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Health & Wellness (5/7/25): PHSC grads celebrate success

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Kendall Childers

PHSC grads celebrate success

NEW PORT RICHEY – Kendall Childers is set to graduate from Pasco-Hernando State College on May 8 with her Associate in Science degree in nursing, earning her qualifications as a registered nurse. 

Childers is from Dunnellon and moved to Tampa in 2020, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from the University of South Florida. During her studies at USF, she learned her passion lay in nursing. 

“Choosing to attend Pasco-Hernando State College’s Registered Nurse program was an easy decision, thanks to the program’s strong reputation and the supportive learning environment,” Childers said. “I’m incredibly thankful for the knowledge, guidance, and clinical experiences I’ve gained throughout my time at PHSC.”

She is moving forward with her career goals and has already accepted a position at Tampa General Hospital, where she plans to work in the transplant unit. At the same time, she is planning to continue her education this fall at PHSC to earn her Bachelor of Science in nursing.

Sarah Summers

Childers is one of two student speakers during commencement. The other is Sarah Summers, a dual enrollment student from Zephyrhills High School. 

Summers has been in dual enrollment since her sophomore year, but this last year she became the collegewide president for Phi Theta Kappa and the secretary in the Student Government Association at PHSC. 

“I have learned a lot through these programs, and it is an honor to be a commencement speaker,” Summers said.

 

Hospital builds beds for kids

PALM HARBOR – Volunteers from AdventHealth North Pinellas joined forces with the nonprofit Sleep in Heavenly Peace to build beds for children in need across Pinellas County. 

The bed build event took place April 25 at Palm Harbor Parks and Recreation.

According to Sleep in Heavenly Peace, 7,361 children in the Tampa area are sleeping without beds. Over the years, the organization has delivered 4,428 beds to families in need across Tampa Bay.

“Last year, AdventHealth volunteers built beds for more than 50 children who had been sleeping on floors,” said Andrew Santos, hospital CEO. “This bed build is one of the ways we can show our support for our North Pinellas community, and it goes a long way in making both our team and our community feel whole.”

 

Initiative trains hospice and palliative care nurses

TAMPA – The University of South Florida College of Nursing and Empath Health are partnering to invest in the next generation of hospice and palliative care nurses through the state’s Linking Industry to Nursing Education funding initiative.  

The collaboration will provide $10,000 scholarships to three Accelerated Second Degree students – Brianna Barton, Jaelynn Burton and Brianna Temes – helping complete their final semester and join Florida’s nursing workforce.

While hospice is often viewed as simply “end-of-life care,” Empath Health is working to redefine it as “Full Life Care”—a holistic, patient- and family-centered approach that emphasizes dignity, comfort and quality of life at every stage. 

On the web: empathhealth.org

 

Caucus focuses on American-made medicines

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) and others have launched the American-Made Medicines Caucus.

The group promotes policies to onshore and friendshore pharmaceutical manufacturing as well as reduce America’s reliance on adversarial countries for essential medications.  

The U.S. imports 90% of all generic drugs and ran a $127 billion trade deficit in pharmaceuticals in 2024.

“With our overwhelming reliance on Chinese pharmaceutical products and ingredients, it’s imperative that we find ways to increase domestic manufacturing capacity and preserve consumer access to these important and lifesaving products,” Bilirakis said. “Public health and wellness should not depend on our foreign adversaries and I look forward to finding ways to address this threat through the caucus.”

 

BayCare breaks ground

 

Quick Hits

  • HART has unveiled a new Autism Awareness wrapped bus. The bus will remain in service for an entire year to promote awareness and inclusion throughout the community.
  • BayCare broke ground April 30 on BayCare Hospital Manatee, its 17th hospital, and BayCare HealthHub (Manatee). The $563 million hospital is expected to open in 2028 with 154 beds.
  • AdventHealth Lake Wales Wound Care Center has been honored with three awards by Healogics: the President’s Circle Award, the Center of Distinction Award and the Robert A. Warriner III, M.D., Clinical Excellence Award. 

 

 

Saint Leo University staffers advise on life after college

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Satyne Doner crosses the stage in 2024 at Saint Leo University’s morning commencement ceremony. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management and is the associate editor for WTWH Media.


ST. LEO – As college commencement season begins, some students might be worried about their future or they may be seeking advice from family and friends. 

Tammy Zacchilli, professor of psychology, and Omar Cosme, director of career services, both at Saint Leo University, offer tips for life after college.

 

Tammy Zacchilli

All the Feels

Soon-to-be-graduates are likely feeling positive and negative emotions. 

“They might feel happy, accomplished and proud,” Zacchilli said. “They might also experience fear and anxiety if they are not sure where they are headed. Even if they have an idea of where they are headed, they might still have fears related to moving away, starting a new job or going to graduate school.”

Her advice for graduating students: “They can talk to friends and family members about how they are feeling,” Zacchilli said. “If you experience anxiety that interferes with your daily life, be sure to seek counseling. Sharing feelings can reduce those feelings of anxiety.”

 

Practical Job Hunt Tips

“Start with what’s within your control,” Cosme advised. “Polish your resume. For Saint Leo students, that’s using our Resume Starter Kit, and then schedule a document review through Handshake.”

Students (and anyone looking for a new career) “should tailor your resume toward the jobs you’re targeting – not just a list of duties, but a story of your skills and accomplishments.”

Cosme recommended using the Handshake platform offered by Saint Leo University or similar platforms used by other colleges. 

“That’s where you’ll find on-campus jobs, internships and full-time roles posted by employers actively recruiting Saint Leo students,” Cosme said. “Complete your profile. The more employers can see about your interests and experiences, the better your chances.”

Another piece of advice from Cosme is to enroll in the Leo Great Career Development Program, which is open to students and alumni. Other universities may offer similar programs. 

“It walks you through three stages: learning who you are as a professional, getting ready for the job market and practicing how to stand out,” he said. “Each step is designed to build your confidence and give you practical tools you can use immediately.”

 

Balancing Self-care with Career

Zacchilli suggests students and graduates should “always take time for yourself.

“Try to use healthy coping strategies,” she said. “Any new path will be met with excitement but also with possible challenges. Don’t be afraid to reach out to mentors and past professors if you need additional guidance. Also, stay organized so you can keep track of applications or interviews.”

 

Omar Cosme

Family Help

While parents and other family members may be leery of hovering, there are things they can do. “Families can be supportive,” Zacchilli said. “Families can share stories of their own experiences. Sometimes just listening to our students share their concerns can help them relieve stress.”

Families also can be huge allies in the job hunt process. 

“The best thing they can do is listen without pressuring,” Cosme said. “Ask open-ended questions like, ‘What kind of work makes you feel energized?’ or ‘Is there anything you’re curious about exploring?’”

Encourage your student to visit career services, he said. “The earlier the better, even if they’re unsure of their major or career path.”

Cosme added, “And if you have professional contacts, don’t underestimate the power of a short informational interview. That one conversation might help them discover a field they’d never considered. It’s not about handing them a job – it’s about giving them insight.”

 

Staying Connected

Social media is a great way to stay connected to friends made while in college. 

“Texting also allows connection between friends,” Zacchilli said. “When moving from college to a job or graduate school, social support will continue to be important. Try to find people who have similar interests as you.”

Cosme advised new graduates to “stay curious and check in, even if there’s no agenda. Comment on a classmate’s post. Congratulate a friend who just got a new job. Relationships don’t have to fade just because you graduated.”

He also encouraged them to be involved as university alumni through Career Services events, alumni mixers and online groups. 

“Many of our Leo Great completers continue to engage through mock interviews, mentoring or employer panels – because community doesn’t stop at graduation,” he said. “Sometimes, reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while can be the start of something new. Most people are just waiting for someone else to say hello first.”

 

Celebrate Success

Some students may be feeling “less than” or are experiencing a bit of “imposter syndrome” this commencement season. 

“Remind yourself that you were admitted to this university, you’ve done the work, and you’re showing up,” Cosme said. “That’s real. And when you feel like you don’t know enough, get curious instead of critical. Ask questions. Seek feedback. Growth is the goal, not perfection.”

He also suggested keeping a “confidence file.” This could be positive feedback from a professor, a thank-you email from a classmate, or a list of small wins. “When your self-talk turns negative, let those reminders speak louder,” Cosme said.

Zacchilli advised the soon-to-be-graduates to try to avoid comparing themselves too much to others. 

“You are on your own track, and we each have different experiences,” she said. “You are a college graduate now so that is a major accomplishment. Be proud of this step and look forward to the new opportunities you will have now that you have completed this step.”

 

Elite DNA Behavioral Health launches supply drive 

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TAMPA – Elite DNA Behavioral Health, a behavioral and mental health service provider, is hosting a supply drive May 1 to 23 to support domestic violence victims in the greater Tampa area.

The drive coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month. 

“We are proud to stand alongside domestic violence survivors and believe that no one should face this battle alone,” said Elizabeth Dosoretz, founder and CEO of Elite DNA Behavioral Health. “Oftentimes, domestic violence victims must abandon personal items and necessities when fleeing unsafe situations, leaving them with significant needs as they seek help. Together, with the generosity of the community, we can help support survivors and provide them with essential items as they work to rebuild their lives.”

Elite DNA will collect items at six locations and is calling on the community for help. 

Each participating Elite DNA location will support a different organization or shelter in the area.

The community can drop off donations at these Elite DNA locations between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday:

  • Brandon (1602 Oakfield Drive, Suite 205): The office will support Hope for Her in collecting Mother’s Day items, including spa items, bath robes, socks, underwear, makeup, costume and jewelry.
  • Brooksville (11371 Cortez Blvd., Suite 210): The office will support Dawn Center of Hernando County in collecting personal hygiene items, cleaning products, diapers and wipes, twin sheets and pillows, towels and washcloths, non-perishable food and snack items, kid beverages and over-the-counter health supplies.
  • Carrollwood (16578 N. Dale Mabry Hwy.) and Largo (8839 Bryan Dairy Road, Suite 310): Both offices will support The Spring of Tampa Bay in collecting bedding items, specifically XL twin sheets, pillows and blankets, along with sets of dishes and silverware, bath towels and washcloths, toiletry items and hair products for diverse hair types. The Spring of Tampa Bay will also accept gift cards to Amazon, Publix, Target and Walmart. 
  • Lakeland (2600 Florida Ave. S): The office will support the Peace River Center in collecting cleaning supplies, including dish soap and sponges, laundry detergent, paper towels, toilet paper, trash bags as well as sheets and towels. Peace River Center will also accept cash or gift cards for food and gas. 
  • Wesley Chapel (5825 Argerian Drive, Suite 101): The office will support Sunrise of Pasco County in collecting toiletries, feminine products, baby wipes and diapers. 

On the web: EliteDNA.com/TampaSuppliesDrive/

 

Pasco commissioners recognize Mustangs soccer title

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NEW PORT RICHEY – The Pasco Board of County Commissioner recognized the boys soccer team at J.W. Mitchell High School on April 22 for winning a state championship this school year. 

Coach Tyler Frick and the Mustangs were there to meet commissioners and pose for photos. 

“What we accomplished this year is very rare,” Frick told commissioners. “From my own research, it’s only the sixth team sports title in Pasco County high school sports history, and we’re lucky to have two of them.

“These guys had a great year. They came together finally at the end in a great playoff run against great competition to accomplish what they did. We’re enjoying all of this for sure.”

After a resolution was read into the record, commissioners took turns congratulating the team. 

“I’m sure all these memories – the bus rides back, the excitement, the bonding, the friendships – will last forever,” Commissioner Lisa Yeager told the student-athletes. “Just take it all in because you know what? You’re going to blink. You’re going to be out of high school. This is the best time of your life right now. Congratulations again. You guys worked hard and you deserve it.”

Commissioner Seth Weightman also acknowledged the parents for their support.

“All the hours, days and weekends probably going to club matches all across the state – they couldn’t have done it without you all, too,” Weightman told them. 

 

RESOLUTION NO. CAO25-5126

A  RESOLUTION  BY  THE  BOARD  OF  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  OF  PASCO COUNTY, FLORIDA, CONGRATULATING THE J.W. MITCHELL HIGH SCHOOL BOYS SOCCER TEAM FOR WINNING A STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

WHEREAS, on February 22, 2025, the J.W. Mitchell High School Boys Soccer Team beat the second-ranked team in the country and top-ranked team in Class 6A Jacksonville Mandarin Boys Soccer Team 1-0 to capture the Class 6A Boys Soccer State Championship; and

WHEREAS, the J.W. Mitchell High School Boys Soccer Team handed the Jacksonville Mandarin Boys Soccer Team their first loss of the season, withstanding every challenge that Mandarin mounted over the duration of the game; and

WHEREAS, the J.W. Mitchell High School Boys Soccer Team was the only Tampa Bay area school to win a state title this year in soccer; and

WHEREAS, this state championship win marks just the second time a Pasco County boys soccer program has reached the pinnacle of Florida high school soccer, with the J.W. Mitchell High School Boys Soccer Team winning in 2010; and  

WHEREAS, the path to the title game was hard-fought, with the J.W. Mitchell High School Boys Soccer Team showing their resiliency in the semifinal in a back-and-forth battle against Olympic Heights; and  

WHEREAS,  the  J.W.  Mitchell  High  School  Boys  Soccer  Team  is  comprised  of  players  Pantelis Himonetos, Alejandro Acosta, Thomas Lutz, Quentin Hanson, Caden Pappas, Asher Bode, Alexi Anazco, Tyson Wallace, Luke Mclaren, Drew Delaney, Jack Shafer, Jackson Shaw, Kaua Cardoso, Elijah Sanchez, Trent Swift, Caden Beaver, Geo Guerra, Cameron Colyer, Adam Naim, Denton Buchanan, Eduardo Meza-Luna, Dion Shala, Thomas Triglia and David Gillespie; and 

WHEREAS,  the  J.W.  Mitchell  High  School  Boys  Soccer  Team  is  coached  by  Tyler  Frick,  Joe Schulman, Jason Piurowski, Kole McGibbon, Medin Kukuljac and Oscar Ubillus; and

WHEREAS, the J.W. Mitchell High School Boys Soccer Team finished the 2024-2025 season with a remarkable record of twenty-two wins, two losses and two tie games.

NOW,  THEREFORE,  BE  IT  RESOLVED  by  the  Board  of  County  Commissioners  of  Pasco County, Florida, that said Board hereby congratulates the J.W. Mitchell High School Boys Soccer Team for winning a Class 6A Boys Soccer State Championship.

DONE AND RESOLVED in regular session with a quorum present and voting this 22nd day of April 2025.

Chalk Talk (5/7/25): Saint Leo U hosting summer residency

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Saint Leo U hosting summer residency

ST. LEO – Saint Leo University’s two-year, low-residency Master of Arts in Creative Writing Program is accepting applications until June 15, in fiction, nonfiction or poetry for the university’s upcoming cohort. 

The annual summer residency will take place during Summer 2 Term, July 14 to 19 at University Campus, 33701 County Road 52.

The master’s in creative writing is completed online with the exception of the two-week summer residency.

Information about the master’s degree program and graduate applications can be found at saintleo.edu/creativewriting.

Saint Leo is offering a creative writing micro-credential, which includes one summer residency, and not the full master’s curriculum, so participants can join in this year’s summer offering at a fraction of the price. The micro-credential in creative writing is open to anyone who holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in any subject, from any university or college, who loves to write.

Register for the micro-credential through Saint Leo’s Skills Academy at  https://skillsacademy.saintleo.edu/creativewriting. 

Not only will participants in the master’s program and micro-credential program learn from Saint Leo faculty, but they also will have the opportunity to work with four visiting writers: Phillippe Diedrich, Asa Drake, Heather Sellers, and Chrissy Kolaya.

Email Gianna Russo at for details. 

 

PCS cheers STEM students

LAND O’ LAKES – Pasco County Schools recognized three students for their selection into the 2025 Pasco County Sunshine State Scholars program. 

Mark Butler, of the district’s Office for Teaching and Learning, explained that Florida districts pick their top 11th grade students in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math.

Students must have at least a 3.9 grade point average, 25 hours of community service and experience with advanced STEM courses. 

Winners were as follows: 

  • Lucy Kossoff, of Wendell Krinn Technical High School, not only takes Advanced Placement courses but she’s also a leader on the school robotics team. 
  • Tana Pinilla, of Land O’ Lakes High School, has a 4.667 GPA and 107 community service hours.
  • Ryan Mizeski, of Hudson High School, has a 4.6744 GPA with 265 community service hours.

Each had the opportunity to attend a two-day program to network with peers, colleges and employers.

 

Grads to turn tassels

ST. LEO – More than 1,400 Saint Leo University students will participate in two commencement ceremonies May 7 at the Florida State Fairgrounds.

There will be 839 undergraduates (bachelor’s and associate degrees) participating and 581 master’s and doctoral degree recipients crossing the stage.

Being recognized among students from Saint Leo’s Center for Online Learning, are top performers, graduating with a 4.0 cumulative GPA and a minimum of at least 60 credit hours:  Frances Wesby from Grovetown, GA, graduating with a bachelor’s in business administration, and Kamera Woodruff from Madison, FL, graduating with a bachelor’s in elementary education.

The top performer for Saint Leo’s graduating seniors from its education centers, with a 4.0 cumulative GPA and a minimum of at least 60 credit hours, is Leslie Willis from Brooksville, FL, who is earning a bachelor’s in elementary education.

 

AP exams go digital

NEW YORK – Students will power up their computers instead of sharpening pencils this May as Advanced Placement Exams go digital, which officials say offer a more secure, streamlined and student-friendly testing experience.

Standard paper testing has been discontinued for 28 of the 36 AP subjects with end-of-course exams.

Exams for these 28 subjects are moving to the Bluebook digital testing application – the same platform used for the SAT and will be either fully digital or hybrid digital with a course-specific paper component for subjects that require graphic or symbolic notation.

 

Schools receive new trees

TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Environmental Science Division helped three schools add to their tree canopy through a hands-on educational opportunity in celebration of Arbor Day and Earth Month. 

Frost Elementary, Giunta Middle, and Lamb Elementary (in Palm River and Progress Village) received donated trees as part of the county’s second annual Classroom to Canopy Tree-Planting. 

Students had a chance to assist in the tree planting as the tree’s new home was refilled with soil to promote strong, resilient roots.

 

Quick Hits

  • The Florida Department of Education celebrated District Teacher of the Year on social media, including Pasco County Schools winner Elizabeth Skoglund, of Land O’ Lakes High School.
  • Maddison Bradford, of Cypress Creek High School, won the Pasco Young Entrepreneurs Competition.
  • Lacoochee Elementary School students qualified for the Odyssey of the Mind World Championships in Michigan.
  • Caitlyn Culpepper, of Odessa, was among the over 100 University of Mississippi students inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, an undergraduate honors organization. Culpepper majors in biochemistry and Spanish.
  • Dawn Stickle of Odessa, was recently elected to membership into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Business Digest (5/7/25): HomeWatch keeps an eye out

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HomeWatch keeps an eye out

TAMPA – HomeWatch Tampa has earned accreditation from the National Home Watch Association. 

The company provides peace of mind by offering reliable, personalized Home Watch services. 

Home Watch is a visual inspection of a home or property, keeping an eye on things at a vacation or primary home while you are not there.

Living in the Tampa Bay area for more than 20 years, founder Bill Iwanicki has been in the inspection industry for over five years, combining his passion for property care and client service. 

The decision to start his Home Watch business came from recognizing a need for trustworthy, detailed care for seasonal and absentee homeowners in his community. 

After becoming a licensed home inspector, Iwanicki gained experience working in real estate and home inspection. 

When not working, Iwanicki volunteers with Feeding Tampa Bay and the Boy Scouts. 

All principals of NHWA Accredited Member companies are background-checked, insured and bonded. HomeWatch Tampa serves Tampa, Lutz, Zephyrhills, Lakeland, Wesley Chapel, and Odessa. 

On the web: https://homewatchtampa.com.

 

Habitat board members win Heroes Among Us awards

SPRING HILL – Four board members from the Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside received Heroes Among Us Congressional Awards from U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis.

Charles Rogers, Mika Rotunda, Frank Starkey, Heidi Tuttle-Beisner and others were honored April 24 at Elks Lodge 2582 for devoting their time and efforts by volunteering with nonprofits and organizations throughout Citrus, Hernando and Pasco counties. 

A couple of the honorees have strong ties to Pasco County: 

  • Frank Starkey, president of People Places LLC, is helping Habitat take on the challenge of improving and revitalizing neighborhoods throughout West Pasco County. 
  • Heidi Tuttle-Beisner, broker/owner of Commercial Asset Partners Realty in New Port Richey. Serves on multiple boards between real estate, affordable housing and cancer research. 

“Our board members are committed to the Habitat mission and taking our message into their communities to find future homeowners, sponsors, and build our donor base,” said Mike Sutton, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside. 

 

Eatery offers $4 meal deal

TAMPA – Checkers & Rally’s has rolled out a new campaign, “This Eats Different,” to demonstrate that fast food should satisfy your hunger, fuel your energy and never drain your wallet.

The Tampa-based brand has a new $4 Unbeatable Meal Deal that includes a Cheese Double or Spicy Chicken sandwich, value-sized Famous Seasoned Fries, a 12-ounce drink, and a cinnamon apple pie. 

“People are tired of paying more and getting less,” said Scott Johnson, CMO of Checkers & Rally’s. “This deal is proof that value doesn’t have to be boring and flavor doesn’t have to break the bank.”

On the web: CheckersandRallys.com 

 

Ticket act cuts sticker shock

WASHINGTON – The TICKET Act, sponsored by Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), has passed the House. 

The bill is designed to improve transparency in the entertainment industry by requiring all event ticket sellers to display the total ticket price, including all required fees, upfront, provide refunds for cancelled or postponed events, and protect consumers from deceptive ticketing websites. The act mirrors advertising guidelines for airline tickets, requiring consumers to see the full price before buying. 

“There is nothing more disappointing for an avid fan than being lured into the prospect of an affordable ticket to see his or her favorite sports team or band only to learn later in the check-out process that the final price tag is significantly higher,” Bilirakis said. 

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will celebrate a pair of grand openings.

  • Members celebrate the grand opening of BayCare Medical Group from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 8 at 4501 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Suite 205, Wesley Chapel. The ribbon cutting starts at 11:30 a.m. Register in advance.
  • Members celebrate the grand opening of Andy’s Frozen Custard with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 9 at 19081 Wingshooter Way, Lutz. The ribbon cutting starts at 11:30 a.m. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange, Monthly Membership Breakfast and Young Professionals Group After Hours Social.

  • Members network and trade company literature during the Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 8 at SpringHill Suites, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Register in advance.
  • Alexis Muellner, editor of Tampa Bay Business Journal, speaks during the Monthly Membership Breakfast from 8:45 to 10 a.m. at Heritage Springs Country Club, 10047 Robert Trent Jones Pkwy., Trinity. Register in advance. The cost is $25 for members and $30 for others. 
  • Members of the Young Professionals Group network during After Hours Social from 5 to 7 p.m. May 9 at Whiskey Joe’s, 7835 Bayview St., Port Richey. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will host a Business Breakfast, ribbon cutting and Coffee & Networking events. 

  • The chamber celebrates the grand opening of AdventHealth Sports Med & Rehab from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 7 at 38233 Daughtery Road, Zephyrhills. The ribbon cutting starts at 11:15 a.m.
  • Members network during the Business Breakfast, sponsored by Lowman Law Firm, from 7 to 8:30 am. May 8 at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills. Register in advance. Registration costs $15. 
  • Members meet for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. May 9 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s Zephyrhills Office, 38550 5th Ave., Zephyrhills. 
  • Members meet for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. May 13 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s Dade City Office, 14112 8th St., Dade City. 

Visit eastpascochamber.org for details about the chamber and events. 

 

Bank of Tampa invests in local business community

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Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC president/CEO, accepts a check from Angie Gardner on behalf of Bank of Tampa. The funding will support a microloan program. Photo courtesy of Pasco EDC

LUTZ – Bank of Tampa has donated $2,500 to the SMARTstart Microloan Program, according to the Pasco Economic Development Council.

The program gives entrepreneurs the funds they need to start or grow their business. Its goal is to strengthen the Pasco County economy and create more job opportunities. 

“The Bank of Tampa is deeply committed to strengthening the communities where we live, work and play by supporting local businesses and organizations,” said Angie Gardner, vice president/commercial relationship manager for Bank of Tampa. “We are incredibly proud to contribute to Pasco EDC’s Microloan Fund, helping turn the dreams of small business owners into reality.”

To qualify for a microloan, businesses must be headquartered in Pasco County. Funds can be used for purchasing inventory and machinery, working capital, supplies and more.

“The SMARTstart Microloan Program has helped over 80 businesses to date, and we are excited to see more business growth in the future thanks to this program that would not be possible without generous donors like the Bank of Tampa,” said Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC president/CEO.

Those 80-plus businesses to benefit from the program have created more than 275 direct jobs.

Pasco EDC recently held its third annual Microloan Breakfast to give financial professionals an update on the program. Two microloan recipients shared their successes with the audience. 

Antonio Rodriguez, co-owner of Elite 360 Studio, was one of the presenters. 

“The SMARTstart Microloan Program from Pasco EDC was a true game-changer for Elite 360 Studio,” Rodriguez said. “The funding and support we received allowed us to invest in the equipment and resources essential to our growth. Beyond financial assistance, the program expanded our network and connected us with invaluable local resources. Pasco EDC’s commitment showed us they genuinely care about our success. We’re proud to be part of a community that champions and empowers small businesses.”

 

Want to learn more?

Visit www.smartstartpasco.com/microloan or contact program director Dan Mitchell at to learn more about the SMARTstart Microloan Program.

AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER welcomes patients

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AdventHealth leaders welcomed community leaders April 24 to a ribbon cutting of the new AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER. Photo courtesy of AdventHealth

WESLEY CHAPEL – AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER officially opened its doors to patients on April 29.

The 13,000-square-foot emergency department on Chapel Commerce Drive, between Zephyrhills and Wesley Chapel, features 12 patient beds, two triage rooms and offers imaging and lab services. The ER also has a pediatric-friendly room designed to take care of even the littlest of patients.

“Having an emergency room in a growing area like this is really about a partnership with our clinical teams, our physician providers, our EMS within AdventHealth as well as our EMS with Pasco County,” said Mike Murrill, president and CEO of AdventHealth Zephyrhills and AdventHealth Connerton. “What is so awesome about this building here is we all work together to serve our growing community. That’s what I am so excited about.”  

The AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER joins the organization’s 10 other freestanding emergency departments across the West Florida Division. It is the fifth AdventHealth ER in Pasco County. 

This also includes a dedicated EMS fleet of 21 ambulances and AdventHealth AirStar 1, a medical helicopter dedicated to critical patient transport across the Tampa Bay region.    

Construction of the new AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER cost $26 million. The project generated more than two dozen jobs in the Pasco County area.  

“The completion of this facility in just nine months is a testament to the exceptional collaboration and long-term relationship between our team, AdventHealth, and our trade contractor partners,” said Todd Watson, state division manager for Robins & Morton. “We are thrilled to deliver this facility in a timely manner to begin serving our Pasco County community.”

The AdventHealth Meadow Pointe ER is a department of AdventHealth Zephyrhills.  

Rodizio Grill is fired up for grand opening 

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Rodizio Grill has locations in Estero, Pensacola, Sarasota, Naples, Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando. Rendering courtesy of Rodizio Grill

WESLEY CHAPEL – Rodizio Grill will celebrate the grand opening of its sixth location in Florida on May 28 at 2082 Grand Cypress Drive in Lutz. 

Rodizio Grill pioneered the Brazilian “churrasco” steakhouse experience in the United States. Over the past three decades, the brand has expanded to nearly 25 locations across 14 states, offering guests an authentic Brazilian dining experience.

Rodizio Grill of Wesley Chapel marks the brand’s first ground-up construction. More than 150 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony on May 14, 2024. 

“I was truly amazed by the overwhelming support and enthusiasm for Rodizio Grill’s arrival in Wesley Chapel,” said Charlie Haney, owner of the local restaurant. “We’re not only excited to open our doors and welcome the community, but also to actively contribute to the area’s growth by creating jobs and supporting local initiatives in every way we can.” 

The restaurant will create more than 60 full & part-time jobs.

“The Wesley Chapel location is a major milestone for us, not only because of the growing demand in Florida but because it represents the next chapter for our brand’s continued expansion,” said Ivan Utrera, founder and president of Rodizio Grill.

Rodizio Grill is known for its playful Brazilian spirit, authentic menu offerings and family-friendly atmosphere. The concept features rotisserie-grilled meats that are seasoned and carved tableside by traditionally dressed Gauchos alongside an award-winning gourmet salad bar. Customers can also find hot side dishes, desserts and a range of handcrafted Brazilian drinks from fresh-pressed juices and Brazilian Limeades to signature cocktails.

Thiago Navarro will serve as general manager of the new location. Navarro has more than a decade of experience at Rodizio Grill. 

“Growing up in Brazil, many of my cherished memories were made at our local churrascaria, whether we were celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying time with family,” Navarro said. “Rodizio Grill captures the heart of those moments: the traditional flavors, the experience with the Gauchos and the warm atmosphere. I’m incredibly proud to bring a piece of Brazil to Wesley Chapel and excited to share my passion for our culture and the authentic Rodizio Grill experience with this community.”

Visit Rodizio.com to make a reservation or learn more about the restaurant.