The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Girls invited to experience scouting at festival

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Girl Scouts of West Central Florida serves more than 20,000 members across eight counties: Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, and Sumter. Photo courtesy of GSWCF

TAMPA – Girls and their families are invited to kick off the 2024-25 Girl Scout Year at Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s annual Girl Scout Fest.

The event was rescheduled due to Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton to Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Florida State Fairgrounds. 

Girl Scout Fest is open to girls of all ages and their families to enjoy hands-on and interactive activities while highlighting the theme of “Builders of Tomorrow.”

Throughout the day, girls will have many opportunities to earn Girl Scout badges and will walk away with multiple free event patches, while supplies last. 

Working with Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s program partners, Girl Scout Fest will showcase more than 30 hands-on activities.

Activities include HCA Florida Healthcare’s Robotic Arm Technology experience, making stress balls with Tampa General Hospital, and AI app building with Florida Education Fund. 

Girls can also earn Tampa General Hospital’s TampaWell Wellness Warrior patch, participate in a hockey match with Lightning Made Hockey, get ready for cookie rally with the Product team, and make homemade butter with Dairy Council of Florida. 

This year’s Girl Scout Fest will highlight its newest community patch partner, Ajax Paving, with activities related to civil engineering and a brand new “Paving the Way to Success patch.”

 

Want to go?

Girl Scout Fest takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Admission costs $5 per person, which includes all activities and this year’s exclusive Girl Scout Fest patch. 

Attendees can register in advance online or register at the event. Walk-ups are welcome. The Florida State Fairgrounds charges $10 per vehicle for parking. 

Food and drinks will be available for purchase at the concession stand and various food trucks.

 

Catholic Diocese of Saint Petersburg reports early damage

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The Vietnamese communities of Orlando, Venice and Miami have collected food and supplies that were given away from 3 to 6 p.m. Oct. 13 at St. Joseph Vietnamese Parish in Tampa. The parish and neighbors sustained serious damage during Hurricane Milton and the assistance was appreciated. Photos courtesy of Diocese of Saint Petersburg

SAINT PETERSBURG – The Diocese of Saint Petersburg offices sustained damage as high winds caused windows to shatter. 

The area surrounding the offices also suffered damage such as home and business flooding, trees down and property damage. 

Here are some of the initial reports of damage: 

  • St. Joseph Vietnamese Catholic Church in the Town and Country area sustained flooding and the property was not reachable Oct. 10.
  • The St. James Chapel at the Bethany Retreat Center, in Lutz flooded. The surrounding lakes overflowed onto the grounds and parking lot. There are many trees down and one has landed on the Youth Center.
  • St Joan of Arc Catholic Church in Spring Hill had damage to the church, including roof leaks.
  • St. Anthony Catholic Church in San Antonio had roof leaks and debris damage.
  • St Jerome Catholic Church in Largo had considerable roof damage including lost shingles and various roof leaks.

The Diocese of Saint Petersburg implemented an Employee Assistance Reimbursement Program to help employees recoup some disaster related costs related to Hurricane Helene. This will be a resource for Hurricane Milton survivors.

On the web: dosp.org/stormupdates

 

Business Spotlight: JC Audiology adds to hearing professional to staff 

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The staff at JC Audiology has grown larger as Dr. Judith L. Reese (second from left) added DJ Mitchell (middle) to her team. Photo courtesy of JC Audiology

LUTZ – Ever since Dr. Judith L. Reese opened JC Audiology in 2005, thousands of residents have come to the practice for their hearing needs. 

On average, the practice serves more than 160 hearing aid devices a month. That’s that’s about one device every hour and doesn’t include the dispensing of new hearing devices. 

Reese has added another hearing professional to her staff to help with the growing number of clients.

DJ Mitchell joined JC Audiology in September. Mitchell has been a licensed Hearing Aid Specialist since 2016 and has worked in clinical settings locally while dispensing hearing devices from all major manufacturers.

“DJ is the kind of hearing professional we’ve been looking for.” Reese said. “Now patients won’t need to wait to make appointments, and his expertise on new technology and how it improves quality of life will benefit our patients enormously.”

The region’s growing population, along with new published research about the link between hearing and cognitive health, have led to more people approaching the practice about hearing services.

As the number of patients continues to grow, Reese has worked to minimize supply chain challenges that affect the industry. Reese recently bolstered her relationships with suppliers by joining forces with Professional Hearing Group. This arrangement allows her to continue providing the best quality hearing solutions at more affordable prices for patients as well as offer faster service than industry standards.

 

Want to go?

JC Audiology is located within the North Fork Professional Center, 1519 Dale Mabry Hwy., Suite 105, Lutz. Visit ​​jc-audiology.com or call 813-949-1331 for details.

Stingrays ride out Hurricane Milton at MLB stadium

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Stingrays from the The Florida Aquarium spent time at Tropicana Field to stay safe during Hurricane Milton. Photos courtesy of The Florida Aquarium

TAMPA – Animal care experts with The Florida Aquarium moved its seven male cownose stingrays Oct. 14 from Tropicana Field back to the aquarium in downtown Tampa. 

Despite roof damage to the stadium caused by the storm, the stingrays remained safe in their 10,000-gallon, 35-foot habitat, located off right-center field.

“We’re pleased to report the cownose stingrays handled the storm well. With the Tampa Bay Rays support, our staff was able to provide onsite care over the past several days and today, we brought them safely back to the aquarium,” said Craig Johnson, The Florida Aquarium’s associate curator. “We will continue to monitor their health over the coming days, but currently, all are eating and behaving normally.”

The seven cownose stingrays are on public display residing in a separate area of The Florida Aquarium’s second floor Stingray Beach exhibit, which is sponsored by the Tampa Bay Rays. The cownose stingray is named for its distinctive head shape, resembling a cow’s nose, and is the same species found in the waters of Tampa Bay.

Every year, the stingrays spend the MLB season at Tropicana Field as part of the Tampa Bay Rays Touch Experience, the first-ever interactive marine exhibit at a professional sports venue.

Stingrays are an integral part of the Tampa Bay Rays identity, cherished by fans at Tropicana Field, where the team has featured the aquarium’s popular stingray touch tank since 2006. 

Adopt a Pet (10/16/24): ​​Blue will warm your heart

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Blue is a charming 7-year-old pup who brings joy wherever he goes! With his fluffy coat and striking appearance, he is hard to miss. This sweet boy loves nothing more than spending time with his furry friends at dog playgroups, where he shines as the gentle spirit among the pack. Despite being considered a senior pet, Blue has a playful heart and an endless supply of love to give. His unique eye abnormality adds to his character, making him even more special. Blue is a true testament to the beauty of embracing our differences, and he’s always ready for a cozy cuddle or a game of fetch. If you think you are the home that Blue has been waiting for, come see him at Pasco County Animal Services today!

If you would like to adopt Blue, 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 (10/16/24): Sam has a playful personality

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Sam is a beautiful 9-year-old black dog with striking pointed ears and a heart of gold. After overcoming a challenging past, she’s ready to embrace the future with open paws! Sam thrives in dog playgroups, especially when she can socialize with pups her size and larger – those are her favorite companions. Despite her tough beginnings, Sam is a sweet soul who loves to play and explore. She’s eager to find her forever home where she can continue to blossom. With her warm spirit and playful nature, Sam is sure to bring joy and laughter to anyone lucky enough to share their life with her. Make an appointment to meet her at Pasco County Animal Services today!

If you would like to adopt Sam, 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.

Business Digest (10/16/24): Florida Commerce activates damage survey

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Florida Commerce activates business damage assessment survey

TALLAHASSEE – Florida Commerce and the State Emergency Response Team activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey on Oct. 10 in response to Hurricane Milton. 

Business owners could self-report physical and economic damage caused by Hurricane Milton. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Milton recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses.

Businesses can complete the survey online by visiting FloridaDisaster.biz and selecting “Hurricane Milton” from the dropdown menu.

Call the private sector hotline at 850-815-4925, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or email  for assistance with a business.

 

North Tampa Bay Chamber happenings

LAND O LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will hold networking events for its members as well as welcome a new business to its roster over the next 10 days.

  • Members network during the Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Oct. 16 at San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union, 28909 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel.
  • Chamber President/CEO Hope Kennedy leads orientation for new members from 9 to 10 a.m. Oct. 23 at USF Federal Credit Union, 20610 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa. 
  • The chamber celebrates Blue Park Dental joining with a ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m. Oct. 24 at 5470 Post Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel. 
  • Members toast the end of another month during Final Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 25 at Florica Avenue Brewing co., 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, Wesley Chapel.

Visit northtampabaychamber.com for more information about these events and other chamber information.

 

Greater Pasco Chamber happenings

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will hold several networking events as well as celebrate new members over the next 10 days.

  • The chamber’s Professional Women in Business group convenes from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 16 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Admission costs $12 for members and $15 for others. Register in advance at greaterpasco.com.
  • Members trade company literature during Trinity Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 17 at Seven Springs Golf and Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., Trinity. Admission is free for members and $10 for others. Register in advance at greaterpasco.com.
  • Fyzical Therapy & Balance Centers – Hudson holds a third anniversary ribbon cutting from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 17 at 13826 Little Road, Hudson. 
  • Burkett Ace Hardware holds a ribbon cutting to celebrate its rebranding from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 18 at 4411 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey.
  • Members have the chance to meet and mingle during After-Hours Networking Mixer from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m. Oct. 23 at Ostara Floral & Events, 6751 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes.
  • Members trade company literature during New Port Richey/Port Richey Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 24 at VESH, 5811 Richey Drive, Port Richey.  Register in advance for this free event.
  • The Young Professionals Group convenes networking during Coffee Connections from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 25 at The Daily Vibe Coffee Co., 5738 Main St., New Port Richey. Register in advance for this free event. 

Visit greaterpasco.com for registration information for these events and chamber information.

 

Women-n-Charge meet for networking

LAND O’ LAKES – Women-n-Charge invites the community to meet new business contacts and learn about businesses that may become valuable referral partners.

The meeting starts at noon Oct. 23 at The Groves Golf & Country Club. Doors open for registration, networking and vendor shopping at 11:15 a.m. The event ends around 1:30 p.m.

Registration costs $25 for members and $29 for guests at women-n-charge.com/meetings/.  Pay by Oct. 21. RSVP is a must for participation. 

Meetings are usually held at noon on the fourth Wednesday of every month.

Email for details. 

 

Miller Joins EXIT Elite Realty 

TAMPA – Bernice Miller has joined EXIT Elite Realty’s growing team of real estate sales professionals. EXIT Elite Realty, located at 13911 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.., Suite #201, is a member of EXIT Southeast’s expanding network of independently owned and operated brokerages across the region.

 

Apply for unemployment assistance due to Hurricane Helene 

TALLAHASSEE – FloridaCommerce announced that Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available to businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Helene and are not eligible for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. 

Eligible Floridians whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Helene are encouraged to submit a claim at FloridaJobs.org.

This applies to Hillsborough and Pasco counties. The deadline to submit a claim for benefits is no later than Dec. 2, 2024. 

Disaster Unemployment Assistance is available for weeks of unemployment beginning Sept. 29, 2024, through March 29, 2025, as long as unemployment continues to be a result of the disaster in the designated-disaster areas. 

 

State Farm offers insurance tech tips

TAMPA – State Farm urged Florida residents to consider some insurance tech tips leading up to a storm.

The company urges residents to think of their smart phone or other electronic devices as important tools in their hurricane prep kit. Fully charge smart phones and electronic devices before a storm and consider charger/power banks for tech use after the storm.

State Farm also recommends: 

  • Create a home inventory with pictures, video and apps that can be useful should you have an insurance claim.
  • Download/install your insurance app for electronic access to important insurance documents and to receive electronic claim payment.
  • Report and take photos of storm damage as soon as possible using your smart phone to file a claim by calling your State Farm agent or 1-800-SFCLAIM, texting the word “CLAIM” to 62789 to receive a link, or submitting a claim directly on the app or at statefarm.com/claims.

 

State officer warns of danger associated with lithium-ion batteries 

TALLAHASSEE – State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis issued a warning to residents and first responders Oct. 4 about a fire hazard with lithium-ion batteries, electric vehicles, as well as hybrid and fuel cell vehicles developing in the wake of Hurricane Helene. 

The CFO’s Division of State Fire Marshal has confirmed 16 lithium-ion battery fires related to storm surge from Helene, with six of those fires associated with EVs. 

State fire officials believe these statistics to be conservative figures and are working with fire departments statewide to gather more data and determine any structural impacts related to EVs and lithium-battery fires following this storm.

 The State Fire Marshal Office is also coordinating with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection for guidance on proper lithium-ion battery disposal.

Visit floir.com for disposal tips. 

 

Hillsborough provides shade to pickleball courts

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Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County

TAMPA – Hillsborough County recently unveiled the first shade structure at any of its pickleball courts.

The steel and aluminum structure will provide welcomed relief from the sun and inclement weather at six pickleball courts at Northlakes Sports Complex, 2640 N. Lakeview Drive.

Pickleball has been the county’s fastest-growing sport in recent years, and the parks and recreation department has been rapidly adding courts to meet demand. 

The county now operates 40 pickleball courts and has additional tennis courts that have been restriped to also accommodate pickleball.

The project at Northlakes Sports Complex included renovating three tennis courts into six pickleball courts and building the 167-by-132-foot steel and aluminum shade structure, including lighting and bleacher seating.  

Chalk Talk (10/16/24): College sees enrollment growth

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Jesse Pisors and Lisa Richardson assist a student with their course schedule and class location on the first day of the fall semester. Photo courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College

PHSC experiencing fall enrollment growth

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College’s 2024 fall enrollment totals 9,891 students. While this number is not yet final, it represents an increase from fall 2023. 

This growth includes a steady increase in dual enrollment, as well as first-time in college students. 

The number of dual enrollment students served by Pasco-Hernando State College this fall has grown by 10% in just the last year, marking an increase in the number of high schoolers in Pasco and Hernando counties who are getting a head start on their higher education journey. 

Not only has enrollment increased, but applications to the college are up 31%, with admitted students increasing 13% since 2023. 

In addition, the percentage of high school seniors graduating in the top 10% of their class and then choosing Pasco-Hernando State College has grown over last year, indicating a strengthening preference for PHSC among high school graduates who are likely being recruited by multiple colleges and universities.

“With the populations of both Pasco and Hernando Counties growing, PHSC must continue to grow and evolve to meet our communities’ higher education needs within the scope of our mission and be the college of choice in our region,” President Jesse Pisors said. “It is exciting to see our enrollment continue to grow since we know that a PHSC education can lead to positive transformation in lives, families and communities.”

As enrollment increases, the PHSC Foundation has budgeted $1.4 million in funding for scholarships for the 2024-25 academic year, an 8% increase over the previous year.

“We are grateful to our donors who make it possible for so many students to receive much-needed financial support,” said Lisa Richardson, vice president of advancement, innovation and strategic partnerships. 

 

Program puts CEOs in schools

TAMPA – CEOs in Schools returns for its sixth year, offering Tampa Bay area executives a rare, immersive experience inside public schools.

More than 150 business leaders will spend Nov. 1 alongside school principals, teachers and students, sharing their knowledge while gaining firsthand insights into the critical work of shaping future leaders.

This initiative is a collaborative effort between Hillsborough Education Foundation, Vistra Communications and Hillsborough County Public Schools. 

“CEOs in Schools exemplifies the power of collaboration between business and education,” said Anna Corman, president and CEO of Hillsborough Education Foundation. “When CEOs and educators come together, they share valuable insights, forge lasting partnerships, and create new opportunities for student success. This program is about more than just a one-day experience—it’s about fostering relationships that will continue to benefit our schools, students, and community. We are excited to witness the collective impact of this year’s participants as they help shape the future of education in Hillsborough County.”

Business leaders interested in participating can reserve a school by visiting CEOsinSchools.com, but spots are filling fast.

 

Saint Leo University hosting open house

ST. LEO – Saint Leo University will welcome prospective students at its fall open house event on Oct. 26.

High school and transfer students are invited to visit campus and learn more about the innovative academic programs offered by the university.  

Students who attend the Fall Open House are eligible to receive a $250 open house microscholarship.

The open house is set for 8:30 a.m. to noon Oct. 26 at the campus, 33701 County Road 52, St. Leo. 

The open house will include a welcome session with university and academic leaders; campus tours including the Wellness Center; meeting current students and hearing about their experiences; learning about the university’s clubs and organizations; and a resource fair to meet faculty members and learn more about majors and degrees programs.

RSVPs are requested by Oct. 23. Register at saintleo.edu/student-experience/visit.

 

Staff/student achievements
• Brooke Heck, of Lutz, recently matriculated as a member of the Class of 2028 at Hamilton College in Clinton, N.Y. Heck, a graduate of The Hill School, was selected from a pool of 8,531 applicants from all 50 states and 139 countries and joins a community of approximately 2,000 undergraduate students.

• Pasco County Schools shared a reel on social media of Coach JD Baker ringing the bell at River Ridge High School in honor of his last radiation treatment for skin cancer. 

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