The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Foundation works to promote girls’ soccer

By

Sun mascot Solé dances with students. Photo courtesy of Tampa Bay Sun Foundation

TAMPA – With shots on goal, smiles on faces and surprises from professional female athletes, students at East Tampa’s Ferrell Girls Preparatory Academy enjoyed an inspiring Soccer Celebration on April 4. 

Positive role models and examples of dreams being realized surrounded the 400-plus students at the all-girls public middle school. 

The event marked the launch of the Tampa Bay Sun Foundation. 

The nonprofit group will collaborate with the area’s women’s professional soccer team, Tampa Bay Sun FC, on programs that use the power of soccer to build community and character.

Ferrell Girls Preparatory Academy students zipped around cones in dribbling drills and laughed as they did their best to send shots into the back of portable soccer goals.

Volunteer coaches and professional female players from Tampa Bay Sun FC led the activities.

Sun players and team mascot Solé surprised students at the outdoor celebration, then headed inside to join a school pep rally in the gym.

The Soccer Celebration is a small taste of the impact that will be delivered by the Tampa Bay Sun Foundation’s flagship effort: Rise Up Soccer Club.

Rise Up will bring a free, high-quality soccer program to girls who otherwise may not have access.

It is a women-led afterschool curriculum, lasting four to six weeks.

The Rise Up program will focus on Title 1 schools like Ferrell.

“Soccer is one of the most popular sports for kids in the U.S., but youth soccer is almost never free,” said Rachel Jolley, program director for the Tampa Bay Sun Foundation. “To take part and see all the benefits of physical activity, teamwork and positive role models, families face spending hundreds or thousands of dollars per year, per child. We want to help change that dynamic here in Tampa Bay.”

In addition to expanding access to soccer, the foundation will create new opportunities for growth among local youth players and future leaders of the game, and be a hub for community impact that inspires every generation.

“Our players want to get out into the community,” said Christina Unkel, president and general manager of Tampa Bay Sun FC. “They want to show kids that their dreams can become reality. By partnering with the Tampa Bay Sun Foundation, the amazing women on our team now have a new outlet where they can reach out and have a positive impact.”

On the web: TampaBaySunFC.com/foundation

Business Digest (4/16/25): USF to tout award winners

By

USF to tout award winners

TAMPA – The Florida Small Business Development Center at USF will recognize businesses from the 10-county Tampa Bay region May 14 at the 2025 Florida SBDC at USF Annual Business Awards. 

Guests will have a chance to network, visit exhibitor booths, enjoy lunch and hear from keynote speaker Tra Williams, at the University of South Florida Marshall Center, 4103 USF Cedar Circle. The event starts at 11:30 a.m. 

In his new book “Boss Brain,” Williams reveals the truth behind the decline of American entrepreneurship and the impacts this decline has on individuals and communities. 

“As we go through our day-to-day routines, many of us may not realize we are surrounded by incredible entrepreneurs and the supportive ecosystem that nurtures them.” said Carl Hadden, Florida SBDC at USF regional director. “We look forward to a festive and informative luncheon as we celebrate entrepreneurs, the people who support them, and welcome keynote speaker Tra Williams to the stage.”

Registration costs $99. Visit https://events.blackthorn.io/en/6g3Q8Wa7/2025-florida-sbdc-at-usf-annual-business-awards-5a1eVO6mFPV/overview for details. 

 

Xgenex celebrating new digs

LUTZ – Xgenex was scheduled to host a ribbon cutting April 8 at its new 3,655-square-foot space at The Edison Suncoast. The ribbon cutting took place after the newspaper’s deadline.

The technology company specializes in combating bacterial contamination in the food industry.

“Pasco County is the perfect location for Xgenex with active support from Pasco EDC and world-class infrastructure to support our multi-million-dollar state-of-the-art Xymethius Artificial Intelligence Operations Center in Lutz,” said Jim Byron, CEO/owner of Xgenex

The Edison Suncoast is located at 1785 Northpointe Pkwy. 

 

Check out corrections jobs

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Corrections is hiring both certified and civilian team members. 

The department will host an in-person career fair from 9 to 11 a.m. April 21 and 3 to 5 p.m. April 22 at Pasco County Corrections, 20101 Central Blvd., Land O’ Lakes.

Corrections leadership will be on hand to answer questions about these opportunities. Those who are pre-certified in corrections are encouraged to attend as well. Bring several copies of your resume and a photo ID.

 

EDC accepting nominations

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco EDC is accepting nominations for its 2025 Pasco Economic Development Council Annual Awards through April 30. 

Nominees should be a for-profit business to business company operating in Pasco County (municipalities or affiliates are excluded). Companies will be evaluated based on the timeframe of January 2024 to March 2025. 

Awards open for nominations include the Pasco Establishment Award, Economic Excellence Award, International Achievement Award and Innovation in Workforce Development Award.

Winners will be announced at Pasco EDC’s 37th Annual Awards event from Sept. 4 at Saddlebrook Resort.

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will hold a coffee, ribbon cutting and workshop in the next week.

  • The chamber hosts a coffee social from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. April 16 at San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union 28909 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel.
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of Pinellas Vascular’s Tampa office from 3 to 7 p.m. April 16 at 3450 E. Fletcher Ave., suite 330, Tampa. The ribbon cutting starts at 3:30 p.m. 
  • Kent Ross, owner of RP&G Printing, discusses  “Direct Mail Success for Small Businesses,” from noon to 1:30 p.m. April 17 at the Suncoast Office, 4 & Co. Building, 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. Register in advance. Admission costs $15. 
  • New members learn about how to get the most out of the chamber from 9 to 10 a.m. April 23 at the Suncoast Office, 4 & Co. Building, 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. 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 women’s networking luncheon and a brochure exchange in the next week. 

  • The Professional Women in Business group holds a networking meeting and lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 16 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance. 
  • Members network during the Trinity Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 17 at Seven Springs Golf and Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., Trinity. Register in advance. Registration is free for members and $10 for others. Lunch costs $13. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will hold orientation and their weekly coffee networking events in the next week.  

  • New and prospective members learn how to get the most out of chamber membership from 8 to 9 a.m. April 17 at the Zephyrhills Office, 38550 5th Ave., Zephyrhills. Register in advance.
  • The chamber hosts Coffee & NEtworking from 8 to 9 a.m. April 18 at the Zephyrhills Office, 38550 5th Ave., as well as   from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. April 22 at the Dade City Office, 14112 8th St.

 

Chalk Talk (4/16/25): FBLA team strikes gold

By

PHSC Alumni and National Champion Samantha Mutter and PHSC FBLA state officers. Photo courtesy of PHSC

FBLA team strikes gold

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College’s Future Business Leaders of America won multiple awards and placed in several competitions at the State Leadership Conference on March 20 to 23 in Orlando. 

PHSC’s FBLA team won key awards: 

  • Pasco-Hernando State College won Chapter of the Year and Gold Seal Recipient.
  • West Campus Advisor Curtis Scaglione won Adviser of the Year.
  • Emmalise Feliciano won the Whose Who, Rob Kelleher Scholar Award.
  • Krista Knowles won the Christopher Heider Scholar.

Several students also placed in competitions: 

  • Emmalise Feliciano, Caleb Grossenbacher and Kiara Carlos won state of the chapter.
  • Kevin Backitis placed second in computer applications and cybersecurity.
  • Emmalise Feliciano placed second in future business leaders executive.
  • Matthew Gerlack placed third in computer applications.
  • Krista Knowles placed second in business communications.
  • Isabella Vullo placed fourth in job interviews. 
  • Michael Widman placed second in impromptu speaking and fourth in organizational leadership and management.

“So many students in technology, business, accounting and public speaking categories do especially well, year after year,” said Curtis Scaglione, FBLA club advisor for West Campus and assistant professor for information technology programs at PHSC. “A lot of this is the hard work and dedication of our students, but a part of their journey is the amazing faculty they interact with and learn from. It’s no wonder both Misty Price and Danita have been named Katherine M. Johnson Excellence in Teaching honorees. As Dr. Pisors often reminds us, what is most important is what happens in the classroom, and we begin to see that idea and spirit spread in moments like these.”

 

PHSC hosting art exhibit 

SPRING HILL – Pasco-Hernando State College is hosting a student-led exhibit with the theme of student identity and growth. 

“The Creative Roots: Cultivating Personal Meaning” exhibit features students of Julie Lovero-Fox, an adjunct art instructor who’s been with PHSC for nearly 20 years.

Students were asked to explore and visually express how individuals shape and reshape their identities over time, influenced by their surroundings, experiences and inner desires.

Catch the exhibit from noon to 7 p.m. April 24 in the Rao Musunuru, M.D. Conference Center at Spring Hill Campus, 450 Beverly Court, Spring Hill. 

 

Students join Phi Kappa Phi

BATON ROUGE – The following people recently were elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi:

  • Tyler Tyson of Lutz, at University of Florida.
  • Zoe Poulsen of Lutz, at The University of Alabama.

They are among 20,000 students, faculty, professional staff and alumni to be initiated into Phi Kappa Phi each year. 

Membership is by invitation only and requires nomination and approval by a chapter. Only the top 10% of seniors, 7.5% of juniors and 10% of graduate students are eligible for membership. 

 

Quick Hits

  • Pasco County Schools has been recognizing assistant principals from various schools on social media in honor of Assistant Principals Week. The district is also recognizing April as Autism Awareness Month.
  • Quail Hollow Elementary School was scheduled to celebrate its 50th anniversary with a celebration open to the community. Festivities included an art show, ice cream social and rock painting. 

 

Ashley’s Eggsploration to feature thousands of eggs

By

Photos courtesy of Tampa Downtown Partnership

TAMPA – Ashley’s Eggsploration, presented by the Tampa Downtown Partnership, takes over Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park on April 19.

This family-friendly event is billed as Downtown Tampa’s largest Easter egg hunt, complete with thousands of hidden eggs, special prizes, delicious food and plenty of activities for all ages.

Visitors can explore the park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. while enjoying a packed lineup of entertainment, activities and treats, including:

  • Photos with the Easter bunny (bottom 30 minutes of every hour between 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.).
  • A mimosa bar for guests 21 and older.
    • Face painting and balloon animals.
    • A bike helmet decorating station and giveaway (courtesy of MattLaw).
    • Bounce houses and a mobile kid’s spa.
    • A vibrant market featuring food and retail vendors.
    • Exciting giveaways and prize opportunities.

 “There’s nothing better than seeing families come together, kids laughing and our community making memories that will last a lifetime,” said Kenyetta Hairston-Bridges, president & CEO of the Tampa Downtown Partnership. “Ashley’s Eggsploration is more than just an egg hunt. It’s a reminder of the joy and hope that Easter brings, while also showcasing the vibrant spirit of Tampa’s downtown.”

Egg hunt registration closes at noon. Hunts are designed by age group, ensuring a fun challenge for all. Guests can follow signs to the registration tent to pick up an age-appropriate card before starting their search. Bring a basket or decorate a bag at the craft station (while supplies last). Each age group will collect a specific set of eggs to exchange for prizes.Age groups and prizes are as follows: 

  • Ages 3 and younger: Special Bunny Ear Headband courtesy of Ashley.
  • Ages 4 to 8: Special Bunny Ear Headband courtesy of Ashley.
  • Ages 9 to 13: Special Bunny Ear Headband courtesy of Ashley.
  • Ages 14 to 17: A chance to win tickets to The Florida Aquarium.
  • Ages 18 and older: A drawing for a Tampa staycation.
  • Grand Prize Golden Eggs: $500 Ashley Cash.

Volunteers are needed to assist with registration, egg drop-offs, photo stations and more. Sign up at https://volunteersignup.org/DBHJL. On the web: tampasdowntown.com

 

Homebuilder donates furniture, fixtures to Habitat

By

Chloe Crooks and Stephanie Patterson remove lighting fixtures to donate to Habitat. Photo courtesy of Rad Red Creative
Melissa Parks moves donations to the Habitat ReStore truck. Photo courtesy of Rad Red Creative

WESLEY CHAPEL – Habitat for Humanity of East and Central Pasco County recently received $90,000 in furniture and fixtures from a single donor.

GL Homes donated cabinets, countertops, curtains, kitchen sinks, lighting fixtures, appliances and office furniture from its Winding Ridge community in Wesley Chapel.

Over the past five years, GL Homes has donated $200,000 in furniture and building supplies to Habitat’s ReStore in Pasco County. 

Sales from donated items help Habitat for Humanity partner with local families to build, rehabilitate and repair safe and affordable homes in local communities and around the world.

“GL Homes donated everything and the kitchen sink,” said Melissa Parks, operations and compliance manager for Habitat for Humanity of East and Central Pasco County. “The furniture, decor and home improvement goods will be sold at a fraction of the retail price at our Zephyrhills ReStore. This $90,000 donation is the largest one we’ve received this year. Thanks to GL Homes, the money from the sale of these high-quality items will allow us to build more affordable homes in Pasco County.”

Habitat ReStores accept new and gently used home improvement goods and furniture and sell a constantly changing inventory of merchandise to the public at a fraction of the retail price, while diverting reusable household items and building materials from area landfills.

“Our strong relationship with Habitat for Humanity comes full circle,” said Stephanie Patterson, vice president/project manager for GL Homes. “When we donate to Habitat ReStore, we’re keeping quality materials out of landfills and expanding Habitat’s ability to build homes for deserving families.”

GL Homes employees load up the Habitat ReStore truck with donations. Photo courtesy of Rad Red Creative

Richey Suncoast Theatre introduces Theatre Kids Club

By

NEW PORT RICHEY – Richey Suncoast Theatre has launched the Theatre Kids Club, an after-school program tailored for children, ages 6 to 12, who want to explore the magic of theater.

The program invites children to dive into a new theme each week, including acting, singing, set and costume design, and musical theater.

The Theatre Kids Club runs from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Thursdays from April 3 to May 22 at the nonprofit performing arts venue, located at 6237 Grand Blvd. Sessions cost $25 each (plus taxes and fees).

Designed to inspire creativity and build confidence, Theatre Kids Club also helps children make new friends and develop life skills.

“At Theatre Kids Club, we’re not just teaching theater – we’re helping kids discover their voices, express themselves and have a great time doing it,” said Jess Glass, creative director for Richey Suncoast Theatre. “It’s flexible, affordable and most importantly, fun!”

Safety is a top priority. Children must be signed in and out by an adult, with ID required at pick-up.

Whether your child is a budding Broadway star or wants to try something new, Theatre Kids Club is a  great afterschool activity near New Port Richey. Spots are limited. Get tickets at https://ci.ovationtix.com/36105/production/1231296. 

On the web: richeysuncoasttheatre.com

 

Richey Suncoast Theatre releases May schedule

Since 1926, Richey Suncoast Theatre has been a hub for the arts in New Port Richey, offering a variety of live theater, music, comedy, film and more. Below is its May schedule: 

  • May 2, Dean Napolitano (comedy)
  • May 3, Elvis – Matt Stone (live music)
  • May 8, Theatre Kids Club (afterschool program)
  • May 9, Corey Van Valin (comedy)
  • May 10, The Chili Poppers – Red Hot Chili Peppers Tribute (live music)
  • May 15, Theatre Kids Club (afterschool program)
  • May 17, Tampa Bay Big Band (live music)
  • May 20, Sips For The Stage: Little Shop Of Horrors (at Boulevard Beef & Ale, 6236 Grand Blvd.)
  • May 22, Theatre Kids Club (afterschool program)
  • May 24, Concert: Hits 106
  • May 29, Theatre Kids Club (afterschool program)

Visit richeysuncoasttheatre.com/event-calendar for tickets and details.

Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhills celebrates 25 years

By

Photo courtesy of  Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhill
Photo courtesy of  Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhill
Photo courtesy of  Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhill

ZEPHYRHILLS – The Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhills celebrated its 25th anniversary April 7 with an open house and an East Pasco Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting.

The event allowed the nonprofit to unveil a mobile ultrasound bus made in collaboration with the Pregnancy Care Center of Plant City and Image Clear Ultrasound of Central Florida.

The mobile bus will provide free pregnancy testing and limited ultrasound services every other Tuesday. Appointments can be made by calling 813-763-5437.

The Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhills also honored longtime volunteers Sami Sykes and Terri Luna with tokens of appreciation. Both have volunteered for more than 20 years. 

Visitors could tour the center, located at 38435 North Ave., as well as learn about its programming, which includes resources for expectant mothers and families about pregnancy and parenting. 

Photo courtesy of  Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhill

Pasco County to receive $585M for disaster recovery

By

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County will receive $585.7 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery program.

Pasco County’s Office of Disaster Recovery and Resources is seeking input on how the money will help the community recover from the impacts of Hurricanes Idalia, Helene and Milton.  

The funding can be used for things like infrastructure improvement, affordable housing initiatives and economic revitalization.

The county is hosting public workshops to gather ideas and feedback on how best to allocate the funding. Feedback will help shaft the county’s draft action plan, ensuring resources are directed where they’re needed most.

Better Future Public Input Workshops take place at the following times: 

  • April 14, 6 p.m. at J. Ben Harrill Recreation Complex, 2830 Gulf Trace Blvd., Holiday.
  • April 17, 6 p.m. at Hudson Regional Library, 8012 Library Road, Hudson.
  • April 21, 6 p.m. at Moore-Mickens Education Center, 38301 Martin Luther King Blvd., Dade City.

Each session will include a brief presentation followed by an opportunity to provide feedback.  

Visit mypas.co/BetterFuture for additional meeting dates and other ways to participate.

 

Chalk Talk (04/09/25): District brings awareness to autism

By

District brings awareness to autism

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools is observing National Autism Awareness Month in April. 

The school board passed a proclamation April 1  to bring more attention to “disability awareness and inclusion.”

The district serves more than 1,800 students on the autism spectrum, according to the proclamation. 

Melissa Musselwhite, director of student support programs and services, took time during the April 1 school board meeting to recognize parents of autistic students. 

“Parents of children with autism come with unique challenges,” she said. “But it also brings beautiful moments of progress, learning and connection. You navigate uncharted waters, advocate tirelessly for the needs of your children and you do so with immense grace, so thank you.”

She also pointed to the efforts of staff who work to ensure students have the resources to succeed. 

 

System approves charter school contracts

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools has renewed contracts with Florida Charter Educational Foundation for 15-year-terms related to Union Park Charter Academy and Innovation Preparatory Academy. 

The district reviewed the charter schools’ performance over the past three years in areas such as student achievement, operations and strategic planning. Both Wesley Chapel charter schools passed the test, meeting or partially meeting each of the 30 standards outlined in their evaluations. 

These are renewals from contracts initially approved in May 2022.

 

Bell times change for River Ridge schools 

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools has revised the bell times for River Ridge middle and high schools after they lost a day of instruction March 12 due to smoke from a controlled burn at the Starkey Wilderness Preserve.

Starting April 7, the instruction day spans from 7:05 a.m. to 1:33 p.m. 

Board member Colleen Beaudoin expressed concern about schools meeting course and state standards with lost instructional time from hurricanes.

“Meaningful instructional time is paramount,” Beaudoin said April 1. “That being said, I talked with staff and I know they looked at possible ways to add a day but that it was extremely challenging to do so for only two schools and on such short notice.”

Beaudoin said she trusts staff will work diligently to best utilize the time they have. She said the district will be better equipped to handle such issues with the way they set up next year’s calendar.  

 

News Briefs (04/09/25): Club donates to the arts

By

Maureen Robak and Lois Cohen (Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen)

 

Club donates to the arts

LAND O’ LAKES – The March General meeting for GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club included a fundraiser luncheon presented by the Arts and Crafts CSP. CSP members provided Irish food and various “green” desserts. 

Proceeds will be donated to Arts for All. 

Visit gfwclutzlandolakeswomansclub.org for information about membership.

 

Luncheon to empower women

WESLEY CHAPEL – Pasco County’s Commission on the Status of Women is hosting its third Women Uplifting Women luncheon to unite our community, share ideas and inspire others.

From CEOs to frontline workers, this annual luncheon offers something for every woman in Pasco County. 

The Women Uplifting Women Luncheon takes place from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. April 29 at Pasco-Hernando State College Porter Campus, Third Floor Conference Center, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel.

“Understanding the broad issues impacting us daily is crucial for women,” said Jennie Yingling, chair of the Commission on the Status of Women. “It’s inspiring to see strong, successful women united to discuss and identify solutions to our community’s challenges.”

Keynote speaker Effie Santos, founder of Madi’s Movement and author of “The Power of the Pause,” will discuss the significance of pausing and delve into life’s unexpected twists and the choices women confront. 

Attendees will also gain valuable insights from a panel of women who will address critical issues impacting women today and explore solutions for a brighter future.

RSVP no later than April 22 by visiting mypas.co/UpliftingWomen2025

Event Registration is $10, including a boxed lunch limited to 140 participants.

 

Extension hosting Earth Day celebration

DADE CITY – UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension is celebrating Earth Day with a family-friendly, educational event that aims to increase environmental stewardship and awareness.

The Earth Day 2025 Celebration takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 19 at Pasco County Extension One Stop Shop, 15029 14th St., Dade City.

Activities and educational opportunities Include a Master Gardener Volunteers’ Plant Sale, 

hydroponic gardening, new garden tours/Q&A, touch a truck for kids, vertical oyster, gardens, composting and pollination.

Representatives from various Pasco County departments and state agencies will explain how to become better Earth ambassadors and introduce free or low-cost county and state services.

Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service assists people in Pasco County by developing and delivering practical, educational programs in environmental horticulture; sustainable agriculture; 4‑H and youth development; and family and consumer sciences. 

Visit mypas.co/UFIFASPascoExt for details or volunteer opportunities.

 

Pasco County opens registration for 4-H camp

PASCO COUNTY – Summer is right around the corner, so now is a great time to enroll your child in a variety of fun activities to keep them active.

Join UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension 4-H for a weeklong, overnight summer camp adventure June 16 to 20, 2025.

The week’s theme is Eco-Discovery, which focuses on classes and activities about the environment.  It is also filled with activities including swimming, kayaking, archery, campfires, herpetology and arts & crafts.

4-H Overnight Camp is for children, ages 8 to 17. The camp will be held at 4-H Camp Cloverleaf, 126 Cloverleaf Road, Lake Placid. The cost for the camp is $400.

Kids 14 years and older who want to be a Junior Counselor must complete an application.  

Email to register or more information.