The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Mom creates one-stop summer camp expo 

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Camp directors and program leaders from Hillsborough and Pasco counties will be on-site so families can meet them in person, ask questions and explore local opportunities available for kids during the summer. Photo courtesy of Family-Friendly Tampa Bay

 

Family-Friendly Tampa Bay helps families discover events, summer camps, activities and local attractions throughout the Tampa Bay area. Photo courtesy of Family-Friendly Tampa Bay

WESLEY CHAPEL – Miriam Cook, founder of Family-Friendly Tampa Bay, is bringing camps from Tampa and Pasco County to one place at the 9th Annual Family Fun Fest & Summer Camp Expo.

The free community event helps parents discover summer camps, activities and family resources while enjoying a day of hands-on fun and entertainment from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 14 at The Shops at Wiregrass. 

Cook understands how challenging it can be for families to find the right summer opportunities for their children. The expo was created to simplify that process by bringing a variety of local camps and programs together in one place where parents and kids can meet program leaders face-to-face.

“As a teacher and a mom, I know parents want meaningful experiences for their kids, but finding the right summer camps can take hours of research,” Cook said. “This event makes it easier for families to explore options, ask questions, and discover opportunities that help kids learn, grow and have fun.”

The expo connects families with summer programs including STEM, sports, performing arts programs; specialty programs; day camps; and educational enrichment opportunities for children from preschool through the teen years. 

The expo transforms The Shops at Wiregrass into a community festival featuring interactive activity zones, live entertainment and hands-on experiences designed to keep kids engaged while parents explore summer camp options.

Through curated guides, community events and partnerships with local businesses and organizations, Family-Friendly Tampa Bay connects parents with meaningful experiences that encourage learning, play and family time together. Photo courtesy of Family-Friendly Tampa Bay

Event highlights include:

  • Free mad science show (10:45 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.)
  • Free foam bubble party (11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m.) featuring Blaise Ryndes’ Sphere’s Foam Bubble Show (as seen on “America’s Got Talent”)
  • Kids karaoke stage
  • Princess and character meet-and-greets
  • Balloon artist and face painting
  • Easter treat trail scavenger hunt at exhibitor booths
  • Hands-on crafts and cookie-decorating
  • Toddler play area and lawn games
  • Kids sports fun zone
  • Giveaways and special summer camp discounts

Families who register in advance will have the chance to win $250 toward a summer camp, and the first 300 registered families will receive a free Kids Expo Bag while supplies last.

BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel is a presenting sponsor of the expo. Portions of event proceeds will support Uresteem, a nonprofit that empowers children through leadership and self-esteem programs.

 

Pasco deputies trade fire with suspect in fatal shooting

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NEW PORT RICHEY – The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating a fatal shooting on March 9 that led to the suspect exchanging gunfire with Pasco Sheriff’s Office deputies.

Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco said a man and woman were clearing land around noon at the intersection of Davista Avenue and Sawtell Street when they were confronted by 32-year-old Aaron Rodriguez. The male victim called 911, telling dispatch they were being harassed by Rodriguez.

“While he’s on the phone with 911, the male victim is shot,” Nocco said. “He collapses at the intersection.”

Nocco said Rodriguez also shot the woman. She ran down the street to get away from him. 

Nocco described this as a horrific scene, not only for the victims but also for the dispatchers who heard everything unfold during the call. 

Deputies arrived at the scene and began rendering aid to the victims. The man was pronounced dead at the scene. 

Three deputies, including one with a canine partner, approached the suspect who was in a nearby garage.

“The suspect has a gun,” Nocco said. “They start ordering the suspect to drop the gun. He does not drop the gun. Shots start being fired.”

The canine handler was shot. The other two deputies continued moving toward the suspect. The suspect was hit in the exchange.

Nocco was proud of how the deputies handled themselves during the tense scene. 

“We tell people if you put your hand on something hot, like a boiling pot, your hand is going to burn,” Nocco said. “If you play with glass, it’s going to cut. If you point a gun at a Pasco deputy, you’re going to get shot. And that’s what happened today. There’s no apologies. There’s no sympathy. He got shot. I feel horrible for the victims.”

The deputy, woman and suspect were all taken to the hospital. The deputy did not have life-threatening injuries. His canine partner was also OK. Nocco said he wasn’t aware of the status of Rodriguez or the woman when he spoke to reporters about the incident. 

The FDLE investigation is standard protocol with deputy-involved shootings. The deputies who fired the shots have been placed on paid administrative leave, in keeping with policy. 

The sheriff’s office described the shooting as an isolated incident, assuring the public there was no safety threat. 

“It’s an absolute horrible incident that occurred,” Nocco said. “It all happened because the suspect did not, one, just be a normal person and allow people to go about their business and clean a lot – their own lot. Second, when you get orders to drop a gun from a Pasco deputy, you drop that gun. It’s that simple.”

Edwards built jewelry brand that shines

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XMTX Collections is a fast-growing, Florida-based jewelry brand known for elevated, non-tarnish pieces designed for real life. Photo courtesy of LocalShops1

LUTZ – Irine Edwards founded XMTX Collections after her battle with breast cancer with the intention to offer stylish, durable jewelry that women can confidently wear every day. 

With a strong local presence and a loyal customer following, XMTX Collections has become a trusted go-to for effortless, everyday luxury. XMTX Collections is located at 23110 State Road 54, #516, Lutz.

Irine-Edwards

“Being a woman-owned business in my local community means everything to me because it’s rooted in connection and authenticity,” Edwards said. “I’ve had the privilege of meeting so many incredible women through this journey, and it’s deeply rewarding to build something that not only supports my family but also inspires others to go after their goals. To me, it’s about showing up, supporting fellow small businesses, and pouring back into the same community that continues to support XMTX Collections.”

Edwards is grateful for the support the community has shown XMTX Collections. The brand was built from the ground up through local markets, word of mouth and relationships. 

“Tampa Bay isn’t just where my business operates,” Edwards said. “It’s the community that helped bring my vision to life, and I’m proud to continue growing here for years to come.”

LocalShops1 is highlighting Edwards and her shop in honor of Women’s History Month. 

“We wanted to bring awareness to our members during Women’s History Month and recognize Irine and her commitment to providing jewelry and being a part of our thriving local business community,” LocalShops1 founder Ester Venouziou said. 

On the web: xmtxcollections.com or localshops1.com

 

Health & Wellness (03/11/26): Surgeons provide 17 free replacements

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Team members at AdventHealth Tampa, AdventHealth Carrollwood and Operation Walk USA teamed up to provide free surgeries to patients who couldn’t otherwise afford them. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

Surgeons provide 17 free hip, knee replacements

TAMPA – AdventHealth Tampa and AdventHealth Carrollwood partnered with Florida Orthopaedic Institute and Pioneer Medical Foundation to provide 17 free hip and knee replacement surgeries for uninsured Tampa Bay residents through Operation Walk USA.

Surgeries were completed over two days by volunteer orthopedic surgeons and care teams. Eight procedures were performed at AdventHealth Tampa, and nine at AdventHealth Carrollwood. More than 200 AdventHealth team members volunteered across both locations.

Operation Walk USA provides free total hip and knee replacements to eligible uninsured adults and has delivered more than $24.6 million in donated care to over 900 patients nationwide.

On the web: operationwalkusa.org

 

Recognize the signs of a heart attack

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The American College of Emergency Physicians is urging the public to recognize the warning signs of a heart attack and seek immediate medical care.

“Minutes matter when someone’s heart is in trouble,” said L. Anthony Cirillo, president of ACEP. “If something doesn’t feel right, it’s time to seek emergency care right away.”

A heart attack may not always start suddenly with crushing chest pain. Some people experience uncomfortable pressure, tightness or fullness in the left or center of the chest that lasts for longer than a few minutes or goes away and comes back. Pain or discomfort can also spread to the shoulders, neck, jaw, arms or back.

Symptoms may include chest pressure or discomfort, shortness of breath, nausea, lightheadedness, cold sweats and unexplained fatigue. Women may experience different symptoms, including back, neck or jaw pain.

Anyone experiencing symptoms should call 911 rather than drive themselves to the hospital, officials said.

 

Get answers on Medicare in March

  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 101: March 18, 11 a.m. at Pinellas Park Library, 7770 52nd St. N., Pinellas Park. 727-369-0669
  • Medicare 101: March 18, 1 p.m. at Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-893-1073
  • Medicare Basics: March 19, 10:30 a.m. at New River Library, 34043 FL 54, Wesley Chapel. 813-788-6375
  • Medicare Basics: March 21, 10 a.m. at Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. 813-929-1214
  • Medicare Basics: March 26, 10:30 a.m. at 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.

 

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 19, 10 to 11 a.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. You can also register by phone by calling 855-314-8352 and pressing the number “2” at the prompt.

 

Business Digest (03/11/26): Chipotle Mexican Grill opens in Lutz

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Chipotle Mexican Grill customers have the convenience of picking up digital orders through the “Chipotlane.” Photo courtesy of Chipotle

Chipotle Mexican Grill opens in Lutz

LUTZ – Chipotle Mexican Grill opened a new location March 2 at 17995 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz, featuring the area’s first Chipotlane drive-thru pick-up lane for digital orders.

The restaurant is open daily from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Customers can try the limited-time Chicken al Pastor and the brand’s new high-protein menu, featuring items with 15 to 81 grams of protein, including the Double High Protein Bowl and High Protein Cup.

College students can enroll in Chipotle U Rewards for bonus points, and guests can order the Build-Your-Own Chipotle option for groups of four to six.

Chipotle is hiring about 30 employees for the Lutz location. Details are available at chipotle.com/careers.

 

Mission BBQ Town & Country offers Smokehouse Signatures items such as Baby Back Ribs, Chicken, Salmon and Smoked Cheeseburger as well as Brisket, Pulled Pork, Pulled Chicken and Turkey sandwiches. Photo courtesy of Liberty Manor for Veterans

Mission BBQ supports veterans nonprofit

TAMPA – Mission BBQ Town & Country recently provided meals to veterans served by Liberty Manor for Veterans. 

Mission BBQ supports veterans and first responders through service, fundraising and food donations. The company reports that more than $47 million has been donated to national and local charitable organizations through community support.

Liberty Manor for Veterans promotes the developmental and social needs of veterans by providing transitional and supported housing to help them achieve self-sufficiency. It is located at 10015 N. Ninth St., Tampa.

Contact Connie Lindsay at 813-900-9422 or visit libertymanor.org to help. 

 

Family business reaches 50-year milestone

TAMPA – Alvarez Plumbing & Air Conditioning is marking its 50th anniversary in 2026, celebrating five decades of service in the Tampa Bay region.

The family-owned company provides 24-hour plumbing and air conditioning services, including emergency support, and operates with more than 120 employees and 60 vehicles.

“Reaching 50 years is a testament to the trust Tampa Bay has placed in our team and to the standards we’ve protected as a family business,” CEO Marcus Reyes said. 

Founder Al Alvarez, 81, remains active in the company, with a third generation now involved in operations. Anniversary plans include recognizing customers and highlighting ongoing community involvement.

On the web: alvarezplumbing.com

 

Ginger Health owner appears on podcast

LAND O’ LAKES – Ginger Hoang Le, of Ginger Health Occupational Physical Therapy, is the latest guest on the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s “Chamber Chatter Podcast.”

Le, who is celebrating 24 years at the clinic, told Chamber President and CEO Hope Kennedy about their whole-person approach as well as the services offered. Le also shared lessons about entrepreneurship. 

“Make a lot of connections,” Le told Kennedy. “Hope has been great. She’s always very encouraging. The chamber is great. I would welcome you guys to join the chamber. Find out organizations or groups of women or men or mixed that are in your area and they want to know you personally because once they meet you, then they can trust that you’re going to do a good job for them.”

Watch the episode on YouTube.com.

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Coffee Social and grand opening celebrations. 

  • Members attend an open house at Ginger Health & Grace Adaptive Driving from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 12 at 27553 Cashford Circle, Suite 102, Wesley Chapel. The open house includes a tour and demo. Register in advance.  
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of Optimum Health & Wellness with a ribbon cutting from 4 to 6 p.m. March 12 at 23031 Tabak Lane, Land O’ Lakes. Register in advance.
  • Members mingle during Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. March 18 at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, 2600 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Wesley Chapel.

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber will host a Veterans Roundtable, Land O’ Lakes Business Exchange, Membership Breakfast and programming for women and youth professionals. 

  • The chamber hosts a Veterans Roundtable from 8 to 9:30 a.m. March 11 at Patriot Stogies, 6153 Massachusetts Ave., New Port Richey. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Register in advance. 
  • Members trade company literature during the Land O’ Lakes Business Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 12 at SpringHill Suites Tampa  Parkway, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Lunch costs $14. Register in advance. 
  • Joseph D. Resnick, president and CEO of Premier Community Healthcare, speaks at the Greater Pasco Chamber Membership Breakfast from 8:45 to 10 a.m. March 13 at SpringHill Suites Tampa Suncoast Parkway, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members pay $25. Others pay $30. Register in advance.
  • The Young Professionals Group holds its latest social from 6 to 8 p.m. March 13 at Dented Keg Ale Works, 5500 Main St., Suite 104, New Port Richey. Register in advance.
  • Lauren Miceli, of Pasco EDC, and Jennie Yingling, of Spinner Law Firm, discuss the Pasco County Commission on the Status of Women during the Networking Lunch from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 18 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. 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.

  • Members network during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. March 13 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.) and from 8 to 9 a.m. March 17 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.). Register in advance.

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

 

AdventHealth Zephyrhills marks construction milestone

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AdventHealth held a topping out ceremony March 5 for a medical office building on its Zephyrhills hospital campus. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth
Health and construction leaders signed the final structural beam for the future medical office building going up at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

ZEPHYRHILLS – Progress on the AdventHealth Zephyrhills campus is leading to expanded, high-quality health care closer to home for Zephyrhills residents.

AdventHealth and construction leaders signed the final beam during a topping out ceremony for a new medical office building. The milestone celebrates the placement of the building’s final structural beam and continued work on a facility designed to improve access to care.

The nearly 35,000-square-foot medical office building will provide additional space for new and employed physicians. Once completed, the facility will house primary care and multiple specialty physician offices, including cardiology, gastroenterology, general surgery and urology.

“We’re excited to see this project take shape here on our Zephyrhills hospital campus. It’s a reminder of our long-term commitment to the Zephyrhills community,” said Mike Murrill, president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills. “For 40 years, AdventHealth Zephyrhills has grown alongside this community, and a new medical office building ensures we’re prepared to meet the needs of our neighbors for decades to come.”

The project responds to the area’s rapid growth, with Pasco County projecting a 40% population increase by 2045. Much of that growth is expected to occur in the South and Central Market Areas, increasing demand for accessible, comprehensive health care services.

The new medical office building is part of a broader series of investments AdventHealth has made across Pasco County in recent years: 

  • Late last year, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel opened one floor of its expanded three-story North Wing bringing the hospital’s licensed beds from 169 to 193 and two-story South Courtyard Infill. The new floors allow for future growth.
  • AdventHealth Zephyrhills is also getting ready to celebrate the one-year anniversary of AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER, which has 12 patient beds and brought in more than two dozen jobs to the area.
  • AdventHealth Sports Med and Rehab Zephyrhills is also close to celebrating its first year serving the rehabilitation needs of the East Pasco community, from injury recovery to post-surgical therapy.

AdventHealth is partnering with HuntonBrady Architects on the design of the new medical office building, with Robins & Morton serving as the construction partner.

“We’re proud to celebrate this important milestone alongside our longtime partner AdventHealth,” said Todd Watson, Robins & Morton Florida division manager. “Topping out this new medical office building is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of everyone involved. We look forward to delivering a facility that will expand access to high-quality health care and serve the needs of our community for years to come.”

 

Pigz in Z’Hills celebrates top BBQ cooks

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ZEPHYRHILLS – The Greater East Pasco Chamber of Commerce announced cooking competition winners from the 2026 Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival on Feb. 28 in downtown Zephyrhills. 

The festival serves as one of East Pasco County’s signature events, blending competition, community, live music and family fun. Proceeds support the Greater East Pasco Chamber of Commerce and its foundation, which awards scholarships annually to Pasco County students.

 

Kidz Grillin’ Contest 

The Kidz Grillin’ Contest, sponsored by Bahr’s Propane Gas & A/C, Chick-fil-A Zephyrhills, BayCare Wesley Chapel and Sonny’s BBQ, showcased the talent of young grillers from across the community.

Cassidy Hartz won first place, followed by Adalynn Bristow in second and Bentley Douglas in third. 

The Kidz Grillin’ Contest remains one of the most beloved traditions of Pigz in Z’Hills, giving young chefs ages 5 to 15 a safe, hands-on opportunity to showcase their creativity and confidence on the grill.

 

Backyard BBQ Competition 

This year marked the return of competitive cooking to the festival with an official Backyard BBQ Competition sanctioned by the Florida Barbecue Association. The competition drew teams from across Central Florida and the Tampa Bay region, along with strong local representation in Zephyrhills.

Powered by Smoke was crowned the Grand Champion. 

Parrothead Pokers received honors as Reserve Grand Champion.

Detailed scores are available through the Florida Barbecue Association at fba39.wildapricot.org/page-18115.

 

People’s Choice 

The People’s Choice contest, sponsored by Effie Mae’s Kitchen, added an interactive element to the competition, giving attendees the opportunity to sample backyard barbecue and crown their festival favorite.

Mike’s C7 BBQ, of Zephyrhills, won People’s Choice. 

 

Community Support

The Greater East Pasco Chamber of Commerce recognized the support of Zephyrhills Florida Spring Water, which donated bottles and gallons of water for the Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival.

The contribution helped keep competitors, volunteers and attendees hydrated throughout the day while supporting the mission of the Greater East Pasco Chamber Foundation.

 

Krav Maga Martial Arts expanding into new space

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Krav Maga Martial Arts is opening into the former All About Kids consignment shop storefront. Photo courtesy of Krav Maga Martial Arts

LUTZ – After 25 years of forging “Blackbelt Leaders” in the community, Krav Maga Martial Arts is moving just a few doors down but miles ahead in technology and design. 

Krav Maga Martial Arts announced the upcoming grand re-opening of its Lutz headquarters, located at 1900 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in the former All About Kids children’s consignment shop storefront. 

The relocation marks a massive upgrade for the school, expanding into a 3,300-square-foot facility specifically engineered to house the next generation of martial arts excellence. 

“For over two decades, our mission at KMMA has been to develop confident, competent Blackbelt Leaders – students who are prepared to survive, thrive and lead in the real world,” said Grandmaster Stephen J. Del Castillo, founder and master instructor. “Now we are stepping into the next chapter. The next 25 years will be built in a new, state-of-the-art training facility – one that is designed to elevate the experience and inspire the next generation.”  

The new headquarters will feature: 

  • Double Training Areas: Two distinct spaces to allow for more classes and specialized instruction. 
  • Premium Swain/Zebra Flooring: Industry-leading mat systems for maximum safety and performance. 
  • Full Professional Mirror Wall: To provide students with the visual feedback necessary for technical mastery. 
  • State-of-the-Art Design: A sleek, modern aesthetic that reflects the school’s professional standards. 

The grand re-opening is scheduled for March 30. In celebration of the new facility, Krav Maga Martial Arts continues to offer its signature no-cost, no-obligation two-week trial at both the new Lutz headquarters and the Port Richey location. 

Since its inception, Krav Maga Martial Arts has focused on self-defense and on character development. The school builds confidence and competence in students.