The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Fifth-graders run a city as BizTown celebrates 20 years

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Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Germann and staff mentored students as part of a partnership with Junior Achievement. Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement

 

Students learn what it’s like to run a city during Junior Achievement’s Muma BizTown. Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement

TAMPA – Nearly 120 fifth-graders ran an entire city recently within The Florida Aquarium.

Aquarium staff joined the students inside their storefront, stepping into their world of budgets, businesses and boardroom decisions. One student even served as CEO for the Day, shadowing Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Germann and gaining a firsthand look at what it takes to lead a major Tampa Bay organization.

The visit also marked a milestone for Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay: the 20th anniversary of BizTown (now officially Muma BizTown) and Partner Tribute Day, recognizing the aquarium for helping bring learning opportunities to life for students across the region.

After weeks of classroom preparation, students interviewed for jobs, got hired and ran their businesses like real professionals, marketing products, producing goods and making decisions that showed how leadership and financial choices shape a thriving community.

“By investing time, talent and leadership, students are connecting classroom learning to real-world careers,” said Richard George, president of Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay. “By showing up and engaging directly with kids, The Florida Aquarium is shaping the next generation of confident, capable leaders for the future of our community.”

Germann and 16 team members from the Aquarium worked alongside students in the aquarium’s BizTown storefront as part of the organization’s Day of Action.

“At The Florida Aquarium, we believe it’s our responsibility to make the world a better place. Whether we’re saving marine life or inspiring the next generation of leaders, investing in our youth through partnerships like Junior Achievement’s Muma BizTown makes a lasting difference,” Germann said. “Seeing these students confidently dive into professional roles, tackle real-world challenges and make meaningful decisions is energizing and a powerful reminder that anything is possible.”

The 20th anniversary also marks the official renaming to Muma BizTown, in honor of philanthropists Pam and Les Muma. Their decades of support, including a $5 million planned gift and $2 million to $3 million in operational funding, have impacted more than 300,000 students across Tampa Bay.

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Letter: How am I making a difference?

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While Black History Month is a time to honor the men and women who bravely and boldly paved the way for the African Americans who came after them, it’s also an opportunity to look to the future and ask yourself: How am I making a difference?  

Personally, I see the answer in my kids’ generosity and kindness towards others, but I’m one of the lucky ones who can see it in my work as well.

As a 15-year Duke Energy employee involved with the African American Association of Blacks in Energy, I have the privilege of sharing the energy industry with young people from all across Florida.

Every summer, my colleagues and I host Youth Energy Academies, hands-on programs designed to expose often underserved students to the inner workings of electric utilities while encouraging them to consider pursuing careers in STEM.

They participate in fun activities and demonstrations; engage in conversations with lineworkers, control room engineers and more; and tour towering facilities housing complex equipment that they’ve likely never seen or even heard of before.

The Youth Energy Academy concept was conceived by three Duke Energy employees in 2011 and has since grown from one location with a handful of students to seven sites (Jacksonville, Gainesville, Ocala, Orlando, St. Petersburg, Lake Wales and South Florida) with roughly 60 attendees each.

With several of these students coming back year after year and some even going on to succeed in the industry, including at Duke Energy, we know it’s helping create a better, brighter tomorrow for underrepresented groups in our communities.

Derick Farfan serves as large accounts manager for Duke Energy Florida.

 

SMARTstart to host GROW Pasco for entrepreneurs 

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Johnny Crowder, CEO of Cope Notes, gives the keynote during last year’s GROW Pasco. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

 

Deb Mazzaferro talks about elevating one’s sales game during a breakout session during last year’s GROW Pasco. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

LUTZ – The Pasco Economic Development Council is hosting the sixth annual GROW Pasco event through its SMARTstart program on March 19 at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center in San Antonio. 

This conference-style event, presented by Suncoast Credit Union, brings together the Pasco County business community to network and learn ways to help their businesses grow and thrive. 

The event offers 15 breakout sessions led by more than 30 business professionals. Speakers will cover topics such as artificial intelligence, funding options, marketing and community resources for businesses. 

“GROW Pasco is a must-attend event for all entrepreneurs,” said Beth Galic, of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association and a 2025 GROW Pasco attendee. “The wealth of information gained from the event is invaluable to business owners.”

The Pasco EDC SMARTstart entrepreneurship program, supported by Penny for Pasco, offers resources to help growing businesses achieve long-term success. The program delivers support in key areas, including access to funding, education, guidance, collaboration and workspace. 

SMARTstart serves 54 incubator members, representing a diverse range of industries, from food-based businesses operating out of the East Pasco Incubator Kitchen in Dade City to high-tech companies headquartered at SMARTstart at the Grove in Wesley Chapel. Members also have access to three Entrepreneur Centers throughout Pasco County.

“Through programs like SMARTstart and events like GROW Pasco, we’re investing directly in the people that are innovators and who help drive our economy,” said Jack Mariano, chair of the Pasco County Board of Commissioners. “Every new idea and business launched contributes to a stronger, more resilient Pasco County.” 

Taylor Doe, a former TEDx speaker and entrepreneur, is invested in community development, youth mentorship and fostering economic mobility for others. His presentation will explore the overlooked moments behind entrepreneurial success, showing how founders start, grow and scale while leveraging relationships, resources and experiences to create opportunity and build a stronger ecosystem. 

“What makes GROW Pasco truly special is the incredible cross-section of entrepreneurial journeys in one place, from those just starting out, to successful operators returning year after year, and everyone in between,” said Dan Mitchell, assistant vice president of entrepreneurship. “They inspire, lift each other up and make powerful connections, much like the ‘And Then Moments’ Taylor Doe will explore in his keynote, where one introduction or opportunity can change everything.” 

 

Want to go?

Visit pascoedc.com/events/details/grow-pasco to learn more about the GROW Pasco sessions and to register. The cost is $65 and includes breakfast, a keynote lunch presentation and access to various breakout sessions. Sponsorships are available and offer access to exhibit at the event.

Aquarium earns kudos for sea turtle conservation 

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Alyssa Fessett serves as a senior biologist at The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center. Photo courtesy of The Florida Aquarium

TAMPA – The Florida Aquarium was named a Lightning Community Hero during a recent Tampa Bay Lightning home game. 

The honor, presented by the Tampa Bay Lightning Foundation, includes a $50,000 grant designated to support the aquarium’s sea turtle rehabilitation efforts.

The award was accepted on behalf of staff veterinarian Lindsey Waxman and senior biologist Alyssa Fessett, who oversee the medical care for rescued sea turtles at the aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center.

“This recognition is a testament to the extraordinary dedication and expertise of our veterinary team, animal care staff, and volunteers who work tirelessly to give injured and sick sea turtles a second chance at life,” said Tim Binder, senior vice president of animal care and health.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North adds third surgical robot

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The newest St. Joseph’s Hospital-North robot is staged for a surgery. Photo courtesy of BayCare Health System

 

Robotic surgery team members Primo Gunabe, Julie Laplume, Hailee Olsen, Duane Kelloway, Louis Garcia and Ashley Lavine stand in front of the robot at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North. Photo courtesy of BayCare Health System

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North expanded its robotic surgery services with the addition of a third surgical robot in January to keep up with demand.

The three robots are guided by surgeons who are specially trained and experienced in robotic surgery. They performed 908 robotic surgeries last year. The hospital saw a 70% increase in robotic surgeries from 2021 to 2025. 

Robotic surgery uses precise incisions, allowing unhealthy tissue to be removed without affecting surrounding healthy tissue. Smaller incisions cause less trauma and pain for a patient’s body, decrease blood loss and infection risk, and allow for quicker recovery and shorter hospital stays. Many robotic surgeries are done as outpatient surgeries and patients are discharged on the same day as their surgery.

“St. Joseph’s Hospital-North is dedicated to offering the safest, most minimally invasive surgeries to our communities, ensuring better patient outcomes, faster recovery times and greater patient satisfaction,” said Jennifer Downing, the hospital’s surgical services director. “Our patients trust that they are receiving the most advanced care, supported by cutting-edge technology and delivered by surgical teams known for their experience and compassion.”

Dr. Jonathon Tsai guides the robot during procedures. Photo courtesy of BayCare Health System

Robotic surgery can provide St. Joseph’s Hospital-North surgeons with superior dexterity, enhanced vision and improved surgical access compared to conventional minimally invasive surgery or traditional open surgery. 

The surgeon-guided robot navigates a precise approach to areas that traditional surgical instruments are unable to reach.

The four interactive arms of the robot are over the patient on the operating table. The surgeon operates the robot from a console. The console has a high-resolution screen that projects 3-D images of the surgical site. 

The surgeon manually guides the surgical arms and instruments from the console using their hands and fingers. When the surgeon moves, the arms respond precisely to those movements in real time. The instruments work identically to the movement of a human arm, elbow and wrist, but with an enhanced range of motion.

Dr. Jonathon Tsai

“Having the opportunity to use the newest robotic surgical platform, the DV5, has been a profound privilege,” said Dr. Jonathon Tsai, a BayCare Medical Group and St. Joseph’s Hospital-North surgeon. “It has allowed me to leverage cutting-edge technology to deliver the highest standard of care to our patients at BayCare St. Joseph’s-North here in Lutz. Robotic surgery has truly shifted the surgical paradigm, offering a level of precision that significantly minimizes postoperative pain and shortens hospital stays. I look forward to the future features of the DV5 and the possibilities this updated platform holds for our field and community.”

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North is accredited as a Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery by the Surgical Review Corporation. The designation signifies the hospital’s robotic surgery services provide the highest quality of care.

News Briefs (02/18/26): Bilirakis holding senior forums

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Bilirakis to hold local senior forums

NEW PORT RICHEY – Congressman Gus Bilirakis will host three senior forums across Florida’s 12th Congressional District. 

Older adults can hear updates on recent tax policy changes, legislative developments benefiting seniors, community resources that support independent living and advancements in the fight against chronic illnesses.

“As tax-filing season begins, improvements to our tax code are already making a real difference for older Americans, including the new $6,000 additional tax exemption for seniors,” Bilirakis said. “I am proud to support reforms that put more money back in the pockets of those who earned it. I also believe that through education and awareness, we can help seniors live healthier, happier lives.”

Each forum will feature panelists sharing the latest research on treatments for cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Attendees will also learn about resources that help seniors live independently and with dignity. 

All seniors in Florida’s 12th District are encouraged to attend these forums: 

  • Citrus Springs: 1 p.m. Feb. 18 at Citrus Springs Community Center, 1570 W. Citrus Spring Blvd. 
  • Spring Hill: 10 a.m. Feb. 18 at Elks Lodge, 13383 County Line Road.
  • New Port Richey: 9 a.m. Feb. 19 at Kontos Event Center, 9426 Little Road.

Seniors may RSVP by calling 727-232-2921.

 

Woman’s Club planning Spring Flea Market 

LUTZ – GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club will hold its annual Spring Flea Market from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 6 and 7 at the Historic Old Lutz School at 18819 U.S. 41 N. 

Members will begin preparing for this large indoor and outdoor event in mid-February. The club welcomes donations from the community of antiques, art/décor items, crystal, china, household items, small appliances, kitchen wares, clothing, shoes, kids’ stuff, books, toys, tools and furniture, etc. 

All donations must be clean and in working order. Large appliances and sleeper sofas cannot be accepted. 

Proceeds from the sale will ultimately benefit the community through the club scholarship fund, the club’s many projects and contributions to and in support of local charitable groups and nonprofits. 

Community donation drop-off times are from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 23, Feb. 25, Feb. 27, Feb. 28, March 3 and March 5 as well as 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. March 4 at Old Lutz School. 

Call Jean at 813-431-5419 for more information or visit gfwclutzlandolakeswomansclub.org for details. 

 

Become a Master Gardener Volunteer in 2026

DADE CITY – The UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service is hosting a free preview session for anyone interested in applying for the 2026 Master Gardener Volunteer Training Class.

All applicants must attend a meet and greet at 10 a.m. March 7 to be considered for the program. Register in advance at mypas.co/MeetandGreet2026.

The program begins in June and includes weekly, in-person training for 12 consecutive weeks.

 

Quick Hits

  • The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club participated in a Day of Service on Jan. 27 at Angels Senior Living. Members organized a Bingo activity to bring joy and companionship to residents. Club members donated snacks, puzzle books and hygiene products, which were used as prizes and shared with the residents. 
  • The Zephyrhills Police Department has welcomed Officer Keenan Mullins to its ranks. He graduated from the Pasco-Hernando State College Police Academy in 2024. 

Health & Wellness (02/13/26): NHL Lightning visit patients 

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Tampa Bay Lightning players Ryan McDonagh and Jonas Johansson, along with mascot ThunderBug, visited patients in the pediatric unit and the pediatric emergency department at AdventHealth Tampa. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

 

The Lightning players signed autographs and took pictures with the children and their families. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

Lightning players, mascot brighten day for pediatric patients 

TAMPA – Tampa Bay Lightning players left the ice Feb. 4 to meet young patients at AdventHealth Tampa. 

Lightning defenseman Ryan McDonagh, goaltender Jonas Johansson and mascot ThunderBug visited the pediatric unit and the pediatric emergency department.

“You can see the kids’ faces when they get to see the players and see ThunderBug,” Johansson said. “They just light up the room, so it’s just amazing to give back to them.”

Players handed out stuffed bears wearing the Lightning’s white road jersey featuring the AdventHealth Patch with a Purpose. The players chatted with patients, signed autographs and took pictures with families.

Wesley Lamotta, the father of one of the pediatric patients, said it was cool for the team to meet the children. 

“It’s one of those moments that you’re not going to forget,” said Joel Funes, the father of another young patient. “It kind of makes you forget a little bit of what’s going on and brings some joy also to the room, so that’s amazing.”

AdventHealth Tampa and the Tampa Bay Lightning share a longstanding partnership focused on improving the health and well-being of the community. This visit is just one way the Lightning supports the Tampa Bay area.

 

Medical professionals conduct non-invasive screenings, which involve sticking small pads like band-aids to a person’s torso. ECG results are sent to cardiologists for review and parents receive results within 10 business days. Photo courtesy of Who We Play For

Nonprofit offers heart screenings to youth

ST, PETERSBURG – A Florida nonprofit, founded by parents and doctors, offered heart screenings to youth Feb. 7 in St. Petersburg.

The free five-minute electrocardiogram, or ECG, can spot a life-threatening heart defect that leads to sudden cardiac arrest.

Under a new Florida law, all new student athletes taking part in high school sports will need to receive a heart screening before their first tryout or practice of this coming school year. The law, the Second Chance Act, is designed to identify and prevent sudden cardiac arrest, which takes the lives of 23,000 youth each year. 

“It’s our honor to help protect families across Florida from the very worst tragedy imaginable – losing a child to a preventable condition,” said Evan Ernst, executive director of Who We Play For, the nonprofit that coordinated hundreds of heart screenings at events across Florida, including this one.

 

AdventHealth Dade City hosting Feel Whole Night

DADE CITY – AdventHealth Dade City is gearing up for Feel Whole Night, a family-friendly community night.

Activities include food trucks, face painting, giveaways, opportunities to see the surgical robot and meet staff, and free health screenings such as blood pressure, PSA test for men, glucose, cholesterol and A1C.

Feel Whole Night takes place from 5:30 to 8 p.m. March 5 in the main entrance of AdventHealth Dade City, 13100 Fort King Road, Dade City. Register in advance at AHDadeCity.com/Events or call 833-300-2371.

 

Get answers on Medicare in February

  1. 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: 

  • Medicare Basics: Feb. 19 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL-54, Wesley Chapel. 813-788-6375
  • Medicare Basics: Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. 813-929-1214
  • Medicare 101: Feb. 18, 11 a.m. at the Pinellas Park Library, 7770 52nd St. N., Pinellas Park. 727-369-0669
  • Medicare 101: Feb. 18 at 1 p.m. at the Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-893-1073
  • Medicare Fraud & Prevention Presentation: Feb. 20 at 1 p.m. at the Safety Harbor Public Library, 101 2nd St. N., Safety Harbor. 727-724-1525

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.

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding support 

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

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 an optional support person. The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. The support group will be held March 5 and 19, 10 to 11 a.m.
  • Understanding Breastfeeding: Provides information to the expectant mother and an optional 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. The class will be held March 5, 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Understanding Your Newborn: Provides information to the expectant mother and an optional 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 March 19, 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.

 

Business Digest (02/18/26): Lazar makes Young Guns & Legends List

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Crystal Lazar

Lazar included in Young Guns & Legends List

DADE CITY – Pro Builder has named Crystal Lazar, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity of East and Central Pasco County, to its Young Guns & Legends list. 

The annual recognition highlights leaders who are shaping the future of the housing industry and driving meaningful change in communities across the country.

Lazar has dedicated her career to advancing affordable housing in one of Florida’s fastest-growing and housing-challenged regions. She has led policy conversations, built partnerships with municipalities and championed equitable housing solutions that expand access to safe, stable and affordable homeownership.

Her work continues to strengthen the region’s housing landscape and create pathways to homeownership in partnership with families and individuals.

“I’ve seen firsthand how affordable homeownership transforms lives, not just for individuals, but for entire communities,” Lazar said. “This recognition reflects the work of our team and our partners who are committed to making homeownership possible alongside families who are often left out of the conversation.”

The feature is available at probuilder.com/young-guns-legends/article/55327520/found-young-guns-legends.

 

Bill puts more emphasis on tourism

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Vern Buchanan (FL-16) celebrated their introduction of the USMCA Travel and Tourism Resiliency Act.

The legislation aims to strengthen the travel and tourism sector during the upcoming joint review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement and position the United States to maximize global travel opportunities ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.  

The legislation ensures the travel and tourism industry has a formal voice in North American trade discussions. The bill directs the U.S. Trade Representative to advocate for the establishment of a Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group as part of the USMCA Joint Review. 

“Travel and tourism are major drivers of the U.S. economy, supporting millions of jobs, generating significant export revenue and strengthening communities across the country,” said Bilirakis, co-chair of the Congressional Travel and Tourism Caucus. “As we prepare to welcome the world for America’s 250th anniversary, establishing a dedicated Travel and Tourism Trade Working Group will provide a focused forum to address trade barriers, expand market access and enhance cooperation, ensuring this critical sector continues to contribute to economic growth, competitiveness, and resilience.”

 

Florida SBDC at USF opens registration for awards

TAMPA – Florida SBDC at USF will celebrate achievements in the small business community within the 10-county Tampa Bay region during the fourth annual Business Awards Luncheon.

The awards take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 13 at USF Marshall Center, 4103 USF Cedar Circle, Tampa. Register in advance at https://bit.ly/2026SBDC_BizAwards.

The event offers lunch, networking, exhibitor booths and a keynote address by Haddy CEO Jay Rogers. 

Suncoast Credit Union will serve as the presenting sponsor. Other sponsorship opportunities are available. 

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Coffee Social, Lunch N’ Learn, New Member Orientation and a grand opening. 

  • Members network during Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Feb. 18 at Amberlin Wiregrass Ranch, 28355 Sparrows Edge Circle, Wesley Chapel. 
  • Monica Haberlin Wahl, senior partner of Campbell & Company, talks about how to prepare for taxes, cash flow and retirement during Lunch N’ Learn from noon to 1:30 p.m. Feb. 19 at the chamber office, 28329 Paseo Drive, Suite 195, Wesley Chapel. Registration costs $15. Register in advance. 
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of Woodies Wash Shack from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 20 at 5618 Oakley Blvd., Wesley Chapel. 
  • Hope Kennedy, president and CEO, leads a New Member Orientation from 9 to 10 a.m. Feb. 25 at the chamber office, 28329 Paseo Drive, Suite 195, Wesley Chapel. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber will host the Greater Pasco Nonprofit Network,Trinity Business Exchange and programming for women. 

  • The Professional Women in Business meet for a networking lunch from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 18 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance. 
  • Members trade company literature during the Trinity Business Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 19 at Seven Springs Golf and Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., Trinity. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Food costs $13. Register in advance. 
  • The chamber hosts its Greater Pasco Nonprofit Network from 9 to 10 a.m. Feb. 24 at 4 & Co. Coworking Spaces, 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – The East Pasco Chamber will host Coffee & Networking and Core Connections. 

  • New and prospective members learn about chamber membership during Core Connections from 8 to 9 a.m. Feb. 19 at the Zephyrhills office, 38550 5th Ave., Zephyrhills. 
  • Members network during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Feb. 20 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.) and 8 to 9 a.m. Feb. 24 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.). 

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

 

PHSC boosts local economy by $563.2 million annually

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NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College generates an economic impact of $563.2 million annually for the region, according to a new report by Lightcast. 

The Association of Florida Colleges and the Helios Education Foundation released the Lightcast report, An Engine of Opportunity, in November 2025, showing that the Florida College System generates nearly $56.7 billion in annual economic impact, and that college activities support one out of every 24 jobs statewide. 

The report also shows students receive an average 21.2% rate of return from their educational studies. The investment pays off with a strong return through increased earnings and opening doors to stable careers.

In its individual report, PHSC’s impact includes operational spending, employee earnings, student expenditures and the long-term economic gains associated with PHSC alumni who remain in the area and contribute to a skilled, productive workforce. 

PHSC also supports 6,505 jobs locally. From the student perspective, they will receive a cumulative present value of $285.5 million in increased earnings over their working lives, which represents $7.10 in higher future earnings for every dollar they invest in their education. 

Taxpayers also benefit from PHSC with an average internal rate of return of 2.6%.

“Our students, alumni, faculty and staff strengthen the local workforce, elevate families and contribute to a more prosperous future for Pasco and Hernando counties,” President Eric Hall said. “As we expand programs that meet industry needs and create new pathways to opportunity, PHSC remains steadfast in its mission to fuel economic mobility, support community growth and ensure that our region continues to thrive.”

PHSC has more than 90 career program options across seven locations in Brooksville, Dade City, New Port Richey, Spring Hill and Wesley Chapel.

Data sources for the study include 2023-24 academic and financial reports from the college, industry and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and earnings and demographic data from the U.S. Census Bureau. 

On the web: myafc.org/impact and phsc.edu

 

Chalk Talk (02/18/26): Primrose School celebrates new location

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Primrose School staff and supporters hold a ribbon cutting for the new Wesley Chapel location. Photo courtesy of Primrose School

 

Alfreda Clark, director of West Lakes Early Learning Center, speaks during the event as Primrose School of Wesley Chapel owners Deanne and Rob Fitzpatrick stand by. Photo courtesy of Primrose School

Primrose School celebrates new location

WESLEY CHAPEL – Primrose School of Wesley Chapel celebrated the opening of its new location Jan. 22 on County Line Road. 

Deanne and Rob Fitzpatrick are the franchise owners of this location, which marks the second Primrose school in Wesley Chapel and the 15th in the Tampa metro area. The 23-classroom school will serve up to 215 children ages six weeks to five years as well as create about 30 jobs.

“Wesley Chapel is growing fast, and we’ve heard from so many families who are looking for an early learning environment that they can truly trust,” Rob said. “Deanne and I have spent decades investing in children and education, including homeschooling our own kids when strong options were hard to find, so opening this school feels deeply personal. We’re excited to bring the Balanced Learning curriculum to more local families, creating a safe, nurturing place where children build confidence, character and a genuine love of learning.”

The event included a community diaper drive that collected 750 diapers for West Lakes Early Learning Center. 

On the web: primroseschools.com/schools/wesley-chapel

 

PHSC converts program to degree  

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College announced the transition of its Surgical Technology certificate program to a full associate in science degree.

“The move to an AS degree ensures PHSC students receive a more comprehensive education that better supports their long-term success in the surgical technology field,” President Eric Hall said. 

The program combines classroom instruction, lab simulation and hands-on clinical experiences in local hospitals and surgical centers. Students are prepared to assist in surgical procedures as vital members of the operating room team.

“PHSC’s transition of the Surgical Technology program to an associate degree better prepares our graduates to meet our regional workforce needs and enhances educational opportunities for students,” said Billie Gabbard, dean of nursing and health programs.

The next cohort is scheduled to begin in August. Applications close on March 30.

On the web: phsc.edu/academics/programs/health/surgical-technology

 

Quick Hits

  • Jacquelyn C. Abanses, of Lutz, made the dean’s list at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Abanses, a senior majoring in business administration, had a grade point average of 3.6 or higher. 
  • Anna Adcock, of Lutz, and Keeton Burroughs, of Odessa, made the dean’s list at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
  • Drew Balentine, of Wesley Chapel, made the president’s list at Riverland Community College. Balentine had a grade point average of at least 3.75.
  • Robby S. Burton, of Lutz, made the dean’s list at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. Burton had a grade point average of 3.8 or higher.
  • Alexander Noti, of Odessa, made the dean’s list at Western New England University in Springfield, Massachusetts. Noti earned a grade point average of 3.30 or higher.