• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to secondary sidebar
  • About Us
  • Videos
  • Online E-Editions
  • Social Media
    • Facebook
    • Twitter
    • Instagram
  • Advertising
  • Local Jobs
  • Puzzles & Games
  • Circulation Request

The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Lutz since 1964 and Pasco since 1981.
Proud to be independently owned.

  • Home
  • News
    • Land O’ Lakes
    • Lutz
    • Wesley Chapel/New Tampa
    • Zephyrhills/East Pasco
    • Business Digest
    • Senior Parks
    • Nature Notes
    • Featured Stories
    • Photos of the Week
  • Sports
    • Land O’ Lakes
    • Lutz
    • Wesley Chapel/New Tampa
    • Zephyrhills and East Pasco
    • Check This Out
  • Education
  • Pets/Wildlife
  • Health
    • Health Events
    • Health News
  • What’s Happening
  • Closer Look
  • Homes
  • Obits

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library

Show your local library some love

February 2, 2021 By Mary Rathman

Libraries provide so much more than a place to borrow a book, music and movies — they also provide a place to do research, a quiet space to study, exhibit art displays for local artists, provide hands-on activities and offer preservation services. These institutions are celebrated in February, designated as National Library Lover’s Month.

Libraries offer a variety of services. Check out a book, music or a movie, or take part in arts and crafts or virtual story times. Staff members of The Laker/Lutz News delve into some books and newspapers — just a small sampling of the types of materials that can be found at the local library. From left: Kelli Carmack, Diane Kortus, Mary Rathman and Katie Fernandez. (Kelli Carmack)

There are 9,225 public libraries across the United States, though may states have seen library closings, according to the American Library Association.

A struggling economy has cost libraries some funding, as some municipalities cannot afford to keep libraries open, while other establishments are taking steps to make libraries more popular in the digital age.

Many libraries have increased their offerings beyond traditional books to include free music and e-Book downloads, and free wireless internet connectivity. Services also can include hosting club meetings, increasing children’s programs, and offering DIY curbside-pickup crafts and virtual story times.

Here are several ways patrons can contribute to their local libraries:

  • Nominate your library as your community, school or corporate organization’s project for the year.
  • Buy your library a subscription to a popular magazine.
  • Honor a friend or relative’s birthday with a book for the library.
  • Donate a book (or a whole shelf of books) to the Friends of the Library book sale.
  • Remember your library in your estate planning.
  • Donate to your library’s foundation/friends group.
  • Give to the library through a company matching program for charitable giving.
  • Give the gift of a library card to a friend or loved one.
  • Volunteer to read stories to children or help with library visits, or to work at the library bookstore or book sale.
  • Attend local government meetings to urge city and county legislators to invest in libraries as a vital community resource and a necessary public service.

Pasco County libraries in The Laker coverage area include:

  • Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City. Call 352-567-3576.
  • Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway. Call 813-929-1214
  • New River Branch Library, 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel (currently closed for renovations). Call 813-788-6375.
  • Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eight St. Call 813-780-0064.

In Hillsborough County, libraries in the newspaper’s coverage area are:

  • Austin Davis Public Library, 17808 Wayne Road, Odessa.
  • Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave.
  • Lutz Branch Library, 101 Lutz-Lake Fern Road (temporarily closed)
  • New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd.

Contact Hillsborough libraries by calling 813-273-3652.

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: American Library Association, Austin Davis Public Library, Hugh Embry Library, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Land O' Lakes Branch Library, Lutz Branch Library, National Library Lover's Month, New River Branch Library, New Tampa Regional Library, Zephyrhills Public Library

Hillsborough libraries to restore some services

November 17, 2020 By Mary Rathman

Some Hillsborough County public libraries were expected to begin reopening this week, as part of a phased reopening intended to carefully, and methodically restore services to residents, according to a county news release.

The county had planned to start restoring services on Nov. 12, but delayed that until Nov. 16, after consultation with of its health officials, emergency managers and library staff, Hillsborough County officials — due to Tropical Storm Eta.

Hillsborough County libraries have been closed to the public since late March because of concerns about potential spread of COVID-19.

Even though the buildings were closed, staff continued to offer a variety of services from the buildings. Some libraries also were used as early voting sites, but public access was not allowed to the collections and computers.

Selected spaces within nine libraries will reopen at 25% capacity, adhering to safety protocols.

The buildings again will be accessible to the public Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

These are the libraries slated to reopen:

  • Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, Valrico
  • C. Blythe Andrews Jr. Public Library, Tampa
  • Jan Kaminis Platt Regional Library, Tampa
  • Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa
  • Maureen B. Gauzza Public Library, Tampa
  • North Tampa Branch Library, Tampa
  • New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., New Tampa
  • SouthShore Regional Library, Ruskin
  • Town ‘N Country Regional Public Library, 7606 Paula Drive, Tampa

Steps that will be taken to ensure the safety of visitors include:

  • Limiting visits to one hour
  • Requiring children under the age of 17 to be accompanied by a parent
  • Requiring face coverings and social distancing; conducting temperature checks at the door
  • Prohibiting use of study rooms, meeting rooms, makerspace and recording studios
  • Continuing virtual library programs, including story times.

For information, visit HCPLC.org.

Published November 18, 2020

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Bloomingdale Regional Public Library, C. Blythe Andrews Jr. Public Library, Hillsborough County Public Libraries, Jan Kaminis Public Library, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Maureen B. Gauzza Public Library, New Tampa Regional Library, North Tampa Branch Library, SouthShore Regional Library, Town N' Country Regional Public Library

Places you can turn to for help in Pasco, Hillsborough counties

April 21, 2020 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pick up paper unemployment forms
Both Hillsborough and Pasco counties are handing out paper unemployment forms at specific libraries.

Hillsborough County
The location near The Laker/Lutz News coverage area is at Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave. The library’s drive-thru will be open seven days a week, from 9:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Once completed, residents also can drop off the forms at either drive-through, and library staff will mail the documents for them.

Pasco County
Printed unemployment forms will be available just outside the entrance to these libraries, in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

  • Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, in Land O’ Lakes
  • Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City

If you’re unable to visit a library in person and would like to request a blank application form by mail, please contact the library at "> or through the “Ask A Librarian” feature at PascoLibraries.org.

Once completed, residents can mail the form to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.

For more information about Pasco County Libraries, including the library catalog, E-content,  programs, events and links to all Pasco County Library branches, visit PascoLibraries.org.

Hillsborough County emergency help
As the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) fallout continues, Hillsborough County officials are reminding residents about assistance available to help people meet their food needs.

Here is a look at some programs:

  • Hillsborough residents age 60 and older can apply for food assistance through Hillsborough County Aging services. There is no income requirement to participate in the federally funded program. To find out more, call (813) 2727-5250.
  • Feeding Tampa Bay is offering drive-thru distribution of free, pre-packaged groceries to Hillsborough County residents in need. Distribution is on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Hillsborough Community College’s Dale Mabry campus, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., in Tampa. Check Feeding Tampa Bay’s website before the events, to be sure there have been no changes. To find out about other food assistance programs and information, visit FeedingTampaBay.org, or call (813) 254-1190.
  • Tampa YMCA Veggie Van is distributing free pre-packaged bags of produce in several neighborhoods in Hillsborough County. No ID, paperwork or pre-screening is required to receive the food. Learn more, visit Tampa Veggie Van on Facebook.
  • SNAP recipients across the state starting April 21 will be able to use EBT cards to make eligible food purchases from Walmart and Amazon online.

Pasco Planning and development open online
Pasco County’s planning and development department is only accepting electronic submittals via its online portals. It is not accepting hard copy application packages, hard copy re-submittals or checks.

All project information must be uploaded in Accela and all payments must be made online via e-check ($1.99 fee) or credit card (2.65% fee) through the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) portal.

To communicate with the department, reach out to a specific staff member, via email or telephone. You can email general questions to , or call (727) 847-8142.

Tips for reducing stress
Here are some suggestions from the National Alliance on Mental Illness to help reduce potential stress and anxiety, as the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic disrupts our daily lives.

Manage how you consume information
Equip yourself with information from credible, reputable sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). See “Basic information” section for more links.

Be selective about how you consume news. It’s generally a good idea to stay engaged and informed. Having some limits on your news consumption can help:

  • Watching or listening to the same news constantly can increase stress. Reading can be an easier medium to control how much and what kind of information you’re absorbing.
  • Set limits on when and for how long you consume news and information, including through social media. It may help you to choose a couple of 15-minute blocks each day when you will check news/social media and limit your news consumption to that time.
  • False information spreads very easily on social media and can have serious consequences for individual and public health. Always verify sources and make sure they are reputable, especially before sharing anything.

Follow healthy daily routines as much as possible
Your daily habits and routines can help you feel more in control of your own well-being.

Even simple actions can make a difference:

  • Make your bed
  • Get dressed
  • Connect with loved ones
  • Move your body
  • Make time for breaks
  • If possible, take regular short breaks during work or between shifts. During these breaks, go outside and engage in physical activity if you can.
  • Practice good hygiene, especially by cleaning your hands
  • Get enough regular sleep, it is critical for your immune system
  • Eat nutritious food as much as possible, especially fruits and vegetables

Published April 22, 2020

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Accela Citizens Access, CDC, Centers for Disease Control, Collier Parkway, coronavirus disease-2019, COVID-19, Dade City, Feeding Tampa Bay, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Fourth Street, Hillsborough Community College, Hillsborough County Aging, Hugh Embry Library, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Land O' Lakes Library, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Pasco County Libraries, SNAP, Tampa YMCA Veggie Van, Unemployment forms, West Bearss Avenue, West Tampa Bay Boulevard, WHO, World Health Organization

Baldomero Lopez was more than a local hero

June 6, 2018 By B.C. Manion

When motorists drive past the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans Nursing Home in Land O’ Lakes, chances are they won’t know much about the history of the man for whom the facility is named.

That’s where Bill Dotterer comes in.

This iconic image was taken of 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez leading troops in an invasion at Inchon during the Korean War. Lopez died minutes after the photo was taken.
(Bill Dotterer)

He’s a volunteer with the Tampa Bay History Center and he shared the story of 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez’s life and his heroic actions during a talk earlier this year at the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library. The history center and library jointly presented the free program.

Lopez may not be widely known in many circles, but he is in the U.S. Marine Corps, Dotterer said.

“Lopez is a very important person in Tampa Bay’s history,” the speaker added, noting Lopez was the first person who grew up in Tampa to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Dotterer shared details of Lopez’s early years.

Lopez grew up during a time when Ybor City and West Tampa were vibrant places, with a thriving cigar industry, with people living there who had come from Spain, Cuba, Italy and Sicily, Dotterer said. There were social clubs, baseball teams and dominoes, he noted, and Lopez grew up in that milieu.

“In the neighborhood where he lived, he was well known as a baseball player. He had a paper route. He was just an All-American kid,” Dotterer said.

Lopez also was interested in the military.

He attended Hillsborough High School, where he was in charge of the ROTC program. He marched in the Gasparilla Parade one year, leading all of the junior ROTC units, Dotterer said.

Baldomero Lopez
Company A, 1st Battalion
5th Marines, 1st Marine Division
Born: Aug, 23, 1925
Died: Sept. 15, 1950

The speaker noted that much of his talk was based on information he gleaned from a conversation he had with E.J. Salcines, a former judge and noted Tampa historian.

Lopez was third in his class when he graduated from Hillsborough High in 1943. He decided to enlist in the Navy, Dotterer said.

Initially, Lopez was sent to Quantico, Virginia, but he was pulled from that program and sent to Annapolis for an officer training program, Dotterer added. Next, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps, as a second lieutenant.

By then, it was 1947 and the war had ended.

Lopez was sent to China, to lead a mortar platoon, and after that, he returned to Camp Pendleton, where he received orders to become an instructor at the Basic School in Quantico, Dotterer said.

Lopez was still at Pendleton when the Korean War broke out and his unit was assigned to go overseas, Dotterer said. Lopez wanted to go with them.

Dotterer then shared this account, which he said came from Salcines.

Lopez was a on a train, heading from California to Virginia, Dotterer said.

“Every place that the train stopped, he got off and called and said, ‘Please change my orders. I want to go with my unit.’

“When he finally gets to Quantico, they say, ‘OK, you can rejoin your unit.’,” Dotterer said.

Lopez heads back to California, but at that point, his unit is already gone. Somehow, he catches up with them, across the Pacific, Dotterer continued.

The Korean War began when the North Koreans attacked south of this 38th parallel, which is what divides North Korea and South Korea, Dotterer said.

Gen. Douglas MacArthur was the head commander of allied forces in Korea, and he decided to take back Seoul, Dotterer said.

The invasion is made at Inchon Harbor, near Seoul.

It wasn’t an ideal place to invade because it had the third-highest tides in the world, going from zero to 40 feet in a day. It also had 40-foot seawalls around it, which the Marines had to build ladders to scale, Dotterer said.

“The anchorage, itself, where all of the ships would end up for the invasion, was pretty small. It was pretty tight to get in there,” he added.

At the same time, however, the limiting factors at Inchon also may have made it a good place to invade because the enemy would never expect it, he said.

Lopez demonstrated courage
Lopez, who was 25, was on one of the landing ships.

Before the invasion, he wrote his parents a final letter, not knowing it would be his final letter, Dotterer said.

“Basically, he said, ‘Hey, I chose to do this, so if anything happens, I decided I wanted to be a Marine officer, so here I am. Secondly, please send me some good cigars.’

“On Sept. 15, the invasion begins. He is with Company A, First Battalion, Fifth Marines, and they’re going into Red Beach,” Dotterer said.

This historic marker in downtown Tampa commemorates the heroic actions that 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez took during the Korean War.
(B.C. Manion)

There were two hills, which meant the enemy was at the top of the hill shooting down.

An iconic photograph, taken during the invasion, shows Lopez leading his troops up a wooden ladder over the seawall, Dotterer said.

“Sad to say, this is minutes before he is killed. He’s leading his troops over the seawall. There’s a machine-gun, automatic type position here, that they are trying to take out.

“He had actually pulled a pin on a grenade to throw it into the pill box,” Dotterer said.

Instead, “he gets hit with automatic weapon fire. One in the shoulder. One in the abdomen or chest. He’s shot down. That grenade has the pin out.”

Within seconds, Lopez decided to save his troops. He scooped the grenade under his body.

“He took the full brunt of the grenade in the explosion. His troops were essentially saved. They went on to take that pillbox,” Dotterer said.

Since then, Lopez has been honored in various ways.

There’s a historic marker commemorating Lopez’s heroics in downtown Tampa and there’s a memorial for him at Hillsborough High School. There’s a public elementary school named after him in Seffner and there’s a memorial to Lopez at Veterans Memorial Park.

In 2012, the Tampa Bay History Center received a Korean War Veterans Medal on behalf of Lopez, presented by Jong-Hoon Kim, a member of the 19th National Assembly and Chair of the International Relations Committee, Saenuri Party. Kim was accompanied by Choi Young-Jin, the Korean Ambassador to the United Nations and other Korean Dignitaries.

Additionally, there’s Lopez Hall at the Basic School aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico, a dining facility that was dedicated in 2013, and there’s a navy ship named in his honor.

And, the Marine Corps Association and Foundation, (MCA&F), bestows The Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez Honor Graduate Award to the Marine of each graduating company from the Basic School who demonstrates the highest potential for future leadership and responsibility in the Marine Corps.

In essence, Dotterer said, “he was an amazing hero.”

Published June 6, 2018

Filed Under: Land O' Lakes News, Local News Tagged With: 19th National Assembly, All-American, Annapolis, Baldomero Lopez State Veterans Nursing Home, Basic School, Bill Dotterer, California, Camp Pendleton, Chair of the International Relations Committee, China, Company A, Congressional Medal of Honor, Cuba, E.J. Salcines, Fifth Marines, First Battalion, Gasparilla Parade, Gen. Douglas MacArthur, Hillsborough High School, Inchon Harbor, Italy, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Jong-Hoon Kim, Korean Ambassador, Korean Dignitaries, Korean War, Korean War Veterans Medal, Lopez Hall at the Basic School, Lt. Baldomero Lopez, Marine Corps Association Foundation, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Navy, Pacific, Quantico, Red Beach, ROTC, Saenuri Party, Seffner, Seoul, Sicily, Spain, Tampa, Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay History Center, The Lieutenant Baldomero Lopez Honor Graduate Award, U.S. Marine Corps, United Nations, Veterans Memorial Park, Virginia, West Tampa, Ybor City

MacDill AFB’s changing missions through 75 years

November 8, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

MacDill Air Force Base has been around for more than 75 years — with roles that have changed to correspond with evolving military needs.

Since it was established in 1941, MacDill Air Force has had a significant impact on Tampa Bay’s economy. It now employs 15,000 military personnel and 3,700 civilians, with an estimated annual economic impact of approximately $2.9 billion on the community. (Courtesy of Tampa Bay History Center)

The base now houses the 6th Air Mobility Wing, with operations primarily in aerial refueling mission and personnel transport.

Its purpose was quite different during World War II, however.

The Tampa Bay History Center, in partnership with the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, recently had a presentation documenting the history of MacDill Air Force Base.

The event was led by Clete Belsom, a retired lieutenant colonel in the United States Air Force and a docent at the history center.

Belsom, who volunteers once a week at MacDill, detailed how the air force base has evolved over decades. He also described the important role the base has played in the area’s history and economy, during an hour-long interactive discussion.

This is a B-17 in flight. Between 1942 and 1945, the 91st Bombardment Group — which operated the B-17 Flying Fortress — flew 9,571 combat missions throughout Europe.

As war clouds gathered in the late 1930s, the United States War Department ordered the development of six new strategic bases nationwide.

Interestingly enough, Tampa was chosen over Arcadia for the country’s southeast base location.

“The War Department said, ‘Wait a minute, Arcadia’s so isolated. It doesn’t make sense.’ And, it really didn’t make sense,” Belsom said.

MacDill was originally established as Southeast Air Base in 1939.

It was later activated on April 16, 1941, dedicated after Col. Leslie MacDill, a pilot in the Army Air Corps who died in a plane crash in Washington D.C.

“He was an up-and-coming star and very, very well thought of; he would’ve done quite well,” Belsom said.

In its earliest years, MacDill Air Force Base’s mission was transitional training for the B-17 Flying Fortress. Those operations were led by Maj. Clarence Tinker, an Osage Indian who became the highest-ranking Native American in the military during World War II.

In its earliest years, MacDill’s mission was transitional training in the B-17 Flying Fortress.

Maj. Clarence Tinker, an Osage Indian — who went on to become the highest-ranking Native American in the military during World War II — led MacDill’s operations in the beginning.

“The B-17…carried all of the heavy bombing load that the U.S. did in Europe during World War II. They specialized in daytime precision bombing,” Belsom explained.

Between 1942 and 1945, the 91st Bombardment Group — which operated the B-17 Flying Fortress — flew 9,571 combat missions throughout Europe.

Of those missions, 197 airplanes were lost, 1,010 airmen were presumed killed or missing, and 960 crewmembers were taken as German prisoners of war.

During the Second World War, MacDill AFB had several support units, including the Women’s Army Corps that trained in photo labs and also served administrative roles.

MacDill also hosted a number of bomber aircraft during the war, including the B-17, B-26 Marauder and the B-29 Superfortress.

Servicemen were trained to be pilots, gunners, engineers, mechanics, radio operators, navigators and other roles.

MacDill also was home to other support units, including the Women’s Army Corps and an all-black aviation engineer unit.

It’s estimated that 100,000 crewmembers were trained at MacDill during World War II, with 15,000 stationed at the base at any given time.

At its apex, there also were 488 German POWs.

“How would you have liked to have been a German soldier…and you get sent to Florida? There was not a better outcome, I’m sure, that a POW could’ve had than these folks,” Belsom said.

Between the 1960s and 1980s, MacDill AFB served as a Tactical Air Command, stationing fighter wings like F-4s and F-16s up through the 1980s.

Additionally, 20,000 residents of Hillsborough County were engaged in the war effort, while thousands more served in defense jobs.

Another interesting fact: During 1942 —MacDill’s first full year of operation — there were 2,000 soldiers married in Hillsborough County.

Throughout the 1950s and early 1960s MacDill trained crews for the B-29, B-50 and B-47—the first swept wing strategic bomber in inventory, Belsom explained.

The base later transitioned to Tactical Air Command, stationing fighter wings like F-4s and F-16s up through the 1980s, he said.

Belsom pointed out MacDill nearly closed in the early- to mid-1990s after the Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission identified it on a list of bases to be closed after all its tactical fighters were relocated to a base in Arizona.

But, MacDill’s shutdown was averted because of the significance of U.S. Central Command and Special Operations Command on foreign fighting activities, particularly the Middle East.

MacDill AFB had hosted a number of bomber aircraft by the end of World War II, including the B-17, B-26 Marauder and the B-29 Superfortress.

It didn’t hurt, either, that U.S. Reps. Sam Gibbons and Bill Young backed the air force base.

“They were very, very influential congressman, so I’m sure they played a part in arguing why MacDill made sense to maintain,” Belsom said.

Today, the 6th Air Mobility Wing at MacDill performs air refueling, airlift, and contingency response missions for the U.S., and allied forces around the globe. It’s also home to the KC-135 Stratotanker and the Gulfstream C-37A executive transport jet.

MacDill, too, houses U.S. Central Command and Special Operations Command.

The base’s establishment, meanwhile, has provided significant financial growth in the Tampa Bay community.

Currently employing 15,000 military personnel and 3,700 civilians, the base, which sits on nearly 6,000 acres, has an estimated annual economic impact of $2.9 billion on the region.

MacDill also has enhanced Tampa Bay’s culture, Belsom said.

“Much like the immigrants who came here to work in the cigar industry back in the late 1880s and the early 1900s, I think (MacDill) enriched the social climate of Tampa just by their presence, because they have a lot of folks who not just come here for two or three years, but then come back later and retire,” Belsom said.

Published November 8, 2017

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: 6th Air Mobility Wing, 91st Bombardment Group, Army Air Corps, Bill Young, Clarence Tinker, Clete Belsom, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Leslie MacDill, MacDill Air Force Base, Sam Gibbons, Southeast Air Base, Special Operations Command, Tactical Air Command, Tampa Bay History Center, U.S. Central Command, United States Air Force, United States War Department, Women's Army Corps, World War II

Exploring Tampa’s Jewish history

November 1, 2017 By Kevin Weiss

Tampa’s Jewish population today numbers more than 25,000 members involved in  more than a dozen synagogues, day schools, and multiple community centers and related organizations.

The of history Tampa’s Jewish community likewise runs deep — dating back more than 170 years.

More than 80 Jewish stores and buildings were in Ybor City during the first half of the 20th century. Max Argintar Menswear was the last Jewish business to survive in Ybor. It opened in 1908 and closed in 2004. (Courtesy of Tampa Bay History Center)

The Tampa Bay History Center, in partnership with the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, recently had a presentation documenting the history of Tampa’s Jewish settlers.

The Oct. 26 event was led by Dr. Carl Zeilonka, archives chair at Congregation Schaarai Zedek, who is also a docent at the history center.

He outlined the history of Tampa’s Jewish population, the economic role of Jewish-owned businesses and the role of Jewish residents in politics, during an hour-long interactive discussion that drew dozens of attendees.

Tampa’s first documented Jewish settler is Emaline Quentz Miley, who arrived in 1844 via South Carolina.

Miley and her husband, Bill, settled in the Odessa area, Zeilonka said.

Interestingly, they are believed to have planted Hillsborough County’s first citrus trees.

More Jews, mainly of Eastern European descent, began immigrating to Tampa during the American Civil War, as the Florida frontier became attractive to merchants and businessman. Many operated produce businesses, dry goods stores, oyster bars and lumber mills.

Several Jewish women have been pioneers for their gender in the political realm. Helen Gordon Davis was first Jewish woman from Tampa elected to the Florida House of Representatives. She also served in the Florida Senate.

It led to Jews entering public service in Hillsborough County, beginning in 1871 with Charles Slager and Isidore Blumenthal.

Slager was first appointed as postmaster of Tampa. He later served as Hillsborough County’s sheriff and tax collector, and as a school board member.

Blumenthal, meanwhile, was appointed to the Hillsborough County Commission.

Many Jewish businesses had closed by the mid-1870s due to the presence of a yellow fever epidemic, Zielonka said.

Other factors were to blame, too, he said, including the Franco-Prussian War preventing the export of Cedar, and the cattle industry swelling in Fort Meade instead of Tampa.

“The 1870s were a real era of problems,” Zielonka said.

It wasn’t long until Jewish immigration picked up again, however.

Discoveries of phosphate reserves, a railroad system and cigar factories brought Jewish merchants back to Tampa in the 1880s, Zielonka explained.

“It opened up the community to tourism, to trade, to every type of commerce you can imagine. It really began the explosion of Tampa as a city,” Zielonka said.

Maas Brothers department store was one of the most successful Jewish-owned businesses in Tampa. Founded in 1886 by Abe and Isaac Maas, it grew from a small 23-by-90-foot store to a chain of 39 stores across Florida.

“It provided a lot of good opportunities for Jewish businessman to come in, and they came from all over, either directly of European immigrants or children of European immigrants.”

Two of the most successful merchants were Abe and Isaac Maas.

In 1886, they founded Maas Brothers department store. It grew from a small 23-by-90-foot store to a chain of 39 stores across Florida. The Maas Brothers brand went defunct in 1991 when it was merged into the Burdines department store chain, which later rebranded as Macy’s.

By 1890, there were more than 20 Jewish families living in Tampa.

That spurred the formation of the city’s first synagogue in 1894, Congregation Shaarai Zedek, which means “Gates of Righteousness.” The first standalone building, built in 1899, was located at 1209 N. Florida Ave.

The congregation steered the formation of Tampa’s first Jewish social organization, first Jewish women’s organization and first Jewish cemetery.

“What do we do best? We organize. And, it was time to organize,” Zielonka said of Tampa’s Jewish community in the 1890s.

The early 1900s were also noteworthy for Tampa’s Jewish community.

A second synagogue, Congregation Rodeph Sholom, was founded in 1902.

Tampa’s first synagogue, Congregation Shaarai Zedek, was founded in 1894. The temple is now located on West Swann Avenue.

The city’s first Jewish day school — The Hebrew School — was formed in 1915. The school shut down in 1917 after falling behind on mortgage payments, however.

And, the city’s first Jewish newspaper, Florida Jewish Weekly, was founded in 1924. It was the first of many Jewish newspapers formed over the years in Tampa.

Zielonka pointed out that Jews were very prominent in Ybor City around this timeframe.

He said than 80 Jewish stores and buildings sprouted up in Ybor City during the first half of the 20th century. “They were very common, all over the place.”

Max Argintar Menswear was the last Jewish business to survive in Ybor. It opened in 1908 and closed in 2004.

Fast-forward to the World War II period.

Hundreds of Jewish soldiers came to Tampa throughout the war, being stationed at one of the city’s three air force bases—MacDill, Henderson Field and Drew Field.

Moreover, 39 of the 65 families at Shaarai Zedek had someone who served in the war.

The congregation frequently sponsored Passover Seders at the old Hillsborough Hotel, an effort to support Jewish troops.

“The Jewish community embraced their soldiers that were here, and those that also served in the war,” Zielonka said.

The turn of the 21st century brought more Jewish families to south Tampa, creating the need for a second Jewish Community Center. The Bryan Glazer Family JCC opened in December 2016, at the site of the historic Fort Homer W. Hesterly Armory building on North Howard Avenue.

Following the war, many Jewish servicemen settled in Tampa and established families, further strengthening the community.

The timeframe also marked the early days of Tampa Jews becoming influential political figures.

Zielonka mentioned Judge Harry N. Sandler, who was speaker of the Florida House of Representatives from 1932 to 1935. Sandler is responsible for many laws related to worker’s compensation.

The speaker noted several Jewish women, too, later became pioneers for their gender in the political realm.

Cecile Waterman Essrig was the first Jewish woman elected to political office in Hillsborough County, becoming a school board member in 1967.

Helen Gordon Davis was another, becoming the first Jewish Hillsborough County woman elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 1974. She also served in the Florida Senate.

Sandy Warshaw Freedman was the first Jewish woman elected as Mayor of Tampa, in 1986.

Meanwhile, the Jewish community has seen other developments within the last 40 years.

The TOP (Tampa, Orlando, Pinellas) Jewish Foundation was formed in 1980.

The Jewish Press of Tampa was formed in 1988. The popular paper, started by Jim and Karen Dawkins, still publishes today.

The Hillel Academy, which formed in 1970 at Rodeph Sholom, relocated to a 10-acre campus on Fletcher Avenue in 1992.

The Weinberg Village Assisted Living Facility, too, was established in 1995, in Citrus Park.

The Jewish community most recently celebrated the opening of the Bryan Glazer Family JCC in December 2016.

Located at the site of the historic Fort Homer W. Hesterly Armory building on North Howard Avenue, it now totals more than 4,400 members. “It’s a busy place,” Zielonka said.

The turn of the 21st century saw more Jewish families moving to south Tampa, creating a need for another Jewish Community Center, he explained.

“The demographics of Tampa are very different than they were 20 years ago,” Zielonka said.

“The Jewish community is 50 percent in the south — and growing. New people moving to town want to live in south Tampa because it’s close to where the action is.”

Published November 1, 2017

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Abe Maas, American Civil War, Bryan Glazer Family JCC, Burdines, Carl Zeilonka, Cecile Waterman Essrig, Charles Slager, Congregation Rodeph Sholom, Congregation Schaarai Zedek, Emaline Quentz Miley, Fletcher Avenue, Florida House of Representatives, Florida Jewish Weekly, Fort Homer W. Hesterly Armory, Franco-Prussian War, Harry N. Sandler, Helen Gordon Davis, Hillel Academy, Hillsborough County Commission, Hillsborough Hotel, Isaac Maas, Isidore Blumenthal, Jewish Press of Tampa, Jim Dawkins, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Karen Dawkins, Maas Brothers, Macy's, Max Argintar Menswear, North Florida Avenue, North Howard Avenue, Sandy Warshaw Freedman, Tampa Bay History Center, The Hebrew School, Weinberg Village Assisted Living Facility

Kindness rocks at this library

June 7, 2017 By Mary Rathman

The Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, at 2902 W. Bearss Ave., recently hosted more than 100 people of all ages for its first rock-painting event.

Ella Hodges, daughter of senior librarian Jennifer Hodges, helped out at the JB Kindness Rocks event that drew more than 100 people.
(Courtesy of Jennifer Hodges)

Jennifer Hodges, senior librarian, came up with the “JBKindness Rocks” group, to paint rocks to help spread kindness.

The library supplied rocks, paint and brushes at the May 20 session for those who wanted to make their own rock creations to hide in plain sight throughout their communities or pass along to a family member. Participants also could bring their own rocks.

The creations ranged from flowers to animals, and from notes of encouragement to abstract images.

Another rock-painting party is being planned prior to school starting again in August.

For a complete list of all upcoming events at the Jimmie B. Keel library, visit HCPLC.org.

Published June 6, 2017

Meagan Rathman-Urena, of Lutz, designed these rocks and intends to put them out and about in the community. (Mary Rathman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mary Wheaton, of Carrollwood Village, painted this rock for her expected first great-granddaughter. Anna Kathryn’s parents, Justin and Brittany Grant, live in Odessa, and her grandparents, Sam and Jeannie Wheaton, live in Lutz. (Courtesy of Meagan Rathmann-Urena)
Jennifer Hodges, senior librarian at the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, formed the group JBKindess Rocks to help spread kindness and cheer in the community. (Mary Rathman)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meagan Rathman-Urena, of Lutz, puts the finished touches on her rocks. (Mary Rathman)

 

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: JBKindness Rocks, Jennifer Hodges, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, West Bearss Avenue

Check out information, and fun, at local libraries

January 11, 2017 By B.C. Manion

A new year always offers a fresh chance to become more disciplined, learn new things, explore new hobbies and have more fun.

All that, and more, awaits visitors to local libraries.

One of the creatures that Stacy Dunn, an animal educator from Pinellas County Reptiles, brought to a show at New River Branch Library last June. She had a crowd of about 90 people hanging on her every word during the reptile show.
(File)

Besides a vast collection of books, CDs, DVDs and digital offerings, libraries host scores of events every month.

So, depending on your interests or your needs, you can often find just what you’re seeking at the library — for free.

And, if not at your local library, chances are you can find it at a library in a nearby community.

So, whether it’s learning more about Medicare, camellias, cooking or crafts — there are libraries in northern Hillsborough County, and east and central Pasco County, offering classes or events on topics like these and more.

Maybe you’re a gamer, or a movie buff. Libraries have free game nights and free movies, too.

A photo of 2nd Lt. Phil Rasmussen shows the airplane pilot in his pajamas with a pistol strapped around his waist. Rasmussen shot down a Japanese Zero during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

You can be a hands-on type, or a listener; someone brand new to a pursuit, or someone who knows what’s what. Regardless of your personality type or interests, you likely can locate a library that is offering what you’re hoping to find.

Here’s a look at just a few of the selections available at your local libraries through the end of January.

For future months, visit HCPLC.org to find out more of what’s happening in Hillsborough County libraries or PascoLibraries.org to find out about more offerings in Pasco County libraries.

What’s happening in northern Hillsborough County libraries

Austin Davis Public Library, 17808 Wayne Road in Odessa
Jan. 18, 1:15 p.m.: Wee Artists: Arts and crafts for preschoolers and their caregivers.

Jan. 24, 1:15 p.m.: Motion Commotion: This 30-minute program incorporates music, literacy and fitness for the whole family. Recommended for children ages 2 to 5.

Jan. 30, 6:30 p.m.: Adult Tech Bytes: Did you get a new electronic device over the holidays? Discover the library’s large selection of e-books, audiobooks and more. Upload free apps from the library. Those attending must have a working email address and wireless capabilities on their devices.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa
Jan. 13, 4 p.m.: Knitting for beginners
Jan. 14, 10:15 a.m.: English practice at Conversation Corner
Jan. 14, 2 p.m.: Introduction to 3D Printing
Jan. 21, 2 p.m.: Introduction to 3D Modeling with Tinker CAD
Jan. 25, 4 p.m.: Art after school
Jan. 28, 2 p.m.:3D Scanning with 123D Catch
Jan. 31, 4:30 p.m.: Storytelling workshop

Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road
Jan. 17, 4 p.m.: E-books for Tablets and Smartphones

Jan. 28, 3 p.m.: Super Science: Pirate Polly and her parrot, Crackers, will lead a pirate-themed program featuring science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Recommended for children in kindergarten through fifth grade and their families.

New Tampa Branch Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa
Jan. 12, 3 p.m.: How to Write a Resume

Jan. 12, 6 p.m.: Yoga for Well-Being

Jan. 17, 10 a.m.: Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring a project, and meet new people in this sit and stitch program. Beginners welcome. Bring your own supplies.

Jan. 17, 3 p.m.: Pig Out on Reading: Daisy the pig, along with Farmer and Mrs. Minor, will visit the library with stories about the pampered swine’s life. For ages 2 to 6.

Jan. 24, 3 p.m.: Intro to Cybersecurity: A beginner’s guide

What’s happening at East and Central Pasco County libraries

Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City
Jan. 13 and Jan. 14, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Friends of Hugh Embry Used Book Sale

Jan. 18, 1:30 p.m.: Learn how to become a Guardian Ad Litem volunteer

Jan. 18, 6:30 p.m.: Astronomer Ken Manning presents “When Celestial Bodies Collide: Eclipses & Other Phenomenon”

Jan. 24, 2 p.m.: In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day, Roslyn Franken, author of “Meant to Be: A True Story of Might, Miracles and Triumph of the Human Spirit,” will present an inspirational program based on her book.

Jan. 26, 4 p.m.: Coder DoJo Jr.: For grades six through 12. Javascript and more coding club. Bring your email address and password.

Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes
Jan. 14, 2 to 4 p.m.: An introduction to tools for junior woodworkers, ages 9 through 15

Jan. 21, 10 a.m.: Turning 65: Medicare assistance: The purpose of the program is to educate elders regarding Medicare insurance.

Jan. 28, 10 a.m.: Sylvia’s Kitchen: Participants will make chocolate-covered creations, ages 13 and up.

Jan. 28, 2 p.m.: Pre-teen jewelry: Making Pop Tab People, ages 9 through 15

New River Branch, 34043 State Road 54, Zephyrhills
Jan. 17, 2 p.m.: Learn about camellias from a master gardener
Jan. 19, 11 a.m.: Medicare 101: Get answers to your Medicare enrollment questions.
Jan. 19, 6:30 p.m.: Want to learn about gardening? Attend the community garden meeting.
Jan. 21, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.: After-hours community gaming night. Participants will play a wide array of board games, including such classics as Monopoly and Scrabble.

Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., Zephyrhills
Jan. 12: 9:45 a.m.: Career Source Mobile One: Job Search and Career Assistance: Job seekers will find help in searching for work, writing and printing resumes, and finding out about resources that can help them in their quest for employment.

Jan. 12, 6 p.m.: Lawyer in the library: Attorney Bret Galbraith will field questions on small business issues.

Jan. 18, 1 p.m.: AARP Seminar: Fraud Prevention: Learn how to protect yourself from ID theft and to protect yourself from scams.

Jan. 25, 11:30 a.m.: Cookbook Book Club: If you love to eat, love to learn new recipes and enjoy meeting new people, this club is for you.

Jan. 28, 9:30 a.m.: I Quit — Smoking Cessation. Learn strategies for quitting all forms of tobacco in a friendly and supportive setting.

Published January 11, 2017

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Austin Davis Public Library, Bearss Avenue, Collier Parkway, Cross Creek Boulevard, Dade City, Eighth Street, Fourth Street, Hugh Embry Library, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Land O' Lakes, Land O' Lakes Branch Library, Lutz, Lutz Branch Library, Lutz Lake Fern Road, Medicare, New River Branch, New Tampa, New Tampa Regional Library, Odessa, State Road 54, Tampa, Wayne Road, Zephyrhills, Zephyrhills Public Library

There’s no such thing as ‘managing’ time

January 4, 2017 By B.C. Manion

Maybe you’ve decided that this is the year that you’re going to do a better job of ‘managing’ your time.

But, if you listen to Richard Dutton, a retired professor of Managerial Behavior & Organization Studies from the University of South Florida, it is impossible to “manage” time.

“Time cannot be managed. It is completely independent of us,” Dutton said.

“We can use time. We can’t replace time,” said Dutton, formerly of the Muma College of Business at USF.

Richard E. Dutton, a retired professor of Managerial Behavior & Organization Studies in the Muma College of Business at the University of South Florida, recently spent a little of his time talking about the value of time. He presented a free lecture through the university’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, known as OLLI for short.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

It’s also impossible to “save time,” added Dutton, during remarks he delivered as part of a free lecture series offered through the university’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, also known as OLLI.

When people — especially college students — think about their personal resources, they tend to consider money to be their scarcest resource, Dutton said.

But, he said, that’s not true.

“Time is your scarcest resource. Today will never ever happen again. So, how you use your time today is critical. You can make more money. You can work more hours. You can’t make more time,” he said.

There are, however, ways to be more efficient and to make better use of your time, Dutton said, during his talk at the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library.

Here are some ways Dutton suggests to help you make better use of your time:

  • List your objectives
  • Rank the objectives based on importance
  • List actions that you need to take to achieve your objectives
  • Prioritize those actions
  • Schedule your time based on your priorities.

It’s important to have a manageable list, Dutton said. He suggests a list averaging five items. Avoid making lists that have more than nine items, he said.

It’s also important to know when you are most effective, Dutton said. Be aware of your personal productivity cycle. Some people wake up raring to go; others fare better later in the day.

It’s also important to discern the difference between being busy and being effective, Dutton said.

“We need more focused thinking,” he said.  “When we prioritize things well, we do the right things, not just the obvious things.

Schedule your most difficult tasks during your peak productivity periods, Dutton said.

Be sure to protect yourself from interruptions when you are doing your most difficult work, he said.

“Our mind is not good at solving problems that are complicated or difficult when we only have little splinters of time to work with,” he said. “We need chunks of time to solve complicated problems.”

When people are zoned in on a problem, their concentration can be broken by an alert they receive on their Smartphone, he said.

So, be sure to minimize disruptions by insulating yourself from telephone calls or people popping by for a chat, he said.

He also recommends grouping less important tasks together and doing them at the same time. That may mean reading through emails, returning telephone calls or doing busy work that has to be done but is not as important as other work you need to accomplish, he said.

Technology is useful, but needs to be used wisely, Dutton added.

“Sometimes we make ourselves busier than we should be. When you send out an email, you get an email back, right?

“Now you have to send another email.

“This is a never-ending cycle.

“Can’t we just talk?” Dutton asked.

One of the downsides of technology is the constant interruptions it creates, he said.

“I want to be the master of that phone. I don’t want it to interrupt me,” he said. “It’s my phone. I turn it on when I think I need it.”

Another way to accomplish more with our time is to master the art of delegation, Dutton said.

“Multiple yourself by letting other people have a part of the project, have a part of the action. You can help develop them, and, in the future they may be more and more and more helpful,” Dutton said.

Tips for having effective meetings:

  • Have a time limit
  • Have a written agenda
  • Consider conducting the meeting in a room without chairs — that tends to speeds things up.

 

Tips for choosing which line to wait in:

  • Get behind a single shopper with a full cart, rather than several shoppers who have fewer items.
  • When there are a series of lines, choose lines to the left. People tend to choose lines to their dominant side, so be sure you are giving all lines a fair shot.
  • Look for female cashiers, they tend to be faster in processing details.
  • Avoid chatty cashiers, regardless of gender.
  • Look at what people have in their carts. Don’t get behind people who have items that can complicate the transaction, such as someone who has lots of produce that must be weighed, or someone who has lots of coupons.
  • When there is a choice between a single line that leads to one cashier, or a line that leads to several cashiers, choose the one that has more cashiers. People tend to be more concerned about how long the line is than they are about how fast it is moving.

Published January 4, 2017

 

 

Filed Under: Top Story Tagged With: Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Muma College of Business, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, Richard Dutton, University of South Florida

Halloween tricks, treats and traditions on tap

October 26, 2016 By B.C. Manion

If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Halloween, you’ll find plenty of options across The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz, at 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., is hosting a Family Fun Festival that it’s calling “Light the Night.”

The event will be from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., on Oct. 31.

Pumpkin patches are popping up all over Hillsborough and Pasco counties, as area residents prepare for Halloween and fall festivals. (File Photos)
Pumpkin patches are popping up all over Hillsborough and Pasco counties, as area residents prepare for Halloween and fall festivals.
(File Photos)

Cars will be decorated with favorite kid-friendly themes and will line up on the Yellow parking lot and grounds outside the church’s Gatheria.

The cars’ trunks will be full of candy for children through fifth grade.

Each car also will provide a game, face painting, puppet show or other opportunity for fun.

Other highlights will be inflatables, balloon animals and a hayride.

Bring a camera to take advantage of photo opportunities.

Admission is $3 per person, with a maximum charge of $15 per family.

Children age 2 and under will be admitted without charge.

Hungry Harry’s BBQ will be available for purchase for $5, and other food items also will be available through the church’s kitchen.

The trunks will be open for children to pick up candy from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. The inflatables will be available the entire evening.

Register by Oct. 30 at Idlewild.org/children, to avoid waiting in long lines. To find out more, call (813) 264-1515, ext. 1561.

Meanwhile, in Pasco County, the 12th annual Wesley Chapel Fall Festival & Carnival is set for Oct. 28 through Oct. 30, at 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd.

This year, the event has added a day to give families more time to enjoy carnival food, midway games and rides.

These gourds add a splash of Halloween color.
These gourds add a splash of Halloween color.

The festival will be from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., on Oct. 28; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., on Oct. 29; and, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., on Oct. 30.

Highlights on Oct. 29 and Oct. 30 will include live music, a business expo, pumpkin patch, petting zoo, pony rides, fall foods and beverages, food trucks, interactive craft activities, arts and crafts exhibitors, vendors, a doggie fun area and pet adoption event.

Kids can celebrate Halloween in a safe environment on Oct. 29, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at the Trunk or Treat activity.

For more information on the festival, a Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce event, visit GroveShopping.com. Visit DreamlandAmusements.com for coupon savings on ride wristbands, ride tickets and carnival food.

Meanwhile, over in St. Leo, Saint Leo University’s Office of Residence Life is inviting the community to Haunted Marmion, an event set for Oct. 27, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Marmion-Snyder Hall, 33701 State Road 52.

All floors of the residence halls will be transformed into a themed haunted house. Trick-or-treating will occur on two floors of Snyder Hall. There will be games and other activities in the Lion’s Den (a common area for both halls) for those not participating in the haunted house or trick-or-treating.

The event is free; however, those attending are asked to donate one or more canned/nonperishable food items at check-in, which will be given to a local food bank for distribution to those in need in the community.

In Land O’ Lakes, those who enjoy a good scare may want to drop by the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., to experience The Haunted House on 41.

The event, slated for Oct. 27 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Oct. 28 and Oct. 29 from 7:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., promises three nights of bone-chilling terror.

Admission is $1 each. Some scenes, the organizers with Pasco County Parks, Recreation & Natural Resources say, may be too intense for young children.

For those who enjoy staying active, the Northdale 5K Pumpkin Run & 1 Mile Family Run/Walk may be just the thing.

The event is set for Oct. 29, at the Bob Sierra YMCA Youth & Family Center, 4015 Ragg Road in Tampa.

The chip-timed race will have a costume contest and is dog friendly. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Bob Sierra Y’s annual campaign to ensure the facility keeps its doors open to all, regardless of an individual’s financial hardship.

For more information, call (813) 962-3220.

Some area high schools are also hosting special events.

Sunlake High School, at 3203 Sunlake Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, is holding a “Trick or Treat Around the Track” on Oct. 29, from 10:30 a.m. to 11: 30 a.m.

Wesley Chapel High School, at 30651 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel, is hosting a “Halloween Safe Zone,” on Oct. 29 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., in the school’s cafeteria and parking lot.

For more details about these events, contact Sunlake High and Wesley Chapel High.

Area libraries also are holding special events.

Land O’ Lakes Library, at 2818 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, is hosting a Pumpkin Fest for all ages on Oct. 29 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event involves decorating pumpkins, using a wide variety of techniques.

New River Library, at 34043 State Road 54 in Zephyrhills, has three Halloween events planned.

On Oct. 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the library is welcoming infants through 5-year-olds to wear their favorite costume to the library’s Costume Story Time.

The library also is hosting a Halloween Movie & S’Mores for fourth-graders and older on Oct. 27 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

And, on Oct. 28 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., it’s hosting a Fall Family Night.  The evening will feature crafts, refreshments and a costume contest.

The Carrollwood Toastmasters are also getting into the Halloween spirit by hosting an open house on Oct. 26 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., in Tampa. There will be free food, fun and prizes. Feel free to wear a costume and bring a friend.

Published October 26, 2016

 

Filed Under: Top Story Tagged With: Bob Sierra YMCA Youth & Family Center, Carrollwood Toastmasters, Collier Parkway, Exciting Idlewild Boulevard, Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce, Hungry Harry's BBQ, Idlewild Baptist Church, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Land O' Lakes Boulevard, Land O' Lakes Community Center, Land O' Lakes Library, Lutz, New River Library, Pasco County Parks Recreation & Natural Resources, Ragg Road, Saint Leo University, St. Leo, State Road 52, State Road 54, Sunlake Boulevard, Sunlake High School, The Grove, Wells Road, Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel High School, Wesley Grove Boulevared, West Bearss Avenue, Zephyrhills

  • Go to page 1
  • Go to page 2
  • Go to Next Page »

Primary Sidebar

Top Shelf Sports Lounge in Wesley Chapel

Foodie Friday Gallery

Search

Sponsored Content

Avalon Applauds… Norah Catlin

February 23, 2021 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

CONGRATULATIONS to Norah Catlin, for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. Catlin, a senior at Wiregrass Ranch … [Read More...] about Avalon Applauds… Norah Catlin

More Posts from this Category

Archives

What’s Happening

03/05/2021 – Apple Pie Bombs

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will offer “Foodie Feast: Apple Pie Bombs” on March 5. Participants can learn how to make tasty, apple pie bombs. Watch the prerecorded video between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., online at Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary. For information, call 352-567-3576, or email Danielle Lee at . … [Read More...] about 03/05/2021 – Apple Pie Bombs

03/06/2021 – Pancakes and trains

The Grand Concourse Railroad, 11919 Alric Pottberg Road in Shady Hills, will offer a Pancake Breakfast and Unlimited Train Rides event on March 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $6 for adults and $4 for kids. For information, visit Grand Concourse Railroad on Facebook. … [Read More...] about 03/06/2021 – Pancakes and trains

03/08/2021 – Tomato garden

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present a video on how to grow a tomato garden. Those interested can view the video at Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary, all day, on March 8. For information, call 352-567-3576, or email . … [Read More...] about 03/08/2021 – Tomato garden

03/09/2021 – Grilled cheese

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present a video on how to make green grilled cheese on March 9 at 4:30 p.m., for grades four to seven. To view the video, visit the Library Cooperative on Facebook or Instagram. … [Read More...] about 03/09/2021 – Grilled cheese

03/09/2021 – Poetry discussion

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host a virtual poetry discussion group on “Female Power!” on March 9 at 6:30 p.m., for ages 16 and older, via Zoom. Participants can share a favorite poem or take part in discussions on poems about women or written by women poets. Themed poems will be sent out to help with the session. Registration is required. For information, contact Amaris Papadopoulos at 727-861-3020 or . … [Read More...] about 03/09/2021 – Poetry discussion

03/09/2021 – Technology Tuesday

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a Technology Tuesday: Robots & Machines on March 9, through a curbside pickup activity. The kit will help kids learn more about technology, from robots to coding, through online and hands-on activities. The pickup is limited to 35 participants and must be reserved ahead of time. A book bundle can be included. Kits must be picked up between March 9 at 10 a.m., and March 13 at 5 p.m. For information, call 813-929-1214. … [Read More...] about 03/09/2021 – Technology Tuesday

More of What's Happening

Follow us on Twitter

The Laker/Lutz NewsFollow

The Laker/Lutz News
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
3h

Solution to Land O’ Lakes traffic jams still years away, if then. https://buff.ly/2Oky2lz

Reply on Twitter 1367882601093079041Retweet on Twitter 1367882601093079041Like on Twitter 1367882601093079041Twitter 1367882601093079041
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
4 Mar

SWFMD executive director wins geology alumni award. https://buff.ly/3uCXm6G

Reply on Twitter 1367520307708370944Retweet on Twitter 1367520307708370944Like on Twitter 1367520307708370944Twitter 1367520307708370944
LakerLutzNewsThe Laker/Lutz News@LakerLutzNews·
3 Mar

Save money, get back behind the wheel. https://buff.ly/3rdM07h

Reply on Twitter 1367228541998350339Retweet on Twitter 1367228541998350339Like on Twitter 1367228541998350339Twitter 1367228541998350339
Load More...

 

 

Where to pick up The Laker and Lutz News

Top Stories

Solution to Land O’ Lakes traffic jams still years away, if then

Helping people get from place to place, safely

Giving entrepreneurs tools they need to succeed

Zephyrhills discussing 911 dispatch

No plans to shutter Zephyrhills police department

Local Jewish temple gifted Torah

Save money, get back behind the wheel

Pasco County Fair lives up to its billing

Meals on Wheels looks to expand

Pasco Planning Commission seeks three volunteers

Operation Feed Pasco closes, amid success

It’s strawberry (shortcake) season again

Grove Theater now open in Wesley Chapel

Secondary Sidebar

More Stories

Check out our other stories for the week

Solution to Land O’ Lakes traffic jams still years away, if then

Helping people get from place to place, safely

Giving entrepreneurs tools they need to succeed

Zephyrhills discussing 911 dispatch

No plans to shutter Zephyrhills police department

Local Jewish temple gifted Torah

Save money, get back behind the wheel

Pasco County Fair lives up to its billing

Meals on Wheels looks to expand

Pasco Planning Commission seeks three volunteers

Operation Feed Pasco closes, amid success

It’s strawberry (shortcake) season again

Grove Theater now open in Wesley Chapel

Sports Stories

Land O’ Lakes Little League celebrates 50th anniversary

Cypress Creek High coach earns regional honor

Saint Leo acrobatics coach steps down

Loving Hands Ministries golf tournament

First Tee – Tampa Bay awarded $100,000 grant

Copyright © 2021 Community News Publications Inc.

   