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April 2011
Central Pasco Chamber
of Commerce
with Rasmussen College
The region will
usher in a new chapter in its educational history on May 1
when Rasmussen College opens its new campus at Sunlake
Boulevard and SR 54. Claire Walker, campus president for the
Pasco County campuses of Rasmussen College, outlined the
college’s plans for the campus at a Central Pasco Chamber of
Commerce luncheon last week.The college’s new 25,000-square-foot
building will begin offering online and traditional courses
in August, Walker said. It has schools of nursing, health
science, tech and design, business, education and justice
studies. The new campus is situated between the Suncoast
Parkway and Interstate 75, making it convenient for
residents in Pasco and Hillsborough counties. It also will
provide a straight shot into Hillsborough County when the
Sunlake Boulevard extension is completed in future years…Read more
by B.C.
Manion
at
Claire Walker of Rasmussen College at Central Pasco Chamber
Commissioners Henry
Wilson, Pat Mulieri and Ted Schrader (left) cut the ribbon on the 4.3
million dollar Collier Parkway two mile extension project routing north
bound traffic to Ehren Cutoff that also opens up a back door to the
Dupree Lakes subdivision. Also pictured (right) are are Pasco County
Attorney Jeff Steinsnyder, County Administrator John Gallagher, Dave
Klima of Beazer Homes, builder in the Dupree Lakes subdivision and Bipin
Parikh, Assistant County Administrator.Jennifer Crosby, Principal of Pine View
Middle School and Judith A. Cosh, Principal of Pine View Elementary
School were delighted that the new road opening will divert traffic away
from their two schools and ease safety concerns. However, demonstrating
the serious nature of the new intersection at Hale Road and Collier
Parkway, the brown car going east-bound on Hale Road, with a stop sign,
passes in front of the blue car going south-bound on Collier Parkway,
even though the blue car has the right of way with no stop signs. Many
local citizens are concerned that after 20 years of the drivers on
Collier Parkway having to stop and the drivers on Hale Road getting to
drive through, switching stop signs without any traffic lights may be
inviting a major accident. Pasco County Officials said there is a
warrant study under way to determine whether or not a light will be
installed.
The Central Pasco Chamber of
Commerce played host to a 2nd Annual Family Fun Bike Ride at
Club Connerton, 21100 Fountain Garden Way. Participants had
a choice to ride a 5 mile or 10 mile route through The
Connerton Trail, which consists of boardwalks and paved
trails so riders had a great chance to see nature in its
natural environment. The Charles S. Rushe
Middle School Chorus entertained the crowd after the race.
Sponsors like Bay Cities Bank and Great Britain Tile,
graciously picked up the tab for the event. On hand to
present Kevin, Josie and Jimmy
Perridge of Lake Myrtle Elementary, whose bike was donated
by Bay Cities Bank and Dan and Nancy Griffis and their three
boys, twins Jet and Charles, and Luke who won a bike donated
by Great Britain Tile.
Finding 87 eggs was just
enough for Braeden Williams 7, of Lake Myrtle Elementary to
take the top prize, a $10 gift certificate for Target
donated by Derek Lovett of Compass Self Storage. Braeden
stands with his big sister Taylor 10 and Dad Steve Williams
at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce 2nd Annual Family
Bike Ride at Club Connerton. Overall, great weather created
a perfect scenario for a family fun day sponsored by the
Central Pasco Chamber! Check their website for more upcoming
events that you can bring the whole family to!
www.centralpascochamber.org
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce held a Ribbon
Cutting for Design Three Interiors' new Studio with showroom in
Lutz. Design Three Interiors is your choice for the best interior
design consulting services because they believe in creating
surroundings that reflect your lifestyle, respect your budget, and
give you a sense of accomplishment and pride. They will act as your
partner in creating surroundings that will make you love coming
home! For information about their services just call 813-406-4877
today or visit the showroom and enjoy the many well priced treasures
they offer to make your house into a home. They are located at
1641 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.
The 21st Annual Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce Business
Expo brings over 100 area businesses together to show the locals
and each other what they have to offer. Friday is the day when
the local businesses set up their booth and do a little business
to business mingling but on Saturday the fun started at 9am with the local residents showing up to
check out the booths and bag some free items with the businesses
name on them. Executive Accounts Administrator, Sheila
Tramontana of OurtownFLA.com enjoyed telling the attendees
how they can be FRONT PAGE STARS like these two lovely ladies
who stopped by! A $1,000 savings bond was given away Saturday
along with door prizes. The fun lasted until about 3pm when the
booths began coming down. The Taste of the Town
started around 11am and ran until about 2pm. Strawberry
Shortcake was among the favorite desserts along with a
pie and
cake baking contest. Food samples were $1 with proceeds
going to the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s scholarship
fund. Serving up yummy food was
Hungry Harry's BBQ, Big Apple Bagels, Fresco Pizza, Pizza Villa
and Villa Verde.
The Chamber held at Mixer at Seneca at Cypress Creek Apartments,
1810
Sweetbroom
Circle, Lutz (off SR 54 & Collier) recently and everyone had a great
time. Refreshments from Publix, Land O Lakes were served to all the
guests. The beautiful new apartment complex has a billards table,
meeting area, television viewing area, Clubhouse, and beautiful
grounds. Fore more information about the complex, visit
http://www.senecaatcypresscreek.com/ or call the office at
(813) 909-2000
Pasco County Clerk of Court Paula O'Neil…Pasco County Clerk of
Circuit Court & County Comptroller, Paula S. O'Neil spoke to the
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce monthly meeting on the topic
of "The Importance of Auditing" and on the reorganization of her
office and the challenges of improving customer service in an
age of budget cuts.
Honorary Mayor of Land O' Lakes Amanda Malhoit (left) turned
over her sash to Glenda Wilson with President Gary Williams and
Sherry Markee at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce's Annual
Christmas Holiday Party held at The Groves of Dec. 14 . Mayor
Glenda won by raising over a Thousand dollars in her Campaign
this year. The Honorary Mayor Campaign is designed to benefit
the Chamber, but also benefiting will be the Lutz-Land O' Lakes
Woman's Club and Treats for Troops. The traditional Wacky Tie
contest and Crazy Hat Competition was a big crowd pleaser.
The Chamber also collected toys for Christmas presents for
children involved in Big Brothers / Big Sisters.
It doesn’t take long to realize that A Cup of Organic, a coffee shop
in Lutz, isn’t your typical place to get a cup of Joe or a fancy
coffee drink.
There’s live music there three nights of the week, free wi-fi and
the menu offers a selection of organic coffees, teas, smoothies,
milkshakes, sandwiches, muffins, cupcakes, cookies and other pastry
items.
It has a clean, contemporary feel – and a relaxed vibe.
It also wants to be more than a place where people rush through to
get their morning java.
After a busy summer, the Xtreme
Adventures Family Fun Center in Lutz is adjusting to changing
schedules that accompany the return of students to school.“ Summer
was great,” said regional manager Leila Kroll. “September seems to
be a little slower with the start of school. So we try to let
people know about our fundraisers that we do for the schools, youth
group, athletic club and still have fun.” Opened in June 2009,
Xtreme Adventures features a state-of-the art, 6000-square-foot,
two-level laser tag arena where customers can play up to three
games. Pricing for a single game is $8, two for $14 and three for
$19. Wednesday and Thursday special features unlimited play from
4-10 p.m. for $15. Friday’s special includes unlimited play from
4-11 p.m. for $25.
Read more
Here
All Tune and
Lube , owner Bob Ramazzotto and Manager Brian Kruck celebrated the
grand opening and ribbon cutting for their “Total Car Care” service
center with friends, family, customers and many local business
people from the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce. “We have highly
trained professionals that do quality repairs at great prices” said
Ramazzotto. They can handle everything from basic oil changes to
complicated engine repairs and transmission work. All Tune and
Lube, located at 4107 Land O’Lakes Boulevard, provides free shuttle
service and for those that wish to wait, free WiFi and play area.
You can contact Bob at 813 996-2886. Photos by Anthony V. Masella
Jr. of www.OurtownFLA.com.
20100812-02
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Central Pasco Chamber Awards Banquet-
OurTownFLA.com won the Media Award!
Larry Delucenay of Mad Hatter Utilities presented the Media Award to
Faith Jordan-Masella. Thank you to the Chamber for this award.
...Koni Cassini, Director of Finance & Administration at Tampa Bay
Water, spoke to the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce Members at the
General Membership Meeting about what it is doing to meet the
region’s current water supply needs and the plans they have to meet
future water needs. The meeting was held on May 12 at the Residence
Inn by Marriott. For more information about the chamber, call
813-909-2722 or go to www.centralpascochamber.com.
New Tampa Marketing & Concierge Services, Inc.
put on the New Tampa~Wesley Chapel Health Expo 2010 that was held at
the New Tampa Holiday Inn Express near Muvico. The event was
sponsored by USF Health, Florida Medical Clinics, New Tampa Gazette
and RS Media Solutions. Mary Ann Yaney, of New Tampa Marketing &
Concierge Services, Inc., can be reached at (813) 765-8113 or
www.newtampamarketing.com
Southern Crafted Homes hosted a Spring Showcase Event on Sunday
April 25th from 1 to 4 at their Devonwood community in Land O Lakes.
Everyone was welcome. Art work, photography, glass work, jewelry and
more were on display in their model center with artists from around
the Tampa Bay area. Call Marie at 813-949-9273 for more information.
Address is 20625 Amanda Oak Court, Land O Lakes
Weck's American Grill (aka Weck's Deli) is packing em in at
their new location. Go visit them at
18450 US Hwy 41, Lutz (on the corner of Hwy 41 and Sunset next to
McDonalds in Sunset Point. They can be reached at
813-948-1615 or
www.wecksamericangrill.com.
20100317
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Central Pasco Chamber
Business
Expo & Taste of the Town
Wendy Hevia (on left), watches husband and business partner
David Hevia clean a ring on the Steam Dragon as Salesperson
Merideth Kleker watches.
Mr. Linton Tibbetts and Pasco County Admin John Gallagher cut the
ribbon at the Grand opening of Tibbetts Lumber Company at it
familiar location of SR 54 and 41 in Land O’Lakes.…Cox Lumber
Company Executive Vice President Arlen Tillis and Tibbetts Lumber
owner Linton Tibbetts welcome Jimmy Rane, who portrays the
“YellaFella” character in the popular commercial for Yellawood
products to the Grand Opening. …Pasco County Mike Olsen spoke at the
Grand Opening of Mr. Linton Tibbetts’ Tibbetts Lumber Company also
spoke at the original opening at this same location 31 years ago as
a Pasco County Commissioner.
2010-0304-01
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One man's simple idea
saves Pasco County $100,000
One man who responded to tough economic times by thinking outside of
the box has saved his county tens of thousands of dollars. John
Leucke is in charge of supplies for Pasco Fire and Rescue. He sorts
drugs and medical supplies and ships them out to engines and rescue
vehicles.
While doing his job, he noticed a more efficient and cheap way of
distributing the inventory.
"Each unit is required to carry a certain amount of drugs, so
they were outdating," Leucke said. "And each month we would surplus
these drugs as they outdated." Leucke submitted a drug recycling
idea to the county commission through the county's Cost Savings
Award Program. His idea was approved.
This new
networking group meets at Copperstone Executive Suites located at
3632 Land O' Lakes Blvd, in LOL, on Tuesday's from 8:00-9:30am. For
more information, call Shelley Nelson Ketchem at 813-909-2800, or
Mary Lynn Gorsline at 813-298-7363, or Edna Dunston at 813-785-3117.
For more than 30 years, Doug Ford of
Land O’ Lakes has been buying lumber and building supplies from what
once was Cox Lumber. He said when he learned the same owners were
re-opening the store he was thrilled.
I was real excited,” Ford said. “I like the store
because they cater to contractors more than the big
chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s. They are unique
because they are a full service lumber yard.”
Even though the name has changed, the people,
products and services are the same as before when it
was Cox Lumber. Tibbetts Lumber, located at the
northwest corner of US 41 and SR 54, offers an
extensive hardware department, a professional paint
department, roof trusses, interior and exterior
pre-hung doors and a complete line of lumber and
lumber associated products.
Bob Markee, of SML Services Inc. (on left), and Gary Williams, of
Bay Cities Bank, hosts of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce
Networking Breakfast, served several chamber members breakfast at
the Bay Cities Bank in Lutz on January 26. Photo by Faith
Jordan-Masella of www.OurTownFLA.com
Lisa Reilly with
twin ten year old daughters Kerry and Caitlin students at
Seven Oaks Elementary admire one of the works of Wesley
Chapel artist Bob McAnespie, a street scene in Lucca, Italy
at the Hyundai & Mazda of Wesley Chapel Suncoast Arts
Festival at Shops at Wiregrass on January 23, 2010. Photos
of this event by Anthony Masella Jr. can be found at
www.OurtownFLA.com.
Dr. Joe
Grimaudo, of All Smiles Tampa Bay (center holding scissors) prepares
to cut the ribbon at his Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the Central
Pasco Chamber of Commerce. His new office is in Suncoast
Meadows Professional Park, 17200 Camelot Ct., Land O' Lakes. He can
be reached at 813-345-8580 or www.AllSmilesTampaBay.com
Kelly Reardon, of Land O’ Lakes, dressed Mattie, a
Wheaton Terrier, and then ran the relay while trying to keep her hat on at Field
Day put on by Doggone Solutions on January 16. The event was held at Starkey
Ranch. For more information about Doggone Solutions, call 877-789-PAWS or go to
www.DogGoneSolutions.com.
January 16,
2010
-04
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Central Pasco Chamber Welcomes
PEDC President John Hagen
John Hagen,
President/CEO, of the Pasco Economic Development Council, spoke
about the Overview of The Pasco Economic Development Council at the
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce General Membership Meeting held at
the Residence Inn Marriott at Northpointe on January 13. Contact the
chamber at 813-909-2722 or
www.centralpascochamber.com.
Desperate
parents will
sometimes take
desperate steps
for their sick
child. A New
Port Richey
couple, at their
wit's end in
their efforts to
give some
quality of life
to their very
ill
4-and-half-year-old
son, is one of
those couples.
Kathy and Darren
Raske, are
planning to take
their son Ethan
half way around
the world - to
China - for stem
cell treatments
they believe are
the boy's last
and best hope
for an
improvement in
his quality of
life. They'll be
going without
Ethan's own stem
cells. His cord
blood was
collected at his
birth and is
privately stored
but he isn't
allowed access
to it. To
read more of
Ethan's Story,
CLICK HERE:
The Central Pasco Chamber
of Commerce held it’s 1st
Annual Family Fun
Bike Ride at Connerton Club House,
located at 21100 Fountain Garden Way
in Land O’Lakes.
The Connerton Trail, consisting of
boardwalks and paved trails offers a
great opportunity to explore nature
up
close in a true natural environment.
Riders chose from a 5 mile or 10
mile route. Vendors were there and the Charles S. Rushe Middle
School Jazz Band & Chorus entertained.
November 14,
2009
-09
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Pasco County fifth
grade essay contest entitled "Freedom Requires
Responsibility.
Pasco County Supervisor of
Elections, Brian E. Corley, in partnership with the
Pasco Council of Chambers, has announced the winners
of the Pasco County fifth grade essay contest
entitled "Freedom Requires Responsibility." First
Place: Received $500 cash compliments of the Pasco
Council of Chambers is Emma Gazaway, Imagine School
at Land O' Lakes. Second Place: Received 4
tickets to a Tampa Bay Lightning game valued at $400
compliments of Tampa Bay Lightning/Kids Voting Tampa
Bay is Hannah Presson, Denham Oaks Elementary.
Third Place: Received a bicycle through private
donation is Cheyanne Johnson, Quail Hollow
Elementary School. A total of 158 were submitted and
judged by members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
The contest is part of our countywide education
program and is in addition to our High School Voter
Registration Drive, our Vote in Honor of a Vet
Program. Winners were announced at the Central Pasco
Chamber of Commerce General Membership Meeting on
November 11. They are
pictured with State Representative Will
Weatherford who spoke about Business Under
Florida's Climate Today.
November 11,
2009
-09
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Eagle Plaza holds The Tampa Bay 2nd Annual Health Fair
Eagle Plaza held
The Tampa Bay 2nd Annual Health Fair with free
Vision screening and drawing for a free pair of designer sunglasses
from
The Eyeglass Factory (who sponsored the event), Skin cancer
screening by The Center for Dermatology and Skin Surgery. -- Body
fat analysis by Medi Weight Loss Clinics. -- Blood pressure and
blood glucose screenings by 10 to 10 Urgent Care. Eagle Plaza is
located at 24444 SR 54 next to the Ferman dealership. Contact the
Eyeglass Factory at (813) 949-7274.
November 7,
2009
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Oasis - a Pregnancy Care Center
holds Grand Opening
they are located at 3632 Land O'Lakes Blvd, Suite 108
Land O'Lakes, and can be reached at 813-406-4965 or
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Legacy Coins Opens
Art Pinto, of Legacy Coins, shows what it takes to buy this coin. Check
out their many beautiful coins to buy and sell at their location at 1707
N. Dale Mabry Hwy. Lutz. Reach them at 813-948-8777.
Xcel 360
Youth Fitness & Activity Center held
a Fundraising Event to benefit Bella Rose Denisulk, a two-year old from Land O’
Lakes who has Neuroblastoma at their newly opened facility located at 1023 Gunn
Hwy in Odessa on October 10. All Proceeds went to Isabella. Xcell 360 offers
All-Star Cheerleading, Tumbling Classes, Batting Cages, Birthday Parties, an
After School Program, Summer Camps, Mommy/Daddy & Me classes, Parkour, Music
Lessons, & more. For more information, go to www.XCEL360.com, or call
(813)792-7037.
October
3,
2009
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Knowledge Points in Land O' Lakes celebrates One
Year Anniversary
Dr. Bobby Smith, Director of Learning for
Knowledge Points of Land O’Lakes, celebrates the One-Year Anniversary with some
of his students on October 10. They are located in the Collier Commons Plaza at
2201 Collier Pkwy., Land O’Lakes, and can be reached at 813-909-0781 or
www.knowledgepoints.com/landolakes.
October
10,
2009
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To
view Part 1 of 3 video for this event click >>>
To
view Part 2 of 3 video for this event click >>>
To
view Part 3 of 3 video for this event click >>>
David, Jordyn 4 and Robyn Burton of Sir Rebel Films of Land O’Lakes were
offering DVD’s that teach the healthy way of eating and teaching the children so
they can enjoy a lifetime of healthy living in a society that seems to push the
opposite. Find out more at
www.inGreedientsMovie.com . Music was provided by Jim
Cummings and Aaron Cutoff. There was also performances by Hoola Monster at noon
and belly dancer Sasha Lukekin. Food was provided by Joe’s Hot Dogs and Culinary
Delights. Featured artists and crafters included Our Sweet Whimsy, functional
art; France Doulk, baskets; Custom Wire Wrap, jewelry .American Hot Air
Balloons, Victorious Life Church, Cub Scout Pack 323 and Master Gardeners were
also be on hand. For more information, call (813) 731-5168 or visit
www.LOLSaturdayMkt.com.
Hannah 3, Shannon and Morgan Casel 5 of Land O’Lakes find
good things to eat that are also good for you at the Land O’ Lakes Saturday
Market held for the first time at the Land O’Lakes Community Center.
The market featured produce from Farmer Nancy Blavich, Heirloom Vegetable
Gardeners, and Rick and Joyce Fritz, who will also had fresh, raw honey and
Amish jams and jellies. Music was provided by Aaron Cutoff. Music was provided
by Jim Cummings and the Land O’ Lakes Saturday Market organized by Pam St. Mary
and Lee St. Mary. Morning Glory Farms - Heirloom Vegetable Gardeners. Rick and
Joyce Fritz, who will also had fresh, raw honey and Amish jams and jellies.
October 3,
2009-04
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Conch Critters Entertains at
Rapscallions
To
view Part 1 of 2 video for this event click >>>
To
view Part 2 of 2 video for this event click >>>
September 25,
2009-04
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Bill Pearce for Honorary Mayor at
Xtreme Adventures
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Gateway Chiropractic Ribbon
Cutting
Gateway Chiropractic Clinic, located at 6761 Land O' Lakes Blvd., Land
O' Lakes held their Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the Central Pasco
Chamber of Commerce on September 10.
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CP Chamber Gen Membership
Meeting
Gary Loman, of Rasmussen College (center), introduced new Chamber of
Commerce member Peter Castellani, Executive Director of Oasis-a Pregnancy Care
Center, to Carla Looper, of Florida Insurance Brokers of Central Florida, a
potential new member at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce General Membership
Meeting held at Willow Bend Community Church on September 9.
Sophisticated Tailoring for Women, a
long-established alteration business in central Pasco, has relocated to
Copperstone Executive Suites, 3632 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Owner Edna
Dunston held an open house on Sept. 3 to show off her new storefront.
During the open house, Dunston
conducted sewing demonstrations and enrolled students in upcoming sewing
classes. Beginning to advanced classes will be taught in tailoring and
will include
Dunston’s special method of fitting and designing. For more information
call Dunston at (813) 785-3177.
September
3,
2009-01
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Belk honored local educators on September
2nd, by offering an EXTRA 20% off sale priced and regular priced items
and 15% off home and shoes. They also enjoyed complimentary food and
refreshments from Weck’s Deli, The 2008 and 2009 Best of Pasco Winner.
The Land O' Lakes Belk is located at 2111 Collier Parkway in the Collier
Commons Place. They can be reached at 813-948-8555 or
www.belk.com .
September
2,
2009-02
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Xtreme Adventures Ribbon Cutting
Xtreme Adventures
had
their Ribbon Cutting with the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce on
September 2. Chamber members got to play games, including the new
bowling and received a tour.
Xtreme Adventures
Lazer Tag is located
at 24810 State Road 54, Lutz. They can be reached at
813-949-3866 or
xtremeadventures4fun.com
Click
>>>
Here
September
2,
2009-01
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Clarity Med Spa VIP
Gold Party with Kiefer Village Jewels and Benefit for Marissa Collier
Coming out in support of Marissa Collier in her effort to compete in the
Miss Florida Teen USA Pageant are Brianna Lupo, Florida’s Perfect Teen,
Anastasia Stroup, Miss Central Pasco, Collier, Chloe Lupo, Miss Pasco
County Fair and Shirley Leung, Miss Teen Wesley Chapel.
Dr. Danny Abbruzzese, Dr. Khalid Saeed and Sharon Drenner, Marketing
Coordinator of Clarity Med Spa partnered with Kiefer Village Jewels for
a VIP Gold Party to raise funds for Marissa Collier in her effort to
compete in the Miss Florida Teen USA Pageant with a VIP Gold
Party. Kiefer Village Jewels will be buying old gold. Attendees donated
$25 or more to her Campaign Fund, and in return enjoyed any of these
Special Services, a 15 Minute Massage, Mini Clarifying Peel, Jane
Iredale Cosmetic Consultation, Eyebrow Threading along with an evening
of music and refreshments. For more information call 813-388-6818 or
visit
www.claritymedspa.com. Photos of this and other events by Anthony V.
Masella Jr. Dina
Badami an appraiser consultant at Kiefer Village Jewels offers a couple
hundred dollars for a lady’s old gold necklace Clarity MedSpa VIP Gold
Party.
Land O' Lakes Christian School held a Dedication for their new
building that contains a gymnasium. The impressive
1.2 million dollar structure was a wonderful church
venture and was built by Bishop Construction. The
celebration was held at the First Baptist Church
service on August 16 and the congregation was
treated to a wonderful BBQ dinner put on by Mike
McBride's South Florida Catering after.
August
16,
2009-01
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Dunkin’Donuts in
Lutz, located at 22722 SR 54 at Collier Boulevard, held a Grand
re-opening on Aug. 15. They had donut decorating and free
samples of Dunkin’
Donuts and
Baskin-Robbins menu items. Owner Bob Jarabek admires the balloon
hate worn by New Tampa's Jamie Miller.
August
15,
2009-02
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Bill Lehman, of Space Box
Storage, hosted a Hometown Festival on August 15. He
is pictured with Alicia Rio, of the American Cancer
Society. A mini Relay For Life fundraiser was held
along with an Antique Car Show, pony rides, artists,
and vendors. Space Box Storage is located at
2550 Land O' Lakes Blvd, Land
O' Lakes, and can be reached at 813-949-9232.
August 15,
2009-01
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"You could be wearing these shoes!" says three
year-old Tegan who modeled shoes at the Central Pasco Chamber of
Commerce Mixer held at Belk on August 11. Her dad Eric Drinkwater,
manager of Belk, hosted the event that offered chamber members in
attendance twenty percent off their purchase. They were also treated to
yummy food compliments of the newly opened CW’s Country Café......Shelby
grabs for dollars in the Money Machine courtesy of Bay Gulf Credit Union
at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce Mixer held at Belk on August
11. Her dad Eric Drinkwater, (pictured on right) manager of Belk,
hosted the event. Also pictured is Trena Reynolds, of
Promotional Solutions.
August
11,
2009-01
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Central Pasco Chamber General Membership Meeting held
at Residence Inn at Northpointe
Xtreme Adventures
held a Grand Opening Back to School Bash at
their brand new, State of the Art Family Fun Center on
August 8. They offered up Special Events, Lazer Tag, Arcade,
Bowling,
The "ROCK", Lazer Frenzy,
Food, Drinks and Prizes.
Xtreme Adventures
Lazer Tag is located
at 24810 State Road 54, Lutz. They can be reached at
813-949-3866 or
xtremeadventures4fun.com
August
8,
2009-09
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Karaoke at Smiles Cafe
The crowd is always large on Thursday nights at
Smiles Café in The Groves. Karaoke draws lots of
people inside and outside of the development as it’s
held from 6:00pm – 10:00pm. No cover charge and the
restaurant is open as people young and old come from
all over to eat, sing, dance, and have fun with
friends. For those regulars, there’s always time to
join in the fun even if you don’t sing. The crowd
donned hankies, Kleenex, and even white plastic bags
to wave as Senior Idol Winner Clint Giesler belted
out the Tom Jones song Delilah. One
gentleman brought his darling little granddaughters
onstage as he sang. Only go if you want to have
fun. Smiles Cafe & Catering can be reached at
813-996-1958.
Amy Tanner, incoming senior at Land O’ Lakes High School was
working hard to keep up with the crowd as they ate,
sang, danced, and had fun at Karaoke Night at Smiles
Café in The Groves. Great Britain Tile owner George
Clamp belts out a tune. Theresa Wright, of Land O’
Lakes, got the crowd going with her singing.
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce gave the Presidents Award to Ben Pumo,
owner of Benedetto's Ristorante located in Land O’Lakes, at their Awards
Banquet June 19. Photos of this and other events by Anthony V. Masella
Jr
June 19,
2009
-07
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Girl Scouts of Land O'Lakes
at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Local Girl Scouts Bridge to Next
Level
May 13, local Girl Scout troops of
Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s Land O Lakes Service Unit
participated in a bridging ceremony at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Activity Center in Lutz.
Boys in Lutz’s Cub Scout Pack 212 gathered last weekend (Saturday) for
some wet fun, and to decorate their float for next Saturday’s
Independence Day parade in Lutz. Top row (l to r): Cody Foster,
Trent Innocenti, Christopher Barnes. Middle row (l to r): Kyle Bowman,
Paul Coats, Zachary Huff, Cameron Rios, Jandor Myers, William LeNoir,
Nicholas Rios, Shane LeNoir, Mason Sims. Bottom row (l to r): Andrew
Wise, Daniel Knox. Photos of this and other events by Anthony V. Masella
Jr
June 27,
2009-05
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Arrest made in teen's killing
Detectives are questioning potential witnesses after Dustin Sean White was killed in an early morning shooting.
Deputies look for
evidence near the area where
they say Dustin White was shot
and killed.
Tribune photo by
JASON BEHNKEN
A 19-year-old
man has been arrested in the
Sunday morning shooting death of
Dustin White, 17, at a clubhouse
in Lake Padgett Estates East,
the Pasco County Sheriff's
Office said.
Douglas
Gabriel Cevallos Jr. of 2900
Banyon Hill Lane, Land O' Lakes,
was charged with manslaughter;
he was booked into Land O' Lakes
Jail on Tuesday afternoon and
released Wednesday after posting
$50,000 bail.
Cevallos and
White were at a party at 4508
Parkway Blvd. about 2 a.m. when
a fight erupted in the nearby
parking lot of the community
clubhouse, sheriff's spokesman
Kevin Doll said. Cevallos picked
up a gun that had been dropped
during the fight and fired one
shot that killed White.
to benefit
Lutz resident Donna Coberly, a Cystic Fibrosis patient, in need of a
lung transplant. Monetary Donations welcome, All checks to be payable
to the Willow Bend Community Church; for THE DONNA COBERLY BENEFIT
TRUST FUND.
Pancakes,
coffee and other goodies also for sale. LOCATION:
WILLOW BEND COMMUNITY CHURCH 2541 HENLEY ROAD, LUTZ, FL, 33548.
DIRECTIONS: located 1 mile west of US 41, just 70' south of SR
54 on Henley Road. Henley Road is 3.5 miles east of the Suncoast
Parkway.uncoast Parkway.
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UCH Physicians Care, Dr. Kenneth L. Savage, Jr., D.O.,
has a ribbon cutting with the Central Pasco Chamber
of Commerce. He is located at
2416 Land O' Lakes Blvd, Land O' Lakes and can be
reached at 813-909-2368.
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Connerton has many amenities and now has a hospital!
University Community Health opened Long Term Acute Care Hospital at
Connerton. Photos also include their brand new
Outdoor Amphitheatre. For
more info, go to theRose Cottage Welcome Center, 20421 Rose Cottage Way, Land O’ Lakes,
Florida 34637, or call 813-995-2460 or Toll Free
1-888-281-0739, or you can visit their website:
www.Connerton.com.
A fund-raiser was held April 13, to help Keelyn Cardona whose father
was killed in action in Afghanistan Feb. 28. Keelyn Cardona,
9, is the daughter of Heather Ashby and the late Santos Cardona.
Santos Cardona had been a defense contractor with American Canine
and was working with a bomb detecting dog in Afghanistan, said
Heather Ashby, who was Santos Cardona's companion for many
years.Santos Cardona died when a Humvee in which he was riding
struck an improvised explosive device and turned over, Ashby said.
Keelyn Cardona lives in Land O’ Lakes with her mother. Santos
Cardona and Ashby met in Germany in 1997 while both were serving in
the US Army. The fund-raiser was held at Tijuana Flats, 23100 State
Road 54, Lutz. A face painter or balloon artist will attend the
event, Ashby said. The restaurant contributed 20 percent of sales
that evening to the Keelyn Cardona fund that has been set up at Bay
Gulf Credit Union for her daughter's future expenses, including
college, Ashby said. People wishing to make donations to that fund
(Account No. 100252) may do so in person at Bay Gulf Credit Union,
2255 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639.
Both the account number and Keelyn Cardona’s name should be
indicated on the check or deposit slip, Ashby said. Deposits may
also be made by mail or in person to other Bay Gulf Credit Union
branches as long as the proper identifying information is provided,
Ashby said. “The community has really been wonderful” in helping her
daughter, Ashby said. Ashby is a Tampa native. She got out of the
Army in 2000, shortly after Keelyn was born. She and Santos Cardona
lived in Land O’ Lakes for 18 months after he left the Army in
August 2007 until he began his defense contractor’s position in
Afghanistan. The Army allowed Cardona to keep the Belgian Malinois
dog, Duco, who he had been working with while in the service. Duco
lives with Ashby and Keelyn. “He was a very private person, but he
cut up a lot and loved having a good time,” Ashby said of Santos
Cardona. “He loved being in the military and serving his country. He
enlisted when he was 18,” Ashby said. Also, Ashby said, Santos
Cardona enjoyed spending as much time as possible with Keelyn, who
is a third-grader at the Learning Gate Community School in Lutz.
April
13,
2009
01
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Central Pasco Chamber
Business Expo
in Land O'Lakes, Florida
Chef Ben Pumo, owner of the
Award Winning Benedetto’s Italiano Ristorante gave a cooking
demonstration at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce Business Expo and
Taste of the Town held on March 13 and 14 at the Land O’ Lakes
Recreation Complex. He made Maine Lobster Risotto with fresh tomato,
shallots, garlic and sherry in a cream sauce garnished with fresh
broccoli that he then served to the large hungry crowd. The smell
permeated while lots of great networking was going on between the 88
businesses who participated and the public visitors. Benedetto’s
Italiano Ristorante is located at 21529 Village Lakes Shopping Center,
Land O' Lakes. They can be reached at 813-909-9694 or at
www.benedettoitaliano.com. ...Bonnie Kerr, of Loyless
Funeral Home, promoted the many different services they offer such as
cost-effective burial and cremation packages to meet any family's
financial needs, online obituaries, Funeral Broadcasting LIVE, and Flag
Retirement. Old flags may be dropped off any day of the week and
they will be used for the veterans who are cremated. For
loved ones who cannot be at the funeral service, Loyless offers LIVE
streaming video that runs in real time, at up to 30 frames per second,
as if you were watching T.V. This option comes through your email.
Loyless Funeral Home is located at 5310 Land O'Lakes Blvd., Land O'Lakes.
They can be reached at 813-996-6610 or www.LoylessFuneralHome.com. ...David
Hevia, owner of Kiefer Village Jewels, with helpers Donna Piscitelli,
and Meredith Kleker, promoted his business and the special necklace
designed by Piscitelli that is being raffled off to support the Land O’
Lakes Relay For Life. Kiefer Village Jewels is located at 24144
State Road 54, Lutz. They can be reached at 813) 909-2393 or
www.kvjewels.com. .............. Dr Jo Ann Daniels, of Central Pasco Vet
Care (on right), gives out one of the prizes that she raffled off at the
Business Expo. Central Pasco Vet Care is located at 17945 State Road 54,
Lutz. They can be reached at 813-926-1126 or
www.CentralPascoVetCare.com. ... Kathy Leung, of Golden Inn, and
her beauty queen daughter Shirley Leung, the current Miss Teen Wesley
Chapel, of Academy at the Lakes, served up some great Bourbon Chicken
and other selections at the Taste of the Town on March 14. Golden
Inn is located at 23042 State Road 54, Lutz. They can be reached
at 813- 909-1818 or www.GoldenInn.net. ...Michele McCarthy (on left) and
Joan Stout, of Connerton, tried to sell a hundred homes at
the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce Business Expo. They did well
explaining what a beautiful community Connerton is with so many
amenities although they did came up a bit short of their goal. But the
people will come to Connerton once they find out how special it is.
The Rose Cottage Welcome Center at Connerton is located at 20421 Rose
Cottage Way, Land O’ Lakes. They can be reached at 813-995-2460 or
1-888-281-0739, or
www.Connerton.com. ... Rob Kress, and Cindy Griggs, of Ierna Air
Conditioning and Heating promoted their company that earned the Central
Pasco Chamber’s 2007 Business of the Year Award for a company with more
than 10 employees. They can be reached at 813-948-6355,
866-323-COOL (2665), or
www.IernaAir.com.
Robin Perez, Land O’
Lakes Honorary Mayor, of Bay Gulf Credit Union, got some shredded pork
with yellow rice and black beans from Rapscallions at the Taste of the
Town at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce Business Expo.
Rapscallions is located at 4422 Land
O Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes. They can
be reached at 813-235-6511, or www.rapscallions.net.
..Steve Chojnacki , owner of Primrose School at
Collier, a Five Star Accredited School, and Kristine Smith,
Curriculum Coordinator, promoted their upcoming Summer Camp at the
Business Expo. Your child’s imagination doesn’t take the summer off.
At Camp Primrose, your child will learn valuable skills while spending
the summer with friends in a safe, educational environment. Each
themed session is designed to stretch your child’s imagination, social
skills, and learning skills by incorporating our Balanced Learning
curriculum. They offer a flexible camp schedule to fit your needs
and a small group size of 1 teacher to every 12 campers. Space is
limited. You must be 5 years old by September 1, 2009. Primrose
School at Collier is located at 23021 Weeks Boulevard, Land O'Lakes and
they can be reached at 813-242-7800 or www.primroseschools.com.
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Conner Preserve Grand Opening
The
District celebrated the grand opening of the Conner Preserve. The
event included a ceremony, guided hikes, model airplane
demonstrations, children’s activities, water quality monitoring
demonstrations and more. The District purchased the 2,980-acre
property in 2003 to preserve and restore this important natural
habitat. The preserve’s entrance is located approximately 3.5
miles east of U.S. 41 on State Road 52 in Pasco County.
Recreational opportunities include
bicycling, bird-watching, equestrian, hiking and
picnicking. Equestrians must obtain a free
day-use permit and carry proof of a horse’s
current negative Coggins test. Camping will be
available in the future. The preserve also has a
model airplane flying field, which is managed by
Bay City Flyers. Portable restroom facilities
are located at the entrance and at the model
airplane flying field. The preserve is open
daily from sunrise to sunset. For more info:, go
to
www.watermatters.org.
Debbi Yamokosi, of Treasured Pets Resort & Spa, LLC held her ribbon
cutting with the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce on January 15.
Several family members and business associates joined her for food,
treats, and fun.
Treasured Pets Resort & Spa is located at
2643 Narnia Way, Suite 101, Land O' Lakes. They can be reached
at 813-909-7387 or
www.treasuredpetsresortandspa.com
Log Cabin Archery offers
Archery, Paint Ball, and Fun
Amanda Nail,
of Land O' Lakes, demonstrates her expertise archery style while
practicing at Log Cabin Archery located at
4629 Land O Lakes Blvd, Land O Lakes. They can be reached at (813)
996-1345
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Benedetto's Ristorante
Benedetto's Is A Secret No More
By MARY PATRICK, Tribune correspondent
Published: January 2, 2009
LAND O' LAKES - Inside, a piano player tickles the ivories. Outside, a
singer croons
romantic songs to diners. On the menu are upscale Italian
favorites. And it's all in a strip mall. Actually, it's the
parking lot of a strip mall. And it's in Land O'Lakes. When
Benedetto's decided to put up a sign proclaiming the place one of Tampa
Bay's "best kept secrets," they weren't exaggerating. Upscale enough and
with a decent enough wine list to be a good location for an "event" meal
- a big date, say, or a birthday - but also family-friendly, the place
quickly went from "never heard of it" to "in our Top 10" of
praise-worthy restaurants in
North Tampa (or, in this case, southern Pasco County).
The place is owned by chef Ben Pumo, who supervises a kitchen where they
make their own
fresh pasta and sauces every day, as well as cut their own
meat.
CLICK HERE: (for more)
A traditional
Holiday Celebration. Meet on the Green of the Land O’ Lakes Community
Center U.S. Highway 41. Sunday, December 14, 2008 3:00
p.m. to 5:00 p.m Featuring: Local Church and School Choirs,
Bell’s Angels Bell Choir, Award Winning Puppet Team P.F.C., Dr. Susan
MacManus, Representative Will Weatherford and other long-time Lakers
with hometown tales, holiday sugar cookies, hot apple cider and much
more. So bring your lawn chair and enjoy the fun!
Russell Remalia, D.O. (center holding scissors)
prepares to cut the ribbon at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce on December 8. This
beautiful new office is located east of the Suncoast Parkway at
16541 Pointe Village Drive, Suite 207, Lutz. They can be
reached at (813) 920-8300, or www
Rocky Contreras and Dr. Bobby Smith (center with scissors), of
KnowledgePoints,
prepare to cut the ribbon at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce on December 3.
KnowledgePoints offers affordable tutoring with proven results.
They provide individualized instruction that focuses on helping children
build skills and gain the confidence to succeed, and they tie that in
with their unique motivational system that makes learning fun.
Knowledge Points works with children ranging from Pre-K beginning
readers through 12th graders, and they provide instruction in Reading,
Writing, Math, Study and Organizational Skills, and SAT/ACT Prep.
They also provide Gifted Learning and Homework Help. Ask us about
their guarantee!
KnowledgePoints
is located at
2201 Collier Parkway, Land O’Lakes, in the Publix plaza at SR 54 and
Collier Pkwy. They can be reached at
813-787-1225 or
www.knowledgepoints.com/landolakes.
NFL Alumni Tampa President Tim Watson of Wesley Chapel,
(on left),
introduced several former football players at the Gala Fundraiser Event
to benefit seven local charities on November 30.
November
30, 2008
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Kaleb (on left), and his brother Trevor, of Oakstead Elementary, enjoyed
climbing on top of the Fire Engine at the UPS Store in Lutz to tell
Santa Claus what they wanted for Christmas on November 29. The
store is located at 23110 SR 54, Lutz, and can be reached at (813)
948-2287.
Logan Taylor 8 of Lake Myrtle Elementary with sister Kelsey Taylor 11 of
Chuck Rushe Middle School admire this 1929 Flat Track Ford, owned by
Bill Little of Land O’Lakes on display at the Auto show held Space Box
Storage located at 2550 Land O’ Lakes Blvd November 22. Ashley Taylor 5 with brother Austin
Taylor 9 both of Lake Myrtle Elementary admire the 1937 Four Door Chevy
owned by Earlene Burleson Tampa at the
Space Box Auto show, November 22. Bill Lehman, Property Manager of Space
Box and host of the Auto show at the 130,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art
facility in Land O’Lakes poses with Dori Williams of LA Fitness in
Carrollwood located at 17631 N.Dale Mabry and Tiffany Edgar 15 of Tampa
November 22.
Newly
appointed Secretary Brenda Landry with Honorary Deputy Mayor Gloria
Dale, Heritage Park Foundation Treasurer Alan Cotterill and
volunteer Gloria Kasouz discuss events to promote the park, future plans
for it and plans for "Traditions on the Green" holiday celebration at
the park set for Sunday, December 14 at the Land O' Lakes Community
Center.
Creative World of
Land O’Lakes, an early childhood learning center, held their Grand
Opening with the help of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce, Miss
Central Pasco Taylor Mock of Land O' Lakes HS and Jr. Miss Central Pasco
Anastasia Stroup of Wiregrass Ranch HS (with crowns) seen her sitting
with Directors Management team Holly Brady and Kellie Howard, Teachers
Summer Easton, Nilda Ramos and Justine Cuviello with many students from
the new center located at 9511 Land O’Lakes Blvd.
Mr. and Mrs.
Bradley Chalmers, of Lighting & Bulbs, Inc. (center with scissors),
prepare to cut the ribbon at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce on November 19. Several chamber
members and business associates joined them. Lighting & Bulbs
Supply, Inc. is located at
5110 Land O' Lakes Boulevard, Land O’ Lakes. They can be reached
at
www.lightingandbulbssupply.com Phone: 813-996-7006.
TAMPA,
Fla. (Nov. 18, 2008) – On Nov. 7,
Connerton opened the 11,000-square-foot, $8 million dollar first phase
of Club Connerton. The resort-style activities center features a super
pool aquatic playground with water features; fitness center with Cybex
equipment and locker rooms; kid’s club with structured activities;
ConnerTown Café; meeting rooms; tennis, basketball, and volleyball
courts; and an outdoor amphitheater.
Club Connerton is the centerpiece of the larger Gardens Village
Center, which will also include retail shops and professional office
space. Once future phases are complete, Club Connerton is planned to
total more than 25,000 square feet...to read more,
CLICK HERE:
November
18, 2008
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Loretta Becker (center with scissors) of Tender
Moves, Inc. prepares to cut the ribbon at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on
November 12. They can help "Move Seniors Tenderly". They can be
reached at 813-482-2620, or P.O. Box 292, Land O' Lakes, or at
www.movingseniorstenderly.com
November
12, 2008
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York Bridge Concepts, Inc. held their ribbon cutting on November
10. Their new location is at
2420 Brunello Place,Lutz, (Near Devonwood on SR 54
West of Hwy 41). They can be reached at
Toll Free: 800-226-4178, or 813-933-1304, or
www.ybc.com
November
10, 2008
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Sally and Gary Secunda (center, with scissors),
prepare to cut the ribbon during the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with the
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce on November 7. Several chamber
members and business associates joined them and previewed the thousands
of outdoor gear items they have in their store. They are located
in Eagle Plaza at the intersection of SR 54 and Oak Grove Blvd..
They can be reached at 813-949-9600 or at www.Go2Outfitters.com.
Go 2 Outfitters owner Gary Secunda (on right), shows a
Pasco County Sheriff some of the outdoor gear products at the Flapjack
Festival that was held on November 2 at the Pasco County Fairgrounds.
Go 2 Outfitters is located in Eagle Plaza at the intersection of SR 54
and Oak Grove Blvd.. They can be reached at 813-949-9600 or at
www.Go2Outfitters.com.
Click
>>>
Here (Contains
photos of Honorary Mayor Installation, Cake & Pie Baking Contest,
Flapjack Eating Contests, Mr. Legs, entertainers, and lots more).
Robin
Perez, of Bay Gulf Credit Union, won the title of Honorary Mayor of Land
O’ Lakes on October 31 at the Flapjack Festival put on by the Central
Pasco Chamber of Commerce at the Pasco County Fairgrounds. Brinkley
Simpson, of Denham Oaks Elementary, was the winner of the Best Costume
Girl at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce Flapjack Festival held at
the Pasco County Fairgrounds.