The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pinellas TacoFest 2025 features battle of the bites

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Shrimp with tomato and peppers taco. Debbie Wolfe Photography

PINELLAS PARK – The Pinellas Taco Fest is back for its fourth year, bigger and tastier than ever. 

Get ready to witness a fierce culinary competition, indulge in endless tacos and celebrate your love for all things taco-rific from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Jan. 25 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Jan. 26 at England Brothers Park, 5010 81 St. Ave. N.

“You don’t want to miss this flavorful fiesta,” event organizer Suzanne King said. “Bring your appetite, your thirst for a culinary adventure and your dancing shoes as we celebrate Tampa Bay’s taco-tastic love.”

Here’s what to expect at this year’s festival:

  • Taco Triumphs: Last year, Tampa Bay devoured a staggering 25,000 tacos. Festival organizers hope to surpass that number in 2025.
  • Battle of the Best: Cheer on more than 20 talented local chefs as they compete for the prestigious title of “Best Taco in Tampa Bay 2025.” Categories include chicken, beef, pork, seafood and a wildcard “other” section for the most inventive creations.
  • Judging Panel: Local food bloggers and community influencers will taste-test and award scores based on appearance, flavor and creativity, culminating in accolades for Most Creative Taco and Most Craveable Taco.
  • Taco Eating Showdown: Think you can conquer a mountain of tortillas? Enter the Sunday-Funday Taco Eating Challenge and showcase your skills. (Entry fees apply.)
  • Support a Good Cause: Enjoy tacos and cold drinks while making a difference. Proceeds will benefit Get Rescued Inc., helping furry friends in need across Florida.
  • Live Music: Onobi Guitars, The 727 Band, Greg Woodruff Duo and LongNeck Band perform.

Both admission and parking are free. 

 

Event Schedule

Jan. 25, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

11 a.m. to 1p.m.: Taco Chef Competition

1:30 to 4p.m.: Onabi Guitars

4:30 to 7p.m.: The 727 Band

 

Jan. 26. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.: The Greg Woodruff Duo

2 p.m.: Taco Eating Competition

2:30 to 5 p.m.: LongNeck Band

 

Follow Pinellas TacoFest on Facebook (@pinellastacofest) for event updates. 

News Briefs (01/15/25): Women’s Club spreads Christmas cheer

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Fred and Karen Sue Molis, Sylvia Owens, Pat Evans, Lois Cohen and Terry Dharwadkar stand in front of Phyllis Hoedt’s nutcracker collection. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen

 

Women’s Club spreads Christmas cheer

GFWC Lutz-Land O’lakes Women’s Club volunteered at the annual Old Lutz School Christmas festivities. Members decorated a club-sponsored Christmas tree, decorated a room with Phyllis Hoedt’s extensive nutcracker collection and served hot chocolate and cookies to visitors from  the community and surrounding areas that attended. 

 

Humana thanked veterans for their service over the holidays. Photo courtesy of Liberty Manor for Veterans

Humana supports Veterans at Liberty Manor

TAMPA – Humana of Tampa Bay recently visited Liberty Manor for Veterans, showering residents with gifts for the holiday season.  

Sherron Riles, supervisor care management support, organized the event with Humana. 

Humana is committed to helping people live healthy and happy. Its approach is offering personalized care from people who care.

Liberty Manor for Veterans promotes the developmental and social needs of disabled and honorably discharged veterans who have fallen victim to homelessness. 

Anyone interested in supporting this work may contact Connie Lindsay at 813-900-9422 or visit libertymanor.org.

 

Zephyrhills Police investigate shooting

ZEPHYRHILLS – The Zephyrhills Police Department responded to a shooting at 10:55 a.m. Dec. 27 at the In And Out at 5058 Gall Blvd.

Police said a firearm was discharged resulting in an individual sustaining non-life-threatening injuries. The injured person was not affiliated with the business.

Police described the shooting as an isolated incident and no threat to the public. They said the business was not a target in the incident. 

Police encourage the public to call 813-780-0050, Option 1, with any information regarding the incident. 

 

Hillsborough extends states of emergency 

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – Hillsborough County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an executive order extending a state of local emergency for Hurricane Milton through Jan. 5 and Hurricane Helene through Jan. 6. 

Original orders went into effect Oct. 6 for Milton and Sept. 23 for Helene. 

A state of local emergency can be in effect for only seven days, unless rescinded or extended. 

The emergency declaration gives the county administrator and emergency managers the ability to quickly take certain actions to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the community. 

It also provides a path for federal reimbursement of certain expenses. 

 

North Tampa Bay Chamber happenings

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will offers Coffee Social and Lunch & Learn programs in the coming days. 

  • Members meet up for the Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Jan. 15 at the Wiregrass Mall location, 28329 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. The event is free for members and others.
  • GTE Financial will present “Small Business Banking & Loans” at the next Lunch & Learn program from 11:30 a.m. to  1 p.m. Jan. 16 at Wiregrass Mall Signature Workspace Building, The Boardroom Event Space, 28210 Paseo Ave. #190, Wesley Chapel. Register in advance. Registration costs $15. 

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

 

Greater Pasco Chamber happenings

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will exchange brochures and celebrate the grand opening of a member in the next several days. 

  • Members trade information during the Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 9 at New Beginnings 18935 Michigan Lane Spring Hill. Register in advance. Members pay $12. Others pay $10 registration fee and $12 food cust. 
  • The chamber celebrates the grand opening of member Braybook Assisted Living Facility from 3 to 5 p.m. Jan. 17 at 7532 State Road 52, Hudson. 

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

Adopt A Pet (12/25/24): Pascal loves head scratches

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If you’re looking for a cat with personality and charm, look no further than Pascal! This 4-year-old tuxedo cat is the epitome of friendly and affectionate. With his striking black-and-white coat and expressive eyes, Pascal is a true showstopper – but it’s his big, loving personality that will win you over every time. Pascal is all about the love! He absolutely adores rubbing his cheeks on you, showing just how much he loves attention. Whether you’re petting him, talking to him or simply sitting near him, Pascal will be right there, purring and ready to give you a head nudge or gentle rub. His love for head scratches is unmatched – once you start, you’ll have a hard time stopping as he leans in for more! Pascal is the kind of cat who thrives on human companionship, and he’ll quickly become a beloved member of your family. He’s ready to share all his love and big personality with a family that’s ready for a feline friend who knows how to make an entrance. Come see him at Pasco County Animal Services today!

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

Adopt A Pet (12/25/24): Horace needs lots of belly rubs

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Looking for a dog who’ll keep up with your active lifestyle and fill your home with joy? Meet Horace, a 2-year-old ball of energy who’s always ready for an adventure! With his unique half-spotted face, Horace is not only a head-turner but also a heart-stealer. Horace is a high-energy pup who loves to run, play and explore. He’s especially fond of playing with other dogs, making him a great companion for families with furry friends already in the home. Whether it’s fetch, tug-of-war or just running around the yard, Horace is up for any game that keeps him moving and having fun! When he’s not playing, Horace is all about belly rubs! His affectionate nature makes him the perfect cuddle buddy after a fun-filled day. His sweet and playful personality is sure to bring endless smiles to your home. If you think Horace is the one for you, see him at Pasco County Animal Services today! 

 

If you would like to adopt Horace, 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.

YMCA helps people find their spark

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TAMPA – Casey Frachiseur has been a North Brandon Family YMCA member for almost three years. She lost 40 pounds and six pant sizes since this July.

“I started at a size 24 and am down to an 18,” Frachiseur said. “The YMCA has changed my life by helping me get back on track and healthy. I don’t feel judged and every member and staff is always so helpful.”

With Jan. 1 around the corner, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA invites the community to find their spark into the New Year. 

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is offering a limited-time $0 join fee for new members along with a free InBody Scan when they join. The offer is for new members through Jan. 15.                       

The InBody test is a research-backed analysis that provides a breakdown of body composition, measuring and tracking progress in critical areas such as muscle mass, body fat percentage and metabolic rate.

Jan. 1 also marks the start of summer camp registration for YMCA members. Spots fill up quickly. 

The Tampa Y offers many options to help everyone attain their health and wellness goals along with support through this fitness journey. Members have the option of using wellness floors with a variety of modern equipment for different workouts.

“I am so grateful to the YMCA, without them I would probably still be sitting at home, or in bed not caring about my health,” Frachiseur said. “Having staff that care, I not only don’t want to disappoint myself, but I don’t want to disappoint them. The YMCA gives me purpose, and I am forever grateful.”

 

Injured SWAT officer receives mortgage-free home

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Jonathan Rodriguez suffered a spinal cord injury after he was hit by a drunk driver. Photo courtesy of Tunnel to Towers Foundation

LAND O’ LAKES – Days before Christmas, the Tunnel to Towers Foundation welcomed home the newest residents of the Let Us Do Good Village, Cleveland Police SWAT Officer Jonathan Rodriguez and his family.

The home dedication is part of the Tunnel to Towers’ Season of Hope, which celebrates the holiday season by delivering over 40 mortgage-free homes and mortgage payoffs to families of fallen first responders, Gold Star families, and catastrophically injured veterans and first responders nationwide.

Rodriguez and his team were responding to a call on June 5, 2020, when a drunk driver struck their vehicle. Rodriguez sustained a spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed. 

Rodriguez is moving to the Let Us Do Good Village from Cleveland, with his wife, Cleveland Police Officer Zuleika Rodriguez, and their children. Their new mortgage-free smart home will give him the necessary accessibility tools to live more independently.  

“This new mortgage-free smart home marks a fresh start and new beginning for the Rodriguez family,” said Frank Siller, chairman and CEO of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. “This home is not just a physical structure, but a symbol of our gratitude and admiration for Jonathan’s dedication and service.”

A Tunnel to Towers Smart Home features zero thresholds, motorized doors and keyless entry for easier access. The homes’ lights, temperature, security, and sound system can be controlled remotely via a smartphone app or touch screens throughout the house. Wide doors, hallways and bathrooms are designed for easy navigation.

Visit T2T.org to support the nonprofit’s mission to build smart homes for injured first responders and veterans.

 

Graphic design student wins Presidential Holiday Card Contest

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College President Jesse Pisors presents Athena Colvin with a $500 check. Photo courtesy of PHSC

 

The winning holiday card submission. Photo courtesy of PHSC

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco Hernando State College has crowned recent graduate Athena Colvin as the winner of the Presidential Holiday Card Contest.

Colvin’s work stood out among more than 40 submissions across all campuses.

“Athena did wonderfully to encapsulate the PHSC brand,” PHSC President Jesse Pisors said. “Her design was savvy towards what we needed, it was on brand, 1000% PHSC.”

Colvin was a graphic design and multimedia tech program student. Colvin’s work was inspired by her portfolio class, where she focused on creating graphics around the client’s brand and imagining what they want. 

“I wanted this submission to be the final piece of my portfolio project, so I focused on the branding and colors,” Colvin said. “I feel like my work came out to be simple, but effectively simple. I didn’t have to follow strict guidelines, so I was able to put my own artistic twist on the submission while staying within PHSC’s branding.”

Winning this contest provided more than just the $500 prize for Colvin.

“I like to boost myself up and give my self-confidence that I’d be the winner, but actually winning has made me feel like all my hard work is being recognized,” she said. “It’s a major confidence boost.”

PHSC plans to host more contests for students in the future that connect art with the corporate world.

 

 

Pasco County still under mosquito-borne illness alert

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PASCO COUNTY – The Pasco County Mosquito Control District is urging residents not to let their guard down when it comes to mosquito-borne diseases. 

Despite recent cold temperatures, the threat of diseases such as Eastern Equine Encephalitis , dengue fever, and West Nile virus remains very real.

This year has seen some of the most intense mosquito activity in the region due to drought conditions in early 2024 and impacts from a tropical storm and two major hurricanes, with alarming levels of disease transmission, according to the district. 

Mosquito-borne diseases continue to affect both human and animal populations, with reports confirming several cases of concern throughout the year:

  • EEE was detected in emus and sentinel chickens in the county, signaling the presence of the virus in the mosquito population.
  • A local outbreak of dengue virus was reported in the Moon Lake area, affecting several residents and raising concerns about further spread.
  • West Nile virus was detected in two humans, an alpaca, and mosquitoes across inland areas of Pasco County, after the unprecedented riverine flooding from Hurricane Milton.

“In spite of the colder temperatures, mosquitoes are still active, and the risk of mosquito-borne diseases remains high,” said Adriane Rogers, executive director of the Pasco County Mosquito Control District. “Our team at PCMCD has been working tirelessly to reduce the potential for disease spread by employing an array of strategies as part of our integrated mosquito management approach. This includes heightened surveillance, targeted ground and aerial spraying and increased public education efforts. However, we need residents to remain vigilant as well. Taking steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites and emptying water-holding containers around their properties are essential.”

The Pasco County Mosquito Control District has been monitoring mosquito populations, applying larvicides to prevent immature mosquitoes from hatching off, and conducting aerial and ground spraying in targeted areas where mosquito activity has been most intense. 

In addition to these efforts, the Pasco County Mosquito Control District continues to collaborate with local health authorities to track disease trends and adjust strategies as needed.

Residents are encouraged to take preventive measures to avoid mosquito bites, including:

  • Using insect repellent that contains DEET or Picaridin.
  • Wearing long sleeves and pants when spending time outdoors, especially at dawn and dusk when most mosquito species are most active. However, dengue mosquito vectors are also active during the day.
  • Eliminating standing water around homes, as it serves as breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
  • Installing or repairing window and door screens to keep mosquitoes out of homes.

“While the recent cold weather may make some think mosquitoes are no longer a threat, that is simply not the case,” Rogers said. “We ask all Pasco County residents to continue protecting themselves and their families. Our team is doing everything we can, but we need everyone to remain proactive in preventing mosquito bites as well.”

Residents are encouraged to visit the Pasco County Mosquito Control District’s website at pascomosquito.org or call 727-376-4568 for more information on mosquito control efforts, disease prevention or to report mosquito-related concerns.

 

News Briefs (12/20/24): ​​Pasco County commissioners appoint leaders

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​​Pasco County commissioners appoints leaders

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Pasco Board of County Commissioners reorganized at its Dec. 10 meeting. 

The board elected Kathryn Starkey as chair, Jack Mariano as vice chair and Seth Weightman as second vice chair.

“It’s a privilege to serve as the chair of this commission,” Starkey said. “Pasco County has made remarkable strides in becoming a great place to live, work and play, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve achieved.  I look forward to building on that success to continue making Pasco County an even better place for all.”

The board consists of the following members: Ron Oakley (District 1), Seth Weightman (District 2), Kathryn Starkey (District 3), Lisa Yeager (District 4) and Jack Mariano (District 5).

Pasco County Commission meetings are usually held every other Tuesday, alternating between the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey and the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City.

 

SVB Tennis Foundation thanks Zephyrhills

ZEPHYRHILLS – Nick Walton, executive director for the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Foundation, thanked the City of Zephyrhills for its year-round support. 

Walton spoke Dec. 9 during the Zephyrhills City Council meeting. He presented the city with a plaque with photos of the program, which promotes character-building, mentoring and physical activity through tennis.

“We’re finishing up now our second program at Woodland Elementary,” he said. “That’s first and second-graders, which is a new initiative for us.”

During the first quarter, the foundation worked with third, fourth and fifth-graders at Woodland Elementary as well as students at R.B. Stewart Middle. They’ll also be in West Zephyrhills Elementary during the third and fourth quarters. 

 

Pasco Animal Services waives fees for Christmas

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Animal Services is waiving adoption fees for all available dogs and cats from December 14 to 21.

The agency invites the community to take a photo with Santa and their newly adopted pets at the “Home for the Pawlidays” kick off Dec. 14.

The Home for the Pawlidays campaign spans from noon to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday and noon to 6:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 14 to 21 at Building A (Adoption Center), 19640 Dogpatch Lane.

“We’re celebrating the holidays with a visit from Santa and an entire week of free adoptions to our community,” PCAS Director Mike Shumate said.  “We’re most excited about pets getting loving homes for the holidays.”