The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

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

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Vinik Sports Group to host part-time hiring event

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

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

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

 

GTE Financial promotes executive

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

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

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

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Real estate firm donates to mentoring organization

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

Greater Pasco events

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

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

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

 

East Pasco events

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

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

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

 

Quick Hits

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

 

Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office supports PACK

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On the web: pascotaxes.com or pascopack.org

 

Children’s museum expands access to low-income families

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Embrace the quirky spirit of Gulfport at GECKOFEST  

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

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

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

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

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

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

Admission and parking are complimentary with courtesy shuttles available. 

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

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

On the web: visitgulfportflorida.com

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

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Woman’s club to host Fall Flea Market

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

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

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

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

 

Tiger Bay Club to honor former mayors

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

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

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

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

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

 

 Castor, Bilirakis want to end zombie campaigns

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

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

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

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

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

 

Tax office wins Sterling Award

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

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

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

 

 

Protecting those who protect us

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

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

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

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

Each graduate is driven by personal experiences:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Zephyrhills recognizes champion weightlifter

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ZEPHYRHILLS – Mayor Melonie Bahr Monson and the Zephyrhills City Council recognized state champion weightlifter Malachi Woodard during the July 28 meeting. 

Woodward, who recently finished his senior year at Zephyrhills High School, was the subject of the following proclamation Monson read into the record:

 

WHEREAS, Malachi Woodard, a senior at Zephyrhills High School, began his journey in powerlifting as a freshman and has since demonstrated extraordinary dedication, discipline, and perseverance in the sport; and 

WHEREAS, Malachi earned his first state title as a sophomore and concluded his high school career with another state championship, solidifying his legacy as one of Florida’s premier high school weightlifters; and 

WHEREAS, during the 2025 Class 2A Boys Weightlifting Olympic-Snatch competition, Malachi Woodard broke the state record in the 154 lb. division by lifting an astounding 240 lbs., surpassing the previous record of 230 lbs.; and 

WHEREAS, Malachi’s achievements have not only brought pride to Zephyrhills High School but have also earned him a scholarship to Lindenwood University in Missouri, where he will continue his academic and athletic pursuits; and 

WHEREAS, surrounded by his family, teammates, and coaches – including Coach James Aguilera – Malachi signed his national letter of intent in the ZHS weight room, expressing heartfelt gratitude to those who supported his journey and helped him realize his dreams; and WHEREAS, Malachi’s story is one of resilience and inspiration, as he found his purpose and passion in the weight room, using it as a source of motivation and strength to achieve greatness; and 

WHEREAS, standing at 5 feet 3 inches tall, Malachi has proven that determination and heart outweigh any physical limitation, and he now aspires to become a strength and conditioning coach to train future professional athletes; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Melonie Bahr Monson, Mayor of the City of Zephyrhills, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby recognize and commend Malachi Woodard 2025 State Champion and Record-Breaking Weightlifter for his outstanding accomplishments, unwavering dedication, and the pride he brings to our community. We wish him continued success at Lindenwood University and in all his future endeavors. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the official seal of the City of Zephyrhills, Pasco County, Florida, to be affixed this 28th day of July, 2025.

 

News Briefs (7/30/25): Pasco County hosts 4-H open house

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LUTZ – The Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s club attended a recent Habitat for Humanity home dedication. The club provided the family with a housewarming gift to include a fire extinguisher, fire blanket, books and a water filtration system. Pictured from left are Nancy Branham, Melba Pineiro, Jan King, Gail Howard and Shirley Simmons. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen

 

23 Habitat homes coming to Brandon neighborhood

BRANDON – Habitat for Humanity and Hillsborough County was scheduled to celebrate the groundbreaking for a 23-home affordable community in Brandon on July 23. 

One of the new single-family homes will be for a woman and her family who lost nearly everything during Hurricane Milton last year.

All of the homes in Windhorst Commons, 205 W. Windhorst Road, will include hurricane shutters. The neighborhood is targeted at those with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income.

Hillsborough County contributed $1.4 million toward home construction in Windhorst Commons, plus another $600,000 for infrastructure costs.

 

Pasco County hosts open house for 4H program

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Cooperative Extension invites the community to a 4-H Open House to showcase the program’s fun, hands-on experiences.  

It’s a great way to connect with fellow Pasco County 4-H kids and the leaders who help make it all happen.

The 4-H Program open house takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 19 at UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County Office, 36702 County Road 52, Dade City.

4-H members work with adult volunteers to complete projects, community service, camps and workshops in areas such as leadership and citizenship, environmental science, animal science, shooting sports, plants and gardening, food and nutrition, and community service.

Email for more information or to join a club.

 

Pasco to resume fees for storm-related permits

PASCO COUNTY – If you still need permits for damage related to hurricanes Helene or Milton, act fast. Pasco County property owners can save money on permit applications while fees are still waived, but you must apply by July 31.

With the 2025 hurricane season underway and last season’s recovery efforts progressing across the county, permitting fees will resume on Aug. 1 to support ongoing services. Pasco has so far waived approximately $3 million in storm-related permitting fees after last fall’s hurricanes caused billions of dollars in property damage.

To help you take advantage of zero fees on required storm-related permits, Pasco’s Building Construction Services team has permitting technicians ready to assist with your applications. To avoid fees, be sure to complete your forms properly before Aug. 1.  

Apply for your permits online at PascoGateway: https://aca-prod.accela.com/pasco/Default.aspx.

 

Veterans help veterans with donation

TAMPA – Joel Markman, CEO of Florida Veterans Assistance Association Inc., made a donation of needed supplies to Liberty Manor for Veterans. 

Florida Veterans Assistance Association Inc. collects veteran donations and distributes resources for veterans in the Tampa area.  The charity has been helping veterans since 1996.  It also hosts a holiday food basket program in which volunteers offer baskets of food to veterans so they can feed their families. Additionally, veterans have access to food certificates from various grocery stores and cash grants to VA hospitals in Florida. These cash grants help veterans pay for necessary medical equipment.

Liberty Manor for Veterans promotes the developmental and social needs of disabled and honorably discharged veterans who have fallen victim to homelessness. The nonprofit has transitioned over 1,000 veterans since 2016. Contact Connie Lindsay at 813-900-9422 for more information.

On the web: libertymanor.org

 

Florida Aquarium to open new exhibit Aug. 1

TAMPA – The Florida Aquarium is rolling out The Tide Pool, a new hands-on exhibit that brings the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest coast to downtown Tampa.

Opening to the public on Aug. 1, The Tide Pool is one of the only cold-water touch habitats on Florida’s west coast, quadrupling the number of animals from the previous touch experience. 

Guests will be able to connect with more than 200 marine invertebrates, from colorful sea stars to purple urchins, in a 60-foot habitat featuring crashing surf sounds, wave motion and a day-to-night light display.

“The Tide Pool offers a multi-sensory, up-close experience that connects our guests with marine life like never before,” said Roger Germann, president and CEO of The Florida Aquarium. 

Presented by Robert R. Sharp & Family and Marvin L. & Betsy Holloway, The Tide Pool marks the second major milestone in the aquarium’s multi-year expansion. The project continues with the arrival of puffins in 2026 and a new California sea lion habitat in 2027 along with a new habitat for the aquarium’s African penguins.

Buy tickets at flaquarium.org.

Chalk Talk (7/30/25): Pasco schools cheer on student historians

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Pasco County Schools cheers on student historians

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized students that won Florida History Day and National History Day competitions during the July 22 school board meeting. 

Tina Stavrou-Klem, senior instructional specialist, at Pasco County Schools, credited county coordinators, community partners and Pasco Education Foundation for helping these history programs flourish.

“Pasco County Schools is well known and is respected both at the state and national competition,” she said.  “The students’ hard work and dedication, along with the support of their families, teachers and school administrators, have led them to be recognized not only at the district level but at the state level where they competed alongside 902 students in the theme of ‘rights and responsibilities in history.’” 

Some of the Florida History Day winners recognized during the July 22 meeting were as follows:

  • Devansh Dhavale, of Wiregrass Ranch High School, won first place in the Senior Individual Documentary category with the entry, “The Geneva Conventions: Rights and Responsibilities to Protect Vulnerable Soldiers, Innocent Civilians and Selfless Aid Workers.”
  • Liam Scanlan, of Starkey Ranch K-8 School, placed second in the Junior Individual Exhibit category with the entry, “Protecting Life at Sea: How the SOLAS Treaty Became an International Life Preserver.”
  • Breanna Hewitt and Aleisa Swing, of Pine View Middle School, placed second in the Junior Group Exhibit category with the entry “The Dakota people’s rights during the 1826 Dakota war and the responsibilities of the U.S government when dealing with the Dakota people.”
  • Aiden Haston and Nhi Le, of Springs Middle School, won first place in the Junior Group Website category with the entry, “A Silence Heard Across America: Tinker v. Des Moines and the Fight for 1st Amendment Rights in Schools.”

 

Pasco-Hernando State College board elects new leaders 

DADE CITY – The Pasco-Hernando State College District Board of Trustees elected new board leaders July 15 at the college’s East Campus.
Nicole Newlon, partner at Johnson, Newlon and DeCort, P.A. in Tampa, succeeds Marilyn Pearson-Adams as board chair. Newlon served as a Dade City commissioner and attended PHSC (formerly known as Pasco-Hernando Community College) as a dual enrollment student in 1990-1991.  Newlon served as vice chair in 2024-25.

John Allocco Jr., a Realtor for Home-Land Real Estate Inc., will take over as vice chair.  Allocco is a member of the Hernando County Board of Commissioners, CareerSource Pasco-Hernando Executive Board, National and Florida Associations of Realtors, and the Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce.

“Their leadership and dedication to our college’s mission will be invaluable as we continue to focus on student success and serve the community,” said Eric Hall, PHSC president. “I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Marilyn Pearson-Adams for her outstanding service and steadfast leadership during her term as board chair.”

The board recognized Pearson-Adams, for her leadership through her 2024-2025 term. She has served as a trustee since 2014.

 

BBB Theatres throwing Back to School Bash

WESLEY CHAPEL – BBB Theatres Wesley Chapel is hosting The Fantastic Back to School Bash & Food Truck Rally from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 2 at the movie theater. 

Families can get free school supplies, resources, games, activities and a food truck rally to benefit the Mahogany Arts Foundation. 

BBB Theatres Wesley Chapel features a Grand Screen, Screen X and Marquee Suites, as well as a Backstage Pass program, where tickets cost $6 on Tuesdays. 

 

Student Achievements

  • Robby S. Burton, of Lutz, was named to first honors on the Clark University dean’s list. Burton earned a GPA of 3.8 or above at the Worcester, Massachusetts-based college. 
  • Colton Ash, of Lutz, made the spring dean’s list at Youngstown State University in Ohio for earning a GPA of 3.4 or higher. 

Tampa Theatre brings the chills earlier

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TAMPA – It’s easy to forget, down here where the change of seasons barely registers, that for most of the time humans have walked the Earth, to be cold was to die. And darkness was coldness. Every year, as the nights grow longer and the plants get browner and a chill starts to sharpen the air, our ancestors’ thoughts turned grim. But as lives got safer and we developed fear-as-entertainment, we learned to deploy that darkness to frighten  and thereby to thrill.

And yet if you’ve ever been on a Florida beach on an August afternoon, you know that light and heat can be shockingly scary too. Even dangerous. 

And because Tampa Theatre’s Big Picture series curators like being contrary, they’ve decided to lead into spooky season this year with a sampler of frightening films that all operate in the sunlight, though each in different ways:

  • Aug. 6: This month opens with the new classic “Midsommar,” a discombobulating, trancelike nightmare that’s still the most straightforward horror film in the series. It’s a useful introduction to the vibe all these movies have in common: something about horrible things being completely visible makes them feel both more realistic and more surreal.
  • Aug. 13: Next is “Creature from the Black Lagoon,” a groundbreaking and frequently imitated creature-feature that trades one kind of darkness for another. No matter how oppressive the heat and prickly the light is on land, go a few feet underwater and everything is dark and cold forever. The underwater scenes were filmed in Wakulla Springs, just south of Tallahassee, so this is practically a home movie.
  • Aug. 20: Then we take a slight left turn to “No Country for Old Men,” not a typical thriller but a scintillating exploration of a much more recognizable kind of monster. Every shot is desiccated and sunbleached, with cinematography that’s lizardlike in its economy of motion. All you have to do is watch what happens.
  • Aug. 27: And finally we wrap with “The Vanishing,” aka “Spoorloos,” a Dutch psychological stomach-churner about a woman who disappears at a rest stop during a sunny French vacation. It’s got the frank and wide-eyed perspective of security camera footage or a celebrity magazine profile, and Stanley Kubrick thought it was the scariest movie he’d ever seen.

Big Picture tickets cost $7 for Tampa Theatre members and $10 for others. Buy them at the Franklin Street Box Office and  at www.tampatheatre.org