There’s Christmas songs on the radio — and, thousands of lights dancing to the tunes. That’s just part of the stunning, festive display at The […]
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This Week
Pasco’s ‘Ready Sites’ program is attracting companies
Pasco County continues to attract manufacturers seeking a place to set up shop, and is heading into a new fiscal year that will show an increased focus on supporting workforce development efforts. Those were some key take-aways in a report delivered by Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council (EDC), to […]
TV crime drama may emerge from local novelist’s book
Leonard Territo — a retired criminology professor and textbook author — really never expected to write a novel, or contemplated the idea of his book possibly being turned into a television crime series. But now, an agent working for the former Saint Leo University and University of South Florida (USF) professor, is pitching the series […]
“Kidpreneurs” taking the marketplace by storm
These kids mean business. They are “Kidpreneurs” with self-owned startups selling homemade or resold products at marketplaces hosted by Tampa Children’s Business Fair (TCBF). The TCBF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded with the sole purpose of empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. They organize marketplaces featuring businesses created and launched by local children. The […]
At peace in their new homes
Rosco jumped up, balancing himself on his owner’s leg. It was his new owner, Sonia Butler, who adopted the Chihuahua-Jack Russell mix. “He’s super playful and very close to me,” Butler said. “Oh, he follows her everywhere,” added her husband, Brian. Not too long ago, Rosco’s former owner passed away while in hospice care. The […]
Wesley Chapel woman hailed as ‘inspiration’ for others
There’s a point in Pasco County Commission meetings when the county board passes resolutions to support a cause, or recognize an individual’s contributions. Commissioner Mike Moore, who left the board on Nov. 21, used his final resolution to draw attention to Brianna Somoano, an author and inspirational speaker, who also is a family friend. The […]
Simple steps can help prevent holiday fires
Here are some pointers from the National Fire Protection Association, to help you to keep the season merry and bright — and avoid the dangers of a holiday fire. When decorating Choose decorations that are flame-resistant or flame-retardant. Keep lit candles away from decorations and other items that can catch fire. Pay attention to the […]
Recycle your tree for the environment
Pasco County once again will offer the Trees to Trails program for anyone interested in recycling their live Christmas tree after the holiday, according to Sarah Andeara, public information officer Pasco County, in an email to The Laker/Lutz News. The trees are chipped for use in Pasco County parks, to mulch trails and plant beds. […]
Pasco bids adieu to tough litigator, after 20 years
She may not have been a household name around Pasco County, but Katherine “Kristi” Sims was a familiar face representing Pasco County at court hearings. During her 20 years with the Pasco County Attorney’s Office, the senior assistant county attorney litigated nearly 6,000 ordinance violations. But that’s just one aspect of the work she did, […]
Pasco leaders cite safety concerns over blocked sidewalks
The Pasco County Commission has been weighing in on design standards for subdivisions for several months, and now they’re pushing for changes aimed at keeping sidewalks clear. It’s a public safety issue, according to Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey, who shared photos of cars parked in driveways — blocking the sidewalks in front of homes. “The […]
This Week (cont)
This woman knew her numbers
Rosemary Syrakos recently stepped away from a 32-year career in the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office. And, during the course of her career, she handled all sorts of paperwork, in various capacities. She joined the staff on Feb. 2, 1990, as a data entry operator in the support services department, before moving through the […]
Pasco wants to know community’s thoughts
Pasco County has launched its 2022 Pasco Community Survey and is asking the community to share information and feedback to help create a better future, according to a county news release. The survey will be available through Dec. 16. The county uses an annual survey as a “vital listening tool,” the release says. The survey […]
Hillsborough seeking input on internet connectivity
Hillsborough County is conducting an assessment to determine where internet connectivity disparities exist within the county, and to develop a plan to provide increased, equitable and effective broadband internet service coverage countywide, according to a news release. Part of the effort includes a consumer survey and speed test, which will be available until Dec. 16. […]
A smokin’ roadside attraction
There’s some good food in this neighborhood. Those driving by the southwest corner of Collier Parkway and Parkway Boulevard, in Land O’ Lakes, will see smoke rising into the sky. The smoke is accompanied by an enticing aroma — produced by Brown’s Bar-B-Que Pit’s smoker, cooking up barbecue on the weekends. The Brown Family has […]
Local Sports
Sending the perfect assist, on and off the field
Lexi Mangione knows she has a nice kit — and plenty of clothes. However, some, especially foster children, aren’t always afforded that. “Foster kids, they literally have nothing,” the Wesley Chapel High senior midfielder said. “Or the things they do have, they don’t even have a bag to put those things in — sometimes it’s […]
2022 Sunshine Athletic Conference Fall Awards
The Sunshine Athletic Conference, which is made up of the 14 public high school athletic programs in Pasco County, announced its 2022 Fall All-Conference Teams and Players, voted on by the sports’ respective coaches. The awards are split into East and West divisions of the county. Here are the East Division first teams and the […]
Sports – Check This Out
Butterbowl Bike Ride
The Land O’ Lakes neighborhoods of Wilderness Lake Preserve and Connerton will host the inaugural Butterbowl Bike Ride 2023 event on Jan. 21 at 10 a.m. The competitive or leisure event will be a 20-mile bike ride through the two communities, with check-in beginning at 8:45 a.m., at the Wilderness Lake Preserve Lodge, 21320 Wilderness […]
Youth kickball league
Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, will host a coed youth kickball league, for players ages 8 to 15, beginning Jan. 16. Games will be played Mondays at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Cost is $95 per player for the seven-week season, with a T-shirt provided. Deadline to register is Dec. 23. To […]
Volleyball clinics
RADD Sports is now hosting Friday night volleyball clinics at the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus, 3021 Sports Coast Way, Wesley Chapel. Players can meet coaches and sharpen their skills in attacking, blocking, defense and setting. Cost is $25 per athlete per class. To learn more or sign up, visit Wiregrass-sports.com/volleyball.
Reasons To Smile
Just a little Christmas spirit
The Laker/Lutz News’ editorial assistant Mary Rathman loves Christmastime, so much so, that she has a year-round room in her home dedicated to the holiday. When she needs a little bit of peace and calm, or to chat with family on the internet, this is her place to be.
