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What’s Happening (02/25/26)

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Feb. 26

Woodworking

Land O’ Lakes Library invites adults ages 18+ (or youth 9+ with guardian) to use Makerspace tools for approved projects. Bring your own plans and materials. Closed-toe shoes and completed Foundry Waiver & Safety Playbook forms required. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

9-10:30 a.m.; 10:30 a.m.-noon; or noon-1:30 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Storytime Fun!

Toddlers and preschoolers read, sing and dance at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Preschool Storytime

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

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

 

Gardening Workshop

UF-IFAS Extension presents: Timely Tasks and Tips for Your Landscape at New River Library. Register in advance. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

Concert

Suzanne and Jim perform a concert at Hugh Embry Library. Call 352-567-3576 for details.

2-3 p.m.; 14215 4th St., Dade City 

 

Mat Yoga

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

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

 

Yarn for a Cause

Join other yarn enthusiasts for a weekly gathering at New River Library. Participants share projects, tips and inspiration. Call 813-788-6375 for details.

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

 

Winter Ball Fundraiser

Live Oak Theatre and Conservatory invites the public to “Once Upon a Time,” an evening of dining, dancing and entertainment at the Carol and Frank Morsani Center for the Arts. The event raises money for the installation of a fence to keep students and patrons safe. The suggested donation is $85 per person. Buy a ticket, sponsor the event or make a donation by reaching out to , calling the box office at 352-593-0027 or visiting https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2026-once-upon-a-time-gala. facebook.com/LiveOakTheatre

6:30 p.m.; 21030 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville

 

Feb. 26-March 8

Strawberry Festival 

The Florida Strawberry Festival celebrates agriculture through exhibits, rides and entertainment. flstrawberryfestival.com

Various times; 303 BerryFest Place, Plant City

 

Feb. 27

Toddler Storytime

Land O’ Lakes Library invites toddlers ages 1-2 and their caregivers for storytime. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Feb. 28

Golf Fundraiser 

The GFWC TampaBay Woman’s Club invites the community to hit the links for a great cause on Feb. 28 at the newly renovated Tampa Bay Golf and Country Club. The event takes on a mixed team scramble format. Mulligans and extra putts are available. The tournament includes contests, prizes, drawings and a BBQ buffet lunch.

 Pick up a registration form at the pro shop or email . Proceeds support charities including the Veteran’s Depot, Joshua House and Sunrise Domestic Violence Center.

8:30 a.m.; 10641 Old Tampa Bay Drive, Tampa

 

BBQ & Blues

The Pigs in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival features a barbecue competition, children’s fun zone, hog calling and music from the likes of The Nightbumpers and Thunderbolt Brown in Downtown Zephyrhills. eastpascochamber.org/pigz-in-zhills-bbq-blues-festival/

9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Downtown Zephyrhills

 

Supersized Storytime

Children listen to stories and songs during Supersized Storytime at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Pokémon Party

Centennial Park Library throws a Pokémon Party with crafts, games and fun. Call 727-834-3204 for details.

2-4 p.m.; 5740 Moon Road, Holiday

 

Tribute Concert

The Beach Buoys perform hits from the Beach Boys in a concert at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Tickets cost $13, plus taxes and fees. Call 727-815-7126 for details. 

7-8:30 p.m.; 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa

 

March 3

Medicare/Medicaid

Learn about Medicare, Medicaid and food stamps at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call José Rodríguez at 813-420-3013 for details.

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

 

Woodworking

Land O’ Lakes Library invites adults ages 18+ (or youth 9+ with guardian) to use Makerspace tools for approved projects. Bring your own plans and materials. Closed-toe shoes and completed Foundry Waiver & Safety Playbook forms required. Registration required. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

10-11:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Eco Wonders

UF Extension presents “Cuttings – Plants for wildlife diversity in our Florida yards” during the Eco Wonders program for ages 7-11 at New River Library. Call 813-788-6375 for details. 

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

 

March 4

Baby Storytime

Babies sit on a parent’s lap during Baby Storytime at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

Chair Yoga

Adults do various poses during Chair Yoga at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

10:30-11:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 5347 8th St., Zephyrhills

 

Museum Lecture

The Dali Museum presents “Edutainment in the 21st Century: How the Dali Museum Combines Art and Technology” at Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center. Call 727-815-7126 for details.

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

 

Mat Yoga

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

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

 

Master Gardener

Learn about the Florida wetlands during a Master Gardener event at Land O’ Lakes Library. Call 813-929-1214 for details.

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

 

March 5

Storytime Fun!

Toddlers and preschoolers read, sing and dance at Zephyrhills Public Library. Call 813-780-0064 for details.

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

 

Mat Yoga

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

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

 

March 6-7

Yard Sale

A community yard sale will be held at American Legion Post #15 on March 6 (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and March 7 (8 a.m. to 2 p.m.). Contact Barbara Smith at 336-524-4219 or for details. 

Various times; 37745 Church Ave., Dade City

 

Spring Book Sale

LOL Library Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library holds its spring book sale March 6 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and March 7 (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.). The bag sale begins March 7 (1 to 3 p.m.). There will also be some collectible books and special priced series available at the book sale. Cash or check only. Call 813-929-1214 with further questions. Various times; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

March 8

Kumquat Festival

The 29th annual Kumquat Festival has been postponed to March 8 due to weather. Hosted by the Greater East Pasco Chamber of Commerce, the free family-friendly festival welcomes more than 40,000 attendees each year for arts & crafts vendors, kumquat treats, live entertainment and community fun. kumquatfestival.org or eastpasochamber.org

9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Downtown Dade City

 

March 9

The Zephyrhills Art Club meets at First Baptist Church. The club offers workshops and demonstrations. Guests and members should use the back entrance. Call Sandra Lallemand at 352-523-1213 for details. 

7 p.m.; 38231 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills

 

March 11

GFWC Pasco Junior Woman’s Club hosts a free clothing swap at Land O’ Lakes Library. Free clothing and small household items. Donations are welcome but not required. All donations left will be donated to the local women’s shelter.

6:15-7:45 p.m.; 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes

 

Ongoing

Photo Club

Land O Lakes Photography Club meets via Zoom the first Tuesday of the month. Those with an interest in photography may attend a first meeting by contacting Lillian Cucuzza at for a link to the meeting.

7 p.m.; online

 

News Briefs (02/25/26): Woman’s club supports veterans

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GFWC Lutz–Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club delivers a $2,000 check to Operation Patriots. Photo courtesy of Patty Camunas

Woman’s club supports veterans

LAND O’ LAKES – GFWC Lutz–Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club presented a $2,000 check to Operation Patriots from the proceeds of its Tombola fundraiser to support entertainment and cookouts for veterans at Baldomero Lopez State Veterans’ Home.

The presentation took place Feb. 7 at the veterans’ home in Land O’ Lakes.

Club leaders said the donation reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to community service and honoring local veterans who have served the nation.

 

Scrivener running for 12th Congressional District

LAND O’ LAKES — Branden Scrivener has announced an independent bid for Florida’s 12th Congressional District, saying his campaign will focus on government accountability, education and lowering living costs.

“I am running for Congress to put people over special interests,” Scrivener said. “Our current system is built to serve corporate and foreign interests while the working class is left behind. It’s time for a representative who is unowned by political parties, figureheads and special interests. One who is focused solely on our community.”

His platform includes term limits and limits on corporate donations, fully funding Title I public schools and addressing medical debt and housing affordability.

Learn more about his campaign at brandenscrivenerfl.info.

 

Fundraiser helps police officers

TAMPA – West Central Florida Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) will host its Blue Hope Gala on March 7 at the Firefighters Museum. 

The chapter is seeking sponsorships and auction items for the event, with all donations tax-deductible.

Donna Wudyka, a retired Detroit police officer and president of the West Central Florida chapter, said the organization supports families and co-workers of officers killed in the line of duty across nine counties, including Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas.

The nonprofit provides emotional support, financial and legal resources, training for agencies and travel assistance for survivors attending National Police Week.

National C.O.P.S. has served more than 80,000 survivors through over 50 chapters nationwide.

Contact Wudyka at 313-622-6048 for sponsorship information.

Register at https://qtego.us/qlink/wcfcops.

 

Business Digest (02/25/26): CEOs continue building Habitat home

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HGTV’s “100 Day Dream Home” hosts Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt pose for a photo during Day 3 of Habitat’s 2026 CEO Build. Photo courtesy of Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside

CEOs continue building Habitat home
LARGO – More than a dozen Tampa Bay-area CEOs volunteered Feb. 13 in the Ridgecrest community of Largo during Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside’s fifth annual CEO Build.

The event marked the third of four build days supporting a new home for the Wesley family. Participants laid sod and planted greenery. 

Brian Kleinschmidt and Mika Kleinschmidt, hosts of “100 Day Dream Home,” served as guest site supervisors.

Since launching in 2022, the CEO Build has grown from 50 leaders raising $160,000 to 100 leaders raising $250,000 this year to provide a safe, affordable home for Tyshawnna and Andre Wesley and their four sons.

On the web: habitattbg.org/ceobuild/

 

Duke Energy offers customers resources 

TAMPA – Floridians may see higher power bills following the recent cold snap as heating systems worked harder and used more energy.

Duke Energy Florida said rates are still declining overall. Residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours will see a $33 reduction on February bills compared to January, followed by another $11 decrease in March.

The company also warns scams may increase. Nearly 800 scam reports were made in February 2025 after a previous cold snap, and a similar spike is expected.

Customers can request installment plans, due date extensions and access programs such as Share the Light Fund. Free home energy assessments and rebates are also available.

“Duke Energy has a dedicated team ready to provide our customers with the individualized support they need,” said Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president.

 

Golf tourney to raise scholarship dollars

WESLEY CHAPEL – The North Tampa Bay Chamber Foundation will host the inaugural Fairways to the Future: Scholarship Golf Tournament presented by AdventHealth Wesley Chapel on April 10 at Saddlebrook Resort.

The scramble-format tournament supports scholarships for local graduating seniors. Golfers of all skill levels can register as a team or individual. The event includes prizes, raffles, hole challenges and a post-play awards luncheon. Special guests and celebrity golfers will also participate.

Registration begins at 8 a.m., followed by a 9 a.m. shotgun start.

Fees are $700 per team of four or $175 per individual player.

Visit northtampabaychamber.com for details.

 

Carol L. Kinnard facilitated a land sale in West Pasco County. She said there’s continued investor interest in well-located development sites within the Port Richey market. Photo courtesy of Hold-Thyssen

19 acres sell in Port Richey

PORT RICHEY – Hold-Thyssen, a commercial real estate firm based in Clearwater and Winter Park, has completed the sale of a 19-plus-acre vacant tract at Richey Drive and Wilkins Street.

Carol L. Kinnard, a transaction specialist in the firm’s Clearwater office, represented the seller, Jose Albert Kreijman of Malaga, Spain, and the buyer, Port Richey Drive LLC of Delray Beach.

“This sale reflects ongoing demand for well-positioned land in Port Richey and surrounding communities,” Kinnard said. “Large tracts like this are increasingly difficult to find, and buyers recognize the long-term value of securing land in growing corridors.”

Hold-Thyssen specializes in commercial sales, leasing and investment properties statewide.

 

Pasco County explains purchasing opportunities

WESLEY CHAPEL – The Pasco County Purchasing Department will host its “Doing Business with Pasco County” Vendor Workshop and Reverse Trade Show on March 2 at the Wesley Chapel Recreation Complex.

The event invites vendors interested in working with the Pasco Board of County Commissioners to learn how to bid on county projects and connect with departments, major vendors and other business owners.

Topics include the Vendor Preference Policy, RFP and RSQ processes, the Consultants Competitive Negotiation Act, and how to prepare and submit bids and proposals. Attendees will also learn about county operations and available resources.

The workshop runs from 2 to 4 p.m. at 7727 Boyette Road, Wesley Chapel.

On the web: mypas.co/VendorWorkshop.

 

Bilirakis visits tax prep site

HOLIDAY – U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis visited a federally funded free tax preparation site Feb. 6 in Pasco County operated by IRS-certified volunteers through Seniors in Service Tampa.

Free services are available at Regency Park Civic Center, 10240 Regency Park Blvd., Port Richey, and Holiday United Church of Christ, 4826 Bartelt Road, Holiday. 

The program, serving the community since 2005, assists low- and moderate-income residents, prioritizing households earning under $100,000. Returns are filed electronically, with refunds typically issued within 10 days to two weeks.

Bilirakis thanked volunteers and highlighted changes under the Working Families Tax Credit Act, including potential deductions for tips, overtime pay and an additional $6,000 deduction for seniors 65 and older.

Appointments are available at events.seniorsinservice.org/taxprep or by calling 813-819-9864.

 

Community partners such as Tim Hurley of CarePlus Health Plans help ensure veterans at Liberty Manor have access to basic resources. Hurley regularly visits Liberty Manor for Veterans to support residents. Visit libertymanor.org to learn more about the nonprofit. Photo courtesy of Liberty Manor for Veterans

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a New Member Orientation and Final Friday.

  • Hope Kennedy, president and CEO, leads a New Member Orientation from 9 to 10 a.m. Feb. 25 at the chamber office, 28329 Paseo Drive, Suite 195, Wesley Chapel. 
  • Members network during Final Friday from 4 to 6 p.m. Feb. 27 at Treble Makers Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant, 6034 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 100, Wesley Chapel. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber will host the New Port Richey Business Exchange and programming for women. 

  • Members trade company literature during the New Port Richey Business Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 26 at Seafire Grill, 4927 U.S. 19, New Port Richey. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Register in advance. 
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of High Trim LLC from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 27 at 15036 U.S. 19 N., Hudson. The ribbon cutting starts at 1 p.m. 
  • The Young Professionals Group networks during Coffee Connections from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Feb. 27 at Starkey Market, 3460 Starkey Blvd., Trinity. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – The East Pasco Chamber will host Coffee & Networking and Core Connections. 

  • Members network during Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. Feb. 27 at the Zephyrhills office (38550 5th Ave.) and 8 to 9 a.m. March 3 at the Dade City office (14112 8th St.). 

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

 

Health & Wellness (02/25/26): AdventHealth talks heart health

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During the Every Beat Counts heart symposium, community members got to speak with AdventHealth’s expert team of doctors to learn more about common heart conditions, warning signs and treatment options available in the Sebring area. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

 

Event attendees also got to take part in a special panel discussion with Dr. Giancarlo Speziani, Dr. Thomas Shimshak, Dr. Deepti Bhandare and James Leicht, who are all part of AdventHealth Sebring’s heart care team. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

AdventHealth helps families take charge of heart health

SEBRING – AdventHealth Sebring is expanding outreach to protect heart health in rural Highlands County, where residents face higher rates of heart disease.

Dozens attended the hospital’s annual Every Beat Counts Heart Symposium on Feb. 3, where physicians discussed common heart conditions, warning signs and treatment options, and showcased local diagnostic technology.

“For many people, heart disease can feel overwhelming,” said Dr. Thomas Shimshak, chair of interventional cardiology at AdventHealth Sebring. “Our goal is to help people understand their risk, recognize symptoms early and know that exceptional whole-person heart care is available here in our community.”

The hospital plans a 100,000-square-foot expansion, including an open-heart program, with completion expected in fall 2027.

 

University gets access to health care tech

TAMPA – The University of South Florida’s Center for Advanced Medical Learning and Simulation has become the first institution in Florida and third worldwide to install GE HealthCare’s Allia Moveo image-guided therapy system.

CAMLS, part of the Tampa Medical & Research District, will be the first simulation center globally to integrate the technology into advanced education programs, allowing students and clinicians to train on hybrid operating room technology used in minimally invasive procedures.

“Gaining access to the latest surgical imaging and guidance technologies further ensures that innovation in education keeps pace with innovation in care,” said Dr. Haru Okuda, executive director of CAMLS.

A second Allia Moveo system is scheduled for installation later this year at Tampa General Hospital for clinical use in its hybrid operating rooms.

 

Hospital celebrates innovation center

TAMPA – Tampa General Hospital recently celebrated the grand opening of the 32,000-square-foot TGH Innovation Center in Ybor City. 

The facility, located within the Tampa Medical & Research District, will house TGH’s innovation, ventures, analytics and IT teams, along with district offices and Palantir’s Tampa headquarters. It includes event space, classrooms, production studios and a “hospital room of the future” showcasing clinical technology.

Officials say the center will serve as a collaborative hub for startups, researchers and industry partners.

 

Book explains concept of moral injury

TAMPA – Dr. James Taylor has released “Moral Injury: Arming Pastors to Help Veterans Battle Soul Wounds Caused by Military Service” through WestBow Press.

The book addresses the spiritual wounds many veterans carry home from combat.

Taylor contends that while churches honor military service, many lack understanding of “moral injury” — the inner conflict that occurs when wartime actions violate deeply held beliefs. He writes that such wounds require spiritual care, reconciliation and pastoral support, not clinical treatment alone.

The book encourages pastors to recognize their biblical role in soul care, understand military culture and help veterans navigate reintegration. It also explores Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as a values-based framework compatible with Christian theology.

Taylor is a retired U.S. Navy command master chief and former VA chaplain leader. The book is available through major retailers.

 

Hospital offers breastfeeding support 

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

Events are open to all, regardless of 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 an optional support person. The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. The support group will be held March 5 and 19, 10 to 11 a.m.
  • Understanding Breastfeeding: Provides information to the expectant mother and an optional 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 March 5, 1 to 5 p.m.
  • Understanding Your Newborn: Provides information to the expectant mother and an optional support person about many aspects of safe infant care, including feeding, diapering, bathing, signs of illness and cues and communication. The class will be held March 19, 1 to 5 p.m.

Register for the free events by visiting BayCareEvents.org and choosing “St. Joseph’s Hospital-North” in the “Facility/Location” filter and scrolling to the group or class you are interested in attending. Or, you can also register by phone by calling 855-314-8352 and pressing the number “2” at the prompt.

 

Chalk Talk (02/25/26)

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App to highlight theology professor

ST. LEO – Thomas Humphries, professor of philosophy, theology and religion at Saint Leo University, will be featured Feb. 23 on the Ascension App as part of the Lenten season.

His reflection will premiere on the first Monday of Lent and be available worldwide through the Catholic Bible and Catechism mobile app’s daily Scripture readings.

“On the first Monday of Lent we read from Leviticus in Mass: ‘Be holy, as I the LORD your God am holy!’ This kind of holiness means nothing less than entering the mystery of God Himself,” Humphries said. “It is a blessing that we get to invite our students and those who use the Ascension App to a deeper relationship with Christ through Scripture and the Sacraments this Lent.”

Humphries teaches theology and emergency management at Saint Leo and is active in Campus Ministry. He is the author of two theology books.

 

Learning Gate to host EcoFest

LUTZ – Learning Gate Community School will host its annual EcoFest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 25 at the Hanna Campus, 16215 Hanna Road.

The free, family-friendly event celebrates Earth Day with live music, local artisans, workshops and food trucks. The Green Ribbon School uses EcoFest to promote sustainability and environmental stewardship throughout the community.

Organizers are accepting applications from local vendors, artisans and nonprofits, particularly those aligned with a “green” mission.

Admission is free. Visit learninggate.org/ecofest for vendor applications and event details.

 

Kids Tag Art Store opens for 2025-26

TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Kids Tag Art online store is now open, featuring more than 2,700 original designs created by fifth-grade students from over 55 schools for the 2025-26 school year.

Proceeds directly benefit participating schools’ art programs, funding classroom supplies and resources. Since launching, the program has raised more than $149,000 for school art education.

“These talented fifth-grade artists have worked hard to create unique designs, and now it’s our turn to show them support,” said Hillsborough County Tax Collector Nancy Millan, who is partnering with Hillsborough County Public Schools on the fundraiser. “Every mug, keychain, or license plate you purchase isn’t just a beautiful piece of student art. It’s an investment in arts education.”

Shoppers can filter by school and choose from products including vanity license plates, mugs and keychains.

Browse designs at HillsFaxFL.gov/shop.

 

Quick Hits

  • Scott Brewer, of Lutz, made the provost’s list for fall at Ohio University College of Health Sciences and Professions in Athens, Ohio. Students must have at least a 3.5 grade point average to qualify. 
  • Sarah Caudill, of Lutz, made the president’s list for fall at Ohio University College of Health Sciences and Professions in Athens, Ohio. Students must earn a 4.0 grade point average to qualify. 
  • Blake Graham, of Odessa, made the dean’s list high honors for fall at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in Woods, Indiana.
  • Zayne Jack, of Lutz, graduated from Milwaukee School of Engineering in the fall. Jack received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. 
  • Trevor Mayberry, of Odessa, made the dean’s list for fall at Mississippi State University. Students must have a grade point average between 3.5 and 3.79 to qualify. 
  • Naila Schoefberger, of Lutz, was among nearly 1,400 students graduating from Mississippi State University in fall 2025. Schoefberger received the Bachelor of Science from MSU’s College of Arts and Sciences.

 

Motocross stars to descend on Dade City

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DADE CITY – Thrill-seekers will be returning to Dade City next month for Red Bull Day in the Dirt Down South.

Hundreds of motocross competitors across the U.S. will ride into Florida’s Sports Coast following Daytona Bike Week. Riders of all backgrounds and skill levels, from amateur to pro, are invited to register and ride. 

Organizers tout the weekend of March 6 to 8 as a non-stop party. Here’s what to expect:

  • Three full days of racing across multiple classes and formats, from GP-style racing to team competition. This year’s lineup includes a Pit Bike Race, a Head-to-Head Drag Race and the return of the Coup de Grace Survival Race, where victory is crossing the finish line. Riders who complete five events will be awarded the Ironman, with the overall event winner earning the honor of destroying the majestic sand sculpture.
  • They’ll ride at Dade City MX. This year’s track features first-ever elements like an enduro line, presented by Florida Trail Riders, and a burnout pad incorporated into the race course.
  • Amateur riders get to shred alongside some of the biggest names in the sport, including Red Bull athletes Carson Brown, Tyler Bereman, Kelana Humphrey and Tarah Gieger. Athletes will also be available for meet and greets.
  • A live recording of “Bonifay Banter” podcast, as Red Bull athletes Tyler Bereman and Parks Bonifay reunite for a panel revisiting Island Hopper, the legendary freeriding stunt that took place on Florida’s Sports Coast.
  • Weekend festivities include a barn party on Friday evening and a Supercross watch party on Saturday night.
  • Stark Future, a leader in electric motorcycles, will host bike demos throughout the weekend.

On the web: dayinthedirtdownsouth.com

Bresin: Nuts offer many health benefits

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If you look at the food label (and hopefully you do), you’ll see that nuts are high in calories. 

For example, there are 170 calories in a one-ounce serving of mixed nuts, or 180 calories in a quarter cup of walnuts, while three small chocolate chip cookies come in at 160 calories. 

We tend to think that if something is high in calories, we should refrain from eating it if we are trying to lose weight. 

And while that is true, it’s also important to factor in the quality of calories, not just the quantity. 

Although nuts are high in calories (and excess calories can lead to weight gain), they have a lot of nutritional value and health benefits, making them a nutrient-dense food. Some of their health benefits include:

  • Fiber.
  • Monounsaturated fat, which lowers LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol levels, while maintaining the HDL, or “good” cholesterol.
  • Protein.
  • Vitamins E and B6, folic acid, magnesium, zinc, potassium and more.
  • Phytochemicals that play a role in preventing heart disease.

Just a handful (about one ounce) five times a week is all it takes to pack a nutritional punch.

Did you know the peanut is not a nut? While we group peanuts in the nut category in the food and culinary world, botanically speaking, because they grow underground, they are a legume, which are edible seeds enclosed in pods. 

Therefore, they are in the same family as peas, beans and lentils, according to the International Food Information Council. 

Whereas nuts like cashews, almonds and walnuts grow on trees. 

This is why peanuts and peanut butter are cheaper than other nuts and nut butters. They cost less to cultivate and harvest.

Tree nuts take several years to harvest versus planting peanuts in the ground each year. 

Because peanuts and tree nuts have different proteins, people with an allergy to one aren’t necessarily allergic to the other. 

That’s why you’ll see on a food label’s allergy warning “contains peanuts and tree nuts,” since they are technically two different food types.

It’s best to avoid salted or honey roasted nuts, but if you don’t want them plain, go with lightly salted; the sodium difference is usually around 50% less per serving. 

We should not be consuming more than 2,300 mg of sodium per day, and even less, at 1,500 mg per day, for those with hypertension. 

Another thing to note: plant-based milks, such as almond milk, don’t have the same nutrient levels as the actual whole nut. 

And for those prone to certain types of kidney stones, nuts and peanuts should be limited, so make sure to talk with your doctor or dietitian about your diet.

In addition to snacking on a handful of nuts, incorporate them in your meals too, such as adding cashews to a salad, adding walnuts to your bowl of oatmeal, topping peanuts onto stir fries or throwing in some nuts into the blender when making a smoothie. 

There are lots of ways to enjoy them.

 

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County, An Equal Opportunity Institution.

 

Fifth-graders run a city as BizTown celebrates 20 years

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Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Germann and staff mentored students as part of a partnership with Junior Achievement. Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement

 

Students learn what it’s like to run a city during Junior Achievement’s Muma BizTown. Photo courtesy of Junior Achievement

TAMPA – Nearly 120 fifth-graders ran an entire city recently within The Florida Aquarium.

Aquarium staff joined the students inside their storefront, stepping into their world of budgets, businesses and boardroom decisions. One student even served as CEO for the Day, shadowing Florida Aquarium President and CEO Roger Germann and gaining a firsthand look at what it takes to lead a major Tampa Bay organization.

The visit also marked a milestone for Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay: the 20th anniversary of BizTown (now officially Muma BizTown) and Partner Tribute Day, recognizing the aquarium for helping bring learning opportunities to life for students across the region.

After weeks of classroom preparation, students interviewed for jobs, got hired and ran their businesses like real professionals, marketing products, producing goods and making decisions that showed how leadership and financial choices shape a thriving community.

“By investing time, talent and leadership, students are connecting classroom learning to real-world careers,” said Richard George, president of Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay. “By showing up and engaging directly with kids, The Florida Aquarium is shaping the next generation of confident, capable leaders for the future of our community.”

Germann and 16 team members from the Aquarium worked alongside students in the aquarium’s BizTown storefront as part of the organization’s Day of Action.

“At The Florida Aquarium, we believe it’s our responsibility to make the world a better place. Whether we’re saving marine life or inspiring the next generation of leaders, investing in our youth through partnerships like Junior Achievement’s Muma BizTown makes a lasting difference,” Germann said. “Seeing these students confidently dive into professional roles, tackle real-world challenges and make meaningful decisions is energizing and a powerful reminder that anything is possible.”

The 20th anniversary also marks the official renaming to Muma BizTown, in honor of philanthropists Pam and Les Muma. Their decades of support, including a $5 million planned gift and $2 million to $3 million in operational funding, have impacted more than 300,000 students across Tampa Bay.

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Letter: How am I making a difference?

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While Black History Month is a time to honor the men and women who bravely and boldly paved the way for the African Americans who came after them, it’s also an opportunity to look to the future and ask yourself: How am I making a difference?  

Personally, I see the answer in my kids’ generosity and kindness towards others, but I’m one of the lucky ones who can see it in my work as well.

As a 15-year Duke Energy employee involved with the African American Association of Blacks in Energy, I have the privilege of sharing the energy industry with young people from all across Florida.

Every summer, my colleagues and I host Youth Energy Academies, hands-on programs designed to expose often underserved students to the inner workings of electric utilities while encouraging them to consider pursuing careers in STEM.

They participate in fun activities and demonstrations; engage in conversations with lineworkers, control room engineers and more; and tour towering facilities housing complex equipment that they’ve likely never seen or even heard of before.

The Youth Energy Academy concept was conceived by three Duke Energy employees in 2011 and has since grown from one location with a handful of students to seven sites (Jacksonville, Gainesville, Ocala, Orlando, St. Petersburg, Lake Wales and South Florida) with roughly 60 attendees each.

With several of these students coming back year after year and some even going on to succeed in the industry, including at Duke Energy, we know it’s helping create a better, brighter tomorrow for underrepresented groups in our communities.

Derick Farfan serves as large accounts manager for Duke Energy Florida.

 

SMARTstart to host GROW Pasco for entrepreneurs 

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Johnny Crowder, CEO of Cope Notes, gives the keynote during last year’s GROW Pasco. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

 

Deb Mazzaferro talks about elevating one’s sales game during a breakout session during last year’s GROW Pasco. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

LUTZ – The Pasco Economic Development Council is hosting the sixth annual GROW Pasco event through its SMARTstart program on March 19 at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center in San Antonio. 

This conference-style event, presented by Suncoast Credit Union, brings together the Pasco County business community to network and learn ways to help their businesses grow and thrive. 

The event offers 15 breakout sessions led by more than 30 business professionals. Speakers will cover topics such as artificial intelligence, funding options, marketing and community resources for businesses. 

“GROW Pasco is a must-attend event for all entrepreneurs,” said Beth Galic, of the Bay Area Manufacturers Association and a 2025 GROW Pasco attendee. “The wealth of information gained from the event is invaluable to business owners.”

The Pasco EDC SMARTstart entrepreneurship program, supported by Penny for Pasco, offers resources to help growing businesses achieve long-term success. The program delivers support in key areas, including access to funding, education, guidance, collaboration and workspace. 

SMARTstart serves 54 incubator members, representing a diverse range of industries, from food-based businesses operating out of the East Pasco Incubator Kitchen in Dade City to high-tech companies headquartered at SMARTstart at the Grove in Wesley Chapel. Members also have access to three Entrepreneur Centers throughout Pasco County.

“Through programs like SMARTstart and events like GROW Pasco, we’re investing directly in the people that are innovators and who help drive our economy,” said Jack Mariano, chair of the Pasco County Board of Commissioners. “Every new idea and business launched contributes to a stronger, more resilient Pasco County.” 

Taylor Doe, a former TEDx speaker and entrepreneur, is invested in community development, youth mentorship and fostering economic mobility for others. His presentation will explore the overlooked moments behind entrepreneurial success, showing how founders start, grow and scale while leveraging relationships, resources and experiences to create opportunity and build a stronger ecosystem. 

“What makes GROW Pasco truly special is the incredible cross-section of entrepreneurial journeys in one place, from those just starting out, to successful operators returning year after year, and everyone in between,” said Dan Mitchell, assistant vice president of entrepreneurship. “They inspire, lift each other up and make powerful connections, much like the ‘And Then Moments’ Taylor Doe will explore in his keynote, where one introduction or opportunity can change everything.” 

 

Want to go?

Visit pascoedc.com/events/details/grow-pasco to learn more about the GROW Pasco sessions and to register. The cost is $65 and includes breakfast, a keynote lunch presentation and access to various breakout sessions. Sponsorships are available and offer access to exhibit at the event.