The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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. 

 

‘Lamb of God’ performance brings different faiths together

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Harmony of Faith is a nonprofit that fosters interfaith unity through the arts. The group performs Rob Gardner’s “Lamb of God” March 29 at the Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel. Photo courtesy of Gina Dotson

WESLEY CHAPEL – Harmony of Faith offered an opportunity for people of different faiths to come together in celebration of hope and shared humanity during a performance of Rob Gardner’s “Lamb of God” March 29 at the Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel.

The concert, which is about the final days of Jesus, also provided an opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the upcoming Easter season.  

“This performance is more than just a concert,” said Zach Tanner, director of Harmony of Faith Florida. “It’s a celebration of the strength that comes from coming together across differences to create something beautiful and transformative. We believe that through music, we can bridge divides and inspire each other to live with greater hope and empathy.”

Garret Steed, who played Thomas in the production, is part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Garret said he hoped those who came out felt a connection to their Savior through the music. 

Indiana Duncan plays bass in the orchestra and worships at a non-denominational Christian Church.

“The thing that has touched me most about this experience is the music because I have found that the messages found in ‘Lamb of God’ are so powerful and they never fail to bring me hope,” Duncan said. 

Susan Duncan, who is part of the Society of Friends faith, recalled how she didn’t want to leave after bringing her son to his first orchestra rehearsal last year.

“It’s because of what I get just from being near the energy of so many talented people all working towards the same goal and with the same passion,” she said. “I hope that those who attend the concert that feel lost, less than, weary, or broken will feel the truth through this music.  That truth that Christ gave us all the greatest gift: the gift of hope.”

Want to learn more?

Harmony of Faith hopes to build bridges between communities of different religious backgrounds, fostering dialogue, mutual respect and shared values. Email for details about Harmony of Faith and how to get involved.

 

Tampa Bay pro athletes raise awareness for nonprofits

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TAMPA  – The Baker & Emily Mayfield Foundation announced that Brandon Lowe, second baseman for the Tampa Bay Rays, and the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay won the 2025 Giving Bowl. 

The Giving Bowl brought together five Tampa Bay athletes from the Buccaneers, Lightning, Sun FC and Rays, to help raise awareness, money and support for charities through a three-week bracket-style fundraising challenge.

“This has been an amazing three weeks of giving back to the Tampa community, and we are honored to play a small part in the great work the crisis center and all the participating charities do for the Tampa Bay community,” Emily Mayfield said. “A huge thank you to all the athletes and charities who participated. We hope this continues to bring Tampa closer together, and we can’t wait to see the amazing things we can all do together in the years to come.”

Lowe and the Crisis Center outshined Ryan McDonagh and First Responders Children’s Foundation as well as Erika Tymrak and the Humane Society of Tampa Bay in the bracket challenge. 

“I want to sincerely thank all those who generously donated to support our cause,” Lowe said. “It is truly remarkable that we were able to raise awareness about mental health. The funds raised and prize money from the Baker & Emily Mayfield Foundation will ensure that individuals in need have access to the Crisis Center’s services. I can’t thank you all enough.”

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay earned a $50,000 donation. 

“We so appreciate Brandon Lowe of the Tampa Bay Rays for choosing us as his charity partner, and to the Baker & Emily Mayfield Foundation for hosting the Giving Bowl,” said Clara Reynolds, president & CEO for the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. “This event was not only enjoyable but also significantly contributed to raising awareness about our mission throughout the community.”

While the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay came out on top, every participating charity received a donation from the foundation and leveraged the Giving Bowl opportunity to raise funds and awareness from the community at large. The Baker & Emily Mayfield Foundation donated a total of $92,500 across the five participating charities.

Participating athletes and charity winnings were as follows: 

  • Brandon Lowe (Tampa Bay Rays) and Crisis Center of Tampa Bay – $50,000.
  • Erika Tymrak (Tampa Bay Sun FC) and Humane Society of Tampa Bay – $20,000.
  • Bucky Irving (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) and After-School All-Stars – $10,000.
  • Ryan McDonagh (Tampa Bay Lightning) and First Responders Children’s Foundation – $10,000.
  • Chris Godwin (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) and Team Godwin Foundation  – $2,500.

The Baker & Emily Mayfield Foundation provides programs, scholarships and philanthropic opportunities to help others tackle life’s challenges in order to “BE” the best version of themselves. The foundation recognizes the resilience of the human spirit and supports those who persevere despite difficult circumstances. 

On the web: bemayfield.org