The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

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Pasco superintendent: Past semester was filled with distractions

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I’m a big believer in history and pausing at least for a second and looking backwards.

Today’s the start of semester two, which means we ended semester one. 

Semester one was a very, very challenging semester. And I think we need to recognize that because there’s some issues that we are seeing as a result of that. 

Just pause and take a moment to reflect. 

In August and September, we saw an exponential, remarkable increase in the number of school threats that disrupted many of our schools and their academic time daily in the months of August and September. 

By the grace of God, those numbers seem to be going down. It is still a challenge. But it was at a crisis level in those first two months. 

That brought us into October, where we had back-to-back hurricanes, where school was closed in essence, for almost two weeks straight. As you know, when you close school for two weeks straight, you lose routine. You lose rhythm. You lose kind of discipline structures. 

We have to start all that back up, which brought us right into the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas. 

We experienced significant disruptions during semester one. And our student data is showing that. 

Our student data is showing that our students need stability. They need classroom time. Our teachers need to be able to support and block out that distraction.

As we head into semester two, we have time. We have time to make up those academic losses, if you will. But we have to lock arms and we have to work together to commit to allow our teachers to be in those classrooms to focus on what matters most – student learning  – especially in the second semester.

The reason why Is there is no semester three. This is it. For many of our students, this is the time. This is graduation time. This is the opportunity for achievement. This is acceleration time. 

I’m mentioning that to you because semester one was a challenge filled with distractions. I hope all of us, and I know we will, but let’s work together to protect that learning time in semester two. 

Support our teachers, so they can focus on what matters most. And that’s our student learning. 

 

Superintendent John Legg made these remarks Jan. 13 during the Pasco County Schools school board meeting.

Simmer down, we’re warming up the slow cooker

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With healthier eating on the forefront of people’s minds going into the new year, the slow cooker is a great option to eliminate the temptation of stopping for fast food after a long day when you know that a meal is waiting for you once you get home.  

I use my slow cooker regularly, especially in the colder months when soups and chilis make the perfect comfort food.  

If yours has been collecting dust, or you made it your New Year’s resolution to eat healthier meals at home, I encourage you to make your slow cooker one of your go-to kitchen appliances.  

Or, at least experiment with it and see how you can fit it into your lifestyle.  

The history of the slow cooker as we know it goes back to the 1930s.  

But the concept of it dates back to the 18th century, when Jewish families in eastern Europe would prepare a traditional stew for Shabbat.  

Because cooking wasn’t allowed on Shabbat, the day of rest, they would bring pots of stew to a bakery the day before and leave it in the ovens overnight.  

The residual heat from the ovens as they would slowly cool would cook the stew for several hours, according to Smithsonian Magazine.

Fast forward to the 1930s, when electrical engineer and Jewish American inventor Irving Nachumsohn started his own company focusing on his inventions, Naxon Utilities Corp.  

He was aware of the stories of families using bakery ovens after hours to cook stew on Shabbat because his family experienced it themselves and he grew up hearing about it.  

This was his inspiration for the “low and slow” cooking method, while also solving the problem of allowing a warm family meal to be prepared without heating up the home in the summer.

He was granted a patent in 1940 for what he called the Naxon Beanery, but it didn’t gain much traction, with mostly coffee shops and diners being marketed to.

The turning point came when he sold his business to Kansas City’s Rival Manufacturing, when they acquired multiple products invented by Nachumsohn.  

At first, the slow cooker was seen as more of an afterthought.  

The company’s team of home economists were assigned to assess the Naxon Beanery’s practicality, where they quickly realized just how versatile it is.  

It was renamed Crock Pot, and the home economists created numerous dishes to go in a recipe booklet that came with each device.  

It was revealed by Rival at Chicago’s 1971 National Housewares Show.  

The timing was perfect: with more women entering the workforce in the ‘70s, advertising was heavily focused on working moms.  

Sales went from $2 million in 1971 to $93 million in 1975.  

Other companies eventually entered the slow cooker market, and now 70% of American households are said to have a slow cooker.  

There’s nothing like being welcomed home by the smell of dinner after a long day.

Besides saving time, the slow cooker also saves money on your electric bill and grocery budget; it uses less electricity than the oven and doesn’t overheat the house when cooking in the summer, and it tenderizes cheaper cuts of meat.  

Cooking food on “low” will cook the food in six to ten hours, and cooking food on “high” will cook it in four to six hours.

 

Slow Cooker Pork Roast (Iowa State Extension)

Ingredients:

Juice of one orange

Juice of one lime

2 teaspoons garlic powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/2 cup water

1-3 pound pork roast (recipe nutrition was analyzed using a 3 pound pork loin roast)

1 onion, sliced

 

Instructions:

  1. Stir the orange juice, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, salt, ground black pepper, and water together in a small bowl.
  2. Spray a slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
  3. Cut the pork roast into large chunks (about 3 inches by 3 inches). Place in bottom of slow cooker.
  4. Pour the juice mixture over the pork. Top with the onion slices.
  5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Pork should be cooked to a minimum temperature of 145°F.
  6. Shred the pork with a fork and serve.

 

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.

 

What’s Happening (01/22/25): SNL alum to perform at Tampa Theatre

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Fred Armisen is a comedian, writer, producer and musician. Photo courtesy of Tampa Theatre

TAMPA – Fred Armisen will bring his “Comedy for Musicians But Everyone is Welcome” tour to Tampa Theatre. 

Armisen is an 11-season veteran of “Saturday Night Live,” but he has stayed busy with acting credits in “Portlandia,” “Wednesday” and “Los Espookys.” 

He also voices characters in the hit animated “Super Mario Bros” movie as well as characters in “Big Mouth” and “The Mitchells vs. The Machines.” 

Armisen is currently starring in the Broadway play “All In.” He also served as band leader of the 8G Band on “Late Night With Seth Meyers” from 2014 to 2024. 

Tickets cost $48.50 plus applicable taxes and fees at the Franklin Street Box Office and at tampatheatre.org. 

 

Jan. 22

Baby Storytime

Babies, ages 0-1, and their caregivers gain a love for reading during Baby Storytime, a lap-sit program, at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

10:15-10:40 & 11:15-11:40 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Toddler Storytime

Children, ages 1-2, build literacy skills during Toddler Storytime with stories, songs and activities at Regency Park Library. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

10:15-10:45 & 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Babytime

Babies, ages 0-2, engage in a lap-sit storytime for babies and their caregivers at South Holiday Library. Registration is not required but spots are first come, first serve. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday 

 

Toddler Storytime

Ms. Shaina leads a Toddler Storytime with stories, songs and other activities for children, ages 3-5, at Hugh Embry Library. Space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

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

 

Toddler Storytime

Ms. Laura leads a Toddler Storytime with stories, songs and early literacy-based activities at New River Library. Space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

10:15-11 a.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Storytime

Children, 0-5, enjoy songs, stories and crafts during a storytime at Centennial Park Library’s children’s room. Registration is not required; however, space and supplies are limited. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

10:15-11 a.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Teen’s Makerspace

Teens can engage in open art using the maker cart in Hugh Embry Library’s teen room. The maker cart will be set up with materials for a passive activity. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Laura leads a Preschool Storytime with stories, songs, and early literacy-based activities at New River Library. Space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

11 a.m.-noon; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Shaina leads preschool storytime with stories, songs and other activities for children, ages 3-5, at Hugh Embry Library. Space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

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

 

Children’s Makerspace

Children use Keva planks to hone their engineering skills at Hugh Embry Library’s Ingenuity Lab Makerspace. An introduction and tour of the makerspace will be provided for new participants, along with safety rules. Participants will have one hour, including cleanup time, to complete their activity. The event requires parents to sign waivers for participants. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

12:30-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 

 

Book Club

The Recipe Readers Club, where book lovers and foodies unite, holds its first meeting at Regency Park Library. Each month, the club pairs a themed book with an exciting culinary adventure, and this time, it’s all about the art of mixology – craft cocktail kits. Grab your favorite kit and a good book, and come ready to discuss both the stories we read and the drinks we craft. Registration is required. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

2-3 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Let’s Get Retro

South Holiday Library offers old school crafting for adults during Let’s Get Retro. Registration is required. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

2-4 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday 

 

Collage Creations

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center hosts Collage Creations, in which students use old photos, magazine images and pages from old books to create collages. Materials and instruction will be provided; however, students are invited to bring photos and other collage materials. Registration is required. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

2-4 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

ClayWorks D.I.Y. Slab Mugs

Youth, ages 8-18, make a custom mug by hand during ClayWorks D.I.Y. Slab Mugs at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Participants must complete waivers beforehand. Patrons will return on Feb. 4 to finish their pieces. Registration is required. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

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

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack instructs a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. Space is limited. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Chess Club 

Chess Master-rated coach Rick McKnight teaches children and teens how to play chess during Chess Club at New River Library. The club is open to kids and teens in grades 4-12. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

4-5:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Teen Advisory Board

The Teen Advisory Board provides teens a chance to provide input into programs and materials at Centennial Park Library while meeting new friends. Volunteers can earn one hour of service for participation in the board. Teen Advisory Board will now include a half hour of gaming after pizza and a discussion. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

5-6 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Chess Club

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

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

 

Book Club

The Ales and Tales Book Club discusses “Beloved” by Toni Morrison at The Loop. Recommended for ages 21 and older. Registration is required. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

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

 

Jan. 23

Storytime Fun 

Read, sing, dance and more with your toddler or preschooler in a fun, interactive storytime at Zephyrhills Public Library.  Space is limited. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Career Source

Career Source offers assistance with employment searches, resume writing, interviewing preparation, EmployFlorida assistance at Centennial Park Library. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

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

 

Woodworking Open Build

Volunteers or staff will be on hand to assist creatives with woodworking projects during an open build at Land O’ Lakes Library. Bring plans and materials. This activity is intended for adults or youth, ages 9 and older, with an accompanying guardian. All Makerspace activities require closed toe shoes and completed forms you can get at the service desk or online at pascolibraries.org/makerspaces/the-foundry/. Registration is required. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

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

 

Preschool Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library offers a Preschool Storytime with songs, stories and crafts in its children’s room. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

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

 

Baby Storytime

Regency Park Library offers a Baby Storytime for babies up to 1 year old and their caregivers. Spots for the lap-sit program are first come, first serve. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Becky leads a Preschool Storytime with stories, songs and other activities at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Space is limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Children, ages 3-5, and their grownups participate in playing, reading, singing, moving and other activities to build a strong early literacy foundation. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Children’s Makerspace

Children use Keva planks to hone their engineering skills at Hugh Embry Library’s Ingenuity Lab Makerspace. An introduction and tour of the makerspace will be provided for new participants, along with safety rules. Participants will have one hour, including cleanup time, to complete their activity. The event requires parents to sign waivers for participants. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 

 

Teen’s Makerspace

Teens can engage in open art using the maker cart in Hugh Embry Library’s teen room. The maker cart will be set up with materials for a passive activity. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 

 

Preschool Storytime

Children, ages 3-5, along with their caregivers enjoy stories, songs, and assorted activities during a Preschool Storytime at Regency Park Library. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

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

 

UF-IFAS Gardening

Kate Kaste, program manager for the Florida-Friendly Landscaping program at UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County,  leads a presentation at New River Library on the best ways to protect cold-sensitive plants in your landscape. Seating is limited. Register at eventbrite.com. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

2-3:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack instructs a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. Space is limited. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Breakfast Basics

Tweens, in grades 4-7, join Regency Park Library to learn how to make breakfast basics during Tween Try It: Breakfast Basics. Registration is required. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

4:30-5:30 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Library Supporters

The Friends of the Zephyrhills Public Library holds its quarterly board meeting at the library.. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

5:15-5:45 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Yarn for a Cause

Yarn enthusiasts convene for a weekly gathering at New River Library. Participants talk about projects and share tips and suggestions. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

Name That Tune!

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center hosts Name that Tune, featuring songs from the 1950s to now. The team that guesses the most correct songs wins. Register as a team of 3 or 4 people to play. This program is for adults. Registration is required. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

6:30-7:30 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Jan. 24

Book Sale

The Friends of the Library holds a mini-book sale at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

Various times; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 

 

Thrifty Crafters

Make a creative and thrifty craft project at Zephyrhills Public Library. Registration is required. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Toddler Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library offers a Toddler Storytime for children, ages 1-2, and their caregivers. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

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

 

Book Sale

Friends of the Library holds a book sale at New River Library. Proceeds support library programs. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Hello Homeschool

Join South Holiday Library for a look at what the Pasco County Recycling has to offer during Hello Homeschool. The group will make a recycled book hedgehog. This program is recommended for learners, ages 6-12, but other ages are welcome. Children under age 6 must have a caregiver present to assist them during the program. All participants under 12 must have a caregiver remain in the library. Adults do not need to register to stay with their child. Call ahead if you anticipate more than 1-2 adults in your party. Registration is required for each minor. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

11 a.m.-noon; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday 

 

Creative Coloring for Adults

The Friends of the South Holiday Library presents Creative Coloring for Adults. Materials will be provided including gel pens, colored pencils, markers and many coloring pages. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

2-3 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday 

 

Spill the Tea Book Club

The Spill the Tea Book Club discusses “Fiction Can Be Murder” by Becky Clark at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Food Trucks

The Fourth Friday Food Truck Rally attracts the likes of Coco’s Latin Cuisine, Piccola Pizzetta, Westchase BBQ and Nacho Wagon to Avalon Park. There is no fee to enter the rally. avalonparkwesleychapel.com

5-8 p.m.; 4424 Friendly Way, Wesley Chapel

 

Concerts

Tap Into Soul performs during the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation’s 2024-25 Performing Arts Series at the PHSC Performing Arts Center. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.

7 p.m.; 10230 Ridge Road, New Port Richey

 

Theatrical Performance

Richey Suncoast Theatre presents “Into the Woods.” Tickets for performances are available at richeysuncoasttheatre.com/event-calendar. Contact the box office at 727-842-6777 or for group bookings or special accommodations. 

7 p.m.; 6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey

 

Jan 25

Genealogy Society

The Genealogy Society meets at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

9-11:30 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Model Trains

Regal Railways presents a model train show/sale with more than 70 tables of vendors at Hernando Fairgrounds. There will be a running train layout.  A food vendor will be there to sell food. Admission costs $6 for adults. Kids, ages 12 and younger, get in free. Credit Cards accept to go into the show. Prepay at regalrailways.com. Call Joe at 727-244-1341 if interested in being a vendor.

9 a.m.-2 p.m.; 6436 Broad St., Brooksville

 

Art Workshop

Kerry Stratton-Waltz conducts a workshop, “Creative Techniques with Watercolor,” with the West Pasco Art Guild. Register for workshops by emailing or visiting westpascoartguild.org for information.

9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; 6206 Jefferson St., New Port Richey

 

Book Sale

Friends of the Library holds a book sale at New River Library. Proceeds support library programs. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

10 a.m.-2 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Quilt Show

As part of Dade City’s annual Kumquat Festival, the East Pasco Quilt Guild displays an array of locally crafted quilts at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Kids Aloft

Children can pop into the Centennial Park Library to build LEGO bricks during Kids Aloft: LEGO Free Build. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

10-4 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Ham Radio

The East Pasco Amateur Radio Society hosts its Winter Field Day event at the San Antonio Train Depot Museum. Local amateur radio operators will be on the air for 24 hours straight. This is a practice for emergency radio communications. The free event is open to the public. Call Chris at 224-221-5064 or visit eparsonline.org for details. 

Noon; 32627 Railroad Ave., San Antonio

 

Book Club

Bring the book you are currently reading or check one out to read day of during the Silent Book Club for Adults at Regency Park Library. There is no assigned reading at this book club. The first 45 minutes will be independent silent reading with an option to discuss after or to keep reading. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

2-3 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

ClayWorks D.I.Y.

People, ages 16 and older, make a custom mug by hand at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Wavers must be completed beforehand. Patrons will return on Jan. 25 to finish their pieces. Registration is required. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

2-4 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Conversation Corner

Trained tutors at New River Library help with English reading, writing and speaking skills for English as a second language learners and English-speaking learners who want to read or write better. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

Theatrical Performance

Richey Suncoast Theatre presents “Into the Woods.” Tickets for performances are available at richeysuncoasttheatre.com/event-calendar. Contact the box office at 727-842-6777 or for group bookings or special accommodations. 

7 p.m.; 6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey

 

Book Sale

The Friends of the Library holds a mini-book sale at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

Various times; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 

 

Jan. 26

Theatrical Performance

Richey Suncoast Theatre presents “Into the Woods.” Tickets for performances are available at richeysuncoasttheatre.com/event-calendar. Contact the box office at 727-842-6777 or for group bookings or special accommodations. 

2 p.m.; 6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey

 

Jan. 27 

Story Time

Infants, ages 0-18 months, learn about the joys of books, rhymes and music during Baby Bookworms Story Time at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

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

 

Chair Yoga

Dianne Orcher leads a chair yoga class at Land O’ Lakes Library. The class is taught in seated and standing positions using a chair as a prop. Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library sponsors the program. Registration is required. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Open Art

Hugh Embry Library offers an Ingenuity Lab Makerspace for Kids with materials and activities that encourage children to create and explore. Participants will make whatever they want from the materials provided. Waivers must be signed beforehand. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Jan. 28, 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. & Jan. 29, 12:30-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Visual Arts

Junior Polo, of Prodigy Cultural Arts, leads free weekly visual arts classes for kids, ages 8-16, at Centennial Park Library. Registration through Prodigy is required. Applications are available at the service desk. Email Fignole Desir at or call 813-558-5212 to register.

1-4 & 4:30-7 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Anime Club 

Teens in grades 9-12 learn to draw basic manga/anime figures during an Anime Club meeting at Hugh Embry Library. All materials will be provided. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

3-4 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

ClayWorks D.I.Y. 

Make custom Tic-Tac-Toe boards and game pieces at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Sign a waiver before the program. Ages 8 to 18 are welcome. Patrons will return Jan. 27 to finish their pieces. Registration is required. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

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

 

STEAM Adventure

Regency Park Library hosts Youth STEAM Adventure with cool winter activities. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

5-6 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Republican Party

Troy Stevenson serves as the speaker for the Central Pasco Republican Party meeting at Heritage Park. Stevenson was elected in December to lead the Pasco Republican Party. The club will hear Stevenson’s future plans and vision for the party. Refreshments followed by the meeting at 6:30 p.m. Call Sandy Graves at 813-817-3011 for details. 

6 p.m.; 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

 

Book Club

The Not Done Book Club discusses “The Woman in the Library” by Sulari Gentill at BarrieHaus Beer Co Trinity. Recommended for ages 21+ Registration is required. Call 727-834-3331 for details.
7-8 p.m.; 9945 Trinity Blvd, Trinity

Jan. 27-30

Lego Build

The maker cart in the teen room at Hugh Embry Library is set up with materials for a creative activity. The Ingenuity Lab will host a Lego Build Challenge this week. The teen room is dedicated to kids in grades 6-12. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Jan. 28

Medicare/Medicaid & SNAP Help

Zephyrhills Public Library offers help to apply for QMB state buy-in program to help pay for Medicare part B premium, “Medicaid” and food stamps. Call José Rodríguez at 813-420-3013 for details. 

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

 

Book Sale

The Friends of the Library holds a weekly book sale at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

10 a.m.-noon; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Resource Fair

Looking for information on healthcare, employment, and county services? Stop by South Holiday Library and meet different social services and community partners in one place. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

10 a.m.-noon; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Career Source

Career Source offers assistance with employment searches, resume writing, interviewing preparation, EmployFlorida assistance and more at Centennial Park Library. Call 727-834-3204 for details. 

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

 

Woodworking Open Build

Land O’ Lakes Library offers a Woodworking Open Build. Use the library’s tools to work on an approved project. Bring your plans and materials. This activity is intended for adults or youth ages 9 years & older with a guardian. Sign a waiver form beforehand at pascolibraries.org/makerspaces/the-foundry/. Registration is required. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

10 a.m. – 1 p.m. & Jan. 30,  10 a.m. – 1 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Toddler Storytime

Ms. Laura leads a Toddler Storytime with stories, songs, and early literacy-based activities at New River Library. Space is limited. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

10:15-11 a.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Story Time

Children, ages 1-3, engage in stories and songs during Bookworms Story Time at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

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

 

Storytime 

Ms. Jenn leads a storytime with stories, songs, games and a craft at South Holiday Library. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

10:15-11 a.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Laura leads a Preschool Storytime with stories, songs, and early literacy-based activities at New River Library. Space is limited. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

11 a.m.-noon; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Tai Chi

Zephyrhills Public Library hosts a basic tai chi class. Space is limited. Call 813-780-0064 to register. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Story Time

Children, ages 1-3, engage in stories, songs, and imagination during Little Bookworms Story Time at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

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

 

Book Club 

The Mystery Book Club discusses “Shutter” by Ramona Emerson at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

2-3 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Winter Coasters

Regency Park Library  hosts an afternoon of painting with a project that allows patrons to create winter-themed coasters. Registration is required. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

2-3 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

English Conversation

Claudia, of South Holiday Library, hosts an English Conversation Club for adults of all levels to practice their English. Email to register.

2-3:30 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Tween/Teen Gaming

Youth play video and board games during Tween/Teen Gaming at Zephyrhills Public Library. Snacks will be provided. The event is recommended for ages 9 and older. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Therapy Dogs

Children practice reading to certified therapy dogs from Sharing Our World Therapy Dogs at Regency Park Library. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

4:30-5:30 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Try It Tuesday

School-age children make a heart plushie during Try It Tuesday at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

5-6:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Art Closet

Centennial Park Library has a free art closet to make art accessible to all and people can pick up supplies and discover something they love. Supplies include jewelry findings, beads, yarn, knitting needles, crochet hooks, brushes, paint and art books.. The offering is made possible by the Friends of the Centennial Park Library and donors. Call 727-834-3204 for details. 

5-7 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Improv Comedy

Richey Suncoast Theatre presents “Fairy Tales Gone Local: Out of the Woods in Pasco County!” at Peace Hall. Tickets are distributed through partner organizations and available to reserve online. They are free with a suggested donation of $10 at https://ci.ovationtix.com/36105/production/1225494.

7 p.m.; 5600-5698 Sims Lane, New Port Richey

 

Learn to Paint and Draw (Better)

Earthchild Sarah leads a class for adults on learning how to paint and draw (better) at Centennial Park Library. Bring a sketch book if you have one but materials will be provided. Registration is required. Call 727-834-3204 for details. 

5:30-7:30 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Jan. 29

Baby Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library offers Baby Storytime, a lap-sit program meant to instill the love of reading in children at an early age. It is suitable for babies up to age 1 and their caregivers. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

10:15-10:40 & 11:15-11:40 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Babytime

Children, ages 0-2, and their caregivers engage in a storytime with songs, stories and play at South Holiday Library. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Toddler Storytime

Children, ages 1-2, engage in stories, songs and activities during Toddler Storytime at Regency Park Library. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

10:15-10:45 & 11:15-11:45 a.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Toddler Storytime

Ms. Shaina leads a Toddler Storytime for stories, songs and activities at Hugh Embry Library. Space is limited. Children, ages 3-5, and their grownups participate in playing, reading, singing, movement and other activities. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

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

 

Storytime

Children, ages 0-5, engage in songs, stories and crafts at Centennial Park Library’s children’s room. Space and supplies are limited. Call 727-834-3204 for details. 

10:15-11 a.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Toddler Storytime

Ms. Laura leads a Toddler Storytime with stories, songs, and early literacy-based activities at New River Library. Space is limited. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

10:15-11 a.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Laura leads a Preschool Storytime with stories, songs, and early literacy-based activities at New River Library. Space is limited. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

11 a.m.-noon; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Shaina leads a Preschool Storytime with stories, songs and other activities at Hugh Embry Library. Space is limited. Children, ages 3-5, and their grownups participate in playing, reading, singing and movement. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

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

 

Dulcimer Jam

Bring a dulcimer and join fellow dulcimer enthusiasts for an informal jam session at Hugh Embry Library. The program is intended for those with (at least) basic skills. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

2-3:30 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Creative Relaxation

A mental health professional leads a monthly class for adults that includes a short meditation followed by an expressive arts activity designed to help reduce stress at Regency Park Library. Registration is required. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

2-3:30 p.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Paper Chase

South Holiday Library presents paper crafting for adults. Registration is required. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

2-4 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack leads a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. Library does not provide the mat. Space is limited. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

4-5 p.m. & Jan. 30,  4-5 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Tween Craft

Join Centennial Park Library to make slime with instant snow inside during Tween Craft: Snow Slime. Registration is required. Call 727-834-3204 for details. 

4-5 p.m.; 5740 Moog Road, Holiday

 

Chess Club

Chess Master-Rated coach Rick McKnight explains how to play chess to youth in grades 4-12 at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

4-5:30 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

ClayWorks Open Studio

Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center offers open ClayWorks studio hours. Time in the studio is by registration only. Access to the pottery wheels is first come, first served. Glaze your piece on Jan. 29. Prior ceramics experience is recommended. Sign a waiver beforehand. Ages 16 and older are welcome. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

5-7 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

Chess Club

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

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

 

Jan. 30

Storytime Fun

Toddlers and preschoolers read, sing and dance in a fun, interactive storytime at Zephyrhills Public Library. Space is limited; however, registration is not required. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Career Source

Career Source offers assistance with employment searches, resume writing, interviewing preparation, EmployFlorida assistance and more at Centennial Park Library. Call 727-834-3204 for details. 

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

 

Preschool Storytime

Children join for a Preschool Storytime with songs, stories and crafts in the children’s room at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

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

 

Baby Storytime

Children, ages 0-1, and their caregivers develop a love of reading during a lap-sit Baby Storytime at Regency Park Library. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

10:15-10:45 a.m.; 9701 Little Road, New Port Richey

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Becky leads a Preschool Storytime for children, ages 3-5, with stories, songs, and other fun activities at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Space is limited. Children and their grownups participate in playing, reading, singing, movement and other activities. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

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

 

Book Club

A book club discusses “Crying in H Mart” by Michelle Zauner at Land O Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Ingenuity Lab 

Hugh Embry Library offers an Ingenuity Lab with materials and activities that encourage children to create and explore. This week, participants will make whatever they want from the materials provided. Waivers must be signed beforehand. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

10:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Preschool Story Time

Children, ages 3-5, along with their caregiver engage stories, songs and activities at Regency Park Library. Call 727-861-3049 for details. 

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

 

Mountain Dulcimer

Learn to play a mountain dulcimer in an eight-part course at Hugh Embry Library. A limited number of dulcimers will be provided. Registration for all eight classes is required. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

2-3 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack leads a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat. Library does not provide the mat. Space is limited. Call 813-780-0064 for details. 

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

 

Yarn for a Cause

Yarn enthusiasts meet to talk about projects and share tips and suggestions at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Jan. 31

Toddler Storytime

Land O Lakes Library offers a Toddler Storytime for children, ages 1-2, and their caregiver. Call 813-929-1214 for details. 

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

 

Conversation Corner 

Trained tutors help improve English language skills at Hugh Embry Library. This program is for adult learners of English as a second or foreign language and English-speaking learners who want to improve their reading and writing skills. Call 352-567-3576 for details. 

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

 

Tech Help

A staff member is available for one-on-one tech help at New River Library. You will be emailed your appointment time. Each appointment is 20 minutes long. Registration is required. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

1-2 p.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Ukulele Jam 

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

1-2:30 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Adult Coloring 

Friends of the South Holiday Library hosts Creative Coloring for Adults at South Holiday Library. Materials will be provided including gel pens, colored pencils, markers and many coloring pages. Call 727-834-3331 for details. 

2-3 p.m.; 4649 Mile Stretch Drive, Holiday

 

Theatrical Performance

Richey Suncoast Theatre presents “Into the Woods.” Tickets for performances are available at richeysuncoasttheatre.com/event-calendar. Contact the box office at 727-842-6777 or for group bookings or special accommodations. 

7 p.m.; 6237 Grand Blvd., New Port Richey

 

Comedy Show

Comedian Becky Robinson brings her Members Only Club Tour to the Tampa Theatre. You may know her as the Entitled Housewife, the outspoken viral golf character Becky, or from her time as a regular on MTV’s “Wild ‘N Out with Nick Cannon.” Tickets cost $39.50-$59.50 plus taxes and fees. Buy them at tampatheatre.org.

8 p.m.; 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa

 

MOSI’s Nikon Small World exhibit offers unique perspective 

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Nikon Small World is not just an exploration of science, but also a celebration of art. People with an interest in science and photography will get something from the exhibit. Shown are octopus eggs. Photo courtesy of Nikon Small Summer

TAMPA – Discover a hidden world of beauty and science at the Nikon Small World exhibit, which opened Jan. 18 at MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science & Industry. 

This temporary exhibit celebrates “microphotography,” showcasing award-winning photos of creatures and objects that are tiny or microscopic blown up to larger-than-life size.

The exhibit will highlight the winners of the 50th Nikon Small World competition, offering guests a chance to peer into the ultra-tiny universe that surrounds us. From the intricate details of slime mold to the mesmerizing patterns of octopus eggs, each image captures a unique and awe-inspiring aspect of the microscopic world.

“This is science and art, coming together, to create absolutely extraordinary images,” MOSI CEO John Graydon Smith said. “There is beauty all around us, but it’s in a microscopic world that’s normally beyond our sight. Nikon Small World captures the best of this unseen art and takes us literally 100 times closer so we can connect with it for the first time.”

These images will be presented at a scale that allows you to see every detail, offering a new perspective on the things we can’t normally observe with the naked eye. 

The exhibit includes a variety of subjects – from the beauty of brain cells (the first-place winner at 100-times magnification) to the peculiar intricacies of algae and insects.

The Nikon Small World exhibit is included with MOSI admission and will be on display at MOSI in North Tampa through March 8. 

Black Love series celebrates superheroes of ‘Black nerd’ culture

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TAMPA – Tampa Theatre’s Black Love classics series will explore “blerds.” Shorthand for “Black nerds,” blerd culture celebrates those heroes – both super and everyday – who stir the imagination and spark creativity. 

This year’s series, presented by Tampa Electric, reflects Tampa Theatre’s commitment to representation and the magic of the movies with “Rise of the Blerds” every Sunday in February:

“Movies have the unique ability to turn an intimately personal story into a shared experience,” said John Bell, Tampa Theatre president and CEO. “Watching a movie as a group with other members of your community invites conversation. It gives us the space to compare our own experiences with what we see on the screen and find those emotions that connect us as human beings.”

Tickets for the Black Love classics series cost $10 ($7 for Tampa Theatre members) and are available at the historic Franklin Street Box Office and online at www.TampaTheatre.org.

 

Black Panther (2018)                            

2h 14m / PG-13 / Superhero
3 pm Feb. 2 

The groundbreaking Marvel movie follows T’Challa, the newly crowned king of Wakanda, as he faces challenges to his throne and must protect his nation from external threats. The OSCAR-winning film is celebrated for its rich cultural representation, visuals and performances, particularly by Chadwick Boseman as T’Challa.

Guests are invited to dress as their favorite superheroes for photo opportunities and an on-stage costume parade hosted by Tampa-based nerd-core rapper Swell Rell before the film. While the film celebrates fictional superheroes, guests are invited to come meet the real superheroes in our community with a family-friendly “Touch A Truck” event on Franklin Street from 2 to 3 p.m. featuring first responders, TECO line trucks and others who aided the clean-up efforts after the October hurricanes.

Fast Color (2018)                                   

1h 40m / PG-13 / Sci-Fi, Drama
3 p.m. Feb. 9

This superhero drama, directed by Julia Hart, follows Ruth (Gugu Mbatha-Raw), a woman with supernatural abilities. When Ruth’s powers are discovered, she is forced to go on the run, leading her back to her estranged family.

Guests are invited to come early (2 p.m.) to meet some of Tampa’s blerd community and join in a conversation about centuries-old stereotypes, pop culture and claiming their space.

 

Nope (2022)                                              

2h 10m / R / Supernatural Horror
3 p.m. Feb. 16

Siblings OJ and Emerald Haywood encounter a mysterious UFO on their horse ranch in California. As they attempt to capture footage of the phenomenon, they uncover unsettling truths and face terrifying challenges. Writer/Director Jordan Peele (“Get Out,” “Us”) blends elements of horror, suspense and social commentary.
Guests are encouraged to stay after the film for a deep-dive discussion into Peele’s storytelling and directorial choices.

Hidden Figures (2016)                          

2h 7m / PG / Biography

3 p.m. Feb. 23

Based on a true story, “Hidden Figures” is the story of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan and Mary Jackson: three Black women whose mathematical expertise at NASA played a crucial role in the success of early space missions. Despite facing racial and gender discrimination, their brilliance and determination helped break barriers and pave the way for future generations.

Guests are encouraged to stay after the film for a panel discussion featuring local Black women who are making waves in STEM-based careers.

County opening sixth full-service tax office 

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LAND O’ LAKES – Tax Collector Mike Fasano and various members of county government, local business and community leaders will break ground on the sixth full-service location for the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office.  

Situated to serve the Angeline and nearby communities, this office will provide a location that will be easier for residents who live near State Road 52 and the Suncoast Parkway to access.  The groundbreaking starts at 1 0a.m. Jan. 24 directly behind the Extra Space Storage facility at 11956 N. Sunlake Blvd.

“All are welcome to come out and see us turn the shovel on the site of our soon-to-be-built tax collector’s office,” Fasano said. “As a team it is our goal to provide a location for our customers in the rapidly growing Northwest part of Pasco County that is closer to home. Of course, all residents of Pasco County are welcome to visit this office once it is open and fully functional.”

 

Group works to stop human trafficking 

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DADE CITY –  Laura Henderson is not only the vice chair of the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking but she is also a survivor of the crime. Henderson said last year marked the 10th year since the commission was formed.

“As we continue our efforts of spreading awareness, continued education and stronger prevention, it is imperative that we continue listening to survivors,” Henderson said. “Being survivor-led and being survivor-informed, the survivors’ voice is the most important one. But we, including myself, cannot stand alone and push forward in this fight without everyone taking a stand and doing their part.”

Henderson was among leaders representing the group Jan. 14 as Pasco County commissioners adopted a resolution declaring January 2025 as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month. The resolution encouraged citizens to “participate in education, awareness, advocacy and prevention efforts to combat human trafficking.”

Liana Dean, chair of the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking, credited Henderson for the value she brings to the organization, highlighting her input on initiatives and guidance for delivering an appropriate message to the populations they serve.

“Everything that we do is geared towards helping (human trafficking survivors) to thrive and to grow after they leave the life and to support their efforts to lead this movement,” Dean said. 

The resolution states there were 680 cases of trafficking involving 1,172 victims, with 181 being children, statewide in 2023. It also acknowledges that human trafficking continues to occur in Pasco County. 

“Through the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking, our community has united to combat this horrific crime and restore dignity to survivors by  bringing  together  the  sectors  deemed  critical  to  effectively  combat  human  trafficking,  such  as  law enforcement, schools, child welfare, nonprofits, businesses, faith-based organizations, survivors, and more,” according to the resolution. “Despite  these  dedicated  local  efforts,  more  awareness,  education  and  advocacy  are needed  to  eradicate  human  trafficking.”

Pasco County Commissioner Lisa Yeager said she was pleased to sponsor the resolution. 

“This important initiative serves to raise awareness, educate the public and empower individuals, families and our community to take a stand against these horrific crimes,” Yeager said. “Together we can strengthen our collective efforts to prevent human trafficking and support survivors on their path to healing.”

Commissioners Jack Mariano, Ron Oakley and Kathryn Starkey also thanked the group for its work.

“This is such an important group and it just pains me to hear that we still have sex trafficking going on in our county with all the awareness we’ve tried to bring to this issue,” Starkey said. “That it still goes on here is upsetting.”

Visit facebook.com/knowmorepasco to learn more about Pasco County’s efforts to stop human trafficking. 

 

RESOLUTION NO. 25-094

A  Resolution  by  the  board  of  county  commissioners  of  Pasco County, Florida, declaring the month of January as National Slavery And Human Trafficking Prevention Month and January 11, 2025, as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day in Pasco County

WHEREAS,  human  trafficking  is  a  crime  against  a  person  whereby,  through  exploitation,  an individual is compelled to work or engage in a commercial sex act through force, fraud, or coercion, thereby being stripped of their rights and humanity. Traffickers typically use multiple means to control their victims, including  beatings,  rape,  isolation,  forced  drug/alcohol  dependency,  withholding  of  documentation,  and psychological and emotional abuse; and

WHEREAS, the International Labor Organization conservatively estimates that there are over 49.6 million victims of human trafficking worldwide, and that this crime is second only to the illegal drug trade in terms of the speed of its growth and the profits that it generates, as human beings can be sold repeatedly; and 

WHEREAS, human trafficking has been reported in all fifty states. Florida consistently ranks third in the nation in both the number of calls made to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH) and the number of cases identified. In Florida in 2023, there were 680 identified cases of trafficking involving 1,172 victims, with 181 being children; and

WHEREAS, human trafficking is occurring in Pasco County. Through the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking, our community has united to combat this horrific crime and restore dignity to survivors by  bringing  together  the  sectors  deemed  critical  to  effectively  combat  human  trafficking,  such  as  law enforcement, schools, child welfare, nonprofits, businesses, faith-based organizations, survivors, and more; and  

WHEREAS,  despite  these  dedicated  local  efforts,  more  awareness,  education,  and  advocacy  are needed  to  eradicate  human  trafficking.  Every  resident  of  Pasco  County  is  called  upon  to  declare  that  the exploitation of people for profit has no place in our world, and that we need to work together to restore freedom, dignity, and justice to all; and

WHEREAS, January is annually declared as National Slavery Human Trafficking Prevention Month and January 11th as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day.   

NOW,  THEREFORE,  BE  IT  RESOLVED  by  the  Board  of  County  Commissioners  of  Pasco County, Florida, that said Board hereby declares January 2025 as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month in Pasco County, Florida, and that all citizens are encouraged to participate in education, awareness, advocacy, and prevention efforts to combat human trafficking. 

DONE AND RESOLVED in regular session with a quorum present and voting this 14th day of January 2025.

 

Yearlong moratorium recommended for Connected City

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DADE CITY – Pasco County Planning Commission members agreed by a vote of 6-1 on Jan. 9 to recommend the Board of County Commissioners impose a yearlong moratorium on new development within the Connected City.

The Connected City is a special planning area of 7,900 acres situated mostly in Wesley Chapel. Metro Development Group is the area’s primary developer.

A comprehensive plan amendment adopted in 2017 designates it as a Community Hub Zone, a Business Core Zone, North and South Innovation Zones and an Urban Core Zone.

The recommendation for the moratorium was made following a lengthy discussion concerning a rezoning request made by Xtreme Team 41 LLC. 

The Tampa-based company is seeking to rezone 38 acres in the Connected City’s Community Hub Area changed from an Agricultural District to a Connected City Master Planned Unit Development District. 

The zoning change would make it possible for the applicant to build the Tall Timbers development that would consist of 380 multifamily dwelling units – 216 apartments and 164 townhomes – and 180,000 square feet of nonresidential uses. 

During its meeting on Jan. 14, commissioners continued until March 11 a public hearing regarding the request for the rezoning for the proposed Tall Timbers project.

Planning Commission member Jon Moody made the motion to recommend the commissioners approve Xtreme Team 41 LLC’s rezoning request and Chairman Charles Grey seconded it. Planning commission members Derek Pontiltz, Chris Williams, Moody and Christopher Poole voted in favor of the rezoning request on Jan. 9 while Grey, Vice Chairman Jaime Girardi and member Matthew Muntz voted against it..

Moody’s motion called for modifying item 50 of the conditions. That condition originally said in part that no stormwater ponds or wetland mitigation areas could be located within the Service Ready Site Acreage site or Mixed-Use areas as depicted on the Master Plan Unit Development Master Plan. 

The modification of that condition was that stormwater ponds or floodplains could be located in part of the Mixed-Use area. That could result in a minor reduction in the number of townhomes that could be developed there.

The following uses will be limited within the Service Ready Site Acreage to preserve adequate land within the Connected City for the most desirable land uses (office, industrial and manufacturing) positively affecting economic development.

This occurred after Michael Pultorak, who organized the more than 1,100 members strong Pasco Connected City Residents Group on Facebook, expressed some concerns to planning commissioners.

He lives on Kenton Road near where Tall Timbers could possibly be developed.

A large part of the Connected City as it was originally designed called for parks, nature trails and recreational areas. None of those have been developed in there so far, Pultorak said.

“The Community Hub Zone is not designed for a parcel. It isn’t designed for vertical integration,” Pultorak said. “The Community Hub is the center point of the entire Connected City to have parks, recreation and a place where people want to live. Every rezoning project so far has turned into another subdivision with a playset for the people that live in it.”

The Connected City’s comprehensive plan did include a district park in the Community Hub Area, according to Chief Assistant County Attorney David Goldstein. It now appears the Connected City’s master plan needs to be changed because it isn’t likely a district park will be developed in the Community Hub Area, Goldstein said.

This is partially because the master plan prepared by the county’s Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department didn’t include a district park there and a funding plan to put a district park in Connected City hasn’t been established, according to Goldstein.

However, David Engel, the county’s planning and economic development director, told Planning Commission members that “internal leadership discussions” have been held about possibly providing a park for the Connected City.

“I don’t have any official capacity to make an announcement, but I don’t want the public nor the Planning Commission to think that we’re just sitting on our hands,” Engel said. “We are working on something right now.”

 

Pasco County leaders, volunteers tout the benefits of trees

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DADE CITY – When asked why trees are so important, Pasco County arborist Mike Woodard points to how they protected his property from Hurricane Milton’s powerful winds.

Woodard lives on a one acre lot that’s mostly forested. The hurricane’s winds brought down a few broken branches from the tree groupings but toward the front of the lot where he cleared some trees for his home, winds brought down some larger branches and and damaged his well.

“If I had had full trees all around my home, it wouldn’t have been able to damage my well and I would have come through unscathed,” Woodard told county commissioners Jan. 14. “When we have the new developments, the trees are really important.”

Woodard is working wth Keep Pasco Beautiful to educate the community about trees. 

Keep Pasco Beautiful is celebrating Arbor Day on Jan. 17 with a tree-planting seminar in Dade City and a tree giveaway in New Port Richey. The effort focused on the firebush and fringe tree. 

“One of the goals with these is to encourage people to know how to plant it right from the start,” Woodard said. “We picked two smaller species so that homeowners can easily take care of it at home themselves without having to call to have someone come out and pay that extra money for a large branch that needs removed. They can go out with their snippers and just take care of their little tree. They can sit out and enjoy it and they can be underneath it still for the shade because as we know summertime it’s brutal.”

Lottie Kelly of Reworld, has served on the board of directors for Keep Pasco Beautiful for 25 years. She’s has pitched in for cleanings, plantings and providing leadership to the organization.

“It’s something that we really believe in at Reworld Waste and something I believe in personally,” Kelly said. “We’re happy to be once again giving out our trees for Arbor Day. It’s a great thing to get people involved and planting native plants and educate.”

Pasco County commissioners not only approved a approves a resolution declaring Jan. 17, 2025, as Arbor Day in Pasco County, but they also voted to give Keep Pasco Beautiful $3,000 toward their tree planting efforts. 

“This is one of my favorite things,” Commissioner Kathryn Starkey said. “I’m so glad we’re back giving out more trees in this county.”

Ligia Martello Buchala, executive director for Keep Pasco Beautiful, thanked commissioenrs for their support. 

 

A resolution by the board of county commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, declaring Jan. 17, 2025, as Arbor Day in Pasco County

WHEREAS, Arbor Day was first observed in 1872 with the planting of over one million trees in Nebraska; and

WHEREAS, Florida has celebrated Arbor Day on the third Friday in January since 1886; and

WHEREAS, trees are important in that they remove CO2 and pollutants, therefore reducing the “heat island effect”. Trees also preserve soil by decreasing storm water run-off, and provide shade and shelter for many animals; and

WHEREAS, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and beautify our community; and 

WHEREAS, trees in our county increase property values and enhance the vitality of our county’s business areas; and

WHEREAS, the steps we can take to protect our natural environment through education, partnerships, and positive actions should be encouraged in Pasco County; and 

WHEREAS, the citizens, staff, and elected officials of Pasco County are committed not only to the protection and preservation of our trees, but also planting additional ones; and

WHEREAS, it is the mission of Keep Pasco Beautiful to improve Pasco County by engaging the community in sustainable efforts to reduce litter, promote waste reduction, and encourage beautification; and

WHEREAS, there will be tree distributions on January 17, 2025, in East and West Pasco County where citizens can receive a native tree to plant. Funding for these tree giveaways is provided by Keep Pasco Beautiful and the Florida Forest Service’s Urban and Community Forestry Grant to promote and enhance local participation in Arbor Day activities. 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of County Commissioners of Pasco County, Florida, that said Board hereby declares January 17, 2025, as Arbor Day in Pasco County and encourages all Pasco County citizens to join in efforts to plant and preserve trees in all its diversity.

DONE AND RESOLVED in regular session with a quorum present and voting this 14th day of January 2025.

 

A Night to Reignite reinforces Better Together’s mission

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Isis LaRose, Megan Rose, Nehemiah Sonnylal and Katelyn Sonnylal. Photo courtesy of Better Together
Alexa Fisher, Andrea Gould and Rafael Martinez. Photo courtesy of Better Together

TAMPA – Better Together recently hosted A Night to Reignite to share the nonprofit’s mission and programs with community members.

Supporters gathered for the private event Dec. 3 at Oxford Exchange, enjoying a night of presentations, food and fellowship to help keep families together and flourishing. Event sponsors included Humana Healthy Horizons, Kohn Law, ReliaQuest Bowl, Suncoast Credit Union and Sunshine Health.

Better Together helps parents who are going through a hard time to keep their kids out of foster care, find work and address the root causes of their struggle so that they can reunite as a family with the tools and support system to thrive. 

Established in Southwest Florida in 2015, the nonprofit’s programming has rapidly expanded to reach families in six regions of Florida, which span 48 counties. 

To date, the program has served 10,000 children and kept 98% of children served through mentoring and hosting out of foster care, while helping nearly 40,000 job seekers find employment through church-based job fairs across 24 states.

On the web: BetterTogetherUS.org.

Judy and Ed Bragdon. Photo courtesy of Better Together
Lindsay and Chris Davitt. Photo courtesy of Better Together
Lora Bostick, Megan Rose, Linsay Davitt, Patrizia Delgado, Isis LaRose and Amancia Calderon. Photo courtesy of Better Together
Kelly Harrington, Kate Clay, Wesley Clay and Lora Bostick. Photo courtesy of Better Together

Diana Corrales, Stacey Singleton-Allen and Bethany Augenstein. Photo courtesy of Better Together