The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

News Briefs (11/26/25): Live Oak Theatre holding auditions

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001: The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club members, including Michelle Haskins, Patty Camunus, Jean Olsen, Deb Cardona and Beth Nevel, waved flags on Veterans Day in front of the Old Lutz School.  This annual event by the Civic Engagement CSP is held in honor of the sacrifices and service of our country’s veterans. Learn more about the club at gfwclutzlandolakeswomansclub.org. Photo courtesy of Pennee Bowen

 

Live Oak Theatre holding auditions for three productions

BROOKSVILLE – Live Oak Theatre announced auditions for the main stage performance of  Rodgers and Hammerstein’s “Cinderella” from March 13 to 29, 2026.

Everyone interested in being considered for the show must record a video performing the monologue and a song. Auditions must be emailed to by 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 7. 

Callback dates will be Jan. 6 and 8. Go to liveoaktheatre.org/gallery for complete instructions. 

“Wizard of Oz Jr.” and “Romeo and Juliet” will be performed by Live Oak Theatre’s Youth Theatre class. A mandatory parent meeting and auditions will be held on Jan. 3 at 10 a.m. “Wizard of Oz” will be performed April 30 to May 10, 2026. “Romeo and Juliet” will be performed May 14 to 17, 2026.

 

Winter Jam shines light on Christian music

TAMPA – Winter Jam 2026 returns to Tampa’s Benchmark International Arena on Jan. 10, bringing all-star Christian music lineup back to the city. 

This year’s tour features Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Katy Nichole, Hulvey, Disciple, Emerson Day and Newsong, with speaker Zane Black. 

Fans can also arrive early for the Pre-Jam Party with Jeremy Rosado, Heath Brothers and Cliff Preston.

“Each night of Winter Jam is an opportunity to experience how God is continuing to move and use this generation,” Tomlin said. 

Winter Jam remains “no ticket required,” with a $15 donation at the door. 

Fans may also join Jam Nation for early entry and exclusive perks. 

On the web: jamtour.com

 

Comedian Garg to perform in Tampa

TAMPA – Tampa Theatre and AEG Presents welcome comedian Zarna Garg to the historic stage at 8 p.m. Feb. 21. 

Garg, an Indian immigrant mom based in New York City, has become a breakout voice in comedy thanks to her sharp wit and fearless social commentary.

Her Amazon Prime special “One in a Billion” earned national praise.

Garg hosts “The Zarna Garg Family Show” podcast, has opened for Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, appeared on “The Tonight Show” and starred in the film “A Nice Indian Boy.” 

Tickets went on sale Nov. 21 at TampaTheatre.org. VIP tickets are available. 

 

New Toastmasters Club forming in Dade City

DADE CITY – Looking to become a more confident speaker or leader or just comfortable talking one-on-one with people? 

Join the new Toastmasters Club, a supportive, fun way to improve public speaking, leadership and communication skills. 

The group meets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Fridays at Dade City Christian Church, Building B, 11800 Windsorwood Ave. Text 435-772-1151 for details to verify meetings during holidays. 

 

Health & Wellness (11/26/25): Castor speaks out on health affordability

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Castor speaks out on health affordability

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released a statement Nov. 13 on congressional Republicans’ spending bill.

“The fight to lower costs and ensure Floridians have access to the health care they need is not over,” Castor said. “To the four million Floridians who rely on the Affordable Care Act tax credits for affordable coverage, I pledge to keep standing up for you.”

She called on Republicans to embrace bipartisanship to solve the health care crisis. 

Castor shared a list of Florida ACA enrollees by congressional district: 

  • 141,151 – Rep. Laurel Lee (FL-15)
  • 136,535 – Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14)
  • 133,028 – Rep. Vern Buchanan (FL-16)
  • 112,261 – Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)
  • 4,735,472 – Statewide ACA enrollees

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding support  

LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North offers a free in-person breastfeeding support group and class during December. 

Both events are open to all no matter which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your children. The events will be held in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North classrooms,  4211 Van Dyke Road.

  • Breastfeeding Support Group: For breastfeeding mothers, their babies and one support person (grandmother, aunt, etc.) The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. The support group will be held Dec. 11, 10 to 11 a.m.
  • Understanding Breastfeeding: This class provides information to the expectant mother and her support person about breastfeeding basics, skin-to-skin contact, tips for returning to work and when to call a health care provider or lactation consultant. The class will be held Dec. 11, 1 to 5 p.m.

 

Get answers on Medicare

ST. PETERSBURG – SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas.

Specially trained volunteers can assist with Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information.

They’ll answer questions at the following Medicare Basics programs: 

  • Dec. 3 at noon at the Largo Public Library, 120 Central Park Drive, Largo. 727-587-6715 ext. 2508
  • Dec. 4 at 10 a.m. at the New Port Richey Library, 5939 Main St., New Port Richey. 727-853-1279
  • Dec. 9 at 10:30 a.m. at the Centennial Park Library, 5740 Moog Road, Holiday. 727-834-3204.
  • Dec. 11 at 10:30 a.m. at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 4th St, Dade City. 352-567-3576
  • Dec. 17 at 11 a.m. at the Pinellas Park Library, 7770 52nd St. N., Pinellas Park. 727-369-0669
  • Dec. 17 at 1 p.m. at the Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S., Gulfport. 727-893-1073
  • Dec. 18 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 FL 54, Wesley Chapel. 813-788-6375
  • Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. 813-929-1214

SHINE services are free, unbiased and confidential. Counselors do not sell anything. They can be reached by calling 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.

 

Business Digest (11/26/26): AAA expects Floridians to travel

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AAA expects Floridians to travel

TAMPA – AAA projected that 4.65 million Floridians will travel at least 50 miles from home during the Thanksgiving holiday period, which runs from Nov. 25 to Dec. 1. 

This marks a 2.6% increase over last year and sets a new record for Thanksgiving travel in the Sunshine State.

“Floridians are embracing the Thanksgiving spirit with record-breaking travel plans this year,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Whether it’s driving across the state or flying across the country, people are making time to connect with loved ones. Even with concerns about flight cancellations, travelers are showing flexibility and resilience and relying most on driving.”

According to INRIX, the afternoons of Nov. 25 and 26 will be the most congested travel times before Thanksgiving. Heavy traffic is expected all day Nov. 30 as travelers return home. 

 

Workers comp rates decreasing

TALLAHASSEE – Florida Insurance Commissioner Mike Yaworsky issued a final order approving a statewide overall rate decrease of 6.9% for workers’ compensation policies. 

The reduction, proposed by the National Council on Compensation Insurance, applies to both new and renewal policies effective in Florida starting Jan. 1, 2026. 

This marks the ninth consecutive year Florida has lowered these rates, providing significant, sustained relief for employers across the state.

“This rate decrease directly translates to reduced operating costs for businesses, encouraging investment and growth throughout Florida’s economy,” Yaworsky said. 

On the web: floir.com

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will hold its Annual Meeting and a ribbon cutting.

  • The chamber celebrates the past year, welcomes a new board and charts goals during its Annual Meeting from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Dec. 2 at Pasco Hernando State College’s Porter Campus, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Members pay $25. Others pay $30. Register in advance. 
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of RoofElite from 4 to 7 p.m. Dec. 4 at 19002 1st St. S.W., Lutz. The ribbon will be cut at 4:30 p.m. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Medical Roundtable and Hudson Business & Brochure Exchange.

  • Adam Shumaker facilitates the latest Medical Roundtable from 8 to 9 a.m. Dec. 4 at Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, 6600 Madison St., New Port Richey. Register in advance. 
  • Members exchange business materials during the Hudson Business & Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 4 at Vitality Living Baypoint Village, 7927 State Road 52, Hudson. Members get in free. Food costs $14. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

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

  • Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Dec. 2 at the chamber’s Dade City location (14112 8th St.). Register in advance. 

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

 

Pasco County hospitals earn top safety grades

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WESLEY CHAPEL – Hospitals across Pasco County earned top grades in the fall release of 2025 Hospital Safety Grades on Nov. 13. 

The Leapfrog Group collects and analyzes data about infections, accidents, injuries and errors at nearly 3,000 general hospitals. The nonprofit assigns grades ranging from A to F and releases them publicly in the fall and spring. 

“These safety grades represent peace of mind for the communities we are a part of,” said Dr. Raj Wadhawan, chief clinical officer of the AdventHealth West Florida Division. “When patients walk through our doors, they can trust that our teams are focused on preventing errors, maintaining the highest safety standards and delivering compassionate care that helps them heal and feel whole.”

Several AdventHealth West Florida Division hospitals earned an A grade, including AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Dade City.

Eleven of BayCare’s acute-care hospitals received an A grade, including BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel in Wesley Chapel, Morton Plant North Bay Hospital in New Port Richey and St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz.

“BayCare’s outstanding fall 2025 Leapfrog Safety Grades reflect our daily commitment to protect patients and deliver the highest standards of care,” said Dr. Laura Arline, BayCare’s chief quality officer. “This achievement demonstrates what’s possible when every team member, physician and advanced practice provider takes ownership of safety and is a testament to our shared focus on Zero Harm.”  

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz scored a top grade for the seventh consecutive time, earning what’s known as Straight A status. 

“This recognition is evidence of our team’s unwavering commitment to patient safety and excellence in care. We are dedicated to providing our community with the safest possible environment and continuously striving to exceed the highest standards in health care,” said Sara Dodds, St. Joseph’s Hospital-North president. 

The safety grade is a composite score that comprises more than 30 national performance measures, a hospital survey and information gathered from other data sources. The grading system is peer-reviewed and free to the public at HospitalSafetyGrade.org.

 

Crafters featured at expansion of vintage store

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Holiday decorations will be for sale Nov. 29 in an expansion of Guava City Vintage, 7307 N. Florida Ave. The event features the work of crafters from Forest Hills Presbyterian Church and benefits missions. Photo provided by Forest Hills Presbyterian Church. 

NORTH TAMPA – Creations by volunteers at Forest Hills Presbyterian Church will be featured Nov. 29 as the first vendors in an expanded vintage store.

Guava City Vintage, located at 7307 N. Florida Ave., is owned by Tania Ashby and her mother, Elisa Ashby. The store’s newly expanded area will open at 10 a.m. for the annual Seminole Heights Shop Hop. The owners also plan to have it open on select weekends throughout the year to feature local artists, vendors and crafters.

The Presbyterian church volunteers create decorative pieces, refinish and refurbish furniture, and grow plants for sale at the church’s annual bazaar, which celebrated its 26th year in October.

Tania  Ashby said she likes the church crafters’ work.

“They are handcrafted, truly unique and local,” she said. “I hope we can get some more local vendors each Saturday.”

Tania  Ashby said she is glad to have the church crafters as the first participants.

“I support their mission of giving back to the community,” she said, noting all proceeds from the church crafters sale will go to missions.

Collectibles, such as this set of Wizard of Oz dolls from McDonald’s Happy Meals, will be for sale. Photo provided by Forest Hills Presbyterian Church.

Jennifer Gregory, the church’s craft coordinator, said the church had some items remaining from its bazaar as well as many other creations being made for its new venture, called “Timeless Treasures.”

“I just heard about Tania’s idea and jumped right on it,” Gregory said, adding the volunteers usually take several months off after the fall bazaar. “This is how the crafters, gardeners and furniture people can continue the fellowship of the group.”

The merchandise includes Christmas decorations, wreaths, centerpieces, antiques, collectibles, furniture pieces, plants and baked goods. Crafters also will make bows. Most items will be priced between $3 and $50, with many under $20, Gregory said.

“This expansion is a great opportunity for other artists and crafters to have a place to showcase what they are doing locally,” Gregory said. “I think she has a great idea, and I hope it really takes off.”

For information about becoming a vendor at the expanded vintage store, email Tania  Ashby at

 

 

Pasco County Schools receives land donation

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WESLEY CHAPEL – The Kirkland family is donating 4.5 acres at the corner of Curley and Kiefer roads to Pasco County Schools on the condition that the million-dollar property be used for educational purposes. 

The school district began negotiating with the family about the purchase of 100 acres of Kirkland Ranch property back in 2019. The two sides worked out a deal, allowing Pasco County Schools to open Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation in 2022 and the Kirkland Ranch K-8 in 2024. 

“The Kirkland family has been a part of Pasco County for generations and has always held education in high regard,” said Chris Williams, the district’s planning director, during the Nov. 4 school board meeting. “This campus sits as a testament to this family.”

Caesar Rinaldi, president of Kirkland Ranch Inc., told former school administrator Ray Gadd that the family intended to donate an additional 4.5 acres to the district. 

“Caesar is the kind of man that personal relationships are important to him,” Gadd told the school board. “I think we probably had six meetings at Denny’s before we ever locked the deal up at Kirkland Ranch.

“Caesar will tell you that every other day they got a letter from developers wanting that property. The Kirkland sisters wanted it to be sold and given to charities. We’re lucky enough to get a piece of that land. It’s all because of Caesar’s hard work that we got there.”

In August, the Southwest Florida Water Management District decided to purchase Kirkland Ranch for $30.8 million to conserve the 974-acre parcel. Brian Armstrong, executive director of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, said at the time that the purchase will help preserve the region’s land and water resources for generations. 

“Those of us who live on the east side of the county are extremely excited about this,” Williams said. “Because the Kirkland Ranch is just such a beautiful gem of a piece of property. We are extremely excited that it will remain in its natural state.”

Gadd sees the potential for the property becoming a preserve or state park that people can enjoy. He praised Rinaldi and the Kirkland family for donating the additional 4.5-acre parcel to the district. 

“It has to be used for educational purposes but the fact that they’re giving away a million dollars’ worth of property for us is just incredible,” Gadd said. “Caesar is one of the finest gentlemen I have ever met, a good friend and he kept promising me he was going to get that land for us and he did. He kept his promise.”

Rinbaldi was able to attend the Nov. 4 school board meeting and meet the school board. 

“On behalf of the Kirkland and the Holloway family, we’re happy to give this gift to the school board,” Rinaldi said. “This family has always been big on education. We hope that it benefits our future.”

Cynthia Armstrong, chair of the school board, expressed her gratitude.

“We built two beautiful schools on that property already,” Armstrong said. “It’s just a lovely site up there on the hill. Thank you so much for all your hard work in making that happen.”

 

Saint Leo University hosting Christmas Celebration

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ST. LEO – Saint Leo University is kicking off the holiday season Dec. 3 with its annual Christmas Celebration. 

The community is invited to enjoy an evening of beloved Saint Leo traditions, including two Christmas concerts, a Christmas village, the campus lighting and other family-friendly activities. 

 

Christmas Concert

4 p.m., Benedictine Sisters of Florida’s Holy Name Monastery, 12138 Wichers Road

Enjoy the first of two Christmas concerts featuring choral and instrumental performances by the Saint Leo University Music Program.

 

Christmas Village

5 to 7 p.m., Student Activities Building loggias and clock tower courtyard

In partnership with the Town of St. Leo and Orlando Health, the campus will transform into a Christmas village with local vendors, food, family-friendly activities, decorations and special guests from the North Pole.

 

Campus Lighting and Manger Blessing

5:45 p.m., Walkway by the lion statue

Join the Saint Leo community for the annual blessing of the university’s Nativity scene and the official lighting of the campus for the Christmas season.

 

Ugly Sweater Contest

6 p.m., Clock tower

Show off your holiday spirit as judges award medals to the top three ugliest sweaters.

 

Christmas Carols and Candlelight Walk

6:45 p.m., Meet at the clock tower

Gather by candlelight and stroll to the historic Saint Leo Abbey Church while singing your favorite Christmas carols.

 

Christmas Concert and Sing-Along

7 p.m., Saint Leo Abbey Church

The evening concludes with a concert and sing-along.

 

Both Christmas concerts are free. Optional donations will be accepted online. Concert seating is first come, first served. The 4 p.m. concert at Holy Name Monastery offers a more intimate setting, while the 7 p.m. concert at Saint Leo Abbey Church accommodates larger audiences.

Saint Leo University is at 33701 County Road 52. Free parking is available in surface lots and in the campus parking garage.

Email for more information about the concerts or for accommodation requests. 

 

Pasco to open disaster recovery housing program

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LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County is launching its Better Future Individual Housing Program to help customers repair, rebuild or replace homes damaged by hurricanes Idalia, Helene and Milton.

The Office of Disaster Recovery and Resources is hosting public meetings around the county so residents can learn about the application process and find out if they qualify. Staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Information meetings will be held at the following times: 

  • Nov. 19, 6 p.m., West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive, New Port Richey
  • Nov. 20, 6 p.m., Veterans Memorial Park, 14333 Hicks Road, Hudson
  • Nov. 22, 10 a.m., Alice Hall Community Center, 38116 5th Ave., Zephyrhills
  • Nov. 24, 6 p.m., Historic Pasco County Courthouse, 37918 Meridian Ave., Dade City
  • Nov. 25, 6:30 p.m., Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

Each open house-style meeting will begin with a brief presentation, followed by an informal question-and-answer session. Visit mypas.co/BetterFuture for the latest updates and information if you can’t attend a meeting.

Pasco’s Better Future Individual Housing Program is the first of several programs designed to help the community recover with nearly $586 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery program.

 

What’s Happening (11/19/25): Tampa Theatre to screen holiday classics 

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Children can meet St. Nick following a Dec. 6 screening of “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” at Tampa Theatre. Photo courtesy of Tampa Theatre

Tampa Theatre to screen holiday classics 

TAMPA – Tampa Theatre plans to screen holiday classics on the big screen.

Some of the upcoming screenings include: 

  • “Miracle On 34th Street” (1947) at 3 p.m. Nov. 30. Before the film, guests are invited to meet and snap photos with Santa Claus in front of the Christmas tree, starting at 2 p.m. in the lobby.
  • “White Christmas” (1954) at 3 p.m. Dec. 7. This is a sing-along screening.
  • ”Elf” (2003) at 3 p.m. Dec. 14.
  • “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) at 7 p.m. Dec. 19 to 23 as well as 3 p.m. Dec. 20 and 21. 
  • “Love Actually” (2003) at 3 p.m. Dec. 28.

Tickets for Sing-Along “White Christmas” cost $16.50 ($13.50 for members). All other movies cost $12 ($9 for members) at the historic Franklin Street Box Office or online at TampaTheatre.org

Tampa Theatre and Scatter Brothers Productions will also offer a free community screening of the family-friendly holiday film “Saint Nick of Bethlehem” (2024) on Dec. 6. 

Before the film, guests are invited to meet the film’s star, Tampa’s own Daniel Roebuck (“The Munsters” and TV’s “NCIS”), in the lobby starting at 2 p.m. 

At 3 p.m., the film tells the story of Nick McNulty (Roebuck), whose downward spiral after the tragic loss of his son leads him to the realization that adopting Santa’s personality allows him to alleviate his heartache one gift at a time.

After the film, guests are invited to stick around for an audience Q&A with members of the cast and crew, followed by a very special visit from Saint Nick.

Admission is free. RSVP is required at TampaTheatre.org.

 

Nov. 19

Preteen: Oreo Tasting

Guess the flavors in an Oreo tasting challenge at Hugh Embry Library. For grades 4–7. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

4-5 p.m.; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Mat Yoga

Join instructor Michelle Mack for a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring your own mat. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

ASL Social

Socialize using American Sign Language at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Refreshments and games provided. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Chess Club

Play and improve your game at Hugh Embry Library’s weekly chess meetup. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Ales and Tales Book Club at In the Loop

Discuss “True Biz” by Sara Novic at In the Loop. Ages 21+. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

English Conversation Corner

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

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

 

Nov. 20

Woodworking Open Build

Continue your woodworking projects in the foundry at Land O’ Lakes Library. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Storytime Fun!

Read, sing and dance with little learners at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Tech Help

Receive one-on-one help with computer or mobile basics from Hugh Embry Library staff. Bring a device or use a library computer. Registration required. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

10 a.m.-noon; 14215 Fourth St., Dade City

 

Preschool Storytime

Children ages 3-5 and their caregivers enjoy stories and songs at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Preschool Storytime

Ms. Christy presents stories, songs and fun activities at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Space is limited. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Book Club

Discuss “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

SHINE: Medicare 101

Learn about Medicare coverage and annual updates with SHINE volunteers at New River Library. Call Geralyn at 727-570-9696 ext. 234 with questions. 

10:30-11:30 a.m.; 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel

 

Friends of the Library

Join the Friends of the Library for refreshments and conversation. Drop in anytime during a social event. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Mahjong 

Play Mahjong at New River Library. Registration required. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Concert

Enjoy The Rat Pack performance by Dave Deluca at Hugh Embry Library. Free event; seating is first come, first served. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

Mat Yoga

Michelle Mack instructs a mat yoga session at Zephyrhills Public Library. Bring a mat; registration not required.

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

 

Open Craft Studio

Create art, sew or work on fiber projects at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Supplies provided; instruction not included. For ages 16+. Registration required. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Yarn for a Cause

Join yarn enthusiasts at New River Library to chat and share projects. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Nov. 21

Toddler Storytime

Toddlers and caregivers enjoy stories and songs at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

9:45-10:05, 10:15-10:35 and 11:15-11:35 a.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Picture Book Party!

Join Zephyrhills Public Library for themed crafts and sensory fun inspired by favorite picture books. Dress for mess! Call 813-780-0064 for details.

10-11 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Conversation Corner

Adult learners practice English reading, writing and speaking at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

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

 

BIG Book Sale

The Friends of New River Library holds its Fall Book Sale. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Book Club

Spill the Tea Book Club discusses “The Chicken Sisters” by K.J. Dell’Antonia at Zephyrhills Public Library. Stop by the library to pick up a copy. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Open Studio Hours

Reserve time in Centennial Park Library’s creative studio to work on art, photography or other projects. Includes access to equipment and guidance. Registration required. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

3-4:50 p.m.; 5740 Moog Rd., Holiday

 

Free Art Closet 

Browse the Free Art Closet at Centennial Park Library for supplies like beads, yarn and paint. Each appointment allows 10 minutes of browsing. Registration required. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

3-4:50 p.m.; 5740 Moog Rd., Holiday

 

How to Draw 

Learn to draw animals, anime, zentangles and more at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. For ages 8+. First come, first served. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Nov. 22

Volunteer Orientation

Centennial Park Library invites adult volunteers to an orientation and system update. Registration required. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

10-11 a.m.; 5740 Moog Rd., Holiday

 

Thankful for Dessert

Make Thanksgiving-themed edible crafts like turkey cookies and candy cornucopias at Zephyrhills Public Library. Registration required. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

10-11 a.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Book Sale 

Browse the Friends of New River Library Fall Book Sale. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Supersized Storytime

Family storytime with songs, stories and dance at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

School of Rocks

MAPS Museum presents School of Rocks at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Learn about rocks, minerals, fossils and geodes. Paid ticketed event ($15 per child). Visit mapsmuseum.org for details.

10:30 a.m.-noon; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

BayCare Health Screening

Receive free health screenings including blood pressure, glucose and BMI checks at Land O’ Lakes Library. Walk-ins welcome. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

1-4 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Dungeons & Dragons Club

Join a safe and fun D&D group for 8th-12th graders at Centennial Park Library. New players welcome; characters up to level 3. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

2-4 p.m.; 5740 Moog Rd., Holiday

 

Pottery Exhibition & Sale

Enjoy an afternoon of art, music and community at the annual Students of San Antonio Pottery Exhibition and Sale. Browse unique handmade wheel-thrown pottery and sculptures, along with works by more than 30 Florida artists featuring watercolors, wood, photography and jewelry. Enjoy live music by The Barking Dogs plus complimentary snacks and sips. potteryflorida.com

2-6 p.m.; 11903 Curley Road, San Antonio

 

Tai Chi

Dan Suede instructs a gentle Tai Chi class at Land O’ Lakes Library. For adults at all skill levels. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

3-4 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

English Conversation Corner

Adults practice English conversation with trained tutors at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Conversation Corner

Improve English reading, writing and speaking skills at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 to reserve a seat.

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

 

Nov. 22–23

Early Elf Art Market

The Early Elf Art Market celebrates over 30 years of festive tradition. Sponsored by the Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce, this two-day event offers a perfect opportunity to check off your holiday shopping list while supporting local artists and small businesses. Call 727-937-6109 for details.

10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 1 N. Pinellas Ave., Historic Downtown Tarpon Springs

 

Nov. 29

Parents’ Day Out

Give yourself the gift of peace while Dade City First United Methodist Church cares for your little ones with love and joy. The church invites ages 3-5 to a holiday day camp. Register at DCFUMC.church/parents. $25 per child.

Noon-4 p.m.; 37628 Church Ave., Dade City

 

Dec. 2

Preschool Praise and Play

Dade City First United Methodist Church invites you to a free community preschool playtime. Enjoy a scripture story, music, craft and playtime with new friends. Activities are geared toward toddlers and preschoolers, but all ages are welcome. Email with questions or text 833-374-4043 for a text reminder. 9:30-10:30 a.m.; 37628 Church Ave., Dade City

 

Dec. 5–6

Christmas Sale

Get into the holiday spirit at St. Joseph Catholic Church Zephyrhills Craft Club annual Christmas sale. Shop for handmade gifts, enjoy baked goods and try your luck in the raffle to win a fully decorated Christmas tree or a lighted Christmas village house. Raffle tickets cost $1 each or $5 for six. Call 813-782-2813 for details.

9 a.m.-1 p.m.; 38710 5th Ave., Zephyrhills

 

Dec. 9

Praise and Play at the Park

Dade City First United Methodist Church invites you to meet up at the Dade City Splash Pad for friends and outdoor playtime. All ages are welcome. Email with questions or text 833-374-4043 for a text reminder. 

9:30-10:30 a.m.; 14042 10th St., Dade City

 

Dec. 16

Preschool Praise and Play

Dade City First United Methodist Church invites you to a free community preschool playtime. Enjoy a scripture story, music, craft and playtime with new friends. Activities are geared toward toddlers and preschoolers, but all ages are welcome. Email with questions or text 833-374-4043 for a text reminder. 9:30-10:30 a.m.; 37628 Church Ave., Dade City