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The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

       

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AdventHealth Center Ice

National ice skating showcase comes to Wesley Chapel

August 9, 2022 By Mike Camunas

It was figure skating’s time in the spotlight.

Literally.

AdventHealth Center Ice — known widely for its hockey teams and tournaments — hosted an entirely different kind of event, when more than 500 performers laced up their skates for the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase.

Megan Siemp, of the Ice House Skating Academy in Michigan, performs her Junior Character Performance Showcase during the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel. More than 500 performers came to the weeklong competition, and put on varying showcases with costumes and musical numbers. (Mike Camunas)

The competition ran from Aug. 1 to Aug. 6.

The performers donned impressive costumes and used various props to perform to memorable songs, to demonstrate their impressive skills.

“We do have a lot of hockey events, so it was really nice for figure skating to take over the rink for a whole week,” said Jenna Dispenza, who, with her husband, Vinny, are the skating directors at Center Ice. “Hockey is great — Go Lightning! — but it’s nice for figure skating to get its turn here to shine.

“And it’s pretty incredible,” she added. “(The showcase) is the biggest national-type of competition U.S. Figure Skating hosts. Plus, the elite level of the theatrical side is just a huge bonus, because it’s comparable to Broadway (shows).

Traverse City (Michigan) Figure Skating Club’s Anna Rossiter goes full ‘greased lightning’ for her Junior Character Performance Showcase.

“Once the showcases get going, it’s really ‘Lights, camera, action!’”

Skaters flooded the common areas and halls of Center Ice, wearing elaborate costumes and makeup. They worked with props to come up with theatrical performance showcases, fusing figure skating with artistic creativity.

Showcase events were open to single skaters, duets, small ensembles and production numbers.

Skaters performed in the categories such as Emotional Performance, Choreographic Artistry, Lyrical Pop, Character Performance, Comedic Impressions and Interpretive.

Remington Bennett, of the Ice House Skating Academy in Michigan, was one of more than 500 performers at the recent U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

“The incredible entertainment this event, its skaters are bringing is so different in our sport where it’s not just the technical part,” Dispenza said. “It’s not just jumps and spins — it’s the costumes, the props, the music, the theatrical side of skating, some of which you don’t typically see.”

Dispenza said the community came out in large numbers, not just to see the showcases, but also to volunteer.

“A lot of people really wanted to see a different side of skating,” Dispenza added.

“And they weren’t disappointed. They saw some incredible showcases.”

The Dispenzas also coach Champion’s Edge, the figure skating club at Center Ice. The club was well represented in the National Showcase, with the skaters performing their own showcases, as well as a team performance.

Figure skater performers from Michigan, Paige Bartholomew, left, and Lexi Lafata, help each other apply makeup for their performances at the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

The team — featuring eight girls, ages 11 to 16 — offered their take on Florida by transforming themselves into “The Beach Girls” for the performance on Aug. 6.

“It’s incredible to get a big group of skaters like that working toward one big showcase,” Dispenza said. “We have local skaters who want to get out there and just take complete advantage of this opportunity to put on a showcase here.”

Jessica Romonosky, a 14-year-old Land O’ Lakes resident with Champion’s Edge, was proud of the way Center Ice hosted the event.

“This is the biggest thing to ever happen (to figure skating) at the rink,” Romonosky said. “It’s really great to see how our rink is being fully represented with such a huge event. It’s so awesome to be a part of this entire showcase.”

Fellow Land O’ Lakes resident Mackenzie Toews, 11, said she wasn’t used to so many additional figure skaters beyond her Champion’s Edge club.

“But it was so cool and awesome to see everyone’s different routine and what they ended up doing for a performance,” she added.

That was the whole point: figure skaters had a whole week to spotlight their talents.

Just like Olivia Bosley, a 13-year-old Dade City resident, who performed her showcase to ‘When I Am Older,’ a song sung by Olaf (Josh Gad) in ‘Frozen 2.’

“I’m really proud of my work, considering it’s at a national showcase,” Bosley said. The event, she said, “is pretty exciting because you get to see what everyone else comes up with and puts together in different categories. I think we’re all excited to perform, but we’re also very excited to watch other performances, too.”

Published August 10, 2022

Kasey Breul, dressed as Marty McFly from ‘Back To The Future,’ views a television screen to watch other skaters performing at the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, in Wesley Chapel.
Alexandra Nelson, dressed as Doc Brown from ‘Back To The Future,’ awaits in full costume to perform her showcase with her partner, Kasey Breul, dressed as Marty McFly.
Gemma Soles, of the Traverse City (Michigan) Figure Skating Club, dons a yellow costume and soulful song for her Junior Character Performance Showcase during the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.
Kate Mullen, of All Year Figure Skating Club in Los Angeles, was one of more than 500 performers from across the nation at the figure skating showcase.

 

Chalk Talk 07/27/2022

July 26, 2022 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

Donation to help children in crisis
The Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) Chapter of Association of Florida Colleges collected brand-new stuffed animals to deliver to first responders in Pasco and Hernando counties. PHSC employees and community members donated 285 stuffed animals, which were given to the Pasco and Hernando Sheriff’s Offices. First responders will use the donations for children in crisis situations, to help them calm down. From left: Hernando County Sheriff’s Office officers Sgt. Matt Lillibridge, Deputy Juan Perez and Deputy Deena Groves; and Samantha Apostolou, senior office assistant, Academic Success Center, and PHSC Chapter of AFC Spring Hill Campus representative.

Wiregrass Round-Up
Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, will host a “Freshman & New to Wiregrass Round-Up” on July 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Student drop-off begins at 8:45 a.m.

Participants will have the opportunity to meet some of the teachers, tour the school, and create a freshman memory box to take home. A pizza lunch will be provided.

For more information and to register, visit WRHS.pasco.k12.fl.us.

Back-to-school fundraiser
Step up for Pasco Students! is a back-to-school fundraiser, sponsored by Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells; the YMCA of the Suncoast James P. Gills Family Branch Togetherhood Committee; educator, entrepreneur and philanthropist Jacques Hakim; and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office Charities.

Every $10 donation buys a new pair of shoes for a child in need: The goal is 5,000 pairs.

Sponsorship levels also are available.

For information or to donate, visit bit.ly/2022ShoeDrive.

Backpack handout
Verizon retailers, TCC and Wireless Zone stores will be handing out backpacks full of school suplies, to help students prepare for the upcoming school year and to help parents reduce their supply spending.

Participating stores will be giving out backpacks on July 31 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., or while supplies last.

In addition to getting a backpack filled with supplies, students also can be entered into a sweepstakes to win a $10,000 college scholarship through the School Rocks Backpack Giveaway’s Big Impact. Children in kindergarten through 12th grade are eligible for entry. A total of five scholarships will be randomly awarded to select winners.

These local stores will be handing out backpacks: In Lutz, 18959 State Road 54. Call 813-949-0999; and in Wesley Chapel, 28329 Paseo Drive, Suite 190. Call 813-991-7202.

Stuff the Bus
The Pasco Education Foundation is looking for community partners, businesses and individuals to help “Stuff the Bus” on Aug. 1 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the foundation’s Wise Supplies Center, 7227 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Portable 30, in Land O’ Lakes.

The needed supply list includes: copy paper; primary paper and journals; highlighters; washable markers; sharpies; dry erase markers and erasers; gel pens and erasable pens; scientific calculators; batteries; Clorox wipes; laminating pouches; lunch boxes; construction paper; scissors (all sizes); velcro dots; bandaids; Ziploc bags (all sizes); graph paper; recess equipment; and No. 2 pencils.

For information, call 813-794-2705, visit PascoEducationFoundation.org/wisesupplies/, or email .

Volunteers needed
AdventHealth Center Ice is looking for volunteers for the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, Aug. 1 through Aug. 6.

Available opportunities include: spotlight operators; performer check-in; registration assistance; and assistance with performers on and off the ice.

Necessary training will be provided prior to the event.

Students can receive applicable volunteer hours for the Bright Futures program.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/2j66krk4.

Sewing for home-schoolers
The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will offer Homeschool Sewing for Beginners on Aug. 3 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., for ages 9 and older.

All supplies will be provided. Participants can create a needle book, using basic sewing tools, and practicing simple skills such as measuring, cutting, straight stitch and backstitch.

Safety and waiver forms are required. A guardian/parent must complete the form for anyone under the age of 18. Forms can be picked up at the service desk before the class.

Registration is online at PascoLibraries.org.

National pilot program
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) is among 15 of the country’s leading community colleges selected for the National Association for Community College Entrepreneurship (NACCE) Entrepreneurial College of the Future national pilot program, according to a news release.

The new initiative harnesses teams of three leaders at each college who will work together and with other colleges to tackle challenges and opportunities in their campus and local communities.

PHSC representatives will be Lisa Richardson, associate vice president of alumni and college relations/executive director, PHSC Foundation; Jim Myers, assistant professor and program director of business; and Sonia Thorn, assistant vice president of academic affairs, marketing and communications.

Through the collaboration, a group of leading experts in ideation, fundraising, student and employee engagement, and workforce development will identify the best innovative practices that will be shared through NACCE’s network of colleges reaching over 4 million students, the release said.

Chalk Talk 07/20/2022

July 19, 2022 By Mary Rathman

Shining a light on hatred
Students are shining a light on antisemitism with a new art exhibit, ‘Shine a Light Youth Art Contest,’ produced by the Tampa JCCs & Federation. The contest included a Junior Division (fourth- through seventh-graders) and a Senior Division (eighth- through 12th-graders). The exhibit is helping to raise awareness about antisemitism, share educational resources and empower individuals to stand against the hatred of Jewish people, through the power of art. The winning artwork can be found in the lobby of the Tampa Municipal Office Building, 306 E. Jackson St., in Tampa, through Aug. 8. The exhibit’s next stop will be the Tampa International Airport in late fall.

Citizens’ Academy is back
Pasco County Schools is accepting applications for the third year of its Citizens’ Academy, to give members of the public an in-depth insider’s look at every aspect of the school district.

The academy will consist of eight monthly meetings; the first class will be on Aug. 18. Five meetings will take place during the day, and three meetings will be in the evening.

Sessions will be a combination of informational lessons, tours and classroom presentations.

Participants will visit several of Pasco County’s diverse schools; meet with district leaders, school personnel, and principals; and learn about special programs, curriculum, athletics, budget, student nutrition, school safety initiatives and more.

The academy class will have 30 members to 50 members from the community. Graduation is set for April 27.

Anyone interested can apply online by July 24, at PascoSchools.org/comm/page/ca.

Those selected will be notified by email the week of July 25.

Human trafficking webinar
Saint Leo University and Pasco F1RST will offer a free, online webinar about fighting human trafficking, on July 26 at 7 p.m.

“Danger! Social Media Recruitment is on the Rise Since COVID-19” will be presented by the Mel Greene Institute to Combat Human Trafficking.

The guest speaker will be Marina Anderson, regional human trafficking coordinator for the northeast and northwest regions for the Florida Department of Children and Families.

Anderson is a recognized expert in safety methodology, providing training and mentoring to child protective investigators and the Child Protective Investigations Section in law enforcement agencies.

For information on how to register, email Karin May at .

Wiregrass Round-Up
Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, will host a “Freshman & New to Wiregrass Round-Up” on July 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Student drop-off begins at 8:45 a.m.

Participants will have the opportunity to meet some of the teachers, tour the school, and create a freshman memory box to take home. A pizza lunch will be provided.

For more information and to register, visit WRHS.pasco.k12.fl.us.

Free Early Childhood tuition
Fred K. Marchman Technical College will offer free tuition to enable potential early learning teachers to be trained and certified, in an effort to address the shortage of teachers working in private child care in Pasco County.

The free tuition is made possible through a federal Preschool Development Grant in the amount of $524,212 awarded to the Early Learning Coalition of Pasco and Hernando Counties Inc., the release said.

“This opportunity addresses a critical need in our community,” said Tonia Shook, director of Marchman Technical College, in the release.

“The grant benefits our students, as it provides monetary incentives to complete their education, enter the field, and advance their career,” said Shook.

More information is available online at tinyurl.com/7uwz6u7c.

Student graduates
These local students graduated from The University of Tampa:

  • Sarah Aledo-Cubano, Odessa: Bachelor of Science in Allied Health (Dean’s List)
  • Joseph Allen, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Finance
  • Mackenzie Allen, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Marketing
  • Jaime Banks, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Finance
  • Himanshu Bhatt, Odessa: Master of Business Administration in Executive
  • Alyssa Cabrera, Lutz: Bachelor of Arts in Journalism; Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre (Dean’s List)
  • Leigh Dittman, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Dean’s List)
  • Noah Doble, Odessa: Bachelor of Science in Economics (Dean’s List)
  • Cheyenne Dula, Lutz: Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations
  • Liam Fennel, Odessa: Bachelor of Science in Sport Management
  • Rye Gapinski, Lutz: Bachelor of Arts in Applied Sociology
  • Ellen Hannaman, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Marketing
  • Emalee Jansen, Lutz: Master of Science in Accounting
  • Kristina Layton, Lutz: Master of Science in Nursing
  • Joshua Luther, Odessa: Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity (Dean’s List)
  • Sarah Miranda, Odessa: Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice
  • Connor Molloy, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems
  • Samuel Neal, Lutz: Bachelor of Arts in Communication Media and Culture
  • Carly Peirano, Odessa: Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
  • Trevor Puleo, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Business Information Technology
  • Michael Recenello, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Finance
  • Sydney Rose, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems
  • Maxim Stepanets, Lutz: Master of Science in Finance
  • Kayla Wittyngham, Odessa: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Dean’s List)

Other local graduates include Steve Luttrull, of Lutz, who earned a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands, Williamsburg, Kentucky; and Nathan Shane, of Lutz, who earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from The Citadel, Charleston, South Carolina.

Volunteers needed
AdventHealth Center Ice is looking for volunteers for the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, Aug. 1 through Aug. 6.

Available opportunities include: spotlight operators; performer check-in; registration assistance; and assistance with performers on and off the ice.

Necessary training will be provided prior to the event.

Students can receive applicable volunteer hours for the Bright Futures program.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/2j66krk4.

Student recognitions
These local students have been named to the Dean’s List at their respective schools:

  • Hunter Balistreri, Odessa: University of Tampa
  • Cole Benjamin, Odessa: University of Tampa
  • Braden Contreras, Lutz: Florida Institute of Technology
  • Robert Cooper, Lutz: University of Tampa
  • Jacqueline Figueredo, Lutz: Florida Institute of Technology
  • Alyssa Gomez, Odessa: University of Tampa
  • Julianne Grega, Lutz: University of Tampa
  • Lilly Kiester, Lutz: University of Tampa
  • Hope Lelekacs, Odessa: University of Tampa
  • Brandy Lindauer, Land O’ Lakes: Saint Mary’s University, Winona, Minnesota
  • Michelle Loefstrand, Odessa: University of Tampa
  • Madison McElhone, Lutz: University of Tampa
  • Zoe Papageorgiou, Odessa: University of Tampa
  • Vasant Ramnarine, Lutz: Florida Institute of Technology
  • Gage Robinson, Lutz: University of Tampa
  • Indraneel Raut, Wesley Chapel: Gustavus Adolphus College, Saint Peter, Minnesota
  • Angelina Santana, Lutz: University of Tampa
  • Jacob Statman, Lutz: Rochester Institute of Technology, New York

Physicals & backpacks
Premier Community HealthCare will offer $15 back-to-school physicals through Aug. 31, on Mondays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Tuesdays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Students can receive complete physical examinations, state-required screenings, and a free backpack with starter supplies. (Backpacks are available for all school-aged students, while supplies last.)

To schedule an appointment at one of Premier’s eight locations, visit PremierHC.org, or call 352-518-2000.

Business Digest 07/20/2022

July 19, 2022 By B.C. Manion

Center Ice names new CEO
AdventHealth Center Ice, the largest ice sports complex in the Southeast, has announced that James Mitchell is being elevated to the role of CEO (chief executive officer).

A veteran of the business since before its opening in January 2017, Mitchell has filled various roles over his six-year tenure, including marketing director and chief operating officer, according to a news release.

He will assume the role held by Gordie Zimmermann, the managing partner, who will maintain his ownership position, but will devote his time to construction projects and other business pursuits.

Mitchell was a key player in implementing policies to successfully meet the challenges presented by COVID-19.

Mitchell has had the opportunity to learn from the various leadership styles of previous and current management over the past six years.

“I am grateful and humbled by this opportunity,” Mitchell said in the release.

“I want to provide leadership that allows every member of our team to become the best version of themselves,” he added.

AdventHealth Center Ice is a 150,000-square-foot facility featuring five ice rinks (one Olympic-sized, three NHL format, and one mini-rink), 18 locker rooms, a fitness and sports recovery center, off-ice training area, full restaurant/bar, concession stand, and pro shop.

The enterprise supports the activities of community public skaters, professional figure skaters, and is home of the state’s largest learn-to-skate program, 37 youth rec and travel hockey teams, 94 adult league hockey teams, 12 regional high school hockey teams, two university hockey teams, and the Tampa Bay Juniors — the state’s leading junior hockey teams playing in the USPHL (United States Premier Hockey League).

It also hosts numerous tournaments year-round, bringing tens of thousands of participants and visitors to the area, the release noted.

The facility has played a key role in Pasco County’s tourism effort, attracting major tournaments to the area, which has resulted in overnight stays at area hotels and spending at local restaurants, gas stations and local attractions, according to stories previously published in The Laker/Lutz News.

Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions
Asurion Tech Repair & Solutions has opened in Wesley Chapel, at 6431 E. County Line Road.

The electronics repair shop specializes in the same-day professional fixes of personal electronics like smartphones, tablets and computers. Additionally, the team can provide repairs on anything with a power button — from drones and hoverboards to vintage arcade games and light-up Christmas sweaters, according to a news release.

Many basic repairs can be completed in 45 minutes or less.

The store is owned locally by Anton Hoang, who also owns a shop in Brooksville.

Hotel staff shortages
Nearly all hotels are experiencing staffing shortages, and half report being severely understaffed, according to a new member survey conducted by the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA).

Of survey respondents, 97% indicated they are experiencing a staffing shortage, with 49% characterizing the shortage as severe. The most critical staffing need is in housekeeping, with 58% ranking it as their biggest challenge, the survey shows.
To meet the demand, hotels are offering a host of incentives for potential hires: nearly 90% have increased wages, 71% are offering greater flexibility with hours, and 43% have expanded benefits.

The efforts have helped, but shortages remain a significant issue, according to the AHLA’s news release.

Admissions Untangled
Admissions Untangled helps high school seniors determine which colleges or universities are the best fit academically, financially, socially, and for the student’s desired major and career goals. Each student receives individual attention and help to develop a list of reach, target and likely schools, and to work through all aspects of the college admissions process. To find out more, email , or visit https://www.instagram.com/admissionsuntangled/.

PowerGals meeting
PowerGals of Zephyrhills meets on the first Friday of each month, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Shell’s Killer Bakery Inc., 5718 Sixth St., in Zephyrhills. The group’s chapter leader is Rosie Paulsen and its co-leader is Monica Young. This group is about empowering women in business, to help them thrive and to help each other.

SMARTstart programs
SMARTstart is the Pasco Economic Development Council Inc.’s capstone program, aimed at engaging entrepreneurs and creating job opportunities in Pasco County. It has a suite of programs intended to benefit companies of all sizes, from start-up to established businesses. It also has incubator and microloan programs.

To find out more, visit SMARTSTARTPasco.com.

Chalk Talk 07/13/2022

July 12, 2022 By Mary Rathman

(Courtesy of Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office)

Essay contest winner announced
Alyssa Gardiner, a student at River Ridge High School’s New Teacher Academy, was selected as the winner in the Pasco County Tax Collector’s essay contest. Gardiner wrote about the expansion needs and environmental challenges associated with the Ridge Road Extension. ‘The New Teacher Academy has given me, as well as many other students, an abundance of opportunities….Participating in this contest was a special opportunity that I have never had before. I was able to connect with this essay because I love writing, while also connecting with the community,’ said Gardiner in a news release. Pasco Tax Collector Mike Fasano presented Gardiner with a $500 Visa gift card.

Open registration
Registration for Hillsborough County’s after-school programming is now open.

The two-week sessions, offered through Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation, run from the end of the school day until 6 p.m., for children in kindergarten through eighth grade.

Parks & Recreation also has inclusive and adaptive after-school programs for those with special needs.

Activities include indoor and outdoor games, athletic leagues including flag football, soccer and basketball, and a character-building curriculum.

The cost is $76, or $60 with a reduced lunch letter, or $40 with a free lunch letter.

The programs follow the Hillsborough County School District calendar.

For information or to register, visit HCFLGov.net/AfterSchool.

Camden Moors (Courtesy of Foote Communications)

Eschool student scholar
Camden Moors, a Pasco Eschool student from Land O’ Lakes, was honored as a 2022 Denny’s Hungry for Education Scholar during a special virtual program.

Denny’s scholarship program recognizes and rewards students who show initiative and creativity in helping Denny’s bring communities together.

Partnering with 11 leading nonprofit, minority advocacy organizations, Denny’s awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships this year to deserving elementary, high school and college students.

Moors, selected by Partners for Youth with Disabilities, said in a news release, “To help bring the commuity together, connecting food waste with homeless shelters, food banks and direct to the needy willing to pick it up would most certainly help bring the community together. We all need to have a hand in helping solve hunger in our communities.”

The virtual celebration focused on the winners, along with their family and friends, and can be viewed at DennysHungryForEducation.com.

School Supply Drive
Florida Avenue Brewing Co., 2029 Arrow Grass Drive in Wesley Chapel, will host a School Supply Drive from July 18 through July 27.

Taproom guests, age 21 and older, will have the opportunity to donate $4 toward the purchase of school supplies for Wise Supplies, a free school supply center in Land O’ Lakes for economically challenged students, founded by the Pasco Eduction Foundation.

Each $4 donation will include a free pint, one per guest, one per day.

Stuff the Backpack
The team at First National Bank of Pasco is hosting a Stuff the Backpack Drive through July 22, at all four of its county branches.

Items that are needed include: pencils/pens; scissors; ear buds (wired); spiral notebooks; folders; paper; glue sticks; colored pencils/crayons; liquid soap; Ziploc bags; Kleenex; highlighters; erasers; pencil boxes; rulers; and hand sanitizer.

Monetary donations will be used to purchase additional school supplies.

Back to School event
The Church at Myrtle Lake, 2017 Reigler Road in Land O’ Lakes, will host a Back to School Drive-Thru on July 23 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Children in kindergarten through 12th grade must be in attendance to receive one free backpack and school items, while supplies last.

For information, visit MyrtleLake.org.

Freshman Round-Up
Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, will host a “Freshman & New to Wiregrass Round-Up” on July 29 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Student drop-off begins at 8:45 a.m.

Participants will have the opportunity to meet some of the teachers, tour the school, and create a freshman memory box to take home. A pizza lunch will be provided.

For more information and to register, visit WRHS.pasco.k12.fl.us.

ABC Program
All five offices of the Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano will accept donations during July for the Pasco County School District’s ABC (Assist, Believe & Care) Program.

The program was created to provide financial assistance to students and their families who are experiencing economic hardship, especially when those needs interfere with the student’s ability to be academically successful.

Monetary donations go into a fund that teachers can use when they see or learn of a need a child may have.

For information and office locations, contact Greg Giordano, assistant tax collector, at 727-847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com.

Volunteers needed
AdventHealth Center Ice is looking for volunteers for the U.S. Figure Skating 2022 National Showcase, Aug. 1 through Aug. 6.

Available opportunities include: spotlight operators; performer check-in; registration assistance; and assistance with performers on and off the ice.

Necessary training will be provided prior to the event.

Students can receive applicable volunteer hours for the Bright Futures program.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/2j66krk4.

Physicals & backpacks
Premier Community HealthCare will offer $15 back-to-school physicals through Aug. 31, on Mondays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Tuesdays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Students can receive complete physical examinations, state-required screenings, and a free backpack with starter supplies. (Backpacks are available for all school-aged students, while supplies last.)

To schedule an appointment at one of Premier’s eight locations, visit PremierHC.org, or call 352-518-2000.

Poster contest winners
Pasco County Utilities, the Florida Govermental Utility Authority and Pasco County Schools hosted its 13th annual Water Awareness Poster Contest for students in Pasco elementary schools. The theme was “Do Your Part, Be Water Smart.”

Judges used science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) learning standards to choose the top posters.

Winning posters are on display in the lobbies of the West and East Pasco Government Centers.

These students in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area came out on top, in their respective grade levels:

  • First Grade: Jayden Chavez, first place; Ezhil Vashisht, second place; and Rishaan Gandhi, third place, all from Odessa Elementary
  • Second Grade: Anderson F., first place; Judy Ahmed, second place; and Elle Patel, third place, all from Countryside Montessori
  • Fourth Grade: Mariska Jarboe, first place, and Adelee Buntin, second place, both from Wesley Chapel Elementary
  • Fifth Grade: Payton Burton, first place, Lake Myrtle Elementary; Jazmin Ayo, second place, San Antonio Elementary; and Gian Figueroa, third place, Wesley Chapel Elementary
  • Honorable Mention “Hope the Dolphin’s Choice” was awarded to Max Weiss, Wesley Chapel Elementary.

To see all the winning entries, visit WaterContest.org.

Published July 13, 2022

Hockey club hosts 22 hours of play

June 21, 2022 By Mike Camunas

It was nonstop hockey and nonstop fun, all for a great cause.

The Tampa Warriors Hockey Club (TWHC) hosted its Hockey Heals 22 event at AdventHealth Center Ice beginning on June 10 and concluding on June 11.

Tampa Warriors Hockey Club poses with the Bloomingdale High School Ice Bulls following a game during the Hockey Heals 22 event at AdventHealth Center Ice, beginning on June 10 and concluding June 11. The event featured 22 hours of continuous hockey play to raise awareness and provide support to veteran suicide prevention, and raised about $15,000. (Courtesy of Chris Scangarello)

The event entailed 22 hours of continuous hockey play to raise awareness and provide support to veteran suicide prevention.

The 22 hours of play was chosen deliberately to draw attention to the fact that since 2009, the average daily number of veteran suicides has stood at 22.

It is estimated the event raised about $15,000, more than $4,000 above last year’s inaugural event.

“It went fantastic — we’re just absolutely thrilled with how it went this year,” said Chris Scangarello, TWHC’s executive director.

“We had exponentially more media coverage, which helped get the word out … and we even made it on the Jumbotron for Game 6 (of the Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Rangers and the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena on Saturday night).”

The event kicked off with a “grand” opening ceremony that Scangarello said “had the stands pretty packed.”

He acknowledged that the crowd did shrink in size during the early morning hours, but added there were still “plenty of loved ones out there supporting those playing hockey at 3 a.m.”

From left to right: Delio Cevera, Lora Lopez, Chris Scangarello and Erik Hautly present a $2,500 check to StopSoldierSuicide.org, during the Hockey Heals 22 event at AdventHealth Center Ice beginning on June 10 and concluding on June 11.

“The turnout was definitely fantastic,” he said.

TWHC has already donated some of the monies raised, including $2,500 to StopSoldierSuicide.org, and a couple of $500 and $300 scholarships to local students, who are dependents of servicemen and plan on working with veterans through social programs.

Scangarello said an event like this is important, not just because it raises money to help others, but also because it draws attention to the issue of  veteran suicide.

The prevailing theory, Scangarello said, is that soldiers and veterans are meant to be strong, not show weakness. However, organizations, and even teams like TWHC, want to help change that perception and to support the notion that it’s OK to ask for help.

“We want to reduce that number from 22 a day. We want veterans to know they have a support network — to end that false stigma that (someone in the military) can’t be weak and can reach out for help,” he said.

He said he also hopes to attract more local charities and nonprofits that are dedicated to veterans and suicide prevention to get involved in next year’s Hockey Heals 22.

For more information on or how to donate to TWHC, visit TampaWarriors.com.

If you or a loved one are having suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 1-800-273-8255.

Published June 22, 2022

Marathon Hockey Tourament

June 7, 2022 By Mike Camunas

On June 10 and June 11, the Tampa Warriors Hockey Club (TWHC) will host a Hockey Heals 22 event at AdventHealth Center Ice, 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The event entails 22 hours of continuous hockey play to raise awareness and provide support to veteran suicide prevention. The 22 hours of play was chosen because, since 2009, 22 has been the daily average of veteran suicides.

TWHC is a 501(c)(3) team organized to operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes, for disabled veterans and first responders.

The event, open to the public, kicks off at 6:30 p.m. on June 10 and concludes at 5 p.m. on June 11. It will include the games, raffles, food and more.

For more information, please email TWHC executive director Chris Scangarello at .

Published on June 8, 2022.

Center Ice to host Isobel Cup

March 22, 2022 By Mike Camunas

Starting March 18 and running through the weekend, AdventHealth Center Ice, at 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, will host the Premier Hockey Federation’s (PHF’s) 2022 Isobel Cup Playoffs. This marks the first time the women’s hockey league will play its championship game outside of its franchise markets.

“This is like the Stanley Cup for this women’s hockey league,” said Gordie Zimmerman, the ice center’s CEO, who has run the facility since it opened more than five years ago. “We’re thrilled to be hosting this with the PHF and look forward to some great hockey over the few days these teams will be here.”

Center Ice is the largest ice sports facility in the southeastern U.S. It has housed events such as the 2017 Four Nations Cup and the 2021 NHL Prospect Showcase.

All six PHF teams will participate in the tournament and all of those games are on ESPN+. The Isobel Cup Championship game is scheduled for March 28 at 9 p.m., and will be shown on ESPN2. Five games will be played on March 25, followed by two semifinals on March 27. Tickets on Eventbrite are only available for games March 25, while the semifinals and championship are sold out.

The six PHF teams are the Buffalo Beauts, Boston Pride (the 2021 Isobel Cup winner), Connecticut Whale, Metropolitan Riveters, Minnesota Whitecaps and Toronto Six. The Isobel Cup is named after Lord Frederick Arthur Stanley’s daughter, Isobel, who shared his love of the game and is known to be one of the first female hockey players in Canada.

2021 offered special moments in local sports (Part Two)

January 4, 2022 By Kevin Weiss

This past year levied countless memories in the local sports scene — from shattered records and career achievements for individuals and teams, to several major events and showcases in the area.

Here is a look back at some of the moments in sports in 2021, from across Pasco and Hillsborough counties, in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

(This is Part Two of a two-part series.)

Bishop McLaughlin baseball coach brings major league pedigree
Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School tabbed a decorated big-leaguer to lead its pedigreed baseball program, back in August.

His name is Rob Ducey, and he spent parts of 13 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) between 1987 to 2001 — playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, California Angels, Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, Philadelphia Phillies and Montreal Expos.

Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School has tabbed former major-leaguer Rob Ducey, pictured, to lead its baseball program. (File)

A left-handed hitting outfielder, Ducey played over 700 games in the majors, posting a .242 batting average, .331 on-base percentage, .396 slugging percentage, with 309 hits, 190 runs, 146 RBIs, 31 home runs and 22 stolen bases.

Ducey later served as a hitting coach in the minor leagues for the New York Yankees, Expos and Phillies; and was a talent scout for the Blue Jays and Tampa Bay Rays.

This baseball lifer status — and one of the very few Canadian big-leaguers — has Ducey enshrined into both the Cambridge Sports Hall of Fame (2006) and the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum (2013).

All told, Ducey has been involved with professional baseball in some shape or form for over 37 years.

And now, the 56-year-old Tarpon Springs resident is taking his varied experiences to the Hurricanes varsity baseball program, which has won five district championships and two regional championships, and has made a pair of state final four appearances

Ducey has clear expectations for the area team he takes over.

“Obviously, I want the pitchers to throw strikes, I want the defenders to handle the baseball, and the hitters to be able to situational hit,” he said, in an exclusive interview with The Laker/Lutz News.

“We may not have the most ability on the field, but you’re going to know that you’ve got to fight, and if we do that every single day we come out and work improves in those areas, then it’ll be a successful year.”

Future NHL stars showcase skills in Wesley Chapel
For a few days, the National Hockey League’s (NHL) next generation of talent skated into Pasco County —  showing puck fans and pro scouts their skills in shot-making, blocking, toughness and teamwork.

AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel was the site of the 2021 NHL Prospect Showcase, held from Sept. 18 through Sept. 21.

Tampa Bay Lightning prospect, goalie Hugo Alnefelt, No. 60, blocks a shot by Carolina Hurricane prospect Blaker Murray, No. 85, during action at the 2021 Lightning Prospect Showcase at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel. (File)

Hosted by the back-to-back Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning, the event also welcomed prospect teams from the Carolina Hurricanes, Nashville Predators and Florida Panthers.

With it being the Lightning’s turn to coordinate the event, the Wesley Chapel-based facility provided an ideal locale.

The 150,000-square-foot complex — the largest ice sports facility in the southeastern United States — is known for having four full-sized ice rinks and a mini-rink housed under one roof.

Aside from sheets of ice, the facility was designed to meet various NHL specifications, all the way down to specific railings and glass around the boards.

The facility also features an on-site sports medicine clinic with an evaluation and treatment room; a fully equipped fitness center with over 2,000 square feet of space; and a 90-yard indoor track turf.

Those features, plus the accessibility to on-site hotels and restaurants, as well as nearby Saddlebrook Resort, were other selling factors for the Lightning and other franchises, officials said.

Each prospect team featured a couple players who’ll likely see time in the NHL this year, which only added to the event’s allure.

Twenty-year-old Panthers goalie Spencer Knight fit that description.

Last year, Knight became the first goaltender to ever have played both in the Stanley Cup playoffs and NCAA (at Boston College) in the same season.

Meantime, Lightning fans received a glimpse of the franchise’s wave of younger talent over the course of the four-day competition.

The Lightning’s 24-man prospect squad finished the tournament as the only team with a perfect 3-0 record. They never trailed in any of their three tournament wins against the Hurricanes, Panthers and Predators.

Zephyrhills football volunteers receive permanent honor
Greg First and Kerry Ryman have witnessed their fair share of Zephyrhills High School football games over the last 40 years or so.

They’ve played a notable role over that time, too, with First providing play-by-play as stadium announcer, and Ryman operating the clock and scoreboard.

In many ways, the friendly pair were synonymous with Zephyrhills High athletics.

Friends and family watch as Kerry Ryman and Greg First receive plaques and recognition for their 40 years of voluntary service providing play-by-play and scoreboard duties for the Zephyrhills High School Bulldogs football team. Here, principal Dr. Christina Stanley makes the honor official, during a pregame ceremony. (File)

Because of those varied efforts, the Zephyrhills High press box at Tom Fisher Field in Bulldog Stadium officially was named the First-Ryman Press Box — during a pregame ceremony in October.

The press box dons the volunteers’ names in large black font with an orange backdrop — the school’s signature colors; Zephyrhills students designed and painted the press box’s new look, as a show of gratitude.

Year in and year out, First and Ryman built their respective Friday nights in football season around Bulldog football.

First had to be locked in on all aspects of the game — taking cues from spotters and properly pronouncing players’ names on a particular offensive or defensive play, all while peppering in various school announcements and sponsorships throughout the game, as his voice was heard by everyone from the stadium’s booming sound speakers.

Ryman, meanwhile, had to pay rapt attention to the game’s head official, monitoring various starts and stoppages in action and other game situations, while simultaneously following specific clock and scoring procedures.

As a part of the action for so long, First and Ryman were in on many highs, some lows and countless unforgettable occurrences. “There’s so many memories over the years that you really could write a book,” First told The Laker/Lutz News.

The two men relinquished their press box volunteering duties this season, after serving for some four decades.

Their press box presence may be gone, but it won’t soon be forgotten.

Freedom High swimmer wins state title
Local athletes and teams performed well at the 2021 FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) State Swimming and Diving Championships.

But it was Freedom High senior Michelle Morgan who registered the best individual showing among all area swimmers.

The Division I University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill verbal commit took gold in the 3A 200-yard individual medley, clocking 2:01.06 to finish ahead of Gainesville High senior Katherine Sammy (2:01.90).

Morgan also won the event last year, posting a 2:00.92.

The Freedom High swimmer collected additional individual hardware in 2021, taking silver in the 3A 500-yard freestyle.

Her time of 4:53.78 trailed only Chiles High senior Stella Watts, who swam in 4:46.86 in the event.

Morgan also was a leg on the Patriots’ medal-earning 200-yard medley and 200-yard freestyle relay teams, which finished fourth and fifth, respectively.

Other Freedom relay members were seniors Carly Joerin and Alexa Valdez Velez, and freshman Alex LaBohn.

Altogether, Morgan helped pace Freedom to arguably its best showing in program history. The girls squad finished fifth at states, won its first-ever regional title, and also claimed district and conference crowns.

“We had a phenomenal season,” Freedom head swim coach John Olewski wrote in an email to The Laker/Lutz News. “Assistant Coach Catherine Wright and I are so proud of the Freedom swimmers and divers. The administration, faculty, staff and students of Freedom High School applaud the Freedom Swim & Dive team members and join them in celebrating their many successes this season.”

Lutz native Kevin Cash claims second-straight manager award
Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash — a Lutz native and Gaither High product —  became the first American League (AL) manager to win Manager of the Year twice in a row, announced by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) in November.

The Freedom High School girls swimming and diving team finished in fifth place at the 3A state championships last month in Stuart. The squad collected seven medals, including the 200-yard medley relay and 200-yard freestyle relay. From left: freshman Alex LaBohn, senior Carly Joerin, senior Michelle Morgan and senior Alexa Valdez Velez. (File)

Also, Cash is only the second manager to win such a BBWAA Manager of the Year Award in back-to-back seasons — joining Bobby Cox, who did so with the National League’s Atlanta Braves in 2004 and 2005.

Cash was recognized for steering the Rays to a franchise-best 100-62 regular season mark in 2021. (However, the Rays playoff dreams ended sooner than expected, losing to the Red Sox in four games in the AL Division Series in October).

He did so under weighty circumstances, with one of the sport’s lowest payrolls, a bevy of injuries (33 different players being placed on the injured list) and a competitive division that featured three other teams that won 90-plus games (Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays).

Besides wins and losses, Cash receives high marks for his ever-changing batting orders, unconventional pitching usage, and ability to maintain a positive culture in the team clubhouse.

Locally, Cash grew up in the Valley Ranch Drive neighborhood across from Lake Park in Lutz, along North Dale Mabry Highway.

His baseball notoriety began as a young boy.

Some three-plus decades ago, he was a 12-year-old second baseman on the 1989 Northside Little League team that reached the 43rd Little League World Series.

He later would star at Gaither High and Florida State University through the mid- and late- 1990s before enjoying an eight-year MLB career as a journeyman catcher.

Published January 05, 2022

Center Ice’s Gordie Zimmermann hailed by local chamber

December 28, 2021 By B.C. Manion

It wasn’t all that long ago that there was no AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

And, if the facility — which has the largest ice rink in the Southeastern United States — had not opened in 2017, the community would have missed out on all sorts of big events and special occasions.

For instance, National Hockey League prospects would not have skated into Pasco County to show fans and pro scouts their skills in shot-making, blocking, toughness and teamwork.

The center, at 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., would not have been used as the training grounds for the gold medal-winning 2018 U.S. Olympic women’s ice hockey team, either.

Shawn Element, No. 83, of Victoriaville, Quebec, was invited by the Lightning to play on the team of prospective players. He battles for possession with Carolina prospect Blake Murray, No. 85, of Canada. (File)

Plus, it wouldn’t house the Women’s Sports Herstory Museum — which is dedicated to female pioneers in hockey.

And, the coveted Stanley Cup never would made a stop there — thus, depriving the young hockey players who had the chance to see it, of that thrilling and inspirational experience.

The list of big events and special moments at the ice center goes on and on.

And, it was Gordie Zimmermann, the facility’s owner manager partner, who had the vision for Center Ice, and its enormous possibilities.

He received recognition for the center’s contributions to the economy and quality of life in Wesley Chapel, during the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s Dec. 7 breakfast meeting.

Michael Berthelette, the chamber’s outgoing chairman, singled out Zimmermann by presenting him with the Chairman’s Award for 2021, during the meeting at the Porter Campus of Pasco-Hernando State College.

“I really took some time to really think about who I wanted to honor with my chairman’s award for 2021,” Berthelette told those gathered.

He said Zimmermann demonstrated that the ice center could achieve its goals, despite the challenges.

He told Zimmermann the award is “in recognition for your contributions toward a broad range of economic development activities that demonstrate substantial investment in our community, your economic development efforts have required agile planning and a comprehensive approach to implement solutions that have made the North Tampa Bay community a more attractive place to live, work and play.”

Zimmermann was surprised by the honor.

He told the crowd that he thought he was just joining some of his staff for breakfast at the chamber meeting.

In accepting the award, Zimmermann said: “You guys have been awesome. It’s been a great community.

“I just want to thank the whole community, all of the businesses, the educational systems, my staff — unbelievable staff.

“The chamber has been great. I just really appreciate it. I didn’t expect this, today,” Zimmermann said.

Hope Kennedy, president and CEO of the chamber, recalled the initial reaction when chamber leaders heard about the plans for the ice center.

“We all looked out there and saw a mud swamp. So, we were all a little bit nervous about this vision and dream,” Kennedy said.

“But to see it all happen — and what it has done for our community. It has put Wesley Chapel not only on the regional map, (but) the international map.

“So, Gordie, I’m very proud to stand by you and your whole team that you’ve built there.

“It’s exciting,” Kennedy said.

Then, as the chamber’s top executive, Kennedy also had the opportunity to present a special award.

In choosing a recipient for the President and CEO’s Award, Kennedy said she always seeks “to recognize an unsung hero that goes above and beyond.”

She then detailed some of the ways that this year’s honoree has been instrumental to the chamber’s success.

“He has added tables. He has taken away tables. He has put out cones for me. He’s lugged in food for me,” Kennedy said, adding that he’s also kept coffee from spilling all over the place.

Then, turning to the recipient — who did not know that he’d been selected — she said: “You have done so much for me and this organization over the last five years. I couldn’t think of anybody better to present this award to, than to you, Duane Powell.”

The campus facilities manager for PHSC was obviously stunned — but also delighted — by the news.

Like Zimmermann, Powell also thought he was just coming to the meeting for breakfast, said Kevin O’ Farrell, provost of PHSC’s Porter Campus.

Published December 29, 2021

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08/17/2022 – Bat seminar

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08/18/2022 – ZooTampa Story Time

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present “Story Time with ZooTampa: Senses in Nature” on Aug. 18 at 10 a.m., for ages 3 to 6, online. The program will use stories, action rhymes, songs and interactive activities to combine an animal experience with early literacy skills, to encourage reading readiness and social interaction. Register online through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org. … [Read More...] about 08/18/2022 – ZooTampa Story Time

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