The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Adopt a Pet (02/05/25): Callie is a gentle companion

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Meet Callie, a sweet and wiggly 9-year-old lady who’s ready to bring all the love into your home! She’s a pro on the leash, loves spending time with her humans, and is always happy to show off her sit for a tasty treat. Callie has had positive interactions with children and strangers, making her a gentle companion. While she enjoys the company of people, she may prefer to be the only dog in the home, as she’s still figuring out her canine friendships. If you’re looking for a loyal and affectionate companion, Callie would love to meet you. Come visit her today at Pasco County Animal Services!

If you would like to adopt Callie, 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 (02/05/25): Roxie loves making biscuits

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Meet Roxie, the sweet tabby with a white chest who’s all about cozy snuggles and purring up a storm! Roxie loves to make “biscuits” with her paws, a sure sign she’s a relaxed, happy girl. When she’s not doing that, you’ll find her rolling over for belly rubs and soaking up all the scratches she can get. Roxie has a heart full of love and is ready to share it with a family who’ll give her the attention she craves. If you’re looking for a cuddly, affectionate companion, Roxie might just be the perfect fit! Come meet her today at Pasco County Animal Services!

If you would like to adopt Roxie, 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.

 

Pasco County hospitals receive high recognition from Healthgrades

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AdventHealth Wesley Chapel in Pasco County made Healthgrades’ Best list. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

WESLEY CHAPEL – Pasco County’s AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and AdventHealth Zephyrhills have received recognition for clinical excellence from Healthgrades. 

Both AdventHealth Wesley Chapel and AdventHealth Zephyrhills are in the West Florida Division of AdventHealth.

AdventHealth Wesley Chapel is on Healthgrades’ America’s 250 Best Hospitals list for the second year in a row and is in the top 10% in the nation for Critical Care. 

Among its accolades, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel was named a Five-Star Recipient for Treatment of Heart Failure for the third consecutive year, a Five-Star Recipient for Treatment of Stroke for the sixth year in a row, named among the Top 10% in the Nation for Overall Pulmonary Services for the third year in a row, a Five-Star Recipient for Treatment of GI Bleed for the seventh consecutive year.

“There is nothing more important than providing the best medical outcomes for our patients,” said Dr. Robert Rosequist, chief medical officer for AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. “That is why we do what we do, and to be recognized for the hard work of our doctors, nurses, and staff is very special.”

AdventHealth Zephyrhills received accolades for neurosciences, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and critical care. Its honors include being named a Five-Star Recipient for Treatment of Stroke for the second year in a row, honored among the Top 10% in the Nation for Overall Pulmonary Services for the third consecutive year, a Five-Star Recipient for Colorectal Surgeries for five years in a row, and it was named among the Top 10% in the Nation for Critical Care for the fourth consecutive year.

“Our community depends on us to deliver quality care in their time of need,” said Dr. Ryan Reed, chief medical officer for AdventHealth Zephyrhills. “All of us at AdventHealth Zephyrhills are proud to provide these life-saving services to our community each and every day.”

Healthgrades helps consumers find and select a hospital that excels in providing the care they need.

As part of its 2025 hospital assessment, Healthgrades evaluated risk-adjusted mortality and complication rates for over 30 of the most common conditions and procedures at 4,500 hospitals nationwide to determine the top performers in specialty care. 

On the web: healthgrades.com 

What’s Happening (02/05/25): Hot Boys to reunite in Tampa

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The Hot Boys performed during Lil’ WeezyAna Fest 2024. Photo courtesy of @megyuup/Live Nation Urban

The Hot Boys to reunite in Tampa

CHARLOTTE – Live Nation Urban announced an exclusive three-performance slate of shows headlined by Lil Wayne with special guests Hot Boys (B.G., Juvenile and Turk), presented by Lil’ WeezyAna. 

The three-show run includes a stop Feb. 21 at Amalie Arena in Tampa. Buy tickets at lilweezyanafest.com.

Lil Wayne, B.G., Juvenile and Turk took the stage together for the first time in over 15 years at last year’s sold-out Lil’ WeezyAna Fest in New Orleans. They treated audience members to a performance filled with hits like “I Need a Hot Girl” and “Neighborhood Superstar,” as well as their individual tracks like Juvenile’s “Back That Azz Up” and B.G.’s “Bling Bling.” 

 

Feb. 5

Valentine’s Stroll Buy

Stop by the Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center  and find something for your sweetheart. The Friends of the Starkey Ranch Library will have a stroll buy through Feb. 12 with books, crafts, gifts and cards with a Valentine’s Day feel! 

Various times; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Feb. 6

Kumihimo 

Land O’ Lakes Library offers a Kumihimo for beginners ages 18 years and older. Registration is required. The project will be a basic eight cord round braid using the round disc. All materials will be provided. All Makerspace programs require registration, closed-toe shoes, and completed Foundry Waiver & Safety Playbook forms. Forms are available at the Service Desk or can be read and printed from pascolibraries.org/makerspaces/the-foundry/. Registration is required. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

10:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes 

 

Feb. 7 

Bazaar/Bake Sale

The Betmar Hobby Club hosts a Bazaar & Bake Sale in the 55-and-older community’s annex. The sale will feature homemade treasures.

9 a.m.-noon; 37137 Lakewood Drive, Zephyrhills

 

Preschool Praise and Play 

Dade City First United Methodist Church opens the Sanctuary every first Friday of the month for a free community preschool playtime. Enjoy a scripture story, music, craft and playtime with new friends. Activities are geared towards toddlers and preschoolers but all ages are welcome. Email for questions. 9:30-10:30 a.m.; 37628 Church Ave., Dade City

 

Creative Coloring for Adults 

Let your creativity flow and your stress melt away at South Holiday Library’s weekly coloring program. Materials will be provided including gel pens, colored pencils, markers and many coloring pages. Creative Coloring for Adults  is presented by the Friends of the South Holiday Library.

2-3 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Bingo

Hugh Embry Library hosts bingo for prizes. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

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

 

Feb. 8 

Master Gardeners

Come find out what plants, even native to Florida, are toxic to dogs and cats at Zephyrhills Public Library. This Master Gardener seminar will help you identify which plants in your home and garden are toxic and how to protect your pets, while still enjoying the plants with proper precautions. Register in advance at eventbrite.com. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

9:30-10:50 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills 

 

Therapy Dogs

All children are welcome to come in and meet the therapy dogs of Highland Canine Connect and practice their reading with the dogs at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

Hugs & Hippos 

Join Regency Park Library for a sweet Saturday story time with songs and stories featuring hippos and hugs. All ages welcome. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Prehistoric Wonders 

Discover the world of paleontology with Charles Zidar from M.A.P.S. Museum during Prehistoric Wonders: A Paleontology Journey with MAPS Museum at Centennial Park Library. Dive into the ancient past as he showcases fossils and artifacts that unveil the secrets of prehistoric life and dinosaurs. Friends of the Centennial Park Library is sponsoring the program. Call 727-834-3204 for details. 

3:30-4:30 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Feb. 9

Black Love

Tampa Theatre screens the PG-13 sci-fi drama “Fast Color” during the Black Love series. Tickets for the Black Love classics series cost $10 ($7 for Tampa Theatre members) and are available at the historic Franklin Street Box Office and online at www.TampaTheatre.org. Guests are invited to come early (2 p.m.) to meet some of Tampa’s blerd community and join in a conversation about centuries-old stereotypes, pop culture and claiming their space.

3 p.m.; 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa

 

Feb. 10

Art Club

The Zephyrhills Art Club meets at the First Baptist Church. The club offers demonstrations and workshops.  Guests should use the back entrance.  Call Sandra Lallemand at 352-523-1213 for details.

7 p.m.; 38231 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills

 

Feb. 11

Garden Club

The Land O’ Lakes Garden Club meets at the Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park. facebook.com/lolgcfl/

10:30 a.m.; 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Gardener Program

The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society presents Fire: Florida’s First Gardener at  the Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park Community Center. The presentation highlights some differences between fire-dependent and fire-tolerant plant communities and how lightning and indigenous people have used fire to shape the landscape for hundreds of years. Chapter meetings are free and open to the public. Email or visit PascoNativePlants.org for details. 

7 p.m.; 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Feb. 13

Dance Company

The Jon Lehrer Dance Company brings its signature athletic and artistic brand of dance to New Tampa Performing Arts Center. The dance company showcases a fusion of jazz and modern dance. Tickets cost $15-$20 depending on the seat. Buy them at NewTampaArtsCenter.org/Tickets.

7:30 p.m.; 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa

 

Feb. 14

Tampa Bay Symphony 

The Tampa Bay Symphony performs “Scandinavian Romance” at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center. The symphony consists of over 80 musicians. Buy tickets at NewTampaArtsCenter.org/Tickets.

8 p.m.; 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa

 

Feb. 16

Black Love

Tampa Theatre screens the 2022 supernatural horror film “Nope” during the Black Love series. Tickets for the Black Love classics series cost $10 ($7 for Tampa Theatre members) and are available at the historic Franklin Street Box Office and online at www.TampaTheatre.org. Guests are encouraged to stay after the film for a deep-dive discussion into director Jordan Peele’s storytelling and directorial choices.

3 p.m.; 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa

 

Feb. 17

Democratic Club

The East Pasco Democratic Club talks about the Tuskegee Airman and 2025 club goals at the Genesis Center and on Zoom. All friends of the Democratic Party are welcome. Refreshments are provided. eastpascodems.com 

6:30 p.m.; 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills

 

Feb. 21

Garden Club

The Dade City Garden Club invites the community to sip, savor and mingle during the Botanical Cocktail Social. Attendees enjoy festive botanical cocktails along with a mocktail and tea option. Garden club hostesses will explain how to create botanical beverages using ingredients you can grow in your own garden. Light bites will also be served to complement the evening. The cost of the program is $20 for club members and $25 for others. Must be 21 and older to attend. Buy tickets at dadecitygardenclub.com.

6-8 p.m.; 13630 5th St, Dade City

 

Concerts

Greggie and The Jets performs during the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation’s 2024-25 Performing Arts Series at the PHSC Performing Arts Center. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.

7 p.m.; 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey

 

Fleetwood Mac Tribute 

Fleatwood Mac performs the “The Premier Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show” at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center. Tickets cost $20-$25, depending on the seat. Buy tickets at NewTampaArtsCenter.org/Tickets.

8 p.m.; 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa

 

Feb. 22

Train Show

Regal Railways presents a Model Train Show/Sale with more than 60 tables at Elks Lodge. Vendors will sell various model trains, toys and more. There will be a running train layout. Refreshments will be available for sale. Admission costs $6 for adults and free for ages 12 and younger. Credit cards are accepted to get into the show. Prepay at regalrailways.com.

9 a.m.-2 p.m.; 7201 Congress St., New Port Richey

 

Sankofa 

Join Kuumba dancers and drummers to experience the rhythms, songs, and dances of the African diaspora at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center. Tickets cost $15-$20, depending on the seat. Buy tickets at NewTampaArtsCenter.org/Tickets.  

8 p.m.; 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa

 

Feb. 23

Black Love

Tampa Theatre screens the 2016 film “Hidden Figures” during the Black Love series. Tickets for the Black Love classics series cost $10 ($7 for Tampa Theatre members) and are available at the historic Franklin Street Box Office and online at www.TampaTheatre.org. Guests are encouraged to stay after the film for a panel discussion featuring local Black women who are making waves in STEM-based careers.

3 p.m.; 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa

 

Cinderella Tale

Kuumba dancers and drummers bring “TIMINI” to the New Tampa Performing Arts Center. Taking place in the village of Fadiout, Senegal, “TIMINI” is the classic tale of Cinderella reimagined and brought to life through African music, dance, storytelling and audience participation. Tickets cost $15-$20, depending on the seat. Buy them at NewTampaArtsCenter.org/Tickets.  

3 p.m.; 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa

 

Feb. 26-27

Dr. Bryan Thatcher speaks at the Answers to Big Questions event. The event benefits people seeking forgiveness for past mistakes or searching for true peace in your life. Expect Uplifting discussions on forgiveness and peace, insights on the message of divine mercy and fellowship. 

6:30 to 8 p.m.; 2348 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Feb. 28

Pavlo in Concert

Pavlo performs a night of Spanish, Flamenco, and Mediterranean guitar at the New Tampa Performing Arts Center. Tickets cost $50. Visit NewTampaArtsCenter.org for details. 

7:30 p.m.; 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa

 

March 21

Concerts

Rocky and The Rollers performs during the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation’s 2024-25 Performing Arts Series at the PHSC Performing Arts Center. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.

7 p.m.; 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey

 

March 22

Plant Sale

Nature Coast Chapter of Florida Native Plant Society sponsors a Florida Native Plant Sale with a large selection of native plants and books for sale along with free literature about planting, landscaping and promoting all things native at Harvester Community Church. Email or visit PascoNativePlants.org for details. 

10 a.m.-2 p.m.; 2432 Collier Pkwy., Land O Lakes 

 

April 4

Concerts

Shades of Buble performs during the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation’s 2024-25 Performing Arts Series at the PHSC Performing Arts Center. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.

7 p.m.; 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey

 

Fuelfest launching inaugural Tampa show

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FuelFest brings the passion of the automotive community to major cities across the globe, showcasing an eclectic collection of cars and music while creating an everlasting experience that leaves fans looking forward to the next event. Photo courtesy of FuelFest

 

TAMPA – Following record-setting shows in South Florida since 2022, FuelFest is set to open gates for its inaugural show at the Florida State Fairgrounds.

Now in its seventh year of hosting events globally, FuelFest blends the enthusiast’s passion for the automotive world with appearances by “Fast & Furious” franchise stars Tyrese Gibson and Cody Walker, live action drifting, live music on the festival stage, a huge car show, automotive culture and dozens of custom exhibits.

The show will feature more than 800 top custom, exotic, rare and exclusive cars and trucks, plus drift ride-alongs and “Fast and Furious” screen used movie cars, various interactive fan racing activities and attractions. Judged car show sections and best of show awards and trophies are new for 2025. 

The FuelFest drift pits are open access, allowing fans to get up close to their favorite race cars and see what these amazing machines are all about. 

FuelFest will also feature the Taste of Tokyo, giving fans a Japanese underground car meet vibe with a variety of cars you’re likely to see in the streets of Tokyo.        

For those looking to elevate the experience, FuelFest offers VIP access with premium benefits, early admission access for FuelClub members, limited edition merchandise, free swag and auctions.

A portion of the event’s proceeds benefit Reach Out WorldWide, the nonprofit founded by Paul Walker and continued by his brother, Cody Walker. The organization was created after a massive earthquake devastated Haiti with the inspiration to organize a relief team that responded to the disaster. ROWW’s mission is to fill the gap between the availability of skilled resources in post-disaster situations. As of 2024, ROWW has raised over $580,000 through the partnership with FuelFest to benefit those in need and has deployed resources to several disaster areas, including recently Asheville, N.C. and Englewood, Florida, following hurricanes.

 

Want to go?

FuelFest will take place from 1 to 8 p.m. March 1 at the Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301 N. Tickets start at $35. Children 12 and younger get in free. Buy tickets at FuelFest.com. 

 

Pasco leaders discuss homelessness during budget talks

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NEW PORT RICHEY – Members of the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners discussed issues relating to homelessness during their Jan. 28 meeting.

The topic came up while Amielee Farrell, director of Pasco County’s Office of Management and Budget, was giving a presentation regarding the county’s budget for fiscal year 2026.

That budget will be effective from Oct. 1, 2025, through Sept. 30, 2026.

Farrell had said one of the priorities the county should address over the next five years should include enhancing the quality of life through better public safety and public health.

Reducing homelessness was one of the things Farrell emphasized would need to be done.

“When you mention public health and safety, homelessness kind of fits into bucket one and bucket two,” District 2 Commissioner Seth Weightman said. 

Weightman said he thought the number of homeless people living on the east side of the county “is probably as high as it’s ever been.”

“I really want to understand our options,” Weightman said. “I want to be as disciplined as possible with how much money we throw at it.

“We’re putting it towards people who don’t give two bits about other people’s property or businesses. They don’t care about themselves. They don’t care about this county. They don’t care about what they are doing.

“I want to be very deliberate and aggressive about how we tackle this problem.

“Can we get them to their next of kin? These people who are doing what they’re doing should not be our taxpayers’ problem. This is a family problem and their families should take care of it.

“It’s going to cost some money but I don’t want to invest anything in them because they don’t care. I think we have broadly gone abound this topic but we haven’t narrowed down and defined what we can do as a board. I’m ready to go to level 10 and put our foot down to make some real changes here.”

District 5 Commissioner Mike Mariano also spoke about homelessness.

“I know that we’ve been victimized by people from other places bringing people from other places to here … and they come here,” Mariano said. 

“I don’t want to be the beacon for the homeless to come. Take care of our own, etc., but anyone from a different place – I think it’s a program to go with. We did a panhandling ordinance and that didn’t work.

“I agree it’s a big problem but if you keep giving them a way where they can stay in the woods and do their drugs, they’re going to stay in the woods and do their drugs.”

District 1 Commissioner Ron Oakley also weighed in on the issue.

“Some of the property owners need to trespass people,” Oakley said. “The landowners that own some of this land that they’re trespassing on do not do their part to make sure that they get off that land.”

District 3 Commissioner Kathryn Starkey said she understood Weightman’s frustration and saw it too.

“But I just want to be careful not to paint all of them with the same brush,” Starkey said. 

She talked about a young father whom she had seen at a Home Depot a couple of years ago. He, his wife, and their two children had been evicted from where they had been living because he had been sick for a week and missed one paycheck. That caused him to be behind on the rent, Starkey said.

He told her that he still had a job but didn’t have enough money to rent another place to live. He also told her he was looking for a tent that he and his family could use to live in at Starkey Wilderness Park. 

“There are places where people just need a little bit of a helping hand,” Starkey said. “Then we have the other ones that don’t care. They want to live in the woods. They like living that way. I want to be careful because we have both situations going on.”

District 4 Commissioner Lisa Yeager, pointed to organizations like One Community Now that will help displaced people with a housing payment or stay at a hotel.

Starkey said the family she had referred to were helped to get into another place to live.

She suggested commissioners hold a workshop sometime in the future to discuss solutions to the county’s homelessness issue. Solutions that arise in workshops must be presented in regular meetings before they may be acted upon.

 

Business Digest (02/05/25): Streetleaf calls for storm-resilient communities

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Streetleaf’s lights are IoT smart devices connected to a remote monitoring dashboard that can identify potential problems before an outage occurs, identify current outages without the need for customer reporting, and allow for remote control of brightness settings. Photo courtesy of Streetleaf

Streetleaf advocates building storm-resilient communities

TAMPA – Streetleaf has launched its Shine On Florida initiative, a call to action for utility companies, local governments, home builders, HOAs and residents to rethink current infrastructure choices.

Streetleaf’s solar-powered streetlights are built to withstand Category 5 hurricanes and tropical storms, and remain operational even during widespread power outages. 

As part of Shine on Florida, Streetleaf seeks to connect with any and all new projects in Florida to provide a bid for their street and area lighting projects in 2025. 

Whether for new developments, municipal upgrades or private projects, Streetleaf pledges to install the streetlights within three months of any signed contract in Florida in 2025. 

Further, any lights that are purchased before April 1 will be installed prior to the start of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.

On the web: www.streetleaf.com

 

Tax filing season is underway 

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service has opened the 2025 tax filing season and is now accepting and processing federal individual tax year 2024 returns.

The IRS expects more than 140 million individual tax returns for tax year 2024 to be filed ahead of the April 15 federal deadline. More than half of all tax returns are expected to be filed this year with the help of a tax professional, and the IRS urges people to use a trusted tax pro to avoid potential scams and schemes.

Taxpayers can visit IRS.gov to get answers to tax questions.

 

Council rolls out employer survey

PASCO COUNTY – The Pasco Economic Development Council has released its Regional Workforce Survey for Pasco & Hernando Counties at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2025BusinessSurvey.

The survey is designed to capture priorities for employers in Pasco and Hernando counties. 

Results will be published on the CareerSource Pasco Hernando website after analysis and will also be used in the Pasco Economic Development Council’s Annual Existing Industry Report.

 

North Tampa Bay Chamber happenings

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will take part in grand openings for member businesses as well as a Leading Ladies Network event in the coming week. 

  • Members celebrate the grand opening of Fifth Third Bank’s new Sunlake Banking Center from 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 6 at 18710 State Road 54, Lutz. Registration for the event ended Jan. 30.
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of ASAP Architectural Signage & Printing from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 6 at 6812 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes.
  • Peggy D’Alessandro talks about “Cybersecurity: How to keep your business safe” during the Leading Ladies Network event from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Feb. 7 at USF Federal Credit Union, 20610 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa. Register in advance.

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

 

Greater Pasco Chamber happenings

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber will take part in a medical roundtable and other networking events in the coming days.  

  • Antonio Cardona, of TemperaturePro Pasco, talks about the  importance of indoor air quality during the Greater Pasco Medical Roundtable from 8 to 9 a.m. Feb. 6 at Holiday Inn Express, 2125 Corporate Center Drive, Trinity. Register in advance. 
  • Members exchange company literature during the Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 13 at 4 & Co. Coworking Spaces, 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. Registration is free for members and $10 for others. Food costs $12. Register in advance. 
  • Dan Mitchell, director of the Pasco EDC SmartStart Program, will serve as the guest speaker of the Monthly Membership Breakfast from 8:45 to 10 a.m. Feb. 14 at Heritage Springs Country Club, 11345 Robert Trent Jones Pkwy., Trinity. Registration costs $25 for members and $30 for others. Register in advance. 

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

 

Chalk Talk (02/05/25): Sunlake student earns Outstanding Senior Award

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Sunlake student earns Outstanding Senior Award

LAND O’ LAKES – Samuel Wu, who attends Sunlake High School, received the Pasco County Schools Outstanding Senior Award for 2025. 

He was selected from several seniors throughout the district who had sought that recognition.

Wu ranks first in his class with an almost perfect SAT score of 15.80 and has a 4.71 grade point average. 

When he graduates from Sunlake, he will have earned concurrently an associate degree from Pasco-Hernando State College, said Angel Hernandez, who recognized Wu for his accomplishments.

Hernandez is program coordinator for career and technical education at Pasco County Schools.

Wu is also a National Merit Scholar semifinalist, a Carson Scholar and an AP Scholar with Distinction. Also, he is a member of Sunlake’s Student Council and of the F.D.L.E.

He received a $1,000 scholarship from the Pasco Education Foundation Scholarship Program.

Wu said Jan. 14 he wanted to thank everyone supporting him, including his parents, and also “a big thank you to everyone at Sunlake High School especially my wonderful teachers, the staff and my classmates. 

 

Fisher recognized for literary education

LAND O’ LAKES – Lisa Fisher was recognized as the Pasco Literacy Teacher of the Year for the 2024-25 school year. 

She was also recently honored as the Florida State Literacy Association’s Teacher of the Year. 

“This is such an honor,” Fisher told the school board Jan. 14. “This is my 20th-and-a-half year in Pasco County, 17 of which I served at the secondary level. And so coming down to elementary I can’t accept this without saying what an amazing administrative staff I get to work side by side with.”

She added she was so grateful for the opportunity to serve as a literacy teacher at the elementary level.

 

Wolin earns Administrator of the Year

LAND O’ LAKES – Vicki Wolin was recognized as Florida Headstart Administrator of the Year.

She has over 35 years of experience in early care and education. Wolin’s roles have included administrative positions, such as assistant principal and even principal.

“One person does not hold the responsibility for all that work,” Wolin said. 

She added the team of people in her department had contributed to that success.

“This is for Pasco County Schools and not just for me,” Wolin said.

 

CareerSource Pasco Hernando enhances education 

LAND O’ LAKES – Dr. Lori Romano recognized Jerome Salantino, CEO and president of CareerSource Pasco Hernando, for what the organization had done to expand student experiences across the district to help prepare them for meaningful careers. 

Romano serves as the director of career, technical, and adult education with Pasco County Schools. 

Last year, the CareerSource Pasco Hernando board provided Pasco County Schools with $47,000 to prepare its students for meaningful careers by incorporating a variety of career exploration programs and activities to help them identify potential career paths, Romano said. 

“I’d like to say that I’ve been in workforce development for over 30 years,” Salantino said. “It’s been 15 years of my current role as executive for the workforce board and I’ve never seen the desire to partner, the ability to bring things to the table as a true partner does, and the common goal of helping to meet the workforce needs of the community.”

Salantino added he looked forward to many more years of working together with her and her team.

 

LEGOLAND Florida Resort has park, hotel upgrades in store

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One of the most popular attractions at LEGOLAND Florida Resort is the Water Park, which is reopening in February with some upgrades. Photo courtesy of LEGOLAND Florida Resort

WINTER HAVEN – LEGOLAND Florida Resort is rolling out new attractions and revamped hotel rooms in 2025.

In 2024, LEGOLAND Florida unveiled a new attraction, LEGO Ferrari Build & Race. Guests can hop into the driver’s seat of a life-size LEGO Ferrari 296 GTS model, made up of 424,000 LEGO elements. 

Families are also inspired to create their own LEGO Ferrari race car in the Build Zone. At several large building stations, children and adults can turn their ideas into reality with all the LEGO bricks possible. 

Ultimately, visitors can head to the Test Zone to race their car against three extreme test tracks, each with different obstacles plus participate in a virtual race by scanning the model they created. For the littlest builders, there’s a DUPLO section specially designed for tiny hands to engage with LEGO fun at their own pace.

LEGOLAND Water Park is making a comeback, bringing families waves of fun with fresh renovations in mid-February. The Joker Soaker and Twin Chasers are getting a vibrant new color scheme as part of its refurbishment. Experience the return of 14 epic slides and the chance to craft your own LEGO raft to float down the lazy river.

SEA LIFE Florida opens this spring at LEGOLAND Florida Resort. This immersive aquarium invites guests to explore vibrant exhibits featuring blacktip reef sharks, moon jelly fish and clownfish.

Highlights include the interactive rock pool, a sunken pirate treasure ship and the main ocean exhibit, a “Theme Park Under the Sea” complete with a coral castle and a sea-inspired Ferris wheel. 

Perfect for families and marine life enthusiasts, SEA LIFE Florida blends education with fun to inspire love for the ocean. Tickets will be launching soon.

 

LEGOLAND Florida Resort offers fun themed hotel rooms for adults and children. Photo courtesy of LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Hotel upgrades

The LEGOLAND Hotel is undergoing a creative refresh, with new room concepts debuting in the spring. 

This revamp will include 20 new themed rooms, designed to immerse families in the LEGO fun. 

Among the refreshed offerings, there will be:

  • Six DUPLO Rooms – Featuring an all-new concept that brings the colorful and creative world of DUPLO to life, designed especially for younger builders.
  • Six LEGO Friends Rooms – Updated with today’s LEGO Friends characters and stories, guests can step into the world of Heartlake City and have the ultimate sleepover inside a LEGO Friends Creative Clubhouse.
  • Eight LEGO NINJAGO Rooms – Newly themed rooms that take families into the action-packed world of NINJAGO, complete with bold designs inspired by Lloyd and his ninja friends.

 

Seasonal Events

All activities below are covered with general park admission.

  • LEGO NINJAGO Weekends (select dates in February) – Families can enjoy high-energy shows, interactive activities and meet LEGO® NINJAGO heroes. Master elemental powers on the Path of the Dragon, join the Thunderfang Scavenger Hunt and fuel up with ninja-inspired treats.
  • World Play Day (June 11) – LEGOLAND Florida Resort is creating a summer surprise. Follow the family theme park on social media for updates and get ready to play.
  • Red, White & BOOM! (July 4) – The summer heats up at LEGOLAND Florida Resort with a star-spangled 4th of July celebration: Red, White & BOOM! Throughout the day, kids of all ages can participate in all-American family picnic games and building activities. At night, the evening fireworks show combines patriotic music with dazzling pyrotechnics.
  • Brick-or-Treat (select dates in September and October) – 

Grab your costumes and get ready to “boo-gie” down! Brick-or-Treat is back and will bewitch LEGOLAND Florida Resort with sweet treats, spellbinding shows, exclusive LEGO characters, and more! LEGOLAND Florida will transform into the ultimate family-friendly Halloween celebration on select dates throughout September and October.

  • Holidays (select dates in November-December) – Jingle all the way to LEGOLAND Florida Resort this holiday season. Live entertainment, twinkling lights and festive cheer await! Families can meet the jolly LEGO Santa, enjoy a series of seasonal activities and embark on bricktastic holiday adventures throughout the resort. Don’t miss the resort’s three-story-tall LEGO Christmas tree – the perfect backdrop for capturing unforgettable family photos.

 

Want to go?

LEGOLAND Florida Resort is offering a $9.99 Bronze Pass Monthly. Enjoy unlimited visits, monthly perks and first-to-sea access to 2025’s newest attractions with a LEGOLAND Florida Annual Bronze Pass. Start the adventure today with a $30 down payment. Guests can also buy single-day tickets or annual passes with or without a hotel stay. 

Health & Wellness (02/05/25): Wellness Stations allow for health checks

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Brenden Haas, a South University physician assistant student, gets a screening at the Wellness Station in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North’s garden atrium. The Wellness Station there is used by visitors, team members, medical staff and others for quick health self-checks including blood pressure. Free Wellness Stations like this one are also located in local Publix super markets.

Wellness Stations allow for quick check on health

February is Heart Month, which raises awareness about cardiovascular disease prevention. Heart disease can take on many forms and often has subtle symptoms – chest pressure or discomfort, sluggishness and fatigue. 

It’s important not to ignore these subtle signs and symptoms. If you are experiencing pressure, heaviness or pain in the chest, arm or below the breastbone  or in combination with sweating, nausea, extreme shortness of breath or irregular heartbeats, you may be having a heart attack. Call 911 immediately.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz recommends that you regularly monitor your blood pressure. With support from your health care team, you can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke. You can check your blood pressure at the doctor’s office, other medical locations, at home with a blood pressure monitoring device or for free at one of the BayCare Wellness Stations located in Publix Super Markets in Hillsborough County. 

The Wellness Stations conveniently provide you with free, interactive screenings giving you personal health statistics, including blood pressure, pulse, body weight and body mass index.

Learn more about St. Joseph’s Hospital-North’s heart services at StJosephsNorthHeart.org

 

Hospital offers newborn support groups

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, 4211 Van Dyke Road, offers free in-person support groups and classes during February about breastfeeding and newborn care. 

The events are open to all no matter which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your babies. All events are held in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North classrooms.

  • Breastfeeding Support Group – For breastfeeding mothers and their babies. The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. Offered Thursdays, Feb. 13 and 27, 9 to 11 a.m.
  • Understanding Breastfeeding – 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. Offered Thursday, Feb. 27, 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Understanding Your Newborn: Provides information to the expectant mother and one support person about many aspects of safe infant care, including feeding, diapering, bathing, signs of illness and cues and communication. Offered Thursday, Feb. 13, 1 to 5 p.m.

The events are free but St. Joseph’s Hospital-North asks you to register at BayCareEvents.org and choose “St. Joseph’s Hospital-North” in the “Facility/Location” filter. Or, you can also register by phone by calling 855-314-8352 and pressing the number “2” at the prompt.

 

Report: Florida could do more to prevent tobacco use

TAMPA – Florida continues to lag behind the rest of the country in policy efforts to prevent and reduce tobacco use, according to the American Lung Association’s “State of Tobacco Control” report.

The state received three failing grades, out of five, in this year’s report, including: 

  • Funding for State Tobacco Prevention Programs.
  • Level of State Tobacco Taxes.
  • Ending the Sale of All Flavored Tobacco Products.

The state earned a D in Coverage and Access to Services to Quit Tobacco and a C in Strength of Smokefree Workplace Laws.

Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Florida and across the country, claiming the lives of 32,300 state residents each year. 10.5% of adults in Florida currently use cigarettes, and 17% of adults use tobacco products, which includes e-cigarettes. Additionally, 14.8% of high school students use tobacco products.