Business Digest

Business Digest 03/22/2023

March 21, 2023 By B.C. Manion

CareerSource hiring event
CareerSource Tampa Bay will host an in-person hiring event on March 23 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at James A. Haley VA Hospital, 13000 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Tampa. A variety of career opportunities will be available. Visit https://careersourcetampabay.com/event/james-a-haley-veterans-hospital-job-fair/, to sign up.

Community adds 2,000 acres
Two Rivers, a new master-planned community in southeast Pasco, is expanding into Hillsborough County as developers have secured 2,000 additional acres, according to a news release.

The newly acquired land will add a luxury golf course designed by DMK Golf Design, a spa and other amenities to the approximately 6,000-acre residential, commercial and entertainment destination, the release adds.

The new Hillsborough section, named The Stewards at Two Rivers, will include three villages with estate homes, a private country club with a spa and recreational amenities. The Stewards also features an 18-hole golf course, with designs already underway and plans for a 2025 opening, according to a release.

To learn more, visit TwoRiversFL.com.

Pasco EDC seeks nominations
Nominations are being accepted by the Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) for its 2023 annual awards, which recognizes companies that are having extraordinary economic impact on their community.

The deadline for nominations is the close of business on April 28.

This year, Pasco EDC will recognize the achievements of top companies in Pasco County for their economic excellence in company growth, workforce improvement, and community involvement, according to a news release.

Finalists are interviewed by a committee of volunteers, and the winners will be announced at Pasco EDC’s 35th Annual Awards event on Sept. 7.

Nominees should be a “for profit” business-to-business company operating in Pasco County, excluding municipalities or affiliates.

If you know of a company outside of those parameters that has gone above and beyond their mission to show excellence, they may be nominated for consideration through the Special Contribution category.

Nominations can be submitted online at PascoEDC.com/events/details/35th-annual-awards.

This year’s categories are:

Pasco Establishment Award: The winner in this category must have established its Pasco County operations between January 2022 and December 2022.

This award will recognize a recently established company that is demonstrating substantial progress and/or has the potential for a significant community impact.

Economic Excellence Award: This award will go to a company that established its business in Pasco County between January 2022 and December 2022. It will recognize a business that has made a commitment to improving the overall economic health and quality of life in Pasco County, creating a diverse workforce, and providing exceptional value to customers, all while demonstrating ingenuity, integrity, and leadership.

Other award categories:

International Achievement Award: This award will recognize a business that has demonstrated outstanding achievements in international relations, global leadership, and export growth through its relationship with Pasco EDC, Enterprise Florida, or Global Tampa Bay. Nominees will be scored based on company growth, international program participation, workforce improvement, and community involvement.
SMARTstart Entrepreneur of the Year: This award will recognize an entrepreneur who has engaged in numerous SMARTstart programs. Through their experiences and education, they have turned their passion into a thriving business. Nominees will be scored based on company growth, SMARTstart involvement, and community impact as a leading start-up.

Cardel Homes celebrates 50th anniversary
Cardel Homes, celebrating a half-century in business, is a veteran in the residential development industry. It now operates as an integrated homebuilder and land developer in four regions, offering a wide range of products, including single-family homes, townhomes, condos and resort properties, according to a news release. Cardel is an international builder with operations in Florida, Colorado, Alberta and Ontario.

Business Digest 03/08/2023

March 7, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Tampa ranked among best places to live
Scholaroo, a finance website, has conducted an in-depth analysis of Best Cities to Live In, in 2023, and based on that research, Tampa ranked No. 9.

The analysis involved looking at 47 metrics, organized into eight key indicators of satisfaction and happiness, based on a news release from Scholaroo.

Those key indicators are: crime and safety; affordability; economy, quality of life; healthcare; education; employment and infrastructure.

Florida has two of the top best cities to live in, with Naples topping the list.

For the complete study and methodology, or additional details about 2023 Best Cities to Live In, visit https://scholaroo.com/report/best-cities-to-live/

USDA environmental incentives
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting applications through its Natural Resources Conservation Service for its Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP).

The funding is for fiscal year 2023 through March 2024, using funds provided through the Inflation Reduction Act.

The EQIP-IRA applications must include at least one core Climate Smart Agriculture and Forestry (CSAF) conservation practice or activity that directly improves soil carbon, reduces nitrogen losses, or reduces, captures, avoids or sequesters carbon dioxide, methane or nitrous emissions associated with agricultural productions, according to a USDA news release.

Facilitating practices or activities that are needed to implement the core practice may also be included.

Applications for EQIP-IRA will be accepted until March 24, 2023 and are available at local USDA Service Centers and online.

Applicants must have farm records established with USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). Advance payment options are available for historically underserved producers.

Tax service ribbon-cutting
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce is hosting a ribbon-cutting for American Financial Service and Tax at the chamber’s office, 1868 Highland Oaks Blvd., Suite A in Lutz. The celebration will be from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., with the ribbon-cutting at 4:30 p.m.

Pulte expands Whispering Pines community
Pulte Homes has acquired an additional 80 acres to expand its Whispering Pines community in Land O’ Lakes, according to a news release.

The community is currently under construction, off Lake Patience Road.

About 100 homes will be built on the acreage acquired in early January, the news release says.

At completion, Whispering Pines will have 330 single-family homes. The first phase of the project includes 228 homes.

Pre-sales are ongoing and the community is scheduled to host its grand opening from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 25, at 20876 Drake Elm Drive.

The sales center and three professionally decorated model homes will be open.

For more information, call 813-547-8725.

Pasco County job fair
Pasco County’s human resources department is holding an in-person job fair from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March 16 at the Pasco County Extension Office in Dade City, 36702 State Road 52.

Managers will be on-site to conduct on-the-spot interviews and applicants are advised to dress for success and bring several copies of their resume.

There are current openings in these categories: correctional officer trainees; utility positions; public works equipment operators; 911 dispatchers; firefighters; engineers; GoPasco bus drives; and field inspectors.

To learn more, visit MyPasco.net.

Greater Pasco Chamber is making a trip Tallahassee
The Greater Pasco Chamber’s public policy committee has invited chamber members to accompany its public policy committee for “Pasco County Day” in Tallahassee. The trip will allow visits with local representatives to advocate for industries and businesses.

The chartered bus is set to depart from New Port Richey at 6:30 a.m. on March 15 and return at 10 p.m. the same day.

Chamber member pricing for the chartered bus ride is $50, with a $10 discount if registered by March 10. Attendees are responsible for their own meals and any other personal costs incurred during the trip.

For more details, call the Greater Pasco Chamber, at 727-842-7651 or visit GreaterPasco.com.

East Pasco Networking Group
Featured speakers at the 7:30 a.m. March 14 breakfast meeting of the East Pasco Networking Group will be Al Hernandez, a member of the Pasco School Board; Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council Inc.; and Melonie Monson, former CEO of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber and a candidate for mayor of Zephyrhills.

The meeting will be IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City.

For more information, call Nils Lenz at 813-782-9491.

Business planning help
If you need help with handling business issues, you may be able to find the support you need through SCORE.org, an organization that provides workshops, a library of resources and business mentors. Visit the organization’s website to find out more about the free help that is available.

Business Digest 03/01/2023

February 28, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Pour-your-own candle shop
A new pour-you-own candle experience, offered by 3 Eleven Aroma, has opened at the KRATE at the Grove. The shop offers guests the opportunity to create candles from start to finish, using a combination of scents and choosing from a variety of candle sizes.

3 Eleven Aroma is open, but also plans to have a grand opening celebration on March 11.

KRATE at the Grove is an entertainment destination made from 94 repurposed shipping containers. It is located with the Grove at Wesley Chapel, at 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd.

Aroma Joe’s
Aroma Joe’s will celebrate its location at 3939 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, with a week of special events, Feb. 27 through March 3. The celebration will culminate with a community activation: 10% of all proceeds will be donated to Land O’ Lakes Christian School on March 3, according to a news release.

The 1,600-square-foot coffeehouse has drive-thru and walk-up options, and serves a variety of coffee and espresso drinks.

The location opened in August of 2022 and is owned and operated by one of the original founders of Aroma Joe’s, Marty McKenna and his wife, Marlene.

Business celebrations
These businesses recently held celebrations:

The Legacy at Highwoods Preserve, 18600 Highway Preserve Parkway, in Tampa,, held a grand reopening with a ribbon-cutting, live music and food on Feb. 21.
B&B Theatres, Wesley Chapel The Grove 16, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, had a ribbon cutting on Feb. 15 to celebrate its newly remodeled location. The theater now offers a variety of movie-going experiences. It also boasts two Premium Large Format Grand Screens, which are massive, wall-to-wall, curved screens — making the theater home to two of the largest movie screens in the nation.

NTBC Coffee Connection
The North Tampa Bay Chamber has its Coffee Connections networking session every third Friday of the month, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Coffee Speaks n Tea Talks, 19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Tampa. Coffee Connection provides a chance to mingle with other chamber members and community leaders, and to make friends and exchange ideas.

For more information, call Nils Lenz at 813-782-9491.

SWFMD governing board appointments
Gov. Ron DeSantis has appointed three members to the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFMD) Governing Board, according to a SWFMD news release.

The governor appointed James Holton, Dustin Rowland and Robert Stern to the board.

Holton, of St. Petersburg, is the president and owner of JWH Properties Inc., MHH Enterprises Inc. and James W. Holton, P.A. He earned his bachelor degree from Stanford University and his master degree and juris doctor from Boston University. Holton represents Pinellas County.

Rowland, of Dade City, is the president and owner of Rowland Truck Lines. He graduated from Zephyrhills High School in 1994. Rowland represents Pasco County.

Stern, of Tampa, is a partner and attorney for Trenam Law. Stern earned his bachelor degree in business administration and his juris doctor from the University of Florida. Stern represents Hillsborough County.

The appointments are subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

Members on the governing board are volunteers. The board sets policy for SWFMD, which has the responsibility of managing water and related resources in West Central Florida to meet the needs of current and future water users while protecting the environment.

Business Digest 02/08/2023

February 7, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Melanie McCann joins SMARTstart
Melanie McCann has joined the Pasco Economic Development Council’s SMARTstart team. She will be assisting West Pasco entrepreneurs from the Holiday entrepreneur center, which will be opening this year at the new AmSkills building. She also will work on upcoming events.

Fifth Third Bank opens new location
Fifth Third Bank has opened a location at Collier Commons. It is the first of seven branches it plans to open in the Tampa Bay area this year, with more to follow in 2024, according to a news release.

The 3,150-square-foot financial center features the new Next Gen design, focusing on an open environment and equipped with the latest technology.

It is located at 22850 State Road 54, in Land O’ Lakes.

Grand opening festivities were set for Feb. 2 (after The Laker/Lutz News deadline). Festivities were expected to include a ribbon-cutting with the North Tampa Bay Chamber, food, attendance by elected leaders, giveaways, and appearances by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers cheerleaders and the team mascot, Captain Fear.

Digital literacy efforts
Spectrum representatives, Florida Sen. Danny Burgess and members of the community had a celebration on Jan. 31 at the Lewis Abraham Lacoochee Boys & Girls Club, according to a news release.

During the celebration, which included a barbecue dinner, Spectrum presented a $10,000 grant to expand high speed broadband to the club.

The event also featured three student winners in an essay contest.

The club is at 38724 Mudcat Grant Blvd., in Dade City. Spectrum’s grant is intended to support digital literacy efforts in Dade City.

USDA launches pilot library
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has launched its pilot Cattle Contracts Library, on the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) Cattle Contract Library webpage, according to a news release.

The pilot library’s aim is to increase market transparency for cattle producers.

This library will provide new disclosure to the industry and public regarding the key terms, conditions, and volumes under which cattle are contracted, bringing sunshine to practices in what is now the largest part of the cattle market, the release says.

This will empower cattle producers to negotiate better terms, more carefully monitor risks relating to marketing preferences and pricing practices, and ultimately take better advantage of market opportunities to produce cattle that the market demands.

The initial release of the library will allow users to browse a range of terms and information contained in active contracts used for the purchase of fed cattle. In addition to active contracts in use, the library will provide information on terms most commonly used in cattle contracts, such as base price determination, base price adjustments and selling basis options; contract specifications for such things as quality, yield, breed, weight, delivery, financing, profit/risk-sharing, and more (where present in a contract); and the full range of premiums and discounts used in final price determination, the release says.

For more information, visit www.ams.usda.gov/market-news/livestock-poultry-grain/cattle-contracts-library.

Small business health care
Learn about your options for choosing a health insurance package for your small business during this Pasco-Hernando Score Webinar on Feb. 9 from noon to 1 p.m.

Danette Wilson, a Pasco-Hernando Score volunteer, will lead the webinar which will cover details you need to consider when selecting health care coverage.

Depending on your business characteristics and employee makeup, one form of health insurance benefit will fit your needs better than another. The webinar also will review the types of coverage available when leaving your current employer. Medicare will be covered, too.

To register for the event, go to Score.org/pascohernando.

Utilizing YouTube
Whether you are creating video ads on Facebook or uploading promo videos on YouTube, video helps drive customers to your business. This webinar presentation will give you some basic ideas of how to incorporate videos in your marketing plan. Professor Greta Kishbaugh, president of BizDynamic Group, will present the webinar on Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. To register, go to Score.org/pascohernando.

Grow Pasco
SMARTstart will present its third annual Grow Pasco on March 4 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Hyatt Place Tampa Wesley Chapel, 26000 Sierra Center Blvd., in Lutz (but in an area that’s generally considered to be Wesley Chapel).

The cost is $45, which includes a continental breakfast and lunch.

The event includes 15 breakout sessions aimed at engaging everyone from budding entrepreneurs to established business leaders.

The keynote speaker for the event is Dr. Edmondo Robinson, the chief digital officer at Moffitt Cancer Center. He will discuss a broad array of uses for technology in the areas of predictive analysis, product development, consumer engagement and business operational efficiencies.

To register for Grow Pasco, visit the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website at PascoEDC.com, and click on the events tab.

Commerce and Connections
The North Tampa Bay Chamber has its Commerce and Coffee from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., every fourth Tuesday of the month, at Raining Berries, 25595 Sierra Center Blvd., in Lutz. Bring some business cards and make some connections in a social, no-agenda atmosphere.

Business Digest 02/01/2023

January 31, 2023 By B.C. Manion

(Courtesy of Courtesy of Cresco Labs / Sunnyside)

Sunnyside Lutz opens
Sunnyside Lutz is a cannabis dispensary at 21708 State Road 54 in Lutz, and is Cresco Labs’ 22^nd location in Florida.

Sunnyside is best known in Florida’s cannabis industry for its bright, welcoming store environment, patient-focused service, knowledgeable wellness advisors and wide assortment of top-quality branded cannabis products, according to a news release.

Sunnyside Lutz offers products from Cresco Labs’ branded portfolio including Cresco, One Plant, Supply, Good News, Remedi and Sunnyside.

For more information, visit Sunnyside.shop online.

New board member
Sola Adewunmi, CCMA AMS, has been named to the board of directors at Gulfside Healthcare Services.

Adewunmi is now one of 10 community leaders who provide oversight and support to the nonprofit organization.

Adewunmi is the community manager at Greenacre Properties Inc., and has extensive professional background in television broadcast news.

Gulfside’s board members volunteer their leadership, expertise and talents to ensure the organization stays focused as it pursues its mission and vision.

Under new management
Smoothie King at Trinity Village Center, 10720 State Road 54, in Trinity, is under new management. The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce had a ribbon-cutting on Jan. 28 to celebrate.

PNC Bank pledges donation
PNC Bank has pledged $500,000 for a new education center at the Tampa Museum of Art.

The donation is part of the museum’s Centennial Campaign. It will be used for education and exhibition programming at the new PNC Family Classroom and Gallery, a new 1,680-square-foot space in the museum’s renovated and expanded Vinik Family Education Center.

The Tampa Museum of Art is at 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, in downtown Tampa.

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group meets on the second Tuesday of the month (except for December), at 7:30 a.m. It gathers at the IHOP, at 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City.

The group’s meetings feature speakers from a wide array of backgrounds.

Here is a list of the upcoming speakers, scheduled through May:

Feb. 8: Bob Hatfield, from the office of U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, and Madonna Wise, an author and retired educator
March 14: Al Hernandez, newly elected member of the Pasco County School Board, and Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council
April 11: Christopher Dester, founder of the Academy of Spectrum Diversity, and Col. Jeff Harrington, of the Pasco Sheriff’s Office
May 9: Mike Moore, former board member on the Pasco County Commission, now with The Southern Group.

For more information, contact Nils Lenz, 813-782-9491 or

Credit union earns distinction
Suncoast Credit Union announced it has earned the Juntos Avanzamos designation for its commitment to serving and empowering the Hispanic community.

Translated as “Together We Advance,” Juntos Avanzamos credit unions help those who remain largely unbanked and vulnerable, according to the news release.

To qualify for the Juntos Avanzamos accreditation, credit unions must complete an extensive process to demonstrate how they serve Spanish-speaking people through inclusive underwriting policies, financial education, and affordable loans.

This initiative showcases that working together with underserved communities is vital to helping achieve financial security and independence.

To celebrate the Juntos Avanzamos designation, the credit union hosted a proclamation ceremony on Jan. 24, including food, a mariachi band performance, giveaways, entertainment, and community networking at the Galleria Service Center branch in Tampa.

Chartered in 1934 as Hillsborough County Teachers Credit Union, Suncoast Credit Union currently operates 75 full-service branches and serves more than one million members in 40 counties across Florida.

Sae Cooper joins Weichert Realtors
Weichert, Realtors — Exclusive Properties has announced that Sae Cooper has joined its Tampa office, at 3903 Northdale Blvd., Suite 100E.

Florida ranks No. 1 for retirement
The personal-finance website has released its report on 2023’s Best States to Retire and Florida leads the list.

WalletHub compared the 50 states across 47 key metrics. Our analysis examines affordability, health-related factors and overall quality of life.

Here’s a snapshot of some of the findings, according to a news release.

Florida ranked:

13^th in annual cost of in-home services
Sixth in WalletHub ‘Taxpayer’ ranking
Second in percentage of population aged 65 and older
19^th in property crime rate
Ninth in life expectancy
22^nd in percentages of people age 12 or older who have been vaccinated against COVID-19

For the full report, visit WalletHub.com/edu/best-and-worst-states-to-retire/18592.

SCORE seeks participants
Research participants are needed on a study called: “Social Capital: Impact on the Growth of Woman-Owned Healthcare Small Businesses in the United States.”

The study involves a 60-minute confidential Zoom interview.

It is seeking participants who answer yes to these questions:

Are you a woman who owns a business in the health care industry?
Is your business headquartered in the United States?
Is the business five years old, or older?
Do you have at least one and fewer than 50 employees?

If your answer was yes to all of these questions, Tracy Shaw would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you. To reach Shaw, email .

Spirit Achievement awards
Darcie Glazer Kassewitz and Rhea Law will receive honors during the Junior Achievement of Tampa Bay’s 2023 achievement awards dinner.

Kassewitz is president/owner of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Foundation and president of the Glazer Vision Foundation. Law is the president of the University of South Florida.

Both women will be honored for their personal and professional accomplishments, for giving back to the community and for the work that they’ve done to make a positive impact in the Tampa Bay area, according to a news release.

Both women will receive the Spirit Achievement Award during an awards dinner scheduled for March 9 at Armature Works, Tampa Bay.

For tickets and sponsorship information, call 813-605-1764, visit JATampaBay.org, or email .

Business Digest 01/11/2023

January 10, 2023 By B.C. Manion

Pasco EDC luncheon
Registrations are being accepted through Jan. 12 for the Pasco Economic Development Council’s 22^nd Economic Forecast Luncheon. The luncheon will feature two speakers, one focusing on the economic drivers for Pasco County’s economy and the other offering a national perspective. The luncheon will be on Jan. 19, with check-in and networking beginning at 11 a.m., and the lunch and presentation from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. The event will be at the Heritage Springs Country Club, at 11345 Robert Trent Jones Parkway, in Trinity. The cost is $35. To register, go to PascoEDC.com, and click on the event.

Business celebrations
These events were announced by the North Tampa Bay Chamber:

Tampa Fine Arts Academy, 17888 U.S. 41, in Lutz: Ribbon-cutting and open house on Jan. 18, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The academy will provide music lessons.
AllVitae Health & Chiropractic is having a ribbon-cutting and grand opening on Jan. 19, at 10:30 a.m. to noon. The event is at 17841 Hunting Bow Circle, Suite 101, in Lutz.

Florida growth ranks second
Florida is the No. 2 growth state for the second year in a row and a top-three growth state for the seventh consecutive year, according to information provided by U-Haul.

The statistics are based on the U-Haul Growth Index analyzing customer moves during 2022, a U-Haul news release said.

People arriving in Florida in one-way U-Haul trucks dropped 10% from 2021, but departures fell nearly 11% as overall moving traffic slowed.

Do-it-yourself movers arriving in the Sunshine State accounted for 50.7% of all one-way U-Haul truck traffic in and out of Florida (49.3% departures) to keep it a top-two growth state.

Business planning help
If you need help with handling business issues, you may be able to find the support you need through SCORE.org. That’s an organization that provides workshops, a library of resources and business mentors. Visit the organization’s website to find out more about the free help that’s available.

Pasco County Corrections receives high marks
The Pasco County Corrections Center received high marks from Florida Model Jail Standards (FMJS) inspectors following an annual inspection, according to a Pasco County news release.

After spending two days auditing the facility in November, inspectors noted the staff’s high level of professionalism and its positive morale, the news release said.

Inspectors found the jail to be compliant with their standards and reported no serious violations, the news release added.

Also, inspectors noted the cleanliness of the facility.

“We work hard in upholding the rules and regulations set forth by the Florida Model Jail Standards Commission and are proud of the inspection results,” Corrections Chief Stacey Jenkins said in the release. “I give credit to our dedicated corrections officers who keep our jail clean and safe — for both team members and inmates.”

Inspectors checked over the jail’s housing units, mailroom, programs area, training, armory, laundry, loading dock, maintenance area, kitchen, commissary, intake section, and releasing and classification.

Pasco County began operating the Pasco County Corrections Center on Oct. 1.

Business Digest 01/04/2023

January 3, 2023 By B.C. Manion

New KFC in Land O’ Lakes
Kentucky Fried Chicken has a new location at 17750 Aprile Drive, in Land O’Lakes, according to a news release. “We are excited to open a new KFC restaurant in Land O’ Lakes to serve the interests of the local community,” Tonya Mangels, vice president of marketing activation, KBP Brands, said in the release. This is KBP Brands’ 21st KFC restaurant in the greater Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg metro area and its 52nd KFC location in Florida. KBP Brands plans to hire 50-plus new team members. Apply at KFC.com/careers.

SCORE.org is redesigned
SCORE.org has redesigned its website, with the aim of creating easy access to its resources. With the new website, users can select the stage their business is in to find training, resources, and mentors for assistance. SCORE.org offers an extensive library of small business how-to resources. It also has 227 chapters across the county, offering local mentors, business resources and events. To check the local website, visit PascoHernando.score.org.

Florida’s unemployment rate
Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Dec. 16 that Florida’s unemployment rate dropped to 2.6% — the lowest among the nation’s top ten largest states and 1.1 % lower than the national rate.

Hooters gives back
The 11 Tampa Bay area Hooters locations helped spread the joy this holiday season by giving back to local charities.

The restaurant donated to several local organizations including The Arc Tampa Bay, Children’s Cancer Center, Pasco County Foster Adoptive Parent Association, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, Metropolitan Ministries and Children With A Vision, according to a news release.

“Our employees like to get involved and make a difference in our community year-round especially during the holiday season. We have many longstanding partnerships with local organizations that help many children and brighten their holiday. Being an active partner in the community is a priority to our company,” HMC Hospitality Group Chief Marketing Officer Denise Williams said, in the release.

EōS Fitness opens
EōS Fitness, a gym chain, has opened a new location in Land O’ Lakes, at 2194 Argosy Drive. This is the company’s sixth location in Florida, according to a news release.

Its offerings support members throughout the entire warmup/workout/recovery cycle, including EōS Smart Strength equipment and The Tank. EōS Smart Strength’s seven-piece equipment line is a uniquely personalized experience using smart technology, empowering members with fitness solutions customized for their goals and needs, taking the guesswork out of strength training.

The Tank is an innovative new recovery space where members can properly recover from their workouts using percussion massagers, compression pants and professional-grade stretch tables.

“We are eager to share our passion for health, fitness and wellness and introduce a comprehensive fitness experience unlike any other to the community of Land O’ Lakes,” Richard Idgar, COO of EōS Fitness, said in the release. “No matter where our members are in their fitness journeys, EōS has something for everyone.”

Kat Brat Studios launch
Kat Brat Studios is hosting its company launch on Jan. 12 at 1 p.m., at the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce office, 1868 Highland Oaks Blvd., Suite A, in Lutz.

A RSVP is required through the chamber’s website. Those attending will have a chance to learn about the company’s aerial drone services, gamification marketing strategies and be introduced to its S.T.E.A.M. Expo 2023. To find out more about the visit, visit KatBratStudios.com, or email .

Chamber orientation
New members of the North Tampa Bay Chamber are invited to attend a new member orientation on Jan. 4 at 8 a.m. Visit the chamber’s website, at NorthTampaBayChamber.com, to register.

Networking Group meeting
Paul Conley, the district executive director of the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA, will be the featured speaker at the East Pasco Networking Group’s Jan. 20 breakfast meeting. The group meets at the IHOP in Dade City, 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City. Meetings begin at 7:30 a.m. For more information, contact Nils Lenz at or call 813-782-9491.

Pasco Fire public information officer hits milestone
Corey Dierdorff, public information officer (PIO) for Pasco County Fire Rescue, has been deemed a Master Public Information Officer, the highest certification awarded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

“Corey’s experience, combined with his newfound knowledge from the MPIO course, will benefit the Pasco County community as we continue our efforts to keep the public safe and informed,” Fire Rescue Chief Scott Cassin, said in a Pasco County news release. “His approach to sharing our news is strengthening our relationships with the community and our media partners – and will bolster close relationships for years to come.”

Dierdorff’s experience include public information work in television news and six years as PIO for two Tampa Bay area fire departments. He has served in the joint operations center for several significant events, including natural disasters, the College Football Playoffs in Tampa, Super Bowl LV and the Florida State Fair.

The certification he achieved is held by 137 people across the country.

Business Digest 11/30/2022

November 29, 2022 By B.C. Manion

From left, PulteGroup West Florida team members Kelli Bailey, Cheryl Jones, Joanna Lopez, Allison Medich, Keeley Platt and Nicole Tumminia help collect turkey for local food banks. In total, more than 400 turkeys were collected. Residents at Del Webb Bexley in Land O’ Lakes were among those participating. (Courtesy of Candace Rotolo)

Helping others at Thanksgiving
Residents at Del Webb Bexley in Land O’ Lakes and Pulte employees hosted a Turkey Drive to on Nov. 16, to benefit Metropolitan Ministries, according to a news release.

The Del Webb Bexley turkey drive was one of four that took place simultaneously at Pulte communities throughout the homebuilder’s West Florida Division, and their division office in Riverview, the release said. In total, more than 400 turkeys were donated.

Part-time job fair
Vinik Sports Group will host a job fair on Dec. 1 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Applicants are asked to go to the Cigar City Brewing Taproom at 375 Channelside Drive, under the Pam Iorio Parking Garage next to the west plaza at AMALIE Arena.

The job fair is being held to fill positions for the Tampa Bay Lightning, AMALIE Arena and Yuengling Center. There are a number of positions available for housekeeping, starting at $14 an hour and conversion, starting at $14.50 an hour.

An overnight shift for any of the positions pays an additional $2 per hour.

Candidates should dress professionally, bring three copies of their resume and written references. Applicants also are encouraged to pre-apply at viniksportsgroup.com/careers.

Candidates are asked to park in the Green Lot for the job fair. There will be no charge for parking there.

Business celebrations

The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce announced a ribbon-cutting that was held for GYMGUYZ on Nov. 28, at Florida Avenue Brewing Company, 2029 Arrowgrass Drive in Wesley Chapel.
Whit’s Frozen Custard of Land O’ Lakes announced its grand opening, which was held on Nov. 17. The shop offers freshly made frozen custard every day. It is at 7906 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

Chamber breakfast meeting
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will hold its annual membership breakfast meeting on Dec. 6 at 7:30 a.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The meeting, which will be hosted by Board Chairman Javan Grant, will include a recognition for volunteers, a salute to outgoing board members, a swearing-in ceremony for new board members, the installation of the new board chair and a look ahead to 2023.

The cost is $25 for members and $30 for nonmembers. Registration and payment are required in advance.

Networking starts at 7:30 a.m., with the breakfast beginning at 8 a.m.

For more information, call 813-994-8534, or email

Light industrial development
Pasco County has removed the light industrial and target industry cap for businesses in the Central Pasco Employment Village (CPEV).

“The removal of the cap on businesses will undoubtedly attract more businesses and more high-paying jobs to Pasco,” Pasco County Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey said, in a county news release. “We’re all for smart growth involving businesses, and these new rules allow us to better plan for the future.”

The CPEV originally was created to drive business growth, including supporting residential and retail land uses. Now, there’s no limit on the size of businesses hoping to open – allowing that area of the county to achieve this policy objective, the release says.

Commissioner Mike Moore, whose last day in office was Nov. 21, advocated the removal of the cap to help spur more high-paying jobs in Pasco.

“If someone wants to bring high-paying jobs to our community in the Central Pasco Employment Village, they can, without worrying about entitlement caps. Working closer to home and spending more time with the family provides better quality of life,” Moore said, in the news release.

Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council, weighed in, too.

“We applaud the Pasco Board of County Commissioners for creating a culture that invites more industry and jobs,” Cronin said. “We can truly say our local leaders provide a pro-business environment for the community and those looking to locate here in the future.”

To learn more about business resources in Pasco County, visit bit.ly/PascoEconomicGrowth.

Business Digest 11/16/2022

November 16, 2022 By B.C. Manion

Carrabba’s Cares event
Carrabba’s Italian Grill, at 25928 Sierra Center Blvd., in Cypress Creek Town Center, will host a Carrabba’s Cares event on Nov. 17 to support Thomas Promise, a nonprofit dedicated to helping provide meals for school children, according to a news release.

At the same time as the event, the restaurant will be showing off a completely original look and feel at its new location in an area commonly known as Wesley Chapel, despite its Lutz postal address.

The special event will run from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., with Carrabba’s donating 100% of the day’s sales, up to $3,000, to Thomas Promise.

The design aims to create a sophisticated but relaxed setting that blends Italian heritage with modern style. It also maximizes efficiency and guest comfort with a reimagined takeout space, the news release says.

Vistra adds new VP of Federal Business Growth
Vistra Communications, based in Lutz, has announced the hiring of Gregory Reyes as its new vice president of business growth.

The appointment demonstrates Vistra’s commitment to enhancing its federal government presence in the national capital region and beyond, according to a Vistra news release.

Vistra provides services to a wide range of federal government agencies.

“Greg Reyes’ addition to our company provides strategic business development leadership in the federal marketplace and emerging markets, allowing us to continue to focus on what we do best in this space,” Vistra CEO and founder Brian Butler, said in the release. “This allows Vistra to better serve our target markets by leveraging a consultative approach and industry best practices to ensure client success.”

Pulte Group wins builders’ awards
The West Florida Division of PulteGroup brought home multiple honors at the 2022 Tampa Bay Builders Association’s Awards of Excellence, according to a news release.

The division earned top awards for its sales, building, and marketing efforts. Several individuals also won awards.

Division President Sean Strickler received the Leadership Appreciation Award for his exemplary leadership of the company over the past year, the release said.

He has guided the construction of an expected 1,500-plus homes this year and expanded the division by 20%.

His leadership also has inspired team members who feel valued, included, empowered, and respected, the release added.

Other awards went to:

Kelli Bailey: Sales director/vice president of the year
Zach Garber, Andrew Rizzo, and Shane White: Recipients of the Golden Hammer Award
“Built to Honor”: Recipient of The Best Special Event/Charity/PR Campaign
Jacque Gendron: Sales Manager/Director of the Year

The 20-plus Million Dollar Circle recognized Michelle Moss, Renee Gatian, Tracey Brown, Jeremy Epperson, Alex Krumbholz, Christopher Harvey, Jessica Quigley, Dustin Conkright, and Neal Wadhwani

Nick Richardson: Salesperson of the Year, in the $551,000 to $600,000 category
Jessica Quiqley: Salesperson of the Year, in the $400,000 to $450,000 category
Trace Williams: Rookie Salesperson of the Year
Best Billboard: Del Webb community of Bexley
Best Floorplan: The Roseland model at the Hawks Reserve community in Riverview

JCPenney helps Hurricane Ian victims
JCPenney has donated $2.4 million in goods to the Salvation Army for Hurricane Ian relief efforts in Florida. It donated 130,000 units of new clothing, bedding and homewares to help families affected by Hurricane Ian.

Business celebration
The North Tampa Bay Chamber has announced that Fabulously Made Salon & Hair Loss Solutions, 8909 Regents Park Drive, Suite 415, is holding its ribbon cutting on Nov. 16, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. RSVP to Johana via text at 813-444-3229.

Florida ranks high on training workers
Florida’s focus on training workers with technical skills and credentials is paying off as the Sunshine State has been named No. 1 in the United States for attracting and developing a skilled workforce, according to an announcement released by the Office of Gov. Ron DeSantis.

The release says Florida’s ranking is part of Lightcast’s 2022 Talent Attraction Scorecard.

“By keeping Florida free and open, we have created a positive economic environment and invested in our state’s workforce and communities,” the governor said, in the release.

“As a result, Florida is leading the nation in net migration and talent attraction,” the governor added.

This is the seventh year Lightcast has prepared the scorecard. The report measures seven growth areas of the most recent five-year period including net migration of counties adding new residents, education attainment, job creation, skilled job creation, competitive effect, and average annual job openings.

One highlight shared in the release noted that Florida led the nation in talent attraction, with 15 of the state’s large counties listed within the top 50. Hillsborough County ranked No. 8 and Pasco County ranked No. 20 on that list, according to the release.

Florida also led all states in net migration, adding more than 388,000 residents between 2016-20, the release says.

Three Florida counties were among the top 10 large counties nationally, in net migration, including Pasco County, according to the release.

BBQ & Blues preparations
Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival is set for Jan. 13 and Jan. 14, and preparations have begun. The Kidz Grillin’ contest is back for Jan. 13 and there will be great sounds from local bands. On Jan. 14, there will be more music, as well as food and fun.

The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce welcomes volunteers and also businesses which would like to sign up to be part of the expo.

Free business advice
Pasco-Hernando SCORE offers free individual, confidential small business mentoring. It also provides a wealth of free, practical help for businesses.

To request a mentor or find out more, visit PascoHernando.score.org.

Business Digest 11/09/2022

November 7, 2022 By B.C. Manion

TD Bank opens new location
TD Bank has opened a new location at 2121 Collier Parkway, in Land O’ Lakes, marking its fourth in Pasco County, according to a news release.

The bank celebrate the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a community event. It also made a donation to Learning Your Function Inc., a nonprofit that helps people with disabilities to learn life skills and make independent choices.

This TD location will feature:

An advice center format, which allows TD colleagues to have advice conversations with customers about their financial goals, along with conducting routine banking activities and account openings
Sit-stand workstations that enable employees to adapt their style to the type of conversation being had with a customer or the amount of traffic expected on a given day
On-site ATMs for customers’ added convenience

“TD Bank is deeply dedicated to the communities it serves, and the opening of our newest advice center store in Land o’ Lakes underscores our commitment to serving Florida,” said Randy Estrada, retail market president for North Florida, in the release.

“We look forward to enhancing the community by offering a tailored advice and guidance store concept to our customers, and helping them achieve their financial goals,” he added.

Chamber celebrates excellence
The 2022 North Tampa Bay Chamber’s Celebrating Excellence Awards is set for Nov. 10 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Treble Makers, 6034 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel. The event fee is $40 per person, which includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar.

The categories and finalists are:

Innovation: Reimagined Experiences, Innovation Prep, Junk Luggers
Inclusivity: RAW Space Collaborative, PACE Center for Girls, Woodies Wash Shack
Integrity: Blue Heron Senior Living, RADDSports, Shred 360
Collaboration: FUNdamental Minds, AMSkills, RADDSports

For more information, email .

Business celebrations
North Tampa Bay Chamber has announced:

Butcher’s Mark will have its ribbon cutting and grand opening on Nov. 9 at 10 a.m., at 12351 State Road 54, in Odessa.
A grand reopening celebration of Tampa Gardens Senior Living was held on Nov. 2, at 16702 N. Dale Mabry Highway, in Tampa.
Athleta celebrated its first anniversary on Nov. 4, at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28250 Paseo Drive, Suite 180, in Wesley Chapel.

PruittHealth opens in Lutz
PruitttHealth, at 18940 Sunlake Blvd., has opened a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center in Lutz. The 90-bed center include 66 private suites and 24 private concierge suites. It provides 24-hour skilled nursing and wellness services. It is expected to serve more than 1,000 patients annually and employ more than 100 people.

Weichert adds team members
Weichert, Realtors® – Exclusive Properties, at 3903 Northdale Blvd., Suite 100E, in Tampa has added Carol Chappetto and Edward Gamble to their team.

The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce welcomes volunteers and also businesses who would like to sign up to be part of the expo.

SMARTstart celebrated
The Pasco Economic Development Council is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its SMARTstart program, which serves Pasco entrepreneurs.

The program began in 2012 with seed funding from Florida High Tech Corridor, and in 2016, an agreement was made with Pasco County to use a portion of Penny for Pasco proceeds to support the program, according to a news release.

The program provides tools needed by new and growing businesses for long-term success.

It offers low-cost workspace, educational resources, guidance, funding and a collaborative environment for area entrepreneurs.

In 2011, a microloan funds was established to help businesses unable to secure traditional financing.

“We’re focused on building an innovation ecosystem with programs like SMARTstart that empower entrepreneurs to find success and make a difference in their community. What the Pasco County EDC team ‪has accomplished in 10 years, not only for their local economy but for our region and beyond, is ‪tremendous. Multiply that impact by other incubators across our region and you can see why The Corridor ‪is a hot spot for innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Paul Sohl, CEO of the Florida High Tech Corridor.

‪Over the last decade, there have been 524 program participants, 160 incubator members, and 68 microloan recipients who were awarded a total of $2,116,400.

‪“Developing a strong ecosystem for entrepreneurs is crucial for a community. SMARTstart provides access ‪to many resources, which give starters the opportunity to build a strong foundation for their ideas and ‪troubleshoot them before launch,” said Bill Cronin, president/CEO, Pasco EDC. “This program is a terrific ‪example of the Penny for Pasco supporting its community.”

‪“All of our programs work together. If you need support from all five areas, you can get it. If you only need ‪one or two, we will customize your track as needed,” shared Dan Mitchell, program director for SMARTstart.

“Every entrepreneur has a story of adversity and of overcoming obstacles, and we look forward to ‪continuing to be a part of these stories,” he said, in the release.