Local News

Decision delayed on invasive species ordinance

July 23, 2024 By Joe Potter

Pasco County Planning Commission members recently agreed to continue until Aug. 8 a decision on a proposed ordinance addressing invasive species vegetation.

The proposed ordinance was presented to the Planning Commission during its July 11 meeting with a recommendation that they approve sending it to the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners (BCC). The BCC has final authority on adopting the proposed ordinance, as the Planning Commission only acts in an advisory capacity regarding such matters.

Cogon grass is one of the invasive plants Pasco County is seeking to limit. (Marek Piwnicki/Pexels)

The intent of the proposed ordinance is to amend different parts of Pasco County’s Land Development Code (LDC) to establish an Invasive Species Management Program. Information regarding the proposed amendments is based upon input from the County’s Public Works, Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation, Development Review Division, Building Construction Services and the Zoning Department.

A few members of the Planning Commission expressed concerns about different portions of the proposed ordinance.

“We already have a law on the books to prohibit the establishment of invasive species,” longtime Planning Commission member Jon Moody said. He was referring to a part of Section 905 of the county’s LDC that already addresses mitigating invasive species of vegetation.

“How do we enforce it?” Moody asked regarding the existing regulation. He also asked who was going to enforce regulations in the proposed ordinance if it is adopted.

“There’s no guidelines on how to actually pursue enforcement of what the LDC says about prohibiting the establishment of invasive plant species,” responded Keith L. Wiley, director of the County’s Parks, Recreation, & Natural Resources department.

Wiley also said it hadn’t yet been determined how enforcement would occur if the proposed ordinance is adopted.

Planning Commission member Jamie Girardi said he was concerned that the management plan with all of its reporting requirements would place a tremendous burden on the development community, Homeowners Associations, Community Development Districts and county staff.

Planning Commission Chairman Charles Grey agreed, saying “To me, this is just overkill.”

Chief Assistant County Attorney David Goldstein made some suggestions on changes that could be made to existing portions of the LDC regarding invasive species.

Moody moved that the decision on the proposed ordinance be continued for 30 days. When he made the motion, Moody said he would like for there to be adequate time for the LDC to be revised per the Planning Commission’s discussion and brought back so members would have something they could all find consensus on.

Grey seconded the motion and it was unanimously approved.

In other business on July 11, Planning Commission members:

Recommended the BCC approve a zoning amendment requested by S A Development Partners LLC for a change in zoning from a C-2 General Commercial District and C-3 Commercial/Light Manufacturing District to a C-3 Commercial/Light Manufacturing District for approximately 5.557 acres of property located in central Pasco County. The property is adjacent to the Funded County Road 52 Trail (AKA State Road 52 Trail), approximately one-half mile west of Mirada Boulevard.

There is currently a warehouse on the property, and the applicant proposes to develop the property with a hotel and a sit-down restaurant.

Recommended the BCC approve a zoning amendment requested by Dave Mitchells Holding Company/Mitchell Clinton Rezoning for a change in zoning from an R-1MH Single-Family/Mobile Home District and C-2 General Commercial District to a C-2 General Commercial District for approximately 2.18 acres of property located in east central Pasco County. The property is on the northeast corner of Circle B Road and Clinton Avenue.

Plans have been approved for a 15,200-square–foot commercial warehouse to be built on the property. It also has an approved Commercial Building Permit for a 15,200-square–foot commercial building shell for future tenants.

The applicant wants the whole parcel to be in the same zoning district.

Recommended the BCC approve a Development Agreement with Depue East MPUD (Master Planned Unit Development) – Pulte Home Company, LLC. to design, permit and construct improvements to Watergrass Parkway and Wells Road in exchange for Transportation Development Fee (TDF) credits. The site is located south of Wells Road on approximately 931 acres within Villages L and M in the Villages of Pasadena Hills (VOPH).

On May 9, 2023, the Pasco County BCC approved the Depue East MPUD in the VOPH to allow 2,300 residential dwelling units and 20,000 square feet of commercial uses on approximately 931 acres.

Numerous specific requirements to qualify for the VOPH TDC credits are outlined in the lengthy agreement that the BCC will consider approving at a future meeting.

Pasco County neighborhoods brighter, thanks to cleanup

July 23, 2024 By Mary Rathman

Some West Pasco neighborhoods are a whole lot brighter thanks to Pasco County’s Code Compliance, Solid Waste and Public Works teams that joined forces to remove 208 tons of residential garbage and debris, according to a news release.

“Thank you to our Pasco County team members and community members for helping make these cleanups so successful,” said Commissioner Jack Mariano, in the release. “This is a great example of how working together makes our community a better place.”

Debris collected, by the numbers:

Commission District 3 — 38.8 tons
Commission District 4 – 132.4 tons
Commission District 5 – 36.8 tons

“Our annual cleanups make a big difference in the county we call home,” added Commissioner Kathryn Starkey. “It’s great to see what Pasco can accomplish in working toward a safer, cleaner environment.”

To report trash or debris in your neighborhood, residents can use one of four options:

Click “Illegal Dumping” on the MyPasco App
Email
Call 727-847-2411
Submit an online request at https://pascocountyfl.mycusthelp.com/webapp/_rs/(S(jdwl4mibefskauv5ufzqt2wo))/RequestSelect.aspx?sSessionID=

To learn more about Code Compliance efforts, visit MyPas.co/CodeCompliance.

Published July 24, 2024

Accessibility of health care services can be a struggle in Florida, says report

July 23, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — A new report says many people in Florida don’t receive needed health care because they lack easy access to adequate services.

Florida TaxWatch recently released its report, Social Determinants of Health: Health Care Access and Quality. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, social determinants of health are environmental factors that can impact individuals’ health outcomes.

The University of Florida Health’s The Villages Hospital in The Villages. (UF Health The Villages Hospital/Facebook)

These include health care access and quality; education access and quality; social and community context; neighborhood and built environment; and economic stability.

According to the report, these factors can majorly impact a person’s health, well-being and quality of life. The report notes that 80% of a person’s health is determined by social factors, while the remaining 20% results from receiving medical care.

In Florida, many people lack access to health care services, with the biggest barrier being the cost. In a 2019 survey of 1,200 Floridians, 55% had experienced health care cost burdens, while 78% worried they would not be able to afford health care in the future.

The report states Florida ranked 41st in 2021 for overall health care and access, which was attributed to the growing number of uninsured adults, rising insurance costs and policies that make health care less accessible. The report further notes that Florida has consistently ranked in the bottom 10 states for uninsured citizens.

Florida currently has a physician shortage and the report notes this plays a role in access to quality health care. With Florida’s population growing, especially in rural areas, the number of physicians in the Sunshine State is insufficient. By 2030, an additional 22,000 physicians are needed to bridge the gap.

The report notes that as of 2023, only 40% of Florida’s population has employer-sponsored health insurance, while the rate of uninsured Floridians was 11.2% in 2022 — higher than the national average of 8%. Also, in 2022, Florida ranked 46th in the nation for the uninsured population.

Compounding this are the 979,000 people who have been disenrolled from Medicaid, 460,000 of whom are children. Furthermore, access depends on where the person lives. In rural areas, there are roughly 1.3 physicians for every 1,000 people available in the U.S., while urban areas have around 3.1 physicians for every 1,000 people.

Published July 24, 2024

Children enjoy reading to therapy dogs

July 23, 2024 By Joe Potter

Nearly a dozen children of various ages recently gathered at the New River Branch Library to spend some time reading to therapy dogs. The event is featured once a month at the library in Wesley Chapel.

Nancy Horbert is the program manager for the Tampa-based nonprofit organization Highland Canine Connect (HCC), which brings therapy dogs to the library.

A young child pets Uggy, a therapy dog, on July 13, while Uggy’s owner Nancy Horbert sits nearby. (Joe Potter)

The two dogs at the July 13 event were Daisy, a female Labrador, and Uggy, a male standard parti poodle.

Both of the dogs have each received several months of extensive training so they respond in a very docile manner when interacting with children at Read to Therapy Dogs events, Horbert said.

Several of the children spent the first 15 or 20 minutes lovingly petting both of the dogs that were relaxed while sitting or laying on the carpeted floor of the room in which the event was held.

Books of various reading levels were available in the room and children could also bring reading materials from elsewhere in the library if they wanted to.

Shawnda Weaver assisted Horbert at the event while Weaver’s son, Jonathan, was a volunteer.

HCC opened in Harmony, North Carolina, in 2019 and the local branch of HCC opened in Tampa in May 2022.

Horbert’s daughter, Brittany Mojica, attended Highland Canine Training School for Dogs and was offered the position of their Florida dog trainer after she graduated.

“Over the years I have gotten to know the owners Erin and Jason Purgason, so when I wanted to start a nonprofit therapy dog program here in the Tampa area, I met with them to see if I could start a branch of Highland Canine Connect,” Horbert said. “They agreed to let me start a branch here after filing all the needed paperwork to be a registered nonprofit here in Florida. My daughter donates her training services to evaluate potential team members and donates Canine Good Citizen training to approved candidates. In the future, as I raise money, my goal is to provide a fully trained therapy dog locally.”

A press release from the organization’s team in North Carolina states: “Highland Canine Connect has been proud to have a positive impact on the lives of many individuals. From our flagship service dog and police dog donation programs, protecting our planet through the training of a conservation detection dog and community outreach such as our School Reading Program, we have established a number of programs which truly make a difference.”

The creation of the Tampa branch of HCC was considered to be “an exciting development,” team members said.

Horbert’s job is to secure locations in the local area for therapy dogs to visit. “These include venues such as libraries, schools, therapist’s offices, and events which are geared toward the special needs community,” Horbert said.

Anyone interested in joining the HCC program can contact Horbert at .

Published July 24, 2024

Audits find financial issues with some Florida charter schools

July 23, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — The Florida Auditor General’s office has released two reports that detail significant issues and financial trends in the Sunshine State’s charter schools, charter technical career centers and district school boards.

There are 720 charter schools and charter technical career centers operating in Florida, with the majority in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. State law requires these schools to be annually audited by an independent certified public accountant.

In the audit, 713 charter school audit reports and records regarding financial trends for fiscal 2022-2023 were reviewed.

This review found 94 issues in 64 of the 713 reports, with 24 issues considered material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting requirements. In comparison, 13 issues were deemed noncompliance findings, required by law to be reported by government auditing standards.

Of the 13 charter schools identified as having at least one noncompliance finding, three had incurred expenses in excess of their respective budgets, two failed to comply with requirements, and one had a fund balance deficit.

In total, 61 issues or 65% of the 94 issues reported in 39 reports were considered significant deficiencies by auditors. Prevalent topics classified as being required by accounting standards to be reported included budget administration, deficit fund balances, improper maintenance of accounting records, and financial control deficiencies.

Ten charter schools were noted as having inadequate controls over budget administration, increasing the risk of inappropriate use of financial resources. Nine were found to have deficit fund balances, seven needed to properly maintain accounting records and five had purchasing or disbursement control deficiencies.

The report notes many of the issues found were repeat findings from previous years not yet resolved.

To measure financial trends, auditors used ratios of the charter schools’ total assigned and unassigned fund balances, or unrestricted net assets to total revenues of general funds or other unrestricted funds.

In FY 2023, which ended June 30, 263 charter schools had ratios above average, 395 had a below-average ratio but had positive or zero balances, while 55 had ratios with deficit balances. In 2022, 51 charter schools reported a deficit. Two audit reports included statements from accountants questioning whether the schools could continue operations.

In a separate report that reviewed 20 district school boards, four needed to timely submit audit reports, with one being submitted 52 to 497 days after receiving the report from their respective accountants.

Published July 24, 2024

Review: ‘Despicable Me 4’ is more annoying than fun

July 23, 2024 By Asher Luberto

How many minions does it take to screw on a lightbulb? The same amount of minions it takes to screw audiences out of 13 bucks at the theater. There are countless yellow henchmen in “Despicable Me 4,” but their imbecile slapstick is more wearisome than wonderful, and you may start to feel worn down by the amount of childishness on display.

Ideally, this franchise is supposed to deliver laughs out of villains acting benign, which in this case means having a heart of gold and being terrible at heists. But while the concept of mad geniuses having the brains of elementary school students is somewhat clever, there are so many mindless vignettes that we end up feeling more exhausted than entertained.

The film, directed by “Despicable Me” regular Chris Renaud, picks up almost a decade after the last one left off and there’s been a new addition to the franchise. Gru (Steve Carrell) now has a baby boy, Gru Jr., who has more than just his dad’s crooked nose, slicked-back hair and harsh-sounding accent. He’s got his dad’s penchant for chaos. You thought changing diapers was hard — this baby treats every day like it’s April Fool’s Day.

Gru’s got his hands full, alright, but he enjoys his life of suburban mundanity, doing the dishes, cleaning up diapers, keeping the wife in a chipper mood. You know, dad stuff. But then his arch nemesis, Maxime (Will Ferrell), escapes from a high-security prison and his entire routine is thwarted. He takes his family out of their comfortable habitat to a remote location, where they can avoid Maxime’s revenge plot, which involves a ploy to steal Gru’s new baby.

Of course, all of this is just an excuse to let Gru’s minions run wild, bouncing off walls and exploding off vending machines while they speak in mumbled gibberish, which is what fans are really paying to see. They should honestly just call this franchise “The Minions,” since the wide-eyed, banana-hued, Tic-Tac-shaped villains have earned this franchise nearly $5 billion in revenues, not the family misunderstandings of Gru. There’s an admirable “Looney Tunes” quality to these characters — a scene where some of them are turned into Mega Minions is hilariously bonkers — but their hijinks might be better suited for television than a feature-length film.

The endless stream of minion antics does have its moments, but at 90 minutes of crammed, cacophonous silliness, there just aren’t enough jokes to warrant the onslaught of misfires. Yes, this movie is going to entertain young children. Yes, it’s going to make bank at the box office. And yes, it’s going to sell more toys than Toys “R” Us. Does that make it a good film? You tell me.

Published July 24, 2024

Florida bases could receive more than $1B in new defense spending bill

July 23, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — Florida military bases could receive more than a billion dollars for construction projects if the new 2025 defense budget becomes law.

The National Defense Authorization Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives on June 13. Before it becomes law, it must pass the Senate and receive President Joe Biden’s signature.

Key West Naval Air Station, which hosts the U.S. Army Special Forces Underwater Operations School on Trumbo Point, would receive a total of $457 million from the Army’s construction budget. The station would receive another $90 million for a new Joint Inter-Agency Task Force-South command and control facility.

(Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Nicholas V. Huynh/U.S. Navy)

Navy military construction and land acquisition includes a $221.06 million appropriation for the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The Space Force has been allocated $11.4 million for Cape Canaveral to expand construction, water mains and acquire land, while $81 million has been allocated to the base for an engineering test facility.

Another $69.4 million has been allocated for the Marine Corps Support Facility on Blount Island near Jacksonville. The project includes a lighterage and a small craft facility. A further $10.1 million would go toward a command communications center and infrastructure upgrades.

Naval Air Station Jacksonville would receive $35.7 million for an F-35 aircraft engine repair facility and $6.8 million for a child development center.

The bill also allocates $98.5 million for the Whiting Field advanced helicopter training system hangar for the new TH-73 Thrasher training helicopter.

The bill also states that there are certain projects that were authorized in 2020 that have been extended into the 2025 fiscal year budget, which includes a deployment center, flight line dining and a new exchange at the Tyndall Air Force Base. This project has been allocated $43 million.

Another $14 million was allocated to Hurlburt Field, a U.S. Air Force military installation located in Okaloosa County that hosts the Air Force Special Operations Command’s headquarters and the 1st Special Operations Wing.

Jacksonville International Airport has $26.2 million for the Air National Guard for land acquisition and construction projects, including F-35 consolidated weapons training. The 125th Fighter Wing of the Florida Air National Guard will convert from the aging F-15C Eagle to the new F-35s later this year.

The bill further lays out plans to repair Naval Air Station Pensacola. It states that the Secretary of the Navy should develop and implement a plan for the repair or replacement of facilities the secretary deems damaged by Hurricane Sally in 2020.

The Secretary of the Navy is also responsible for producing cost estimates for the project, which includes a new hangar and other infrastructure repairs, as well as any future plans for demolition projects necessary to support military construction.

Published July 24, 2024

Data: Florida’s electricity rates are competitive with neighboring states

July 23, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — Data from the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) and the federal government show the state’s electricity rates remain competitive with other states.

Florida Power & Light Co. (FPL), the largest electricity supplier in the Sunshine State with over 12 million accounts statewide, has the lowest rates of all of Florida’s providers. FPL charges an average of $121.19 per month for 1,000 kilowatt hours of use.

Second is the former Gulf Power, now part of FPL, which charges $135.39 per month for 1,000 kWh.

(Roger W, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons)

Tampa Electric is in the middle of the pack. Its residential customers in Hillsborough, Polk, Pinellas and Pasco Counties have an average monthly bill of $136.44 for 1,000 kWh.

Duke Energy Florida has almost 2 million customers statewide and charges an average of $157.47 per month for residential customers using 1,000 kWh. The Florida Public Utilities Company is the most expensive provider, charging an average of $165.98 for 1,000 kWh.

Some customers could possibly see an increase, however, as Duke Energy Florida and the Tampa Electric Company have filed petitions with the PSC to raise their respective base rates from January 1, 2025. The PSC will make a decision at a final hearing in August.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Florida’s residential rates for residential customers dropped from 15.75 cents per kWh in April 2023 to 14.65 cents per kWh in April 2024.

Florida’s rates remain competitive compared to neighboring states. Georgia’s residential customer per-kWh pricing rose from 13.30 cents in April 2023 to 14.10 cents per kWh. Alabama residential customers had a rate of 14.49 cents per kWh in April 2023, rising to 15.85 cents per kWh in April 2024.

Mississippi’s residential customers also had a price increase between April 2023 and April 2024, climbing from 14.08 cents per kWh to 14.64 cents per kWh.

Some of the highest electricity rates in the U.S. as of April 2024 are in the Northeast and Pacific. Massachusetts utilities charge 29.50 cents per kWh, while Connecticut charges 29.58 cents per kWh. California has a rate of 34.26 cents per kWh and Hawaii has the highest rate of all, charging 45.19 cents per kWh.

Published July 24, 2024

Report: Campaign spending in Florida could top $464M

July 23, 2024 By Andrew Powell

(The Center Square) — Despite no longer being a battleground state, a new report projects spending in Florida will top $464 million for this year’s campaign, one of the largest increases over previous predictions.

According to the latest Political Projections Report by AdImpact, Florida has one of the largest projected increases in political spending, almost $69 million. But unlike Maryland, Montana and Ohio, Florida is not considered a state in contention.

The report notes that the increase in the Sunshine State is due to abortion and marijuana initiatives appearing on the ballot on Nov. 5. Florida was fourth behind Maryland with an almost $100 million increase in predicting spending. Montana’s projection has increased by $85 million, and Ohio has increased by $78 million.

Since September 2023, the report points out there have been significant shifts in the political spending landscape, which resulted in substantial updates to state-level spending projections.

California is projected to spend over $1.1 billion on political campaigns, outpacing all other states by a large margin. Arizona is predicted to spend $803 million, followed closely by Pennsylvania with $800 million.

According to the report, the presidential primary was “one of the most significant unknowns,” largely due to the large number of Republican candidates including Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. It was anticipated that spending would carry through until a nominee was announced. However, the primary was less competitive and less expensive than was initially anticipated.

By March 12, when former President Trump became the presumptive nominee, Republicans had only spent $300 million. In total, just over $500 million was spent on political advertisements targeting the presidential primary date.

In Florida, $103 million was spent on the presidential primary, ranking 10th out of all 50 states. The largest spending came from battleground states, like Pennsylvania, with $360 million in spending during the presidential primary, tops nationally. Arizona came in second with $299 million, while Georgia came in third with $244 million.

The report notes swing states are most likely to decide the 2024 election. It is expected there will be a 17% increase in spending over the 2020 election, with $2.1 billion projected to be spent.

Published July 24, 2024

50 women ‘making waves’

July 16, 2024 By Mary Rathman

The Laker/Lutz News encouraged readers to nominate women in the community who epitomize the word “dynamic.” By definition, dynamic is characterized as a constant change, or progress. It also is used to describe someone who possesses a positive attitude, great energy and new ideas. The 50 Most Dynamic Women of 2024 in the Tampa region (in no particular order) are:

Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Cristy Berry, Stephanie Bracknell Black, Valerie Blanks, Margaret “Margie” Bradley, Diana Brooks, Brie Burke, Maya Burke, Anjel Camenzuli, Lisa Marie Carroll, Angel L. Cook, Jessica Cooper, Jo Cumbo, Ana Dominguez de Shaw, Damaris Diaz, Whitney C. Elmore, Jackie Eden, Dayna Friedman, Dylan Gamez, Sandy Graves, Maria Hixon, Becky Jenkins, Alicia Johnson, Shannon Kennedy, Keke Kikilis, Traci Lamb, Kimberly Lamke, Melissa (Missy) Lea, Christy Maldonado, Amanda Mantaporn, Kristy Margiotta, Kelly Mothershead, Melissa Nordbeck, Roula Papapanos, Rosie Paulsen, Vanessa Phillips, Kimberly Poe, Debbie Lee Proulx, Christie Rinck, Erica Shireman, Melissa Sholler, Shnai Simmons, Jessica Smalley, Brandi Smith, Sabrina Stevens, Ana Hidalgo Stooks, Robyn Tanner, Linda Ward, Vicki Wiggins and Madonna Jervis Wise.

Cristy Berry, Bfit Holistic Health and Wellness

Overcoming chronic health conditions, Cristy Berry reclaimed her life through holistic healing. “I saw numerous doctors over the years in search of a cure or at least something to help me have a quality life,” Berry said. “After many failures in that effort, I took my health into my own hands and began to learn how to heal the body naturally and how the body worked.” Berry’s health journey inspired her to earn board certification as a Doctor of Holistic Health and launch Bfit Holistic Health and Wellness to empower others to transform their lives.

Stephanie Bracknell Black, Pioneer Florida Museum and Village

As executive director for Pioneer Florida Museum and Village, Stephanie Bracknell Black works to enrich cultural experiences in the community. The museum has opened its doors to thousands of students on field trips each year as well as allowed youth to log volunteer and community service hours for college. “Embracing a mindset of collaboration and mutual growth not only fosters a sense of community and goodwill but also paves the way for personal fulfillment and achievement,” she said. Prior to joining the museum in 2015, she worked for Habitat for Humanity of East & Central Pasco, impacting the lives of more than 50 families.

Brie Burke, D.A.Y.S. (Depression Awareness & Youth/Young Adult Suicide)

If Brie Burke looks familiar, you may remember her from one of many movies, commercials and music videos she has starred in. She also has represented Pasco County in the pageant circuit. Burke is not only a professional actress, singer, model and pageant queen, but she also heads up D.A.Y.S. (Depression Awareness & Youth/Young Adult Suicide), a nonprofit that hits close to home. “It is my goal to shine a spotlight on the prevention of youth and young adult suicide, as well as to assist in any way those suffering from bullying, depression and the loss of a loved one due to suicide,” Burke said. “I know personally the effects this has on family and friends, having lost my cousin David to suicide. David is the reason for D.A.Y.S.”

Jackie Eden, Pasco Economic Development Council

Many of the insights that Jackie Eden picked up over the years while owning and operating a business have been passed on to students at Pasco-Hernando State College. She serves as an adjunct professor as well as assistant director of the college’s Career and Testing Center. “My philosophy is to provide practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for real-world business challenges,” Eden said. Outside of work, she has contributed to groups like the RAP House, West Pasco Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club of Trinity, where she installed water filters and latrines in a Honduras village.

Whitney C. Elmore, University of Florida/Pasco County BOCC (Board of County Commissioners)

Servant leadership is at the core of Whitney C. Elmore’s personal philosophy. As the Pasco County Extension director, Elmore strives to remove barriers to personal progress and professional development for her team, which allows them to better serve citizens. “Our guiding mission in Extension is to turn science into solutions which empower citizens socially, environmentally and economically,” Elmore said. “While my role is to empower my team members through servant leadership, so, too, is my mission for the citizens I serve.” She is currently serving as president-elect of the Suncoast Chapter of the Florida Society of Certified Public Managers.

Dylan Gamez, The Hacienda

Dylan Gamez’s journey took an exciting turn in 2009 after moving from Long Island to Florida, where she met her husband, Barrett, and discovered her calling in the hospitality industry while working at Walt Disney World. Being part of the reopening team for The Hacienda in 2021 has been a rewarding experience. She serves as marketing and public relations manager for the historic 1920s-era hotel. “Watching guests walk through the door is still as exciting as the first day we opened the doors,” Gamez said. “We’ve already hosted quite a few celebrities and dignitaries, but the highlight is always the awe on a first-time guest’s face.”

Maria Hixon, Pasco Kids First

After rebuilding her life in Pasco County following the mass shooting at Virginia Tech University in 2007 and later raising two children as a single mother, Maria Hixon advocates for children. As development director for Pasco Kids First, Hixon works to create community ambassadors to continue the organization’s mission of building “brighter futures for children and families.” “The most important thing we can do is to love God and love others as best as we can, forgive others and ourselves, and move forward in making our corner of the world better as much as we can,” she said.

Becky Jenkins, Mobley Homes

To say Becky Jenkins has survived in the male-dominated construction industry would be an understatement. She has thrived, as she celebrates 26 years in the building industry. Not only that, but she has climbed to the role of vice president at Mobley Homes, served on the board of directors of the Tampa Bay Builders Association and won 10 industry awards for design since 2012. She also has donated her time and skills to more than a dozen community organizations. “I have been able to give back to my community while raising a beautiful family and maintaining the role in my company of building new homes for local families to enjoy,” Jenkins said.

Alicia Johnson, Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive

Alicia Johnson and Diana Brooks started Empowerment of Hope a decade ago while working together at a bank, initially operating from their homes. They recognized the need to help people dress professionally, affordably. They successfully transitioned their clothing swaps from annual to semi-annual events held at public locations for free, supported by the community. Their efforts have improved numerous lives. “Hearing the success stories, from individuals finding outfits for job interviews to new relationships being formed, has been incredibly humbling,” Johnson said. “These events have made a real difference in people’s lives, and knowing we played a part in that is deeply rewarding.”

Traci Lamb, Caregiving Worldwide Network

After losing her father in 2022, Traci Lamb dedicated herself to caring for her mother. With support from her mother, Lamb took her business to the next level. She hosts a popular radio show on Legends Radio that reaches about 150,000 people and a streaming TV program that reaches over 600,000 viewers across seven countries, with plans for further expansion and celebrity collaborations. Raising awareness about caregiving has earned Lamb distinctions such as “Top 100 Healthcare Visionaries” in 2019 and “Top Healthcare Influencer” in 2020, from different media outlets.

Kimberly Lamke, Believe It and Achieve It

Occupational therapist Kimberly Lamke never thought about owning a business — until her boss revealed in 2018 that she was retiring and closing the company. Wanting to stay connected to clients, Lamke launched Believe It and Achieve It. The company has thrived despite COVID-19 restrictions and the devastating news that Lamke was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2022. “I knew that I needed to be brave and tenacious to show my children, husband, family, friends and those I worked with that giving up is never an option — that taking each day as it comes and finding a positive in each day helps overcome adversity,” she said. “If you believe it, you can achieve it.”

Christy Maldonado, Social Media Marketing by Christy Maldonado

Christy Maldonado moved to Tampa 23 years ago with the goal of becoming an entrepreneur. “That has been one of the best decisions for me,” said Maldonado, a retired attorney. “I’m dedicated to helping small businesses achieve their goals. As I always say, small businesses with big dreams are my focus.”Maldonado can certainly walk the walk when it comes to goals. Professionally, she became a two-time Amazon best-selling author. Personally, she has lost 158 pounds. Maldonado also has served on the board of directors for Operation Helping Hand Tampa and the Women-n-Charge networking group.

Kristy Margiotta, Bella Partnerships

Kristy Margiotta overcame social anxiety to get involved in the community. This has allowed Margiotta, owner of Bella Partnerships, to build relationships, connect people with needed resources, as well as highlight local nonprofits and small businesses. I am real, relatable and am not afraid to stand up for what is right, as well as stand up for those that can’t stand up for themselves,” Margiotta said. She has been active in the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, serving on the board of directors for its Young Professionals Group and earning Ambassador of the Year honors in 2022.

Kelly Mothershead, City of New Port Richey

Since losing her son to a prescription overdose in 2011, Kelly Mothershead has been devoted to preventing overdose deaths in the community. Mothershead has served on task forces, participated in panels and worked with lawmakers in hopes of making a difference. She stays busy as deputy mayor on the New Port Richey City Council and as a member of several organizations, and also remains one of Tampa Bay’s top 500 real estate agents. She is especially proud of securing a home for a local veteran and his daughter. “That is why I love what I do,” she said. “My goal in life has always been to help others and support my community.”

Melissa Nordbeck, Candidate for Hillsborough County Commissioner District 2

Melissa Nordbeck sees an opportunity to engage the public more when it comes to local government. She is running for the District 2 seat on the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners to increase access to the decision-making process. “Being 50 is extremely liberating,” Nordbeck said. “I feel stronger and braver than ever before. I am more driven and now I have in my sights my purpose — a new voice for northern Hillsborough County.” She enters the race with experience working within the Hammock Woods Special Tax District and Ryan Wells Foundation board of directors.

Brandi Smith, Fred K. Marchman Technical College

Brandi Smith has all the ingredients for a successful career, but her mother’s passing last January prompted the award-winning chef to want to savor what’s truly important. “Until that day, I had been so focused on the daily grind of trying to raise my children, being a good wife, doing my part in supporting our family and focusing on making my business successful that I lost sight of what is truly important in our lives,” Smith said. “Doing good by others, making lasting memories, living a fulfilling life and leaving behind a legacy.” Smith owns Home Cooked Personal Chef Service, teaches culinary arts courses at Fred K. Marchman Technical College and volunteers with Moms Feeding Moms.

Sabrina Stevens, West Coast Karate

Sabrina Stevens not only launched West Coast Karate during the COVID-19 pandemic but she also formed a 501c3 in 2022 that provides funding for children in need to pay for classes, after-school care and tournaments. The West Coast Competitive Martial Arts Foundation helps reach more students of all abilities, giving them a place to feel included and reach their goals. “I am influenced every time I see a child beaming with pride when they reach a goal,” Stevens said. “My philosophy is to never give up. I believe that with hard work, determination and resilience, all things are possible.”

Ana Hidalgo Stooks, LifeChoices Family Medical

Raised by Cuban parents who immigrated to the United States in 1961 with $10 and a suitcase, Ana Hidalgo Stooks went on to make a tremendous impact in her community. Since becoming founding executive director of LifeChoices Family Medical in 2009, the clinic has served more than 57,689 women and families. Stooks also is the proud mother of five young adults. “My parents instilled in all six children the five Fs: faith, family, friends, freedom and fun,” she said. “All of these have been the core of who I am and what I aspire to do to make a difference in my community.”

Robyn Tanner, Robyn Tanner Coaching

Robyn Tanner evolved from getting people in shape as a fitness instructor to changing people’s lives as a future self-strategist and transformation coach. With her no-nonsense coaching style, Tanner empowers women to quit settling, and to pursue their dreams with relentless courage and authenticity. She speaks with authority, having fought her way through grief, divorce, financial ruin, eviction and homelessness after a life-threatening misdiagnosis. “My business has become a symbol of possibility for countless individuals,” she said, “helping them launch businesses, shed over hundreds of pounds, rediscover their faith, break free from abusive relationships, secure green cards and visas, walk away from toxic jobs, complete marathons and triathlons, win multiple physique competitions, find love and even tie the knot.”

Diana Brooks, Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive

Having worked in the deathcare industry for more than 15 years, Diana Brooks encourages others to live every day to the absolute fullest. It’s advice that extends to the Empowerment of Hope: Ladies Clothing Drive, a charity event designed to uplift the female community. “Live unapologetically true to oneself,” Brooks said. “Think, ‘maybe I am not too extra. Maybe you’re just boring.’” If Brooks won the lottery tomorrow, she would continue organizing the event. “It’s just something that brings me so much joy,” she said.

Angel L. Cook, Leaders Insurance

Angel L. Cook credits the RAP House Youth Shelter for instilling in her confidence and a work ethic as a teenager. And she feels so fortunate to have found a career in insurance that has opened many more doors. “This career has allowed me to become active in my community — the same community that supported the RAP House that changed my life,” Cook said. “The minute I made that connection, there was no stopping me. I was and am determined to pay it forward for what this community did for me.” She has given back to organizations such as Community Service Council of West Pasco, Rotary Club of Holiday and the RAP House, just to name a few.

Amanda Mantaporn, Amanda Mantaporn Licensed Health Insurance Agent

Amanda Mantaporn is a licensed health insurance agent, an ambassador with the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, board member for the G2 Community Youth Foundation and a mother. Being self-employed allows her to be the best mom she can be. She values the flexibility in being there for her daughter when she is needed. “My biggest philosophy is to be there when you say you will,” Mantaporn said. “I strive to be on time, to not ‘call out,’ and most importantly to say no when I have a prior obligation. Living with intention is a priority in my life.”

Published July 17, 2024