The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pasco County hospitals earn top safety grades

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WESLEY CHAPEL – Hospitals across Pasco County earned top grades in the fall release of 2025 Hospital Safety Grades on Nov. 13. 

The Leapfrog Group collects and analyzes data about infections, accidents, injuries and errors at nearly 3,000 general hospitals. The nonprofit assigns grades ranging from A to F and releases them publicly in the fall and spring. 

“These safety grades represent peace of mind for the communities we are a part of,” said Dr. Raj Wadhawan, chief clinical officer of the AdventHealth West Florida Division. “When patients walk through our doors, they can trust that our teams are focused on preventing errors, maintaining the highest safety standards and delivering compassionate care that helps them heal and feel whole.”

Several AdventHealth West Florida Division hospitals earned an A grade, including AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Dade City.

Eleven of BayCare’s acute-care hospitals received an A grade, including BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel in Wesley Chapel, Morton Plant North Bay Hospital in New Port Richey and St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz.

“BayCare’s outstanding fall 2025 Leapfrog Safety Grades reflect our daily commitment to protect patients and deliver the highest standards of care,” said Dr. Laura Arline, BayCare’s chief quality officer. “This achievement demonstrates what’s possible when every team member, physician and advanced practice provider takes ownership of safety and is a testament to our shared focus on Zero Harm.”  

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz scored a top grade for the seventh consecutive time, earning what’s known as Straight A status. 

“This recognition is evidence of our team’s unwavering commitment to patient safety and excellence in care. We are dedicated to providing our community with the safest possible environment and continuously striving to exceed the highest standards in health care,” said Sara Dodds, St. Joseph’s Hospital-North president. 

The safety grade is a composite score that comprises more than 30 national performance measures, a hospital survey and information gathered from other data sources. The grading system is peer-reviewed and free to the public at HospitalSafetyGrade.org.

 

Crafters featured at expansion of vintage store

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Holiday decorations will be for sale Nov. 29 in an expansion of Guava City Vintage, 7307 N. Florida Ave. The event features the work of crafters from Forest Hills Presbyterian Church and benefits missions. Photo provided by Forest Hills Presbyterian Church. 

NORTH TAMPA – Creations by volunteers at Forest Hills Presbyterian Church will be featured Nov. 29 as the first vendors in an expanded vintage store.

Guava City Vintage, located at 7307 N. Florida Ave., is owned by Tania Ashby and her mother, Elisa Ashby. The store’s newly expanded area will open at 10 a.m. for the annual Seminole Heights Shop Hop. The owners also plan to have it open on select weekends throughout the year to feature local artists, vendors and crafters.

The Presbyterian church volunteers create decorative pieces, refinish and refurbish furniture, and grow plants for sale at the church’s annual bazaar, which celebrated its 26th year in October.

Tania  Ashby said she likes the church crafters’ work.

“They are handcrafted, truly unique and local,” she said. “I hope we can get some more local vendors each Saturday.”

Tania  Ashby said she is glad to have the church crafters as the first participants.

“I support their mission of giving back to the community,” she said, noting all proceeds from the church crafters sale will go to missions.

Collectibles, such as this set of Wizard of Oz dolls from McDonald’s Happy Meals, will be for sale. Photo provided by Forest Hills Presbyterian Church.

Jennifer Gregory, the church’s craft coordinator, said the church had some items remaining from its bazaar as well as many other creations being made for its new venture, called “Timeless Treasures.”

“I just heard about Tania’s idea and jumped right on it,” Gregory said, adding the volunteers usually take several months off after the fall bazaar. “This is how the crafters, gardeners and furniture people can continue the fellowship of the group.”

The merchandise includes Christmas decorations, wreaths, centerpieces, antiques, collectibles, furniture pieces, plants and baked goods. Crafters also will make bows. Most items will be priced between $3 and $50, with many under $20, Gregory said.

“This expansion is a great opportunity for other artists and crafters to have a place to showcase what they are doing locally,” Gregory said. “I think she has a great idea, and I hope it really takes off.”

For information about becoming a vendor at the expanded vintage store, email Tania  Ashby at

 

 

Saint Leo University hosting Christmas Celebration

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ST. LEO – Saint Leo University is kicking off the holiday season Dec. 3 with its annual Christmas Celebration. 

The community is invited to enjoy an evening of beloved Saint Leo traditions, including two Christmas concerts, a Christmas village, the campus lighting and other family-friendly activities. 

 

Christmas Concert

4 p.m., Benedictine Sisters of Florida’s Holy Name Monastery, 12138 Wichers Road

Enjoy the first of two Christmas concerts featuring choral and instrumental performances by the Saint Leo University Music Program.

 

Christmas Village

5 to 7 p.m., Student Activities Building loggias and clock tower courtyard

In partnership with the Town of St. Leo and Orlando Health, the campus will transform into a Christmas village with local vendors, food, family-friendly activities, decorations and special guests from the North Pole.

 

Campus Lighting and Manger Blessing

5:45 p.m., Walkway by the lion statue

Join the Saint Leo community for the annual blessing of the university’s Nativity scene and the official lighting of the campus for the Christmas season.

 

Ugly Sweater Contest

6 p.m., Clock tower

Show off your holiday spirit as judges award medals to the top three ugliest sweaters.

 

Christmas Carols and Candlelight Walk

6:45 p.m., Meet at the clock tower

Gather by candlelight and stroll to the historic Saint Leo Abbey Church while singing your favorite Christmas carols.

 

Christmas Concert and Sing-Along

7 p.m., Saint Leo Abbey Church

The evening concludes with a concert and sing-along.

 

Both Christmas concerts are free. Optional donations will be accepted online. Concert seating is first come, first served. The 4 p.m. concert at Holy Name Monastery offers a more intimate setting, while the 7 p.m. concert at Saint Leo Abbey Church accommodates larger audiences.

Saint Leo University is at 33701 County Road 52. Free parking is available in surface lots and in the campus parking garage.

Email for more information about the concerts or for accommodation requests. 

 

Pasco to open disaster recovery housing program

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LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County is launching its Better Future Individual Housing Program to help customers repair, rebuild or replace homes damaged by hurricanes Idalia, Helene and Milton.

The Office of Disaster Recovery and Resources is hosting public meetings around the county so residents can learn about the application process and find out if they qualify. Staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Information meetings will be held at the following times: 

  • Nov. 19, 6 p.m., West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive, New Port Richey
  • Nov. 20, 6 p.m., Veterans Memorial Park, 14333 Hicks Road, Hudson
  • Nov. 22, 10 a.m., Alice Hall Community Center, 38116 5th Ave., Zephyrhills
  • Nov. 24, 6 p.m., Historic Pasco County Courthouse, 37918 Meridian Ave., Dade City
  • Nov. 25, 6:30 p.m., Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

Each open house-style meeting will begin with a brief presentation, followed by an informal question-and-answer session. Visit mypas.co/BetterFuture for the latest updates and information if you can’t attend a meeting.

Pasco’s Better Future Individual Housing Program is the first of several programs designed to help the community recover with nearly $586 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery program.

 

What’s Happening (11/19/25): Tampa Theatre to screen holiday classics 

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Children can meet St. Nick following a Dec. 6 screening of “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” at Tampa Theatre. Photo courtesy of Tampa Theatre

Tampa Theatre to screen holiday classics 

TAMPA – Tampa Theatre plans to screen holiday classics on the big screen.

Some of the upcoming screenings include: 

  • “Miracle On 34th Street” (1947) at 3 p.m. Nov. 30. Before the film, guests are invited to meet and snap photos with Santa Claus in front of the Christmas tree, starting at 2 p.m. in the lobby.
  • “White Christmas” (1954) at 3 p.m. Dec. 7. This is a sing-along screening.
  • ”Elf” (2003) at 3 p.m. Dec. 14.
  • “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) at 7 p.m. Dec. 19 to 23 as well as 3 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21. 
  • “Love Actually” (2003) at 3 p.m. Dec. 28.

Tickets for Sing-Along “White Christmas” cost $16.50 ($13.50 for members). All other movies cost $12 ($9 for members) at the historic Franklin Street Box Office or online at TampaTheatre.org

Tampa Theatre and Scatter Brothers Productions will also offer a free community screening of the family-friendly holiday film “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” (2024) on Dec. 6. 

Before the film, guests are invited to meet the film’s star, Tampa’s own Daniel Roebuck (“The Munsters” and TV’s “NCIS”), in the lobby starting at 2 p.m. 

At 3 p.m., the film tells the story of Nick McNulty (Roebuck), whose downward spiral after the tragic loss of his son leads him to the realization that adopting Santa’s personality allows him to alleviate his heartache one gift at a time.

After the film, guests are invited to stick around for an audience Q&A with members of the cast and crew, followed by a very special visit from Saint Nick.

Admission is free. RSVP is required at TampaTheatre.org.

 

Nov. 19

Preteen: Oreo Tasting

Guess the flavors in an Oreo tasting challenge at Hugh Embry Library. For grades 4–7. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

4-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Mat Yoga

Join instructor Michelle Mack for a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring your own mat. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

ASL Social

Socialize using American Sign Language at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Refreshments and games provided. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

5-7 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Chess Club

Play and improve your game at Hugh Embry Library’s weekly chess meetup. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Ales and Tales Book Club at In the Loop

Discuss “True Biz” by Sara Novic at In the Loop. Ages 21+. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

6-7 p.m.; 3338 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

English Conversation Corner

Improve reading, writing and speaking with tutor support at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Nov. 20

Woodworking Open Build

Continue your woodworking projects in the foundry at Land O’ Lakes Library. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Storytime Fun!

Read, sing and dance with little learners at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Tech Help

Receive one-on-one help with computer or mobile basics from Hugh Embry Library staff. Bring a device or use a library computer. Registration required. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Preschool Storytime

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

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

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Christy presents stories, songs and fun activities at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Space is limited. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Book Club

Discuss “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

SHINE: Medicare 101

Learn about Medicare coverage and annual updates with SHINE volunteers at New River Library. Call Geralyn at 727-570-9696 ext. 234 with questions. 

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

 

Friends of the Library

Join the Friends of the Library for refreshments and conversation. Drop in anytime during a social event. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Mahjong 

Play Mahjong at New River Library. Registration required. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Concert

Enjoy The Rat Pack performance by Dave Deluca at Hugh Embry Library. Free event; seating is first come, first served. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack instructs a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat; registration not required.

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

 

Open Craft Studio

Create art, sew or work on fiber projects at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Supplies provided; instruction not included. For ages 16+. Registration required. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

5-7 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Yarn for a Cause

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

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

 

Nov. 21

Toddler Storytime

Toddlers and caregivers enjoy stories and songs at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Picture Book Party!

Join Zephyrhills Public Library for themed crafts and sensory fun inspired by favorite picture books. Dress for mess! Call 813-780-0064 for details.

10-11 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Conversation Corner

Adult learners practice English reading, writing and speaking at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

BIG Book Sale

The Friends of New River Library holds its Fall Book Sale. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Book Club

Spill the Tea Book Club discusses “The Chicken Sisters” by K.J. Dell’Antonia at Zephyrhills Public Library. Stop by the library to pick up a copy. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Open Studio Hours

Reserve time in Centennial Park Library’s creative studio to work on art, photography or other projects. Includes access to equipment and guidance. Registration required. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

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

 

Free Art Closet 

Browse the Free Art Closet at Centennial Park Library for supplies like beads, yarn and paint. Each appointment allows 10 minutes of browsing. Registration required. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

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

 

How to Draw 

Learn to draw animals, anime, zentangles and more at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. For ages 8+. First come, first served. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

3-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Nov. 22

Volunteer Orientation

Centennial Park Library invites adult volunteers to an orientation and system update. Registration required. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

10-11 a.m.; 5740 Moog Rd., Holiday

 

Thankful for Dessert

Make Thanksgiving-themed edible crafts like turkey cookies and candy cornucopias at Zephyrhills Public Library. Registration required. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

10-11 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Book Sale 

Browse the Friends of New River Library Fall Book Sale. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Supersized Storytime

Family storytime with songs, stories and dance at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

School of Rocks

MAPS Museum presents School of Rocks at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Learn about rocks, minerals, fossils and geodes. Paid ticketed event ($15 per child). Visit mapsmuseum.org for details.

10:30 a.m.-noon; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

BayCare Health Screening

Receive free health screenings including blood pressure, glucose and BMI checks at Land O’ Lakes Library. Walk-ins welcome. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Dungeons & Dragons Club

Join a safe and fun D&D group for 8th-12th graders at Centennial Park Library. New players welcome; characters up to level 3. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

2-4 p.m.; 5740 Moog Rd., Holiday

 

Pottery Exhibition & Sale

Enjoy an afternoon of art, music and community at the annual Students of San Antonio Pottery Exhibition and Sale. Browse unique handmade wheel-thrown pottery and sculptures, along with works by more than 30 Florida artists featuring watercolors, wood, photography and jewelry. Enjoy live music by The Barking Dogs plus complimentary snacks and sips. potteryflorida.com

2-6 p.m.; 11903 Curley Road, San Antonio

 

Tai Chi

Dan Suede instructs a gentle Tai Chi class at Land O’ Lakes Library. For adults at all skill levels. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

English Conversation Corner

Adults practice English conversation with trained tutors at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Conversation Corner

Improve English reading, writing and speaking skills at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 to reserve a seat.

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

 

Nov. 22–23

Early Elf Art Market

The Early Elf Art Market celebrates over 30 years of festive tradition. Sponsored by the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce, this two-day event offers a perfect opportunity to check off your holiday shopping list while supporting local artists and small businesses. Call 727-937-6109 for details.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 1 N. Pinellas Ave., Historic Downtown Tarpon Springs

 

Nov. 29

Parents’ Day Out

Give yourself the gift of peace while Dade City First United Methodist Church cares for your little ones with love and joy. The church invites ages 3-5 to a holiday day camp. Register at DCFUMC.church/parents. $25 per child.

Noon-4 p.m.; 37628 Church Ave., Dade City

 

Dec. 2

Preschool Praise and Play

Dade City First United Methodist Church invites you to 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

 

Dec. 5–6

Christmas Sale

Get into the holiday spirit at St. Joseph Catholic Church Zephyrhills Craft Club annual Christmas sale. Shop for handmade gifts, enjoy baked goods and try your luck in the raffle to win a fully decorated Christmas tree or a lighted Christmas village house. Raffle tickets cost $1 each or $5 for six. Call 813-782-2813 for details.

9 a.m.-1 p.m.; 38710 5th Ave., Zephyrhills

 

Dec. 9

Praise and Play at the Park

Dade City First United Methodist Church invites you to meet up at the Dade City Splash Pad for friends and outdoor playtime. All ages are welcome. Email with questions or text 833-374-4043 for a text reminder. 

9:30-10:30 a.m.; 14042 10th St., Dade City

 

Dec. 16

Preschool Praise and Play

Dade City First United Methodist Church invites you to 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

 

Richey Suncoast Theatre hosts Ed Roland in fundraiser

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NEW PORT RICHEY – Richey Suncoast Theatre will host a benefit concert to kick off fundraising for the nearly 100-year-old theatre located in downtown New Port Richey.

The evening will feature an intimate acoustic performance by Ed Roland, along with Jesse Tripplett and Johnny Rabb of Collective Soul. Fans can expect a one-of-a-kind show blending iconic hits with personal storytelling, all in support of preserving the theatre’s legacy for generations of performers to come.

Letters from E, an Evening with Ed Roland of Collective starts at 8 p.m. Nov. 29 at 6237 Grand Blvd. 

The event will begin with VIP cocktails and auction from 5:30 to 7 p.m., offering hors d’oeuvres, two complimentary drinks, dedicated bartender, and reserved premier seating. General admission doors open at 7:15 p.m., with the performance beginning at 8 p.m.

In addition to the performance, VIP guests will have the opportunity to bid on exclusive auction items, including a Breedlove acoustic guitar signed by members of Collective Soul, Live and Our Lady Peace during the 2025 Summer Unity Tour, as well as other band memorabilia.

Tickets start at $65. Contact the Richey Suncoast Theatre box office at 727-842-6777 or visit richeysuncoasttheatre.com/event-calendar for tickets. 

With a fundraising goal of $20,000, all proceeds will directly support the Richey Suncoast Theatre’s renovation fund, ensuring the preservation and modernization of this cultural landmark.

Sponsorship and donor opportunities are available.

 

Health & Wellness (11/19/25): State of Lung Cancer report

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Report: Florida ranks 45th in for untreated lung cancer cases

TAMPA – The American Lung Association in Florida released its 2025 State of Lung Cancer report, revealing that Florida ranks 45th in the nation for untreated lung cancer cases. 

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer deaths statewide and nationally.

The report shows Florida ranks 22nd for new cases, 42nd for early diagnosis and 29th for screening, with only 18% of high-risk individuals screened annually.

“In the last decade, we have seen incredible progress, including increases in lung cancer survival and early detection rates across the nation,” said Ashley Lyerly, senior director of advocacy. “While this progress gives us hope, Florida still has higher than the average rate of residents diagnosed with lung cancer who are seeking no treatment.”

The Lung Association urges policies requiring comprehensive biomarker testing coverage.

Learn more at Lung.org/solc or register for the Fight For Air Climb Tampa at FightForAirClimb.org/Tampa.

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding support  

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

Both events are open to all no matter which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your children. The events will be held in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North classrooms,  4211 Van Dyke Road.

  • Breastfeeding Support Group: For breastfeeding mothers, their babies and one support person (grandmother, aunt, etc.) The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. The support group will be held Dec. 11, 10 to 11 a.m.
  • Understanding Breastfeeding: This class provides information to the expectant mother and her support person about breastfeeding basics, skin-to-skin contact, tips for returning to work and when to call a health care provider or lactation consultant. The class will be held Dec. 11, 1 to 5 p.m.

 

Get answers on Medicare

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

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

They’ll answer questions at the following Medicare Basics programs: 

  • Nov. 20 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL-54, Wesley Chapel; 813-788-6375
  • Nov. 13 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th St., Dade City; 352-567-3576
  • Nov. 25 at 10:30 a.m. at the Centennial Park Library, 5740 Moog Road, Holiday; 727-834-3204.

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

 

Western-themed fundraiser nets $8,000 for Better Together

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Laurell Jones celebrates winning prize drawing during Cowboy Boots & Community Roots event. Photo courtesy of Better Together

 

Attendees mingle and enjoy refreshments during Cowboy Boots & Community Roots event. Photo courtesy of Better Together

TAMPA – The Cowboy Boots & Community Roots Helping Hands Happy Hour, hosted by the Centre Club in Tampa, recently raised $8,151 for Better Together.

The western-themed event on Oct. 9 brought together community supporters and Centre Club members to learn about Better Together’s mission and how the nonprofit provides a safety net to help families in need. The evening consisted of cocktails, games and prize drawings.

Better Together works to prevent the need for foster care by building strong families and communities. When a parent needs support due to homelessness, a medical emergency or other crisis, Better Together volunteer host families provide a safe, loving home for the children short-term, while staff and mentors empower the parents to secure employment, housing and other needs. 

Because job loss is at the root of most family crises, Better Together’s workforce program provides opportunities for all job seekers through relational job fairs and volunteer job coaches.

“If you had a medical emergency right this minute and you opened your phone’s contact list, is there one person that you could call that would drop everything?” asked Isis LaRose, vice president of strategic partnerships and market development. “All of us have emergencies, but not all of us have someone to call. The heart of our mission is to help families build that support network so that they can thrive well into the future.”

To date, Better Together has served more than 15,000 children, and 98% of children served through mentoring and hosting remain out of the foster care system. 

The nonprofit has also connected more than 46,000 job seekers to employment opportunities through church-based job fairs across 24 states.

On the web: BetterTogetherUS.org

 

News Briefs (11/21/25): Woman’s club serves Sunrise

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Linda Campos, Leesa Fryer and Gail Howard hold a donation to Sunrise of Pasco County. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen

Woman’s club serves Sunrise

LAND O’ LAKES – The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club held a bunco and luncheon fundraiser to help support  Sunrise of Pasco County, a shelter for women and children victims of domestic and sexual violence.  

Club members also filled up the Sunrise representatives’ vehicle with supplies for the women and children at the shelter.  

Tamika Thomas Simpson, of the GFWC Plant City Woman’s Club, served as the guest speaker.  Visit gfwclutzlandolakeswomansclub.org to learn more about the club. 

 

Keep Pasco Beautiful collects 25-plus tons of trash

PASCO COUNTY – More than 1,100 volunteers rolled up their sleeves for the annual Keep Pasco Beautiful Cleanup in September.

According to the county, 1,170 volunteers cleared 51,320 pounds of litter from 52 locations in Pasco County, including roadsides, parks and waterways. The effort logged 3,499.25 volunteer hours, generating a cost-benefit of $121,738.90.

“Believe it or not, nearly 80% of the trash in our waterways actually starts on land,” Keep Pasco Beautiful President Alicia Hacker said. “When our volunteers collected around 25 tons of litter, they weren’t just tidying up. They were preventing all that debris from flowing through rivers and storm drains straight into the Gulf.  That kind of impact is huge.”

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

On the web: KeepPascoBeautiful.org.

 

Wesley Chapel establishing an Elks Lodge

WESLEY CHAPEL – Wesley Chapel made a major advance toward establishing an Elks Lodge when more than 134 potential members signed the petition for a Dispensation to Institute the Lodge.

The action was taken during a meeting held Oct. 1 in the Harley-Davidson of Wesley Chapel meeting room. The petition has been forwarded to the Florida State Central District Deputy and the Florida State Elks Association’s State Sponsor. After review and approval, it will be submitted to the Grand Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks for final approval, according to Jerry Bianchi, chairman of the organization committee.

Those who signed the petition included residents from Wesley Chapel, Land O’Lakes, Lutz and New Tampa. Once the dispensation is received, a date, time and location will be scheduled for the institution of the lodge.

Bianchi explained that everyone initiated at the time of the Institution will hold charter membership. He said membership rolls will stay open until then and meetings will continue to be held regularly to process membership applications.

The organizing committee voted to set the application/initiation fee at $25. The annual dues will be determined once the lodge’s by-laws are developed and approved. It was also announced that the new lodge will be officially sponsored by St. Petersburg Lodge No. 1224.