Zoe Spanos doesn’t let her physical challenges define her, but manages to thrive instead. The 15-year-old Lutz teenager, who has cerebral palsy, lives life like many teens. The rising Steinbrenner High School sophomore is a straight A student and a dedicated member of JROTC and HOSA-Future Health Professionals. She’s also a fitness buff — into cross training, weightlifting and … [Read more...]
Local athletes celebrate paralympic achievements
October 11, 2017 By
Whenever she competes, 12-year-old Danielle Kanas gives it her all. And that mindset has worked for the Martinez Middle School seventh-grader, who ran, swam, threw and jumped her way to 15 gold medals and six national records this summer at the Adaptive Sports USA Junior Nationals in Middleton, Wisconsin. Kanas — a single-arm amputee, missing her left arm below the elbow — recently added … [Read more...]
2015 marked by growth, loss, compassion
December 30, 2015 By
New construction captured many headlines during the year 2015 in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area. But, so did traffic issues and changes happening in area schools. Other news chronicled setbacks and tragic losses. But, there were inspiring stories, too. Tampa Premium Outlets, a 441,000-square-foot mall with 100-plus designer brand shops, opened in October off State Road 56, near the … [Read more...]
Fifteen-year-old raises $1 million for hospital
December 23, 2015 By
Leigh Dittman always knew that she would achieve her goal of raising $1 million for Shriners Hospitals for Children – she just didn’t know she’d do it by age 15. The Gaither High School student, who has a disorder known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), said she was motivated to raise the money for Shriners because of how giving it has been to her. “They are such an amazing group of … [Read more...]
Health News 09-14-15
September 9, 2015 By
Shriners Hospitals for Children looking for alumni Shriners Hospitals for Children – Tampa is looking for original patients, staff and volunteers to help celebrate its 30th anniversary on Oct. 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the hospital at 12502 USF Pine Drive in Tampa. If you were connected to the hospital when it opened in 1985 and want to attend the celebration, contact Jamie Santillo at … [Read more...]
Javic Homes showcases Southern Living
April 8, 2015 By
The outside wrapping is pure traditional white. A pair of rocking chairs sits on the front porch. The metal roofing atop a bay window brings a touch of Craftsman bungalow. Inside, traditional gives way to modern. There’s an open floor plan, colors that pop in purple and copper next to grays and beiges on interior walls, and state-of-the art connectivity and technology. Out back, two … [Read more...]
