/Users/bfitterer/Desktop/february desktop/website/logoshutter.jpg

  • Portfolio
  • About
  • Contact
  • Instagram
  • Archive
    • All Galleries
    • Search
    • Cart
    • Lightbox
    • Client Area
Show Navigation
All Galleries
Download

Nature Coast { 236 images } Created 5 Oct 2017

twitterlinkedinfacebook
Next
View: 100 | All

Loading ()...

  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Luise and Peter Krause of Nuremberg Germany take a nude stroll down a nature trail at Lake Como Family Nudist Resort in Lutz Wednesday during a visit there. The couple was being filmed by a crew for an upcoming documentary on nudist lifestyles on the German television channel Vox
    13244933.JPG
  • PT_297889_FITT_wkdine_5<br />
BRENDAN FITTERER| Times<br />
(11/24/2008 Wesley Chapel)<br />
The Brass Tap in The Shops at Wiregrass offers beer, wine and cigars. They have 40 beers on tap, 210 bottled beers, 25 wines and a dozen different fine cigars. Patio seating is available as well.
    3593834.JPG
  • PT_297889_FITT_wkdine_4 (11/24/2008 Wesley Chapel) The Brass Tap in The Shops at Wiregrass offers beer, wine and cigars. They have 40 beers on tap, 210 bottled beers, 25 wines and a dozen different fine cigars.
    3614647.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times <br />
Big Storm Brewery co-owners Clay Yarn, left, and Mike Bishop have expanded significantly since they opened. A year and a half ago, Big Storm beer was on tap at 15 bars across Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. Now they're in about 100 bars, Bishop said, on both coasts and as far south as Key West, and throughout the entire Tampa Bay area.
    12103378.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times <br />
Big Storm's Oats in Hose oatmeal stout, right, and PalmBender Pale Ale are both available on tap at Big Storm Brewery in Odessa.
    12131328.JPG
  • PT 119988 - - DELIVER TO:  - - 3/22/2001 - - New Port Richey CAPTION INFO: (PLEASE LEAVE WARM TONES) The warm glow of fire illuminates Brisa Salinas ( cq name from her sister), an Aztec Indian,  as she performs in the "snake of fire" dance for the crowd gathered Thursday evening at the 79th annual Chasco Fiesta in New Port Richey.  - - Times Photo by: Brendan Fitterer - - Story By:  - - SCANNED BY: BTF - - RUN DATE: 3/24/2001
    557506.JPG
  • PT_336442_FITT_chasco<br />
BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times (IMAGING: PLEASE PRESERVE WARM TONES)<br />
(03/24/2011 New Port Richey) Arvel Bird, the American Indian flutist and fiddler known as the "Lord of the Strings," performs Thursday night to kick off the Chasco Fiesta, Pasco's oldest, largest and longest festival. <br />
BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times
    7032180.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
The Tornado and other carnival amusements remain open through the final weekend of the 2015 Chasco Fiesta, which, has been held continuously since 1947 making the 2015 event the 69th continuous. If you haven't made it out to Chaso Fiesta there's still time to get out before the 9-day event wraps up Saturday (28) in historic downtown New Port Richey. Some highlights include the West Pasco Sertoma Chicken BBQ on Friday and Saturday (27-28) and the boat parade down the Pithlachascotee that should reach Sims Park around 1 p.m. Saturday. Carnival rides will be running for thrill seekers, and the musically inclined might want to mosey out for a free concert featuring Beatles tribute band Hard Day's Night on Friday followed by the 21st Annual Country Concert on Saturday with headliner Frankie Ballard and special guest, Craig Wayne Boyd. For a full schedule of events and information on ticket prices for the country concert, go to www.chascofiesta.com.
    14913127.JPG
  • PT 119999 - - DELIVER TO: Pasco - - 3/24/2001 - - New Port Richey - - CAPTION INFO:  The large crowd gathered for the afternoon parade spills into the street Saturday in New Port Richey during the Chasco Fiesta. Times Photo by: Brendan Fitterer Story By: Fitterer - - SCANNED BY: BTF - - RUN DATE: 3/25/2001
    558019.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
PT_327165_FITT_tiger_2 (08/20/2010 Dade City) <br />
Kathy Stearns, owner of Stearns Zoological Rescue & Rehab Center in Dade City, holds Jay Jay, a teeny month-old snow macaque.
    6031503.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
PT_327165_FITT_tiger_3 (08/20/2010 Dade City) <br />
Diamond, an 8-week old white tiger, peeks out of her enclosed stroller she travels the grounds in at Dade City's Wild Things zoo. The mesh enclosure provides a feeling of security along with a view of her surroundings.<br />
BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times
    PT_327165_FITT_tiger_3.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
PT_327165_FITT_tiger_1 (08/20/2010 Dade City) <br />
Diamond, an 8-week-old white tiger, pounces through the grass at Dade City's Wild Things zoo. Though only 20 pounds now, the blue-eyed cat will grow to 600 pounds.<br />
BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times
    PT_327165_FITT_tiger_1.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Special to the Times<br />
Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel President and CEO Denyse Bales-Chubb stands for a portrait along the hospital's third floor atrium view Monday (2/6/17). Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel is the No. 1 employer in the large category for Top Workplaces this year.
    19056377.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Special to the Times<br />
Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel President and CEO Denyse Bales-Chubb stands for a portrait along the hospital's third floor atrium view Monday (2/6/17). Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel is the No. 1 employer in the large category for Top Workplaces this year.
    PT_408891_FREE_1_TWP_florid.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Special to the Times<br />
The Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel pediatric waiting area in the emergency room features a large fish tank, colorful decor, and interactive video games for guests. (Monday 2/6/17) Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel is the No. 1 employer in the large category for Top Workplaces this year.
    PT_408891_FREE_6_TWP_florid.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Special to the Times<br />
Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel assistant nurse manager Mariana Gordon says her workplace "feels like a family" Monday (2/6/17). Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel is the No. 1 employer in the large category for Top Workplaces this year.
    PT_408891_FREE_3_TWP_florid.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Special to the Times<br />
Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel is the No. 1 employer in the large category for Top Workplaces this year. (Monday 2/6/17).
    PT_408891_FREE_5_TWP_florid.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Jay Sanders with team Alter Ego leaves a trail of spray as he skims across the swoop pond at Skydive City during a practice jump Friday for The United States Parachute Association National Championships of Canopy Piloting May 21-23 at Skydive City in Zephyrhills. In canopy piloting competition, also known as swooping, pilots navigate a competition course over a swoop pond and compete in speed, landing accuracy and distance.
    13162502.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Jeannie Bartholomew with Team Alter Ego, and other competitors repack their chutes between practice jumps Friday for the upcoming United States Parachute Association National Championships of Canopy Piloting May 21-23 at Skydive City in Zephyrhills. In canopy piloting competition, also known as swooping, pilots navigate a competition course over a swoop pond and compete in speed, landing accuracy and distance.
    PT_383395_FITT_4_passkydive.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  | Times  (Hudson, FL 11/27/2012)<br />
PT_363374_FITT_tkhayes<br />
David "TK" Hayes, 51, is the general manager and part owner of Skydive City in Zephyrhills. He's one of the graduates earning a degree on Wednesday at Pasco Hernando Community College's graduation. <br />
BRENDAN FITTERER  | Times
    PT_363374_FITT_tkhayes.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
TJ Landgren packs into a Cessna 182 with three other skydivers and the pilot for a quick flight up to 5,000 feet during practice jumps for The United States Parachute Association National Championships of Canopy Piloting May 21-23 at Skydive City in Zephyrhills. In canopy piloting competition, also known as swooping, pilots navigate a competition course over a swoop pond and compete in speed, landing accuracy and distance.
    13168412.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Curt Bartholomew, the current world champion with Team Alter Ego, swoops in for an accuracy landing during a practice jump Friday in preparation for the upcoming  United States Parachute Association National Championships of Canopy Piloting May 21-23 at Skydive City in Zephyrhills. In canopy piloting competition, also known as swooping, pilots navigate a competition course over a swoop pond and compete in speed, landing accuracy, and distance.
    14079556.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  | Times<br />
U.S Special Operations Command Para-Commando coach Keith Walter, right, shakes hands with Army Sgt. Roosevelt Anderson at Skydive City in Zephyrhills Wednesday (2/25/15) morning. The team gathered to take wounded warriors on tandem skydives to give them the thrill of freefall while thanking them for their service to our country. The wounded warriors went through ground training, but fog and weather prevented any jumps on Wednesday. Anderson, of Chicago participated last year, and called the experience a "dream come true" as he was injured just days before jump school in the Army. At left is Rob Pickel of Fayetteville, a Green Beret wounded by a suicide vehicle IED in Pakistan.
    14764666.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Julious Hill unloads bins filled with kumquats as he prepares them for washing, sorting and packing at Kumquat Growers, Inc. Wednesday (1/14/15) morning. The annual Kumquat Festival is Saturday, Jan. 31 in downtown Dade City. The 2015 Open House will be held at the Kumquat Growers packing house in St. Joseph from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on Thursday Jan. 29 and Friday, Jan. 30.
    14502084.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
The historic Hacienda Hotel at 5621 Main Street in New Port Richey sits vacant with redevelopment plans underway.
    PT_391476_FITT_1_hacienda02.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
The historic Hacienda Hotel at 5621 Main Street in New Port Richey sits vacant with redevelopment plans underway as the New Port Richey City Council takes a tour of the property recently.
    14655530.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Father and son investors Yaakov Rosner and Abraham Rosner (left center) discuss redevelopment plans for the historic Hacienda Hotel on Main Street with New Port Richey Mayor Rob Marlowe, left, deputy mayor Judy DeBella Thomas, and economic development manager Mario Iezzoni, right, during a recent tour of the property.
    14655533.JPG
  • IMAGING NOTE: PLEASE PRESERVE SHADOWS AND SKY<br />
BRENDAN FITTERER  | Times<br />
The sun drops to the west silhouetting Springstead High pitcher Miguel Martinez through the concrete dugout as he warms up in the bullpen during practice Monday (2/23/15) evening.
    14756613.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  | Times<br />
Pedro Guevara, left, and Hugo Ramirez stack sheets of plywood as they do masonry work on the new building under construction at Quail Hollow Elementary School in Wesley Chapel Wednesday (2/11/15). Walbridge construction has gutted the existing building for a remodel in addition to the new facility.
    14719789.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Joe and Donna Giarratana are back in action at Papa Joe's Italian Restaurant in Brooksville (3/10/15). Longtime patrons filled the tables at lunch for their first day open since a fire destroyed the restaurant in January 2014.
    14836021.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
From left, HVAC manager Joe Rogers, manager Tanner Kielty, dispatch manager Crystal Schuler, and plumbing service manager Jesse Francher in the showroom at R.J. Kielty Plumbing, Heating & Cooling in Hudson Thursday (3/5/15).
    14807384.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
From left, dispatch manager Crystal Schuler, plumbing service manager Jesse Francher, HVAC manager Joe Rogers and manager Tanner Kielty line up for a friendly game of "toilet horse" (which is just like the basketball game) in the showroom at R.J. Kielty Plumbing, Heating & Cooling in Hudson Thursday (3/5/15).
    14807370.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Elizabeth Reasons shows the long, hair-like root structure below a floating panel of collards in the aquaponic garden that Sister Miriam Cosgrove runs at Holy Name Monastery in St. Leo.
    15010376.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Sister Miriam Cosgrove, left, and her part-time employee Elizabeth Reasons work together in the aquaponic garden in the greenhouse next to Holy Name Monastery in St. Leo Thursday 4/9/15. The "sustainable, self-sufficient fish farm" provides tilapia, lettuce, collards, tomatoes, and herbs among other items.
    15010388.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Anton Grooms, 10, presents his rabbit, Johnson, before longtime judge Marvin Cummings at the Hernando County Fair and Youth Livestock Show Friday 4/10//15.
    15010158.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Jacob Volberg, 10, presents his rabbit at the judging table during the junior division at the Hernando County Fair and Youth Livestock Show Friday 4/10/15.
    15010149.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Brandon Leininger, 10, holds Blackjack as he waits for judging at the Hernando County Fair and Youth Livestock Show Friday 4/10/15.
    15010156.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
John Leggio's Center for the Performing Arts presents "Sizzle" - May 29 - 30 at the Eleanor Dempsey Performing Arts Center at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School in Spring Hill. In the center are Brandon Woolridge, bottom, and Jasmine Smith.
    PT_394245_FITT_2_pasdiv_leg.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Sandhill cranes swoop in for a landing at the Cross Bar Ranch off of US 41 in Pasco County as students take a bus tour of the thousands of acres of land there during a visit to the Cross Bar Ranch Environmental Education Center Monday (6/1/15).
    15317911.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Seventh grade students from Pine View Middle School watch from a covered, open-air bus as deer pack the trail at Cross Bar Ranch while students enjoyed a tour guided by longtime environmental education instructor Jean Knight on Monday (6/1/15). It was Knight's final tour before retirement, having given thousands of students a glimpse of and education on the wilderness and marine life in their county over the course of a 37-year career with the Pasco School District.
    15317903.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Seventh grade students from Pine View Middle School lean in for a closer look at the creatures they scooped from Mud Lake at Cross Bar Ranch as longtime environmental education instructor Jean Knight identifies each one Monday (6/1/15). It was Knight's final group before retirement, having given thousands of students a glimpse of and education on the wilderness and marine life in their county over the course of a 37-year career with the Pasco School District.
    15317900.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Lifeguard Elizabeth Sewall walks the shoreline as people try out paddle boards and kayaks during a media preview of SunWest Park in Aripeka Wednesday (7/1/15). The park will open to the public for a soft launch Saturday July 4 with limited water activities, two swimming areas and 250 parking spaces. As expansion continues, the cable system for wake boarding will be installed.
    PT_395638_FITT_2_sunwest.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Employee Austin Runman tries the Wibit Aqua Park, which is like a floating obstacle course, during a media preview of SunWest Park in Aripeka Wednesday (7/1/15). The park will open to the public for a soft launch Saturday July 4 with limited water activities, two swimming areas and 250 parking spaces. As expansion continues, the cable system for wake boarding will be installed.
    PT_395638_FITT_5_sunwest.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Anclote Elementary student Isabelle DeJesus pays close attention as she gets a kayak paddling lesson from environmental education instructor Donna Hoague Wednesday (7/1/15) morning during camp at the Energy and Marine Center (EMC) in Port Richey.
    15485674.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Students from Anclote Elementary and Gulfside Elementary tour the waters around the Energy and Marine Center (EMC) in Port Richey Wednesday (7/1/15) morning during camp. The Pasco County School District offers kids in Title 1 schools the Pasco Environmental Adventure Camp Experience (PEACE). Children study the environment through a variety of engaging, hands-on activities while visiting different locations.
    15485637.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Environmental education instructor Donna Hoague, right, answers students questions during a morning lesson from the observation deck at the Energy and Marine Center (EMC) in Port Richey Wednesday (7/1/15). The Pasco County School District offers kids in Title 1 schools the Pasco Environmental Adventure Camp Experience (PEACE). Children study the environment through a variety of engaging, hands-on activities while visiting different locations.
    15485654.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Special to the Times<br />
Eco Dawgs program coordinator Dominique O'Connor, center, with Arianna Sharay, 10, on board, leads a pack of paddlers along the Pithlachascotee River Saturday (2/12/17) as part of Gill Dawg's Youth Paddling Program. The program is a hands on learning adventure that takes kids, ages 10-13, out on the water to learn about water safety, the local environment, history, and the importance of stewardship.
    18949227.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Dallas Creach, 8, right, and other children at Dade Oaks Apartments in Dade City pick out free books Tuesday (7/14/15) afternoon from the Pasco County School District's new book bus, that follows the free-meal lunch bus to area stops during the summer. The program provides children with free access to reading materials they might not otherwise have during the summer.
    15567714.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Thomas Rinaldo and his grandson, JoJo Goodison, float in a tube in front of the restored clamshell roof on the Mermaid Theater at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park Monday (7/20/15). The park just completed the first phase of its planned $8.7 million renovation, but there is little money to continue the plan, which is crucial to a park that is obviously in need of renovation, said the president of the park's friends group, Denise Tenuto. That's especially true because Gov. Rick Scott recently vetoed $250,000 that would have gone to the upgrades.
    15590165.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
After a quick stop in the Pasco School District's free lunch bus, Daniha Harris, 12, right, and other children in the Arbours at Fort King Apartments in Dade City pick out free books in the district's new book bus, background, Tuesday (7/14/15). The program follows the lunch bus to area stops, providing free reading materials to students during the summer.
    15567718.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  | Times<br />
Port Richey Police officer Pat Alu assists a resident with her dog and medications as residents are evacuated from high waters at the Suncoast Gateway Mobile Village in Port Richey as heavy rain and flooding continues in Pasco County Monday (8/3/15).
    PT_396635_FITT_12_pascofloo.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  | Times<br />
Suncoast Gateway Mobile Village resident Minnie Jaresky is evacuated by boat with the help of Florida Park Service's Cody Nolan, left, and Port Richey Fire Department's Javier Cuevas as heavy rain and flooding continues in Pasco County Monday (8/3/15).
    PT_396635_FITT_16_pascofloo.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Shane Madak with Frontier Hardwood Flooring of Dunedin tapes together sections of 1/4" closed cell foam Tuesday (8/25/15) that will provide additional cushion and moisture protection before the wood is installed on the new rink surface at SpinNations Skating Center in Port Richey following flooding that destroyed the floor in early August.
    15771726.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Hudson Elementary Assistant Principal Tracy Hlady talks with teachers as they tour the surrounding community where their students live aboard a school bus Monday (8/17/15) morning. Principal Tracy Graziaplene organized the tour to give the teachers a better idea of how their students live, and the obstacles some must overcome to achieve success. The faculty handed out new backpacks and school supplies to the children they encountered along the way.
    15725668.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Hudson Elementary teachers, from left, Ann Marie Asbel, Toni Melissa Navarro, and Jamie Snyder, hand out backpacks and school supplies to children as they tour the surrounding community where their students live aboard a school bus Monday (8/17/15) morning. Principal Tracy Graziaplene organized the tour to give the teachers a better idea of how their students live, and the obstacles some must overcome to achieve success. The faculty handed out new backpacks and school supplies to the children they encountered along the way.
    PT_397038_FITT_2_bustour081.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Clay Black with the Hernando County Department of Public Works demonstrates how to use the stencils as student volunteers, from left, Trey Haygood, 7, Samia McCauley, 7, and Douglas Jones, 9,  prepare to paint "Don't Dump Here, Drains to Lake" messages next to storm water drain covers along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Brooksville Thursday (8/20/15). The goal of the program is to help educate residents and visitors about water pollution and to reduce illegal dumping of trash, chemicals and oil into storm water drains.
    15766337.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Trey Haygood, 7, applies spray paint to a stencil outside a storm water drain along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in Brooksville Thusday (8/20/15) with fellow volunteers, from left, Jhayla Blake, 14, Jody Molter, Douglas Jones, 9, and Jhayda Blake, 14.  Participants stenciled "Don't Dump Here, Drains to Lake" messages to help educate residents and visitors about water pollution and to reduce illegal dumping of trash, chemicals and oil into storm water drains.
    15766332.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Andres Acosta, 8, works on a morning exercise, during his first day of third grade at Sanders Memorial Elementary, STEAM magnet school in Land O'Lakes Monday (8/24/15). Students learned that one of the school's guiding principles is "failing forward," a concept that encourages trying and making mistakes and learning and growing from them. It's one of many new ideas that have sprung from the Common Core Standards, now in its second year of full implementation in Florida. "Once you fail you can always try again," Acosta said.
    PT_397223_FITT_1_failforwar.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
The "Simon Pure" at Capital Tacos in Land O'Lakes features grilled portabella, black beans, street corn, pico, jack and cheddar cheeses, cilantro and bombero salsa.
    PT_397850_FITT_1_pastacos09.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
The "Gypsy Cab" at Capital Tacos in Land O'Lakes features adobo chicken, marinated jalapenos, fresh mango, cilantro, pickled onion, sour cream and bombero salsa.
    PT_397850_FITT_3_pastacos09.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Bobby and Kristel Heskett own Capital Tacos, on Land O'Lakes Boulevard, which was recently ranked as the third best taco place in the U.S. by news website Business Insider. All items are freshly prepared daily with made-from-scratch ingredients.
    PT_397850_FITT_4_pastacos09.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Cypress Elementary students Noah Combs, left, and Noah Burchard display armed forces artwork as the River Ridge High School Band led by Chris Greco, background performs "Marches of the Armed Forces" during Wednesday's Veterans Day Ceremony (11/11/15) at the Center for the Arts at River Ridge in New Port Richey. Keynote speaker Congressman Gus Bilirakis and other local officials spoke and music was performed by the Cypress Elementary Chorus and students from River Ridge Middle and High Schools.
    PT_399834_FITT_1_vetsday111.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
River Ridge High School Air Force JROTC members, from left, Devin Pruitt, Jeremy Bobowski, Matthew Pecori, and Zac Vanlangendonck perform a presentation of flag folding during Wednesday's Veterans Day Ceremony (11/11/15) at the Center for the Arts at River Ridge in New Port Richey. Keynote speaker Congressman Gus Bilirakis and other local officials spoke and music was performed by the Cypress Elementary Chorus and students from River Ridge Middle and High Schools.
    16269381.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
After building up the courage to move closer, Raiana Rendon, 2, decides a spot on Santa's lap is a little too close for a Christmas photo with New Port Richey Santa, Charles Ray, 76, at his holiday storefront Sunday (12/6/15). Ray and his wife Carole (Mrs. Claus) have set up their annual shop in Ridge Plaza at 8641 Little Road for kids of all ages to visit with Santa, share their wishes and take photos.  Hours are Monday through Friday 3p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information visit Santa New Port Richey on Facebook.
    16409256.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Marley, a yellow lab/golden retriever, takes his spot in the annual Roy family Christmas picture after a little coaching alongside twins Uriah, left, and Aiden Roy, 5, and their parents Dana, and Eileen, right, with New Port Richey Santa, Charles Ray, 76, at his holiday storefront Sunday (12/6/15). Ray and his wife Carole (Mrs. Claus) have set up their annual shop in Ridge Plaza at 8641 Little Road for kids of all ages to visit with Santa, share their wishes and take photos.  Hours are Monday through Friday 3p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information visit Santa New Port Richey on Facebook.
    16409260.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Zander Belle Anderson, 3, leans in for a quiet hug with New Port Richey Santa, Charles Ray, 76, before a Christmas photo with her family at his holiday storefront Sunday (12/6/15). Ray and his wife Carole (Mrs. Claus) have set up their annual shop in Ridge Plaza at 8641 Little Road for kids of all ages to visit with Santa, share their wishes and take photos.  Hours are Monday through Friday 3p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. - 7 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information visit Santa New Port Richey on Facebook.
    PT_400148_FITT_4_passanta12.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
With his mother, Pamela Roberts, watching proudly, left, Jamal Roberts, 21, of Zephyrhills, adjusts his cap as he get's ready for the 2015 winter commencement ceremony at Pasco-Hernando State College in New Port Richey Tuesday (12/15/15) evening. Roberts is the first student to graduate from PHSC with a Bachelor of Science in Supervision and Management.
    16453499.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Wawa celebrated the grand opening of the first WaWa in Hernando County at 12984 Cortez Blvd. in Brooksville Thursday (12/17/15) morning.
    16460593.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
A team from the Hernando County Sheriff's Office, from left, Rich Russell, Gabby Rei, Jeff Kraft, Cindy Jost and Andy Batchelder race to assemble hoagies vs. Hernando County Fire Rescue Thursday (12/17/15) morning during the grand opening of the first WaWa in Hernando County. The Sheriff's Office took the win in the Hoagies for Heroes competition, assembling 29 hoagies in the time it took fire rescue to complete 20.
    16460596.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER  |  Times<br />
Nature Coast Tech running back DeShawn Smith, photographed in the team's locker room Thursday (11/5/15).
    16248368.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Nature Coast running back DeShawn Smith sits for a portrait in the team locker room (11/5/15).
    16470687.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Handler Leandra Little praises Charlie, a Norfolk Terrier, as she prepares him for his first competition Monday (1/11/16)  at the Florida Gulf Coast Clusters dog show. The kennel clubs of Clearwater, Inverness, Manatee, Pasco and Tampa Bay are joining once again staging the largest pedigree dog show in the Southeast, and one of the largest nationwide at Florida Classic Park, east of Brooksville.
    16548905.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Evelyn Green, left, and Lorena Holloman ride in a 1949 Mercury during the Martin Luther King Jr. parade in Lacoochee Monday (1/18/16) morning. The parade traveled along Cummer Road and through the surrounding neighborhood, concluding at the Boys & Girls Club for a commemorative program.
    16574368.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Sariyah Rayford, center, waves at participants on passing floats during the Martin Luther King Jr. parade in Lacoochee Monday (1/18/16) morning. The parade traveled through Lacoochee along Cummer Road and through the surrounding neighborhood, concluding at the Boys & Girls Club for a commemorative program.
    PT_400842_FITT_1_pasmlkpara.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
After a pH test of the nutrient-laden water, Maria Rybka checks over the aeroponic towers at the People Helping People garden off Kass Circle Friday (1/22/16). Planted in early November, the garden has been yielding lettuce, kale, mustard greens, Swiss chard, various herbs and even several tomatoes since late December. "Our main mission, after all, is feeding people," said Doug Brainard, board president of People Helping People.
    16596577.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
Pasco Sheriff's Cpl. Scott Grant, the longest-serving member with the Sheriff's Office K-9 unit, will retire with his trusted partner, Missy, a Malinois, who worked with Grant as a drug detection dog.
    16683364.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
Westside Elementary School first grader Stephen Bardin, 6, gives his full attention as fourth grader Jaimes Ramos-Pellot, 10, reads to him during Literacy Week activities at the school Friday (1/2916). The older students were sharing what they learned about China during a project.
    16645279.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
Bree Hampton, 14, of Zephyrhills, relaxes with Tweak, a brown swiss cow, and others before they enter the ring for the Celebrity Milk-Off competition featuring local officials, sponsored by Florida Hospital, during opening day of the Pasco County Fair in Dade City Monday (2/16/16) afternoon. The fair runs through February 21, and a daily schedule of events and other information can be found at www.pascocountyfair.com.
    16720556.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
Madison Castle,13, left, and Hannah Plummer, 13, with Possom Trot 4H, relax with Plummer's cows, Clay, 11 days old, and his mother, Nixie, during the opening day of the Pasco County Fair in Dade City Monday (2/16/16) afternoon. The fair runs through February 21, and a daily schedule of events and other information can be found at www.pascocountyfair.com.
    16727260.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
Patrons visit midway attractions during the opening day of the Pasco County Fair in Dade City Monday (2/16/16) afternoon. The fair runs through February 21, and a daily schedule of events and other information can be found at www.pascocountyfair.com.
    PT_401541_FITT_4_pasfair021.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Kuumba Dancers, from left, Osunguaide Olafemi, Natalie Jackson and Beryl Colbert sing and dance as they perform during "The History of African Drumming" by Myron Jackson and the Kuumba Dancers and Drummers in celebration of Black History Month at Pasco-Hernando State College's Spring Hill Campus in Hernando Tuesday (2/23/16). Founded by husband and wife Myron and Natalie Jackson, the Kuumba Dancers and Drummers are a Tampa Bay-area Afrocentric performing ensemble, offering high-energy dancing, colorful costumes, songs and storytelling. Natalie Jackson said the group's mission is to, "educate the community about our African ancestral heritage through the performing arts with music, dance and literature."
    16765777.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
From left, Natalie Jackson, Myron Jackson and Cheick N'Dong of the Kuumba Dancers and Drummers perform in celebration of Black History Month at Pasco-Hernando State College's Spring Hill Campus in Hernando Tuesday (2/23/16). Founded by husband and wife Myron and Natalie Jackson, the Kuumba Dancers and Drummers are a Tampa Bay-area Afrocentric performing ensemble, offering high-energy dancing, colorful costumes, songs and storytelling. The event was free and open to the public.
    16765788.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Praise Lawson, 9, dances to the choreographed beat during a halftime show at Nature Coast Technical High School for the Harlem Ambassadors vs. Hernando Hoopsters game Thursday (3/3/16). She is part of a group of students from Hernando County public schools who participate in the STEAM AfterSchool Program. <br />
STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) AfterSchool is a free after-school program run through the Hernando County Education Foundation. The various STEAM programs, which started this past September and October, include academic programs in science, technology and math, as well as enrichment programs such as dance, theater or martial arts.
    16841052.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Cotee River Elementary student Griffin Becker, 9, gives teacher Teresa Pascalli a hug after completing a soccer skills event Thursday afternoon at Pasco County's 40th Summer Special Olympics at River Ridge High School in New Port Richey. Athletes from across the county participate in track and field events, bocce, cycling, soccer, and tennis. The summer games continue Friday (2/26/16) at Wesley Chapel High School.
    PT_401858_FITT_2_specolympi.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
With mom's sunglasses in hand, Lana Leyh, 1 1/2, checks out the shallow shoreline at at SunWest Park in Hudson Monday (3/14/16) with her mother, Angie Leyh. Hernando County Schools are on spring break this week, and the Leyhs, of Weeki Wachee, checked out the park for Lana's first visit to a beach.
    PT_402191_FITT_2_springbrea.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
New River Elementary students, from left, Jonathan Dobbins, Sean Dobbins, and Connor Streicher watch baking soda react with various liquids with some help from their teacher Laura Carlson before school Friday (2/19/16). The gifted students were working on various projects of their choosing in their before-school club that encourages each student to explore their passions. Other students have invented sports, written music, and designed remote control cars.
    16883717.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
Ashleigh and Chuck Johnson, both 28, sit with their day-old daughter, Emma, in the Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Medical Center of Trinity Thursday (2/25/16) after she was moved there for breathing difficulties. The recently opened Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has care provided by All Children's Specialty Physicians neonatologists. The $7 million project is the first NICU in Pasco County and also serves patients from Hernando, northern Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. The 4,718-square-foot NICU is an expansion of the hospital's existing obstetrics program. It offers advanced levels of care for babies born as early as 32 weeks, as well as high-risk pregnancies.
    16889328.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
Staff at the Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Medical Center of Trinity monitor and chart an infant's progress Thursday (2/25/16) in a Giraffe Incubator. The recently opened Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has care provided by All Children's Specialty Physicians neonatologists. The $7 million project is the first NICU in Pasco County and also serves patients from Hernando, northern Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. The 4,718-square-foot NICU is an expansion of the hospital's existing obstetrics program. It offers advanced levels of care for babies born as early as 32 weeks, as well as high-risk pregnancies.
    16889315.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
The still waters of the Gulf and the overcast horizon blend during a break from afternoon rain showers as a kayaker fishes off Bayport in Hernando County Monday (3/28/16) afternoon.
    16951613.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Brooskville resident Janet Laurin, center, is startled by an inbound bird  attempting to snatch a corn chip from her hand as her granddaughter, Lauren Grant, left, who was visiting from Ontario while on break, films the close encounter Friday (3/18/16) morning on the fishing pier at Bayport Park. The family was visiting the park and fishing for blue crabs, but the birds provided most of the morning's entertainment.
    16904627.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Seventh grader Tiffani Bidgood makes use of the sleek counter space in the media center while working on a lesson about ecosystems at Seven Springs Middle School Thursday (3/17/16). Pasco County schools eliminated media specialists about three years ago, and changed the way their media centers look and operate. Seven Springs Middle took advantage by creating a technology-focused center where kids work on projects with their teachers, and books are off in the corner.
    16897607.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Hasnain Sial soaks up the splash pad in the recently renovated Sims Park in downtown New Port Richey on the opening day of the 2016 Chasco Fiesta Friday (4/1/16) while there with his family. The festival continues today (Friday 4/8/16) with the carnival, background, and music and other events in Sims Park. Saturday features the boat parade along the Pithlachascotee River and country concert in the park with headliner Parmalee.
    16988485.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER   |   Times<br />
Jim Gibson of Spring Hill passes between a 1980 GMC Caballero, left, and a 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air Tuesday (4/5/16) evening at the Charity Cruise-In Car Show hosted by Chick-fil-A and Monster Transmission and Performance at Chick-fil-A on Cortez Boulevard. Gibson was there showing his 1951 Pontiac Chieftain. Funds raised benefit a different charity each month.
    16996154.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Trentin Fenimore, 9, with Pure Country 4-H Club, prays with his mother, Jennifer, for calm nerves, safety and wisdom, before entering the judging ring for the first time with Cody, his 1185 lb. steer, during the Steer Show and Showmanship competition at the Hernando County Fair Monday (4/18/16) evening.
    17083612.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Jimmy Watler, right, helps Jake Fugate, 14, with his tie before competition with his 970 lb. steer, Mac, at the Steer Show and Showmanship event at the Hernando County Fair Monday (4/18/16).
    17083618.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Trentin Fenimore, 9, with Pure Country 4-H Club, gets ready to enter the judging ring for the first time with Cody, his 1185 lb. steer, during the Steer Show and Showmanship competition at the Hernando County Fair Monday (4/18/16) evening.
    17083602.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Longleaf music teacher Jim Wanker helps fourth grade students, from left, Grace Guercio, Talia Rivera, and Isabella Breen put finishing touches on a video they shot in front of a green screen to allow them to apply a fictional travel background. The girls chose to script a trip to Paris. The Florida Alliance for Arts Education (FAAE) recently recognized Longleaf Elementary School as one of 14 Florida public schools to earn the designation of Florida Arts Model Schools; the honor being attributed to their "outstanding programs in music and visual arts". Longleaf Elementary's Mini Majors program is drawn from an exploratory arts wheel. Every seven weeks, fourth grade students rotate through introductory classes that indoctrinate them in an area of the fine or performance arts. These rotations include music and dance, photography, green screen, stop animation, drama, and improv/comedy. Fifth graders then select their top three areas of interest from the available list of Mini Majors; studying two of these subjects in depth as Majors and finally applying their newly developed skills for a final project, which prepares them for their transition to middle school. "We always aimed to be a school of the arts," said music teacher Jim Wanker. "We work together as a team to make that happen."
    17095368.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Longleaf fifth grader Colin Melton photographs a flag alongside classmates while on a photo safari walk around the campus and surrounding areas. The Florida Alliance for Arts Education (FAAE) recently recognized Longleaf Elementary School as one of 14 Florida public schools to earn the designation of Florida Arts Model Schools; the honor being attributed to their "outstanding programs in music and visual arts". Longleaf Elementary's Mini Majors program is drawn from an exploratory arts wheel. Every seven weeks, fourth grade students rotate through introductory classes that indoctrinate them in an area of the fine or performance arts. These rotations include music and dance, photography, green screen, stop animation, drama, and improv/comedy. Fifth graders then select their top three areas of interest from the available list of Mini Majors; studying two of these subjects in depth as Majors and finally applying their newly developed skills for a final project, which prepares them for their transition to middle school.
    17095371.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Longleaf Elementary fourth grader Jonatan Ortiz (DESK NOTE: NO "h" in name) takes center stage at the microphone as Longleaf's Freedom Review Show Choir rehearses at school. The students will be traveling to Washington, D.C., to represent the school and district at America Sings! Live at the Lincoln Memorial.
    17095359.JPG
  • BRENDAN FITTERER | Times<br />
Kevin and Natalie Goff check the proof on their hand crafted Wild Buck Whiskey as it flows from a still at their NJoy Spirits Distillery in Weeki Wachee Wednesday (4/2016). The husband wife duo recently won three new international awards for their products including gold medals at the world famous San Francisco International Spirits Competition for both their Mermaid Rum and Wild Buck Whiskey, out of nearly 2,000 entries. Additionally, the distillery received a Best in Class "Aged Rum" gold medal for Mermaid Rum at the prestigious American Distilling Institutes (ADI) Spirits Competition in San Diego, beating out nearly 1,000 top brand entries.
    17094628.JPG
Next