The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

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

By

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

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

Adopt A Pet (12/11/24): Samantha loves to snuggle

By

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

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

Old Lutz School continues Christmas tradition

By

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On the web: facebook.com/oldlutzschool

 

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

By

Photo courtesy of Andy’s Frozen Custard

Andy’s Frozen Custard opening in Lutz

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

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

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

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

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

 

Garyline celebrates factory opening

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

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

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

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

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

 

Greater Pasco Chamber happenings

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

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

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

 

Andrew Mcintosh

McIntosh named general counsel of USL

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

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

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

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

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

By

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

AdventHealth uses AI tech for early colon cancer detection

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

AdventHealth to partner with the Straz Center for the Performing Arts

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

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

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

 

Hospital supports Zephyrhills tradition

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

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

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

 

Health organizations donate Thanksgiving meals

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

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

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

 

 

Health & Welllness (12/11/24): AI aids in early colon cancer detection

By

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

AdventHealth uses AI tech for early colon cancer detection

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

AdventHealth to partner with the Straz Center for the Performing Arts

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

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

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

 

Hospital supports Zephyrhills tradition

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

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

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

 

Health organizations donate Thanksgiving meals

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

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

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

 

 

MOSI adds a drone zone to offerings 

By

The Museum of Science & Industry has perfected a space where children can not only operate drones but also learn how they are impacting our lives. Photo courtesy of MOSI

TAMPA – The Museum of Science & Industry allows guests to take control of real drones – completing challenges, racing each other, and getting up-close with the technology that’s transforming our world.

Regulations and training requirements are increasing for drone operators across the U.S., but in MOSI’s dedicated indoor drone space, trying out a drone is both approved and encouraged. 

Flight Club Drone Zone, presented by Suncoast Credit Union, will be included with admission for guests of all ages, with guidance from a MOSI educator always close by.

“We take science and technology that may be new, confusing or overwhelming and we make it real for you,” CEO John Graydon Smith said. “We get you hands-on with it. And we show you how it fits into your future – looking at how it may change our community and how you can be prepared for the new careers the technology is creating.”

 

The Museum of Science & Industry has perfected a space where children can not only operate drones but also learn how they are impacting our lives. Photo courtesy of MOSI

Learn how drones impact lives

In addition to controlling drones that are about the size of a paper plate, guests will see drones on display in a range of sizes, designed for a range of jobs. 

Videos showcase the careers that are emerging from this growing technology and show drones in action around the world.

The number of drone-related job postings more than doubled between 2021 and 2023, according to drone training company DARTdrones.

“Drones are changing the way we live our lives, from enhancing agricultural efficiency to enabling innovative search and rescue operations. They’re not just streamlining deliveries or entertaining us with spectacular aerial displays – drones are paving the way for new learning and career paths,” said Kevin Johnson, president and CEO of Suncoast Credit Union. “We’re excited to partner with MOSI to make drones more accessible to the Tampa Bay community, as they continue to create new opportunities and experiences that we can all benefit from and enjoy.”

As part of Suncoast Credit Union’s partnership with MOSI, Suncoast members can buy one MOSI ticket with their Suncoast debit or credit card and get a second ticket free.

 

Museum creates attraction with scientific method

MOSI’s team used one of their favorite concepts, the scientific method, to develop Flight Club Drone Zone. 

Starting in 2023 with the hypothesis that drone flying would be a great guest experience, they tested a small drone flying area in their IdeaZone makerspace.

“The area was a big hit, but we ran into some snags. Literally,” Smith said. Drones got caught in the netting used to enclose the drone space. The first fragile drones they tried couldn’t hold up to constant use. And long lines formed, since the area only had room for one guest at a time.

After analyzing their experiment, the MOSI team tested different types of netting and drones and rearranged a section of the museum to more than triple the area available for flying. 

The conclusion is a zone complete with mesh walls that won’t snag, durable drones and enough room for three guests to take to the skies at once, allowing for skills challenges and head-to-head races.

Drones have also been added to several MOSI programs and Summer Science Camps. The additional drone programs were designed with input from experts and licensed drone pilots.

Learn more about Flight Club Drone Zone or get tickets at mosi.org.

 

Football teams’ playoff runs end in third round

By

Armwood, Tampa Bay Technical and Wiregrass Ranch football teams were all stopped in the third round of the state playoffs.
Below is a breakdown of how each team performed Nov. 29.

 

6A Playoffs
• No. 1 Armwood lost to No. 2 Osceola, 17-7, in the third round. Armwood previously defeated No. 4 Plant, 21-17, in the second round and No. 8 Melbourne, 49-0, in the first round.
• No. 3 Wiregrass Ranch lost to No. 1 West Boca Raton, 17-0, in the third round. Wiregrass Ranch previously defeated No. 7 Largo, 38-7, in the second round and No. 6 Royal Palm Beach, 42-7, in the first round.

 

5A Playoffs
• No. 3 Tampa Bay Technical lost to No. 1 Lakeland, 24-21, in the third round. Tampa Bay Technical previously defeated No. 2 Edgewater, 28-17, in the second round and defeated No. 6 Sebring, 35-14, in the first round.

 

Second round qualifiers
• 7A Playoffs: No. 2 Plant City lost to No. 3 West Orange, 26-25, after defeating No. 7 Riverview, 47-28, in the first round.
• 7A Playoffs: No. 4 Newsome lost to No. 1 Venice, 56-17, after defeating No. 5 Sumner, 34-27, in the first round.
• 6A Playoffs: No. 3 Durant lost to No. 2 Osceola, 35-6, after defeating No. 6 South Lake, 35-17, in the first round.
• 6A Playoffs: No. 4 Plant lost to No. 1 Armwood, 21-17, after defeating No. 5 Barlow, 45-7, in the first round.
• 6A Playoffs: No. 4 Mitchell lost to No. 1 West Boca Raton, 38-7, after defeating No. 5 Parrish Community, 29-7, in the first round.
• 5A Playoffs: No. 5 Gaither lost to No. 1 Lakeland, 41-13, after defeating No. 4 Springstead, 42-0, in the first round.
• 4A Playoffs: No. 4 Zephyrhills lost to No. 1 Jones, 41-18, after defeating No. 5 Rockledge, 35-15, in the first round.
• 3A Playoffs: No. 1 Jefferson lost to No. 5 Boca Ciega, 42-0, after defeating No. 8 Hudson, 21-16, in the first round.

 

First round qualifiers
• 7A Playoffs: No. 5 Sumner lost to No. 4 Newsome, 34-27, in the first round.
• 7A Playoffs: No. 7 Riverview lost to No. 2 Plant City, 47-28, in the first round.
• 6A Playoffs: No. 8 Steinbrenner lost to No. 1 West Boca Raton, 42-7, in the first round.
• 5A Playoffs: No. 8 Spoto lost to No. 1 Lakeland, 51-6, in the first round.
• 5A Playoffs: No. 7 East Bay lost to No. 2 Edgewater, 35-7, in the first round.
• 4A Playoffs: No. 7 River Ridge lost to No. 2 Naples, 44-0, in the first round.
• 3A Playoffs: No. 4 Chamberlain lost to No. 5 Boca Ciega, 52-13, in the first round.
• 3A Playoffs: No. 8 Hudson lost to No. 1 Jefferson, 21-16, in the first round.