The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Search Results for: golden grants

Chalk Talk (7/9/25): McDonald’s grants fuel school programs

By

McDonald’s Golden Grants fuel education programs

TAMPA – Applications are open for the 2025 McDonald’s Golden Grants program. 

McDonald’s owner/operators will be selecting programs that fuel the imagination, education and growth of students in Central Florida, including Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Hillsborough counties.

The grant program has awarded $400,000 in its first four years. This year, grants will be awarded in the amounts of $10,000, $5,000, $2,500 and $1,000 based on creativity and hands-on application of projects. 

Qualifying activities include after-school, arts, community service, education, empowerment, mentorship, sports and technology.

Recipients will be announced in November. 

Apply through Oct. 10 at https://mcdgoldengrants.com/florida/.

 

Student Achievements

  • Jillian Abarca, of Odessa, made the spring dean’s list at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia for earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
  • David Alejandro, of Land O’ Lakes, made the dean’s honor roll at Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas for earning a GPA of 3.6 or higher. 
  • Alexa J. Astete, of Tampa, made the spring dean’s list at Saint Michael’s College in Colchester, Vermont for earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher. 
  • Anthony Becht, of Wesley Chapel, made the spring dean’s list at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa for earning a GPA from 3.5 to 4.0. Becht majors in communication studies.
  • Alyssa Bongiovann,i of Lutz, made the spring honor roll at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee fo earning a GPA of 3.85 or higher. 
  • Caitlyn Culpepper, of Odessa, made the spring chancellor’s honor roll at University of Mississippi for earning a GPA from 3.75 to 4.0. Culpepper majors in biochemistry.
  • Lyla Gardner, of Lutz, made the spring dean’s honor roll at University of Mississippi for earning a GPA from 3.5 to 3.74. Gardner majors in allied health studies
  • Isabella Gurau, of Dade City, made the spring dean’s list at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa for earning a GPA from 3.5 to 4.0. Gurau majors in animal science.
  • Jessica Loyal, of Egypt Lake, graduated with a degree from Des Moines Area Community College in Des Moines, Iowa. Loyal studied homeland security.
  • Trevor Mayberry, of Odessa, made the spring president’s list at Mississippi State for earning a GPA of 3.8 or higher. 
  • JoAna Mucklow, of Odessa, made the spring chancellor’s honor roll at University of Mississippi for earning a GPA from 3.75 to 4.0. Mucklow majors in finance. 
  • Gennaro Scarfogliero, of Odessa, ,made the spring dean’s list at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia for earning a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
  • Brady Stauffer, of Land O’ Lakes, made the spring semester dean’s list at Des Moines Area Community College in Des Moines, Iowa for earning a GPA from 3.5 to 3.99. Stauffer studies exercise science.
  • Adia Symmonds, of Lutz, made the spring president’s list at Mississippi State for earning a GPA of 3.8 or higher. 
  • Kelli White, of Odessa, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity from SUNY Canton in Canton, New York.

 

Quick Hits

  • Pasco County Schools is registering people through July 22 for its Citizens’ Academy, an eight-session program that shows what goes on at the district. 
  • Fred K. Marchman Technical College students Nina Austin and Dallas Raymond were among medalists at the National SkillsUSA Championships, according to Pasco County Schools.
  • Victory High Schools is looking for players and sponsors for its annual charity golf tournament Nov. 17 at  Innisbrook Resort & Golf Club in Palm Harbor. 

 

Chalk Talk 08/28/2024

By

Performing arts career fair

The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory will host its fifth annual Performing Arts College and Career Fair on Sept. 29 with workshops from 9 a.m. to noon and a meet-and-greet with college representatives from noon to 3 p.m.

A crowd of students and families visit with colleges at a previous career fair at the Straz Center. (Courtesy of Leslie Farrell/Farrell Communications)

The fair is designed for students interested in pursuing a college degree and/or career in dance, music or theater.

Workshops are accessible with a 2024 Performing Arts College & Career Fair Workshop Pass, available for $20 online (see link below). The pass will provide student admission to opportunities presented by visiting colleges and faculty. Parents may observe student workshops or attend parent-centric workshops with the purchase of an additional wristband.

All attendees, including guardians and guests, must register online at PatelConservatory.asapconnected.com/#CourseGroupID=45238.

National scholars

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced 91 scholarships awarded through the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program, one of the department’s efforts to develop the next generation of diverse food and agriculture professionals, according to a news release.

The national scholars program is a partnership between the USDA and the 19 historically Black land-grant universities that were established under the Second Morrill Act of 1890 and is administered by the USDA’s Office of Partnerships and Public Engagement (OPPE), the release says.

The scholars took part in an orientation and a swearing-in ceremony at USDA headquarters in Washington D.C.

“The USDA 1890 National Scholars Program is an important pathway for careers in agriculture, nutrition, food, development – and at USDA,” said OPPE Director Lisa Ramirez in the release.

Through the program, the USDA partners with 1890 universities to provide scholarship recipients with full tuition, fees, books, and room and board. Recipients must attend one of the 1890 universities and pursue degrees in agriculture, food, natural resource sciences, or related academic disciplines. The 91 recipients will be placed at USDA agencies and offices.

The scholarship program is available to high school seniors entering their freshman year of college, as well as rising college sophomores and juniors.

For more information, visit www.USDA.gov.

Student achievements

  • Joshua Carr, Dade City: Master of Business Administration, University of Texas at Tyler
  • Owen James, Lutz: Dean’s List, Hartwick College, New York
  • Abby Suarez, Lutz: Intern, Wacker Chemical Company, Charleston, Tennessee. Suarez is pursuing a degree in environmental science with minors in sustainability and Spanish at the University of Florida.
  • Thea Wangsness, Dade City: Dean’s List, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Classroom equipment donated

AdventHealth Heart of Florida presented 24 world globes, recess equipment and school supplies to the teachers at Bethune Academy in Haines City. Unity in the Community reached out about the need teachers had for classroom equipment, wall maps, globes, recess equipment and a variety of other items.

AdventHealth Heart of Florida COO Julie Hess (fourth from left) presented the donations to Bethune Academy teachers, staff and Principal Robin Hewitt (second from right).
(Courtesy of AdventHealth)

“We were more than happy to help by purchasing some of the items on their list. We donated recess equipment and world globes. The hula hoops, jump ropes and other games align with AdventHealth’s whole-person care approach — and we love the fact that students will be able to go outside and exercise and participate in group events and just have fun. We also know that exercising and being outdoors can reduce stress and help with your mental health,” said Julie Hess, chief operating officer for AdventHealth Heart of Florida, in a news release.

Hess also explained the reason behind buying the globes: AdventHealth, a non-for-profit, faith-based hospital system, sponsors and participates in mission projects around the globe.

AdventHealth team members also donated school supplies including crayons, pencils, folders and notebook paper.

LPN program ranked

Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) recently was ranked as the best Licensed Practical Nurse program in Florida, both online and on campus, by NursingProcess.org. Out of more than 160 programs approved by the Florida Board of Nursing, PHSC ranked first place, according to a news release.

Nursing Process uses a system that takes factors such as enrollment rate, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, National Council Licensure Examination – Practical Nurse pass rates, and affordability into account when ranking the programs.

The organization is comprised of a team of health care professionals who are dedicated to navigating information around nursing education and careers, focusing on decreasing the gap in easily accessible expert-driven information, the release says.

For more information, visit PHSC.edu/academics/porgrams/health/practical-nurse.

Subaru donates for education

Subaru of Wesley Chapel recently made a donation of $15,000 and 25 school supply kits to Pasco County Schools’ Thomas E. Weightman Middle School. The contribution, made in partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org as part of the Subaru Loves Learning initiative, will benefit more than 1,240 students by providing essential supplies to help ensure a successful school year, according to a news release.

The funds allow teachers to buy much-needed supplies for their classrooms, easing the financial burden that many educators face, aligning with the school’s ongoing efforts to create a positive and effective learning environment for all students.

For more about the Subaru initiative, visit Subaru.com/learning, or follow #SubaruLovesLearning on social media.

Scholarship opportunity

Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful is offering a scholarship to high school seniors or college students who have a passion for the environment.

Those interested can apply for the scholarship by completing volunteer hours through cleanups, tree plantings or beautification projects.

Application deadline is Sept. 23. Visit Keep Tampa Bay Beautiful on Facebook and click the link in its bio for more information.

Golden Grants program

Applications are now open for the 2024 McDonald’s Golden Grants program.

McDonald’s owner/operators across South Carolina, Georgia and Florida will be selecting deserving educators, nonprofit organizations, and the like, who represent programs that fuel the imagination, education and growth of students, as recipients of a McDonald’s Golden Grant, according to a news release. The program is entering its fourth year and has awarded $300,000 in the first three years.

This year, grants will be awarded in the amounts of $10,000, $5,000, $2,500 and $1,000 based on creativity and hands-on application of projects.

Qualifying activities include arts programs, education initiatives, mentorship and empowerment programs, after-school programs, community service, sports activities and technology.

Educators, programs and organizations serving kindergarten through 12th grade can apply.

Applications close Oct. 13. Recipients will be announced in November.

For more information and to apply, visit mcdgoldengrants.com/florida.

Two Good Soles drive underway

The ninth annual Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive is underway, through Oct. 23, with Pasco County government and constitutional offices working together to collect footwear for kids in Pasco County Schools.

Types of shoes and socks to consider donating include:

  • Children’s shoes sizes 9 and up
  • Adult shoes in all sizes
  • Socks in all sizes (neutral colors)
  • Closed-toe shoes, no flip-flops

In 2023, more than 3,000 pairs of shoes and nearly 6,000 pairs of socks were collected.

Donations can be dropped in collection boxes at Pasco County Government locations and the Pasco County clerk & comptroller, property appraiser and tax collector offices.

All new shoes and socks will be donated to Pasco County Schools at the end of October.

Video game design contest

The U.S. National Science Foundation announced the NSF Game Maker Awards “Life in 2010” competition for kindergarten through 12th grade students, to commemorate the agency’s 75th anniversary milestone.

Students are invited to create video games that imagine life 75 years from now (in the year 2100) and compete to win up to $7,500 in various prize categories. Their games will be featured in NSF’s 75th anniversary activities. Additional prizes can go to mentors, teachers or parents/guardians who aid teams in application and game development, according to a news release.

The students are challenged to dive into game design and STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) to think critically and creatively about the future and contribute unique perspectives to the ongoing dialogue about our planet’s trajectory.

The competition encourages students to explore NSF-supported research areas, including sustainable ecosystems, futuristic cities and advanced medical technology.

Award winners will be invited to an in-person event to showcase their games.

Deadline for submission is 5 p.m., Jan. 31. Details and more information can be found at new.nsf.gov/75years/game-maker-awards.

Chalk Talk 09/06/2023

By

(Courtesy of Pasco Sheriff’s Office)

School zones are everyone’s responsibility
Roads, sidewalks and pathways experience more traffic during the school year and require additional caution. Keeping students, families and schools protected is everyone’s responsibility, according to a Pasco Sheriff’s Office (PSO) news release.

The PSO shares these tips to keep school zones, where students travel to and from school, safe:

  • Eliminate distractions when driving, such as phones.
  • Take time to learn school bus stop laws to know how to properly obey their lights and signs.
  • Follow posted speed limits, which are reduced in school zones, and obey all traffic laws and directions.
  • Pedestrians and bike riders must follow the rules of the road, including obeying safety signals and crossing at crosswalks, where drivers expect pedestrians to cross.

It is important to slow down and pay attention no matter how you travel, to help keep students, families, neighborhoods and communities safe.

Homeschool Morning
The Tarpon Springs Aquarium, 1722 N. Pinellas Ave., in Tarpon Springs, will host a Homeschool Morning: Backyard Florida Adventure on Sept. 7 and Sept. 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., for kindergarten through fifth grade. The event will feature hands-on activities and live animals. The cost is $10 per person (ages 2 and older); $5 per annual passholder (includes day pass admission). For information, visit Tarpon Springs Aquarium on Facebook.

Student achievement
Colin Frederick Gaynor, of Odessa, earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Business.

YEA! Awards
Hillsborough County has opened nominations for its Youth Excellence and Achievement Awards (YEA! Awards) now through 9 a.m., Sept. 18.

Nominations can be submitted for both middle and high school students in each of these categories:

  • Leadership — demonstrating positive impact on others in an ongoing endeavor, such as sports, academics or the arts
  • Success Despite Difficult Odds — overcoming tremendous personal difficulty to attain success and make a positive impact on others
  • Volunteer or Community Service — allocating discretionary time to help others or complete a project that has improved the community

Students honored show initiative, innovation, and a commitment to themselves and others, while pursuing excellence in a leadership capacity. This can be demonstrated in academics, community service, athletics, performing arts, conservation, or other areas.

Submissions will be reviewed by the Hillsborough County Commission on the Status of Women.

The YEA! Awards will be presented by the Board of County Commissioners in June.

Nomination forms can be found online at HCFLGov.net/YEA.

Performing Arts Series
Tickets are now on sale for the Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation Inc.’s 2023-2024 Performing Arts Series. All shows are at 7 p.m., at the PHSC Performing Arts Center, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey. The concert line-up includes:

  • Dec. 1, The Atlantic City Boys
  • Jan. 19, She Will Rock You!
  • Feb. 23, The Olivia Show
  • March 15, The Beatle Maniacs
  • April 5, The Majesty of Rock

Tickets are $30 to $35. Season tickets are automatically discounted 15%. Groups of 10 or more can use code 15OFF. To purchase tickets, visit Tix.com/ticket-sales/phsc/1015. For information, contact Jen Ferguson at 727-816-3431 or .

Shoes & Socks Drive
The eighth annual Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive is underway with Pasco County Government and Constitutional offices working together to collect footwear for kids in Pasco County Schools.

“It’s not just about providing a new pair of shoes and socks to each child in need,” said Paula Baracaldo, Pasco County support services director, in a news release. “It’s about giving them a sense of dignity and security. It’s about enabling Pasco County schoolchildren to focus on things other than basic needs,” said Baracaldo.

The types of new shoes and socks that are needed include:

  • Children’s shoe sizes 9 and up
  • Adult shoes in all sizes
  • Socks in all sizes/neutral colors
  • Closed-toe shoes only/no flip-flops

Donations can be dropped off in collection boxes at Pasco County Government locations and the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller, Property Appraiser, and Tax Collector offices (visit PascoTaxes.com). All new shoes and socks will be donated to Pasco County Schools at the end of October.

Grant applications open
Applications are now open for the 2023 McDonald’s Golden Grants program. McDonald’s owner/operators across Florida, southeast Georgia and southeast South Carolina will select educators, nonprofit organizations, and the like, who represent programs that fuel the imagination, education and growth of students, as recipients of a grant.

This year, 27 Golden Grants will be awarded in the following amounts based on creativity and hands-on application of projects:

  • Three grants in the amount of $10,000
  • Seven grants, $5,000
  • 12 grants, $2,500
  • Five grants, $1,000

Qualifying activities include arts programs, education initiatives, mentorship and empowerment programs, after-school programs, community service, sports activities, and technology.

To apply, visit GoldenGrantsFl.com through Sept. 15. Winners will be announced on Oct. 12.

School Fishing Club
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s 2023-2024 School Fishing Club Program is now open for registration.

This annual educational program focuses on teaching youth anglers about best fishing practices to help ensure the future of fishing in Florida.

To register, club sponsors need to apply for a Florida R3 Fishing Grant, which is funded by the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network, Coastal Conservation Association, and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida. 

The grant will award up to 50 school fishing clubs or teams $500 each to assist with club expenses, such as the purchase of fishing licenses or gear for participants.

The grant application period is open until Sept. 15, but grant funding is not required to participate in the fishing club program.

To be considered for the grant, school fishing clubs or teams must have a minimum of five members and be represented by a school faculty member or parent.

Each participating club will be provided with program curriculum and educational materials. The curriculum consists of lessons and activities on ethical angling, conservation, Florida’s aquatic habitats, basic fishing gear, and general fishing concepts, applicable to both fresh and saltwater fishing.

Additionally, at least one conservation project activity must be completed each school year and is an opportunity for clubs to earn points for a chance to win prizes.

Applications can be found online at MyFWC.com/SFC, by scrolling down to “Florida’s R3 Fishing Grant Program.” The deadline for submitting applications is Sept. 15.

Chalk Talk 08/16/2023

By

Edwin Narain (Courtesy of Saint Leo University)

New Saint Leo board leadership
The Saint Leo University Board of Trustees announced the appointment of three Tampa Bay area leaders to its executive team, effective July 1. Former Florida legislator Edwin Narain, vice president of external and legislative affairs for AT&T Florida, will served as chair; Noel Boeke, partner with Holland & Knight, will serve as vice chair; and Iskra Sbraccia, Citi compliance sanctions director and global head of CitiScreening content management, will serve as secretary.

Volunteer recruitment
The Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills, will host a Teen Volunteer Recruitment Session on Aug. 23 at 2:30 p.m., for students who may need volunteer hours for scholarships.

Teen volunteers will help with upcoming events by preparing and assisting with children’s programs. Members also are being sought to form a teen advisory board to help plan and execute teen programs. All volunteers must submit an application and personal injury waiver, which will be provided at the meeting. Applicants will need to provide their social security number, too.

Pizza will be served. Register for the session by calling 813-780-0064.

Victory High has successful summer
Victory High, a nonprofit private school in Pasco County for teens in recovery from substance-use disorders or co-occurring disorders, reported a successful “Sober Summer,” according to a school email.

The facility provided: 38 hours of individual counseling; 40 hours of academic classes passed; 12 hours of group therapy; 12 hours of visual arts classes; nine hours of trauma informed yoga; and five field trips.

A lifetime of connections was made for the 144 participants that attended.

(Courtesy of Sky Strategic Marketing)

Ice Cold Air gives back in a big way
For the 16th consecutive year, Ice Cold Air franchisees in Tampa Bay joined together to host a Back to School Supplies Drive and accompanying Back to School Bashes. This year, through the end of July, six franchise locations offered free oil changes in exchange for $20 worth of school supplies donated. It also gave away 50 backpacks with school supplies to pre-registered families. From left: Ashley Butler, Adrien Julious-Butler, Sarah Price, Keith Cox and Brittany Taggett.

School Fishing Club
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s 2023-2024 School Fishing Club Program is now open for registration.

This annual educational program focuses on teaching youth anglers about best fishing practices to help ensure the future of fishing in Florida.

To register, club sponsors need to apply for a Florida R3 Fishing Grant, which is funded by the Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network, Coastal Conservation Association, and the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida. 

The grant will award up to 50 school fishing clubs or teams $500 each to assist with club expenses, such as the purchase of fishing licenses or gear for participants.

The grant application period is open until Sept. 15, but grant funding is not required to participate in the fishing club program.

To be considered for the grant, school fishing clubs or teams must have a minimum of five members and be represented by a school faculty member or parent.

Each participating club will be provided with program curriculum and educational materials. The curriculum consists of lessons and activities on ethical angling, conservation, Florida’s aquatic habitats, basic fishing gear, and general fishing concepts, applicable to both fresh and saltwater fishing.

Additionally, at least one conservation project activity must be completed each school year and is an opportunity for clubs to earn points for a chance to win prizes.

Applications can be found online at MyFWC.com/SFC, by scrolling down to “Florida’s R3 Fishing Grant Program.” The deadline for submitting applications is Sept. 15.

Grant applications open
Applications are now open for the 2023 McDonald’s Golden Grants program. 

McDonald’s owner/operators across Florida, southeast Georgia and southeast South Carolina will select educators, nonprofit organizations, and the like, who represent programs that fuel the imagination, education and growth of students, as recipients of a grant.

This year, 27 Golden Grants will be awarded in the following amounts based on creativity and hands-on application of projects:

  • Three grants in the amount of $10,000
  • Seven grants, $5,000
  • 12 grants, $2,500
  • Five grants, $1,000

Qualifying activities include arts programs, education initiatives, mentorship and empowerment programs, after-school programs, community service, sports activities, and technology.

To apply, visit GoldenGrantsFl.com through Sept. 15. Winners will be announced on Oct. 12.

Shoes & Socks Drive
The eighth annual Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive is underway with Pasco County Government and Constitutional offices working together to collect footwear for kids in Pasco County Schools.

“It’s not just about providing a new pair of shoes and socks to each child in need,” said Paula Baracaldo, Pasco County support services director, in a news release. “It’s about giving them a sense of dignity and security. It’s about enabling Pasco County schoolchildren to focus on things other than basic needs,” said Baracaldo.

The types of new shoes and socks that are needed include:

  • Children’s shoe sizes 9 and up
  • Adult shoes in all sizes
  • Socks in all sizes/neutral colors
  • Closed-toe shoes only/no flip-flops

Donations can be dropped off in collection boxes at Pasco County Government locations and the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller, Property Appraiser, and Tax Collector offices (visit PascoTaxes.com).

All new shoes and socks will be donated to Pasco County Schools at the end of October.

Essay scholarship winners
Negative Population Growth (NPG) leaders announced 18 student winners in its annual Essay Scholarship Contest. Awards ranged from $5,000 to $1,000, to help with a student’s tuition and other expenses.

Graduate students competed for the scholarship awards by writing an original 750-word to 1,000-word essay addressing the provided prompt.

Students were asked to consider a future in the U.S. with an additional 70 million people and to discuss the aspect of their lives that would be most affected by the increase in human population.

They also were asked to include their thoughts on whether or not the U.S. government should encourage policies designed to reduce population growth to a more sustainable level.

High school seniors and undergraduate students competed for the awards by writing an original 450-word to 600-word essay on considering what life in the U.S. would be like with 70 additional people over the course of 40 years and to describe three aspects of their lives that would be most affected by the growth.

NPG is a national nonprofit membership organization dedicated to educating the American public and political leaders regarding the damaging effects of population growth. The organization has worked with teachers nationwide to help bring facts about population to American classrooms.

For more information, visit NPG.org, follow on Facebook @NegativePopulationGrowth or on Twitter @npg.org.

Student achievements

  • Liam Andrews, Lutz: Dean’s List, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
  • Charles Clerc, Odessa: Dean’s List, University of Maryland Global Campus, Adelphi, Maryland
  • Brent Knox, Lutz: Graduate Certificate in Cybersecurity, University of North Georgia, Dahlonega

Business Digest (10/04/24): Seats available on jobs committee

By

Seats available on Jobs & Economic Opportunities Committee

PASCO COUNTY – The Jobs and Economic Opportunities Committee, which oversees the use of the Jobs and Economic Opportunities Trust Fund portion of Penny for Pasco, is looking for new volunteers.

Responsibilities of members include ensuring Penny for Pasco spending meets the requirements to promote projects creating new jobs and economic growth.  

There are two open seats: one available to any Pasco County resident and the other specifically designated for someone in the finance or banking industry.  

Applications are being accepted through Dec. 23. Return your application and resume to .

The committee consists of up to nine members, appointed by county commissioners. Members represent diverse knowledge and expertise from the following areas: agriculture, finance/banking, manufacturing, real estate and other private industries.

The committee meets at least quarterly and presents annual updates to commissioners.  Members will serve a two-year term, from March 2025 to March 2027.

 

Central Florida McDonald’s awards $33,000 to schools, nonprofits

Nine Central Florida educational organizations were selected as recipients of a 2024 McDonald’s Golden Grant. 

A total of $33,000 has been allocated to organizations, positively impacting the lives of hundreds of area children.

“We feel very honored we are able to help out organizations in our area,” said Kristina Ragatz, McDonald’s owner/operator. “On behalf of Central Florida owner/operators, we are honored to be a part of such tight-knit communities supporting children who need it most.”

Grants were awarded based on creativity, innovation, need and hands-on application of projects. Recipients were: 

  • $10,000 – Forever Outreach (Winter Haven).
  • $5,000 – Community Food Pantry (Tampa).
  • $5,000 – Steps Foundation (Saint Cloud).
  • $5,000 – Ayr’Reka’s Angels (Tampa).
  • $2,500 – FRC Team 801 Horsepower (Merritt Island).
  • $2,500 – Speak Up: Let’s Talk About Mental Health (Tarpon Springs).
  • $1,000 – Guardian Angels of SW Florida (Palmetto).
  • $1,000 – eSTEAMed Learning (Maitland).
  • $1,000 – UF/IFAS Extension Lake County (Tavares).

 

Greater Pasco Chamber happenings

NEW PORT RICHEY – The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will hold a Medical Roundtable, ribbon cutting, brochure exchange and after-hours networking over the next several days. 

  • Adam Shoemaker facilitates the monthly Medical Roundtable from 8 to 9 a.m. Dec. 5 at Holiday Inn Express
    & Suites, 2125 Corporate Center Drive, Trinity. Register in advance. 
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of ElderClub Port Richey with a ribbon cutting from 3 to 7 p.m. Dec. 6 at 9735 U.S. 19, Port Richey. 
  • Members network during the Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 12 at New Beginnings, 18935 Michigan Lane, Spring Hill. 
  • Young professionals engage in some after hour networking during a social from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 13 at LaneGlo South, 8631 Old County Road 54, New Port Richey. 

Visit greaterpasco.com for details about the chamber and events. 

 

North Tampa Bay Chamber happenings

LAND O’ LAKES – The North Tampa Bay Chamber will cut some ribbons in celebration of member achievements in the coming days. 

  • Members celebrate the grand opening of 3Natives Wesley Chapel with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 5 at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel.
  • Members hold a ribbon cutting to celebrate Shields Accounting Services LLC from 4 to 6 p.m. Dec. 5 at the chamber’s Wiregrass Mall location, 28329 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. 

Visit northtampabaychamber.com for details about the chamber and events. 

 

FEMA approves $1B for Florida homeowners, renters
TALLAHASSEE – FEMA has approved more than $1 billion in federal disaster assistance to help homeowners and renters recover from recent hurricanes. 

This includes $449.2 million for Hurricane Milton, $516.6 million for Hurricane Helene and $49.8 million for Hurricane Debby.

Under FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, homeowners and renters affected by Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby may be eligible for assistance for basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured or underinsured disaster-caused expenses.

Floridians can still apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by using the FEMA App. You may also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. 

 

Florida awards bonuses for law enforcement recruits

TALLAHASSEE – Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that Florida is making 300 new bonus awards to Law Enforcement Officers and has reached a milestone of 6,400 bonuses awarded to new law enforcement recruits through the Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program. 

The latest 300 bonuses were awarded to officers serving in counties impacted by Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton. This first-of-its-kind initiative, launched in 2022, constitutes a one-time, $5,000 bonus – after taxes – to newly employed officers in the state.

 

Quick Hits

  • Zachery Gibson and Carlos Lugo, of Weichert, Realtors – Florida Tropics, completed the Fast Track training program, according to Weichert Real Estate Affiliates. The training helps bring new and existing Weichert-affiliated agents up to speed on the latest information, resources and technology available to real estate professionals.

 

More police needed, as city grows

By

Dade City Police Lt. Robert Tungate was a guest speaker at The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce business breakfast meeting, held last month at Golden Corral in Zephyrhills.

Among his talking points during the Sept. 21 gathering was how the local law enforcement agency is managing the municipality’s impending residential and commercial growth and development.

About 6,500 new rooftops and several commercial properties have been approved to be built over the next two decades within city limits.

Dade City Police Lieutenant Robert Tungate was a guest speaker during a Sept. 21 business breakfast meeting hosted by The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, at Golden Corral in Zephyrhills. (Courtesy of City of Dade City)

Homes soon will be popping up across all parts of the city, Tungate said, pointing to scheduled land clearings along Clinton Avenue and U.S. 301, St. Joe Road, and Roberts Road, among other areas.

With that, the local police official predicted the city’s population of some 7,000 residents will “probably” triple within the next five to eight years, and added, “that’s not counting all the amount of traffic that comes in every day to work, especially if we get all these new developments going on.”

“We’re going to swell during the daytime, and then when everybody goes home, we’re, of course, going to have all these rooftops,” Tungate said. “The houses mean more calls for police services.”

As the city balloons, so will its local police department.

The Dade City Police Department presently has five open positions, Tungate said.

One vacancy is due to a retirement, while the other four are newly funded positions in advance of the ensuing growth.

Other changes on tap include the launch of a Chaplain Corps program, to offer advice, counseling and assistance to police employees, particularly in times of crisis and otherwise.

At full strength, the city has budgeted for 27 full-time sworn officers for fiscal year 2021-2022.

This is a number the department hasn’t seen in some time, Tungate said.

To fill these positions, the agency is recruiting local colleges and universities wanting to land “top of the tier” applicants and hires, Tungate said.

To that end, Tungate shared the ongoing battle of being competitive and on par with other Tampa Bay area law enforcement agencies in not only recruiting qualified officers, but preventing those from bolting for larger, more prestigious agencies once they gain some field experience.

“This new generation of cops coming in, they’re all saying, ‘What’s in it for me?’ It’s not like the old days where people get a job and they stay there,” explained Tungate.

“These guys are coming in, saying, ‘Hmm, this (agency’s) better, that (agency’s) better,’ for whatever the reason. Sometimes, it’s pay. Not always. Sometimes, it’s working next to a best friend, it doesn’t matter…”

Meanwhile, Tungate thanked the Dade City Commission and Dade City Manager Leslie Porter (who was among dozens in attendance during the meeting) for proactively directing more resources to the police department of late.

“The city manager has done a great job to recognize the need for our police department,” said Tungate. “If we keep growing like we’re growing, the city commission and city manager recognizes that we’re going to grow again.”

This has included increased wages and benefits for patrol officers, detectives and sergeants through new collective bargaining agreements between the city and the West Central Florida Police Benevolent Association, on behalf of the local law enforcement agency.

Moreover, city leaders recently approved increased public safety impact fees on new single family homes (now $449, up 375% from the prior $94) and retail units (now $462 per 1,000 square feet, up 52% from $304).

The measure was recommended by consulting firm Stantec, given the municipality hadn’t increased since 2004.

Additional revenues from the public safety fees will be used to address the police department’s increased costs of service delivery, operations, capital outlay, training and new equipment, including police vehicles.

The public safety fee hikes, Tungate said, “takes the burden off the city to have to come up with Penny (for Pasco) money or your other tax revenues” to fund local police operations.

Tungate is third in command of the Dade City Police Department and is responsible for the supervision of criminal investigations, forensics, property evidence and records and communications divisions, according to the city’s website.

The lieutenant of police administration also serves as the public information officer and is responsible for agency recruitment and professional standards. He also writes, tracks and manages grants; and supports the annual budget preparation process.

Pasco County District 1 Commissioner Ron Oakley also spoke during the breakfast meeting, offering general updates on some of the county’s roadway and development projects.

He took a mostly positive angle on the impending growth coming East Pasco’s way.

Said Oakley, “You’ve got all these homes coming into Dade City, guess what it’s going to do for the businesses in Dade City? It’s going to increase. The economic value of those homes, that’s going to pour into Dade City and make it better, so it’s a good thing for everybody.”

Oakley acknowledged more traffic buildup occurring in these parts, but pointed out supporting infrastructure like roadway improvements and schools can’t be furnished until residential developments and communities are built out and related impact fees collected.

Addressing the crowd, Oakley said, “I know you all know how much growth is happening in Pasco County, and a lot of it has moved to the eastern part of Pasco County, which for us, that’s a lot of new things happening. We want to be a premier county, and we’re going to do things the right way.”

Published October 20, 2021

Business Digest 02/19/2020

By

(Courtesy of Andy Taylor/Pasco County)

New Firestone opens, off State Road 54
Terrance Martin, store manager for Firestone Auto Care, prepares to cut the ribbon to celebrate the store’s grand opening on Feb. 7. Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore welcomed the store to the community, along with fellow Pasco County Commissioners Jack Mariano and Mike Wells, and members of the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce. Firestone made a $1,000 donation to the Boys and Girls Club of Tampa Bay, which was accepted by regional CEO Chris Letsos. The store is at 25170 Maren Way in Land O’ Lakes.

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group will have its Feb. 25 meeting at the Palm Tree Acres Clubhouse, with breakfast served for $4. Normally, the group meets at the IHOP on U.S. 301 in Dade City, but the location is being switched because Feb. 25 is Fat Tuesday and IHOP will be having a special pancake day that day. Dr. Randy Stovall will be the featured speaker. For more information contact Nils Lenz, at (813) 782-9491 or ; or, Vicky Jones, at (813) 431-1149 or .

Metro Places job fair
Metro Places is hosting its annual job fair on Feb. 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. The event will be in the college’s conference center. More than 30 employers will be looking for applicants. This is an annual event for Connected City in Pasco County.

Learn about MOSI’s future
Julian Mackenzie, president and CEO of the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI), will be sharing MOSI’s strategic plan for its future on Fowler Avenue in Tampa, at the North Tampa Bay Chamber breakfast meeting on March 3 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. The session will be at Pasco-Hernando State College Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. For more information, call (813) 994-8534, or go to NorthTampaBayChamber.com, and click on the events page.

Free business seminars
Pasco Hernando Score offers various free seminars to help entrepreneurs. Here are some of the offerings in March. Register for the seminars at PascoHernando.score.org.

  • Launch your business with YouTube, March 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14125 Fourth St., in Dade City.
  • How to apply for a business loan, March 10 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills.
  • Basic QuickBooks, March 24 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.

Chamber breakfast
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will have its next business breakfast on March 5 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at the Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Training grants available
The U.S. Small Business Administration is soliciting applications from nonprofit organizations, state and local agencies, and institutions of higher learning to compete for funding of up to $300,000, to deliver entrepreneurship training to women service members, women veterans and women military spouses.

Up to six awardees will receive a total of $300,000 in grants administered by the SBA’s Office of Veterans Business Development to participate in the Women Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program. The funds will be used to cover the costs of educating women service members and veterans, as well as women military spouses who are interested in starting or currently own a small business.

Eligible organizations should submit applications for the Women Veteran Entrepreneurship Training Program funding opportunity (WVETP-2020-01) through Grants.gov. Applications not submitted via Grants.gov will not be evaluated.

The submission deadline is March 17 at 11:59 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time.

Music fest coming
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the Land O’ Lakes Music Festival. The event will feature music from Solar Exposure, Den of Thieves, JT Curtis & The Florida Scoundrels, and Stonegrey. There will be food trucks, vendors and activities. The event is set for March 21 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Admission is $5; parking is free. The Laker/Lutz News is one of the event sponsors.

Pasco EDC seeks nominations
The Pasco Economic Development Council Inc., is seeking nominations for its 2020 industry awards. The deadline for nominations is April 30. Every year, the Pasco EDC recognizes the achievements of top companies in Pasco County for their technology, innovation, job creation, growth and capital investment in the area. All finalists are interviewed, and the awards will be announced at Pasco EDC’s 34th annual Awards and Trade Show in September.

Industry awards are presented in these categories: Small (1 to 20 employees); medium (21 to 100 employees); large (101-plus employees); and, start-up/new (within 24 months).

For more information about the awards program, reach out to , or visit PascoEDC.com.

Business Digest 07/10/2019

By

Brewery owner joins tourism board
Mike Bishop, owner of Big Storm Brewery, has been selected to fill a vacancy on the Tourist Development Council. Bishop will serve for a four-year term, running through June 2023. The board is made up of nine members.

Economic board opening
The Jobs and Economic Opportunities Committee is seeking new volunteer members to take part in the committee that oversees the use of Jobs and Economic Opportunities Trust Fund portion of the Penny for Pasco.

Responsibilities of JEOC members include ensuring Penny for Pasco spending meets the requirements to promote projects creating new jobs and economic growth. The committee consists of nine members, appointed by the Pasco County Commission, representing diverse knowledge and expertise from each of the following areas: finance/banking, agriculture, real estate, manufacturing and other private industries.

Anyone interested in serving on the JEOC is asked to submit a letter of interest and resume to Economic Growth Manager David Engel at: .

Applications are being accepted through Aug. 2.

The Committee meets, at minimum, on a quarterly basis and presents annual updates to the BCC. Each member of the committee serves a two-year term.

East Pasco Networking
Leja Apple, a professional actress and model, and former Miss Pasco, will be the featured speaker at the East Pasco Networking Group breakfast on July 9. The group meets from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City. For more information, call Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1149.

Zephyrhills chamber breakfast meeting
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will have its business breakfast on July 11 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Coffee First
Network before work at Coffee First, on the fourth Tuesday of each month, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the First National Bank of Pasco, 23613 State Road 54 in Lutz.

Power Gals with a Latin Twist
This networking group for women meets the first Friday of each month from noon to 2 p.m., at Bahama Breeze, 25830 Sierra Center Blvd., in Lutz.

Power Gals
The next meeting of this no-obligation networking group for women is July 18 at 11 a.m., at Pizza Villa,  21501 Village Lakes Shopping Center Drive in Land O’ Lakes. For more information, call Karla Arita at (813) 408-2038.

Pasco offers matching program
Experience Florida’s Sports Coast, the destination management organization for Pasco’s County’s tourism efforts, has launched a Marketing Matching Sponsorship Program. The program aims to support special event organizers and events that have the potential to attract tourists to the county. The sponsorship program provides up to $5,000 in funding to expand the overall marketing reach to visitors outside the Tampa Bay region.

For more information, call Experience Florida’s Sports Coast at (727) 847-812-8129, email , or visit bit.ly/FSCMarketingMatching.

Chamber goes global
Hope Allen, the president and CEO of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce was invited to take part at the 2019 U.S. Global Leadership Coalition Summit in Washington D.C. The summit brought together hundreds of state leaders together to discuss the importance of global development and diplomacy for local success, according to a posting on the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s website.

On the website, Allen told chamber members: “I was absolutely honored to be on the elite list of attendees, as there were only 13 other leaders from across our state that were invited to be a part of this annual event.”

The chamber executive also said the summit involved high-level networking, foreign policy briefings, and an opportunity to meet members of Congress. Allen said she “quickly learned that The North Tampa Bay region has not only received the attention of fellow Floridians, but also families, individuals and policymakers of all generations at a national level.”

Pasco planning wins award
Pasco County Planning and Development has received its fourth award related to Connected City: America’s First Smart Gigabit Community Built From the Ground Up.

The latest accolade is the Florida Counties Foundation 2019 County Government Best Practices Award, recognizing Pasco County’s outstanding achievements in creating new, efficient and effective solutions to challenges facing local governments, according to a Pasco County news release.

The project also has received awards from the American Planning Association, Florida Chapter; The Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council and the American Planning Association Florida Chapter Sun Coast.

Hillsborough offers new special events grant
The newly appointed Cultural Assets Commission of Hillsborough County has recently announced the Special Events Partnership Grant program. This grant program seeks to expand and support special events aimed at placemaking and community-building outcomes, and to promote the county’s economic and community prosperity goals.

The new Special Events Partnership Grants are project-specific grants with two funding categories: “Pilot Effort” and “Next Level.”

The Pilot Effort category is intended for events that are new or have not occurred for more than three years and the maximum amount awarded under this category is $50,000.

The Next Level category is intended for events that are well-established, and seek to grow and enhance event offerings above and beyond current levels to significantly increase attendance, community-wide impact and appeal. The maximum funding amount under the Next Level category is $100,000.

Examples of eligible events include: Art festivals, local food festivals, film festivals, river celebration events and local community historic events.

Applications must be submitted by Aug. 2.

For more information, email .

Just in Time for St. Patrick’s Day

By

A brief history of corned beef and cabbage:

Eating corned beef and cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day seems to go hand-in-hand with this day — almost as naturally as shamrocks and wearing green.

Many restaurants feature the meal as a menu special, which is sometimes so popular that it sells out.

Carrots and potatoes often accompany corned beef and cabbage, a dish often served on St. Patrick’s Day. (Courtesy of Sheri Bresin)

But, how did this tradition start, and is this truly an Irish dish?

There is a lot of history to it, but I will keep it concise.

If anything, the vegetables in the meal are more authentic to Ireland than the meat.

The cabbage is grown in many varieties in Ireland and is available almost year-round. Additionally, you will find carrots and potatoes in a corned beef and cabbage dish, which have also been Irish staples. They have grown well there, because of the soil and climate, for centuries.

But, cooking the corned beef and cabbage dish as a way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day is more of an Irish-American tradition. Meaning, if you travel to Ireland on March 17, don’t expect to see this meal being served (Just like you wouldn’t see General Tso’s chicken on a menu in China).

According to the Smithsonian Magazine, pork was (and still is) the main animal product consumed in Ireland hundreds of years ago, as beef was more expensive and out of reach for most. Also, cattle were used solely for milk and to help with farming, and would only be eaten if a cow was too old to work or produce milk.

When the Irish immigrated to America starting in the late 1700s, though, they could enjoy beef, where it was more affordable and accessible.

In fact, the Jewish delis in New York City introduced them to corned beef.

The saltiness of the corned beef paired well with the plain flavors of the cabbage, carrots and potatoes they were so familiar with back home.

If you have any leftovers from your corned beef and cabbage, you make want to make some Reuben sandwiches.

And, with St. Patrick’s Day being a religious holiday in Ireland, the Irish immigrants celebrated this day to recognize their heritage with a meal that connected their new homeland to their old one.

So, you might be wondering: Why do we call it corned beef?

The corned beef comes from brisket, which is a tougher cut of meat from the front of the cow. To make it tender, it is cured (preserved) with large grain pieces of salt, or “corns of salt.”

So there are a few fun facts for you. It’s not quite the Irish cuisine most of us assume, but something that started right here in the United States, and with a completely different immigrant population playing a role, no less.

By Shari Bresin

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County 

Recipes
This is a recipe that my (Irish-American) father-in-law makes using the slow cooker:

Ingredients

1 large onion, chopped

4-5 pounds of corned beef brisket

12 oz. can of dark beer

1 Tablespoon brown sugar

1 teaspoon of thyme

Seasoning packet (optional/usually included with the brisket)

4-5 carrots, halved and cut in ¾-inch slices, rinsed

½  large head of green cabbage, cut into wedges, rinsed

2.5 pounds of whole red potatoes (or any preferred type of potato), rinsed

Directions
Put chopped onions on the bottom of the crockpot

Place the corned beef brisket fat-side up

Mix the beer, brown sugar and thyme, and add to crockpot

Add seasoning mix (optional)

Cook on low for 8 hours

About 10-15 minutes before the meat is done, take 1 cup of the juice from the slow

cooker to boil the cabbage and carrots in until soft (about half an hour)

Boil the potatoes until soft

Let meat cool for 15-20 minutes before slicing (veggies may still be boiling as the meat

cools)

Feeds six people

Have leftovers?  Great. Don’t throw it out just yet (unless it’s been in the fridge for 4 days). Use the extra meat to make a Reuben sandwich. This classic sandwich has many variations, but here is one simple way to make it:

Ingredients for one Reuben sandwich
2 slices marble rye bread (or another type you prefer)

2 Tablespoons Thousand Island dressing or Russian dressing (Russian dressing is typically spicier)

2 slices of Swiss cheese

2 Tablespoons of sauerkraut from the bag or can (but canned tends to be too salty for some)

1/3 pound corned beef, thinly sliced if preferred

1-2 teaspoons cooking oil (enough to coat the pan)

Directions
Spread the dressing on each slice of the rye bread

Place a slice of Swiss cheese on each slice of bread

Add the sauerkraut on top of each slice of cheese

Add beef on one bread slice and then stack slices together to form sandwich

Coat pan with oil

Cook on one side until golden brown, then flip to other side until golden brown

Put lid on to help the cheese melt

Published March 06, 2019

Gearing up for a Thanksgiving tradition

By

What began 22 years ago, as a way to provide a Thanksgiving meal to international students at Saint Leo University, evolved over time into a joint effort by the Benedictine Sisters of Florida and Saint Anthony Parish to feed the hunger “of anyone alone or in need” on Thanksgiving.

“Our outreach is to migrants, the homeless, those who are alone, and those seeking fellowship on this day of thanks and gratitude,” Sister Roberta Bailey, prioress of the Benedictine Sisters of Florida, said via email. “It is always a fun day of family and friends coming together in community to give thanks,” she added.

It takes a lot of helpers to peel enough potatoes to feed about 350 people on Thanksgiving Day. (Courtesy of Benedictine Sisters of Florida)

The meal is served on Thanksgiving Day at 2 p.m., in the Saint Anthony Parish Hall. Deliveries are also made to people who are unable to get to the hall, according to Faith Pridmore, director of mission advancement for the Benedictine Sisters of Florida.

Sister Mary David Hydro chairs the event and there are generally about 25 volunteers, including those that deliver, Pridmore said.

“We usually feed about 225 at the parish hall, plus the deliveries, plus we usually send pans of food over to the abuse center, so we feed about 350,” she said.

The menu consists of turkey, salad, mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls, pie, and coffee, iced tea, lemonade and water.

“We actually get the turkeys sliced,” Pridmore said, which cuts down on labor. But, volunteers “come the night before and usually peel 100 to 125 pounds of potatoes.”

“The Women’s Club over at St. Anthony’s do the pies,” she said. Except, “Sister Donna DeWitt does all of the pumpkin pies that go in the take-outs to the homebound.”

“The day of, Sister Donna does all of the cooking. So, the stuffing and the turkey and the gravy and the mashed potatoes and the green beans — and she has some helpers.

“Then, we have the drivers.

“Then, we have the servers at the parish hall,” Pridmore said.

“Ellen Mejias is the volunteer kitchen manager. She’s got two older daughters that help, usually, and her husband,” Pridmore said.

The idea is to provide “a feeling of fellowship, community and faith” in addition to the holiday meal.

“The kids over at Saint Anthony’s usually do the decorations. We try to make it as special as we can,” Pridmore said.

The Saint Leo University student Social Work Club, under Dr. Veronika Ospina-Kammerer, does fundraising each year to support the holiday tradition, Pridmore said.

Others help, too.

For instance, Pridmore said, “The Golden Corral gives us the rolls and their honey butter.”

If you would like to help or attend this year’s gathering, please call (352) 588-8443.

Those wishing to attend are asked to call by Nov. 17 at 1 p.m., so organizers can get a head count.

Published November 8, 2017