The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

School district recognizes Excellence in Education finalists

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A surprise patrol made up of representatives from Hillsborough Education Foundation, Hillsborough County Public Schools and sponsors delivered the good news on Dec. 2. Photo courtesy of Hillsborough Education Foundation

TAMPA – Hillsborough County Public Schools, Hillsborough Education Foundation and others surprised 13 employees Dec. 2 with news that they were finalists for the 2025 Excellence in Education Awards.

Surprise visits to schools help put a spotlight on staff considered for the Teacher of the Year, Instructional Support Employee of the Year, and Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year.

Hillsborough County Public Schools considered more than 650 nominees across the three categories to determine the best of the best in the nation’s seventh largest school district. 

Finalists are as follows: 

 

Teacher of the Year Finalists

  • Adam Wilinsky, a fifth-grade math and science teacher at Pride Elementary School. 
  • Roxanne Coriell, kindergarten teacher at Hunter’s Green Elementary School. 
  • Brandie Palmer, a science resource teacher at Springhead Elementary School.
  • Montine Vona Pergola, an English teacher at Newsome High School.
  • Henry Bryson, an AICE history teacher at Leto High School.

 

Instructional Support Employee of the Year Finalists

  • Bonnie Walters, a secretary at Tampa Palms Elementary School.
  • Norma Borges-Garcia, a bilingual Spanish aide at Mort Elementary School.
  • Holly Mulholland, an ESE Unique Aide at Claywell Elementary School.
  • Susan Blackmon, an ESE Para at Oak Park Elementary School.

 

Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Finalists

  • Sherriann Johnson, a school nurse at Gibsonton Elementary School. 
  • Antonyia McCray, a success coach at Freedom High School.  
  • Edna S. Martinez Navarro, a Spanish teacher at Gaither High School.
  • Alexander Cintron Marrero, a physical education teacher at Sgt. Smith Middle School.

 

News Briefs (12/11/24): Photo contest focuses on Downtown Zephyrhills

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The GFWC Lutz-Land O’lakes Woman’s Club has long supported the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry. Photo courtesy of the club

Woman’s club donates to food pantry

LAND O’ LAKES – The GFWC Lutz-Land O’lakes Woman’s Club delivered a check for $1,000 to St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry in Land O’Lakes.  

This funding will be used to replenish food and household items on the pantry’s shelves. The pantry has seen heavy demand Hurricanes Helene and Milton.  

Visit lutzlandolakeswomansclub.org for more information about the community service organization of volunteers.

 

Photo contest focuses on Downtown Zephyrhills

Zephyrhills – The City of Zephyrhills and the Zephyrhills Community Redevelopment Agency are accepting entries for the 2025 “Why I Love Downtown Zephyrhills” Photo Contest.

The community can capture the heart and beauty of downtown while competing for cash prizes and recognition.

The contest is open to all ages, including professionals or amateurs passionate about photography.

Submit a jpg photo that highlights any aspect of downtown Zephyrhills, including: architectural buildings, Main Street festivals and events, historical landmarks, streetscapes, lifestyle moments or nature scenes, 

Email one photo to (include your full name and phone number with your submission), The submission deadline is noon Jan. 6, 2025. Only one entry per person

Photos must be an original, unpublished work. Cropping is allowed, but no filters or watermarks. 

Prizes include $100 for third place, $200 for second place and $300 for first with a chance to appear on the Florida City & County Management Association Membership Directory or website).

If selected, the photo becomes the property of the City of Zephyrhills and CRA for marketing and promotional purposes. Email lls.fl.us with questions. 

 

Boat ramp to reopen soon 

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – The Courtney Campbell Boat Ramp has been undergoing improvements. 

The boat ramp, located at 12030 W. Courtney Campbell Causeway, was expected to be closed from Dec. 9 to 12 for upgrades to the parking lot. 

The improvements are part of ongoing efforts to improve the experience for all who visit county facilities, venues and properties.

The popular ramp is expected to reopen Dec. 13.

 

Pasco must follow flood zone rules when rebuilding

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PASCO COUNTY – If recent hurricanes caused major damage to your home and you live in a flood zone, there’s a chance you’ll have to rebuild to new flood safety standards. 

Figuring out how to do this and understanding why can seem overwhelming. Pasco County Building Construction Services is available to help.

Pasco County Building Construction Services is responsible for determining if homes in flood zones are substantially damaged. Residents can learn more about how Pasco makes that determination in the chart accompanying this story. Pasco County Building Construction Services will send you a letter letting you know. 

If your letter says your home is substantially damaged, you have 90 days to decide whether to rebuild, demolish or appeal the decision. Pasco County Building Construction Services has broken down the steps into a flow chart to help you navigate the process: mypas.co/DamageFlowChart.

All homes with substantial damage must be elevated, rebuilt to new flood safety standards or demolished for the community to be able to keep National Flood Insurance Program coverage and maintain other federal benefits.

National Flood Insurance Program rules are designed to reduce repetitive flood losses covered by taxpayer dollars while helping communities be more resilient. FEMA performs audits to ensure compliance. 

If this process isn’t followed, Pasco risks:

  • Probation or suspension from the National Flood Insurance Program.
  • Loss of access to federally regulated mortgages.
  • Ineligibility for federal grants, funding and recovery assistance programs.

In addition to complying with flood zone rebuilding rules, residents must have the proper permits and should hire a licensed contractor before beginning repairs. Pasco County Building Construction Services permitting techs are ready to help residents navigate the recovery process. 

Visit mypas.co/BuildingConstruction to find an office near you. Visit the Substantial Improvement and Damage webpage at mypas.co/47Rq9bY for more information about rebuilding in a flood zone.

Chalk Talk (12/11/24): Hebrew Academy students organize Fall Festival

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Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay students enjoy its annual Fall Festival. The institution describes itself as a nationally accredited private Jewish day school in a Montessori setting. Photos courtesy of HATB
Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay students enjoy its annual Fall Festival. The institution describes itself as a nationally accredited private Jewish day school in a Montessori setting. Photos courtesy of HATB

Hebrew Academy students organize Fall Festival

TAMPA – Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay hosted its annual Fall Festival on Nov. 26. 

The school-wide event was organized by upper elementary and middle school students. 

These student mentors created booths for the younger students featuring fun game booths, exciting prizes and lively outdoor music. 

The academy also enjoyed a festive Thanksgiving meal, with each class contributing a delicious dish to share.

 

Castor announces nominations to military academies

TAMPA – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced 26 Tampa Bay-area students who received nominations for admission into America’s prestigious military academies. 

Student leaders hail from more than 10 high schools in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

“Their interest in serving our country brings great pride to our patriotic Tampa Bay community,” Castor said. “I’m grateful for the service of my nomination committee, which thoroughly reviews every application and interviews interested students. I am confident that this year’s nominees will represent the Tampa Bay Area and our nation well in their future endeavors.”

Receiving a nomination to one of our nation’s military academies is an essential step towards receiving an appointment to the academies. Nominations are earned based on interviews, academic record, extracurricular activities and leadership qualities. 

Students nominated for Air Force Academy (USAFA), Naval Academy (USNA), West Point (USMA) and the Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) include:

  • Quenten Erikson, T.R. Robinson High School – USAFA and USMA
  • Danielle Donis, Air Force Academy Preparatory School – USAFA 
  • Roman Lermer, Jesuit High School – USAFA 
  • Desmond Nunez, H.B. Plant High School – USNA and USAFA
  • James Riley, Lake Braddock Secondary School – USNA and USAFA 
  • Jessica Grasso, St. Petersburg High School – USAFA and USMA 
  • Noelle Sizemore, T.R. Robinson High School – USNA and USAFA
  • Jocelyn Sheppard, Shorecrest Preparatory School – USMA
  • William Cadden, H.B. Plant High School – USAFA and USMA
  • Hannah Hankerson, Berkeley Preparatory School – USMA
  • Xavier Terrell, Lakewood High School – USMA
  • Berlin Stanton, Canterbury School of Florida – USMA
  • Jada James, Academy of the Holy Names – USNA and USMA
  • Trace Benn, Jesuit High School – USMA
  • Rico Gordon-Dones, H.B. Plant High School – USNA and USAFA
  • Carmen Rivera, H.B. Plant High School – USNA and USAFA
  • Cyrus Lovell, H.B. Plant High School – USNA
  • Isabella Valerio, Admiral Farragut Academy – USNA and USMA
  • William Baker, H.B. Plant High School – USNA and USAFA
  • Elijah Chames R., Berkeley Preparatory School – USNA
  • Joseph Delucia Jr., – Jesuit High School – USMA
  • Carter Ford, Shorecrest Preparatory School – USMMA
  • Ava Booker, T. R. Robinson High School – USNA and USMMA
  • John McGivern, Tampa Preparatory School – USNA and USMMA
  • Dioz Cruz, Matanzas High School – USMMA
  • Noah Deane, Jefferson High School – USMMA

 

Quick Hits

  • Kevin Cravens of Lutz, graduated with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic’s Florida Campus in Port Orange, Florida, on Sept. 27. 

Adopt A Pet (10/11/24): Mae will melt your heart

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Meet Mae, a lovable and sweet dog who’s sure to steal your heart! Mae is the definition of a gentle soul – she’s extra sweet with both animals and people, making her an ideal companion for any home. Her calm and affectionate nature has made her a staff favorite here at the shelter, and it’s easy to see why once you meet her. Mae loves spending time with everyone, whether it’s cuddling on the couch, playing in the yard or simply relaxing at your feet. She’s known for her friendly and sociable personality, and she gets along wonderfully with other pets, making her the perfect addition to a multi-pet household. If you’re looking for a loving, laid-back dog with a heart of gold, Mae is the one for you. She’s ready to bring her sweet energy and endless affection to a forever home. Come meet Mae at Pasco County Animal Services today!

If you would like to adopt Mae, 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 (12/11/24): Samantha loves to snuggle

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Meet Samantha, a stunning 4-year-old calico cat who’s ready to find her forever home this holiday season! With her beautiful mix of orange, black and white fur, she’s as striking as she is sweet. Samantha is eager to start fresh with a loving family. She loves attention and will happily curl up by your side for some quality snuggle time. Samantha is social and enjoys meeting new people, so you’ll be welcomed with open paws each time you visit. This lovable calico deserves a home where she can share her warmth and charm, and she’s hoping that someone special will take her home just in time for the holidays. If you’re looking for a sweet, loyal companion, Samantha could be the perfect match for you! Meet her at Pasco County Animal Services today!

If you would like to adopt Samantha, 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.

Old Lutz School continues Christmas tradition

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LUTZ – The Citizens for the Old Lutz School are celebrating the 28th year of Christmas at the Old Lutz School.  

This year’s theme, Christmas Nutcrackers, honors Phyllis Hoedt, who passed away Oct. 1.  

Hoedt was instrumental in saving the Old Lutz School House from being torn down in 1975 and registering it as a National Historic Landmark. She shared her nutcracker collection of several hundred pieces each year to decorate for the event. This year, the GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club decorated a display with some of her collection.  

Lutz Museum has been turned into a gorgeous display of nativities, from the collection of Ben and Beth Nevel.  Wally Hoedt, son of Phyllis, has a room packed full of trees, firefighter memorabilia, and trains running through villages. Jason Burnett has shared his Lego collection. 

The tree room will display trees from area organizations and schools. 

A pump organ from the late 1800s will be in the tree room. Student volunteers will play the organ from time to time, as well as perform Christmas carols on open nights.

After a stroll through the Old Lutz School, refreshments can be enjoyed while visiting with neighbors, some reminiscing about their days as students in the historic building.

Each night, a movie will be projected in an outdoor tent.

Donations of non-perishable food items and toys will be collected and donated to Christian Social Services for the organization to share with those in need.

The event takes place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 23 and 26 at 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz. There is no charge to attend except for the Breakfast with Santa from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Dec. 14. Tickets cost $4 for children (cash preferred) and includes a donut, juice, a craft and a visit with Santa.

Donations are accepted to help continue to preserve the Old Lutz School. 

On the web: facebook.com/oldlutzschool

 

Business Digest (12/11/24): Andy’s Frozen Custard opening in Lutz

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Photo courtesy of Andy’s Frozen Custard

Andy’s Frozen Custard opening in Lutz

Springfield, Mo. – Andy’s Frozen Custard will soon open a new location in Lutz. 

The frozen custard and treat shop, known for its made fresh hourly frozen custard and baked fresh daily toppings, will open its doors in mid-December at 19081 Wingshooter Way.

“As we continue to expand, our commitment remains the same: to serve up smiles to the communities we are in, in the form of the freshest, most delicious frozen custard,” CEO and owner Andy Kuntz said. 

Andy’s serves up smooth and creamy vanilla and chocolate frozen custard transformed into Concretes, Jackhammers, shakes, malts, sundaes and hands-free products including floats, Freezes and fresh brewed iced teas.

In addition to a menu of frozen custard treats, the new Andy’s will open with a series of limited-time seasonal offerings to celebrate the holiday season: The Santa Brownie Jackhammer, Santa Brownie Sundae, and the Andy Nog Shake.  

 

Garyline celebrates factory opening

SPRING HILL – Garyline was scheduled to offer tours and hold a ribbon cutting Dec. 5 of its new location. 

The Pasco Economic Development Council announced in December 2022 that Garyline was relocating its New York operations to Pasco County.

The company leased 440,000 square feet within Harrod Properties’ North Pasco Corporate Center, significantly exceeding its initial plans to lease 279,000 square feet. 

Garyline was able to fill over 500 positions in the first six months of operating in Pasco County. The company has invested approximately $16 million to create a modern state-of-the-art manufacturing center.

Garyline has two product lines. Its Promotional Products Division manufactures, prints and assembles plastic products for the promotional industry. Its Packaging Division manufacturers stock rigid/reusable plastic containers primarily for the pharmaceutical, dental and electronics industries.

 

Greater Pasco Chamber happenings

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will hold networking events over the next week. 

  • The chamber holds its Membership Breakfast from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Dec. 13 at The Florida Room NPR, 5742 Main St., New Port Richey. Donations will be accepted for PACE Center for Girls. Register in advance. Registration costs $25 for members and $30 for others. 
  • The chamber holds its monthly ambassadors meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 17 at Zen Kitchen & Bar,  6229 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey. 
  • The Professional Women in Business convene for networking from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 18 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Register in advance. Registration costs $12 for members and $15 for others. 

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

 

Andrew Mcintosh

McIntosh named general counsel of USL

TAMPA – Shumaker lawyer Andrew L. McIntosh has been named executive vice president and general counsel of the United Soccer League.

McIntosh will continue to serve as “of counsel” with Shumaker, ensuring a continued partnership between the firm and the league.

McIntosh, a business and transactions lawyer, began his work with the USL while practicing as a partner at Shumaker. 

“Andrew’s legal acumen has been instrumental in supporting our clients across industries, and it is no surprise that he has been chosen for this exciting new role,” said Bennett Speyer, Shumaker partner and chair of the hospitality, leisure and sports business sector. “His work with the USL is a testament to his skill and reflects Shumaker’s commitment to excellence in sports law and beyond.” 

Health & Wellness (12/11/24): AI used for early colon cancer detection

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Medtronic’s GI Genius helps doctors detect colorectal polyps using AI. Photo courtesy of Medtronic

AdventHealth uses AI tech for early colon cancer detection

TAMPA – All AdventHealth hospitals in the West Florida Division are setting a new standard in colorectal cancer detection by leveraging technology that uses artificial intelligence to assist during routine colonoscopies, helping reduce the chance of missed polyps by up to 50%.

Medtronic’s GI Genius demonstrates AI’s capacity to improve diagnostic accuracy by serving as a second set of eyes for clinicians, demonstrating a 99.7%-100% sensitivity rate when screening for polyp detection and generating better patient outcomes.

“AI technology use in colonoscopy procedures is one of the most significant advancements in the field of gastroenterology,” said Dr. Maher Salam, gastroenterology department director at AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Dade City. “The Medtronic GI Genius technology aims to enhance the ability to detect precancerous polyps and adenomas in real-time during routine colonoscopies, improving early detection rates. Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR), a critical quality metric in colonoscopies for an endoscopist, has a recommended benchmark of at least 25%. Using traditional methods, my ADR is an impressive 48%. With the implementation of GI Genius, my ADR increased to 68%, showcasing its remarkable effectiveness.”

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of all cancer-related deaths for U.S. men and women combined. When precancerous conditions are identified early by physicians, colorectal cancer patients can have a five-year survival rate of over 90%. The American Cancer Society recommends people at average risk of colorectal cancer start regular screening at age 45. People at increased or high risk of colorectal cancer might need to start screenings earlier. 

“AdventHealth is deeply committed to advancing tools and techniques that enable the early detection of colon cancer,” said Dr. Michel Murr, medical director of the AdventHealth Digestive Health Institute. “Studies have consistently shown that increasing the ADR significantly reduces the risk of developing colon cancer.”

 

Team members from St. Joseph’s Hospital-North emergency department with the American Heart Association’s stroke care award. Photo courtesy of BayCare Health System

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North Honored for Stroke Care

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North has received the American Heart Association’s 2024 Get With The Guidelines – Stroke Silver Plus quality achievement award.

The honor is for ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately leading to more lives saved and reduced disability.

In conjunction with the stroke award, St. Joseph’s Hospital-North also received the American Heart Association’s Target: StrokeSM Elite Honor Roll award. To qualify, hospitals must meet criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.

Early stroke detection and treatment are key to improving survival, minimizing disability and accelerating recovery times.

“This award is significant to St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in terms of showing the dedication that the whole team has in terms of patient care for strokes that present to the Emergency Department,” said Dr. Katrina Cordero, emergency department director at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North. 

 

The Straz Center plans to break ground on the AdventHealth Riverwalk Stage in 2025. The venue will anchor the Straz Center’s Boundless Campaign, bringing free, world-class performances to the Tampa Riverwalk. Rendering courtesy of the Straz Center.

AdventHealth to partner with the Straz Center for the Performing Arts

TAMPA – AdventHealth is partnering with the Straz Center for the Performing Arts to support its Boundless Campaign. The campaign will transform the arts center’s physical spaces and grow its endowment.

AdventHealth’s support will contribute to the development of the AdventHealth Riverwalk Stage along the Tampa Riverwalk. The collaboration will also extend to the Straz Center’s summer camps and classes at the Patel Conservatory.

“Engaging with the arts, whether through creating, performing or appreciating—offers a holistic way to understand complex feelings and experiences,” said David Ottati, president and CEO, AdventHealth West Florida Division. “These moments of laughter, connection and reflection enrich the emotional, psychological and social aspects of who we are as people. At AdventHealth, integrating the arts into whole-person care is a natural extension of our mission to nurture mind, body and spirit.”

 

Hospital supports Zephyrhills tradition

ZEPHYRHILLS, – AdventHealth Zephyrhills got into the holiday spirit Dec. 1 by participating in the Zephyrhills Tree Lighting Ceremony. 

The community could walk the AdventHealth Zephyrhills fitness trail filled with holiday cards, refreshments and seasonal activities. 

“After 40 years, the annual Christmas tree lighting continues to be a treasured event that brings our community together.” said Mike Murrill, president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Connerton. “We recognize the importance of these moments of joy and connection, especially during the holiday season. Events like this remind us of the strength and spirit of our local community and we are proud to be a part of such a meaningful tradition.”

 

Health organizations donate Thanksgiving meals

ZEPHYRHILLS, – AdventHealth Zephyrhills, in collaboration with Fresh Start for Pasco and local community leaders, donated Thanksgiving meals Nov. 25 to residents of the Southern Charm RV Community.

The community of nearly 1,200 people has faced challenges since Hurricane Milton. 

“We are grateful for the opportunity to join with Fresh Start for Pasco and other local organizations to provide a warm meal and a sense of community during this difficult time,” said Chaplain Andrés Sequera, director of Mission & Ministry at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. “This is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a big impact on those who need it most, especially during the holiday season.”