Local News

Hillsborough County offers packed Summer Reading schedule

May 30, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative offers engaging, entertaining and informative free programs for the entire family in June.

The events listed below are only a sampling of the many scheduled. Find more listings under the “Events & Classes” tab at HCPLC.org.

Robot Roundup with MOSI

Feel the spark of innovation as visitors use code to make robots walk, talk or dance. In this intro to robotics, learn what makes robots different from everyday machines. Recommended for teens. Registration is recommended.

When: June 5 from 3 to 4 p.m.
Where: Robert W. Saunders, Sr. Public Library, 1505 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa

Summer Festival

Start summer off with a bang at the Seminole Heights Branch Library’s Summer Fest. Join library staff for a free and fun family event featuring face painting, robotics, games, music, food and more. Funded by the Friends of the Seminole Heights Library and Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association. Recommended for all ages.

When: June 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Seminole Heights Branch Library, 4711 N. Central Ave., Tampa

Terrestrial Animal Ambassadors

Learn about a variety of terrestrial animals with the Florida Aquarium. Recommended for children. Registration recommended.

When: June 11 from 1 to 2 p.m.
Where: 78th Street Community Library, 7625 Palm River Rd., Tampa

Canvas Painting with The Color Express

Paint along step-by-step with Color Express to create a watercolor masterpiece. Recommended for adults. Registration recommended.

When: June 13 from 2 to 3 p.m.
Where: C. Blythe Andrews, Jr. Public Library, 2607 E. Martin Luther King Junior Blvd., Tampa

Adventure Down Under

Visitors will hear otherworldly sounds from a digeridoo, explore the Great Barrier Reef and the Outback, and learn about amazing animals like kangaroos and koalas. Recommended for children. Registration is recommended.

When: June 16 from 11 a.m. to noon
Where: Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa

Crafty Colorful Kaleidoscopes

Visitors will learn how to create a colorful kaleidoscope and open their minds to endless visual spectacles through crafting, creativity and colorful gems. Recommended for children. Registration is recommended.

When: June 17 from 11 a.m. to noon
Where: Town ‘N Country Regional Public Library, 7606 Paula Drive, Tampa

Bilingual Children’s Music and Fun with Evan and Vanessa

Evan and Vanessa perform original and traditional songs in English and Spanish, as well as a variety of interactive sound and listening activities, such as “I Hear with My Little Ear.” Recommended for children.

When: June 21 from 11 a.m. to noon
Where: West Tampa Branch Library, 2312 W. Union St., Tampa

Hand Embroidered Greeting Cards

Join library staff to learn about the history of greeting cards. Visitors will make their own using beginner-friendly stitches to hand embroider a card for a friend or loved one. All supplies provided. Recommended for adults. Registration is recommended.

When: June 23 from 3 to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Arthenia L. Joyner University Area Community Library, 13619 N. 22nd St., Tampa

Accidental Inventions: Play Doh!

Visitors will learn about accidental inventions like playdough, and then make their own playdough from scratch! Recommended for children ages 6 to12. Registration is recommended. Allergy note: Participants will encounter raw flour and essential oils.

When: June 25 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Where: Ruskin Branch Library, 26 Dickman Drive S.E., Ruskin

Tampa Taiko Japanese Drumming

Explore and honor Japanese culture through an ancient Japanese art form: taiko. In this interactive program, students respond to, describe, interpret and evaluate music as performers and listeners. Recommended for children.

When: June 28 from 2 to 3 p.m.
Where: Riverview Public Library, 9951 Balm Riverview Road, Riverview

Tampa Glow Row puts spotlight on development disabilities

May 30, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

These are highlights from the Glow Row event in Illinois. Photo courtesy of Project Focus

TAMPA – The 2025 Tampa Glow Row will bring together more than 200 athletes, with and without disabilities, for a high-energy night of fitness, fun and community.

The Caroline and Barrett Foundation, Project Focus and the Dancer Love Foundation are hosting the event from 5 to 10 p.m. June 7 at CrossFit Hyde Park.

Teams of 10 will row either a full or half marathon on row ERG machines, competing in one of two divisions: Community and Adaptive. Prizes will be awarded to the top two teams in each division, along with recognition for most team spirit.

The Glow Row’s neon-themed atmosphere will feature a festival experience with live DJ sets, food trucks and a vendor village of small businesses.

Proceeds will support Project Focus, a Tampa-based nonprofit that empowers people with developmental disabilities through education, life skills and workforce development as well as the Dancer Love Foundation, which creates access to athletic opportunities for people with disabilities.

“The programs and opportunities we provide at Project Focus are life-changing, many of our students would not have access to events like this without community support,” said Clayton Clemens, executive director of Project Focus. “The 2025 Tampa Glow Row is about breaking down barriers, celebrating what makes each of us unique and giving our community the chance to be a part of something special. Everyone deserves an opportunity to have fun, dance and feel connected with each other.”

The Tampa Glow Row was inspired by the efforts of The Dancer Love Foundation based in Quincy, Illinois and is following the footsteps of CrossFit Games athletes Sam and Jenn Dancer.

“The Dancer Love Foundation was inspired by my friend James, whose joy and light taught me the value of inclusive communities,” said Jen Dancer, co-founder. “Glow Row helps empower individuals with disabilities to discover wellness, build friendships and shine in their own way.”

Organizers say the Glow Row will become an annual event and open the door to new activities for people with developmental disabilities, their families and the community.

The long term goal of Project Focus is to build a “community within the community” that includes options for education, workforce training and apartment-style living for this population.

On the web: projectfocusfoundation.org

Pasco school board member sums up unforgettable year

May 29, 2025 By Megan Harding

I just wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every single teacher, staff, parent, community member and student.

It’s been a year filled with challenges, triumph, change, resilience and dedication. It’s truly been inspiring.

To our incredible students, your hard work and enthusiasm has made this year unforgettable. Whether you’re graduating or moving up a grade, your growth and achievements have made us all very, very proud. I want you to take this summer to recharge, explore and continue pursuing your passions.

To our dedicated teachers and staff, your commitment to the education and well-being of our students is truly remarkable. Your efforts have created a nurturing environment where learning thrives.

We’ve had to pivot a lot because of hurricanes and different things like that but you really created a learning environment that is nurturing. Thank you for everything you do day in and day out.

As we look forward to summer break, I encourage everyone to take time to rest, rejuvenate and connect with loved ones. Let’s cherish these moments and return with a renewed energy and excitement for the year ahead. I’m wishing everyone a safe and joyful summer.

Megan Harding serves as District 5 representative on the Pasco County School Board. She gave these remarks during the May 20 school board meeting.

Pasco County Schools graduation ceremonies

May 29, Center for the Arts at River Ridge

5 p.m. – Marchman Technical College

June 3 – Wendell Krinn Technical School Gymnasium

6 p.m. – Wendell Krinn Technical High School – Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony

June 4, Yeungling Center

9 a.m. – Wesley Chapel High School
1:30 p.m. – Hudson High School
6 p.m. – Wiregrass Ranch High School

June 5, Yeungling Center

9 a.m. – Zephyrhills High School
1:30 p.m. – Fivay High School
6 p.m. – Land O Lakes High School

June 6, Yeungling Center

8 a.m. – Cypress Creek High School
12 p.m. – Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation
4 p.m. – Pasco High School
8:30 p.m. – Sunlake High School

June 7, Yeungling Center

8 a.m. – River Ridge High School
12 p.m. – Gulf High School
4 p.m. – Anclote High School
8:30 p.m. – J.W. Mitchell High School

June 10, Center for the Arts at River Ridge

1 p.m. – Pasco eSchool

DAR chapter celebrates 100 years with speakeasy theme

May 28, 2025 By justin

TAMPA – The Tampa Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution celebrated its 100th anniversary on May 10 by staging as speakeasy at The Columbia Restaurant in the Ybor City area.

Co-chaired by Tampa Chapter Regent Sarah Hughes and Honorary Regent Bobbie Schofield, the speakeasy was complete with green door and password (Sparkle). Most guests appeared in Roaring 20s attire.

Greeted by songs from the 1920s, guests were immediately immersed in the speakeasy atmosphere, enhanced by appearances by (flat) Al Capone, Colleen Moore, Don Lockwood and Lena Lamont and Charlie Chaplin.

Other special guests included Florida State DAR Regent Cindy Addison from Fleming Island, State Vice Regent Kim Zeman from Deerfield Beach, State Registrar Jennifer Marks from Lithia and State Recording Secretary Laura Marriott from Longwood.

The 120 guests included members from 15 other DAR chapters.

Led by the Hillsborough River Unit of the Florida SAR Son’s of Liberty Brigade, the festivities began with a procession of color guard, chapter officers and state regent.

Florida State Regent Cindy Addison’s remarks complimented chapters that lasted long enough to celebrate 100 years, with many of Florida’s chapters celebrating that milestone in the 2020s.

The program also included presentations of gifts to each Tampa Chapter member in attendance, a check for $750 for the Florida state regent’s project and a skit starring Chapter Regent Sarah Hughes, Corresponding Secretary Madison Wise and Chapter Treasurer and Honorary Regent Bobbie Schofield.

The Regents, State and Chapter, then lit the sparkling “candles” on the spectacular cake.

Hughes then presented a moving and heartfelt toast to the past and the future of the Tampa Chapter doing Great Things in Tampa.

A proclamation signed by Mayor Jane Castor was on display that declared May 10, 2025 as Tampa Chapter NSDAR 100th Anniversary Day in Tampa.

Also on display were several images of Tampa in 1925.

Of special note in the silent auction was a decades-old copy of “The Famous DAR Murder Mystery” by Graham Landrum.

All the guests expressed themselves as having had a great time.

Habitat for Humanity breaks ground on seven homes

May 26, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Seven future Habitat homeowners break ground in Pasco County. Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside

NEW PORT RICHEY – Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside put shovels into the ground May 19 to mark the beginning of the build process for seven homes on Kiowa Drive.

The groundbreaking ceremony included the future homeowner families, Habitat staff, community supporters and elected officials. The homes are expected to be completed by this fall.

“This is another important step for Habitat in West Pasco County,” said Mike Sutton, president and CEO at Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside. “We are thrilled we could purchase these lots and build seven homes that will sit side-by-side and be owned by seven families going through the Habitat homeownership program. These families will be neighbors and be able to support one another for years to come.”

Candi Hagler, executive director – Pasco, addresses those gathered at the groundbreaking ceremony. Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside

This area of New Port Richey has provided ample opportunity for Habitat to build new homes for families. Three streets away on Teak Street, Habitat has built six homes in the last 18 months.

Habitat for Humanity has served over 900 homeowner partners since 1985. The affiliate serves Pinellas, West Pasco and Hernando counties.

Volunteers and future homeowners construct the homes, which are sold and financed with a zero-interest loan. Habitat homeowner candidates earn 30% to 80% of the area median income. Candidates must demonstrate the need for adequate shelter; the ability to pay back a zero-interest loan; and the willingness to partner with Habitat to complete a robust homebuyer education curriculum and invest 350 to 450 “sweat equity” hours.

Mortgage monies are used to build even more homes, making each donation to Habitat a perpetual legacy to the community.

Publix Supermarket Charities is sponsoring all seven homes. This will bring Publix’s home sponsorship total with Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside to 26 homes.

Below are the families that have been working toward homeownership.

The Blackshear Family

Maggie Blackshear and her 10-year-old twin granddaughters, A’Keena and A’Kacia, are excited to have a new beginning in their Habitat home.

The family of three is currently living in a one-bedroom apartment where the twins sleep in the bed while Maggie sleeps on the sofa.

“Our life will be different in our Habitat home because we will no longer be paying rent,” Maggie said. “We will be paying a mortgage to our forever home – somewhere that we will always be safe and secure.”

Maggie is excited to decorate the house with her girls and to cook meals in her new kitchen.

The Dorsey Family

Danyelle and Justin Dorsey and their two daughters, Layla (8) and Liyah (4), are on their journey towards homeownership, which will bring the family a sense of stability and comfort. They currently live in an income-based townhome complex that is uncomfortable and undesirable due to the lack of space and unaddressed maintenance issues.

“Justin and I are working together as a team to give our girls the loving, stable home we didn’t have growing up,” Danyelle said. The family is excited to have a yard to play and have family grill-outs in. “We will feel better about letting the girls play outside because we will have the space for them to do so.”

The Fisher Family

Alicia Fisher is a hardworking single mother to her 5-year-old son, Tristan.

The two enjoy spending time together at the park, visiting the beach or advocating for Autism, which Tristan is diagnosed with.

Alicia is eager to provide stability for herself and her son in their new home. She not only wants to have a safe place for Tristan but his friends as well. She has always wanted a place where her son’s friends can come over to play.

“Being a part of this journey has been meaningful to me,” Alicia said. “Not only am I learning to budget and build a home, but I am also meeting all kinds of new people that will be lifelong friends.”

The McLeod Family

Life has been a challenge for Johnnie Mcleod and her grandson (now adopted son) Tazarious.

The family of two is determined to overcome all life’s obstacles and create a lifetime of happiness and prosperity with the help of Habitat for Humanity.

After experiencing high rent prices, difficult living conditions and even homelessness, the family is ready for a new beginning.

“Our new beginning will consist of stability and affordability,” Johnnie said.

She and Tazarious are excited to have a yard where they can hang out and enjoy the beauties of the world.

“This home will be a starting point of new memories, new expectations and new blessings,” she said.

The Rodrigues-Hart Family

Anna Hart, a 19-year-old college student, and her mother, Claudia Rodrigues, have been living in a one bedroom apartment for the past eight years.

The limited space causes many frustrations and has left them with many sleepless nights and no privacy or space to call their own.

Getting accepted into the Habitat program brought Anna and Claudia a lot of relief and gratitude.

“Our house will be someplace I look forward to coming home to,” Anna said. “Somewhere I pull up to and smile knowing all the work it took for it to be there.”

The mother-daughter duo is most excited about the sense of security their forever home will bring. They will no longer have to worry about their rent being raised and will finally have the privacy of their own bedrooms and bathrooms that they have been longing for.

The Seija Family

Miriam Seija is a single woman from Colombia who came to America looking for a better future. Now, she is doing the same with Habitat and is looking forward to the peace and tranquility her forever home will bring her.

Before being accepted into the program, Miriam faced many hardships including the death of her husband, her own medical issues and the struggle to find a safe and affordable place to live.

After learning about the Habitat program, Miriam was determined to make her dream come true of owning a home and having time to herself in the comfort of a house that she can call her own.

The Wiggins Family

For the past five years, Quytesha Wiggins has been dreaming of becoming a homeowner. Her dream will finally come true with the help of the Habitat program.

Quytesha is a single woman who loves to laugh, spend time with family and listen to music. With increasing rent prices over the past few years, she has had to pick up an extra job which has caused her to miss out on spending time with her family.

She imagines life in her new Habitat home to be peaceful and is eager to create generational wealth for her future family.

Quytesha hopes that one day her home will become the place where her family hosts holiday gatherings and they can make many new memories together.

News Briefs (5/28/25): Site links to info amid emergency

May 25, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Website connects to information during emergencies

TAMPA BAY – A new lifeline for residents of Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Manatee and Sarasota counties during hurricane emergencies has launched at TampaBaySafe.org.

The website is designed to function when traditional communication channels fail. By eliminating bandwidth-heavy elements like images and videos, the text-based website ensures residents can access life-saving updates even on severely degraded connections.

“After each major hurricane, we see the same pattern – people desperately seeking basic information about water safety, power restoration, and supply distribution, but unable to load graphics-heavy emergency websites,” founder Howard LaVine said. “TampaBaySafe.org fills this critical gap with a platform engineered specifically for crisis conditions.”

The site serves as an information hub featuring links to county alert systems, information for medical facilities, power and water, locations for emergency resources, road status and emergency contact numbers.

TampaBaySafe.org aggregates information from authoritative sources to provide a centralized, easily accessible platform before, during and after severe weather events. It also offers practical safety guidance for everyday life.

County launches Adopt-A-Pond

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County’s Public Works Department has launched an Adopt-A-Pond and Lake Management program.

The program is open to homeowners (and neighborhood associations) who live on or near ponds that connect to the Pasco County stormwater system.

The volunteer-driven initiative encourages neighbors to adopt a stormwater pond and help remove invasive plants, plant native vegetation and clean up trash and pollutants.

Fill out an application at mypas.co/adoptapondform to get started.

“There are two main benefits of adopting a pond,” Environmental Program Coordinator Milla Turner said. “By cleaning up a stormwater pond you help improve water quality before it flows downstream, and you create a healthier environment for Florida’s native plants and wildlife.”

Pasco County Libraries launches Summer Reading Quest

ZEPHYRHILLS – Pasco County invites you to join its Once Upon a Summer Reading Quest, transporting you to a place with captivating performers, binge-worthy books, prizes and a shared community journey.

Enter 600 minutes of reading and record-keeping in the Beanstack app through Aug. 2 to qualify.

When you complete the challenge, you’ll be entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift card in your age group, courtesy of Friends of the Library and Friends of Zephyrhills Public Library. Other prizes will be up for grabs at all library branches.

Visit bit.ly/PascoSRC2025 to learn more about the quest and events.

Theater camps have openings

BROOKSVILLE – Live Oak Theatre Camp has limited openings available for its annual summer theater camps.

Camps are as follows:

Live Oak Theatre Camp – Boys and girls, ages 7 to 18, explore acting, auditioning, costume and set design, movement, song interpretation and vocal technique from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 9 to 13. Tuition costs $150.
Dance Camp – Children, ages 8 to 16, explore dance from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 16 to 20. Tuition costs $75.
Improv Camp – Ages 8 and older learn acting with a focus on the skill of improvisation from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. June 16 to 20. Tuition costs $75.

Visit https://www.liveoaktheatre.org/summer-camp or email for details and registration details.

Camp has ‘Seussical’ theme

NEW PORT RICHEY – Richey Suncoast Theatre invites young performers to step into the whimsical world of “Seussical the Musical” at its 2025 Youth Theatre Camp.

This week-long experience is designed for children, ages 6 to 9, who are ready to explore the magic of live theater in a fun, imaginative and supportive setting.

The camp takes place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 16 to 20 at 6237 Grand Blvd.

Campers will explore acting, musical theater, set and costume design and improvisation.

The week culminates in a Friday showcase performance for friends and family at 2:30 p.m., followed by an optional pizza ($5) and karaoke celebration. Tuition costs $250.

Call 727-842-6777 or email for registration details.

Theater shows classic films

TAMPA – Tampa Theatre’s Big Picture lineup for June features a selection of films that offer iconic representations of historic figures.

The lineup includes:

”Marie Antoinette” (2006, PG-13) – 7:30 p.m. June 4
”Amadeus” (1984, PG) – 7:30 p.m. June 18
”The Passion of Joan of Arc” (1928, Not Rated) – 7:30 p.m. June 25

“The Passion of Joan of Arc” will be presented with live organ accompaniment by Steven Ball.

Tickets cost $14.50 ($11.50 for Tampa Theatre members) for “The Passion of Joan of Arc” and $10 ($7 members) for all other Big Picture films.

Buy tickets at the Franklin Street Box Office or at www.tampatheatre.org.

Hillsborough honors Betz

TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners has presented the 2025 Ellsworth G. Simmons Good Government Award posthumously to Louis G. Betz Jr.

Betz led the charge for the Florida Legislature to pass the Mark Wandall Traffic Safety Act, which allows cities and counties to implement and use red light camera safety programs.

In 2011, he partnered with the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay and other organizations to help convince the Legislature to pass landmark sexual assault legislation, the Walk in Their Shoes Act in 2011.

Betz passed away Jan. 20 at age 61.

Complex offers 140 units of affordable housing

SEFFNER – Hillsborough County held a ribbon cutting recently to celebrate 140 units of affordable housing for seniors at the Casa Di Francesco apartment complex.

The four-story complex will contain 100 one-bedroom units and 40 two-bedroom units, all of which will be rented at below market rates to low-income residents. Apply at casadifrancesco.com/applicants.

Amenities include a clubhouse with exercise room, library, walking trail, community garden and picnic area. The complex was built on land owned by St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. It is restricted to households with at least one member who is 55 or older.

Blue Sky Communities developed the project. Hillsborough County helped provide $6.1 million in funding.

Nodal to tour in the U.S.

TAMPA – Coming off the success that Christian Nodal has had with concerts in the Mexican Republic so far this year, he brings the “Nodal Tour 2025” to the United States.

Produced by CMN (Cardenas Marketing Network), the tour includes a local stop at Tampa’s Amalie Arena at 8 p.m. Nov. 29. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

Quick Hits

Pasco County Administrator Mike Carballa talks with Pasco Corrections staff in a recent episode of the Pasco Podcast in honor of National Correctional Officers Week.
Elks Lodge Tampa #708, spearheaded by Rita Smith, hosted a breakfast event at Golden Corral in Tampa for the Veterans at Liberty Manor. Call 813-831-4280 to join the Elks Lodge.

Pasco first responder earns cybersecurity degree

May 25, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Kipper Connell Jr. crosses the stage May 7 at the Florida State Fairgrounds during Saint Leo University’s morning commencement. Connell works for Pasco County Fire Rescue and is interning at SOFWERX in Tampa. Photo courtesy of Saint Leo University

ST. LEO – Kipper Connell Jr. holds many titles: U.S. Army veteran, firefighter/paramedic, driver/engineer for Pasco County Fire Rescue, husband, father and now, college graduate.

Not only did he cross the commencement stage on May 7, but he also graduated cum laude from Saint Leo University with a Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity and earned the College of Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Data Science Dean’s Award for Excellence along the way.

Connell was surprised that he won the honor, which he received at the April 3 Celebration of Academic Excellence, especially after hearing his fellow award-winners’ bios.

“There were some amazing students achieving incredible things, and I felt truly blessed that the CARDS college felt I deserved such a high honor,” he said.

Earning his bachelor’s degree in a tech field and claiming the top honor didn’t come easy. He’s worked for Pasco County Fire Resue for about eight years and recently was promoted to driver/engineer, while attending Saint Leo.

“Our shifts are 24 hours on, 48 hours off, and that meant that often I was having to head straight to campus after getting off work in the morning or heading to work as soon as I was out of class. There were several times that the hard shift or busy night took a toll on me, but I was motivated about the education and driven to succeed. Regardless of how tired or hurt I was, I wanted and needed to be in that classroom.”

Cybersecurity and being a first responder may sound like two totally different jobs, but Connell said he finds some similarities.

“My mindset was: My job is most often the worst day of someone’s life – experiencing the emergency of a loved one or one themselves,” he said. “So, it was important that I not only do my job with integrity, but also always strive to keep training and learning new skills. Taking that mindset into cybersecurity was no different.”

Securing digital data is integral to people’s and companies’ livelihoods, he noted, and “working to be better and learn new skills could be the difference one day in preventing disaster or mitigating risks.”

Kipper Connell Jr., of Land O’ Lakes, has worked with Pasco County Fire Rescue for more than eight years and recently was promoted to driver/engineer. He graduated from Saint Leo University on May 7 with a Bachelor of Science in cybersecurity. Caroline Jorgensen/Saint Leo University

Serving His Country

Connell served in the Army for six and a half years, ending his career as an infantry squad leader. He led a seven-man team in Afghanistan which performed many roles including as a personal security detachment for VIPs and delegates, as a Quick Reaction Force, and as training instructors for local military as well as patrolling throughout the province.

The U.S. Department Veterans Affairs touted Saint Leo as an excellent university for veterans and military personnel, he said.

“They said that the school provided great resources for veterans,” Connell said. “I utilized the Veterans Student Lounge throughout my time at Saint Leo. It was great to have a community here of other veterans.”

Connell said he chose Saint Leo because of the size of the university, the community, and its proximity to his home in Land O’ Lakes. “The size and community within the school allowed me to really get to know my instructors and receive great mentorship and feedback from them,” he said. “I don’t feel like that would have been possible at another school where I would have just been a nameless face in the crowd.”

Life at Leo

Being an adult learner, first responder, and a husband and father didn’t stop Connell from being involved at the university. He was the inaugural president of the Epsilon Pi Epsilon International Honor Society for computer sciences. And in his junior year, he was a member of the PenTest Club. Students in the club come together to learn about pen testing — ethical hacking — and some participate in Capture the Flag competitions, too.

Before selecting cybersecurity as his major, Connell researched the job market and fast-growing industries. With help from the VA, he took tests to show his strengths compared to what he was interested in learning. “Cybersecurity stood out because of my interest in threat assessment and mitigation, which I specialized in while serving in the military,” he said. “It was only a small adjustment to shift that focus into the cyber world.”

Support Team

Connell found support for his pursuit of a college degree at home, at work, and at the university. “My wife and my children were instrumental in my school career here,” he said of Saint Leo. “. . . Giving me the time to do schoolwork and study. My wife encouraged me at my most stressful times and was always understanding of the time demand that allowed me to be a successful student.”

At the university, Connell found encouragement from the CARDS faculty members. Katrina Weicht, computer information systems instructor, asked him to assist with the first international computer science honor society.

“Her help both inside and outside of the classroom was inspiring,” Connell said. “Her passion for helping the Computer Science Department at Saint Leo expand and making connections within the community made our experience worthwhile.”

Dr. Ed Santiago, assistant professor of computer science, also was supportive. “He was always giving us ideas, looking at resumes, helping with projects and offering guidance,” Connell said. “He added a personal touch to the educational experience I don’t think I would have gotten at any other school.”

What’s Next

Connell recently began an internship with SOFWERX in Tampa. He said he would like to see what opportunities the internship provides.

“Ideally, I would like to stay working for Pasco County within the IT or cybersecurity field.

“I enjoy the ever-evolving aspect of cybersecurity,” Connell continued. “It is not a field that will go stagnant. Cyber threats are always evolving, and just as rapidly we see new technology emerging. This means the field will always be rewarding.”

Top college grads want to make a difference

May 24, 2025 By justin

Kristina Arwady, valedictorian for University Campus, Saint Leo University, at commencement May 7 at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Photo courtesy of Saint Leo Universit

ST. LEO – Kristina Arwady hopes to follow in her grandfather’s footsteps in health care.

He was a Mexican immigrant, who started as a janitor, worked hard and became a family medicine physician with his own practice. Just like her grandpa, Arwady is working toward becoming a physician.

“I want to follow in his footsteps, pursuing medicine, and hopefully one day having the business skill set to manage my own practice, too,” she said about her grandfather. “My ultimate goal is to attend medical school and become a physician.”

Arwady, of Altamonte Springs, was valedictorian for Saint Leo University’s Class of 2025. She graduated May 7 summa cum laude with a 4.0 grade point average and earned bachelor’s degrees in management and medical humanities: pre-med and a minor in Spanish. She also graduated from Saint Leo’s Honors Program.

“I am currently working on medical school applications, but in the meantime, I will be pursuing an MBA in health care management, continuing with graduate school at Saint Leo,” she said. “I am so excited.”

Arwady also played on the women’s soccer team, tutored other students in chemistry and biology, and served as president of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee. As an extension of her role as SAAC president, she promoted several community initiatives including a partnership between Saint Leo University Athletics and Make-A-Wish Southern Florida.

“Saint Leo has pushed me to be courageous in my academic pursuits, my sports career and my faith,” Arwady said. “Pursuing a double major and being part of the Honors Program while being a student-athlete was not easy, but Saint Leo gave me a pathway to do just that.

“I had the courage to come back from three knee surgeries and return to play each time, all because of the Saint Leo Athletics staff and the other amazing people who supported me along the way,” she continued. “With my faith, Saint Leo encouraged me to defy the norm and be different than the rest of the world, trying my best to choose Christ and follow and surrender everything to him. I am so grateful.”

Jacqueline Pollok, salutatorian for University Campus, Saint Leo University, at commencement May 7 at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Photo courtesy of Saint Leo University

Salutatorian Jacqueline Pollok

A keen interest in the world helped Saint Leo University’s salutatorian, Jacqueline Pollok, select her fields of study.

Pollok, who is from Dade City, graduated summa cum laude with bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice: homeland security and international studies. She also graduated from the Honors Program and was the recipient of the 2025 Clara McDonald Olson Scholarship Excellence Award.

“I chose my majors in international studies and criminal justice because of my deep interest in global security and the ways that international events and policies shape our world,” Pollok said. “International studies provided me with the necessary historical and cultural context to understand the dynamics between countries, which is essential for comprehending current global issues. Criminal justice offers me a deeper understanding of the legal systems and enforcement structures that help maintain order and security, both domestically and internationally.”

Pollok was a member of the Alpha Phi Sigma Criminal Justice Honor Society, the Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society, and the Sigma Iota Rho Honor Society for International Studies.

Pollok presented a paper, “The Influence of the Southern Border Crisis on International Human Trafficking,” at the Florida Conference of Historians, a professional academic conference held earlier this year in Punta Gorda.

Experiential learning also was an important part of her academic journey.

Pollok completed three diverse internships. She served as an undergraduate researcher, examining the relationship between sport, global culture and World War II; worked as a customer service representative for a local business; and interned at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Tampa, assisting the Economic Crime and Transnational Organized Crime divisions.

Her community service efforts included volunteering at the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Office in Dade City, working weekly at the Scared Heart Earl Childhood Center in 2022, and volunteering with the Pasco County Teen Court Program in 2021, helping support juvenile rehabilitation initiatives.

“I plan to pursue a professional role that allows me to engage with issues related to national security, law or international affairs – areas I’ve grown passionate about through my academic work and internships,” Pollok said. “I also intend to pursue graduate work in security studies to strengthen my expertise and prepare for long-term career opportunities in public service.”

YMCA to build branch in Wesley Chapel

May 23, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

WESLEY CHAPEL – The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA plans to build a $35 million branch to serve the Wesley Chapel area.

The new YMCA is expected to open in summer 2026 at 4379 Wellbeing Way, at the southwest corner of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard and Eagleston Boulevard.

Stephanie Conners, president and CEO for BayCare Health System, said the land for the new YMCA was made possible through a lease with her organization.

“With our newly opened Wesley Chapel hospital, BayCare saw the YMCA as a natural partner. Both organizations have a shared mission to improve the overall health and well-being of our communities,” Conners said. “We are excited to have them as our neighbor and to work together to bring new resources to Wesley Chapel.”

This Y will serve as a community hub, empowering people to live their healthiest lives.

The branch will include a main family facility building, an aquatic center with a lap pool, a teaching pool and a family adventure pool. There will be a child watch area, spa-inspired locker rooms, group exercise studios and a wellness floor with fitness options.

The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA said the new branch will improve the health and well-being of the community in the following ways:

Create more than 300 new jobs.
Reduce accidental drowning by teaching kids to swim and be safe around water.
Help reduce the obesity epidemic in adults and children by offering the community chronic disease prevention programs.
Give the nearly 20,000 nearby seniors a welcoming place where they can exercise, socialize and celebrate health.
Strengthen and support cancer survivors and their families through the Y’s Survivorship & Wellness Program Powered by Moffitt.
Nurture the potential of the more than 27,000 youth who live within minutes of the project by offering after-school care, youth sports, summer camps and teen leadership programs .
Create a community “hub” by offering the more than 40,000 households who live within minutes of the location a place to connect and be healthy.

“Every community deserves a great YMCA where kids can grow in health and confidence, adults can progress along their path to better well-being, and seniors can thrive in a welcoming social environment,” said Matt Mitchell, president and CEO of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA. “We are excited and look forward to engaging the growing Wesley Chapel area.”

Heritage Arts Center Association awards two scholarships

May 22, 2025 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pasco County students Colette Hanke and Lindsey Overland show off award-winning work. Photo courtesy of Heritage Arts Center Association

DADE CITY – The Heritage Arts Center Association gives a $1,000 Nereim Fine Arts Award each year in honor and memory of founding members Gordon and Jean Nereim.

Their love of the arts lives on through this award. Talented seniors in Pasco County schools submit artwork (paintings, sculpture, drawing or photography) each spring to be considered.

Due to a generous grant from the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation this year, the organization was able to present $1,000 art awards to seniors Colette Hanke and Lindsey Overland.

Colette, of Academy at the Lakes, has had a fascination with art since childhood. Colette submitted an acrylic painting, created to experiment with the “cell shading” style. She used a white charcoal pencil to sketch out the piece and then blocked out the light and shadow for the process. Her painting depicted an artist’s workspace, with a blank canvas – suggesting the endless possibilities of creation. Her teacher is Matthew Paltoo.

Lindsey’s primary field of interest is illustration. The Cypress Creek High School senior plans to attend Ringling College of Art and Design. She submitted a mixed media piece of birds with pearl craft stickers on canvas, which reflected the theme of femininity and connectedness. Her teacher is Zach Krieder

Because of the large number and quality of entries this year, the Heritage Arts Center Association also named Brianna Mercado and Alenna Raza as Honorable Mention artists.

The Heritage Arts Center Association will feature these four artists at the Moonlight and Ivory concert and art show held Nov. 1 at Dade City’s Woman’s Club.

On the web: heritagearts.org