The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Chicken dinners lead to community winners

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The City of Zephyrhills Mayor’s Youth Council shared proceeds of its Chicken BBQ Drive-Thru fundraiser with CHIPZ. The event saw strong community involvement. Photo courtesy of City of Zephyrhills

ZEPHYRHILLS – The City of Zephyrhills Mayor’s Youth Council presented an $11,000 check to the Community Hope and Intervention Project of Zephyrhills during a city council meeting Dec. 8 at Zephyrhills City Hall.

Members of the youth council, led by Mayor Melonie Bahr Monson, selected CHIPZ as their annual community project, setting an original fundraising goal of $4,000. 

CHIPZ supports people experiencing homelessness in the Zephyrhills area through outreach and prevention, community navigation and connections to critical resources. The 501c3 organization strives “to create and increase access to programs, services and housing for the most vulnerable residents of Zephyrhills and the surrounding area.”

The youth council raised $10,830 through its citywide Chicken BBQ Drive-Thru fundraiser. 

Pitmaster Kevin Bahr, of Bahr’s Propane Gas & A/C, prepared all 350 chicken dinners with support from Beth Aker, executive director of Meals on Wheels of Pasco.

Ten youth council members and six volunteers from the Zephyrhills JROTC and Zephyrhills FFA assisted during the event. City staff and youth council mentors also supported operations throughout the evening. 

The event had 20 community sponsors, many of whom donated their purchased meals, allowing more than 150 dinners to be served directly to residents in need.

Additional last-minute contributions from community donors pushed the total to $11,000.

 

Business Digest (12/24/25): GROW Pasco offers breakout sessions

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GROW Pasco returns with impactful breakout sessions

  1. LEO – Taylor Doe will give the keynote presentation at GROW Pasco 2026. 

Doe’s presentation, “And Then Moments,” goes deeper into entrepreneurial stories than what we’re accustomed to hearing. It’s a nitty-gritty look at what goes into success.

Attendees can also pick up some pointers during 15 breakout sessions, including: 

  • Funding Forum with Michael Anselmo, Brad Owens and Rafael Lohner.
  • Top 10 Sales Drivers with Tim Neilan.
  • Factors that Impact a Loan Decision with Johannys Irizarry.
  • Profit Optimization Made Simple with Joe Abreu.
  • Build An Exit-Ready Business with Tee Gweena.

The sixth annual event takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 19 at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, St. Leo. 

Sponsorships are available. General admission costs $65.

Register in advance at pascoedc.com.

 

McDonald’s restaurants raise money for charity 

  1. PETERSBURG – Locally owned and operated McDonald’s restaurants across Central Florida raised $453,691.97 this holiday season to support Ronald McDonald House Tampa Bay and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida. 

From September through November, 406 restaurants and 44 owner/operators collected donations through in-store Round Up and $1, $3, and $5 giving programs.

Customers contributed by rounding up purchases or donating through multiple payment options, including the McDonald’s app. 

The donation will help support families with critically ill children by providing housing and services near hospitals.

 

GTE Financial named a top workplace

TAMPA – GTE Financial has been named one of America’s Best Workplaces for 2026 by Best Companies Group, in partnership with BridgeTower Media.

The national recognition highlights organizations with exceptional workplace culture and people-first practices. GTE Financial ranked No. 11 among large companies (250–999 employees).

“At GTE Financial, our employees are the foundation of everything we do,” said Brian Best, president and CEO of GTE Financial. “We believe that if we invest in our people, support their growth and foster a culture where they can thrive, our members and communities benefit directly.”

GTE Financial is a not-for-profit credit union serving members throughout the Tampa Bay region and beyond.

 

Achieva Credit Union hires chief lending officer

DUNEDIN – Achieva Credit Union has appointed David Germann as its new chief lending officer as the organization continues to expand lending programs across Florida. 

Germann has more than 35 years of experience in consumer, business and real estate lending.

Prior to joining Achieva, Germann served as vice president of sales and marketing at Credit Union LIFT Fund, LLC, and previously held the role of chief lending officer at Credit Union of America.

“His track record of driving responsible growth, paired with his deep understanding of what members truly need, makes him the right leader to guide Achieva’s lending strategy into the future,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of Achieva Credit Union. “Under Dave’s leadership, we’ll continue expanding access to credit, building innovative products, and helping more Floridians achieve their goals.”

 

AmSkills announces leadership transition

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HOLIDAY – AmSkills announced a key leadership transition designed to strengthen the vocational training and workforce development organization’s long-term sustainability and expand its regional impact.

Tom Mudano will be stepping down after more than a decade as CEO.

Over the years, Mudano played a key role in building AmSkills’ programs and establishing its presence as a leading workforce development organization in Tampa Bay. 

Mudano will continue supporting the organization during and after the transition on tasks important to the growth and future of AmSkills.

The board of directors will begin a formal search for a new permanent CEO in the coming months. In the meantime, the board has appointed Peter Buczynsky as interim CEO. 

Buczynsky, a founding partner of AmSkills, brings extensive experience in organizational growth, manufacturing leadership and workforce development. He has also served as CEO of Pharmaworks, a company he co-founded and sold in 2020.

“Tom’s contributions shaped AmSkills into the strong organization it is today,” Buczynsky said. “As we move forward, my focus is on strengthening our direction, reinforcing our mission, and positioning AmSkills for long-term sustainability and growth.”

AmSkills teaches high and home-school students and adults the foundational skills needed for a career in manufacturing using hands-on training. The 501c3 organization also gives these students the chance to explore multiple career paths in the manufacturing and public utility industries. Once completed, candidates are eligible for paid, semi-skilled jobs or skilled apprenticeship opportunities.

Under Buczynsky’s leadership, AmSkills will continue advancing its core pillars:

  • Registered Apprenticeships focusing on industrial maintenance, to help public utilities, manufacturing and technical industries recruit, train and retain talent to meet growing workforce demands.
  • Career Discovery Bootcamps that create pathways for under-employed individuals, at-risk populations and adults seeking career transformation.
  • Youth Technical Training Programs that provide standardized, hands-on instruction to prepare students for careers in manufacturing and the skilled trades.

Light the World Giving Machine launches in Tampa Bay

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Tampa Bay residents are invited to celebrate generosity in a whole new way this holiday season – through vending machines. Photo courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

CLEARWATER – Have you ever bought a goat from a vending machine? How about warm clothing for a child, groceries for a family or job training for someone seeking a fresh start?

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints invites Tampa Bay residents to experience the joy of giving through the Light the World Giving Machine.

Instead of dispensing snacks or drinks, this Giving Machine allows shoppers to choose charitable items, ranging from local support services to global humanitarian aid, using a simple touchscreen. Photo courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The red vending machines make it easy to donate essential items locally to those in need.

Now through Jan. 3, visitors to Clearwater Mall, 2719 Gulf to Bay Blvd, Suite. 1120, Clearwater (at the Crumbl Cookies storefront) can use the Giving Machine to buy charitable gifts such as meals, hygiene kits, clothing, livestock and more for individuals and families supported by trusted, local and global nonprofit organizations.

Every item purchased at the Clearwater Mall Giving Machine directly benefits one of five participating Tampa Bay-area charities and two global charities: Metropolitan Ministries, Premier Community HealthCare, The Spring of Tampa Bay, CASA Pinellas, The Shepherd Center of Tarpon Springs, Mentors International (Global) and Splash (Global).

“Domestic violence impacts so many families in our community,” said Lariana Forsythe, CEO of CASA Pinellas. 

“Support like this ensures CASA can help local survivors and their children find hope and healing.”

Tampa residents Patrick and Anne Thornton said the Christmas season wouldn’t be complete without a chance to give to others. They’re excited to help neighbors via the Giving Machine. 

On the web: GivingMachine.org

Bilirakis applauds expansion of newborn screening 

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) praised the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ decision to add Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Metachromatic Leukodystrophy to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel.

Bilirakis joined HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., members of Congress, patient advocates and families at the Dec. 16 announcement. 

“As co-chair of the Congressional Rare Disease Caucus, I have worked for years to expand newborn screening so that no child suffers because of a lack of diagnosis,” Bilirakis said. “This action will help ensure earlier diagnoses, better treatments and more hope for families – while also advancing research and innovation for rare diseases.”

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Metachromatic Leukodystrophy are often not diagnosed until children are 4 or 5 years old, after irreversible damage has occurred. Adding these conditions to the Recommended Uniform Screening Panel will give families critical answers at birth, allowing children to access FDA-approved therapies at the most effective stage and potentially change the course of their lives.

Bilirakis emphasized the significance of the Beacham family’s participation in the announcement. Their daughter’s personal journey shows the life-changing impact of early newborn screening.

“This decision represents a monumental step forward rooted in compassion and science,” Bilirakis said. “I want to ensure children like Mattie have the best possible start in life. Early screening can mean the difference between years of uncertainty and pain, and a future filled with timely care, informed decisions and hope.”

The Recommended Uniform Screening Panel serves as a federal recommendation for universal newborn screening, with states determining implementation. Bilirakis encouraged states to move swiftly to adopt the new screenings.

 

Health & Wellness (12/24/25): Foundation opens access to health

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Attendees of the Community Health Fair will have access to a wide range of resources and support. This includes preventive health screenings, dental care, mental health support and personal care services such as showers, haircuts and manicures. A mobile pharmacy and pantry will be on-site. Photo courtesy of Pioneer Medical Foundation

 

The Community Health Fair is a free event open to the public. Photo courtesy of Pioneer Medical Foundation

Tampa Bay residents can get free medical resources

TAMPA – Pioneer Medical Foundation hopes to bridge the gap some residents across Tampa Bay face when it comes to access to medical care and critical community resources.

The nonprofit will host its fifth annual Community Health Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 10 at Water Works Park, 1701 N. Highland Ave., Tampa. 

Physicians, volunteers and community partners will provide medical attention, social support and resources.

“We design this gathering around the needs we see in our community,” said Ano Kashumba, executive director of Pioneer Medical Foundation. “From preventive medical screenings to clothing and job support, the event is a one-stop opportunity for people to take their next step with confidence.”

Since its inception, the Community Health Fair has served more than 1,000 people who might not otherwise have access to care. 

Last year, nearly 200 community members received dental extractions, blood pressure and diabetes screenings, warm meals and follow-up treatment. One participant’s mammogram revealed a potential health concern and was quickly connected to lifesaving care.

“From day one, Pioneer Medical Foundation has been guided by a simple principle: high-quality health care should be accessible to everyone and strong communities are built when no one is left behind,” said Dr. S. Ifran Ali, president and CEO of Pioneer Medical Group. “The Community Health Fair is a tangible expression of that mission, bringing together volunteers, physicians and partners to remove barriers and make a real difference in people’s lives.”

The initiative expands its offerings with lung cancer screenings in partnership with Moffitt Cancer Center and on-site mammograms through AdventHealth.

 

Pasco County Fire Rescue pioneers life-saving care

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County Fire Rescue is launching its new Prehospital Blood Transfusion Program beginning Dec. 17. 

The groundbreaking initiative brings life-saving blood directly to patients before they ever reach the hospital.

Pasco County Fire Rescue is one of only two fire departments in the Tampa Bay area providing this advanced level of care. Specially trained critical care team members will carry blood supplies and respond directly to trauma scenes when a transfusion is needed.

“Administering blood right at the scene means patients get critical care at the very moment they need it most,” Fire Chief Ryan Guynn said. “This program marks a major step forward in trauma care for our community.”

Severe blood loss is one of the most dangerous complications in trauma emergencies, accounting for nearly 40% of trauma-related deaths. 

Follow Pasco County Fire Rescue on Facebook, X and Instagram to learn about upcoming blood drives.

On the web: mypas.co/FireRescue

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding support 

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

Events are open to all, regardless of which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your children. The events will be held in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North classrooms, 4211 Van Dyke Road.

  • Breastfeeding Support Group: For breastfeeding mothers, their babies and one support person (grandmother, aunt and others) The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. The support group will be held Jan. 15, 10 to 11 a.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. The class will be held Jan. 15, 1 to 5 p.m.

Register for the free events by visiting BayCareEvents.org and choosing “St. Joseph’s Hospital-North” in the “Facility/Location” filter and scrolling to the group or class you are interested in attending. Or, you can also register by phone by calling 855-314-8352 and pressing the number “2” at the prompt.

 

Get answers on Medicare

ST. PETERSBURG – SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas.

Specially trained volunteers can assist with Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information.

They’ll answer questions at the following Medicare programs: 

  • Jan. 7 at noon at the Largo Public Library, 120 Central Park Drive, Largo. 727-587-6715 ext. 2508
  • Jan. 8 at 10 a.m. at the New Port Richey Library, 5939 Main St., New Port Richey. 727-853-1279
  • Jan. 15 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL-54, Wesley Chapel. 813-788-6375
  • Jan. 17 at 10 a.m. at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. 813-929-1214
  • Jan. 21 at 11 a.m. at the Pinellas Park Library, 7770 52nd St. N., Pinellas Park. 727-369-0669
  • Jan. 21 at 1 p.m. at the Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-893-1073
  • Jan. 22 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th St., Dade City. 352-567-3576

SHINE services are free, unbiased and confidential. Counselors do not sell anything. They can be reached by calling 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.

Chalk Talk (12/24/25): Saint Leo builds on reputation with veterans

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Saint Leo University honors its student-veterans during a campus veterans appreciation event in November. Caroline Jorgensen/Saint Leo University


Saint Leo builds on reputation for educating veterans

ST. LEO – Saint Leo University has been recognized as a national leader in serving military-affiliated students, earning top placements across multiple categories in the 2025 Military Times Best for Vets: Colleges rankings.

The university improved its standing in every category from 2024.

Saint Leo University’s 2025 rankings, among 355 institutions reviewed, include:

  • Overall: No. 53 (up 67 spots)
  • General Education: No. 50 (newly ranked)
  • Private, Nonprofit Schools: No. 10 (up 17 spots)
  • In-Person and Online Programs: No. 11 (up 23 spots)
  • Southeast Schools: No. 13 (up 19 spots)
  • Florida: No. 6 (up 3 spots)

“Saint Leo’s mission has always been rooted in service, and it is an honor to be recognized for our continued commitment to those who serve our country,” President Jim Burkee said. “We are proud to provide our student-veterans with flexible learning options, outstanding support and an educational community that believes deeply in their success.”

Military Times analyzes survey responses and public data to produce the rankings.

On the web: bestforvets.militarytimes.com/colleges

 

Applications open for Spotlight on Talent 

WESLEY CHAPEL – Heritage Arts Center Association is accepting applications for its 43rd annual Spotlight on Talent performing arts competition for students in grades K-12. 

The regional event will be held at the IPAC Theater on the Cypress Creek High campus, with auditions set for Feb. 28 and final performances at noon and 7 p.m. March 28.

Hundreds of students compete each year for $4,000 in cash prizes and trophies, performing before professional judges who provide written feedback. Applications are available at heritagearts.org and are due Feb. 12.

Thanks to renewed support from Suncoast Credit Union, two $1,000 scholarships will again be awarded to Pasco County graduating seniors, with two additional visual arts scholarships presented in May.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, email Barbara Friedman at or call 352-424-0135. There is also a donate button at heritagearts.org.

 

Foundations team up for book fair

TAMPA – Hillsborough Education Foundation teamed up with The Each Child Foundation for a Book Fair on Dec. 16 at Ippolito Elementary School. 

Students could not only pick out free books but they also received personalized bags with school supplies. 

“Early literacy is a crucial element in a child’s holistic growth, laying the groundwork not just for academic achievement but also for success later on in life,” said Anna Corman, president and CEO of Hillsborough Education Foundation. “We’re honored to join forces with The Each Child Foundation on an event like this, which will help instill a love for reading that will empower students to unlock their full potential.”

The Each Child Foundation works to ensure every child can grow, succeed and belong through opportunity. 

“Every child deserves books they can call their own, a gateway to new worlds and ideas,” said Stanley Fulton, founder and chairman of The Each Child Foundation. 

Research shows that when children cannot read proficiently by third grade, they are far more likely to fall behind in every subject and are significantly more likely to drop out of high school later on. Poverty compounds this challenge.

“As principal, I am grateful for our community’s support in bringing this book fair to our school,” Principal Erin Fiallo said. “By placing books and hope directly in our students’ hands, we are investing in their futures.”

 

Castor announces app winner

TAMPA – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) announced that Sharan Santharam Srinivasan, Ammar Omar and Sujay Korada were awarded the top prize in her annual congressional app challenge with their app “SunScreened.”

The 12th-graders from Robinson High School created the app with JavaScript and AI image processing and aim to help Americans understand the harms of UV rays and the importance of sunscreen for overall skin health. 

The winner will be recognized in the U.S. Capitol during the House of Code celebration in the spring, alongside other winners of congressional app competitions from across the country.

“Encouraging students to explore STEM fields through the app challenge is a great way to help younger generations learn about science and technology in a creative manner and spark their interest in the STEM workforce,” Castor said. “It is incredible to see students across the Tampa Bay area combine public good with technology.”

 

Chalk Talk (12/17/25): Donations help thousands of students

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Two Good Soles donations help thousands of students

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County Government and Constitutional Offices collected more than 8,000 pairs of shoes and socks for kids in Pasco County Schools during the Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive.

This year’s drive resulted in 2,757 pairs of shoes and 5,325 pairs of socks.

Over the past 10 years, the Two Good Soles event has collected 24,813 pairs of shoes and 58,872 pairs of socks, which social workers distribute to Pasco students.

“Ten years and this event has become bigger and better,” said Cathy Pearson, assistant county administrator for public services.  “This is a great way Pasco County bands together to make a positive difference in so many students’ lives.”

All collected shoes and socks are distributed to students enrolled in Pasco County Schools.

 

Bill seeks to boost student veteran success

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis and Lois Frankel reintroduced bipartisan legislation to authorize funding for Student Veteran Success Centers at colleges and universities nationwide, helping student veterans transition from military to academic life.

“I have personally visited many schools that offer student veteran centers and spoken with the veterans who utilize them,” Bilirakis said. “The veterans confirm that the enhanced services and specialized resources provided through the centers are invaluable as they seek to successfully reintegrate into civilian society. I hope my colleagues will join us in expediting passage of this important initiative.”

Student veterans face unique challenges, including long breaks from school, service-related disabilities, PTSD and family responsibilities, which can lead to higher dropout rates and limited job opportunities.

The Veteran Education Empowerment Act reauthorizes the Centers of Excellence for Veteran Student Success grant program through fiscal year 2033, supporting institutions in creating and operating Student Veteran Success Centers. Since its creation, the Department of Education has awarded nearly $50 million to more than 100 schools, including $4 million to eight institutions in Florida.

 

Bilirakis launches Kids Online Safety Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis unveiled the Kids Online Safety Act on Dec. 5. 

The legislation provides children, teens and parents with the safeguards and tools needed to better protect against serious online threats to kids’ well-being.

“Children and teens are constantly connected to devices, and their reality is now a blend of virtual and real-world experiences, conditions that have been proven to exacerbate isolation and negative social interactions, such as sexual abuse,” Bilirakis said. “We’ve seen far too many children and teens succumb to tragedy after being exposed to dangers online. After multiple congressional hearings and whistleblower testimonies, there is widespread, bipartisan consensus that Big Tech is failing to mitigate risks, empower parents and safeguard its youngest users. Our legislation will require them to do so.”

KOSA outlines a series of safeguards that Big Tech platforms must implement to protect minors. 

 

Castor makes nominations to U.S. Service Academies

TAMPA – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor announced 16 Tampa Bay-area students who received nominations for admission into service academies.

Receiving a nomination to one of our nation’s service academies is an essential step towards receiving an appointment. Nominations are earned based on each student’s interview with Castor’s nomination committee, their academic record, participation in extracurricular activities and demonstrated leadership qualities.

Castor granted her nomination to the following students:

  • Berkeley Preparatory School: Decker W. Deady
  • Dr. Earl J Lennard High School: Sawyer J. Burns, 
  • H.B. Plant High School: William D. Baker and Roman A. Neske
  • Jesuit High School: Robert K. Bossowski, Jesse D. Cogburn, Cade C. Holland and Asher Koontz.
  • Northeast High School: Malik K. Robinson
  • Robinson High School: Nicholas C. Zamprogno
  • Salisbury School: John D. Williams, Salisbury School
  • Steinbrenner High School: Konrad J. Paradies
  • US Military Academy Prep School: Elijah R. Chames, 
  • Walter L. Sickles High School: Kaylee M. DeLory, Katelynn R. McEntee and Simon Smith

“These talented students are America’s future leaders,” Castor said. “Their interest in serving our country is a point of pride for our patriotic Tampa Bay community.”

 

Business Digest (12/17/25): Models volunteer at Metropolitan Ministries 

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Calendar cover model Selena Sanchez (Pembroke Pines), centerfold Ashton Johannesson (St. Petersburg), Miss June Gracie Chamberlain (Brandon) and Miss December Mikayla Flanagan (Chicago) pitched in at Metropolitan Ministries. Photo courtesy of HMC Hospitality Group

Models volunteer at Metropolitan Ministries 

CLEARWATER – Several models in the 2026 Hooters Calendar volunteered Dec. 5 at Metropolitan Ministries.

Hooters has a longstanding partnership with Metropolitan Ministries. 

The models assisted the organization by helping in the daycare.  They took part in activities with the children and assisted with cleaning.  

“A big part of the annual calendar tour in Tampa Bay is being able to volunteer and give back to organizations in our neighborhood including our longtime community partner Metropolitan Ministries,” said Denise Williams, chief marketing officer of HMC Hospitality Group.   

The 2026 Hooters Calendar is available for purchase at all Tampa Bay area Hooters locations and includes over $100 in coupons. The first Hooters Calendar was released in 1986.  

 

Join Pasco’s Jobs & Economic Opportunities Committee

PASCO COUNTY – Interested in helping grow Pasco County’s economy?

The Jobs and Economic Opportunities Committee, which oversees the use of the Jobs and Economic Opportunities Trust Fund portion of Penny for Pasco, is looking for a new volunteer to fill one open seat. The seat is available to any Pasco County resident in the manufacturing or agriculture industries.

The committee consists of up to nine members, appointed by county commissioners. They meet quarterly and provide annual updates to commissioners. 

Return your application and resume to through Dec. 29. 

On the web: pascocountyfl.gov

 

Registration opens soon for insurance summit

TALLAHASSEE – Florida Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky is announcing the upcoming 2026 OIR Insurance Summit will bring top regulators, consumer advocates and industry executives together to discuss Florida’s insurance market. 

The summit is ideal for professionals seeking to understand the present and shape the future of insurance regulation. OIR is hosting the Summit on April 14 and 15, 2026 in Tallahassee. Early registration will open in January.

“Our summit will be an unparalleled opportunity to engage in additional forward-thinking solutions to stabilize the market, national insurance perspectives, the importance of resiliency, critical oversight components and more,” Yaworsky said.

On the web: floir.com

 

Reemployment tax rate remains low

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Department of Revenue announced Dec. 5 approximately 65% of Florida’s employers will continue to pay the lowest possible rate for reemployment taxes in 2026. 

This is the 11th consecutive year employers are benefiting from the low rate of 0.1%. Those contributions go toward a program that helps Florida’s job seekers become reemployed. 

Florida’s job growth rate outpaces the national average, which has allowed the state to maintain the minimum reemployment tax rate for businesses.

Employers pay a percentage only on the first $7,000 of wages paid to each employee. Florida is one of only four states with a $7,000 wage base; all remaining states have a higher wage base. Employers with stable employment receive the lowest rate. Reemployment taxes, or payroll taxes, fund Florida’s Reemployment Assistance Trust Fund. This fund has a balance of more than $4.8 billion.

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host Coffee Social and Lunch N’ Learn events. 

  • Members network during Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Dec. 17 at Subaru of Wesley Chapel, 26570 Silver Maple Pkwy., Wesley Chapel. 
  • Chad Cooper, a financial planner affiliated with Gateway Financial Advisors LLC, talks about “Beyond Investments: What Financial Planners Really Do?” during Lunch N Learn from noon to 1:30 p.m. Dec. 18 at USF Credit Union, 20610 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa. Registration costs $15. Register in advance. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Veterans Roundtable, Land O’ Lakes Business & Brochure Exchange, Monthly Membership Breakfast as well as women’s and young professionals programming.

  • Professional Women in Business meet for lunch from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 17 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance. 
  • Young Professionals Group members network during Coffee Connections from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Dec. 19 at Starkey Market, 3460 Starkey Blvd., Trinity. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will host Business Breakfast, Annual Christmas Mixer, Coffee & Networking and a ribbon cutting. 

  • New and prospective members learn about chamber membership during Core Connections from 8 to 9 a.m. Dec. 18 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce, 38550 5th Ave, Zephyrhills. Register in advance. 
  • Members network during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Dec. 19 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.) and 8 to 9 a.m. Dec. 23 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.). 

Visit eastpascochamber.org for details about the chamber and events. 

Dual Enrollment program saves $4M+ for families

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NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College’s Dual Enrollment program not only helps students get a head start on college but also creates financial savings for families across Pasco and Hernando counties.

The program allows high school students to take college-level courses at no cost to the student or their family. 

During the 2024-25 academic year, 5,542 high school-aged students participated in PHSC’s Dual Enrollment program across Pasco and Hernando counties. The program allows students to experience college-level learning environments, build confidence and reduce the time needed to complete a degree after high school graduation.

In addition to academic benefits, the PHSC accelerated learning office reports that PHSC saved Pasco and Hernando high school families approximately $4.15 million in tuition during the 2024-25 academic year, based on PHSC’s $105.18 per credit hour cost. 

“This past academic year, our reports show that families with high school-aged students participating in dual enrollment saved, on average, $750 per student in tuition costs,” President Eric Hall said. “This program not only makes higher education more accessible and affordable, but also helps students accelerate their progress toward their college degrees.”

During the spring 2025 graduation, 123 Dual Enrollment students from Pasco County and 31 Dual Enrollment students from Hernando County graduated with their associate in arts degrees from PHSC. Of those students, 10 were honored as valedictorians and five as salutatorians in their respective high schools.

“PHSC has been a big part of my growth over the past three years and has set me up for success in my future,” said Harlee Wilson, Dual Enrollment alumnus. “PHSC truly wants its students to succeed, and it is shown throughout the campus. I am grateful to be a PHSC alumnus.”

On the web: accelerated.phsc.edu/dual-enrollment