The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Health & Wellness (8/21/26): Hospital hosts Girl Scouts

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Girl Scout Troop 24402 from Spring Hill visits a St. Joseph’s Hospital-North operating room.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North hosts Girl Scouts

LUTZ – Girl Scout Troop 24402 from Spring Hill recently visited St. Joseph’s Hospital-North to learn about the use of robotics in surgery. 

The troop donned surgical gear, toured a St. Joseph’s Hospital-North operating room and got hands-on experience with a surgical robot. The classic table game, “Operation,” was used in their learning. 

Jennifer Downing, the hospital’s surgical services director, and surgical team members Lisa Lockhart, Louis Garcia and Lauren Hale led the demonstration. They described the various roles of team members assisting the surgeon during procedures.  

Marissa Davis, a representative from the robot’s manufacturer, also participated and provided insight. 

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North has three robots that are guided by specially-trained surgeons.

Robotic surgeries are minimally invasive and can provide patients with smaller incisions, less pain and faster recoveries. The robots provide St. Joseph’s Hospital-North surgeons with improved dexterity, vision and surgical access compared to conventional minimally invasive surgery or traditional open surgery.

 

New AdventHealth Polk Market President and CEO Mike Murrill recently met with local government and community leaders during a special event at AdventHealth Heart of Florida. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

Hospital leader tapped to lead Polk market

DAVENPORT – AdventHealth named veteran health care leader Mike Murrill president and CEO of AdventHealth Polk Market, which includes AdventHealth Heart of Florida and AdventHealth Lake Wales.

Murrill previously served as president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Connerton in Pasco County and provided executive oversight and support for AdventHealth Dade City. Since joining AdventHealth’s West Florida Division, he has led strategic growth initiatives, operational improvements and team member engagement efforts while advancing AdventHealth’s mission throughout the region.

Murrill succeeds Tim Clark, who has accepted a new role as regional CEO for the Tampa Bay Metro Region within AdventHealth’s West Florida Division. 

 

BayCare named among Companies That Care

CLEARWATER – Great Place To Work and PEOPLE magazine have named BayCare Health System to the 2026 PEOPLE Companies That Care list.

BayCare ranked No. 21 nationally, marking its sixth appearance on the list.

“This recognition belongs to BayCare’s team members, who are our greatest asset,” said Stephanie Conners, BayCare president and CEO. “Every day, they make a difference in the way they care for our patients, support one another and strengthen our communities.”

The rankings were based on employee survey responses and company data. Companies also submit essays about their efforts to support employees, communities and the environment. 

Organizations must be Great Place To Work Certified and have at least 10 U.S. employees to be considered.

 

BayCare names CFO for physician, ambulatory division

CLEARWATER – BayCare has named Erin Gerner the vice president and chief financial officer of its physician and ambulatory division.

Gerner is a certified public accountant with more than 20 years of health care finance experience. She previously spent eight years as chief financial officer of PeaceHealth Ambulatory Services in Vancouver, Washington.

She also spent 13 years at INTEGRIS Health in Oklahoma City.

“Erin brings years of health care industry experience, with expertise in the ambulatory care setting,” said Janice Polo, BayCare’s chief financial officer. “Her strong work ethic, collaborative approach and commitment to our values make her a great addition to the finance team.”

 

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North offers support for mothers

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North will offer free support groups and classes for mothers during September.

The programs focus on breastfeeding and newborn care and are open to participants regardless of where they delivered or plan to deliver their babies. Events will be held in classrooms at the hospital, 4211 Van Dyke Road.

The schedule includes:

  • Breastfeeding Support Group – Breastfeeding mothers can receive guidance from certified breastfeeding consultants and support from other mothers. Babies and an optional support person are welcome. The group meets Thursdays in September from 11 a.m. to noon.
  • Understanding Breastfeeding – Expectant mothers and an optional support person can learn about breastfeeding basics, skin-to-skin contact, returning to work and when to contact a health care provider or lactation consultant. The class meets Sept. 3 from 6 to 9 p.m.
  • Understanding Your Newborn – Expectant mothers and an optional support person can learn about feeding, diapering, bathing, signs of illness, cues and communication. The class meets Sept. 17 from 2 to 5 p.m.

 

Quick Hits

  • NeckWise Land O’ Lakes recorded 2,328 patient visits and 154 new patients during its first year, according to co-founder Dr. Matt Morris. The upper cervical chiropractic clinic serves patients from Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel, Lutz and the northern Tampa Bay area.
  • AdventHealth Heart of Florida collected more than 100 backpacks and more than 2,500 school-supply items for students at Loughman Oaks Elementary School in Davenport.

Developer opens Avilla Homes neighborhood in Land O’ Lakes

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Avilla Silver Palm is a new 180-home luxury leased community in Land O’ Lakes. Photo courtesy of NexMetro Communities

LAND O’ LAKES – NexMetro Communities has opened its third Avilla Homes community in the greater Tampa market. Avilla Silver Palm sits on 26 acres at 11334 Zion Narrows Trail. 

The 180-home leased community features mostly detached, single-level homes with private fenced backyards, front porches, optional garages and resort-style community amenities. 

“Opening Avilla Silver Palm is a meaningful milestone for our Florida platform,” said Jack Riddle, vice president of development for NexMetro’s Tampa Division. “The conventional apartment supply wave that pressured Pasco County in recent years is cresting, and the demand for a private, professionally managed, single-family rental experience remains as strong as ever.”

Avilla Silver Palm is a new 180-home luxury leased community in Land O’ Lakes. Photo courtesy of NexMetro Communities

Avilla Silver Palm joins two existing NexMetro communities in the broader Tampa Bay region: Avilla Suncoast in Odessa and Avilla Cypress Creek in Sun City Center. The three communities together reflect a geographic strategy spanning key growth corridors on both sides of Tampa, from Pasco County’s SR-52 corridor in the north to Hillsborough County’s southern suburbs.

NexMetro is expanding its presence in the Tampa market with an additional Avilla Homes community in development in Apollo Beach. Sitework is expected to begin in late 2026.

“Greater Tampa has proven itself as one of the most durable (build-to-rent) markets in the Sun Belt,” Riddle said, adding that the community’s differentiated offering appeals to diverse consumers from professional millennials, midlife renters in transition and baby boomers.

Avilla Silver Palm offers one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans designed for residents who want the experience of homeownership without a mortgage. 

Homes feature 10-foot ceilings, wood plank-style flooring and upscale interior finishes with washers and dryers. Lanais are available on selected home sites.

Community amenities include a resort-style pool, outdoor lounge and barbecue areas, dog park, walking paths, electric vehicle charging stations and on-site professional management. 

Visit AvillaSilverPalm.com for leasing details.

Tampa Bay Sun Foundation offers free youth soccer clinics

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Photo courtesy Tampa Bay Sun Foundation

TAMPA – The Tampa Bay Sun Foundation is launching a new season of free soccer clinics across Tampa Bay, thanks to support from Tampa Electric.

Kids can turn their enthusiasm for soccer into opportunities to get active, learn skills, and create friendships through 19 free programs that develop character on the field. TECO’s support also powers Gear Goals, a year-round effort to get quality soccer gear into the hands of kids who need it.

“Soccer gives kids something powerful. It’s a sense of belonging and a little more confidence every time they step on the field,” said Rachel Jolley, director of the Tampa Bay Sun Foundation. “Thanks to TECO’s support, we get to share that fantastic feeling with even more kids across Tampa Bay this year.”

Last season, in the first year with TECO’s support, Tampa Bay Sun Foundation clinics reached 1,292 children.

Through the spring of 2027, TECO’s sponsorship will support:

  • 10 Energize the Bay Youth Clinics: open to girls and boys ages 7 to 13 at fields throughout Tampa Bay, including Suncoast Credit Union Field.
  • 6 Shine Soccer Clinics: bringing the game to girls and boys at Title I schools and youth-focused community organizations.
  • 3 Rise Up Soccer Club School Sessions: four-week partnered program for girls at Title I schools, blending soccer education with leadership and life skills.
  • Gear Goals: ongoing, year-round program that pairs coaches, players and teams in Tampa Bay with the soccer gear they need to participate.
Photo courtesy Tampa Bay Sun Foundation

Every clinic includes a free Tampa Bay Sun Foundation x TECO jersey. Kids can collect three different jerseys by attending three different clinics.

Players from Tampa Bay Sun FC will take part in some of the clinics. All programs are led by U.S. Soccer Licensed Coaches with support from the foundation’s team of volunteers, the Sunshine Squad.

“At TECO, we believe in investing in the communities we serve and that means investing in the next generation,” said Stephanie Smith, vice president of state and regional affairs at TECO. “These programs give kids a place to build friendships, stay active and grow as people, whether it’s in the classroom or on the field.”

 

Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation to honor heroes

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Detective Aaron Smith, of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, will be recognized for his digital forensics work. Photo courtesy of Pasco County Sheriff’s Office

 

TAMPA – The Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation will recognize exceptional law enforcement officers Aug. 29 during its 11th annual gala. 

The event is open to the public for the first time, giving the community an opportunity to join law enforcement officials, business leaders and supporters in celebrating those who have made Tampa Bay safer.

Several officers will be honored: 

  • Detective Aaron Smith, of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office Digital Forensics Unit, will be recognized as Deputy of the Year. His expertise in digital forensics has helped solve complex criminal investigations, identify dozens of child exploitation victims and bring offenders to justice. His work was instrumental in helping the FBI dismantle a multi-state child exploitation case involving a Tampa Bay-area doctor.
  • The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Gun Intelligence Unit will be recognized for making some big busts. Photo courtesy of HCSO

    The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Strategic Gun Intelligence Unit won Task Force of the Year for its efforts to combat gun violence through intelligence-driven investigations and proactive enforcement. Since launching in 2025, the unit has arrested more than 100 violent offenders, seized 132 illegal firearms, recovered more than $100,000 in criminal proceeds and helped reduce gun violence across Hillsborough County.

  • Officer Andrew Billups, of the Clearwater Police Department, won Officer of the Year. In separate incidents, Billups rescued a missing 8-year-old autistic girl in danger of being swept into the Gulf. Weeks later, he talked a woman in crisis to safety from the Memorial Causeway Bridge.
  • Aby George, of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, earned Agent of the Year honors. George led an investigation that dismantled a major international child pornography ring operating across multiple countries. His work resulted in numerous arrests, the seizure of a website distributing child sexual abuse material including more than one million explicit videos and the identification of about 50 child victims.
  • Master Patrol Officer Chrisie Lopez, of the St. Petersburg Police Department, will be highlighted as Unsung Hero. From helping a suicidal teenager to de-escalating an armed man experiencing a mental health crisis, her ability to calmly defuse dangerous situations has saved lives while connecting people in crisis to the help they need.

The gala, which includes a cocktail reception and dinner, takes place Aug. 29 at Opal Sol Resort, 400 Coronado Drive, Clearwater. Visit ChiefsFoundation.org/AnnualGala to buy tickets or donate to the gala auction.

The gala supports the foundation’s mission of strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and the community. Since 2020, the foundation has invested more than $750,000 in officers’ advanced training as well as educational and police academy scholarships. 

 

Hillsborough to mail out Notice of Proposed Property Taxes

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TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office will begin mailing Truth in Millage Notices to property owners on Aug. 13.

The TRIM Notice is not a tax bill. It is a Notice of Proposed Property Taxes containing information about a property’s market value, assessed value, exemptions and proposed property taxes.

Property owners are encouraged to carefully review their TRIM Notices upon receipt. The notice reflects proposed tax rates and budgets established by the various taxing authorities. The reverse side includes the dates, times and locations of public budget hearings at which comments regarding proposed tax rates and budgets may be presented directly to the appropriate taxing authorities.

Questions concerning a property’s market value, assessed value, exemptions or classification should be directed to the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office. If any information appears incorrect or requires clarification, property owners are encouraged to contact the office promptly to request a review.

“Property values and tax information can raise questions, and our goal is to ensure property owners have accurate information and access to a team ready to assist them,” Property Appraiser Bob Henriquez said.  “If you have questions or believe information needs clarification, we encourage you to contact our office so we can review the details and help provide answers.”

Reviewing the TRIM Notice upon receipt provides an opportunity to address questions or concerns before property tax bills are issued in November.

Property owners may contact the Hillsborough County Property Appraiser’s Office at 813-272-6100 or visit any of its four locations in Downtown Tampa, Brandon, Plant City or Ruskin, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the week of Aug. 17, the Downtown Tampa office will offer extended office hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

PHSC’s FBLA chapter closes out a record year 

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NEW PORT RICHEY – ​​Pasco-Hernando State College’s Future Business Leaders of America chapter has been building a high profile on the state and national scene through its performances at leadership conferences this year. 

At the Florida FBLA State Leadership Conference, PHSC’s program was named Florida Chapter of the Year. 

Two students were also honored for their service as outgoing state officers: Krista Knowles, former vice president of membership, and Emmalise Feliciano, former vice president of finance. 

Two members were also offered state officer positions for the coming year: Krista Knowles as state president and Teanna Hill as vice president of membership.

Megan Flavin was named Christopher Heider Scholar Honoree.

Several PHSC students performed well at state competition: 

  • First place: State of Chapter – Emmalise Feliciano and Krista Knowles
  • First place: Future Business Leader Executive – Krista Knowles
  • First place: Public Speaking – Kyla Flood
  • First place: Digital Design & Communications Case Competition – Kaylee Smith
  • First place: Marketing & Sales Case Competition – Bryce Widman, David Hennes and John Lias
  • Second place: Customer Service – Josbel Marcano-Reyes
  • Fourth place: Hospitality Management Case Competition – Elizabeth Capitoni & Michael Widman
  • Fourth place: Foundations of Computer Science – Amanda Campos
  • Fourth place: Parliamentary Procedures – Krista Knowles
  • Fourth place: Business Presentation – Emmalise Feliciano
  • Fourth place: Business Communications – Kyla Flood
  • Fourth place: State of Chapter – Teanna Hill

Competitive wins weren’t the only measure of the chapter’s year. FBLA members organized a donation drive for the Bobcat Food Pantry, an on-campus resource that provides food and essential items to students in need.

PHSC’s FBLA students carried the momentum onto the national stage, placing among the best chapters in the country, including a third-place finish for Largest State Chapter in Florida.

Students placed in several other categories: 

  • Second place: Digital Design and Communications Case Competition – Kaylee Smith
  • Second place: Stock Market Game – John Lias, Elizabeth Capitoni, Mark Calderon, Tyrese Brown and Jacob Majorana
  • Fifth place: Outstanding Chapter Award – North Campus
  • Sixth place: State of Chapter – Emmalise Feliciano & Krista Knowles
  • Ninth place: Foundations of Computer Science – Amanda Campos
  • Ninth place: Future Business Leader Executive – Krista Knowles
  • Top 12: State of Chapter, Pasco County – Teanna Hill

PHSC members also swept a full slate of Excellence Award distinctions, recognizing outstanding competitive individual testing performance:

  • Gold Distinction – Emmalise Feliciano and Krista Knowles
  • Silver Distinction – Kyla Flood
  • Bronze Distinction – Josbel Marcano-Reyes

 

Cronin wins Economic Development Professional of the Year

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Bill Cronin’s contributions to economic development in Pasco County and Florida have culminated with earning the Eunice Sullivan Economic Development Professional of the Year award. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

PASCO COUNTY – The Florida Economic Development Council has awarded Bill Cronin the Eunice Sullivan Economic Development Professional of the Year award for his work over the past 30 years. 

Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council, described the award as an incredible honor. 

“While this award may have my name on it, I see it as a reflection of the extraordinary team we have at the Pasco Economic Development Council,” Cronin said. “Their talent, commitment and passion for making a difference in our community are behind everything we accomplish.”

Cronin has a long career in economic development spanning over 30 years in Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas. 

He worked 10 years with Enterprise Florida, now FloridaCommerce, specializing in international trade and business development.

Since he began leading the Pasco EDC in 2016, the organization has assisted companies through business expansions and relocations resulting in more than $1.8 billion in capital investment and 11,600 new jobs.

Under Cronin’s leadership, the Pasco EDC has been recognized as one of 92 economic development organizations accredited by the International Economic Development Council.

Beth Cicchetti, executive director of the Florida Economic Development Council, said the award recognizes people whose careers have shaped Florida’s economic future through leadership, innovation and service – qualities Cronin embodies. 

“His ability to build partnerships, inspire collaboration and deliver transformative results has strengthened not only Pasco County but the entire economic development profession in Florida,” Cicchetti said. “Bill’s leadership has left an enduring legacy, and we are proud to honor him as the 2026 recipient of this distinguished award.”

 

Recent winners

The award was first given in 1985 and was renamed in 1991 to honor Eunice Sullivan for her dedication and commitment to the economic development profession and the Florida Economic Development Council. 

Cronin joins other economic development leaders who have also received the award, including:

  • 2025 Keith Norden, Team Volusia
  • 2024 Jeff Hendry, North Florida Economic Development Partnership
  • 2023 Suzanne Christman, CEcD, MEDP, Pinellas County Economic Development
  • 2022 Kelly Smallridge, BDB of Palm Beach County
  • 2021 Marc Hoenstine, CEcD, Duke Energy
  • 2019 Crystal Stiles, Florida Power & Light
  • 2018 Cathy Chambers, JAXUSA Partnership
  • 2017 Crystal Sircy, Orlando Economic Partnership
  • 2016 Bob Swindell, Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance
  • 2015 Allen Cherry, Madison County Economic Development

“I am also deeply humbled to join the distinguished list of past Eunice Sullivan Award recipients – economic development professionals whom I have respected and admired throughout my career,” Cronin said. “To now have my name among theirs is truly one of the great honors of my professional journey.”

 

PulteGroup opens dog park to honor Wesley Chapel family

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The memory of beloved pets Fudge and Rusty will be preserved at a dog park in the Vida’s Way community. A ribbon cutting was held Aug. 1 to celebrate the opening. Photo courtesy of PulteGroup
Photo courtesy of PulteGroup

WESLEY CHAPEL – PulteGroup’s Vida’s Way community held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 1 to celebrate the grand opening of Fudge & Rusty’s Dog Park. 

The park is named for beloved pets of the DePue family, whose ranch once occupied the land. The community itself honors Vida Barnes DePue, who ran the ranch solo for over 50 years after her husband’s death in 1954. 

The DePue family transferred 350 acres of the ranch to Pulte Homes, which developed Vida’s Way with a deliberate focus on preserving that history.

From the dog park’s name to the community’s street names and overall design, Pulte built the neighborhood to reflect the land’s ranching roots with an emphasis on nature, gathering spaces and outdoor life. 

DePue Ranch remains an active cattle operation today, and residents turned out for the celebration, which marked the start of many years of dog park visits and community gatherings to come.

Learn more about Vida’s Way at pulte.com/homes/florida/tampa/wesley-chapel/vidas-way-211210.

Photo courtesy of PulteGroup

 

 

What’s Happening (Aug. 12-18)

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Aug. 12

Handwork Circle

People bring in sewing and crocheting projects to work on during Handwork Circle at Land O’ Lakes Library. All Makerspace programs require closed-toe shoes and a completed waiver. 813-929-1214

10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Baby Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library offers a Baby Storytime, a lap-sit program suitable for babies up to age 1 and their caregivers. 813-929-1214

10:15-10:35 or 11:15-11:35 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Baby Storytime

Wesley Chapel Library hosts Baby Storytime, a lap-sit program for babies up to age 1 and a caregiver. 352-518-5064

10:30-11 a.m.; 27531 Mystic Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Chair Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library offers a chair yoga class. Call 813-780-0064 to register.

10:30-11:30 or 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Chess Club

New River Library hosts Chess Master-rated coach Rick McKnight for lessons and play. There are two sections for grades 4-12: Intermediate/Advanced (3:30-4:30 p.m.) and Beginners (4:30-5:30 p.m.). Registration required. 813-788-6375

3:30-5:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Mat Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library invites adults to join instructor Michelle Mack for a mat yoga session. Bring a mat. 813-780-0064

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Conversation Corner

Trained tutors help adults improve English reading, writing and speaking skills at Wesley Chapel Library. Designed for ESL learners and those wanting to build literacy skills. 352-518-5064

6-7:30 p.m.; 27531 Mystic Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Conversation Corner

Improve reading, writing and speaking English with tutor support at Land O’ Lakes Library. 813-929-1214

6-7:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Aug. 13

Woodworking

Land O’ Lakes Library invites adults (or youth 9+ with guardian) to use Makerspace tools for approved projects. Bring your own plans and materials. Closed-toe shoes and completed Foundry Waiver & Safety Playbook forms required. Registration required. 813-929-1214

9-10:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m.-noon, noon-1:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Tech Help

Hugh Embry Library staff are available for help with computer or mobile device basics. Bring your own device or use a public computer. Registration required. 352-567-3576

10-11 a.m. or 11 a.m.-noon; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

813 Day

The Tampa Museum of Art offers $8.13 off admission for 813 Day. tampamuseum.org

10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa

 

Storytime Fun!

Zephyrhills Public Library invites toddlers and preschoolers for an interactive storytime filled with reading, singing and dancing. 813-780-0064

10-10:20 a.m. or 10:30-10:50 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Preschool Storytime

Children ages 3-5 listen to stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. 727-815-7126

10:15-11 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Preschool Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library invites ages 3-5 and their caregivers for stories and songs. 813-929-1214

10:15-10:45 a.m. or 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Mat Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library invites adults to join instructor Michelle Mack for a mat yoga session. Bring a mat. 813-780-0064

4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Art on the House

The Tampa Museum of Art hosts Art on the House on Thursdays. Admission is pay-as-you-will. tampamuseum.org

4-8 p.m.; 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa

 

Yarn for a Cause

New River Library invites yarn enthusiasts to a weekly gathering to share projects, tips and conversation. 813-788-6375

6-7 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Republican Club

Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells Jr. speaks at the next Wesley Chapel Republican Club meeting at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church. All are welcome. Coffee and dessert will be available.

6:30 p.m.; 2017 Reigler Road, Land O’Lakes

 

Aug. 14

Toddler Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library presents stories and songs for toddlers ages 1-2 and caregivers. 813-929-1214

9:45-10:05 a.m., 10:15-10:35 a.m. and 11:15-11:35 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Sensory Event

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts Rocking in Our School Shoes, a sensory program with crafts. 813-780-0064

10-11 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Conversation Corner

Hugh Embry Library hosts trained tutors to help adults improve English reading, writing and speaking skills. Designed for ESL learners and English speakers wanting to strengthen literacy skills. 352-567-3576

10-11:30 a.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Toddler Storytime

Children and their caregivers listen to stories during Toddler Storytime at Wesley Chapel Library. 352-518-5064

10:30-11 or 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 27531 Mystic Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Bingo

Zephyrhills Public Library invites the community to play free bingo games and win prizes. Space is limited; reservations recommended. Call 813-780-0064 to register. 

3-4 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Stage Reading

Powerstories Theatre presents a reading of “Conscience” at Stageworks Theatre. Tickets cost $37 for adults, $32 for seniors and $22 for students. powerstories.com

7:30 p.m.; 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa

 

Theater

The Village Players present “The Not So True Story of Cinderella Part 2” at James McCabe Theatre. General admission costs $23 with discounts for seniors, students and military. The show continues through Aug. 22. thevillageplayersvalrico.com

8 p.m.; 506 N. 5th St., Valrico

 

Aug. 15

Lit Club

The Lit Club discusses “And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. 727-815-7126

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Read to Rover

Hugh Embry Library invites young readers and their families to read with therapy dogs from the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. 352-567-3576

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Stage Reading

Powerstories Theatre presents a reading of “Conscience” at Stageworks Theatre. Tickets cost $37 for adults, $32 for seniors and $22 for students. powerstories.com

1 p.m.; 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa

 

Theater

The Village Players present “The Not So True Story of Cinderella Part 2” at James McCabe Theatre. General admission costs $23 with discounts for seniors, students and military. The show continues through Aug. 22. thevillageplayersvalrico.com

8 p.m.; 506 N. 5th St., Valrico

 

Aug. 16

Stage Reading

Powerstories Theatre presents a reading of “Conscience” at Stageworks Theatre. Tickets cost $37 for adults, $32 for seniors and $22 for students. powerstories.com

3 p.m.; 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa

 

Theater

The Village Players present “The Not So True Story of Cinderella Part 2” at James McCabe Theatre. General admission costs $23 with discounts for seniors, students and military. The show continues through Aug. 22. thevillageplayersvalrico.com

3 p.m.; 506 N. 5th St., Valrico

 

Aug. 17

Democratic Club

The East Pasco Democratic Club meets at the Genesis Center and on Zoom. They’ll discuss the midterm elections. Contact for details. All friends of the Democratic Party are welcome. Refreshments are provided. Come early to socialize. 

6:30 p.m.; 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills

 

Aug. 18

Medicare/Medicaid

Adults get help applying for the QMB state buy-in program to help pay for Medicare Part B premium at Zephyrhills Public Library. Help is also available for applying for Medicaid and food stamps. Call José Rodríguez at 813-420-3013 for details. 

9 a.m.-3 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

PulseFactor Cardio

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts PulseFactor Cardio, a program to improve heart health. Register in advance. 813-780-0064

9:30-10:30 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Toddler Storytime

Children ages 1-3 listen to stories and songs during Toddler Storytime at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Get a ticket at the service desk. 727-815-7126

10:10-10:40 or 10:50-11:20 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Preschool Storytime

Children ages 3-5 listen to stories during Preschool Storytime at Wesley Chapel Library. 352-518-5064

10:30-11 or 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 27531 Mystic Oak Blvd., Wesley Chapel

 

Arts & Crafts

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts Arts & Crafts with Denise & Optum Clinic. The program is for older adults. Call 813-780-0064 to register. 

Noon-2 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Yarn for More

Hugh Embry Library hosts a weekly gathering of yarn enthusiasts to share projects, tips and conversation. 352-567-3576

12:15-1:45 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Dungeons & Dragons

Teens and tweens play Dungeons & Dragons at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. 727-815-7126

3-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

D&D Club

Teens and adults play Dungeons & Dragons at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 to register. 

3-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Hurricane Preparedness

Adults learn how to prepare for hurricanes at New River Library. 813-788-6375

6-7 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

Starkey appointed to national committees

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Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey (File)

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey has been selected to serve on three committees at the National Association of Counties.

The appointments include:

  • Chair of the Community, Economic and Workforce Development Policy Steering Committee
  • Vice chair of the Large Urban County Caucus
  • Member of the International Economic Development Innovation Council

“I’m thrilled to be appointed to these important committees, which will help find solutions for issues that affect the citizens of Pasco County,” Starkey said. “I’m committed to representing Pasco on a national level and using examples from our community to help other counties around Florida and the country.”

NACo’s mission is to strengthen America’s counties and create healthy, safe and vibrant counties across the country. It serves nearly 40,000 county elected officials and 3.6 million county employees.

“You were chosen because of your unwavering commitment and exemplary dedication to NACo,” NACo President George Dunlap said in a letter to Starkey. “Our greatest strength lies in the engagement of our members, and your active participation and leadership are vital to ensuring that we remain the united voice of America’s counties.”