Kathy Steele

Business Digest 07-15-15

July 15, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Chamber awards
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce celebrated its 40th anniversary at its Annual Awards and Installation Banquet on June 26. Directors leaving the board were recognized for their many contributions and services: Dennis Esber, Point to Point Printing for eight years of service including the role of president; Carla Collier of All Smiles Tampa Bay for 10 years service including the founding of Dancing with Our Stars; and Charlene Ierna of Ierna’s Heating & Cooling, retiring president, was appreciated for her dedication.

Businesses, community organizations and individuals also receiving awards were: Heritage Park Foundation as Non-Profit Member of the Year; Terri Dusek of RE/MAX Premier Group for Community Service Award; Paradise Palms Chiropractic & Spa for New Business of the Year; Ierna’s Heating & Cooling Inc., for Large Business of the Year; A.L. Saland Insurance Solutions Inc., for Small Business of the Year; and Elayne Bassinger of Florida Medical Center Foundation of Caring for Member of the Year.

For information about the chamber, call (813) 909-2722, or email .

Building permits
Representatives for Culver’s restaurant and Cheddar’s Casual Café recently took the next step toward groundbreakings by filing initial applications for building permits. Site plans were filed in May with Pasco County’s planning department.

The restaurants are coming to Sun Vista Drive in the Cypress Creek Town Center, next to the Tampa Premium Outlets, located off State Road 54 at the Interstate 75 exchange.

Wednesday morning networking
A WMNG Networking presentation will take place July 15 at 7:30 a.m., at The Lake House at Hungry Harry’s Family B-B-Q, at 3116 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Each attendee will be able to present a “30-second commercial.” The $7 cost includes breakfast. Sponsorships are available.

For information, contact the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 909-2722, or email .

Community job fair
Pasco County Schools is partnering with county agencies to host a community job fair on July 15 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes High School, 20325 Gator Lane in Land O’ Lakes.

Representatives from the school district, sheriff’s office, clerk and comptroller, tax collector, the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce, and Connections job development program will conduct on-site interviews with job applicants.

For information, visit PascoSchools.org and click on the Job Fair banner.

Bowling mixer
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host a chamber mixer sponsored by Pin Chasers on July 16 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Pin Chasers is located at 6816 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 782-1913, or email .

Expansion celebration
Paradise Palms Chiropractic & Spa will host a celebration of its “grand expansion,” to double its initial size, on July 16 at 6 p.m., at 19011 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz. The clinic offers chiropractic services as well as massages, weight loss plans, and nonsurgical liposuction.

The free event will include food, drinks and music.

For information, call the clinic at (813) 948-1781, or visit ParadisePalmsChiropracticAndSpa.com.

Morning mixer
Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly coffee social mixer on July 21 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., at McDonald’s, 27643 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. This is a “no agenda” opportunity to network over a cup of free coffee.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 994-8534.

Meet and greet
Grow Financial Credit Union will host its monthly Morning Meet and Greet Mixer on July 23 from 9 a.m. to 10:15 a.m., at Grow Financial Credit Union, 2579 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Lutz.

For information, contact Charane Groeller at .

Breakfast meeting
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet July 28 at Rose’s Café at 38426 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills.

Networking begins at 8 a.m., with the meeting starting at 8:30 a.m.

The guest speaker will be Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano.

For information, call Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491, or email him at .

Finance fair
Saint Leo University will host a free Finance Fair on July 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the university’s campus, 33701 State Road 52. The university, the Small Business Administration and the Small Business Development Center are the event’s organizers.

Participants will learn about topics such as small business loans, lines of credit, cash management services, bill pay, wealth management, gift cards and loyalty programs.

For information and to register, email .

Housing professionals training
Pasco County Community Development now offers lenders and real estate agents the ability to register online for their annual Training for Housing Professionals class. The class authorizes you to assist buyers in purchasing homes in Pasco County using our PascoHome program funds.

For information, contact the Community Development Division at (727) 834-3445.

Details emerging for Tampa Premium Outlets

July 8, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Pasco County is awash in building permit applications for Tampa Premium Outlets, a project under construction off State Road 56 at the Interstate 75 exchange.

As construction proceeds, the fence along State Road 56 gives passersby a peek at a sign with a rendering of the interior of Tampa Premium Outlets. The grand opening is set for Oct. 29.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

The anchor store, Saks Off 5th, is eyeing more than 27,000 square feet for its merchandise, according to county records. Others that have filed initial applications include Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, Gap, American Eagle Outfitters, Fossil, J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Vera Bradley, Banana Republic, Ralph Lauren and Papaya.

The food court will go eclectic.

GreenLeafs & Bananas, Asian Chao, Villa Italian Kitchen and South Philly Steaks & Fries have all signed on.

Official announcements of the store lineup are anticipated over the next weeks in phases, probably in batches of 10 or 15, said Les Morris, spokesman for the Simon Property Group.

“We’re excited,” he said. “I’m not aware of another market…where the interest has been so high for so long.”

A job fair is in the works, Morris said.

These towers provide a point of interest at Tampa Premium Outlets, a project taking shape on State Road 56, just off Interstate 75.

Mall construction has generated between 300 and 400 jobs. Retail shops are expected to more than double that, with an estimated 800-plus jobs for the community.

Typically, job fairs are six to eight weeks prior to the grand opening.

Since Tampa Premium Outlets opens on Oct. 29, Morris expects an announcement of the job fair’s date and location to be made around August.

“We want it to be accessible and well-known so people can get their jobs,” he said.

Shops at Tampa Premium Outlet, and food court fare, include:

Adidas

American Eagle Outfitters

Ann Taylor

Asian Chao

Asics

Banana Republic

Calvin Klein

Carter’s

Christopher & Banks

Coach

Cole Haan

Columbia Sportswear

Converse

Easy Spirit

Ecco Shoes

Express

G.H. Bass & Co.

Gap

Godiva Chocolates

Famous Footwear

Fossil

Fragrance Outlet

GreenLeafs & Bananas

Gymboree

Haagen Dazs

Hanes

Helzberg’s Diamonds

Hurley

Janie & Jack

J.Crew

Jockey

Kay Jewelers

Levi’s

Lucky Brand Jeans

Michael Kors

Naturalizer

New Balance

Nike

Nine West

New York & Co.

O’Neill

OshKosh B’gosh

Papaya

Perfumania

Puma

Rack Room

Ralph Lauren

Reebok

Robert Wayne Shoes

Saks Off 5th

Samsonite

Seiko

Skechers

South Philly Steaks & Fries

Sperry

Swarovski

Talbot’s

The Loft

Tommy Hilfiger

Van Heusen

Vera Bradley

Villa Italian Kitchen

Wilsons Leather

Published July 8, 2015

Business Digest 07-08-15

July 8, 2015 By Kathy Steele

New chiropractor

Leslie Horne (Courtesy of Land O' Lakes Chiropractic) — Leslie Horne
(Courtesy of Land O’ Lakes Chiropractic)

Chiropractor Leslie Horne recently purchased the Land O’ Lakes Chiropractic at 2414 Raden Drive in Land O’ Lakes. She is taking over for Jeanne Sellers who is retiring after more than 10 years at this location.

Horne grew up in Indian Rocks Beach and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of South Florida. She earned a doctorate in chiropractic from Life University, and took additional postgraduate education at the New York Chiropractic College. Most of her 15 years of experience as a chiropractor was spent in Yadkinville, North Carolina.

Horne has experience in helping with disc problems, scoliosis, radiating pain, headaches, sports injuries and more.

For information, contact the clinic at (813) 948-2225.

Networking
Business Link will meet on July 8 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the Saint Leo University Student Community Center Boardroom. The event is a networking opportunity with a complimentary continental breakfast, sponsored by the San Antonio Federal Credit Union.

For information, contact Rebecca Gaddis at (352) 5888-2732, Ext. 1237, or email .

North Tampa chamber luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly general meeting on July 9. Check-in is at 11 a.m., at Brunchies Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Catering at 14366 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. Networking is until 11:30 a.m., when lunch will be served from a select menu.

For information, contact the chamber at (813) 961-2420, or email .

Crime prevention is luncheon topic
Join Women-n-Charge on July 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Dr., Tampa. The meeting includes lunch, a featured speaker and time to network. Group members share their talents, build relationships, and share our resources with other women in business. The cost is $15 for members (Tuesday before the meeting) and $18 for all guests (and members paying Wednesday and after).

The Crime Prevention Task Force will present the program, covering issues such as identity theft, purse snatching, home safety and carjacking.

Central Pasco Chamber luncheon
Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its general meeting on July 14 at 11:30 a.m., at Harbor Terrace Restaurant at Heritage Harbor, at 19502 Heritage Harbor Parkway, Lutz. The buffet lunch costs $20, if you RSVP by July 10, and $25 after and at the door.

For information, call the chamber office at (813) 909-2722, or email .

For information, contact the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (818) 909-2722, or email .

Pasco schools job fair
Pasco County Schools will host its second annual job fair on July 15 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes High School, 20325 Gator Lane in Land O’ Lakes. If you want to attend or have an interest in having a booth, contact Debbie Bowles at (813) 794-2421, or email .

Deadline looms for economic funds
The Economic Development Innovation Initiative is accepting applications until July 10. The initiative is a comprehensive program, which aims to drive the growth of technology, innovation and small businesses. It provides financial, technical and infrastructure support, to support and build entrepreneurship. For more information about the program, visit HillsboroughCounty.org/EDI2.

Housing professionals training
Pasco County Community Development now offers lenders and realtors the ability to register online for their annual Training for Housing Professionals class. The class authorizes you to assist buyers in purchasing homes in Pasco County using our PascoHome program funds.

To register online for an upcoming lender-Realtor class, visit the lender/Realtor at PascoCountyFL.net/index.aspx?nid=575. The class schedule also is available here. Emails will be sent to confirm registration. If you wish to sign up for a class being held in less than two business days, you must call the Community Development Division Office to register.

For information, contact the Community Development Division at (727) 834-3445.

New incubator
Good Faith Insurance Services, owned by Rosie Paulsen, is now an off-site member of SMARTstart, the business incubator managed by Pasco Economic Development Council. Three years ago Paulsen received the second micro-loan from the PEDC and hired her first employee. Since 2006 Paulsen’s company has offered educational seminars about insurance options specializing in educating retirees on Medicare choices and benefits. Good Faith also is a “one-stop shop” for insurance services including Health Care ACA, dental and vision plans, home and auto plans, and life insurance.

Paulsen is a native of Ecuador who moved to the United States in 1988. She worked with Humana Health Care for four years and helped the company with outreach to the Hispanic senior market.

For information, visit GoodFaithIs.com.

Business awards
The Pasco Economic Development Council will hand out Industry of the Year awards at its 29th annual banquet on Sept. 3 at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel. More than 600 business and community leaders in Tampa Bay and Pasco County attend the event each year. There also will be a business trade show.

The awards recognize outstanding companies in the categories of manufacturing, service, technology and nonprofits that operate in Pasco County.

The 23 nominees for this year’s awards are: Applicant Insight Inc.; Aviation Instrument Technologies Inc.; Big Storm Brewing Co.; Can Can Concealment LLC; Covanta Pasco; Easy Business Software Inc.; Electro Tape Specialties Inc.; Evolution Trikes; Fifth Third Bank, New Port Richey Branch; Florida Custom Mold Inc.; Florida Hospital Zephyrhills; Freedom Scooter & Supply LLC; Manufacturers Distributor Inc.; Millian-Aire Enterprises Corp.; Morton Plant North Bay Hospital; Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers of Pasco; Polaris Sales Co.; Preferred Materials; Retail Process Engineering LLC; SAHM Co.; The Laker/Lutz News; and Veterans Alternative Therapy.

Study focuses on marketing property near Zephyrhills airport

July 1, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Duke Energy recently completed a site evaluation and marketing report on more than 440 acres next to the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport.

The property, according to the report, can be made site-ready for aerospace manufacturing, light industrial and assembly companies, and the plastics industry.

“We want to help you, to encourage you, as you market the Zephyrhills airport’s industrial area,” said Beth Land, a consultant with McCallum Sweeney, a national firm that partners with the Duke Energy Site Readiness program.

The engineering firm, HRP Associates, also participated in the site’s analysis.

The site-readiness program began in 2005 for the purpose of identifying and improving industrial sites that can attract investments and jobs in communities within Duke Energy’s service region. In the past decade, 155 site readiness projects have been completed, mostly within Southeastern states.

Work on the Zephyrhills’ project began several months ago. Two other sites in Florida – the Deltona Commerce Park in Volusia County and Florida Energy and Aerospace Training (FEAT) Park – were evaluated in 2013.

The report was presented to a joint workshop of the Zephyrhills City Council and the Pasco County Commission on June 22, prior to the city council’s monthly meeting. There was no discussion from council or commission members afterward.

One of the initial steps recommended by Duke Energy is an environmental assessment of the industrial site. Pasco County might be able to use a portion of a $400,000 federal grant to complete the task, if property owners give permission. The grant was awarded recently to help Pasco County build an inventory of brownfield sites. An update is expected by October.

The term “brownfield site” generally refers to the reuse, expansion or redevelopment of property, which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The site readiness report for the Zephyrhills location provided a detailed look at the area’s prospects for future development, its strengths and weaknesses, and recommendations to boost its attractiveness to investors.

The team of evaluators found the site suitable for one or two large facilities built on site or a cluster of smaller facilities with multiple users.

“We’ve been very excited about the whole process,” said John Walsh, vice president of the Pasco Economic Development Council. “It’s an exciting opportunity to promote Zephyrhills and show the rest of the world we’re ready to bring investment opportunities and get some jobs here.”

As laid out by Land and Mark Sweeney, one of the owners of McCallum Sweeney, the path to certifying a site as market-ready takes commitment, time and resources.

“It can be very demanding at times,” said Sweeney.

But the rewards, as touted in the report, can be significant.

Among success stories for Duke Energy’s program is Severcorr Steel, which invested about $800 million in a facility in Columbus, Mississippi, and created 450 jobs. Among McCallum Sweeney’s clients are Hertz, Northrup Grumman, Nordex, Boeing and Alenia Aeronautics.

The key is to understand that economic development is a business with the community as the product being sold. “Everything about your community may be a factor they (investors) are considering in whether they want to locate in your community,” Sweeney said.

Among a list of considerations would be the site itself, the infrastructure including utilities, the labor force and quality of life factors.

There are issues with the site that should be addressed prior to marketing the site, Land said.

The property has three owners, 4 Rail LLC, Sysco Corporation and 5L Properties LLC. The portion owned by 5L Properties is zoned agricultural, and Duke Energy recommends either rezoning it as industrial or at least creating a timeline for completing the task.

There is access to the property from Chancey Road, Sixth Avenue and State Road 54, but it also is 13 miles from Interstate 75 and 20 miles from Interstate 4. An investor would want to know what routes are available to connect to interstate highways.

Duke Energy also recommends building a rail spur onto the property off the CSX rail line adjacent to the site’s western border. No cost estimate was provided.

Construction of a new wastewater line and lift station is needed, according to the report, at an estimated cost of about $1.7 million and a timeline of up to a year for completion.

The power company also recommends creation of a master plan for how to develop the site.

“This is a great spot. Our key to success is having pads ready,” said Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore. There is a lot of opportunity here.”

Published July 1, 2015

Developer plans new homes in Land O’ Lakes

July 1, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Developers plan to build a new subdivision on land formerly owned by Lester Dairy Farm, off U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes. The vacant land is the last significant undeveloped parcel along a corridor filled with new residential communities including Asbel Creek and Lakeshore Ranch.

To the north, Florida Citrus Investors owns more than 300 acres slated for townhouses. Across the highway the “new town” of Connerton is under development on about 8,000 acres of a former cattle ranch.

On June 24, Pasco County’s Development Review Committee gave unanimous approval to the residential community proposed by NVR Inc., the owner and developer of the dairy farm property. The Pasco County Commission must still give its approval.

Plans are to build nearly 490 single-family homes on about 300 acres, located on the west side of U.S. 41 and about a mile south of State Road 52.

Developers will be responsible for building the first two lanes of the Bulloch Road extension, which would bisect the site and connect with the portion of Bulloch within Asbel Creek.

They also would build a portion of a proposed east/west “vision” road, with access off U.S. 41. The roadwork within the subdivision is part of Pasco County’s long-range transportation efforts to increase neighborhood connectivity, and relieve traffic volume on heavily traveled highways such as U.S. 41.

Chris Williams, planning director for the District School Board of Pasco County, took the opportunity to push for more cooperation between planners with the county and school district on another “vision” plan for school construction.

He also serves on the county’s development review committee, and supported NVR’s project.

Connerton and other large developments often set aside acreage for future schools. But, Williams said smaller projects, such as Lakeshore Ranch, Asbel Creek, Tierra del Sol and the latest from NVR, rarely have the space.

“There already are 500 elementary school kids who live in these developments,” Williams said.

The school district has purchased land in the area for a future elementary school. However, Williams said planners with the county and the school district need to work jointly on school needs, not only with large development projects, but smaller ones as well.

“There is an accumulative effect,” he said. “We’re seeing this happen, and we need to set a school vision plan.”

Published July 1, 2015

Chapel Crossings could bring new rooftops to Wesley Chapel

July 1, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Crown Community Development got the go-ahead from the Pasco County Commission to build Chapel Crossings, a mixed-use development that will be located north of State Road 54 and east of Curley Road.

More than 1,000 single-family homes and apartments are planned. There also would be about 175,000 square feet of retail and about 50,000 square feet of office space.

“This is a great project,” said attorney Barbara Wilhite, who represented the developer at the public hearing to rezone the property. “We’ve worked really hard on it. (Pasco County) staff worked really hard on it.”

But the approval didn’t come without a kerfuffle over the construction of roads that will bisect the approximately 300-acre site in Wesley Chapel.

Crown Community Development plans to spend about $6.6 million to build extensions to Curley Road and a portion of the Zephyrhills Bypass Extension. The roads intersect in the center of Chapel Crossings.

The disagreement focused on the types of roads that are required, and whether Crown Community Development needed to build a second north/south road through the property at an additional cost of about $990,000.

It wouldn’t be a road that served Chapel Crossings, said Craig Weber, vice president of Crown Community Development, whose company also developed WaterGrass and Seven Oaks in Wesley Chapel.

Weber claimed that the county was holding him to a standard “that doesn’t exist. I don’t get it. Let’s just not make it up as we go along.”

It also isn’t certain, he said, that the road would ever be needed to connect with potential development to the north.

His project is southwest of the Villages of Pasadena, a planned community with potential for a range of 22,000 to 25,000 homes.

“We don’t believe the code requires a second north/south road, one-third of a mile from Curley Road,” said Wilhite. “My client thinks he has met the standard.”

But Chairman Ted Schrader and Commissioner Kathryn Starkey raised concerns about a road design that didn’t go far enough to give people alternatives to driving on major thoroughfares that already are in gridlock.

Newer subdivisions that direct traffic onto State Road 54 compare unfavorably, Starkey said, to older neighborhoods in west Pasco County that do have neighborhood roads.

“You have got to have interconnectivity between neighborhoods or you’re going to have gridlock everywhere,” said Starkey, who had to leave the hearing prior to the vote. “One of the basic qualities of life is to be able to move around within a community and not have everyone on the same road.”

Other commissioners were more supportive.

“It could end up being a road to nowhere,” said Commissioner Mike Moore. He also suggested that the second road might not be environmentally doable because of wetlands.

That argument, in the end, persuaded Schrader to join with other commissioners in approving the project.

“I think you have to have interconnectivity,” he said. “I think that is better planning. But when I look at the map, I see some real challenges to making that happen.”

Published July 1, 2015

Scott’s veto pen helps, and hurts

July 1, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Gov. Rick Scott’s veto pen stripped away funds from some projects but spared others, as he cut more than $460 million from the state’s 2015-16 budget.

Pasco County lost more than $8 million in anticipated funds for various projects.

But some local projects in the $78.6 billion state budget faired especially well.

Pasco-Hernando State College will receive $5.5 million for a performing arts center in Wesley Chapel. A shooting range for the police academy, located on the college’s Dade City campus, will receive $1 million for improvements.

Another winner is the Land O’ Lakes Community Center which will receive $250,000 for a band shell and stage.

“I’m as excited as I can be,” said Sandy Graves, president of Heritage Park Foundation. The nonprofit helps collect donations for improvements to the community center, which dates to the 1960s.

“We’ve been wanting it and wanting it. It’d be in our reach, and then it would go away,” Graves said.

In December, Graves made a presentation to Pasco’s legislative delegation. The initial estimate of $150,000 for construction costs was deemed too low, and the request was boosted to $250,000.

The community center is a long-time gathering place for residents in Land O’ Lakes and Lutz, Graves said.

The band shell and stage will enable the community to expand uses there, to include bigger community events and festivals.

Scott signed the state’s budget on June 22. It becomes effective July 1.

The county’s losses, in budget cuts, included $1.9 million for a storm water project in Dade City; $250,000 for the Senior Elderly Nutrition Kitchen; $1 million for the Metropolitan Ministries’ partially completed transitional housing for the county’s homeless population; and $450,000 for a Zephyrhills’ fire protection water line.

It was a mixed bag for Pasco County Schools.

The good news is the district will receive $750,000 to continue operating the Tampa Bay Regional Aeronautics Academies partnership with Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and Tampa International Airport. Currently, there is an aeronautics academy at Sunlake High School in Land O’ Lakes.

But Scott cut $1.5 million sought for a similar program at Zephyrhills High School that would include a capital project for a separate classroom facility.

Among reasons Scott gave for eliminating line items from the budget was whether the programs would offer statewide benefits.

“I disagree that these programs don’t have a statewide benefit, or return on investment,” Pasco County Superintendent Kurt Browning said in a news release. “We believe this unique program embraces Governor Scott’s platform to provide more jobs for Floridians, attract more businesses to our state, and prepare students to achieve success in college, career and life.”

However, Browning noted that the program would move forward with classroom instruction at Zephyrhills High School.

Published July 1, 2015

BizWalks survey highlights Zephryhills’ market power

July 1, 2015 By Kathy Steele

As community leaders talked recently with business owners about their job needs, it became clear that many were looking to hire military veterans. But they didn’t know how to get the word out.

That disconnect became the first challenge identified in the inaugural BizWalks 2014-15 report, a survey sponsored by the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce and the Pasco Economic Development Council.

No one wanted to wait until the study was finished. So effort started quickly to hold a workshop in March to link those employers with community organizations and the resources to get something done.

“There was a tremendous response,” said Vonnie Mikkelsen, out-going executive director of the chamber of commerce. Mikkelsen’s last day on the job is July 3.

That kind of quick action in support of the business community is one outcome of what Mikkelsen hopes will be an annual BizWalks survey. Long-term, the survey might be done quarterly, she said.

The chamber has done business surveys periodically.

But BizWalks is more targeted and drills deeper into the opinions and issues facing business owners, especially in high-growth sectors of manufacturing, aviation, distribution and startups.

Those are the businesses that drive economic growth, Mikkelsen said.

The idea for BizWalks took off soon after Mikkelsen attended a conference on how to retain and expand businesses. She heard from others who had done similar “BizWalks” surveys in their communities.

Over a six-week period in late 2014, volunteers completed 16 on-site visits and 26 anonymous online surveys.

Participating businesses included Flight Crafters, Turin Aviation Group, Skywatch Signs, Goin’ Postal, Zephyr Aircraft Engines and Skydive City.

The staff members at the Pasco Economic Development Council partnered with Zephyrhills’ chamber and a committee of volunteers to coordinate activities, offer interview training and aid in crunching the data for the final report.

The Zephyrhills Economic Development Coalition will use the data to craft an 18- to 24-month plan of action to tackle issues such as infrastructure, work force development and the bureaucratic world of business regulations. Those were identified as the top priorities among business owners.

“We’re not only out there to gain a better knowledge and pulse of the business community, but also to take action and champion these things,” Mikkelsen said.

Overall, business owners were upbeat about the future.

About 82 percent said they felt Zephyrhills was moving in the right direction in creating a business-friendly atmosphere.

About 38 percent said they planned to hire additional employees in the next six months. And, none were planning layoffs.

Sales volumes are increasing, and the trend is expected to continue during the next 12 months.

Half of business owners said they would expand facilities in the next two years, and 60 percent expected to invest in new equipment.

Growth is not being hindered due to lack of capital or financing, and that trend likely will continue.

The survey also showed the commercial reach of Zephyrhills, which is strategically located near major road systems with access to markets beyond Pasco County and the Tampa Bay region.

That reach may be surprising to some.

Many Zephyrhills companies sell statewide and nationwide. About 45 percent of surveyed companies reported international sales to Europe, Africa, South America, Asia and the Mediterranean.

“There are a lot of gems here,” said Mikkelsen. “It’s truly a remarkable coming of age for Zephyrhills.”

The report establishes a foundation for future spin-off activities and programs that bolster Zephyrhills’ ongoing economic growth. As future reports are done, trends can be spotted and opportunities can emerge, Mikkelsen said.

The implications go beyond this one report, said John Hagen, president of the Pasco Economic Development Council.

“It’s a good thing to do for the community, but it also is a template for other communities,” he said. “What we’re trying to accomplish, other than just working in Zephyrhills, is to work out a methodology that we can then duplicate and use in other communities and with other chambers.”

In the future, Hagen said he anticipates efforts to share the Zephyrhills’ experience as a model of how to conduct a proactive business survey. It was the first locally initiated program of its type in Pasco County.

“That is something for Zephyrhills to be truly proud of,” said Mikkelsen. “We did it because we needed to, but that is an indication that we did it right. It’s really exciting.”

Published July 1, 2015

Business Digest 07-01-15

July 1, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Company expansion
TRU Simulation + Training is expanding its operations at its Lutz facility. The expansion includes the addition of 75 employees in training, engineering and production. The Pasco Economic Development Council helped the company acquire permits to retrofit the 60,000-square-foot facility and obtain job creation incentives, as the company prepares to launch a new training program.

Beginning in June, the new FAA certified Part 142 center began offering instructor-led training for pilots of Cessna CJ1/2/3 and Conquest I and II series aircraft. By fall, ProFlight expects to also offer entitlement training for new Beechcraft King Air turboprops outfitted with the Pro Line Fusion avionics system.

For information, visit TRUSimulation.com.

Deadline looming for Hillsborough economic funds
The Economic Development Innovation Initiative is accepting applications until July 10. The initiative is a comprehensive program, which aims to drive the growth of technology, innovation and small businesses. It provides financial, technical and infrastructure support, to support and build entrepreneurship. For more information about the program, visit HillsboroughCounty.org/EDI2.

Breakfast meeting
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly breakfast meeting on July 2 at 7:30 a.m., at Bayfront Health Dade City, 13100 Fort King Road, in Dade City. The meeting will be in Classroom 108 at Medical Plaza 1. The guest speaker will be Shauna McKinnon, the hospital’s chief executive officer.

The cost to chamber members, with breakfast included, is $7. For non-members the cost is $10.

For information, contact the chamber office at (813) 782-1913, or email .

Ribbon cutting
Cameo Salon and Spa will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting on July 2 at 5 p.m., at 1817 Collier Parkway in Lutz. Come and meet salon owner Lori Malm and her team of hair, makeup and massage specialists.

For information, contact the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 909-2722, or email .

For information, contact Rebecca Gaddis at (352) 5888-2732, Ext. 1237, or email .

Luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly general meeting July 9, with check-in at 11:00 a.m., at Brunchies Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Catering at 14366 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. Networking is until 11:30 a.m., when lunch will be served from a select menu.

For information, contact the chamber at (813) 961-2420 or email .

Publix construction
The first Publix in Dade City likely will open its doors by early fall, according to Publix spokesman Brian West. An official announcement will be made about three weeks prior to the opening date. The approximately 45,000-square-foot grocery store will anchor the Shoppes of Dade City, at the corner of U.S. 301 and Clinton Avenue. The nearest Publix currently for Dade City residents is in Zephyrhills.

New incubator
Micro Drone Vision is the newest on-site business to join the SMARTstart Business Incubator in Dade City. The program is operated by the Pasco Economic Development Council to encourage startups and grow new businesses.

Micro Drone provides education, safety training and Federal Aviation Administration certification training for unmanned aerial systems operators. Currently, the company is working with public and private schools to integrate drone flight training with their curriculum through workshops and summer camps.

For more information about Micro Drone, visit www.MicroDroneVision.com.

Business awards
Pasco Economic Development Council will hand out Industry of the Year awards at its 29th annual banquet on Sept. 3 at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel. More than 600 business and community leaders in Tampa Bay and Pasco County attend the event each year. There also will be a business trade show.

The awards recognize outstanding companies in the categories of manufacturing service, technology and nonprofits that operate in Pasco County.

Wesley Chapel networking group
Networking for Your Success meets every Thursday at 8 a.m., at Lexington Oaks Country Club, 2615 Lexington Oaks Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Cost is $5, and annual membership to the group is $79.

Free business guidance
If you’re looking for some help to start a new business or retool an existing one, the expert volunteers with Pasco-Hernando SCORE may be able to help you get on the right track.

Historically known as the Service Corps of Retired Executives, this organization taps into the wealth of knowledge that comes from real-world, relevant experience of its volunteers.

The volunteers can help with a myriad of issues, including the development of business plans to secure financing. The organization offers free weekly seminars at local libraries and also offers online access to many free small business tools.

To find out more, visit PascoHernando.score.org.

Tools to help you succeed
The Pasco Enterprise Network offers a one-stop resource for finding help with your business challenges.

No matter what the issue is, the network can connect small businesses and entrepreneurs with assistance to help them succeed.

Pasco Enterprise Network is a collaborative effort of not-for profit agencies committed to ensuring the success of small businesses in Pasco County, Florida. Our PEN Partners provide consulting, counseling, education and technical assistance in a variety of areas and subjects.

To find out more, visit PascoEnterprise.net.

Restaurant wings into Wesley Chapel

June 24, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Buffalo Wild Wings will open its doors in time for the Fourth of July celebrations.

The ribbon cutting is scheduled for July 3, with the first full week of operation kicking off July 6, said Dana Balch, the restaurant’s general manager.

“We are super excited,” he said. “It’s been a long time in the making.”

Residents have come up to Balch and his staff for weeks when they have been spotted out and about sporting the Buffalo Wild Wings’ logos on their work uniforms.

Construction is nearly complete on the new Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant off State Road 56. A ribbon cutting is scheduled for July 3. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photo) — Construction is nearly complete on the new Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant off State Road 56. A ribbon cutting is scheduled for July 3.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)

“There’s been a lot of excitement in town to see a family friendly sports restaurant,” he said.

The local connection extends to employees. Four out of five members of the management team are Wesley Chapel residents, including Balch. The restaurant is a member of the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce.

The restaurant is off State Road 56, next to the Gate gas station and east of Cypress Ridge Boulevard. The area is a hot spot for new development including the recently opened Mercedes Benz-Wesley Chapel.

Further east, just beyond the Interstate 75 exchange, construction is under way on the Tampa Premium Outlets and the Cypress Creek Town Center.

The new Buffalo Wild Wings is the second location for the Ohio-based chain. Another restaurant is in New Port Richey.

The restaurant was founded in 1982 with the name Buffalo Wild Wings & Weck. It was popularized with the nickname, BW-3. But after the restaurant dropped the weck roll for its sandwiches, a new nickname found favor – B-dubs.

Buffalo Wild Wings is known for its wings and selections of domestic, imported and craft beers. The menu also features

chicken tenders, popcorn shrimp, tacos, salads, hamburgers and sandwiches.

The restaurant will have plenty of televisions, too, for those who enjoy watching sports.

Published June 24, 2015