Recycling project benefits the homeless
LAND O’ LAKES – The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club meets once a month at the Lutz Community Center for a craft day filled with creativity and purpose.
Among the many programs members support is the ongoing creation of sleeping mats for the homeless. This project has been close to members’ hearts for the past 11 years.
These durable mats are made by recycling plastic grocery bags. The ladies carefully fold and cut the bags, knotting the pieces together to make plarn (plastic yarn). Several members then crochet the mats from this plarn.
Each mat takes approximately 400 grocery bags and 12 hours to complete.
Once finished, the mats are donated to The Well, a 501c3 organization in Tampa that assists and supports individuals experiencing homelessness.
Through this project, the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club not only helps protect the environment by recycling plastic but also brings comfort and care to those in need.
War hero turning 100 years old
LAND O’ LAKES – Richard Hall, a World War II and Korean War veteran, will be turning 100 years old on Oct. 29. The family is planning a birthday party at his granddaughter’s home in Odessa.
The Pittsburgh native entered the Navy out of high school in 1943, when WWII was well underway. The U.S. entered the war following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. He was a naval aviator serving in WWII. Hall later served as a test pilot and instructor in the Korean War.
He retired as a lieutenant commander in 1963 after more than 20 years of service. He became a stockbroker for the next 10 years and a small business owner after that.
Since retiring in 1990, he has enjoyed playing golf and bridge as well as spending time with family.
Hall was married to his childhood sweetheart, Dorothy, for 68 years until her death in 2015. They have three daughters, seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.
Pasco closing Hudson Library for remodeling
HUDSON – Hudson Regional Library will get a complete floor-to-ceiling renovation.
Work is set to begin after the library’s closing Nov. 1.
Renovations are funded by the Pasco Board of County Commissioners as part of the 2025-26 capital budget.
Work includes repairing roof leaks, upgrading lighting and plumbing, reimagining the interior, dedicating spaces for adults, teens and children, expanding the makerspace and creating an art display area featuring local artists.
“It’s about creating a modern, welcoming library that connects the Hudson community to knowledge, creativity and one another for years to come,” Libraries Director Sean McGarvey said.
Patrons can check out books and materials at all other branches throughout the county, including the newly renovated Regency Park Library. They can also access the digital library 24/7 at pascolibraries.org.
New Port Richey presents Veterans Day Parade
NEW PORT RICHEY – The City of New Port Richey invites the community to come together in celebration and gratitude for the brave men and women who served our country in uniform at the Veterans Day Parade.
The parade will feature local veterans, active military units, marching bands, community organizations, and civic groups at 5 p.m. Nov. 11 around Orange Lake near Sims Park.
“This event is an important opportunity for our community to express appreciation for our veterans and their families,” Mayor Chopper Davis said. “Their courage and service have shaped our nation, and we are proud to honor them here in New Port Richey.”
Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to wear red, white and blue, and show their support along the parade route.
Nominate a woman for hall of fame
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY – The Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women is accepting nominations through Nov. 13 for the 2026 Hillsborough County Women’s Hall of Fame.
Created in 2011, the program celebrates the achievements of Hillsborough County women who have made significant contributions in areas such as social services, education, philanthropy, the military and public service to improve the lives of residents.
The honor is given to three recipients each year.
There have been 41 women recognized since the program started more than 10 years ago, including former University of South Florida president Judy Genshaft, Civil Rights advocate Mary Alice Dorsett and philanthropic leader Carol Morsani.
Nomination forms are available at HCFL.gov/WHOF.
Bilirakis reacts to Middle East peace deal
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Gus Bilirakis, co-chair of the Congressional Hellenic Israel Alliance and the International Religious Freedom Caucus, released the following statement Oct. 13 in response to the peace agreement reached in the Middle East:
“I wholeheartedly applaud this landmark agreement, which represents a major step forward for peace, security and religious freedom in the region. This achievement would not have been possible without the strong leadership of President Trump along with the dedicated diplomacy of Secretary of State Rubio. Their tireless efforts brought both sides to the table and helped deliver a breakthrough that many thought impossible. The return of hostages to their families is especially moving and long overdue – a powerful reminder of what is at stake and what can be achieved through determined engagement. My hope and prayer is that this agreement marks a true turning point, one that reaffirms the value of American leadership on the global stage and sets the foundation for a more stable and peaceful future. I remain committed to working with our allies to ensure the successful implementation of this accord and to advance the broader vision of lasting peace and mutual respect it represents.”
