The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

News Briefs (10/22/25): Recycling project benefits the homeless

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Aniko Solomonson and Mary Cahill make sleeping mats for the homeless. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen

 

Aniko Solomonson delivers 22 completed mats to The Well to distribute to the homeless. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen

Recycling project benefits the homeless

LAND O’ LAKES – The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club meets once a month at the Lutz Community Center for a craft day filled with creativity and purpose. 

Among the many programs members support is the ongoing creation of sleeping mats for the homeless. This project has been close to members’ hearts for the past 11 years.

These durable mats are made by recycling plastic grocery bags. The ladies carefully fold and cut the bags, knotting the pieces together to make plarn (plastic yarn). Several members then crochet the mats from this plarn. 

Each mat takes approximately 400 grocery bags and 12 hours to complete.

Once finished, the mats are donated to The Well, a 501c3 organization in Tampa that assists and supports individuals experiencing homelessness. 

Through this project, the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club not only helps protect the environment by recycling plastic but also brings comfort and care to those in need.

 

Richard Hall

War hero turning 100 years old

LAND O’ LAKES – Richard Hall, a World War II and Korean War veteran, will be turning 100 years old on Oct. 29. The family is planning a birthday party at his granddaughter’s home in Odessa. 

The Pittsburgh native entered the Navy out of high school in 1943, when WWII was well underway. The U.S. entered the war following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. He was a naval aviator serving in WWII. Hall later served as a test pilot and instructor in the Korean War.  

He retired as a lieutenant commander in 1963 after more than 20 years of service. He became a stockbroker for the next 10 years and a small business owner after that.

Since retiring in 1990, he has enjoyed playing golf and bridge as well as spending time with family. 

Hall was married to his childhood sweetheart, Dorothy, for 68 years until her death in 2015. They have three daughters, seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

 

Pasco closing Hudson Library for remodeling

HUDSON – Hudson Regional Library will get a complete floor-to-ceiling renovation.

Work is set to begin after the library’s closing Nov. 1.

Renovations are funded by the Pasco Board of County Commissioners as part of the 2025-26 capital budget.  

Work includes repairing roof leaks, upgrading lighting and plumbing, reimagining the interior, dedicating spaces for adults, teens and children, expanding the makerspace and creating an art display area featuring local artists.

“It’s about creating a modern, welcoming library that connects the Hudson community to knowledge, creativity and one another for years to come,” Libraries Director Sean McGarvey said.

Patrons can check out books and materials at all other branches throughout the county, including the newly renovated Regency Park Library. They can also access the digital library 24/7 at pascolibraries.org.

 

New Port Richey presents Veterans Day Parade

NEW PORT RICHEY – The City of New Port Richey invites the community to come together in celebration and gratitude for the brave men and women who served our country in uniform at the Veterans Day Parade.

The parade will feature local veterans, active military units, marching bands, community organizations, and civic groups at 5 p.m. Nov. 11 around Orange Lake near Sims Park. 

“This event is an important opportunity for our community to express appreciation for our veterans and their families,” Mayor Chopper Davis said. “Their courage and service have shaped our nation, and we are proud to honor them here in New Port Richey.”

Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to wear red, white and blue, and show their support along the parade route. 

 

Nominate a woman for hall of fame

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – The Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women is accepting nominations through Nov. 13 for the 2026 Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame. 

Created in 2011, the program celebrates the achievements of Hillsborough County women who have made significant contributions in areas such as social services, education, philanthropy, the military and public service to improve the lives of residents.  

The honor is given to three recipients each year. 

There have been 41 women recognized since the program started more than 10 years ago, including former University of South Florida president Judy Genshaft, Civil Rights advocate Mary Alice Dorsett and philanthropic leader Carol Morsani.  

Nomination forms are available at HCFL.gov/WHOF.

 

Bilirakis reacts to Middle East peace deal

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gus Bilirakis, co-chair of the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance and the International Religious Freedom Caucus, released the following statement Oct. 13 in response to the peace agreement reached in the Middle East:

“I wholeheartedly applaud this landmark agreement, which represents a major step forward for peace, security and religious freedom in the region. This achievement would not have been possible without the strong leadership of President Trump along with the dedicated diplomacy of Secretary of State Rubio. Their tireless efforts brought both sides to the table and helped deliver a breakthrough that many thought impossible.  The return of hostages to their families is especially moving and long overdue – a powerful reminder of what is at stake and what can be achieved through determined engagement.  My hope and prayer is that this agreement marks a true turning point, one that reaffirms the value of American leadership on the global stage and sets the foundation for a more stable and peaceful future. I remain committed to working with our allies to ensure the successful implementation of this accord and to advance the broader vision of lasting peace and mutual respect it represents.”

 

Bullying fuels cancer survivor’s journey to CEO 

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Raquel Caramello is the CEO and chief designer of Raquel Beautiful, a jewelry brand built on the mission of spreading self-love and inclusion. The cancer survivor has raised thousands of dollars for charity. Photo courtesy of Raquel Beautiful

TAMPA – At just 21 years old, Raquel Caramello has transformed some of life’s hardest challenges into a story of courage, creativity and compassion.

Born with Down syndrome and diagnosed with cancer at age 12, Raquel endured two and a half years of excruciating chemotherapy treatments and the heartbreak of losing her hair. When classmates bullied her during this vulnerable time, she realized others were going through the same thing and found strength by creating inspirational notes and jewelry to give to others in the hospital. Each gift included the simple but powerful message: “You are beautiful.”

What began as a gesture of kindness has grown into Raquel Beautiful, a thriving jewelry business and movement. Today, every piece of jewelry comes packaged with an organza bag and a card that reminds the wearer: “You are beautiful.” Raquel has since donated more than $30,000 in jewelry and raised tens of thousands of dollars for charities, including the Special Olympics, Best Buddies, hospitals and Down syndrome organizations. Her message of positivity and empowerment has now been shared with hundreds of thousands of people, inspiring them to embrace their own unique beauty and strength.

During Down Syndrome Awareness Month in October, Raquel will bring her journey full circle at the star-studded Global Down Syndrome Foundation’s “Be Yourself Be Beautiful” Fashion Show. She won’t just walk the runway. Raquel will do so in a gown she designed herself, using skills she developed in Cornell University’s Fashion Design Management program. As a graduate, Raquel gained the knowledge and confidence to turn her fashion dreams into reality.

Her story has captured hearts across the country, not only as a CEO and designer, but as a self-advocate who turned pain into purpose.

“I was bullied when I lost my hair,” Raquel said. “But when I realized others were going through the same thing, I wanted to help them feel beautiful. That’s why I make jewelry, that’s why I write the notes and that’s why I give back.”

 

Business Digest (10/22/25): Liquor Depot raises $20K for charity

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Liquor Depot owner Trey Lawson, a lifelong Buccaneers fan, launched this charity barrel fundraiser back in 2021 because he is passionate about giving back and making a difference in his community. Photo courtesy of Liquor Depot

 

Liquor Depot’s barrel release party was a win-win for fans of spirits and the Bucs. Photo courtesy of Liquor Depot

Liquor Depot raises $20K for NFL legend’s charity 

TAMPA – Liquor Depot raised $20,000 for the Mike Alstott Family Foundation through its annual charity barrel fundraiser. 

Owner Trey Lawson partnered with Tampa Bay Buccaneers legend Mike Alstott to release a 12-year Penelope Estate Collection Rye, with all 125 bottles selling out Oct. 11 at Liquor Depot’s Waters Avenue location. Alstott attended to sign bottles and greet fans. 

Since 2021, Liquor Depot has donated nearly $60,000 to the foundation, which supports families and children through assistance programs and events. 

 

IT leader joins credit union 

TAMPA – GTE Financial appointed Steve Vaughn as vice president of technology integrations. 

Vaughn has nearly 30 years of experience in information technology and software development, most recently serving as a senior technology leader at Partners Federal Credit Union in Orlando.

“From my very first conversation with GTE, it was clear that this organization views technology as a differentiator, not just a cost center,” Vaughn said.

His key priorities include integrating AI and emerging technologies, expanding automation and ensuring every technology investment advances security, accuracy and convenience for GTE’s 200,000-plus members.

“His leadership will help us continue advancing technology that protects members’ financial resources while providing faster, smarter and more convenient access to them,” said Chad Burney, chief information officer.

 

Better Together gets $5K grant from credit union

TAMPA – Better Together, a nonprofit supporting families and children, received a $5,000 donation from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation to fund its Better Families program in Hillsborough County. 

The program helps prevent foster care by connecting parents with mentors, jobs and short-term child care. 

“These funds empower us to continue providing vital resources to families in crisis in Tampa, keeping families together and preventing the need for foster care,” CEO Megan Rose said. 

Since 1990, Suncoast’s foundation has donated more than $55 million. Better Together has served over 15,000 children, keeping 98% of them out of foster care. 

 

U-Pick market adding technology 

ALTURAS – Golden Ridge Groves and Market, a third-generation family farm in Alturas, will open in November as Florida’s first U-pick agritourism destination using Citrus Under Protective Screen technology to fight citrus greening disease. 

Founded by Katie and Shane Bevilacqua, the farm will feature ruby grapefruit, Valencia and Vernia oranges, strawberries and seasonal sunflowers. 

Visitors can enjoy U-pick experiences, fruit sampling and tours along with homemade ice cream, jams and gift fruit shipping. 

The public grand opening is scheduled for Nov. 20.

 

Sport Clips launches Help A Hero campaign

TAMPA – Sport Clips Haircuts has launched its 2025 “Help A Hero” scholarship campaign with the Veterans of Foreign Wars, running through Nov. 15. 

The goal is to raise $1.35 million for scholarships supporting veterans and service members. 

On Nov. 11, participating locations will offer free haircuts to veterans and active-duty military. 

Since 2013, the program has awarded more than 3,350 scholarships totaling $15 million.

 

USF Credit Union expands beyond Tampa Bay

WINTER PARK – USF Credit Union will open its first branch outside the Tampa Bay region in Winter Park in spring 2026. 

The branch will feature flexible service spaces and advanced digital tools.

“Winter Park is the ideal community to debut our first branch outside Tampa Bay and our first location without a traditional teller line,” said Richard J. Skaggs, president and CEO of USF Credit Union. “We’re bringing the next generation of banking to Central Florida and opening our doors to all residents who want a financial partner that leads with innovation, inclusivity and heart.”

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a community festival. 

  • The chamber presents food, music and carnival rides during its 21st annual Wesley Chapel Fall Festival & Carnival at The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 5854 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. The festival runs 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 25 and 26. The carnival opens Oct. 23. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a brochure exchange, networking for nonprofits and programming for young professionals. 

  • Members exchange business information during New Port Richey Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 23 at Catered By VESH, 5811 Richey Drive, Port Richey. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Lunch costs $15. Register in advance. 
  • Nonprofits discuss issues about their work and the community during the Greater Pasco Nonprofit Network: A Roundtable for Collaboration & Community Impact from 9 to 10 a.m. Oct. 28 at The All Ways Center,

6020 U.S. 19, New Port Richey. Register in advance. 

  • Michael Cox, of Coastal Bay Wealth Management, serves as the speaker for the Young Professionals Group Coffee Connections event from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Oct. 31 at Starkey Market, 3460 Starkey Blvd., Trinity. Visit greaterpasco.com for details about the chamber and events. 

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will host Coffee & Networking events. 

  • Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Oct. 24 at the Zephyrhills location (38550 5th Ave.) and from 8 to 9 a.m. Oct. 28 at the chamber’s Dade City location (14112 8th St.). Register in advance. 

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

 

Health & Wellness (10/22/25): Twin pulmonologists work together

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Dr. Daniela Trelles (middle left) and Dr. Valeria Trelles (middle right) said their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic drove them to specialize in pulmonology and critical care. They have an office at AdventHealth’s Bond Clinic, 500 East Central Ave., Winter Haven. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

Twin pulmonologists work for AdventHealth

LAKE WALES – Twin sisters Valeria and Daniela Trelles have joined AdventHealth’s network, bringing their pulmonology and critical care expertise to Polk County. 

Originally from Cuenca, Ecuador, the sisters were inspired to become physicians by their community’s deep respect for doctors. After advanced training in Florida, they opened a clinic in Lake Wales to help patients with COPD, asthma and other respiratory issues. 

“We really want to be the friend or part of the family that these patients need,” Dr. Daniela said. 

 

Opioid task force seeks new member

PASCO COUNTY – The Pasco County Opioid Task Force is seeking applications from experts and citizens to fill a vacancy.

The non-paid, volunteer advisory board recommends expenditures of the opioid funds and identifies strategies being utilized to respond to the opioid epidemic in Pasco County.

Requirements to apply include the following:

  • Be a subject-matter expert in public health or addiction
  • Be retired
  • Be nominated by the county administrator
  • Be appointed by the Pasco Board of County Commissioners

Apply at mypas.co/AdvisoryApplication

On the web: mypas.co/AdvisoryBoardsCommittees

 

Grant supports opioid recovery, workforce development

TAMPA – CareerSource Tampa Bay has received a Fostering Opioid Recovery Grant to help individuals affected by substance use disorder rebuild their lives through job training and career services. 

The program offers on-the-job training, occupational skills courses and supportive resources for long-term employment. It also assists those pursuing careers in addiction recovery, mental health, emergency response and public safety. 

“Through this grant, we can provide meaningful employment, specialized training and the support needed for long-term success,” said Saleema Bennett, director of programs. 

Interested participants can complete a pre-screening form at CareerSourceTampaBay.com.

 

License plate revenue supports autism programs

SUNRISE – The Autism Services Council announced it is awarding $158,000 in grants to 18 nonprofits across Florida, bringing direct services to 2,500 individuals with autism and related disabilities. 

Funding for the grants comes from sales and renewals of the Florida “Support Autism Programs” specialty license plate.

Programs the grants will fund include: 

  • Arts4All Florida, Tampa – upgraded iPads essential for its Animation Gets Real summer camp, where teens with autism build artistic, creative and social skills through animation and digital music.
  • Spectrum Sailing, Sarasota – free three-day sailing camps in Sarasota that use sailing instruction to help autistic youth build confidence, teamwork and social skills in an inclusive outdoor setting.
  • Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa – Art on the Spectrum, a monthly sensory-friendly museum program that offers neurodiverse families inclusive access to the arts through tailored experiences and resources.

 

Hospital reaches stroke milestone

HUDSON – HCA Florida Bayonet Point Hospital has performed more than 700 stroke thrombectomies since launching its stroke care program in 2019. 

The procedure removes clots from the brain’s blood vessels, restoring blood flow and preventing long-term disability. 

“Our stroke team works with precision and urgency because we know that time is brain,” said Erin Rona, interventional radiology supervisor. 

CEO Sally Seymour called the milestone “a testament to extraordinary skill, dedication and teamwork.” 

The hospital’s focus on rapid response and continuous improvement continues to deliver life-saving results for stroke patients across the region.

 

Challenge coins promote mental health 

  1. PETERSBURG – On World Mental Health Day, St. Petersburg Police officers received custom challenge coins designed to reduce stigma and encourage conversations about mental health in law enforcement. 

Created by graduates of St. Petersburg College’s Applied Mental Health Certificate program for first responders, the coins read “First to Respond, Last to Ask for Help” and link to mental health resources via QR code. 

“They represent connection, courage and compassion,” said Detective Rachel Hunter of the St. Petersburg Police Department. 

Funded by the Pepin Family Foundation, the initiative aims to inspire officers across Tampa Bay to view seeking help as strength, not weakness.

Castellani hopes to inspire healing through new book

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Peter Castellan

ZEPHYRHILLS – Peter Castellani, executive director of the Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhills, has written a book, “The Great Darkness,” to help people find their God-given purpose, heal from abortion experiences and awaken the church. 

Castellani will host a book launch party at 6 p.m. Nov. 6 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 20735 Leonard Road, Lutz. 

Community members, faith leaders and those touched by pregnancy loss, abortion and spiritual struggle are invited to an evening of conversation and renewed purpose.

Castellani shares personal testimonies and lessons rooted in faith, showing how individuals can move from silence and shame to restoration and service. 

The book aims not only to confront a divisive issue but also to illuminate stories of resilience that can reshape how communities minister to one another.

Castellani seeks to shed light on the struggles and triumphs faced by individuals navigating these challenging circumstances. 

Screenshot

“The Great Darkness is a call to the church and the wider community to step into broken places with courage and compassion,” Castellani said. “My hope is this book opens doors for honest conversation, brings healing to those who have suffered in silence and equips people to find and live their God-given purpose.”

The launch event will include a short reading, a discussion about themes in the book and time for questions, answers and conversation. 

Guests will have the opportunity to connect with local ministries working on healing and outreach. 

While the event is free, organizers are requesting reservations so they can prepare enough refreshments and seating. Email or call 813-493-1864 to reserve a spot.

 

AdventHealth Center Ice hosts Hallowrink

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AdventHealth Center Ice is the largest ice-sports training facility in the Southeast. The 150,000 square-foot facility features five ice rinks (one Olympic-sized, three NHL format, and one studio rink), 18 locker rooms, an off-ice training area, full restaurant/bar, concession stand and a pro shop. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth Center Ice

 

WESLEY CHAPEL – AdventHealth Center Ice presents “Hallowrink,” a themed public skate session from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 24. 

The family-friendly ice skate will include Halloween-themed party favors and treat bags, while supplies last. Come dressed up in costume and enjoy party lights, on-ice games, a costume contest, themed drinks and a DJ playing all the haunting hits.

AdventHealth Center Ice regularly hosts two-hour themed ice-skating sessions during its public skate times. These are open to all ages, whether you’re an avid skater or just looking for a fun way to ice skate for the first time. The center is located at 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., Wesley Chapel. 

While most public skate sessions at AdventHealth Center Ice are 1 hour, the monthly theme skate and the weekly “Friday Night Meltdown” showcase party lights, music DJ, and extended two hours of skating time.  

“Theme skates at AdventHealth Center Ice offer guests a unique way to express themselves and fully enjoy the community ice skating experience,” said Matthew Christopher, events director. “For the upcoming event, the in-house restaurant and bar, Top Shelf Sports Lounge, will serve kid and adult-friendly themed drinks like a Candy Corn Ice Cream Float.”

 

Festival connects community to first responders

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Children met sheriff’s deputies, firefighters and other first responders, and got to experience what it feels like to sit in their vehicles. Photo courtesy Hillsborough County Firefighters Local 2294

 

TAMPA – Hillsborough County’s firefighters and deputies spent Oct. 2 giving back to the community during the third annual Family Fun Day at Raymond James Stadium. 

Children climbed aboard fire trucks, explored sheriff’s vehicles and watched the bomb squad robot in action, while first responders mingled with families, answering questions and sharing stories.

Organized by Hillsborough County Firefighters Local 2294 and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the event gave the community a chance to meet their local heroes outside of emergencies and enjoy a day packed with hands-on activities and entertainment.

“This event allows us to engage with families in a meaningful way,” said Tim Pearson, president of Hillsborough County Firefighters Local 2294. “Seeing kids’ faces light up when they meet a firefighter or a deputy reminds us why building trust and connection with the community is so important.”

Guests also enjoyed live music, backyard games, face painting, train rides, bounce houses and a spirited cornhole tournament that had Hillsborough County Firefighters and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office teams competing for bragging rights (firefighters won). 

Many attendees contributed to the Hillsborough County Firefighters Toy Drive for Sincerely Santa, sharing unwrapped toys to brighten the holidays for local children.

“Our goal is to bring joy, gratitude and unity to our community,” said Chris Boles, executive director at Hillsborough County Firefighter Charities. “It was a day filled with fun activities that allowed first responders to show our appreciation for the people who support us every day.”

As an event sponsor, the Pepin Family Foundation helped connect the community with the heroes who serve them. The foundation focuses on supporting initiatives that strengthen mental health and resiliency programs for Tampa Bay’s first responders.

Additional supporters included Hillsborough County Firefighter Charities, RedSpeed, HCA Florida, The Finley Group, BeneCom and Kroger.

Piccolo Buco Concept expands in Tampa

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TAMPA – Piccolo Buco, from the team behind Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurants, was scheduled to open its third location in Tampa on Oct. 20 at 14904 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.

This newest restaurant continues Cooper’s Hawk’s mission to bring exceptional culinary and wine experiences to guests’ backyards. Piccolo Buco is designed as an intimate dining destination that captures the essence of Rome. 

The restaurant brings authentic Italian traditions to Tampa in partnership with Chef Luca Issa, owner of the original Piccolo Buco in Rome.

Cooper’s Hawk founder Tim McEnery discovered Piccolo Buco while traveling in Rome and set out to bring its pizza experience to wine club members and guests.

“Tampa is a perfect fit for Piccolo Buco’s authentic approach to pizza and Italian dining,” McEnery said. “As we establish our presence in Florida for the first time, we’re excited to become part of this vibrant community. This third location reinforces our vision of crafting exceptional dining experiences that bring people together around great food and genuine hospitality.”

The Tampa location features 192 seats: 144 inside and 48 on an enclosed patio. 

Upon entry, guests are met with a grand tasting bar with a custom mantelpiece and light-framed shelving showcasing vintage treasures. Here, wine tastings come alive with subtle nods to Rome, local culture and the Piccolo Buco identity through bespoke artwork and wall features.

The dining room offers a mix of seating and a clear connection to the kitchen, all beneath a suspended industrial ceiling adorned with woven string lights, evoking an al fresco feel. A mural of Roman statues pays homage to the restaurant’s history.

The main bar features warm woods, vintage floral walls and a curated gallery of nostalgic pieces for a more intimate escape. 

The menu showcases traditional Italian favorites alongside interpretations prepared with a mix of authentic and local ingredients. 

Signature items include Luca’s Red, Yellow or White pizza that finishes with a crisp yet cloud-like dough and tall crust. 

Starters include Mama Luca’s Meatballs, Crispy Stuffed Squash Blossoms and Crispy Calamari. 

Roman-style entrees include Cacio e Pepe, Truffle Fondue Cappellacci and Braised Short Ribs. The dessert selection includes Mama Luca’s Tiramisu, Amalfi Pound Cake and Raffaello Gelato. 

An extensive wine selection features both Italian varietals and Cooper’s Hawk’s own wines.

The lunch menu features a collection of Sardinian sandwiches made with the brand’s signature pizza dough. 

Cooper’s Hawk wine club members can also enjoy the perks of their membership at all Piccolo Buco locations.

 

Want to go?

Piccolo Buco operates from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 14904 N Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa. 

On the web: piccolobuco.coopershawk.com

Chalk Talk (10/22/25): PHSC offers apprenticeship programs

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Pasco-Hernando State College honored recent apprenticeship graduates Aug. 13 during an alumni dinner. Eugene Figueroa, a graduate of the apprenticeship program, said he’s very grateful to the college for the “opportunity to excel and gain experience and guidance.” Photo courtesy of PHSC

PHSC offers apprenticeship programs

NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco-Hernando State College’s construction technician worker and apartment maintenance technician programs have made an impact on the workforce since their launch in 2022.

As of fall 2025, PHSC enrolled 64 apprentices in total, with 21 graduates having completed both the Related Technical Instruction and On-the-Job Training components of their programs. An additional 20 apprentices are currently active, working with local partners and gaining hands-on experience in their respective fields.

“We’re hoping to expand both of the programs as we enter the 2026 spring term,” said Wendy Villa, associate director of workforce development. “We currently have over 60 interested applicants for the AMT program and over 85 applicants for the CTW program. For this upcoming semester, we’re hoping to increase the program to allow for two cohorts of each program, doubling the number of current spots.”

PHSC’s overall job placement rate for apprenticeship graduates is between 80% and 85%, thanks to strong partnership with local companies in Pasco and Hernando counties. 

Many students transition directly from apprenticeships into full-time roles with these companies.

On the web: phsc.edu/academics/job-training/apprenticeships

 

Support helps at-risk freshmen stay the course 

SAINT LEO – Saint Leo University is celebrating a boost in student success, thanks to the generosity of alumnus Jody “Allan Joseph” Luihn and the Taco Bell Foundation.

Their support has helped provide direct aid to at-risk first time-in-college freshmen through the university’s Retention Task Force.

Through the Access to Excellence Fund, more than $50,000 in one-time scholarships are distributed annually, including Taco Bell Foundation contributions that also support student success in areas of financial literacy, advising and career readiness. 

While the Retention Task Force serves students across multiple groups, the Taco Bell Foundation grant was directed specifically to at-risk freshmen on campus.

In the 2024-25 academic year, 43 at-risk freshmen received critical support to stay enrolled. The program expects to reach more than 130 students facing similar challenges this year. 

Saint Leo’s retention rate jumped 7 percentage points in one year, from 59% to 66%, outpacing the national average for private nonprofit universities.

“This partnership directly impacts our most vulnerable students, providing the confidence and resources they need to succeed,” said Stephen Kubasek, vice president of University Advancement.

 

Turning Point USA launches pilot chapter

LAND O’ LAKES – Turning Point USA has launched a Middle School Pilot Chapter.

The new chapter will bring middle school students and parents together to learn about the values that have shaped America, such as freedom, community, civic engagement and faith. 

The 501c3 nonprofit strives to inspire the next generation to become informed, engaged and responsible citizens.

Email or search for TPUSA Junior Patriots on Facebook for more information. 

 

Make sure your spooky scary skeleton is in good shape

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With the skeletons coming out in full force this month, have you given much thought to your bones?

After all, your skeleton does so much. It provides structural support, allows us to move, protects vital organs, makes red and white blood cells and more.

We’ve all heard of calcium and Vitamin D for bone health, but phosphorus is a big one, too.  

Phosphorus and calcium make up the structure of our bones, where they are stored.  

The two have an inverse relationship: when one rises, the other drops.  

The concentration of calcium and phosphorus in the blood is tightly regulated through hormones as our bodies strive to stay in homeostasis.  

Many processed foods have phosphorus additives.  

You might see them on the ingredients list as phosphoric acid, sodium phosphate and polyphosphates.  

You’ll find these additives in sodas, baked goods, crackers, pizza, cured meats, candy and other food sources.

Meanwhile, you can get phosphorus naturally in dairy food, salmon, beef, poultry, pork, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole wheat products and certain vegetables, according to the Harvard School of Public Health.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance for phosphorus is 700 mg/day.  

When consumed from natural food such as milk, only 60% of it gets absorbed.  

But when consumed from processed food, 100% of it gets absorbed.  

Too much phosphorus, namely from processed food, causes the calcium in the blood to drop, and so your body pulls it from the bones to try to maintain the balance.  

Over time, this can lead to brittle and weak bones.  

The calcium to phosphorus ratio is crucial to bone health, and what we eat makes all the difference.  

If you’re already eating a healthy eating pattern, then you are probably getting enough of this mineral.  

Check the food label too to see if you’re getting enough calcium or Vitamin D (don’t forget the sun can help with Vitamin D levels too).  

Daily calcium requirements vary by age and gender:

  • 9 to 18 years old: 1,300 mg
  • 19 to 50 years old: 1,000 mg
  • Men 51 to 70 years old: 1,000 mg
  • Women 51 to 70 years old: 1,200 mg
  • All adults 71+: 1,200 mg

Dairy has high calcium levels that are well absorbed by the body, but there are other food sources that have calcium too, whether naturally or fortified.  

For example, look for grains fortified with calcium, such as cereals and bread.  

Among vegetables, dark leafy greens such as collards, kale and bok choy are good sources of calcium.  

While spinach does have calcium, it also has oxalates, which inhibit calcium absorption.  

And if you’re a fan of orange juice, make sure it’s fortified with calcium and vitamin D.  

Kumquats, oranges and dried figs also have some levels of calcium.  

Within protein, fortified tofu and certain beans and seafood have calcium.

As for Vitamin D, intake varies a bit by age:

  • 1-70 years: 15 micrograms per day
  • Over 70: 20 micrograms per day

You’ll find Vitamin D fortified in many foods and beverages, including milk, yogurt, cheese, cereal and orange juice.  

Naturally, you’ll find it in fatty fish and egg yolks.

Other habits matter too, like staying active with weight-bearing exercises such as walking and resistance training, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco.

So as you hang up the skeletons in your yard, don’t forget about your own skeleton.

 

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County, An Equal Opportunity Institution.