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Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

BayCare names chief philanthropy officer

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CLEARWATER – BayCare Health System has named Kate Sawa its first chief philanthropy officer.

Sawa will continue to serve as president of the St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation, including the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation.

“Families across West Central Florida need access to excellent health care close to home, and our generous donors and community partners help make that possible,” said Stephanie Conners, president and CEO of BayCare. “Kate’s vision and authentic leadership will help us deepen these vital partnerships and work together to create lasting impact across the communities we’re privileged to serve.”

In her expanded role, Sawa will partner with the leaders of four other Baycare hospital organizations, which will continue to have their own boards and independence, to advance BayCare’s philanthropic efforts.

Sawa’s leadership is shaped by her personal and professional experiences. 

Early in her career, she founded a nonprofit inspired by her sister’s journey with Down syndrome. 

She later served as the local executive director of the American Heart Association and then went on to hold national roles within the organization. 

She became the leader of St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation in 2021. Since then, she has been key to BayCare’s commitment to build a new, freestanding facility for St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. 

Under Sawa’s leadership, the St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation announced in 2023 a $50 million naming gift from Sidd Pagidipati and his family to support what will be known as the Pagidipati Children’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s. The new hospital facility is scheduled to open in 2030.

“BayCare is truly a special place where our physicians, nurses and team members are passionate about providing the highest-quality, compassionate care for our communities. It’s always about doing what’s right by the patient as the work truly matters in the lives of children and families,” Sawa said. “I’m honored to help play a role by connecting our generous donors, who inspire us to see all the possibilities for improving health care in West Central Florida.”

 

Pasco County expands housing options 

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NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County is allowing property owners to build or create various types of accessory dwelling units. 

These small, secondary homes can help families live together more comfortably by providing relief from rising rental or mortgage costs. Or when used for long-term rentals, they can help a homeowner make extra money.

Adding an accessory dwelling unit to a property can provide the following benefits:

  • Multi-generational living. Create space for elderly parents or young adults.
  • Extra income. Earn income through long-term rental use (more than 180 days).
  • Property value boost. Increase the overall worth of your home.

Accessory dwelling units can take many forms. A homeowner can convert a garage or attic into a mother-in-law suite, build an attached apartment or add a stand-alone unit, such as a tiny house. 

Accessory dwelling units can be included during new construction or added later, depending on one’s needs.

Pasco County says that before homeowners build, they must ensure the following: 

  • Accessory dwelling units will be on a property zoned for single-family homes.
  • The unit will be built on a permanent, fixed foundation.
  • The unit design complements the primary home, with size/height limitations.
  • The homeowner secures a building permit (required for new construction, additions and structural changes).

Visit mypas.co/adu or call the building construction services department at 727-847-8126 for more details or questions about Pasco’s accessory dwelling unit requirements.

Concert supports theater renovation campaign

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Jesse Triplett, Ed Roland and Jonny Rabb share the stage. Photo courtesy of Richey Suncoast Theatre

 

 

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Richey Suncoast Theatre more than doubled its $20,000 fundraising goal for “Letters from E: An Evening with Ed Roland of Collective Soul.”

The benefit concert officially kicked off the theater’s capital fundraising campaign to renovate and preserve the nearly 100-year-old venue.

The event raised a total of $42,550 through ticket sales, sponsorships and an online auction featuring exclusive signed memorabilia from Collective Soul, Our Lady Peace, Live! and private donors. 

These funds will directly support the theater’s renovation projects, including a new roof, updated windows and doors, and an exterior update. These upgrades will ensure the historic venue continues to serve as a home for the performing arts for generations to come.

The concert’s success was made possible by the generosity of Ed Roland, frontman of Collective Soul, who donated the entire performance. 

Roland was joined on stage by his bandmates Johnny Rabb and Jesse Triplett, creating an unforgettable night of music for a sold-out audience.

“This event was a powerful beginning to our renovation campaign and a reminder of what community collaboration can achieve,” said Lia Gallegos, interim president of Richey Suncoast Theatre. “Ed’s generosity, combined with the enthusiasm of our sponsors, donors and guests, made this night one for the history books.”

The “Letters from E” benefit concert will now become an annual event, continuing to unite music lovers and arts supporters in sustaining the Richey Suncoast Theatre for the next century. 

Visit richeysuncoasttheatre.com for more information about the Richey Suncoast Theatre, upcoming performances or to contribute to the ongoing renovation campaign.

Chalk Talk (12/24/25): Students, seniors connect through light

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Students at Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay made connections with residents at Aston Gardens through a Chanukah celebration. Photo courtesy of Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay

Students, older adults connect through light

TAMPA – Lower elementary students at Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay took part in one of the school’s most cherished traditions: the annual Chanukah celebration with the residents at Aston Gardens. 

The visit began with lively Chanukah songs that filled the room with energy and joy. The residents clapped along, many joining in softly, at first, as familiar melodies sparked memories. 

After uniting in song, students and seniors gathered together around tables for a few spirited rounds of dreidel. Laughter echoed as everyone compared spins, traded chocolate gelt and enjoyed the friendly competition.

The students also brought fresh latkes and applesauce.

Many residents commented on how meaningful it was to celebrate together and how the students’ presence brightened their day.

 

Performing Arts Series returns

NEW PORT RICHEY – Tickets are on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Performing Arts Series.

  • Jan. 9 – Yacht Rock (1970s and 1980s rock).
  • Feb. 6 – Dwight Icenhower (Elvis Presley tribute).
  • Feb. 27 – Crystal Stark: Divas of Disco.
  • March 20 – The Edge Effect (acapella).
  • April 10 – Honky Tonk Chicks (Country).

Tickets range from $30 to $35 with discounts available for season ticket packages and groups. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.

 

District names Outstanding Seniors

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools has identified 17 students as Outstanding Seniors.

Profiles for each student are available on the district website, highlighting scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and extracurricular activities.

Winners and their schools are as follows: 

  • Michael Whittaker, Anclote High School
  • Danya Nasiri, Angeline Academy of Innovation
  • Lindsay Fulop, Cypress Creek High School
  • Braydin Gadouas, Fivay High School
  • Miles Slavinsky, Gulf High School
  • Mylah Short, Hudson High School
  • Sadie Graber, J. W. Mitchell High School
  • Mariana Vargas, Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation
  • Emerson Phelps, Land O’Lakes High School
  • Parker Baldwin, Pasco eSchool
  • Olivia Simmons, Pasco High School
  • Logan Owens, River Ridge High School
  • Reese Van Brocklin, Sunlake High School
  • Lucy Kossoff, Wendell Krinn Technical High School
  • Jadon Wilson, Wesley Chapel High School
  • Nathan Finkel, Wiregrass Ranch High School
  • Ethan Stone, Zephyrhills High School

 

Pasco County Schools recognizes staff

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized two staff members Dec. 16 for going above and beyond the call of duty.

  • Tina Ray,  of West Pasco Education Academy, not only has more than 25 years of experience in alternative education but also pitches in with programs at the school. 
  • Logan Gardner, of Watergrass Elementary School, was nominated for being a supportive teacher and team lead.

 

Quick Hits

  • Lorea Sprackling of Lutz, was elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at The University of Tampa.
  • Chloe Benoist of Odessa, was named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. Students must have an academic average of 3.5 with at least 12 hours to qualify. 
  • Benjamin Terlion, of Land O’ Lakes, earned a bachelor’s degree in aviation at Minnesota State University, Mankato. 
  • Jenna Backus, of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, won a $40,000 scholarship from the College Board.
  • Nirvika Ramsetty, of Oakstead Elementary School, won an essay contest run by Pasco County Clerk and Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles.
  • Ava Reiners, of Wendell Krinn Technical High School, is nominated for the U.S. Presidential Scholar Program in Career and Technical Education.

 

AdventHealth, Bolts Blue Crew help deliver holiday joy

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Christmas in Class makes holiday gifts possible for hundreds of children each year. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

 

TAMPA – Students at Foster Academy were treated to a special holiday surprise Dec. 19 as AdventHealth team members joined the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Bolts Blue Crew to deliver Christmas gifts directly to classrooms.

Throughout the morning, students received gifts, AdventHealth Buddy Bears and plenty of hugs from Santa. For some children, the gift they received through Christmas with Class may be the only Christmas present they receive this year.

The Christmas with Class program supports students in high-need communities. The program was founded by Stephanie and Blaine Patterson.

In recognition of its impact, Christmas with Class was honored as an AdventHealth Goal Getter on Dec. 18 during the Tampa Bay Lightning game against the Los Angeles Kings. A special video highlighting the program’s work played on the arena’s big screen.

Habitat families receive new bicycles for their children

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Bicycles were donated through a partnership with onbikes, a Tampa-based nonprofit that unites the community for bike builds and events. Its annual Winter Wonder Ride had more than 2,000 festively dressed bicyclists cruising through downtown Tampa. Photo courtesy of Habitat of Tampa Bay Hillsborough
Families received the new bikes this Christmas and should be moved into their new Habitat homes by next Christmas. Photo courtesy of Habitat of Tampa Bay Hillsborough

TAMPA – Christmas came early for 25 Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough families, as children received 50 new bicycles thanks to the onbikes program and community supporters.

Ten Habitat families picked up bicycles Dec. 18 at the onbikes warehouse, where some excited children had the chance to receive and ride their new bikes. 

For many children, it’s the first set of wheels they’ve ever owned. 

An additional 15 families received their bicycles the week prior. Some parents chose to make the bikes a surprise waiting under the tree on Christmas morning.

For families working toward first-time homeownership with Habitat, the gift represents more than a holiday surprise. Parents say the bicycles bring joy and encouragement as they continue to invest hundreds of “sweat equity” hours toward the purchase of a safe, affordable Habitat home with a mortgage designed to fit their budget.

“These families are doing the real work and moving closer to the dream of being able to put down roots for the next generation,” said Tina Forcier, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough. “It’s a little extra Christmas magic, so their children will also know that wonderful feeling of having their own new bikes to ride.”

 

News Briefs (12/24/25): GoPasco launches new bus route

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GoPasco launches new bus route

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Public Transportation (GoPasco) will introduce a new bus route serving the Land O’ Lakes area beginning Jan. 5.

Route 41 will provide weekday service with access to Route 54, which connects New Port Richey and Zephyrhills and offers regional connections with HART and PSTA. The route includes 16 northbound stops and 15 southbound stops.

Key stops include Heritage Park, Land O’ Lakes High School, Pasco County Utilities Building, Tax Collector’s Office, USPS, Walmart (U.S. 41 and Dale Mabry), and the Pasco County Corrections Visitation & Resource Center.

Schedules and route details are available at mypas.co/BusRoutes. Riders can track buses in real time using the myStop app. 

 

Pasco County commissioners reorganizes

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Pasco Board of County Commissioners reorganized at its Dec. 9 meeting.

The board elected Jack Mariano as chair, Seth Weightman as vice chair and Lisa Yeager as second vice chair.

“I’m honored to begin serving as chair of this commission,” Mariano said. “Pasco County has made tremendous progress in becoming a place where people want to live, work and build their future. I look forward to continuing that momentum and ensuring Pasco remains a county of opportunity, innovation and quality of life for all.”

The board consists of the following members: Ron Oakley (District 1), Seth Weightman (District 2), Kathryn Starkey (District 3), Lisa Yeager (District 4) and Jack Mariano (District 5).

Pasco County Commission meetings are usually held every other Tuesday, alternating between the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey and the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City.

 

Zephyrhills announces 2026 Photography Contest

ZEPHYRHILLS – The City of Zephyrhills and the Zephyrhills Community Redevelopment Agency are inviting photographers of all ages and skill levels to enter the 2026 City of Zephyrhills Photo Contest. 

Participants are encouraged to submit one original digital photo showcasing a local landmark or meaningful place in Zephyrhills, from historic sites and parks to public art, iconic signs and community gathering spots.

Prizes include $300 for first place, $200 for second and $100 for third. The first-place entry will also be submitted to the FCCMA Statewide Photo Contest.

Entries are due Jan. 5 by 11:59 p.m. Email submissions to and include your name and phone number. Rules are available at zephyrhills.gov or .

 

Pasco County offices to close for Christmas holiday

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Board of Commissioners offices will be closed Thursday, Dec. 25, and Friday, Dec. 26, in observance of Christmas. Offices will reopen Monday, Dec. 29.

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources offices, recreation complexes and community centers will be closed through Saturday, Dec. 27, though parks and beaches will remain open from dawn to dusk. 

GoPasco will not operate on Dec. 25 and will resume regular service on Dec. 26; administrative offices will remain closed.

Libraries will close at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, through Saturday, Dec. 27. 

Animal Services facilities will be closed with emergency response only; adoption services reopen Dec. 27. 

Solid waste facilities will be closed Dec. 25. They will also be closed to the public Dec. 26; however, they will be open to Pasco County licensed commercial haulers.

 

Pasco County offices to close for New Year’s holiday

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Board of Commissioners offices will be closed Thursday, Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2, in observance of New Year’s. Government offices will reopen Monday, Jan. 5.

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources offices, recreation complexes and community centers will be closed through Saturday, Jan. 3, though parks and beaches remain open dawn to dusk. 

GoPasco will not operate Jan. 1 and will resume regular service Jan. 2, with administrative offices closed.

Libraries will close at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, through Jan. 2. 

Animal Services facilities will be closed, with emergency response only; adoption services reopen Jan. 3. 

Solid waste facilities will be closed Jan. 1. ​​They will be closed to the public Jan. 2; however, they will be open to Pasco County licensed commercial haulers.

Chicken dinners lead to community winners

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The City of Zephyrhills Mayor’s Youth Council shared proceeds of its Chicken BBQ Drive-Thru fundraiser with CHIPZ. The event saw strong community involvement. Photo courtesy of City of Zephyrhills

ZEPHYRHILLS – The City of Zephyrhills Mayor’s Youth Council presented an $11,000 check to the Community Hope and Intervention Project of Zephyrhills during a city council meeting Dec. 8 at Zephyrhills City Hall.

Members of the youth council, led by Mayor Melonie Bahr Monson, selected CHIPZ as their annual community project, setting an original fundraising goal of $4,000. 

CHIPZ supports people experiencing homelessness in the Zephyrhills area through outreach and prevention, community navigation and connections to critical resources. The 501c3 organization strives “to create and increase access to programs, services and housing for the most vulnerable residents of Zephyrhills and the surrounding area.”

The youth council raised $10,830 through its citywide Chicken BBQ Drive-Thru fundraiser. 

Pitmaster Kevin Bahr, of Bahr’s Propane Gas & A/C, prepared all 350 chicken dinners with support from Beth Aker, executive director of Meals on Wheels of Pasco.

Ten youth council members and six volunteers from the Zephyrhills JROTC and Zephyrhills FFA assisted during the event. City staff and youth council mentors also supported operations throughout the evening. 

The event had 20 community sponsors, many of whom donated their purchased meals, allowing more than 150 dinners to be served directly to residents in need.

Additional last-minute contributions from community donors pushed the total to $11,000.

 

Business Digest (12/24/25): GROW Pasco offers breakout sessions

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GROW Pasco returns with impactful breakout sessions

  1. LEO – Taylor Doe will give the keynote presentation at GROW Pasco 2026. 

Doe’s presentation, “And Then Moments,” goes deeper into entrepreneurial stories than what we’re accustomed to hearing. It’s a nitty-gritty look at what goes into success.

Attendees can also pick up some pointers during 15 breakout sessions, including: 

  • Funding Forum with Michael Anselmo, Brad Owens and Rafael Lohner.
  • Top 10 Sales Drivers with Tim Neilan.
  • Factors that Impact a Loan Decision with Johannys Irizarry.
  • Profit Optimization Made Simple with Joe Abreu.
  • Build An Exit-Ready Business with Tee Gweena.

The sixth annual event takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 19 at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, St. Leo. 

Sponsorships are available. General admission costs $65.

Register in advance at pascoedc.com.

 

McDonald’s restaurants raise money for charity 

  1. PETERSBURG – Locally owned and operated McDonald’s restaurants across Central Florida raised $453,691.97 this holiday season to support Ronald McDonald House Tampa Bay and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida. 

From September through November, 406 restaurants and 44 owner/operators collected donations through in-store Round Up and $1, $3, and $5 giving programs.

Customers contributed by rounding up purchases or donating through multiple payment options, including the McDonald’s app. 

The donation will help support families with critically ill children by providing housing and services near hospitals.

 

GTE Financial named a top workplace

TAMPA – GTE Financial has been named one of America’s Best Workplaces for 2026 by Best Companies Group, in partnership with BridgeTower Media.

The national recognition highlights organizations with exceptional workplace culture and people-first practices. GTE Financial ranked No. 11 among large companies (250–999 employees).

“At GTE Financial, our employees are the foundation of everything we do,” said Brian Best, president and CEO of GTE Financial. “We believe that if we invest in our people, support their growth and foster a culture where they can thrive, our members and communities benefit directly.”

GTE Financial is a not-for-profit credit union serving members throughout the Tampa Bay region and beyond.

 

Achieva Credit Union hires chief lending officer

DUNEDIN – Achieva Credit Union has appointed David Germann as its new chief lending officer as the organization continues to expand lending programs across Florida. 

Germann has more than 35 years of experience in consumer, business and real estate lending.

Prior to joining Achieva, Germann served as vice president of sales and marketing at Credit Union LIFT Fund, LLC, and previously held the role of chief lending officer at Credit Union of America.

“His track record of driving responsible growth, paired with his deep understanding of what members truly need, makes him the right leader to guide Achieva’s lending strategy into the future,” said Eric Jenkins, CEO of Achieva Credit Union. “Under Dave’s leadership, we’ll continue expanding access to credit, building innovative products, and helping more Floridians achieve their goals.”

 

AmSkills announces leadership transition

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HOLIDAY – AmSkills announced a key leadership transition designed to strengthen the vocational training and workforce development organization’s long-term sustainability and expand its regional impact.

Tom Mudano will be stepping down after more than a decade as CEO.

Over the years, Mudano played a key role in building AmSkills’ programs and establishing its presence as a leading workforce development organization in Tampa Bay. 

Mudano will continue supporting the organization during and after the transition on tasks important to the growth and future of AmSkills.

The board of directors will begin a formal search for a new permanent CEO in the coming months. In the meantime, the board has appointed Peter Buczynsky as interim CEO. 

Buczynsky, a founding partner of AmSkills, brings extensive experience in organizational growth, manufacturing leadership and workforce development. He has also served as CEO of Pharmaworks, a company he co-founded and sold in 2020.

“Tom’s contributions shaped AmSkills into the strong organization it is today,” Buczynsky said. “As we move forward, my focus is on strengthening our direction, reinforcing our mission, and positioning AmSkills for long-term sustainability and growth.”

AmSkills teaches high and home-school students and adults the foundational skills needed for a career in manufacturing using hands-on training. The 501c3 organization also gives these students the chance to explore multiple career paths in the manufacturing and public utility industries. Once completed, candidates are eligible for paid, semi-skilled jobs or skilled apprenticeship opportunities.

Under Buczynsky’s leadership, AmSkills will continue advancing its core pillars:

  • Registered Apprenticeships focusing on industrial maintenance, to help public utilities, manufacturing and technical industries recruit, train and retain talent to meet growing workforce demands.
  • Career Discovery Bootcamps that create pathways for under-employed individuals, at-risk populations and adults seeking career transformation.
  • Youth Technical Training Programs that provide standardized, hands-on instruction to prepare students for careers in manufacturing and the skilled trades.