The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Reduced costs help Duke Energy customers save on bills

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As we head into 2026, we’re reflecting on a year of milestones that help lower customer bills.

Every investment we’ve made in 2025 shared a common purpose: to deliver reliable energy and reduce rates for the customers and communities we serve.

This year, we expanded our clean energy development with three new solar sites in Hernando, Sumter and Madison counties, saving customers an estimated $750 million from displaced fuel costs. By the end of 2027, we’ll bring eight additional solar sites online to further protect customers from fuel prices fluctuations that drive up bills.

We also made major upgrades across our power plants, achieving the output of a new power plant without building one. As a result of the fuel savings from the plant enhancements, customers will save $10 a month on their bills. In DeBary, we successfully tested the nation’s first system capable of producing, storing and using 100% green hydrogen, an innovative step towards reliable, carbon-free energy.

Our teams also strengthened the grid with storm-hardened lines and self-healing technology, preventing more than 215,000 hours of outages in 2025.

By March 2026, Duke Energy Florida residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity will see their monthly bills decrease on average by $44, or 22%, compared to January.

As we head into 2026, our priorities remain the same. We’ll continue investing in innovation to strengthen our communities and lower bills. Every project and improvement we complete is focused on building a stronger energy future for our Florida customers.

 Melissa Seixas serves as president of Duke Energy Florida.

 

Business Digest (12/31/25): Museum leader announces retirement

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Tampa Museum of Art leader announces retirement

TAMPA – Michael Tomor plans to retire as executive director of the Tampa Museum of Art, effective March 31.

Tomor has worked 40 years at art museums, including just over a decade at the Tampa Museum of Art.

During his tenure, the Tampa Museum of Art has acquired 1,500 new objects for its permanent collection and completed a renovation that added 32,000 square feet of exhibition spaces in four promenades and 12 new galleries.

“This last decade has been one of great advancements for the institution,” Tomor said. “I’m proud of the incredible work we have accomplished as a team and as a community.”

Over the last five years, Tomor has led the museum through an ongoing $100 million capital campaign to renovate and expand the museum. The expansion and fundraising remain underway and unchanged.

“He has expanded our art collections, strengthened our financial foundation, grown the museum’s reach in the community and advanced the bold vision for our expansion,” said Ron Christaldi, chair of the board of trustees.

The museum will conduct a national search for a new leader using a professional search firm.

 

$2.7M  in welding scholarships open for applications

MIAMI – The American Welding Society Foundation is accepting applications for its 2026 scholarship season, with $2.7 million available to support students pursuing welding and related fields across North America. 

The deadline for AWS National, District and Section Scholarships is March 1. Apply at scholarship.aws.org.

In 2025, the AWS Foundation awarded scholarships to more than 1,500 students, providing support ranging from $1,000 to over $8,000. Recipients attended 430 institutions across the U.S. and internationally.

AWS scholarships are available for all levels of welding education,  from short-term technical programs to associate and bachelor’s degrees. 

 

Florida Supreme Court filling vacancy

TAMPA –Ten people have submitted applications to the Florida Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Justice Charles Canady.

Applicants are Alex Bokor, Hunter Carroll, Roger Gannam, John Guard, Robert Long, Joshua Mize, Thomas Palermo, Samuel Salario, Jared Smith and Adam Tanenbaum.

Interviews were scheduled to occur Dec. 29 in Tampa.

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Lunch N’ Learn and a Leadership Tampa Bay event. 

  • Members meet with Leadership Tampa Bay board members and alumni to gauge interest from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Jan. 14 at Florida Avenue Brewing, 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, Wesley Chapel. 
  • Jacqueline Nelms, founder of Mindful Elevation LLC, talks about mental resilience and strategic leadership during a Lunch N’ Learn from noon to 1:30 p.m. Jan. 15 at The North Tampa Bay Chamber Conference, 28329 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel, Registration costs $15. Register in advance. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange and young professionals programming. 

  • Members trade company literature during the Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Jan. 8 at SpringHill Suites, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members pay $14. Others pay $10. Food costs $14. Register in advance. 
  • Young Professionals Group members network during a social from 6 to 8 p.m. Jan. 9 at Dented Keg Ale Works, 5500 Main St., Suite 104, New Port Richey, 

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

 

East Pasco events

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

  • Members network during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Jan. 2 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.) and 8 to 9 a.m. Jan. 6 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.). 
  • Members network at the monthly Business Breakfast from 7 to 8:30 a.m. Jan. 8 at Dan Cannon Auditorium, 36722 County Road 52, Dade City. The event costs $15. Register in advance. 

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

BayCare names chief philanthropy officer

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CLEARWATER – BayCare Health System has named Kate Sawa its first chief philanthropy officer.

Sawa will continue to serve as president of the St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation, including the St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital Foundation.

“Families across West Central Florida need access to excellent health care close to home, and our generous donors and community partners help make that possible,” said Stephanie Conners, president and CEO of BayCare. “Kate’s vision and authentic leadership will help us deepen these vital partnerships and work together to create lasting impact across the communities we’re privileged to serve.”

In her expanded role, Sawa will partner with the leaders of four other Baycare hospital organizations, which will continue to have their own boards and independence, to advance BayCare’s philanthropic efforts.

Sawa’s leadership is shaped by her personal and professional experiences. 

Early in her career, she founded a nonprofit inspired by her sister’s journey with Down syndrome. 

She later served as the local executive director of the American Heart Association and then went on to hold national roles within the organization. 

She became the leader of St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation in 2021. Since then, she has been key to BayCare’s commitment to build a new, freestanding facility for St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. 

Under Sawa’s leadership, the St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation announced in 2023 a $50 million naming gift from Sidd Pagidipati and his family to support what will be known as the Pagidipati Children’s Hospital at St. Joseph’s. The new hospital facility is scheduled to open in 2030.

“BayCare is truly a special place where our physicians, nurses and team members are passionate about providing the highest-quality, compassionate care for our communities. It’s always about doing what’s right by the patient as the work truly matters in the lives of children and families,” Sawa said. “I’m honored to help play a role by connecting our generous donors, who inspire us to see all the possibilities for improving health care in West Central Florida.”

 

Pasco County expands housing options 

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NEW PORT RICHEY – Pasco County is allowing property owners to build or create various types of accessory dwelling units. 

These small, secondary homes can help families live together more comfortably by providing relief from rising rental or mortgage costs. Or when used for long-term rentals, they can help a homeowner make extra money.

Adding an accessory dwelling unit to a property can provide the following benefits:

  • Multi-generational living. Create space for elderly parents or young adults.
  • Extra income. Earn income through long-term rental use (more than 180 days).
  • Property value boost. Increase the overall worth of your home.

Accessory dwelling units can take many forms. A homeowner can convert a garage or attic into a mother-in-law suite, build an attached apartment or add a stand-alone unit, such as a tiny house. 

Accessory dwelling units can be included during new construction or added later, depending on one’s needs.

Pasco County says that before homeowners build, they must ensure the following: 

  • Accessory dwelling units will be on a property zoned for single-family homes.
  • The unit will be built on a permanent, fixed foundation.
  • The unit design complements the primary home, with size/height limitations.
  • The homeowner secures a building permit (required for new construction, additions and structural changes).

Visit mypas.co/adu or call the building construction services department at 727-847-8126 for more details or questions about Pasco’s accessory dwelling unit requirements.

Concert supports theater renovation campaign

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Jesse Triplett, Ed Roland and Jonny Rabb share the stage. Photo courtesy of Richey Suncoast Theatre

 

 

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Richey Suncoast Theatre more than doubled its $20,000 fundraising goal for “Letters from E: An Evening with Ed Roland of Collective Soul.”

The benefit concert officially kicked off the theater’s capital fundraising campaign to renovate and preserve the nearly 100-year-old venue.

The event raised a total of $42,550 through ticket sales, sponsorships and an online auction featuring exclusive signed memorabilia from Collective Soul, Our Lady Peace, Live! and private donors. 

These funds will directly support the theater’s renovation projects, including a new roof, updated windows and doors, and an exterior update. These upgrades will ensure the historic venue continues to serve as a home for the performing arts for generations to come.

The concert’s success was made possible by the generosity of Ed Roland, frontman of Collective Soul, who donated the entire performance. 

Roland was joined on stage by his bandmates Johnny Rabb and Jesse Triplett, creating an unforgettable night of music for a sold-out audience.

“This event was a powerful beginning to our renovation campaign and a reminder of what community collaboration can achieve,” said Lia Gallegos, interim president of Richey Suncoast Theatre. “Ed’s generosity, combined with the enthusiasm of our sponsors, donors and guests, made this night one for the history books.”

The “Letters from E” benefit concert will now become an annual event, continuing to unite music lovers and arts supporters in sustaining the Richey Suncoast Theatre for the next century. 

Visit richeysuncoasttheatre.com for more information about the Richey Suncoast Theatre, upcoming performances or to contribute to the ongoing renovation campaign.

Chalk Talk (12/24/25): Students, seniors connect through light

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Students at Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay made connections with residents at Aston Gardens through a Chanukah celebration. Photo courtesy of Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay

Students, older adults connect through light

TAMPA – Lower elementary students at Hebrew Academy Tampa Bay took part in one of the school’s most cherished traditions: the annual Chanukah celebration with the residents at Aston Gardens. 

The visit began with lively Chanukah songs that filled the room with energy and joy. The residents clapped along, many joining in softly, at first, as familiar melodies sparked memories. 

After uniting in song, students and seniors gathered together around tables for a few spirited rounds of dreidel. Laughter echoed as everyone compared spins, traded chocolate gelt and enjoyed the friendly competition.

The students also brought fresh latkes and applesauce.

Many residents commented on how meaningful it was to celebrate together and how the students’ presence brightened their day.

 

Performing Arts Series returns

NEW PORT RICHEY – Tickets are on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Performing Arts Series.

  • Jan. 9 – Yacht Rock (1970s and 1980s rock).
  • Feb. 6 – Dwight Icenhower (Elvis Presley tribute).
  • Feb. 27 – Crystal Stark: Divas of Disco.
  • March 20 – The Edge Effect (acapella).
  • April 10 – Honky Tonk Chicks (Country).

Tickets range from $30 to $35 with discounts available for season ticket packages and groups. Buy tickets at phsc.tix.com.

 

District names Outstanding Seniors

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools has identified 17 students as Outstanding Seniors.

Profiles for each student are available on the district website, highlighting scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship and extracurricular activities.

Winners and their schools are as follows: 

  • Michael Whittaker, Anclote High School
  • Danya Nasiri, Angeline Academy of Innovation
  • Lindsay Fulop, Cypress Creek High School
  • Braydin Gadouas, Fivay High School
  • Miles Slavinsky, Gulf High School
  • Mylah Short, Hudson High School
  • Sadie Graber, J. W. Mitchell High School
  • Mariana Vargas, Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation
  • Emerson Phelps, Land O’Lakes High School
  • Parker Baldwin, Pasco eSchool
  • Olivia Simmons, Pasco High School
  • Logan Owens, River Ridge High School
  • Reese Van Brocklin, Sunlake High School
  • Lucy Kossoff, Wendell Krinn Technical High School
  • Jadon Wilson, Wesley Chapel High School
  • Nathan Finkel, Wiregrass Ranch High School
  • Ethan Stone, Zephyrhills High School

 

Pasco County Schools recognizes staff

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized two staff members Dec. 16 for going above and beyond the call of duty.

  • Tina Ray,  of West Pasco Education Academy, not only has more than 25 years of experience in alternative education but also pitches in with programs at the school. 
  • Logan Gardner, of Watergrass Elementary School, was nominated for being a supportive teacher and team lead.

 

Quick Hits

  • Lorea Sprackling of Lutz, was elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at The University of Tampa.
  • Chloe Benoist of Odessa, was named to the Fall 2025 Dean’s List at Berry College in Rome, Georgia. Students must have an academic average of 3.5 with at least 12 hours to qualify. 
  • Benjamin Terlion, of Land O’ Lakes, earned a bachelor’s degree in aviation at Minnesota State University, Mankato. 
  • Jenna Backus, of Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation, won a $40,000 scholarship from the College Board.
  • Nirvika Ramsetty, of Oakstead Elementary School, won an essay contest run by Pasco County Clerk and Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles.
  • Ava Reiners, of Wendell Krinn Technical High School, is nominated for the U.S. Presidential Scholar Program in Career and Technical Education.

 

AdventHealth, Bolts Blue Crew help deliver holiday joy

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Christmas in Class makes holiday gifts possible for hundreds of children each year. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

 

TAMPA – Students at Foster Academy were treated to a special holiday surprise Dec. 19 as AdventHealth team members joined the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Bolts Blue Crew to deliver Christmas gifts directly to classrooms.

Throughout the morning, students received gifts, AdventHealth Buddy Bears and plenty of hugs from Santa. For some children, the gift they received through Christmas with Class may be the only Christmas present they receive this year.

The Christmas with Class program supports students in high-need communities. The program was founded by Stephanie and Blaine Patterson.

In recognition of its impact, Christmas with Class was honored as an AdventHealth Goal Getter on Dec. 18 during the Tampa Bay Lightning game against the Los Angeles Kings. A special video highlighting the program’s work played on the arena’s big screen.

Habitat families receive new bicycles for their children

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Bicycles were donated through a partnership with onbikes, a Tampa-based nonprofit that unites the community for bike builds and events. Its annual Winter Wonder Ride had more than 2,000 festively dressed bicyclists cruising through downtown Tampa. Photo courtesy of Habitat of Tampa Bay Hillsborough
Families received the new bikes this Christmas and should be moved into their new Habitat homes by next Christmas. Photo courtesy of Habitat of Tampa Bay Hillsborough

TAMPA – Christmas came early for 25 Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough families, as children received 50 new bicycles thanks to the onbikes program and community supporters.

Ten Habitat families picked up bicycles Dec. 18 at the onbikes warehouse, where some excited children had the chance to receive and ride their new bikes. 

For many children, it’s the first set of wheels they’ve ever owned. 

An additional 15 families received their bicycles the week prior. Some parents chose to make the bikes a surprise waiting under the tree on Christmas morning.

For families working toward first-time homeownership with Habitat, the gift represents more than a holiday surprise. Parents say the bicycles bring joy and encouragement as they continue to invest hundreds of “sweat equity” hours toward the purchase of a safe, affordable Habitat home with a mortgage designed to fit their budget.

“These families are doing the real work and moving closer to the dream of being able to put down roots for the next generation,” said Tina Forcier, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough. “It’s a little extra Christmas magic, so their children will also know that wonderful feeling of having their own new bikes to ride.”

 

News Briefs (12/24/25): GoPasco launches new bus route

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GoPasco launches new bus route

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Public Transportation (GoPasco) will introduce a new bus route serving the Land O’ Lakes area beginning Jan. 5.

Route 41 will provide weekday service with access to Route 54, which connects New Port Richey and Zephyrhills and offers regional connections with HART and PSTA. The route includes 16 northbound stops and 15 southbound stops.

Key stops include Heritage Park, Land O’ Lakes High School, Pasco County Utilities Building, Tax Collector’s Office, USPS, Walmart (U.S. 41 and Dale Mabry), and the Pasco County Corrections Visitation & Resource Center.

Schedules and route details are available at mypas.co/BusRoutes. Riders can track buses in real time using the myStop app. 

 

Pasco County commissioners reorganizes

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Pasco Board of County Commissioners reorganized at its Dec. 9 meeting.

The board elected Jack Mariano as chair, Seth Weightman as vice chair and Lisa Yeager as second vice chair.

“I’m honored to begin serving as chair of this commission,” Mariano said. “Pasco County has made tremendous progress in becoming a place where people want to live, work and build their future. I look forward to continuing that momentum and ensuring Pasco remains a county of opportunity, innovation and quality of life for all.”

The board consists of the following members: Ron Oakley (District 1), Seth Weightman (District 2), Kathryn Starkey (District 3), Lisa Yeager (District 4) and Jack Mariano (District 5).

Pasco County Commission meetings are usually held every other Tuesday, alternating between the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey and the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City.

 

Zephyrhills announces 2026 Photography Contest

ZEPHYRHILLS – The City of Zephyrhills and the Zephyrhills Community Redevelopment Agency are inviting photographers of all ages and skill levels to enter the 2026 City of Zephyrhills Photo Contest. 

Participants are encouraged to submit one original digital photo showcasing a local landmark or meaningful place in Zephyrhills, from historic sites and parks to public art, iconic signs and community gathering spots.

Prizes include $300 for first place, $200 for second and $100 for third. The first-place entry will also be submitted to the FCCMA Statewide Photo Contest.

Entries are due Jan. 5 by 11:59 p.m. Email submissions to and include your name and phone number. Rules are available at zephyrhills.gov or .

 

Pasco County offices to close for Christmas holiday

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Board of Commissioners offices will be closed Thursday, Dec. 25, and Friday, Dec. 26, in observance of Christmas. Offices will reopen Monday, Dec. 29.

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources offices, recreation complexes and community centers will be closed through Saturday, Dec. 27, though parks and beaches will remain open from dawn to dusk. 

GoPasco will not operate on Dec. 25 and will resume regular service on Dec. 26; administrative offices will remain closed.

Libraries will close at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, through Saturday, Dec. 27. 

Animal Services facilities will be closed with emergency response only; adoption services reopen Dec. 27. 

Solid waste facilities will be closed Dec. 25. They will also be closed to the public Dec. 26; however, they will be open to Pasco County licensed commercial haulers.

 

Pasco County offices to close for New Year’s holiday

PASCO COUNTY – Pasco County Board of Commissioners offices will be closed Thursday, Jan. 1, and Friday, Jan. 2, in observance of New Year’s. Government offices will reopen Monday, Jan. 5.

Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources offices, recreation complexes and community centers will be closed through Saturday, Jan. 3, though parks and beaches remain open dawn to dusk. 

GoPasco will not operate Jan. 1 and will resume regular service Jan. 2, with administrative offices closed.

Libraries will close at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31, through Jan. 2. 

Animal Services facilities will be closed, with emergency response only; adoption services reopen Jan. 3. 

Solid waste facilities will be closed Jan. 1. ​​They will be closed to the public Jan. 2; however, they will be open to Pasco County licensed commercial haulers.

Chicken dinners lead to community winners

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The City of Zephyrhills Mayor’s Youth Council shared proceeds of its Chicken BBQ Drive-Thru fundraiser with CHIPZ. The event saw strong community involvement. Photo courtesy of City of Zephyrhills

ZEPHYRHILLS – The City of Zephyrhills Mayor’s Youth Council presented an $11,000 check to the Community Hope and Intervention Project of Zephyrhills during a city council meeting Dec. 8 at Zephyrhills City Hall.

Members of the youth council, led by Mayor Melonie Bahr Monson, selected CHIPZ as their annual community project, setting an original fundraising goal of $4,000. 

CHIPZ supports people experiencing homelessness in the Zephyrhills area through outreach and prevention, community navigation and connections to critical resources. The 501c3 organization strives “to create and increase access to programs, services and housing for the most vulnerable residents of Zephyrhills and the surrounding area.”

The youth council raised $10,830 through its citywide Chicken BBQ Drive-Thru fundraiser. 

Pitmaster Kevin Bahr, of Bahr’s Propane Gas & A/C, prepared all 350 chicken dinners with support from Beth Aker, executive director of Meals on Wheels of Pasco.

Ten youth council members and six volunteers from the Zephyrhills JROTC and Zephyrhills FFA assisted during the event. City staff and youth council mentors also supported operations throughout the evening. 

The event had 20 community sponsors, many of whom donated their purchased meals, allowing more than 150 dinners to be served directly to residents in need.

Additional last-minute contributions from community donors pushed the total to $11,000.