The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Local Wildlife (11/13/24): Catbird loves to sing

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David Maynard captured this Gray Catbird in his backyard in San Antonio. The bird likes to hide in the thickets along the fenceline but sometimes Maynard can hear him mew in the bushes. 

David Maynard captured this Gray Catbird in his backyard in San Antonio. The bird likes to hide in the thickets along the fenceline but sometimes Maynard can hear him mew in the bushes.

Adopt A Pet (11/13/24): Vera appreciates a soothing environment

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Vera is a charming little lady who takes her time to warm up to new environments, but once she feels at home, she’s a total sweetheart. She loves to snuggle with her stuffed animals, turning them into her cozy companions. As holiday season approaches, Vera dreams of finding a loving home where she can relax and blossom. She thrives in a calm environment where she can slowly explore and feel secure. With a bit of patience and understanding, you’ll discover her playful side and enjoy heartwarming moments together. If you’re looking for a gentle companion who appreciates the quieter joys of life, Vera is the perfect match. She’s ready to fill your home with love and warmth – just in time for the holidays! If you think Vera is the one for you, see her at Pasco County Animal Services today.

If you would like to adopt Vera, 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 (11/13/24): Doppi is ready for a new adventure

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Doppi is a delightful 2-year-old pup who is ready to find his forever home! With his sunny disposition and playful energy, he’s sure to bring joy and laughter to your life. Whether it’s fetching a ball outside or cuddling up on the couch, Doppi loves to be by your side. This sweet boy is in need of a new home where he can thrive and share his love. He’s great with people and gets along well with other dogs, making him the perfect addition to any family. Doppi is eager to learn and would thrive with some training and regular exercise. He’s ready to be your adventure buddy! If you’re looking for a loyal companion who will fill your days with fun and affection, Doppi is the one for you! Don’t miss out on the chance to make this lovable pup a part of your family and see him at Pasco County Animal Services today.

If you would like to adopt Doppi, 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.

Economic development veteran joins commercial real estate firm

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NEW PORT RICHEY – Commercial Asset Partners Realty has appointed economic development and electric utility veteran Danielle Ruiz as vice president.

Ruiz, who most recently served as director of economic development for Duke Energy Corporation, has over 20 years of economic development experience. 

Ruiz supported the recruitment and expansion of a number of companies to the 34-county Florida service territory during her nearly 11 years at Duke Energy. 

She also has held director and manager positions at the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation – now known as the Tampa Bay EDC – ConMed Corporation, Pinellas County Economic Development and the State of Florida Agency for Workforce Innovation, now known as CareerSource Florida.

“Part of what Danielle brings to the table for our team is her executive-level experience and leadership in various public, private companies and economic development organizations throughout the state,” said Heidi Tuttle-Beisner, broker-owner at CAP Realty. “Her priorities align with mine, in that we want to see our communities grow and redevelop, and to really make a difference that goes beyond simply closing transactions.”

Ruiz will focus on commercial real estate brokerage services in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. The company says Ruiz’s relationships in other counties may help expand its service footprint. 

While at Duke Energy Corporation, Ruiz was involved in many deals impacting the greater Tampa Bay area:  

  • MiTek, an international building supply company, announcing plans in 2024 to open a new, $77.6 million, 480,000-square-foot manufacturing plant and warehouse in Zephyrhills; 
  • Bauducco Foods, a Brazilian multinational company specializing in baked food products, purchasing 72 acres in Zephyrhills, in 2023 for a $200 million facility expected to create 600 new jobs; 
  • Attracting Nucor, North America’s largest steelmaker, to Polk County for its Frostproof steel mill, creating 250 jobs; and 
  • Relocation of San Diego-based life sciences defense contractor Amaratek to Dunedin in 2023, creating dozens of high-paying local jobs.

“I was seeking an opportunity to work with a company that shares my commitment of making an impact on the local economy while also understanding the community’s broader vision and collectively matching this with my clients’ needs,” Ruiz said. 

Ruiz belongs to several organizations and has served in many leadership roles during her career. She has served on the boards of the Pasco Economic Development Council, the St. Petersburg Area Economic Development Corporation and Hernando Progress. She is also a founding advisory board member of IDEA Schools Tampa Bay.

“Danielle has been involved in real estate transactions in the greater Tampa Bay area and other parts of Florida for many years,” said Tuttle-Beisner. “In her new role with our firm, she’ll simply be looking at deals from a different angle and using her skills and knowledge to make deals happen from the brokerage standpoint.”

 

What’s Happening (11/13/24): Christmas classics coming to theater

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Families catch a screening of the Christmas comedy “Elf” at Tampa Theatre. Photo courtesy of Tampa Theatre.

TAMPA – When you visit the historic Tampa Theatre, you’re not just coming for a movie – you’re coming for an experience. 

One of the brightest and most beloved of those experiences is the tradition of sharing favorite holiday films on the big screen with family and friends and singing along to holiday carols with the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ before the show.

Guests attending the “Miracle on 34th Street” screening on Nov. 24 can get a photo with Old St. Nick, starting at 2 p.m., in front of the tree in the lobby. Photo courtesy of Tampa Theatre

Here are some upcoming screenings

  • ”Miracle on 34th Street” (1947) at 3 p.m. Nov. 24
  • ”White Christmas” (1954) at 3 p.m. Dec. 1 (sing-along)
  • ”Elf” (2003) at 3 p.m. Dec. 8
  • ”It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) at 7 p.m. Dec. 19, 20, 22 and 23, and 3 p.m. Dec. 22 and 23.
  • ”Home Alone” (1990) at 3 p.m. Dec. 29
  • ”Frozen” (2013) at 3 p.m. Jan. 5 (sing-along)

Get tickets at the historic Franklin Street Box Office or online at www.TampaTheatre.org.

The Holiday Classics series is presented by Bank of America, with promotional support from WEDU PBS. Additional support is provided by Moorelaughs, Bolin Law Group & Bolin Philanthropic Trust, and Smith & Associates Real Estate Foundation.

 

Nov. 13

Betmar Bandstand

Betmar Bandstand resumes its Wednesday evening entertainment in Clubhouse 2 at Betmar. Jam Bandits will perform during the opening event. Admission is free. Free popcorn is available. 

6 p.m.;  37137 Lakewood Drive Zephyrhills

 

Steinway Piano Series 

New Tampa Arts Center’s new Steinway & Sons Model D Concert Grand will be featured in a performance by the Nikolov-West Duo featuring Viktor Nikolov and Jane West. With over 30 years of combined experience, they proudly bring music to the beautiful Tampa Bay area communities. General admission tickets for Steinway Piano Series event costs $20. Buy them at NewTampaArtsCenter.org/Tickets.

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

 

Nov. 15

Movie Night

Harvester Community Church screens “Big George Foreman” during a free community movie night. A children’s movie will be shown for younger kids. Popcorn and fellowship are available. 

6:30 p.m.; 2432 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Theater Production

Live Oak Theatre presents its latest production, “Beauty at the Beast,” at the Carol and Frank Morsani Center for the Arts. Future performances are held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday on Nov. 15-17 and 22-24. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $10 for children and free for 13 and under with the purchase of an adult seat. Buy them at  ​​liveoaktheatre.org/current-production.

7:30 p.m.; 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville

 

Nov. 16

Fall Festival 

Christ Cumberland Presbyterian Church hosts a fall festival with a large yard sale, vendors, mini plant swap, bake sale, chili and hot dog sales, and boutique items. Funds support local charities as well as nonprofits across the country and world. 

8 a.m. to 2 p.m.; 19501 Holly Lane, Lutz

 

Park Event

Be Seen Be Heard hosts Saturday @ Zephyr Park with artisans, food trucks and vendors at Zephyr Park. beseenbeheard.us/events/

9 a.m.-2 p.m.; 38116 5th Ave., Zephyrhills

 

Train Show/Sale

Regal Railways presents a Model Train Show/Sale with more than 60 tables of vendors selling various trains and toys at Elks Lodge. There will be a running train layout and a train to be an engineer. Admission costs $6 for adults or free for children 12 and younger. Credit cards are accepted to get into the show. Prepay at www.regalrailways.com.

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

 

Art Workshop

Susan Huskey conducts a workshop with the theme, “Painting Outside the Lines with Watercolor,” at the West Pasco Art Guild. Members pay $40. Others pay $50. Register in advance at or visit westpascoartguild.org.

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; 6206 Jefferson St., New Port Richey

 

Pasco Flea Fest

The Pasco Flea Fest: Fall Edition features vendors, a flea market, food vendors, a swap meet and live entertainment at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park.. Tents, tables, tarps and tailgates cost $30 for a 10-by-10-foot space. Call Community Market & Events at 727-365-6411 or email FleaFest@CommunityMarkets for vendor and swap information.

10 a.m.-3 p.m.; 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Open House

Christian Social Services holds its annual Holiday Open House with treats, raffles, sales and a first look at its Christmas inventory. Purchase supports the ministries which help to meet the needs in the community.  

10 a.m.-4 p.m..; 5514 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Fall into Art

The free festival features original, handmade art and crafts at San Antonio Pottery. Expect pottery, jewelry, turned wood, paintings and photography from Florida, Utah and North Carolina artists. A special exhibition and sale showcases the work of the students of San Antonio Pottery. The Chipco Creek String Band & Tasty Treats will perform music. Try your hand at the potter’s wheel. Have fun while donations support artists impacted by the recent hurricanes. $10 for 10 minutes with hands on clay. Visit potteryflorida.com or call 352-588-4228 for details. 

2-6 p.m.; 11903 Curley St., San Antonio 

 

Nov. 17

Catholic-Jewish Studies

Saint Leo University’s Center for Catholic-Jewish Studies hosts its Eternal Light Award Dinner: An Evening of Dialogue at Higgins Hall at St. Lawrence Catholic Church. Joseph Sievers, professor emeritus of Jewish history and literature of the Hellenistic period at the Pontifical Biblical Institute in Rome, will receive the Eternal Light Award. Registration is required by Nov. 1. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available at https://your.saintleo.edu/ccjs/elad. Contact Laurie Gens at or (352) 588-7711 for details. 

6-9 p.m.; 5225 N. Himes Ave., Tampa

 

Nov. 19

Book Sale

The Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library holds a Christmas Book Sale, while supplies last, during library hours in the bookstore. Fiction, nonfiction and children’s Christmas books, all reasonably priced.

10 a.m.-8 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Five-Dollar Flicks

New Tampa Arts Center screens “Fences,” the film adaptation of a Pulitzer Prize-winning play starring Denzel Washington, Viola Davis and Stephen Henderson. Catch a movie on the big screen for $5 a ticket. Buy tickets at NewTampaArtsCenter.org/Tickets.

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

 

Nov. 21

Garden Club

The Zephyrhills Garden Gate Garden Club meets at the First Presbyterian Church. The topic is “Cooking with Herbs.” Light refreshments will be served. Call 813-310-9165 for details.

9:15 a.m.; 5510 19th St., Zephyrhills

 

Nov. 22

Art Workshop

Pamela Varricchio conducts a workshop with the theme,  “Beginner Oil (Water Soluble) Painting,” at West Pasco Art Guild. Members pay $40. Others pay $50. Register in advance at or visit westpascoartguild.org. 

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; 6206 Jefferson St., New Port Richey

 

Theater Production

Live Oak Theatre presents its latest production, “Beauty at the Beast,” at the Carol and Frank Morsani Center for the Arts. Future performances are held at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday on Nov. 22-24. Tickets cost $25 for adults, $10 for children and free for 13 and under with the purchase of an adult seat. Buy them at  ​​liveoaktheatre.org/current-production.

7:30 p.m.; 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville

 

Nov. 23

Comedy Show

Max Amini performs stand-up comedy at Tampa Theatre. Amini burst into comedy in Los Angeles in 2002. This show, which features mature themes and adult language, is intended for ages 13 and older. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Tickets range from $45 to $110 plus taxes and fees (VIP tickets for front four rows cost $125). Buy them at tampatheatre.org.

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

 

Nov. 30

Indoor holiday fair

A Lutz Indoor Holiday Craft Fair includes unique handmade crafts made by local artisans. Visit the Facebook page for details. 

9 a.m.-1 p.m.;  2155 Northpointe Pkwy., Lutz

 

Dec. 7

Holiday Arts & Crafts

Koren’s Quarters Arts & Crafts Show  includes vendors, food trucks, holiday shops, Christmas music and pony rides. Admission and parking are free. Vendor spots cost $50. Visit Koren’s Quarters Show Facility on Facebook for details. 

9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 1120 Swilley Road, Plant City

 

Arts & Crafts

Lutz-Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club presents its 45th annual Arts & Crafts Show at Keystone Prep Academy. The show features over 175 vendors and food booths with artwork, handcrafts, jewelry, festive holiday and artisanal items plus lots for children.  

10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 18105 Gunn Hwy., Odessa

Dec. 8

Arts & Crafts

Lutz-Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club presents its 45th annual Arts & Crafts Show at Keystone Prep Academy. The show features over 175 vendors and food booths with artwork, handcrafts, jewelry, festive holiday and artisanal items plus lots for children.  

10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 18105 Gunn Hwy., Odessa

Dec. 21-23

Talk to Santa

The East Pasco Amateur Radio Society lets children talk to Santa via ham radio during the Church Street Christmas Walk in Dade City. The free event is open to the public. Kids will receive a card from Santa and a candy cane after they make contact with the North Pole.  Call Chris at 224-221-5064 or visit eparsonline.org for details. 

7-9 p.m.; 37744 Church Ave., Dade City 

 

Jan 25, 2025

Ham Radio

The East Pasco Amateur Radio Society hosts its Winter Field Day event at the San Antonio Train Depot Museum. Local amateur radio operators will be on the air for 24 hours straight. This is a practice for emergency radio communications. The free event is open to the public. Call Chris at 224-221-5064 or visit eparsonline.org for details. 

Noon; 32627 Railroad Ave., San Antonio

 

Jan. 31, 2025

Comedy Show

Comedian Becky Robinson brings her Members Only Club Tour to the Tampa Theatre. You may know her as the Entitled Housewife, the outspoken viral golf character Becky, or from her time as a regular on MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out with Nick Cannon.” Tickets cost $39.50-$59.50 plus taxes and fees. Buy them at tampatheatre.org.

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

 

 

 

Business Digest (11/13/24): Dade City Brew House wins at beer festival

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Pure Nonsense mimics the flavors of a s’more. Photo courtesy of Dade City Brew House

Dade City Brew House wins gold medal at beer festival

DADE CITY – Dade City Brew House earned a gold medal at the 2024 Great American Beer Festival competition. 

The microbrewery was recognized in the Dessert Stout/Pastry Stout beer-style category for Pure Nonsense, a Pastry Stout with cacao nibs, marshmallow, graham crackers and lactose.  

Coming in at a slow-sipping 10.9% ABV, Pure Nonsense mimics the flavors of a s’more.  

“We enter national competitions such as this one in hopes of receiving notes to help us improve at regional and local competitions, but to walk away with a medal at the Great American Beer Festival is a dream-like achievement,” said Guillermo Woolfolk, general manager and partner. “We could not be more proud of our brewer, Ryan Freeman, and getting this news while we were dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton was an incredible surprise. 

“The storm forced us to cancel our trip to Denver for GABF, but it was an amazing experience to celebrate this win with our community on our first day back open after Milton.”

The 2024 competition featured beers and ciders spanning 107 categories and 175 styles. 

 

Vacancy on the Pasco-Hernando Workforce Board of Directors

The Pasco-Hernando Workforce Board, dba CareerSource Pasco Hernando, serves the workforce development initiatives in Pasco and Hernando counties.

The organization administers state and federal funding for employment and training services for individuals and new or expanding businesses. 

CareerSource Pasco Hernando seeks nominations from local business organizations or business trade associations for one vacancy in the board of directors under the business category. 

Nominees should have policymaking or hiring authority, such as owners, chief executives or operating officers. They should represent businesses that provide employment in the Hernando area.

Nominate someone by contacting Nicole Beverley at or 727-326-1925.

 

Suncoast Credit Union gives $250K to American Red Cross

TAMPA – Suncoast Credit Union has donated $250,000 to the American Red Cross of Central Florida for hurricane relief efforts.

This latest contribution is part of Suncoast’s $850,000 statewide relief commitment to provide critical aid to Floridians facing immediate and long-term challenges following the storms.

The $850,000 commitment from Suncoast Credit Union focuses on key areas essential to recovery: hunger relief, crisis management and education. 

“As Floridians recover from the severe impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Suncoast Credit Union is committed to standing beside our communities in rebuilding lives and restoring hope,” said Kevin Johnson, president and CEO, Suncoast Credit Union. 

 

Better Together names Jess Tharpe as chief operating officer

FORT MYERS – Better Together has added Jess Tharpe as chief operating officer.

As outgoing assistant secretary of the Florida Office of Community Services, Tharpe served on the executive leadership team of the Florida Department of Children and Families. Tharpe has 10 years of experience in child and family services and 10 years of experience in business development, operations and administration.

“Her extensive knowledge of the child welfare system and her unwavering dedication to vulnerable children and families will be invaluable to our organization,” CEO Megan Rose said. “Jess’s background in leading transformational shifts within the Florida Department of Children and Families, her strategic initiatives, and her commitment to holistic and family-centered services make her an exceptional addition to our team.”

 

Chamber extends nominations for awards

The North Tampa Bay Chamber reopened nominations for its Annual Celebrating Excellence Awards for an additional week due to the event being rescheduled. 

Categories include Excellence in Collaboration Award, Excellence in Innovation Award, Excellence in Integrity Award, Excellence in Inclusivity Award and Community Hero Award

The event takes place Jan. 16, 2025.

 

Chalk Talk (11/13/24) Expo offers look at school choice options

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Expo offers look at school choice options

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools planned to inform families about the upcoming school choice application window and highlight available programs via the Pasco Pathways Innovative Programs and School Choice Expo.

The expo spans two days: 

  • Nov. 12, 5 to 8 p.m., at Gulf High School, 5085 Madison St., New Port Richey. 
  • Nov 14, 5 to 8 p.m., at Cypress Creek High School, 8701 Old Pasco Road, Wesley Chapel.

The expos will feature informational sessions that cover the general application process for new student enrollment and school choice. 

In addition, many of Pasco County’s schools will showcase their unique educational options like STEM and STEAM magnets, Cambridge Programme, International Baccalaureate, Career Pathways and more. 

Attendees will also have the chance to learn about Wendell Krinn Technical High School, Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, Angeline Academy of Innovation, Kirkland Ranch K-8, Skybrooke K-8 and early childhood programs.

The school choice application window will run from Jan. 8 to 21  for all schools and grade levels.

Visit pasco.k12.fl.us/expo to see all the schools attending, register for a session or access frequently asked questions.

 

District recognizes top staff

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized several staff member with annual awards.

  • Mike Baumaister won District Administrator of the Year.
  • Josh Borders, of R.B. Stewart Middle School, won Principal of the Year. 
  • Joel Quina, of J.W. Mitchell High School, earned Assistant Principal of the Year honors.
  • Matt Fox, of Mary Giella Elementary School, won NNB (noninstructional, nonbargaining) of the Year.
  • Lindsey Pahlck, of Connerton Elementary School, earned SRP (school related personnel) of the Year honors.
  • Addie Ogden (Double Branch Elementary School), Tabatha Whaley (Cypress Creek Middle School) and Elizabeth Skoglund (Land O’ Lakes High School) were named finalists for Teacher of the Year. 

 

Quick Hits

  • Principal Jeff Morgenstein welcomed Pasco County Schools officials and the community to a dedication of the new Gulf High School on Nov. 4.
  • Pasco County Schools appointed Michele Boylan as principal of Skybrooke K8.

 

Bikes For Christ gears up for busy holiday season

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Daphne and daughter Everleigh received their bike through Hillsborough County Schools. Photo courtesy of Bikes for Christ

DOVER – Bikes For Christ is preparing for another busy holiday season.

The need for bicycles becomes even greater around this time of year and Bikes For Christ needs help this Christmas season to continue supporting those less fortunate.

Bikes For Christ partners with over 100 organizations in the Tampa Bay area, providing bicycles as transportation for the clients these agencies serve. 

Its main focus is on veterans overcoming hardships, underprivileged children and individuals striving to escape poverty and challenging circumstances. 

Each bicycle is accompanied by a copy of the Gospel of John, reflecting the organization’s mission to share Christ’s love and care.

In addition to its ongoing holiday activities, Bikes For Christ has added a few events: 

  • Ribbon Cutting: Bikes For Christ will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. Nov. 14 to dedicate its new building at 2500 Al Simmons Road. facebook.com/share/17vBkETCq8/
  • Bicycles and Holiday Bells Fundraising Event: Belleair Towers in Clearwater will host the Bicycles and Holiday Bells fundraiser. The family-friendly event includes a ride on the Pinellas Trail, pictures with Santa, refreshments, raffles and auctions. The event runs from 10 a.m. to noon Dec. 7 at 1100 Ponce De Leon Blvd., Clearwater. www.eventbrite.com/e/bicycles-and-holiday-bells-tickets-1055289432099

This year, Bikes For Christ has received several accolades, including:

  • Nonprofit of the Year – Valrico FishHawk Chamber.
  • Finalist for Nonprofit of the Year – South Tampa Chamber of Commerce.

Health & Wellness (11/13/24): Hospital wins 45 awards from Healthgrades

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These charts show fall 2024 clinical achievement awards for HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital. Charts courtesy of HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital

Hospital wins 45 awards from Healthgrades

HUDSON – HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital has been recognized as America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Vascular Care and Surgical Care and as America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Orthopedic Surgery, Spine Surgery, Gastrointestinal Care and Gastrointestinal Surgery.  

These are among the 45 clinic excellence awards for 2025 the hospital earned from Healthgrades.

Bayonet Point Hospital was also ranked No. 5 in the state for Vascular Surgery. 

Earlier this year, Bayonet Point Hospital received the 2024 Patient Safety Excellence Award, which recognizes hospitals in the top 10% in the nation for patient safety.

“Our team is absolutely committed to providing the highest quality of care to our patients through adhering to the latest treatment guidelines and protocols, while providing personalized, compassionate care,” CEO Sally Seymour said. 

Healthgrades evaluated risk-adjusted mortality and complication rates for over 30 common conditions and procedures at 4,500 hospitals to determine the top performers in specialty care. 

On the web: healthgrades.com 

 

These charts show fall 2024 clinical achievement awards for HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital. Charts courtesy of HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital

 

001: Shanalee Cortes; Donna Sherman, Robin Norris, Kelly James and Edward Cutolo, celebrate the unveiling of the VA’s new digital ad campaign for women veterans Nov. 5 at the Tampa International Airport. Photo courtesy of Bay Pines VA Healthcare System

VA reaching out to women veterans

TAMPA – The VA has launched a digital ad campaign in major airports across the Southeast, including Tampa International Airport and Southwest Florida International Airport, to reach more women veterans, their families and caregivers.

The campaigns will run through Nov. 30 and Dec. 31, 2024, respectively.

Using QR code technology, veterans and their loved ones can learn more about VA health care services, enrollment processes and resources specifically designed for women veterans.

“Bay Pines VA remains committed to transforming the entire health care experience to be more inclusive, responsive, and specific to the health care concerns and preferences of the women veterans of today and tomorrow,” said Kristine Brown, interim director of Bay Pines VA Healthcare System. “Throughout our catchment area, we are proud to provide high-quality care to more than 10,000 women veterans annually at one of our nine sites of care in southwest Florida.”

On the web: va.gov/bay-pines-health-care/health-services/women-veteran-care/ 

 

SHINE volunteers needed for Medicare education

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas is seeking volunteers with the SHINE program (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders). 

A volunteer orientation will be held at 11 a.m. Dec. 11 at the Regency Park Library, 9701 Little Road. Stop by to see how you can help Medicare beneficiaries.

SHINE is a statewide volunteer program offering seniors, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers free, unbiased counseling on Medicare and health insurance. 

SHINE volunteers are not affiliated with any insurance and do not sell anything. 

Call 727-570-9696, ext. 234, or visit floridashine.org/jointhe-team.aspx to complete an application or learn more.

 

Researcher earns American Lung Association grant 

TAMPA – The American Lung Association recognized Alex Jaeger, assistant member of the Molecular Oncology Department at Moffitt Cancer Center, with the Lung Cancer Discovery Award for his research on lung cancer.

Around 25% of people with lung cancer have a KRAS gene mutation, which is associated with accelerated cell growth that can lead to cancer. A new class of drugs targeting KRAS mutations has emerged, but many patients experience drug resistance. Jaeger’s research seeks to advance lung cancer treatment by studying KRAS inhibition and the immune system.

“KRAS inhibitors are poised to become a mainstay in lung cancer treatment for years to come, but much work is needed to identify therapeutic combinations that will improve durable responses in patients,” Jaeger said. “In this work, we aim to identify how KRAS inhibitors alter antigen presentation in lung cancer to identify rationally designed, next generation immunotherapies to improve responses to KRAS inhibitors.”

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding support group

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North offers a free in-person breastfeeding support group and class during November. 

Events are held in classrooms at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, 4211 Van Dyke Road.

  • Breastfeeding Support Group: The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. Offered 12:30 to 2 p.m. Nov. 14 or Dec. 12. 
  • Understanding Breastfeeding: Provides information to the expectant mom 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 3 to 6 p.m. Nov. 14 or Dec. 12.

Register in advance for the free events by visiting BayCareEvents.org or calling 855-314-8352. 

 

Beat holiday stress from Flow & Glow

  1. LEO – The Saint Leo University Wellness Center, in conjunction with Magnolia + Ash and Community Yoga Dade City, will host Flow & Glow, designed to support the body and soul ahead of the holidays.

Flow & Glow will leave the participant with a sense of ease, glowing from the inside out. The day begins with an immersive DIY facial experience, followed by a gentle yoga flow and finished with a yoga nidra practice.

The event will take place from 2 to 4 p.m. Nov. 17 in the wellness center. Registration costs $45 per person plus tax and includes products and a take-home gift. Register at https://wellness.saintleo.edu/.

Saint Leo University is at 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo. The wellness center is on the west side of campus, behind Benedictine Hall. Email for more details. 

 

Saint Leo University earns stripes as top school for military

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Student-veteran Josh Thornsberry receives a Quilt of Valor in 2022. Thornsberry earned a bachelor’s in psychology in 2023 and is in Saint Leo’s psychology graduate degree program. Photo courtesy of Saint Leo University

ST. LEO – The Military Times has included Saint Leo University in its list of top colleges and universities for military service members and veterans. 

Saint Leo earned rankings of No. 120 among all schools in the United States; No. 34 among schools offering both in-person and online degrees; No. 27 among all private, nonprofit schools in the United States; No. 32 among schools in the Southeast; and No. 9 in Florida.

More than 900 students at Saint Leo are affiliated with the military. This includes members of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard; National Guard members; retired military officers and enlisted veterans; and military spouses and dependents.

Each year, Military Times surveys colleges and universities nationwide to evaluate their veteran-focused programs. 

Its team analyzes these survey responses along with public data from the Department of Education and Department of Veterans Affairs to produce the rankings. 

“Saint Leo University recognizes the special needs of our veterans, those serving in the military, and their families, and strives to provide the best educational opportunities for them,” said Ed Dadez, university president. “It is an honor to be recognized by Military Times for the work we are doing to support the success of our student-veterans, helping them transition into civilian life and continue their education. Saint Leo advocates for its military-affiliated students and student-veterans whether they study at University Campus, online, or at one of our education centers.”

In addition to its residential campus in St. Leo, students are educated at teaching locations in Florida and Georgia, including at Naval Air Station Key West and MacDill Air Force Base, as well as through an online program.

“As a son of a deceased U.S. Navy Vietnam veteran, I am grateful to be part of a university that provides a welcoming and supportive environment that values our military-affiliated students’ service and fosters their success,” said Anthony DeSantis, associate vice president of student affairs and director of the Office of Military Affairs & Services. 

Part of that support includes special programming for student-veterans and military-affiliated students. 

Saint Leo University hosts several signature events for these students and the community, including Conversations About Success Beyond Service. The monthly webinar features speakers who share their personal journeys or discuss opportunities to find resources.

Other programming includes the 22 Push-Up Challenge for Veteran Suicide Prevention; Welcome Back “We’ve Got Your Six” events; and Veterans Appreciation Month events.

Student-veterans also are supported through a Military Resource Center, a Veterans Affairs work-study program, a Student Veterans of America chapter, a Military Excellence Fund, and several endowed scholarships.

In 2021, Saint Leo created an undergraduate degree devoted to veteran studies, and in 2024, Devon Wilson of Riverview, FL, became the first Bachelor of Arts in Veteran Studies Degree graduate. In the fall, the university expanded the program, and the degree now is offered online, in addition to being taught on campus. A veteran studies minor also is available in this emerging field.  

Students in the program study the distinctive lives and cultures formed by military service and by retirement from service. The degree program is open to all students, not only those who have a military background.

  • 001: Saint Leo University’s For Those Who Serve sculpture was unveiled at the university’s residential campus on Veterans Day in 2010 and honors the branches of the military as well as students and staff. Photo courtesy of Saint Leo University
  • 002: Student-veteran Josh Thornsberry receives a Quilt of Valor in 2022. Thornsberry earned a bachelor’s in psychology in 2023 and is in Saint Leo’s psychology graduate degree program. Photo courtesy of Saint Leo University