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Local News

Students board RV for health care simulations

July 28, 2026 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pasco-Hernando State College offered a Health Care Discovery Summer Camp that allowed youth to explore a 31-foot RV that doubled as a mobile simulator. Photo courtesy of PHSC
Pasco-Hernando State College offered a Health Care Discovery Summer Camp that allowed youth to explore a 31-foot RV that doubled as a mobile simulator. Photo courtesy of PHSC

WESLEY CHAPEL – Children attending Health Care Discovery Summer Camp boarded a 31-foot RV on July 16 at Pasco-Hernando State College to engage in interactive clinical simulations. 

Twenty-eight campers, ages 11 to 18, rotated through the unit in small groups. They explored health care training equipment, learned basic patient care concepts and participated in a medical escape room-style activity designed to build critical thinking and collaboration skills during real-world health care scenarios.

“The best part is watching students work together,” said MJ Schwartz, a clinical specialist at Empath Health. “They explore health care concepts, ask thoughtful questions and begin to understand what’s happening with a patient and why. These experiences spark real curiosity and interest in health care careers.”

The Mobile Simulation RV belongs to Empath Health, a not-for-profit health network focused on supporting chronic, post-acute, end-of-life and grief care needs across Florida. 

Pasco-Hernando State College offered the summer camp on its Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch.

“By engaging students with active patient-care challenges and modern clinical tools, we aim to clarify complex medical environments,” said Ginnie Whitaker, strategic initiatives director at the college. “We want to ignite their curiosity and build the foundational skills they will need to become the health care leaders of tomorrow.”

Pasco-Hernando State College offered a Health Care Discovery Summer Camp that allowed youth to explore a 31-foot RV that doubled as a mobile simulator. Photo courtesy of PHSC

 

Business Digest: Ajax Paving Industries supports Crisis Center

July 28, 2026 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Ajax Paving Industries supports Crisis Center

TAMPA – Ajax Paving Industries of Florida has become a corporate partner of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay with a $15,000 contribution.

The funding will support services that include suicide prevention, trauma therapy, substance recovery and programs for children and families facing behavioral health challenges.

“We are deeply grateful to Ajax for their support and for their commitment to addressing the stigma surrounding mental health – both in society and within the construction industry,” said Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. 

“Their partnership helps us deliver essential, 24/7 services to our community.”

Ajax Paving has made mental health a priority within the construction industry through employee training, including programs facilitated by the center. The company also created Ajax Warriors, a group of employees trained to support colleagues experiencing personal struggles.

Ajax President Vince Hafeli is a national advocate and speaker on behavioral health, workplace safety and suicide awareness.

“We are proud to partner with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay in support of their mission to provide care and resources to those in need,” said Scott Pittman, executive vice president of marketing and government affairs. “At Ajax Paving, we are committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, especially within the construction industry, and ensuring our support contributes to healthier, stronger communities.”

 

PulteGroup buys 136 acres in Wesley Chapel

WESLEY CHAPEL – PulteGroup has acquired 136 acres for The Enclave at King Lake, a new residential community in Wesley Chapel.

Pulte Homes plans to build 299 homesites, including 192 townhomes and 107 single-family homes. Development is expected to begin in August, with home sales starting in late 2027.

Townhomes will range from 1,451 to 1,879 square feet, while single-family homes will range from 1,707 to 3,162 square feet.

Planned amenities include a resort-style pool, cabana, walking trails, neighborhood parks and open space.

The community will be located near the 114-acre Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital campus under construction.

On the web: pulte.com

 

Suncoast brings back ‘Year of No Payments’

TAMPA – Suncoast Credit Union has brought back its Year of No Payments Giveaway for a second year.

Three members will win one year of rent, mortgage or car payments.

New members who join Suncoast online or at a branch through Dec. 31 will receive one entry. Existing members can enter by downloading and logging into the new Suncoast Mobile App.

The promotion includes three entry periods: July 1 to Aug. 31, Sept. 1 to Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 to Dec. 31. Entries carry over into subsequent drawing periods.

Suncoast awarded two members a year of payments in 2025. Wesley Chapel resident Jose Garcia chose a year of mortgage payments as his prize.

Visit Suncoast.com/NoPayments for details.

 

GTE Financial makes Forbes’ list

TAMPA – GTE Financial has been recognized by Forbes as one of Florida’s Best-In-State Credit Unions for 2026, earning the No. 10 spot in the publication’s annual rankings. 

GTE Financial was one of just 11 Florida credit unions recognized this year.

The annual rankings, developed by Forbes in partnership with market research firm Statista, are based on feedback from thousands of consumers who evaluated financial institutions on trust, customer service, digital services, financial advice and fee transparency. 

“This recognition reflects the trust our members place in us every day,” said Manny Aguilar, senior vice president and chief experience officer of GTE Financial. “At GTE Financial, we’re committed to helping our members achieve financial success by delivering exceptional service, innovative solutions and a personalized banking experience.”

 

Andy’s Frozen Custard offers a Key Lime Pie Concrete through Sept. 8. Photo courtesy of Andy’s Frozen Custard

Andy’s Frozen Custard adds summer flavors

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Andy’s Frozen Custard has added Peach Cobbler and Key Lime Pie treats to its menu through Sept. 8.

The new Peach Cobbler features vanilla frozen custard blended with fresh peaches and topped with cobbler crumble. It is available as a sundae or concrete.

The returning Key Lime Pie Concrete features a slice of key lime pie blended with vanilla frozen custard. A Key Lime quart is also available.

Andy’s is also celebrating its 40th anniversary by offering a limited-edition collectible cup with the purchase of any medium Concrete or Jackhammer while supplies last.

Andy’s Frozen Custard has locations in Lutz (19081 Wingshooter Way) and Odessa (13402 Pine Gap Spur).

On the web: eatandys.com

 

Business Digest: McDonald’s manager earns trip to World Cup

July 27, 2026 By justin

Brice Bulambo got to take photos with the FIFA World Cup Trophy and McDonald’s U.S. President and CEO Chris Kempczinski during his first trip to New York City. Photo courtesy of McDonald’s

McDonald’s gives general manager a trip to World Cup

TAMPA – McDonald’s provided the general manager of its South Dale Mabry location with a VIP FIFA World Cup experience.

Brice Bulambo’s four-day experience included a stay at the Kimpton hotel, a boat ride around Manhattan, a trip to the One World Observatory and an opportunity to meet with McDonald’s employees around the world, including President and CEO Chris Kempczinski. He also got to take a photo with the FIFA World Cup Trophy.

“The energy in the stadium was unforgettable, but the absolute best part was getting to see and take a picture with the championship trophy – before the winning team even got their hands on it,” Bulambo said. “Meeting the international McDonald’s community made me realize how much the company genuinely cares about our customers and us.”

Bulambo was one of 45 employees worldwide to earn the honor. 

 

Pasco County hosts career fair

DADE CITY – Pasco County Government will hold an in-person career fair from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. July 30 at Pasco County Extension Services, 36702 State Road 52.

Managers will conduct on-the-spot interviews. Applicants should bring several copies of their resumes.

Openings include correctional officer trainees, utility and public works positions, 911 dispatchers, parks and recreation positions, firefighters, paramedics, engineers, GoPasco bus drivers and field inspectors.

On the web: MyPasco.net

 

Pasco Florida’s Sports Coast earns national recognition

PASCO COUNTY – Florida’s Sport Coast announced accreditation through the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program.

The accreditation encompasses nearly 100 industry standards, ranging from leadership and accountability to visitor services, technology, communications and long-term planning.

“It’s proof of the standards we uphold and the future we’re building for Pasco County,” said Adam Thomas, executive director for Florida’s Sport Coast. “This certificate highlights our team’s dedication and the strong collaboration across Pasco County government. Together, we’ve built a culture of accountability and partnership that ensures every visitor, event organizer and community partner receives truly world-class service.”

On the web: flsportscoast.com

 

Self-Employment Workshop Program accepting applications

TAMPA – Hillsborough County’s Self-Employment Workshop Program has opened applications for fall classes. The deadline to apply is Aug. 20.  

The series of classes is designed to teach budding entrepreneurs best practices to launch and run a successful small business. The program is offered at no cost.  

Each participant will receive in-depth business training and a dedicated small business consultant to help along the way.  

Evening classes will be held online through Hillsborough County’s Entrepreneur Services. This fall schedule includes: 

  • Small Business Idea Camp – Sept. 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29 (eight sessions)
  • Understanding Personal and Business Credit – Oct. 1
  • Starting Your Business – Oct. 6
  • Financing and Banking – Oct. 8
  • Marketing 101 – Oct. 13
  • Bookkeeping Basics – Oct. 15
  • Business Plan Series – Oct. 20, 27, Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24 (six sessions)

Applicants must provide proof their household income doesn’t exceed the 2025 qualifying limit based on family size: 1, $31,300; 2, $42,300; 3, $53,300; 4, $64,300; and 5, $75,300.

 

Whataburger fans can order a Summer Peach Whatafresher or a Peaches & Cream Shake. Photo courtesy of Whataburger

Whataburger adds peach drinks for summer

SAN ANTONIO – Whataburger has added two limited-time peach drinks to its menu.

The Summer Peach Whatafresher is made with freeze-dried fruit and served over ice. 

The Peaches & Cream Shake combines peach flavor with vanilla.

Whataburger has locations in Brandon (1426 W. Brandon Blvd.), Largo (10150 Ulmerton Road) and Lutz (25340 Sierra Center Blvd.).

On the web: Whataburger.com

 

Moving company invests in training  

July 27, 2026 By Jenna Soules

2 College Brothers Moving & Storage is putting in the time and money to train staff before they begin moving people’s valuables. Photo courtesy of 2 College Brothers Moving & Storage

CLEARWATER – As thousands of new residents continue to relocate to the Tampa Bay region each year, demand for professional moving services is growing alongside the area’s population. 

With nearly 124,000 additional residents projected to move to the region by 2026, according to the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council, 2 College Brothers Moving & Storage is investing in a new training facility and expanded office space at its Clearwater headquarters to help meet the area’s growing workforce and moving needs.

Slated for completion in late July, the new facility will have a grand opening in fall 2026. It will feature a fully furnished one-bedroom model home inside the company’s office. 

Rather than learning solely in customers’ homes, new movers will be able to practice real-world moving techniques in a controlled environment before handling a family’s belongings.

“The first time a new employee experiences a home move should never be the first time they handle someone’s heirloom furniture or baby grand piano,” said Wade Swikle, CEO of 2 College Brothers Moving & Storage. “Customers deserve a team that has already developed those skills before they arrive.”

Swikle said the concept addresses one of the moving industry’s biggest areas of growth, which is that right now new employees at moving companies nationwide gain their first hands-on experience while moving customers’ most valuable possessions. Inside the new interactive training apartment, employees will learn how to properly protect furniture, navigate tight spaces, safeguard floors and walls, and work together as a professional moving team before entering a customer’s home.

The realistic setting allows trainers to coach employees through common moving scenarios without the pressure or risk of working inside a customer’s residence.

In addition to the hands-on training facility, Swikle co-founded Titan Up Training, an online education platform that includes “2 College Brothers University.” Titan Up Training is designed to help moving companies develop more skilled, consistent teams while enhancing their branding and procedures.

The platform also teaches other companies nationwide professional moving techniques to avoid injuries or damaging customer items, as well as courses on employee conduct, professionalism, moving terms, safety and procedures.

As more people relocate to the Tampa Bay region, Swikle believes companies must invest not only in trucks and equipment, but also in the people responsible for serving customers.

“We’re growing because Tampa Bay is growing,” Swikle said. “As more families choose to make this area home, it’s our responsibility to make sure we have well-trained professionals ready to serve them.”

On the web: 2CollegeBrothers.com

Moffitt Cancer Center shows off proton therapy system

July 27, 2026 By Staff Reports

The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Proton Center at Speros features the ProteusONE proton therapy system Photo courtesy of Moffitt Cancer Center

LAND O’ LAKES – The Moffitt Cancer Center dedicated the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Proton Center at Speros on July 23 during a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The center features the ProteusONE proton therapy system, which delivers precise radiation treatment that targets tumors while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissue. 

Kosj Yamoah, chair of Moffitt’s radiation oncology department, addresses those gthered to celebrate the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Proton Center at Speros. Photo courtesy of Moffitt Cancer Center

“We are bringing the most advanced technology, the ProteusONE, in the Tampa Bay area,” said Kosj Yamoah, chair of Moffitt’s radiation oncology department. “We’re going to be able to treat people within Florida and across the world with cutting-edge technology that is destined to treat cancer effectively”

The center was made possible through a $15 million gift from Best Buy founder Dick Schulze and the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation.

Josh Carpenter, president of Speros, said the campus’s infrastructure and talent position it as a leader in America’s developing biotech economy. 

Health and community leaders celebrate Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Proton Center at Speros with a ribbon cutting. Photo courtesy of Moffitt Cancer Center

 

Life’s Treasures Thrift Store plans Dade City location

July 26, 2026 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Colliers helped facilitate a lease for Chapters Health System to bring a Life’s Treasures Thrift Store location to Dade City. Photo courtesy of Colliers

DADE CITY – Chapters Health System, a nonprofit hospice organization, has leased a 10,000-square-foot retail space at 12709 U.S. 301 in Dade City to serve as a new Life’s Treasures Thrift Store location.

The thrift store is moving from Zephyrhills to provide a more modernized shopping experience.

The relocation is part of a strategic update of the health system’s thrift stores that benefit the charity grief and hospice services of HPH Hospice and LifePath Hospice, affiliates of Chapters Health System. The organization also recently leased a 10,000-square-foot thrift store location planned for The Villages.

Ginger Gelsheimer and Juan Vega, of Colliers, represented Chapters Health System, in both transactions. Brandon Eggleston, of RMC Property Group, represented the landlord, RMC Morningside LLC, in the Dade City transaction.

“We were pleased to deliver a successful transaction for one of several new resale boutique locations for Chapters Health System this year,” said Gelsheimer, vice president of Colliers. “It was a smooth transaction working with RMC’s local team, and Chapters is confident that the new location will generate a lot of customer activity.”

The new Dade City location will offer increased visibility at the intersection of U.S. 301 and Morningside Drive in one of Pasco County’s fastest-growing corridors. The property was already configured to meet the tenant’s needs.

Life’s Treasures Thrift Store is part of Chapters Health Foundation and offers a wide selection of clothing, furniture, antiques, books, jewelry, collectibles, home décor and other gently used merchandise. There are five locations in the Tampa Bay area, including Brandon, Carrollwood, Tampa and New Port Richey.

The foundation supports community programs and helps patients and their families who cannot afford hospice, home health or palliative medicine services. It raises more than $5.2 million annually to supports patients and families.

Chapters Health System expects the Dade City location of Life’s Treasures Thrift Store to open by October.

Pasco Clerk & Comptroller’s Office breaks down finances

July 26, 2026 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

DADE CITY – Understanding how taxpayer dollars are managed should not be difficult. 

That’s why the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office publishes Common Cents, the office’s Popular Annual Financial Report, also known as the PAFR.

The annual report gives Pasco County residents a clear, easy-to-read overview of the county’s financial activity. Common Cents is designed to help citizens better understand where public dollars come from, where they go and how they support county services.

“Have you ever wondered where your tax dollars are going and what county leaders are doing with those dollars?” asked Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Pasco County clerk and comptroller. “Common Cents puts that information right at your fingertips in a way that is accessible, transparent and easy to understand.”

Alvarez-Sowles’ office plays a vital role in Pasco County’s financial operations, handling financial transactions that range from purchasing to payroll. The office also prepares several financial reports each year to provide accountability and oversight for county government.

Common Cents takes information from more detailed financial documents and presents it in a simplified format for the public. The report includes helpful charts, summaries and explanations that allow residents to review the county’s financial picture without needing a background in accounting or government finance.

“Common Cents gives residents a simplified look at the county’s finances without requiring them to sort through more technical financial documents,” said Matt Lazar, financial services director. “It is designed to be informative, transparent and easy to follow.”

The Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office has been recognized for 42 consecutive years for excellence in financial reporting.

“We are proud of the work our team does to ensure the public has access to accurate financial information,” Alvarez-Sowles said. “Common Cents is one more way we help citizens stay informed about their county government.”

View Common Cents at https://www.pascoclerk.com/Archive.aspx?ADID=2569.

 

Castro selected for Leadership Tampa 

July 26, 2026 By Staff Reports

TAMPA – Chief Deputy Tax Collector Jennifer Castro has been selected to join the Tampa Bay Chamber’s Leadership Tampa Class of 2027, according to the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office.

Castro is one of just 50 individuals chosen from hundreds of applicants for the 56th class of the program, presented in partnership with the Tampa Bay Business Journal.

Castro serves as second-in-command and chief of staff to elected Tax Collector Nancy C. Millan, providing strategic and operational leadership across an organization of more than 400 employees serving over 1 million customers annually at 10 service locations. The office oversees a $54 million budget, close to $4 billion in annual collections, and more than 2.5 million annual transactions.

“I am so proud to see Jennifer selected for this incredible program,” Millan said. “Her leadership has been instrumental in helping our office reach new levels of service and innovation, and I know she will represent HCTC well. I’m honored to support her on this journey and excited to see the impact she will continue to make, both within our organization and across our community.”

Castro brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in government administration, human resources and operations to her role. Since joining the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office in 2001, she has held positions spanning customer service, executive administration, strategic planning, organizational development and human resources, having served under two elected tax collectors before rising to her current position in 2021. 

Her tenure has included leading the office to Florida Governor’s Sterling Award recognition in 2008, 2011 and 2025, and helping expand public access to services through initiatives such as the opening of the MacDill Air Force Base satellite office, the Downtown Express Center, Student Saturdays and the office’s mobile services programs.

Leadership Tampa participants join a network of local leaders spanning more than 50 years of program alumni. 

“I am honored to be selected as part of the Leadership Tampa Class of 2027,” Castro said. “I look forward to learning alongside such an accomplished group of leaders from across our region, broadening my perspective, and building relationships that will help me better serve the residents of Hillsborough County.”

 

In Good Company

Jennifer Castro is among 50 business leaders accepted into the Leadership Tampa Class of 2007. Here are a few more leaders: 

  • Cecile Bare, senior vice president at Private Relationship Manager at The Bank of Tampa
  • Nellie Fidura, vice president of guest and member relations at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  • Lauren Watts, applications director at BayCare Health System
  • Kim Northup Wright, president and CEO of Senior Connection Center Inc.
  • Fred Hicks, CEO of The Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County
  • Taylor Johnston, president and CEO of USF Institute of Applied Engineering

Learn more at tampabaychamber.com.

Monin to invest $100M+ in Zephyrhills

July 23, 2026 By Staff Reports

ZEPHYRHILLS – Monin plans to purchase 70 acres of the Zephyrhills Airport Industrial Park Ready Site in the City of Zephyrhills.

The company, which provides flavoring products for creating specialty beverages and elevated culinary solutions, is expecting to invest over $100 million in a new facility where it will produce and distribute its product across the U.S.

“As we evaluated potential sites for our new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, we prioritized locations with a pro-business environment and a growing talent pool,” Monin CEO Bill Lombardo said. “Zephyrhills emerged as the ideal choice. With established food and beverage leaders like Zephyrhills Bottled Water and Bauducco Foods already calling the area home, we knew we were joining the right community. The Monin team is thrilled to expand our operations in Pasco County and bring even more quality jobs to the region.”

Greg Grabau, chief financial officer for Monin, described the decision as the “result of a disciplined process.”

“We assessed 10 candidate sites across four states before Zephyrhills rose to the top on labor availability, site readiness and long-term manufacturing potential,” Grabau said. “Its proximity to our original Clearwater facility is also a meaningful advantage as we ramp up, allowing both locations to share expertise and best practices.”

Duke Energy and Pasco EDC previously partnered to evaluate and market Zephyrhills Airport Industrial Park through two separate site evaluation programs.

“Monin’s investment is about much more than a new manufacturing facility; it’s about building long-term prosperity for our community. This project validates years of collaboration between Pasco EDC, Pasco County, the City of Zephyrhills, Duke Energy and our partners at the state to prepare and market competitive industrial sites,” said Bill Cronin, president and CEO of Pasco EDC. “The result is high-quality jobs, significant private investment and an expanded local and state tax base that will generate economic benefits for years to come.”

Grabau said Monin plans to hire more than 100 employees and invest more than $111 million in the initial phase.

The City of Zephyrhills recently approved incentives totaling $3,289,372. The incentive package is based on the company creating 100 new full-time positions which will have average annual wages of at least $46,760.

The city’s approved incentive package includes waiving or reimbursing transportation impact fees up to $252,750 and permit fees up to $435,060. Additionally, they will provide a job creation cash grant equal to the amount of 50% of ad valorem city property taxes for Years 1-5 and 25% for Years 6-10.

“The momentum in Zephyrhills continues to grow,” Zephyrhills Mayor Melonie Bahr Monson said. “Following several major investments in our industrial corridor, we’re proud to welcome Monin, Inc. as another globally recognized company choosing to invest in our community. At the City of Zephyrhills, we invite businesses to ‘Jump Right In,’ and Monin has done exactly that. Their decision to locate here reflects the strength of our workforce, our strategic location and our commitment to creating an environment where businesses can thrive. This investment will create quality jobs, strengthen our local economy, and reinforce that Zephyrhills is a place where opportunity springs.”

Construction is projected to generate 564 job-years locally and $148.4 million in economic output through 2026. Once the facility is fully operational, it’s anticipated to support 173 ongoing jobs and contribute $53.9 million in annual output. Beyond the immediate impact, the project will provide steady tax revenues for Pasco (about $1.09 million during construction and roughly $260,000 each year afterward) creating ongoing value for the community.

“Monin’s decision to invest here is a tremendous win for Pasco County,” Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley said. “This project brings high-quality jobs, new opportunities for our residents and continues the momentum we’re seeing across the Zephyrhills area. We’re proud to welcome Monin to our community.”

What’s Happening (July 22-28)

July 22, 2026 By justin

July 22

Handwork Circle

Land O’ Lakes Library offers Handwork Circle, a program intended for adults and teens who have previous handwork experience. Bring a project and meet with others who enjoy crocheting, knitting, counted cross stitch or hand sewing. 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 designed to instill the love of reading in children at an early age. The lap-sit program is 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

Storytime

Regency Park Library hosts a Storytime for children in early literacy stages. 727-861-3049

10:15-11 a.m. or 11:15-noon; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

Preschool Storytime

Children, ages 3-5, listen to stories and songs during Preschool Storytime at Hugh Embry Library. 352-567-3576

10:15-10:45 a.m. or 11 a.m.-noon; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

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

Ingenuity Lab

Hugh Embry Library offers an Ingenuity Lab for students in kindergarten through fifth grade with materials and activities that encourage children to create and explore. Waivers must be signed beforehand. 352-567-3576

2:30-7 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

Chess Club

New River Library hosts Chess Master-rated coach Rick McKnight for lessons and games. The program is geared for grades 4-12. Intermediate and advanced players can play from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Beginners can play from 4:30 to 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

Chess Club

The Hugh Embry Chess Club, a U.S. Chess Federation affiliate, meets weekly and is open to all ages and skill levels at Hugh Embry Library. 352-567-3576

5:15-7:45 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

Conversation Corner

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

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

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

Book Club

The Ales and Tales Book Club discusses “Deacon King Kong” by James McBride at In the Loop Brewing. The club is recommended for ages 21 and older. 813-929-1214

6-7 p.m.; 3338 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

July 23

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

Storytime Fun!

Zephyrhills Public Library invites toddlers and preschoolers for a fun, 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

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

Preschool Storytime

Regency Park Library invites ages 3-5 and their caregivers for stories, songs and activities. 727-861-3049

11:15 a.m.-noon; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

Ingenuity Lab

Students in grades K-5  work on open art projects during Ingenuity Lab: Hot Air Balloon at Hugh Embry Library. 352-567-3576

2:30-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

Mat Yoga

Zephyrhills Public Library invites adults to join instructor Michelle Mack for a mat yoga session. Bring a mat. The library does not provide one. 813-780-0064

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

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

 

July 24

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

Conversation Corner

Hugh Embry Library invites adults learning English, or English speakers seeking to improve, for practice with trained tutors. 352-567-3576

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

Escape Room

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center offers an escape room, Escape the Museum, for ages 9 and older. The escape room happens hourly. Register in advance at pascolibraries.libnet.info.

10:15 a.m.-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

Ingenuity Lab

Hugh Embry Library allows children to create crafts  at its makerspace. Waivers required. 352-567-3576

10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

Ukulele Jam

The Tampa Bay Ukulele Society holds a jam session intended for intermediate to advanced players at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

1-3 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

Spill the Tea Book Club

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts a discussion of “Home Sweet Homicide” by Craig Rice. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

July 25

Back to School

The Church at Myrtle Lake hosts its annual Back to School Drive Thru for children in kindergarten through high school. Free backpacks and school supplies will be distributed while supplies last. myrtlelake.org

9-11 a.m.; 2017 Reigler Road, Land O’ Lakes

Free Art Closet

Centennial Park Library opens its community art supply closet with free materials including beads, yarn, paint and brushes. Children 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Sponsored by Friends of the Library and community donations. Register in advance at pascolibraries.libnet.info.

10:10 a.m.-noon; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

Supersized Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library hosts a storytime with stories, songs and dance. 813-929-1214

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

Escape Room

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center offers an escape room, Escape the Museum, for ages 9 and older. The escape room happens hourly. Register in advance at pascolibraries.libnet.info.

10:15 a.m.-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

Conversation Corner

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center hosts casual conversation practice for adults. Supplies provided. 727-815-7126

3-4:30 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

Conversation Corner

Trained tutors help English as a second language learners and English-speaking learners with English reading, writing and speaking skills at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 to register.

3-4:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

Christmas in July

The GFWC Woman’s Club of Zephyrhills hosts a Christmas in July boutique, bake sale and community day in downtown Zephyrhills. Visit boutique vendors and buy baked goods. gfwcwomansclubofzephyrhills.com

4-9 p.m.; 38545 5th Ave., Zephyrhills

Lakeside Market

Lakeside Market offers vendors, craft beer, mimosas, food truck and music at In the Loop Brewing. intheloopbrewingcompany.com

6-10 p.m.; 3338 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

July 26

Tampa Theatre

Tampa Theatre’s Big Picture series screens the PG-13-rated film “Little Women” at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. 727-815-7126

2-5 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

July 27

Handwork Circle

Land O’ Lakes Library offers Handwork Circle, a program intended for adults and teens who have handwork experience. Bring a project and meet with others who enjoy crocheting, knitting, counted cross stitch or hand sewing. All Makerspace programs require closed-toe shoes and a waiver. 813-929-1214

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

Baby Storytime

Ms. Becky leads stories and songs during Baby Storytime at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. 727-815-7126

10:15-10:50 or 11-11:45 a.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

Ingenuity Lab

Hugh Embry Library offers an Ingenuity Lab with materials and activities that encourage children to create and explore. Waivers must be signed beforehand. 352-567-3576

10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

July 28

Medicare/Medicaid

Adults get help applying for the QMB state buy-in program to help pay for Medicare part B premium. 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

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