The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

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

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Tampa Theatre to screen Star Wars trilogy

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

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

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

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

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

 

Theater group announces new slate of productions

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

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

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

On the web: newtampaplayers.org

 

County under burn ban

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

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

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

 

Animals services halts dog intakes due to pneumovirus

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

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

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

 

Group pays tribute to veterans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On the web: AugustaJanesUDC.org

 

Club supports veterans

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

They welcomed home veterans returning from Honor Flight 52.

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

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

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

On the web: gfwclutzlandolakeswomansclub.org

 

HART earns budgeting award

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

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

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

On the web: goHART.org

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

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Moffitt Cancer Center cheers construction milestones 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

County using sterile mosquitoes to prevent disease

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

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

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

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

 

Report explores air quality

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

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

Findings for the Tampa Bay metro area include:

Ground-level Ozone Pollution:

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

Short-Term Spikes in Particle Pollution:

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

Year-Round Average Level of Particle Pollution:

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

 

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

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

Construction firm puts $95K toward teen homelessness

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

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

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

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

 

Chamber to award scholarships

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

The chamber opened sponsorships to member businesses. 

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

 

Hillsborough seeks applications for workforce board

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

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

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

 

North Tampa Bay events

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

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

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

 

Greater Pasco events

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

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

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

 

East Pasco events

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

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

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

 

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

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

Student artwork supports art education in schools

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

Saint Leo University marks record-breaking Giving Day

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Students, schools recognized for civic engagement

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

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

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

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

Elementary school winners:

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

Middle school winners:

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

 

Dashow gets in honor society

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

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

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

 

Culpepper makes Who’s Who

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

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

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

Student draws inspiration from home to graduate college

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Dual enrollment gives grads a head start on college

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Samuel Wu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

 

Saint Leo nursing students ready to graduate  

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During her junior year in 2024, Saint Leo University nursing student Grace Lundfelt listens to the heart of “patient” Kim Manning, clinical nurse educator, at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. Caroline Jorgensen/Saint Leo University

ST. LEO – They are the first. They made it through their general classes, passed CPR and additional tests and achieved the minimum 3.3 GPA to become nursing students their junior year. Then they studied, worked in health care, learned to draw blood and give injections, practiced their skills, and studied some more. Now, they will be Saint Leo University’s first graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program.

Twelve students make up the first cohort to graduate from the university’s nursing program. 

“They didn’t simply meet the expectations of our program. They helped shape them,” faculty member Paige Porter said. “Their legacy sets the standard for those who will follow in their footsteps.”

 

Program’s beginnings

Not only did the university recognize the need for nurses when it launched the bachelor’s degree in 2021, but so did the Florida Legislature, Gov. Ron DeSantis, area health care and government leaders, and several donors. 

They provided additional funds to build the program and create learning spaces for the future health professionals. In February 2025, Saint Leo held the grand opening for its new nursing space on the second floor of Benedictine Hall. The space includes two conference rooms, two classrooms, five offices, three simulation rooms, an assessment room, a simulation control room, a nursing lab, a lounge and study spaces.

“Our simulations were very well thought out and creative, using the most up-to-date technology, allowing us to experience certain health situations such as delivering babies and providing wound care,” said senior Laynee Marsee, of the opportunities provided by the new simulation rooms and equipment.

 

Self-Care equals better patient care

Four themes are embedded in Saint Leo’s nursing courses: evidence-based practice, interprofessional communication, culture of health and clinician well-being. Saint Leo’s nursing students not only are learning how to take care of others, but they’re also learning to take care of themselves.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, “we saw many nurses leave the profession,” said Kathleen Van Eerden, dean of the College of Health Professions. “We saw how important it was for nurses to be resilient and to manage stress.”

She said it was important for Saint Leo’s program to help students build the skills they need to be happy in their choice so that they have a long career in nursing.

“Understanding that nursing has a high probability of burnout and compassion fatigue can help me be more aware of work-life balance and taking breaks when I need them,” said soon-to-be nursing graduate Nathanael Allen.

Senior Mekhai Dinnard said the program’s focus on clinician well-being made a difference in how she handles stress. Dinnard balanced her studies with working two to three jobs – as a nurse extern at Moffitt Cancer Center and as a registered behavior technician working with children on the autism spectrum. 

“Nursing school is hard and being a new graduate nurse will be extremely hard as well, especially in the beginning,” Dinnard said. “It’s important that I prioritize my mental health in order to give the best care possible to my patients.”

 

Unique approach to nursing education

During spring semester 2024, the nursing program’s then-juniors embarked on new journey in clinical education and gained one-on-one training with nurse preceptors (mentors) at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. 

Thanks to a partnership between the university and AdventHealth, an innovative Dedicated Education Unit was created to train future nurses and possible employees. 

In the typical clinical model, a nursing instructor in the hospital mentors eight nursing students, and each student initially is assigned to one patient. But with the DEU model, because the student is paired with their mentor, the student actually works alongside that nurse, who usually is assigned a caseload of patients. 

Saint Leo students worked side-by-side for 12-hour shifts with their mentors and university nursing instructor Porter.

In 2025, the DEU program expanded to include AdventHealth Dade City.

Ava Valenti’s favorite part of the nursing program was the clinicals. 

“Especially the DEU where I got to apply everything I learned in real time with a single preceptor,” she said. “The hands-on experience made the lectures come to life and helped me build confidence in my skills.”

As students worked in various units at AdventHealth Zephyrhills and Dade City, they gained insight to different types of nursing.

“My most important moments were spent in their [AdventHealth] ICU where I was able to know with confidence that I wanted to pursue that type of nursing,” Martina Encomienda said. “I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to rotate through Critical Care with them.”

Learning about all the opportunities available in the future was key for nursing student Alexis Musser. 

“I look forward to all of the opportunities to come,” she said. “I feel a sense of security knowing that there are so many different jobs and specialties within the field of nursing. There is never a ‘dead-end.’”

 

The next chapter

As Saint Leo’s nursing students prepare to graduate on May 7 and enter various health care fields, they’re proud to be the first cohort. 

“This program taught me that I am far more capable than I ever thought I could be,” said Emily Edwards. “I have learned and experienced more than I thought I would in the short time I have been in the program. It has given me the strength I needed to not only pursue this career, but also find a passion for it.”

The seniors will take part in a pinning ceremony May 5 at the Student Community Center. They will receive a pin representing their graduation from Saint Leo University’s nursing program.

Nursing pinning ceremonies are rooted in history. The ceremony has ties to Florence Nightingale, known as a founder of modern nursing. For her work during the Crimean War, she received the Red Cross of St. George in the 1860s. Saint Leo’s nursing graduates proudly will wear their pins, indicating they have the skills and compassion to join the field.

Some of the students have accepted positions or have offers locally at AdventHealth, Lakeland Regional Health, Tampa General Hospital, Moffit Cancer Center and BayCare health care facilities.

“They are ready – more than ready – to take their place in the world as nurses,” Porter said. “And I’m truly honored to have been part of their story.”

 

Chalk Talk (04/23/25): Tellez wins CTE award

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Tellez wins CTE award

WESLEY CHAPEL – Pasco County Schools recognized Jacqueline Tellez, of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, as the CTE Teacher of the Year.

Deedra Mitchell, of the district’s Office of Career, Technical and Adult Education, read a letter from Kirkland Principal Danielle Castro during the April 15 school board meeting. 

“Her unwavering focus on doing what is best for her students is truly inspiring and sets a remarkable example for all educators,” Castro wrote of Tellez. “Her ability to differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of her students is commendable. By tailoring her teacher methods she ensures that each student has the opportunity to succeed and pass their industry certifications.”

Backed by family, Tellez explained how much she loves teaching. 

“I’m so honored and humbled by this amazing honor,” Tellez said. “I can not thank Pasco County Schools enough for all the leadership opportunities that I’ve had throughout my career. I am just humbled and I love my students.”

 

ESE teacher gets kudos

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County Schools recognized teacher Renee Angilella on April 15 for her contributions to Richey Elementary School. 

Tammy Berryhill, principal of Richey Elementary, spoke very highly of Angilella, who teaches exceptional students and serves as a team leader for Exceptional Student Education staff.

“Her hard work, her sensitivity to both those students in need and adults and her ability to put others at ease with her kind and compassionate nature has made a significant impact on our school environment,” Berryhill said. “She has a talent for creating a supportive and nurturing atmosphere that fosters growth and learning.”

Berryhill also compliments Angilella on her “unparalleled” attention to detail and documentation.

“I was talking to someone the other day and i said, ‘we do what we do because we love it and it’s an honor.’” Angilella said. “I stand for all the other teachers and educators and people that support all of our students in Pasco. No matter the job capacity that you do, you’re making a difference everyday and our students are truly blessed to have all of us.”