fires.  

Under the ban, everyone living in unincorporated areas of Pasco County was prohibited from setting fires or causing fires, including open burning, campfires/bonfires and burning yard waste/garbage. Outdoor cooking in grills or smokers was OK.

The ban prohibited outdoor burning not specifically permitted by the Florida Forest Service. 

 

Animals services halts dog intakes due to pneumovirus

PASCO COUNTY – Following several positive cases of Canine Pneumovirus, Pasco County Animal Services closed dog adoptions, intakes, surgery and rescue transfers for 14 days through May 3.

PCAS remained open for cat only adoptions, surgeries, rescue transfers, vaccine and microchip clinics, pet licensing and owner-requested euthanasia needs.

“The health and safety of the animals in our care, as well as our community, has been and will always be our top priority,” PCAS Director Mike Shumate said. “While we understand this is an inconvenience for our residents, we appreciate your understanding during this time.”

 

Group pays tribute to veterans

DADE CITY – The Augusta Jane Evans Wilson Chapter held its annual Southern Memorial Day observance on Aug. 19 at Townsend House Cemetery. 

“Each year, we remember those veterans who served, and this year, we honored those interred at Townsend House Cemetery in Dade City,” said Lunelle McCallister, memorial committee chair.

As part of the observance, the veterans’ memorial was re-dedicated and a new flag raised on a flagpole.

Participants included a US Color Guard from the Zephyrhills Bulldog Army JROTC, a historic color guard from the Judah P. Benjamin Camp of the Sons of Confederate Veterans, and a bagpiper who performed special music.

The event included a memorial floral wreath that honored veterans through a Roll Call of Honor.

Southern Memorial Day, also known as Confederate Memorial Day, was first established in Georgia in 1866, and was later adopted by other states as floral tributes were made and veteran graves were tended.  The practice was emulated by the Grand Army of Republic and was the inspiration for Memorial Day which is observed in May.  

The Augusta Jane Evans Wilson Chapter 2640 has members located in Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Prospective members and supporters are invited to email .

On the web: AugustaJanesUDC.org

 

Club supports veterans

LAND O’ LAKES – The Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club and its youth counterpart, the Lutz Little Women, came together in a heartfelt show of support April 15 at St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport. 

They welcomed home veterans returning from Honor Flight 52.

The Honor Flight Network transports America’s veterans to Washington, D.C. free of charge, to visit the memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice. Upon their return, they are met with a warm, patriotic welcome – something many never received after their service, especially those who served in the Vietnam War.

One club member, Jeannie Stratis, took her support a step further by participating in the flight itself as a guardian, accompanying one of the veterans throughout the day.

The evening was filled with smiles, tears and gratitude from both the veterans and those there to honor them. 

On the web: gfwclutzlandolakeswomansclub.org

 

HART earns budgeting award

TAMPA – The Hillsborough Transit Authority earned the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award by the Government Finance Officers Association for its Fiscal Year 2025 budget.

HART’s budget document was evaluated against nationally recognized guidelines that assess how well it serves as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide, and communications tool. 

“The GFOA recognition reflects HART’s strong commitment to transparency and accountability,” Chief Financial Officer Loretta Kirk said. “It’s a proud moment for our team and a clear validation of our continued efforts to be responsible stewards of public resources while building trust with our community.”

On the web: goHART.org

Health & Wellness (4/30/25): Cancer center cheers milestone

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Moffitt Cancer Center cheers construction milestones 

LAND O’ LAKES  – Moffitt Cancer Center celebrated progress April 22 at SPEROS FL, its 775-acre global research park in Pasco County. 

About 300 people gathered to celebrate two key milestones: the topping out of the Moffitt Discovery & Innovation Center and the installation of the cyclotron that will power its proton therapy system.

The campus is projected to create more than 11,000 quality jobs over the next decade.

“The research center and proton therapy program are central to our vision for Speros, which will become a global destination for cancer breakthroughs and a place where world-class care and discovery are happening side by side in one place,” said Patrick Hwu, Moffitt president and CEO. 

The highlight of the event was the installation of the cyclotron, a particle accelerator that traveled more than 4,600 miles from Belgium and will serve as the heart of the ProteusONE proton therapy system. 

This technology offers precision in cancer treatment, reducing side effects and improving outcomes by targeting tumors with millimeter accuracy. 

Moffitt broke ground on Speros in January 2023 and will welcome its first patient on opening day in January 2026.

 

County using sterile mosquitoes to prevent disease

PASCO COUNTY – The Pasco County Mosquito Control District is releasing sterilized male Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in selected areas of Pasco County.

The goal is to reduce populations of this invasive species known to spread serious diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever.

Officials describe this as an “environmentally safe and scientifically proven method.” This comes after the county saw a cluster of locally transmitted Dengue Fever cases last year. 

“The Sterile Insect Technique is an exciting addition to our integrated mosquito management program,” said Adriane Rogers, executive director of the district. “It’s a non-genetically modified organism, non-toxic  method that has been used for decades around the world to control agricultural and public health threats and now, for the first time in our district’s nearly 75-year history, we’re bringing it to Pasco County to explore its potential as an additional long-term public health tool.”

 

Report explores air quality

TAMPA – According to the American Lung Association’s “State of the Air” report, released April 23, Tampa Bay residents are being exposed to unhealthy levels of ozone smog. 

The report grades exposure to unhealthy levels of ozone pollution, also known as “smog,” and particle pollution, also known as “soot,” over a three-year period (2021-2023). 

Findings for the Tampa Bay metro area include:

Ground-level Ozone Pollution:

  • Number of Unhealthy Days per Year: 1.3 days (1.3 days in 2024 report)
  • National Ranking: 115th worst out of 228 (71st worst in 2024 report)

Short-Term Spikes in Particle Pollution:

  • Number of Unhealthy Days Per Year: 0.3 days (0.3 days in 2024 report)
  • National Ranking: 177th worst out of 223 (124th worst in 2024 report)

Year-Round Average Level of Particle Pollution:

  • Grade: Passing grade, pollution levels below the federal standard (passing grade in 2024 report)
  • National Ranking: 155th worst out of 204 (99th worst in 2024 report)

 

Business Digest (4/30/25): Firm fights teen homelessness

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Coastal Construction exceeded its $80,000 goal for its inaugural charity golf tournament. Photo courtesy of Coastal Construction

Construction firm puts $95K toward teen homelessness

TAMPA – Coastal Construction is taking a stand against teen homelessness.

The company raised $95,000 from a charity golf tournament at Copperhead Golf Course in Palm Harbor to benefit Metropolitan Ministries’ annual Bridge Builders campaign.

“As builders, we don’t just construct buildings – we build hope,” said Sean DeMartino, president of Coastal Construction. “No teenager should have to face homelessness. Our communities are stronger when we come together to provide support and opportunities for those in need.”

Coastal Construction has been instrumental in shaping Tampa Bay’s skyline.

 

Chamber to award scholarships

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber Foundation plans to award $500 scholarships to graduating seniors in a partnership with the Pasco Education Foundation. 

The chamber opened sponsorships to member businesses. 

Scholarship recipients will be from these high schools:  Cypress Creek, Freedom, J.W. Mitchell, Kirkland Ranch, Land O’Lakes, Wesley Chapel, Wharton and Wiregrass Ranch. 

 

Hillsborough seeks applications for workforce board

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – Hillsborough County is seeking interested residents to serve on the CareerSource Hillsborough Pinellas Workforce Development Board.

This board provides policy guidance and oversight for workforce development activities for CareerSource Florida Region 28 (Hillsborough and Pinellas counties).

The county needs four reps from the business sector, three from the workforce sector and one from education and training. 

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host grand openings in addition to a Leading Ladies Network event. 

  • Members celebrate the grand opening of Just Pull It Dental from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 30 at 1942 Collier Pkwy., Lutz.  The ribbon cutting starts at 11:30 a.m. 
  • Cosmetologist Johanna Amarante discusses “Holistic Approaches to Hair Loss” during the Leading Ladies Network from 9 to 10:30 a.m. May 2 at USF Credit Union (conference room), 20610 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa. Register in advance. Registration costs $15.
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of BayCare Medical Group from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 8 at 4501 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Suite 205, Wesley Chapel. The ribbon cutting is at 11:30 a.m. Register in advance.

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a ribbon cutting and Medical Roundtable. 

  • Members welcome new ownership at Mia’s Pizza from 4 to 6 p.m. April 30 at 4051 Madison St., Suite 2, New Port Richey. The ribbon cutting starts at 5 p.m. Register in advance.
  • A rep from Journey Psychiatry serves as the guest speaker during the Medical Roundtable from 8 to 9 a.m. May 1 at Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, 6600 Madison St., New Port Richey. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will the Joe Kiefer Golf Tournament, Coffee & Networking and a ribbon cutting. 

  • Members meet for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. May 2 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s Zephyrhills Office, 38550 5th Ave., Zephyrhills. 
  • Members meet for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. May 6 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s Dade City Office, 14112 8th St., Dade City. 
  • The chamber celebrates the grand opening of AdventHealth Sports Med & Rehab from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 7 at 38233 Daughtery Road, Zephyrhills. The ribbon cutting starts at 11:15 a.m.

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

 

Chalk Talk (4/30/25) Student artwork supports art in schools

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The community can buy award-winning work to benefit Hillsborough County schools. Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office

Student artwork supports art education in schools

TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office celebrated the talents of fifth-grade students across the county at the annual Kids Tag Art Awards Ceremony on April 16 at Jefferson High School. 

The event recognized young artists while raising money to support art education in Hillsborough County schools.

The 2024-25 program saw participation from a record-breaking 65 schools, with over 3,100 student artists submitting original designs for specialty license plates. The event has raised over $104,000 for Hillsborough County school art programs since its inception four years ago.

“These young artists continue to amaze us with their creativity and talent,” Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy Millan said. “The Kids Tag Art program not only showcases their artistic abilities but also provides essential funding for art teachers to purchase much needed art supplies for the classroom.”

The program expanded its product offerings to include mouse pads, keychains and ceramic mugs featuring the students’ artwork, in addition to the metal license plates. The community can buy student-designed license plates and other products at hillstaxfl.gov. 

Proceeds from sales go back to school art programs to buy classroom art supplies, with participating schools receiving an average of $800 each.

 

Saint Leo University, particularly Honors programs, will receive a boost from Giving Day donations. Photo courtesy of Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University marks record-breaking Giving Day

SAINT LEO – Saint Leo University raised a record-breaking $1.2 million in 24 hours from more than 1,000 donations, making this its largest Giving Day in history. 

The funds will support more than 40 university programs and student-focused initiatives, including scholarships, academic departments, campus life programs and key athletic programs. 

“These contributions will directly support our efforts to provide rewarding educational experiences and expand access to students who are eager to make a difference in the world,” said Stephen Kubasek vice president of University Advancement.  

Daniel DuBois, honors program director, said the university will be able to support experiential learning for 290 honors students and instructors in the honors program

“Honors students will now be able to join the National Collegiate Honors Council, a nationwide organization of Honors programs, that will give our students conference presentation opportunities plus access to scholarships, fellowships, and educational travel opportunities.” 

The university accepts donations at your.saintleo.edu/donate.

 

Students, schools recognized for civic engagement

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer recognized VoteHillsborough Art and Voter Registration contest winners during the April 22 school board meeting.

The Supervisor of Elections Office holds voter registration drives in high schools every fall and spring semester. The five schools recognized for having the most successful voter registration drives this academic year were Sumner High School, Durant High School, East Bay High School, Gaither High School and Newsome High School.

Supervisor Latimer challenged elementary and middle school students to design a new Future Voter’ sticker to

encourage young people to learn more about voting and elections. The first-place stickers will be handed out during community outreach events.

Elementary school winners:

  • First place: Gabriel Angeli, Lowry Elementary School.
  • Second place: Ayaan Sangomola, Chiles Elementary School.
  • Third place: Sahana Venkatesh, Pride Elementary School.

Middle school winners:

  • First place: Lauren McGee, Randall Middle School.
  • Second place: Mahi Patel, Liberty Middle School.
  • Third place: Gabriela Sanchez, Randall Middle School.

 

Dashow gets in honor society

BATON ROUGE – Ariele Dashow, of Odessa, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at University of South Florida.

Dashow is among approximately 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. 

Only the top 10% of graduate students, 10% of seniors and 7.5% of juniors are eligible for membership. 

 

Culpepper makes Who’s Who

UNIVERSITY, Miss – Caitlyn Culpepper, of Odessa, was recognized in the 2024-25 class of Who’s Who Among Students at the University of Mississippi.

Culpepper, who is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, was among 200 Ole Miss students who were honored with the distinction during a ceremony on April 4 at the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts.

The honor program recognizes seniors who excel academically and demonstrate leadership and community service.

Student draws inspiration from home to graduate college

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Jakiara Willis did not give up on getting a college education. She is days away from earning a certificate in phlebotomy. Photo courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College

Jakiara Willis had to pause her education when she was 19 years old to take care of her mother who had been diagnosed with Crohn’s disease

Now, at 30, she promised both her mother and grandmother to continue her education.

Willis is one of about 900 students at Pasco-Hernando State College expected to be eligible for graduation this semester. She’ll receive her career certificate in phlebotomy on May 8 on the college’s West Campus in New Port Richey. 

“PHSC made it worth it,” Willis said. “My professor, Ms. Crystal, and my classmates were all amazing. The class dynamic was so helpful, with everyone sharing their ideas and points of view.”

Willis ultimately chose to re-engage her education journey, starting with phlebotomy, because she wanted to walk in her grandmother’s footsteps, who made a career in phlebotomy. 

Her education and career goals don’t end there. She plans to continue her education to become a medical lab scientist, working on developing a cure and treatment plan for Crohn’s disease. 

“I’m a child of a parent who’s struggling, seeing my own mother go through this has given me a resolve to give back and help. I dedicate my experiences and goals to my mother, and if there’s even just one person I can help, it makes a difference,” Willis said. 

She is still weighing her options about what’s next and is determined to make progress in her field.

 

Dual enrollment gives grads a head start on college

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Samuel Wu

LAND O’ LAKES – Samuel Wu is not only earning a high school diploma at Sunlake High School this spring but he’s also receiving his Associate in Arts degree through dual enrollment at Pasco-Hernando State College.

Wu, who is graduating as valedictorian at Sunlake, said earning a degree in high school has helped jumpstart his college experience. 

“Earning my AA allows me to go right into my major, having already covered all my general education and prerequisites,” Wu said. “I can dive deep into what I’m really interested in.” 

Wu is planning on attending the University of Florida for his advanced coursework.

Other students are taking advantage of Pasco-Hernando State College’s dual enrollment program. 

Amaya Beebe, of West Campus, described doing dual enrollment as her best decision.

“PHSC has been super welcoming and helpful,” Beebe said. “My instructors have made the process super smooth.”

After graduation, she plans to move to Boston to attend Suffolk University to study her undergrad in politics with a major in global cultural studies.

Ruth Greenhaw, of Wiregrass Ranch High School, said she had a very good experience for dual enrollment. 

“I’m glad I did it,” Greenshaw said. “The process was pretty smooth and helped set me up for my next educational step.”

Harlee Wilson, of West Campus, started at Pasco-Hernando State College as a high school sophomore. 

The next stop on her educational journey is USF, where she is going into the biomedical sciences to become a forensic pathologist. Her hopes to be accepted into the seven-year BS/MD program USF offers.

“PHSC has been a big part of my growth over the past three years and has set me up for success in my future,” Wilson said, “PHSC truly wants its students to succeed, and it is shown throughout the campus. I am grateful to be a PHSC alumni.” 

Pasco-Hernando State College will host spring commencement on May 8 in the Physical Fitness Center at the West Campus in New Port Richey, 10230 Ridge Road. Two commencement ceremonies will honor graduates earning bachelor’s and associate degrees and certificates. The morning ceremony will begin at 10:30 a.m. and the afternoon commencement will begin at 3:30 p.m. The event will be live streamed at phsc.edu/grad.

Adopt a Pet (4/23/25): Bowser needs some adventure

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Say hello to Bowser, a 10-year-old gentleman with a youthful spark! This charming mixed breed may be seasoned in years, but his peppy personality and love for outdoor adventures make him the perfect companion for someone who enjoys strolls and playtime. Bowser delights in trotting around the shelter’s play yards and is always ready to show off his sprightly side. While he’s currently recovering from what he likes to call a “bad hair day,” Bowser is well on his way to reclaiming his gorgeous looks, though his inner beauty has always been undeniable. If you’re looking for a loyal and lively friend, Bowser might be just the dog for you. Ask to meet this delightful pup today at Pasco County Animal Services!

If you would like to adopt Bowser, be sure to make an appointment at Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes, by calling 813-929-1212. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. Email for more information.

 

Adopt a Pet (4/23/25): Granola is so sweet

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Meet Granola, the gentle soul you’ve been waiting for! This 11-month-old brindle beauty is a mixed-breed pup with a heart as warm as her name suggests. Granola might be a bit shy at first, but once she feels safe, her affectionate and loyal nature truly shines. At just under 50 pounds, she’s the perfect medium-sized companion for someone looking for a lower-key yet loving addition to their family. Granola enjoys the company of other calm puppy pals and has shown her social side during shelter playgroups. Her laid-back personality makes her an ideal match for someone who values quiet moments and sweet cuddles. If you’re ready to give Granola the patient and loving home she deserves, ask to meet her today at Pasco County Animal Services!

If you would like to adopt Granola, be sure to make an appointment at Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes, by calling 813-929-1212. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. Email for more information.