Leadership Pasco Newsletter - Spring 2023
The Leadership Pasco Newsletter is published quarterly. SINCE 1991, THE MISSION OF LEADERSHIP PASCO is to identify and recruit current or potential leaders of Pasco County, facilitate the development and interaction of those leaders, and to foster an issues-oriented learning environment for these leaders and the citizens of Pasco County in order to encourage an ex-change of ideas and generate enthusiasm for community growth and development.
The Leadership Pasco Newsletter is published quarterly. SINCE 1991, THE MISSION OF LEADERSHIP PASCO is to identify and recruit current or potential leaders of Pasco County, facilitate the development and interaction of those leaders, and to foster an issues-oriented learning environment for these leaders and the citizens of Pasco County in order to encourage an ex-change of ideas and generate enthusiasm for community growth and development.
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<strong>Newsletter</strong><br />
<strong>Spring</strong> <strong>2023</strong><br />
Class of <strong>2023</strong><br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong>'s newest team is making their mark
To Our <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Family,<br />
“Alone we can do so little, together we can do<br />
so much,” said Helen Keller. I am privileged to<br />
serve as President of the <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Board<br />
of Directors alongside a tremendous group of<br />
individuals. There is no doubt we have done<br />
so much together this year. I am blessed to be<br />
part of this organization surrounded by so many<br />
individuals who dedicate their time and talents<br />
to <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> and its mission. Thank you<br />
to all the past and present members of the board<br />
for providing a clear vision for our organization.<br />
We could not host this program each year without our generous sponsors and program day<br />
organizers and leaders. Thank you for your service to our organization.<br />
Special thanks to the Alumni Engagement Committee for hosting the inaugural Jingle &<br />
Mingle Holiday event in December. The event was an opportunity to meet up with alumni<br />
during the holiday season. In addition, those in attendance brought unwrapped gifts and toys<br />
for distribution to children in our community through the Toys for Tots program. Thank you to<br />
the sponsors for your support of this event. See page seven for photos. We look forward to this<br />
becoming an annual event for members of <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong>!<br />
This year’s class is a wonderful group of individuals from across <strong>Pasco</strong> County representing<br />
private and public industries, profit and non profit organizations, and government agencies<br />
throughout <strong>Pasco</strong>. The Class of <strong>2023</strong> is hosting an Alumni event on April 20th at Glory Days -<br />
See the inside back cover for more information including how to RSVP. It’s a time for alumni to<br />
meet members of the current class while reliving your Glory Days as members of the program.<br />
What class will have the best turnout? I am calling on all members of the Class of 2016 - “East<br />
to West, 16 is Best” to attend.<br />
In addition, the class engaged in the planning of their fundraiser Clays of Sunrise of <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
County on May 5th at Tampa Bay Shooting Clays. See the back cover for more event details<br />
and sponsorship opportunities.<br />
Congratulations to the members of the Youth <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Class of <strong>2023</strong>. Graduation<br />
was held in March and each student was able to share something about their experience. It<br />
was wonderful to hear from so many students regarding their newfound love for <strong>Pasco</strong> County.<br />
There is no doubt many of these graduates will become leaders in our community & beyond.<br />
Special thanks to Barbara DeSimone ‘96, Rob Aguis ‘01, and Ben Diel ‘16 for spearheading<br />
another successful program this year.<br />
We will celebrate the graduating members of the <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Class of <strong>2023</strong> on<br />
Thursday, May 25th at the Spartan Manor. Reminders/invitations for the graduation will be<br />
sent out soon so keep an eye on your email. Which Program Day will win the coveted trophy<br />
this year? Be sure to attend and see for yourself.<br />
Finally, as alumni we look to each of you to spread the word about <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong>! The<br />
recruitment committee is taking applications for the Class of 2024. If you know someone who<br />
can benefit from the program, please direct them to our website. Deadline is May 15th.<br />
Tara O'Connor, Class of 2016<br />
President, <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
Managing Partner, O'Connor Law Group PA<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong><br />
<strong>Pasco</strong><br />
<strong>Newsletter</strong><br />
SINCE 1991, THE MISSION OF LEADERSHIP<br />
PASCO is to identify and recruit current or potential<br />
leaders of <strong>Pasco</strong> County, facilitate the development<br />
and interaction of those leaders, and to foster an issues-oriented<br />
learning environment for these leaders<br />
and the citizens of <strong>Pasco</strong> County in order to encourage<br />
an exchange of ideas and generate enthusiasm<br />
for community growth and development.<br />
The <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> <strong>Newsletter</strong> is published quarterly.<br />
Please direct correspondence about this publication<br />
to <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong>, P.O. Box 695, Elfers, FL,<br />
34680. Readers also may reach staff by sending an<br />
email to administration@leadershippasco.com.<br />
Editorial Staff<br />
Amanda Hart '14<br />
Editor<br />
Tara O'Connor '16<br />
Editor<br />
Jason Longo '17<br />
Design<br />
Photo Credits<br />
J. David Wright '20 (Pages 5, 7, 10, 11, 14)<br />
Board Members<br />
Don Anderson '16<br />
Chuck Anderson '20<br />
Carla Armstrong '14<br />
Gary Burden '19<br />
Angel Cook '18, Secretary<br />
Angie Gardner '11<br />
Brendan Gorman '18, President Elect<br />
Kim Hamm '15<br />
Amanda Hart '14<br />
Laura Knight '22<br />
William Labbancz '22<br />
Crystal Lazar '13<br />
Manny Long '16, 21-22 President, Treasurer<br />
Kathy Masucci '22<br />
Tara O'Connor '16, President<br />
Thomas O'Connor Bruno '20<br />
Joseph Poblick '14<br />
Laura Raposa '19<br />
Kim Rymanowski '19<br />
Debbie Shackowski '20<br />
James Walters '15<br />
SPRING <strong>2023</strong> NEWSLETTER<br />
© <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong>. All rights reserved.
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Meet the Class of <strong>2023</strong><br />
A Message from the Class Officers<br />
Judith Rochelle Award Presented to Amanda<br />
Hart '14<br />
Class of <strong>2023</strong> Photos<br />
Sponsor Spotlight: Blackjack Media Group<br />
Jingle and Mingle, a Wonderful Holiday Tradition<br />
Begins<br />
Education Day Experiences<br />
Youth <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Wraps Up for <strong>2023</strong><br />
Class of 2022 Project Success<br />
Ride Along Photos from Class of <strong>2023</strong><br />
Class Notes<br />
Sponsors<br />
4G Ranch, LLC<br />
Alfonso Hersch, P.A.<br />
Ba Da Boom Fireworks<br />
BankFlorida<br />
Bene's Career Academy<br />
Blackjack Media Group<br />
Coastal Bay Wealth Management<br />
Duke Energy<br />
Graybar<br />
Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce<br />
Greater <strong>Pasco</strong> Chamber of Commerce<br />
Kouwenhoven Enterprises, LLC<br />
Land O' Lakes High School Culinary Arts Program<br />
Laporte, Mulligan & Werner-Watkins, P.A.<br />
Merrell Bros., Inc.<br />
Micro Solutions<br />
Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Esq., Clerk & Comptroller<br />
O'Connor Law Group, P.A.<br />
Olga's Bakery<br />
Olympus Limo, Inc.<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> County Clerk & Comptroller<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> Economic Development Council<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> Education Foundation<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> County Sheriff's Office<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> Hernando State College<br />
Phillips & Jordan, Inc.<br />
Pontlitz Asset Advisors<br />
Saint Leo University<br />
Simpson Lakes<br />
Sunshine Consulting Group<br />
TECO Energy, Inc.<br />
Time Trap Escape Room<br />
The Bank of Tampa<br />
United Way of <strong>Pasco</strong> County<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
1
Meet the Class of <strong>2023</strong><br />
We all agree, the best is '23<br />
Susan Avon Director, Space Planning & Programming Moffitt Cancer Center<br />
Samuel Boundy Assistant County Attorney <strong>Pasco</strong> County Attorney's Office<br />
Nick Carideo Director, Operations Morton Plant North Bay Hospital<br />
Armand A. Scott Cerrone Equities Trader Cerrone Enterprises<br />
Paul Conley Executive Director Tampa Metro YMCA<br />
Katie Duncan Marketing Manager AdventHealth Dade City and AdventHealth Zephyrhills<br />
Cortney Gantt Assistant Superintendent <strong>Pasco</strong> County Schools<br />
Jamie Hamilton Development Manager RISE<br />
Tracy Hanson President Caterpillars to Butterflies Charitable Foundation<br />
Steven Hoschak National SBA Business Development Officer, Vice President American Momentum Bank<br />
Mary Beth Isaacson Assistant Director of Libraries <strong>Pasco</strong>-Hernando State College<br />
Elizabeth Klein Project Manager Gilbane Building Company<br />
Missy LaPorte VP-Commercial Banker SouthState Bank<br />
Robyn Liska Regional Director Habitat for Humanity, Pinellas and West <strong>Pasco</strong> Counties<br />
Holly McDowall Marketing Coordinator <strong>Pasco</strong> Economic Development Council<br />
Marina McLoone Recruitment Manager Suncoast Clinical Research<br />
Jason Mickel Director <strong>Pasco</strong> County Utilities<br />
Sara Mollo Public Defender 6th Judicial Circuit Public Defender<br />
Kim Moore Assistant Superintendent for Career and Innovative Programs <strong>Pasco</strong> County Schools<br />
Joy O'Reilly Realtor Orca Homes, LLC<br />
Melissa Parks Director of Development and Marketing Habitat for Humanity of East and Central <strong>Pasco</strong> County<br />
Ashley Policastri Business Development Director Interstruct<br />
Georgina Rivera-Singletary Associate Professor Saint Leo University<br />
Toni Roach Captain-Behavioral Health <strong>Pasco</strong> Sheriff’s Office<br />
Johnny Santos Director of Operations Wharton-Smith, Inc.<br />
Raenell Shirley Executive Director Be a Light Mission Service Center Inc<br />
Elizabeth Statzer Director Vincent House <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
Wendy Villa Director of Career Technical Education, Program Outreach <strong>Pasco</strong>-Hernando State College<br />
Michael Whitten Senior Director of Member Engagement YMCA of the Suncoast - James P. Gills YMCA<br />
David Williams Record and Support Services Assistant Director <strong>Pasco</strong> County Clerk and Comptroller<br />
Bill Yingling Team Leader, Realtor The Yingling Team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida<br />
Properties Group<br />
SPRING <strong>2023</strong> NEWSLETTER
A Message from the Class of <strong>2023</strong> Officers<br />
By Steven Hoschak '23 and Paul Conley '23<br />
The class of <strong>2023</strong> has had an incredible year so far. We have<br />
each learned so much about our emerging county and have<br />
also built some long lasting bonds along the way. We recently<br />
completed our education day and it was truly impressive to see<br />
the focus <strong>Pasco</strong> has on its school system and infrastructure. This<br />
is an exciting time to be a resident of this county, especially if you<br />
have young children that will get to experience the one of a kind<br />
education <strong>Pasco</strong> has to offer. We will be completing our last class<br />
in May which will be focused on <strong>Pasco</strong> Government!<br />
The class of <strong>2023</strong> has picked Sunrise of <strong>Pasco</strong> County as the<br />
benefactor of this year’s fundraising efforts. Our class will be<br />
helping raise money to construct a foundation and kennel area<br />
for the animals that accompany many of the individuals who<br />
use Sunrises services. We will be hosting our fundraising event<br />
at Tampa Sporting Clays on May 5th and are currently signing<br />
up sponsors and putting together teams! We are excited to help<br />
Sunrise and are looking forward to a well-attended and fun event<br />
on Cinco De Mayo!<br />
Warm Regards,<br />
Steven Hoschak<br />
Class of <strong>2023</strong> President<br />
Paul Conley<br />
Class of <strong>2023</strong> Vice President<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
3
Judith Rochelle Award Presented to<br />
Amanda Hart '14<br />
By Bob Memoli '05 and Jason Longo ’17<br />
distinction was unanimous. We included her company Blackjack<br />
Media as our Sponsor Spotlight on page six, because they not only<br />
offer monetary sponsorship, but provide much-appreciated in-kind<br />
printing and design services often with little notice. Congratulations<br />
and thank you for your service, Amanda Hart.<br />
In 2001 the Judith Rochelle award was established by the Board of Directors<br />
of <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong>. The award was named after Judith Rochelle<br />
who was very instrumental in the early days of <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> to put<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> on the map. Judith who writes books was herself very<br />
involved in making our community strong and cohesive.<br />
The first recipient was Harold Sample (Class of 1991) in 2001 who to this<br />
day has had a never-ending commitment to <strong>Pasco</strong> County and <strong>Leadership</strong><br />
<strong>Pasco</strong>. Harold was the epidemy of what Judith Rochelle was and is in<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> County.<br />
This is an annual award is determined by a committee of past Judith<br />
Rochelle Award recipients. It is felt that these past recipients know exactly<br />
what it takes to receive this prestigious award and recognition.<br />
Amanda Hart '14 was announced as th 2022 Judith Rochelle<br />
Award winner during the class-run alumni event, in order to keep<br />
the surprise from such an involved Board Member.<br />
The Judith Rochelle award shall be made to an alumni member of<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> who has demonstrated during their participation in the<br />
organization a commitment to making <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> a success. Criteria<br />
to be considered include attendance at board meetings and/or events,<br />
participation in <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> fundraising or charitable events, a<br />
commitment to promote the ideals of <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> in the community,<br />
committing time of 5 years or more.<br />
Amanda was elected to the Board of DIrectors in 2018, and<br />
has contributed enourmously ever since, both as a sponsor,<br />
and a volunteer leader. She currently chairs the newsletter<br />
and sponsorship committees; is a member of the social media,<br />
marketing, and alumni committees; and co-chairs both<br />
orientation and graduation.<br />
She attends the full-range of <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> events and is an<br />
active participant at board meetings and on additional committees.<br />
Amanda represents <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> at every possible opportunity<br />
and is a great advocate for both sponsors/partners, and potential<br />
class members.<br />
Amanda was nominated by her peers, and support for this<br />
Award Recipient History<br />
2022 Amanda Hart '14<br />
2021 Nichole "Nikki" Alvarez-Sowles '13<br />
2020 Stefanie Pontlitz '13<br />
2019 Kim Bogart '10<br />
2018 Tina Shelton '09<br />
2017 Heather Grimes '11<br />
2016 Tom Celotto '11<br />
2015 Bob Memoli '05<br />
2014 Craig Laporte '06<br />
2013 Rob Aguis '01<br />
2012 Evie Parks '00<br />
2011 Chuck Hollweg '04<br />
2010 Jill Corriveau '05<br />
2009 Stone & Parker CPA<br />
2008 Barbara DeSimone '96<br />
2007 Jerry Sterner '92<br />
2006 Michele Baker '97<br />
2005 Kurt Conover '92<br />
2004 Jennifer Smith '91<br />
2003 Chuck Bellerose '92<br />
2002 Kurt Browning '96<br />
2001 Harold Sample '91<br />
SPRING <strong>2023</strong> NEWSLETTER
Class of <strong>2023</strong> Photos<br />
www.<strong>Leadership</strong><strong>Pasco</strong>.com<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
5
Sponsor Spotlight: Blackjack Media Group<br />
By Amanda Hart '14<br />
Blackjack Media Group opened its doors in 2006, celebrating 17<br />
years in business. Blackjack Media Group is a Full-Service Advertising<br />
and Vehicle Wrap Company, specializing in fleet, vehicle<br />
and Marine wraps. While also offering all facets of marketing<br />
your business in our ever-changing world. The company has<br />
exclusive rights to <strong>Pasco</strong> and Polk County Public Transportation<br />
Advertising contracts. Many of their clients are business owners<br />
or new businesses that are looking to brand or rebrand their companies.<br />
Owners, Brian and Amanda Hart work full-time in and on<br />
the business and take great pride in their work. Amanda shared<br />
that their customers start as clients and turn into friends!<br />
Brian and Amanda Hart grew up in <strong>Pasco</strong> County and their<br />
roots run deep. Giving back to the community has become one<br />
of the core values of their lives and company. Amanda has been<br />
involved with many local organizations and are committed to<br />
contributing to the incredible growth our hometown is enjoying.<br />
They are so proud to watch their three children carry these values<br />
with them, follow in their footsteps, and form relationships that<br />
last..<br />
Blackjack Media Group can be reached via phone or text to (727)<br />
858-BJMG or by visiting them on FB or Blackjackmg.com<br />
SPRING <strong>2023</strong> NEWSLETTER
Jingle and Mingle, a Wonderful Holiday<br />
Tradition Begins<br />
By Kathy Masucci ’22<br />
In December, we closed out the year with a Jingle and Mingle<br />
holiday party. The festivities were attended by approximately<br />
100 alumni. The <strong>Spring</strong> Hill Suites was transformed into a winter<br />
wonderland. We shared fabulous conversation, great food, festive<br />
holiday treats and a few cocktails. The photo booth was a<br />
crowd favorite, and we have the photos to prove it!<br />
We appreciate the efforts of the commitee members that planned<br />
and hosted this <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> party: Chuck Anderson '20,<br />
Don Anderson '16, Carla Armstrong '14, Angie Gardner '11, Kim<br />
Hamm '15, Laura Knight '22, William Labbancz '22, Jason Longo<br />
'17, Kathy Masucci '22, and Tara O'Connor '16.<br />
See you at Jingle and Mingle 23!<br />
Sponsors<br />
Ba Da Boom Fireworks<br />
The Bank of Tampa<br />
Graybar<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
O'Connor Law Group, P.A.<br />
<strong>Spring</strong>hill Suites by Marriott<br />
Time Trap Escape Room<br />
United Way of <strong>Pasco</strong> County<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
7
Local Experts Create an Expansive and Innovative<br />
Experience at Education Day<br />
By Laura Raposa ’19<br />
On March 23, <strong>2023</strong>, the <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Class of <strong>2023</strong><br />
participated in Education Day. The class started their day at<br />
Land O’Lakes High School with a greeting from <strong>Pasco</strong> County<br />
Schools Superintendent, Kurt Browning (LP Class of ’96).<br />
Following Superintendent Browning, the class received greetings<br />
from the <strong>Pasco</strong> Education Foundation, the Early Learning<br />
Coalition of <strong>Pasco</strong> and Hernando Counties, and After School<br />
Enrichment Programs. Then the group set off on a bus tour of<br />
Central <strong>Pasco</strong> County schools.<br />
The first stop on the bus tour was Sanders Memorial Elementary<br />
School. The group met with Assistant Principal, Kim Hedgspeth,<br />
her staff and students and got to see a 3rd grade pod in action.<br />
The next stop was Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation where<br />
the class met with Principal, Danielle Johnson and toured the<br />
campus. The class also met with Dr. Jeff Skowronek from Pepin<br />
Academies while at Kirkland Ranch. The next stop was Cypress<br />
Creek Middle School where the group was met by Tim Light,<br />
Principal, and toured their campus and black box theater.<br />
Finally, the day wrapped up with the new Instructional Performing<br />
Arts Center at <strong>Pasco</strong>-Hernando State College. The group met<br />
with Campus Provost, Dr. Davina Jones and Executive Director,<br />
Dr. Lauren Murray. They toured the campus and learned about<br />
the programs being offered.<br />
On the bus to and from stops, the group learned more about<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> County Schools. Presentations on the bus included JoAnne<br />
Glenn, Principal of the new Angeline Academy of Innovation;<br />
Steve Hagerty, Public Information Officer; Chris Williams,<br />
Director of Planning and Mike Baumaister, Chief of Safety and<br />
Emergency Operations.<br />
Here are a few quotes from the Class of <strong>2023</strong> about what they<br />
found most valuable during Education Day:<br />
“Learning how well our schools are doing in <strong>Pasco</strong> County. Very<br />
impressive. Very different than the schools I grew up in. Our next<br />
generation is going to be out of this world.”<br />
“Visit to the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation was<br />
impressive!”<br />
“Site visits to schools/tours I had no idea the amount of<br />
programming available to students beyond a general diploma.”<br />
Thank you to our Education Day sponsors: O’Connor Law<br />
Group, <strong>Pasco</strong> Education Foundation and<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong>-Hernando State College.<br />
SPRING <strong>2023</strong> NEWSLETTER
Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation Principal, Danielle Johnson addresses the class of leaders.<br />
Class members Armand A. Scott Cerrone equities trader and Dr. Kim Moore, Assistant Superintendant for Career and Innovtive Programs, <strong>Pasco</strong> County<br />
Schools visiting Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation and enjoying Education Day.<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
9
Graduation Day for Youth <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Class of <strong>2023</strong>..<br />
Youth <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Wraps Up for <strong>2023</strong><br />
By Barbara De Simone '96<br />
The Youth <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Class of <strong>2023</strong> celebrated their<br />
graduation at a breakfast on March 7, <strong>2023</strong> at Timber Greens<br />
Country Club. More than 100 sponsors, school officials, parents<br />
and <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Board members were there to cheer on the<br />
graduating students: Arossa Adhikary, William Beaty, Amaya<br />
Beebe, Evan Burrell, Lindsee Byrne, Bailey Chandler, Andrew Chiarenza,<br />
Angelica Chirino, Kasey Davitt, Shalee Drummond, Emily<br />
Ellstrom, Sarah Gage, Sebastian Gallaher, Laurel Hermansen,<br />
Logan Koslin, Katya La Costa, John Legg, Tessa Mast, Robert<br />
McDonald, Joshua Moua, Rohan Murthi, Logan Owens, Chelsey<br />
Peace, Karolina Porcelli, Madeline Reynolds, Miguel Rosario, Annelise<br />
Russo, Selena Schulz, Baird Stanton, Sarah Streeter, Diya<br />
Tharun, Rachel Watson, Derrick Williams and Autumn Winstead.<br />
Youth <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> is a leadership development program<br />
that informs, motivates, and increases the awareness of selected<br />
high school aged students through issue-oriented seminars and<br />
interaction with community leaders. Sessions include Orientation<br />
and Team Building, Law Enforcement, Health Care/Community<br />
Services, Government/Economic Development and Education.<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> is able to keep the student fee at $35 due to<br />
generous support from our sponsors: the Law Office of Tara<br />
O’Connor, United Way of <strong>Pasco</strong> County, <strong>Pasco</strong> Hernando State<br />
College, Fred K. Marchman Technical College, Morton Plant<br />
North Bay Hospital, <strong>Pasco</strong> County Sheriff’s Office, <strong>Pasco</strong> Education<br />
Foundation and the Rotary Clubs of Trinity, Seven <strong>Spring</strong>s,<br />
New Port Richey, Holiday, Hudson, and West <strong>Pasco</strong> Sunset. We<br />
appreciate them.<br />
Sponsors<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
Fred K. Marchman Technical College<br />
Morton Plant North Bay Hospital<br />
O'Connor Law Group, P.A.<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> Hernando State College<br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> Education Foundation<br />
Rotary Club of Dade City Noon<br />
Rotary Club of Holiday<br />
Rotary Club of Hudson<br />
Rotary Club of New Port Richey<br />
Rotary Club of Seven <strong>Spring</strong>s<br />
Rotary Club of Trinity<br />
Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon<br />
Rotary Club of West <strong>Pasco</strong> Sunset<br />
United Way of <strong>Pasco</strong> County<br />
Applications for the Class of 2024 will open for Sophomores and<br />
Juniors at the beginning of the school year.<br />
SPRING <strong>2023</strong> NEWSLETTER
"Not only did Youth <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> show<br />
me insight on the many responsibilities in the<br />
county, but it also made me feel important.<br />
Being able to be apart of this program gave me<br />
a sense of belonging as well as giving me an<br />
inclination that I too could make change for the<br />
better." - Joshua Moua (Pictured above)<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
11
Class of 2022 Project Raised $35,378 for the Girl<br />
Scouts of West Central Florida<br />
By Kathy Masucci ’22<br />
When determining a class project, we decided to reach out to<br />
our community through an RFP process. Multiple organizations<br />
sent in their packages and our designated committee narrowed<br />
them down. The next step was a virtual meeting with the finalists,<br />
followed by a class vote. We came together with the decision<br />
of supporting The Girl Scouts. They needed a complete kitchen<br />
remodel at their Indian Echo Campground.<br />
There were two ways our class helped the Girl Scouts with their<br />
remodel. One was a fundraising event, and the other was our<br />
class volunteers assisting in the demolition of the current kitchen.<br />
Our fundraising event was, Clays for the Community. We<br />
organized a Clay Shoot Tournament and raised $35,378 for the<br />
Girl Scouts. Our clay shoot included sponsors throughout <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
County and the Tampa Bay Region. We were blessed with beautiful<br />
weather, great food and wonderful people. We surpassed<br />
our goal and the Girl Scouts expectations and were able provide<br />
even more amenities for them then we initially thought.<br />
The next step was the demolition of the existing kitchen. We<br />
gathered numerous classmates and put in some good old fashion<br />
sweat equity. We worked side by side with the Girl Scout Facilities<br />
Department and had a great demo day!<br />
The end result…brand new kitchen for the Girl Scouts! Really so<br />
much more!<br />
During this process we came together, grew closer and built<br />
stronger relationships that will last, while being able to help a<br />
great organization that serves so many wonderful people.<br />
SPRING <strong>2023</strong> NEWSLETTER
Law Enforcement Ride Along Photos from<br />
Class of <strong>2023</strong><br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
13
36th Annual Chasco Coronation Ball<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> sponsored Stefanie Pontlitz '13 (pictured with husband Derek Pontlitz '11) and Don Anderson '16 (pictured with wife Colleen Stewart Anderson) as nominees<br />
for Queen Chasco and King Pithla at the 36th Annual Chasco Coronation Ball, a fundraiser for Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind.<br />
Class of 2024<br />
www.<strong>Leadership</strong><strong>Pasco</strong>.com<br />
SPRING <strong>2023</strong> NEWSLETTER
Class Notes<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> welcomes our newest members to the<br />
Board of Directors,<br />
Gary Burden '19, (Vice President, CenterState Bank), Laura<br />
Knight '22 (Senior Associate, United Way of <strong>Pasco</strong>), William<br />
Labbancz '22, (Broker owner, Sailwinds Realty), Kathy<br />
Masucci '22, (Business Development Manager, Graybar),<br />
Debi Shackowsky '20 (Founder, Marjories Hope)<br />
Congratulations to the following board members on being<br />
hoonored with Director Emeritus(a) status by the Board of<br />
Directors. Directors who served on the Board with distinction and<br />
excellence may be considered for Director Emeritus status with<br />
recommendation by the Past President's Council and vote of the<br />
Board. Nichole “Nikki” Alvarez-Sowles, Esquire '13 (Clerk &<br />
Comptroller, <strong>Pasco</strong> County), James Mallo '13 (Major, <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
County Sheriffs Office), Stefanie Pontlitz '13 (Executive<br />
Director/CEO, Lighthouse for the Visibly Impaired and Blind).<br />
Rob Aguis '01, in January accepted a position with the<br />
Department of Juvenile Justice. My new job title is Deputy<br />
Director for Career and Technical Education (CTE) for the<br />
Department of DJJ in the Office of Educational Services. My<br />
charge is to develop and implement Career and Technical<br />
Education programs across the state in the DJJ system to<br />
provide opportunities for students to gain career interests,<br />
develop workforce ready skills and earn industry recognized<br />
credentials. Additionally, the goal is to provide relevant<br />
secondary and postsecondary opportunities for students in<br />
residential facilities to help them become productive members<br />
of the workforce, in their local communities and succeed in<br />
college, career and life.<br />
Kim Bogart '10 retired from nearly 40 years of law<br />
enforcement experience, last serving as New Port Richey Chief<br />
of Police.<br />
Gary Bradford '22 was elected <strong>Pasco</strong> County Commissioner,<br />
District 4 in November.<br />
Angel Cook '18 (Leaders Insurance Company) is currently<br />
serving as Secretary of the <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Board of<br />
Directors.<br />
Brandan Gorman '18 (Laporte, Mulligan, & Werner-Watkins)<br />
is currently President Elect of the <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Board of<br />
Directors.<br />
Abby Hamilton '16 (Everglades University) authored the book<br />
Speak Up, Anak: Assertiveness Strategies for Filipino Americans.<br />
Laura Knight '22 (United Way of <strong>Pasco</strong>) had her first child.<br />
Logan Stephen Knight born in February to Laura Knight '22 and her husband<br />
Jordan celebrated his first Easter.<br />
Manny Long '16 (First National Bank of <strong>Pasco</strong>) is now<br />
Treasurer of the <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Board of Directors and<br />
in February became Chief Financial Officer for the First<br />
National Bank of <strong>Pasco</strong>.<br />
Kelly Mothershead '17 (Keller Williams Realty) was elected<br />
to the New Port Richey City Council in April 2022.<br />
Tara O'Connor '16 (O'Connor Law Group) is currently<br />
President of the <strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong> Board of Directors.<br />
Julie Rogers '16 (Progressive Air Systems) was crowned<br />
Queen Chasco in March.<br />
In Memoriam<br />
Scott Byrnes '12<br />
Gary Scarsbrook '19<br />
Email administration@leadershippasco.com to submit<br />
accomplishments, marriages, engagements, births, and<br />
memoriam information. We will continue to share in this newsletter.<br />
Amanda Hart '14 (Blackjack Media) is the 2022 <strong>Leadership</strong><br />
<strong>Pasco</strong> Judith Rochelle Award winner.<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
15
MAY 5TH, <strong>2023</strong> | 8 A.M.<br />
JOIN LEADERSHIP PASCO FOR A CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA CLAY SHOOT BENEFITING SUNRISE OF PASCO COUNTY.<br />
SUNRISE IS LEADING OUR COMMUNITY TO CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH DOMESTIC AND SEXUAL<br />
VIOLENCE DOES NOT EXIST. SUNRISE OF PASCO COUNTY HAS AN INITIATIVE TO FUNDRAISE $20,000 TO BUILD AN<br />
ANIMAL SHELTER ON THEIR PROPERTY SO DOMESTIC ABUSE SURVIVORS DO NOT HAVE TO LEAVE THEIR PETS<br />
BEHIND. OUR ANNUAL CLAY SHOOT FUNDS BENEFIT THIS CAUSE DIRECTLY.<br />
SPONSORSHIP LEVELS:<br />
Clay Buster Sponsor $1,500<br />
1- FOUR PERSON TEAM<br />
1 STATION SIGN<br />
RECOGNITION ON SOCIAL MEDIA & BANNER<br />
TEAM PHOTO<br />
Shotgun Team Sponsor $1,000<br />
1- FOUR PERSON TEAM<br />
TEAM PHOTO<br />
How you can help<br />
Title Sponsor $3,500<br />
2- FOUR PERSON TEAMS<br />
RECOGNITION ON SOCIAL MEDIA & BANNER<br />
1 STATION SIGN<br />
TEAM PHOTO<br />
INVITE TO CHECK PRESENTATION FOR SUNRISE<br />
Food Sponsor $1,500<br />
1 STATION SIGN<br />
Additional Sponsorship Levels<br />
AWARD SPONSOR $550<br />
STATION SIGN SPONSOR $200<br />
TAMPA BAY SPORTING CLAYS<br />
INDIVIDUAL<br />
SHOOTER<br />
$250<br />
Includes:<br />
50 SHELLS (12 OR 20 GA)<br />
50 CLAY TARGETS<br />
GOLF CART RENTAL<br />
EAR PROTECTION<br />
CINCO DE MAYO LUNCH<br />
GUN RENTAL AVAILABLE<br />
ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST<br />
WEAR EYE PROTECTION<br />
(SUNGLASSES OR RX OK)<br />
Participate in a:<br />
50/50 RAFFLE<br />
SILENT AUCTION<br />
THE SUNLAKE HIGH SCHOOL CIVIL AIR PATROL US AIR FORCE AUX SQUADRON WILL PRESENT THE COLORS.<br />
REGISTER AT:<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong><strong>Pasco</strong>.com<br />
<strong>Leadership</strong> <strong>Pasco</strong><br />
LEADERSHIPPASCO.COM<br />
17<br />
Tampa Bay Sporting Clays: 10514 Ehren Cutoff | land O' Lakes