Business Digest

Business Digest 10/10/2018

October 10, 2018 By B.C. Manion

Halloween candy needed
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce is collecting Halloween candy for the Pasco County Recreational Complex’s Halloween Party. Please drop donations off by Oct. 17 at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce Office, at 1930 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite 16, in Lutz. Or, call the chamber at (813) 909-2722 to arrange a pickup.

Tax implications for small businesses
There will be a seminar to discuss federal and Florida business entities, and how to create them, on Oct. 11 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New River Branch Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. It also will cover other state and local licensing requirements, federal and state employment taxes, federal income taxes and other issues. To register for the free seminar, go to PascoHernando.score.org.

Downtown Avalon Park West groundbreaking
The development and management team from Avalon Park West will kickstart the beginning of the community’s downtown by answering questions regarding its first commercial building, charter school, and future commercial and mixed-use space in the downtown area. The event will be Oct. 11 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Avalon Park West is at 33613 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel.

North Tampa Bay Chamber nominations
Nominations are being accepted for the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce’s annual Excellence in Business awards.

Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, according to a news release from the chamber.

Here are the categories:

Excellence in Business, small business (up to 49 employees): These businesses and the people who provide leadership for them have a profound effect on the business environment and economy of North Tampa Bay.
Excellence in Business, large business (50 employees or more): These businesses and the people who provide leadership for them have a profound effect on the business environment and economy of North Tampa Bay.
Volunteer of the year: Recognizing a community leader who donates his or her time to chamber activities and events.
Business leader of the year: Must be the founder, owner, CEO or president who best exemplifies generously giving time, money, staff and/or facilities for community benefit.
New business of the year: This award recognizes a local company that has been in business for fewer than three years, which is financially viable and potentially scalable.
Dorothy Mitchell Legacy Award: Lifetime achievement award given to a community leader who has had a lasting positive impact on our community.

Nominations are due by Oct. 12. Finalists will be announced the week of Oct. 29.

The awards ceremony will be on the evening of Nov. 8, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel.

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

NFIB Summit
The National Federation of Independent Businesses is having a summit on Oct. 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Copperstone Executive Suites, 3632 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. The organization advocates for small businesses regarding public policy issues at the local, state and federal levels, which affect small businesses. Networking begins at 5:30 p.m., with the program starting at 6 p.m. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Dade City Chamber breakfast
The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce will have a breakfast meeting Oct. 16 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at 13100 Fort King Road in Dade City, Education Room 108. The meeting will feature Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez who will share a “State of the City” report. Anyone wishing to attend must RSVP by calling the chamber at (352) 567-3769. The cost is $10 for members and $15 for nonmembers.

Business Digest 10/03/2018

October 3, 2018 By B.C. Manion

Networking Group features Mike Wells Jr.
Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Wells Jr., will be the featured speaker at the East Pasco Networking Group breakfast meeting Oct. 9, starting at 7:30 p.m. The group meets at IHOP Dade City, at 13100 US 301 in Dade City. For more information, contact Nils Lenz, at (813) 782-9491 or .

Hispanic Heritage celebration
ViVa North Tampa Bay will celebrate Hispanic Heritage on Oct. 9 from noon to 2 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando Porter Campus at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. The cost is $25. A panel discussion is planned featuring Jay Rasario, owner of Wesley Chapel Nissan; Janet Cruz, of the Florida House of Representatives; Roberto Seaz, the owner/principal, Design & Construction Innovations; and Margarita Romo, executive director, Farmworkers Self-Help Inc.

Two-part financial series
Learn simple monthly budgeting, how to reduce debt and increase saving in this two-part financial series on Oct. 19 and Oct. 26, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The courses will be at CREATION Health & Wellness, 38233 Daughtery Road in Zephyrhills.

Reservations are required by calling (813) 779-6476.

Succeeding in business: From theory to practice
A session is planned on Oct. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., aimed at helping companies make smart decisions about their financial future. Representatives from BB&T will address such issues as personal banking, cash flow, borrowing solutions, insurance, employees and other issues. The seminar will be at the Dade City Entrepreneur Center, 37837 Meridian Ave., No. 309, in Dade City. This is a first in a series of eight free sessions. Other sessions will cover marketing, aligning to your company’s core, identifying customers, taking the guesswork out of leasing, human resources, legal issues and planning.

RSVP for the banking session at SmartStartPasco.com/events.

Second annual Zephyrhills Economic Summit
The second annual Zephyrhills Economic Summit is set for Oct. 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at New City Hall, 5335 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills. The program includes these topics: The City of Zephyrhills: Ready for Growth; State and local representatives: Education; Local: Zephyrhills High School Career Academies; and, Hear it first: Business BizWalk Results.

The event costs $10. RSVP by calling (813) 782-1913.

North Tampa Bay Chamber nominations
Nominations are being accepted for the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce’s annual Excellence in Business awards.

Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, according to a news release from the chamber.

Here are the categories:

Excellence in Business, small business (up to 49 employees): These businesses and the people who provide leadership for them have a profound effect on the business environment and economy of North Tampa Bay.
Excellence in Business, large business (50 employees or more): These businesses and the people who provide leadership for them have a profound effect on the business environment and economy of North Tampa Bay.
Volunteer of the year: Recognizing a community leader who donates his or her time to chamber activities and events.
Business leader of the year: Must be the founder, owner, CEO or president who best exemplifies generously giving time, money, staff and/or facilities for community benefit.
New business of the year: This award recognizes a local company that has been in business for fewer than three years, which is financially viable and potentially scalable.
Dorothy Mitchell Legacy Award: Lifetime achievement award given to a community leader who has had a lasting positive impact on our community.

Nominations are due by Oct. 12. Finalists will be announced the week of Oct. 29.

The awards ceremony will be on the evening of Nov. 8, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel.

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

Co.Starters East Pasco
Co.Starters will offer a nine-week program on Oct. 23, with sessions running from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the SMARTstart Dade City Entrepreneur Center, 37837 Meridian Ave., No. 309, in Dade City. Registration is required by Oct. 17. Go to SmartStartPasco.com to register.

Larkin & Larkin Title Services open house
Larkin & Larkin Title Services will host an open house on Oct. 25 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at their office in The Larkin Building, 14130 Seventh St., in Dade City. Join them for Lite Bites, Libations & Conversations.

Business Digest 09/26/2018

September 26, 2018 By B.C. Manion

(Courtesy of Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office)

Pasco Tax Collector adds customer advocate
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano has added a customer advocate to the agency’s staff.

Samantha Bisconti, formerly a customer service representative for the agency, recently took over the duties for this new position. The position was created because of the myriad issues that impact customers of the tax collector’s office that go beyond the general scope of motor vehicles, property taxes and related issues, according to a news release from Fasano’s office.

“Samantha has already demonstrated a strong grasp of the importance of assisting people, helping them find answers to their problems, and generally helping those who may not know where else to turn,” Fasano says, in the release. “Her experience working on the front-line of our office, as well as her understanding of issues important to Pasco residents, illustrates what an asset she is and will continue to be to this agency and to the customers we serve.”

If you need assistance with any issues that Bisconti may be able to help you with, call her at (727) 847-8165, ext. 2781.

North Tampa Bay Chamber nominations
Nominations are being accepted for the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce’s annual Excellence in Business awards.

Winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, according to a news release from the chamber.

Here are the categories:

Excellence in Business, small business (up to 49 employees): These businesses and the people who provide leadership for them have a profound effect on the business environment and economy of North Tampa Bay.
Excellence in Business, large business (50 employees or more): These businesses and the people who provide leadership for them have a profound effect on the business environment and economy of North Tampa Bay.
Volunteer of the year: Recognizing a community leader who donates his or her time to chamber activities and events.
Business leader of the year: Must be the founder, owner, CEO or president who best exemplifies generously giving time, money, staff and/or facilities for community benefit.
New business of the year: This award recognizes a local company that has been in business for fewer than three years, which is financially viable and potentially scalable.
Dorothy Mitchell Legacy Award: Lifetime achievement award given to a community leader who has had a lasting positive impact on our community.

Nominations are due by Oct. 12. Finalists will be announced the week of Oct. 29.

The awards ceremony will be on the evening of Nov. 8, from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel.

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

Grow Financial ribbon cutting
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce is scheduled to have a ribbon cutting on Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., at Grow Financial, at 17315 Dona Michelle Drive in Tampa.

Hispanic Heritage celebration
Viva North Tampa Bay is celebrating Hispanic Heritage on Oct. 9 from noon to 2 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando Porter Campus. The cost is $25. A panel discussion is planned featuring Jay Rasario, owner of Wesley Chapel Nissan; Janet Cruz, of the Florida House of Representatives; Roberto Seaz, the owner/principal, Design & Construction Innovations; and Margarita Romo, executive director, Farmworkers Self-Help Inc.

North Tampa Bay economic briefing
The North Tampa Bay Chamber’s Oct. 25 economic briefing will feature Bill Cronin, president/CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council. The luncheon is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Hunter’s Green Golf & Country Club, 18101 Longwater Run Drive. Cost is $15.

Need help launching your business?

The Pasco Enterprise Network (PEN) is a countywide partnership to help small and growing businesses find the guidance, assistance and resources they need to grow and prosper. No matter what challenges your business is facing, the network connects small business owners and entrepreneurs to professionals who can offer the help they need to grow, including consulting, education and technical assistance in a variety of areas and subjects.

To find out more, visit PascoEnterprise.com/pen-partners.

Business Digest 09/19/2018

September 19, 2018 By B.C. Manion

(Courtesy of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce)

Cornerstone receives ‘Heart of Pasco’ award
The Community Affairs Committee of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce presented the ‘Heart of Pasco’ Award to Cornerstone Pros — Air Conditioning, Plumbing & Electrical. The awards was given on the morning of Sept. 12 at the company’s business, at 4946 in Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O Lakes. Cornerstone Pros provides air conditioning and heating installation, HVAC repairs, plumbing, indoor air quality and other services in Pasco, Hillsborough, Hernando and Pinellas counties. From left: Kathy Balthazard, Judi Fisher, Dana Spears and Sandy Graves.

Realtor groups merge
The Pinellas Realtor Organization and Central Pasco Association of Realtors have merged to form a single organization representing nearly 9,000 area Realtors and 700 affiliate business partners, according a news release.

“We are very happy that our members saw the benefits of this merger. This new endeavor will strengthen the Realtor brand in this area,” Paul Hendriks, chairman of the board at the Pinellas Realtor Organization said, in a news release.

Lars Kier, president of the Central Pasco Association of Realtors said, “The decision to bring this merger forward to a vote by the members was not taken lightly.”

Bexley Elementary seeks business sponsors
There’s still time to become a 2018-2019 business sponsor for Bexley Elementary School, in Land O’ Lakes.

To find out more about the different levels of sponsorship, reach out to Kathy Hrach, with the Bexley Elementary PTO, through email at or by calling (813) 382-3138.

East Pasco Networking Group
Bonnie Gibson, of the American Cancer Society/Relay For Life, is scheduled to be the speaker at the Sept. 25 breakfast meeting of the East Pasco Networking Group. The group meets at IHOP, at 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City at 7:30 a.m. For more information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or , or call Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1149.

Women-n-Charge
Women-n-Charge meets at 11:30 a.m., on the first Friday of each month, at Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., Land O’ Lakes. The cost is $15 for members and $18 for guests who RSVP by Monday prior to the meeting. After that, the cost is $20 for members and $23 for guests. For information, call (813) 600-9848.

Joe and Son’s Olive Oils opens second location
Joe and Son’s Olive Oils is coming to North Tampa this fall, with a planned location at 11618 N. Dale Mabry Highway, according to a company news release.

The family owned store, deeply rooted in Tampa, plans to open its second location in late fall of this year.

The store offers more than 50 varieties of premium imported extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. All of the oils and vinegars are available for complimentary tasting, and all bottles are poured on site.

For more information, visit JoeAndSonsOliveOils.com.

Grow Financial ribbon cutting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce is scheduled to have a ribbon cutting on Oct. 3 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., at Grow Financial, at 17315 Dona Michelle Drive in Tampa.

Hispanic Heritage celebration
Viva North Tampa Bay is celebrating Hispanic Heritage on Oct. 9 a.m. from noon to 2 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando Porter Campus. The cost is $25. A panel discussion is planned, featuring Jay Rasrio, owner of Wesley Chapel Nissan; Janet Cruz, of the Florida House of Representatives; Roberto Seaz, the owner/principal, Design & Construction Innovations; and Margarita Romo, executive director, Farmworkers Self-Help Inc.

Downtown Avalon Park West groundbreaking
The development and management team from Avalon Park West will kickstart the beginning of the community’s downtown by answering questions regarding its first commercial building, charter school and future commercial and mixed-use space in the downtown area. The event will be Oct. 11 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Avalon Park West is at 33613 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel.

Business Digest 09/12/2018

September 12, 2018 By B.C. Manion

PulteGroup’s West Florida division recently helped put together meals to feed 2,700 people in Tampa Bay, by partnering with Feeding Tampa Bay to help ease the community’s hunger problem. (Courtesy of PulteGroup)

Pulte helps feed hungry
PulteGroup’s West Florida division has partnered with Feeding Tampa Bay to help ease the hunger problem in the community. Recently, 30 members of the Pulte team spent several hours putting together enough meals to feed 2,700 people from the Tampa Bay area, according to a news release.

“It has always been a top priority for us to give back to the community in which we live and work,” Sean Strickler, president of Pulte’s West Florida division, said in the release. “We support the mission of Feeding Tampa Bay and look forward to a continued partnership that helps support those in our community who are in need.”

The Pulte team created food packages that included nonperishable items like oatmeal, tuna, and pasta, plus canned fruits and vegetables.

Each year, Pulte’s West Florida division participates in multiple charitable activities. In 2017, they received the Corporate Philanthropy Award from the Tampa Bay Business Journal, which honors companies that have committed unwavering support to nonprofit organizations by donating time, energy and resources.

Central Pasco Chamber seeks to help schools
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce has been helping schools through its Student of the Month program for more than 20 years. The chamber also helps schools in other ways. If you’d like your business to get involved, call Rocky Contreras at (813) 787-1225.

K & K Discount Tires adds U-Haul products
K & K Discount Tires at 15051 U.S. 301 is now offering U-Haul products and services, including trucks, trailers, towing equipment, moving supplies and in-store pickup for boxes, according to a news release from U-Haul.

Normal business hours are Monday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and, Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

To reserve a U-Haul products at this dealer, call (352) 521-4928.

Volunteers needed
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce is seeking volunteers to help the residents of Knight Homes, a part of the Sunrise Community Homes.

The chamber is sponsoring a day of community service to help residents by painting and doing basic landscaping.

The event will be on Sept. 15 at 9 a.m., at 7809 N. Glen Ave., in Tampa.

Cash, checks, gift cards, movie tickets and event tickets also are needed.

Drop-off sites for donations will be at Uncle Maddios, 3949 Van Dyke Road in Lutz; U.S. Renal, 3421 N. Lakeview Drive in Tampa; and Subway, 13032 Race Track Road in Tampa.

This also would be an opportunity for children who need to fulfill community service hours for school.

Donations being sought include bed linens for twin- and full-size beds; washcloths, hand and bath towels; toiletries for travel or full size; and drapes for eight bedrooms.

For information, email Jody Fowler at .

Coffee social
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its Monthly Coffee Social on Sept. 18 at 8 a.m., at Buttermilk Provisions, 2653 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

This is a “no agenda” event with time for social networking.

For information, call Grace Martin at (813) 994-8534, or visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

Dade City Chamber
Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles will be the guest speaker at The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce’s Sept. 18 breakfast. Biles and his staff will outline the “Go Bond” initiative that will be on the November ballot, with proceeds from the bonds to pay for various county projects.

The meeting begins with networking at 7 a.m., followed by the breakfast and program at 7:30 a.m.

The meeting will be at Florida Hospital Dade City, in Medical Plaza 1, classroom 108, at 13100 Fort King Road in Dade City.

Business Digest 09/05/2018

September 5, 2018 By B.C. Manion

East Pasco Networking Group
The next East Pasco Networking Group (EPNG) meeting is set for Sept. 11 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, at 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City.

Dr. Randall Stovall, provost dean emeritus and president of The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce, will be the guest speaker.

For more information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or , or call Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1149.

General membership luncheon
The Center Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its general membership meeting Sept. 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hilton Garden Tampa Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Parkway, off State Road 54, in Lutz.

Guest speaker will be Lourdes Bahr, of the U.S. Department of Labor.

The cost is $20 for members only, if RSVP is by Thursday before the meeting. Afterward, the cost is $25 for members and non-members.

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

Heart of Pasco Award
Cornerstone Heating and Air, at 4946 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., will receive the Heart of Pasco Award from the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at a presentation on Sept. 12 at 8:30 a.m.

The presentation will be made at the company’s business, and all are welcome to attend.

The award is being given as a gesture of appreciation for what Cornerstone does to promote the community and businesses in Central Pasco.

Branding and credibility seminar
Pasco Hernando SCORE is presenting a free seminar on “Branding and Credibility through Digital Marketing” on Sept. 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City.

To register or to get more information, visit PascoHernando.score.org, and click on the local workshops tab, or call the SCORE office at (727) 842-4638.

Monthly membership luncheon
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly membership luncheon Sept. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Fox Hollow Golf Club, 10050 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity.

The cost is $20, but please RSVP.

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

North Tampa luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have its September Momentum Thursday on Sept. 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Atria Lutz, at 414 E. Chapman Road in Lutz.

Guest speaker is Carole Sanek, owner of Butterfly Boom Productions. She is a ghost writer, social media content creator and podcaster.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card at NorthTampaChamber.com or by email to by 5 p.m., on the Wednesday before the meeting, at the discounted rate of $15 (whether you eat or not).

After that date, the cost is $20 (whether you eat or not), payable at the door by cash, check or credit card.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 563-0180.

Business seminar
SCORE will host a free seminar on “Game Changing Tactics of Small Businesses” on Sept. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Residence Inn Marriot, 2102 Northpointe Parkway, off State Road 54, in Lutz.

The seminar is designed to enhance and grow existing small businesses, and learn from experienced executives and entrepreneurs who have built successful companies.

Seating is limited. Registration deadline is Sept. 7.

A continental breakfast will be provided.

For information, contact PascoHernando.score.org.

Volunteers needed
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce is seeking volunteers to help the residents of Knight Homes, a part of the Sunrise Community Homes.

The chamber is sponsoring a day of community service to help residents by painting and doing basic landscaping.

The event will be on Sept. 15 at 9 a.m., at 7809 N. Glen Ave., in Tampa.

Cash, checks, gift cards, movie tickets and event tickets also are needed.

Drop-off sites for donations will be at Uncle Maddios, 3949 Van Dyke Road in Lutz; U.S. Renal, 3421 N. Lakeview Drive in Tampa; and Subway, 13032 Race Track Road in Tampa.

This also would be an opportunity for children who need to fulfill community service hours for school.

Donations being sought include bed linens for twin- and full-size beds; washcloths, hand and bath towels; toiletries for travel or full size; and drapes for eight bedrooms.

For information, email Jody Fowler at .

Coffee social
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its Monthly Coffee Social on Sept. 18 at 8 a.m., at Buttermilk Provisions, 2653 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

This is a “no agenda” event with time for social networking.

For information, call Grace Martin at (813) 994-8534, or visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

Women-n-Charge
Women-n-Charge meets at 11:30 a.m., on the first Friday of each month, at Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., Land O’ Lakes.

The cost is $15 for members and $18 for guests who RSVP by Monday prior to the meeting. After that, the cost is $20 for members and $23 for guests.

For information, call (813) 600-9848.

Awards to be presented this week
Awards will be presented on Sept. 6 during the Pasco Economic Development Council’s 32nd Annual Awards and Trade Show at Saddlebrook Resort and Spa, 5700 Saddlebrook Way in Wesley Chapel.

Festivities begin with a reception at 5 p.m., followed by the award announcements from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. A dinner and trade show, with about 50 exhibitors from Pasco County businesses, will be featured, too.

Six businesses, selected from the finalists, will be honored as award winners at the annual celebration.

All nominees were scored based on company growth, leadership in current business issues, and corporate citizenship.

According to a news release from the economic development council, the finalists “excelled in all of those categories.”

The finalists are:

A.L. Saland Insurance Solutions
Academy at the Lakes Inc.
DC Johnson & Associates
Habitat for Humanity of East & Central Pasco County
Hernandez Accounting Solutions Inc.
Medical Center of Trinity
Merrell Bros., Inc.
Mettler Toledo
Millian-Aire Enterprises Corp.
Morton Plant North Bay Hospital
Pharmaworks Inc.
San Antonio Lumber Co.
Spark Technology Solutions
Tampa Premium Outlets LLC
Ultimate 3D Printing Store

Need help launching your business?
The Pasco Enterprise Network (PEN) is a county-wide partnership to help small and growing businesses find the guidance, assistance and resources they need to grow and prosper. No matter what challenges your business is facing, the network connects small business owners and entrepreneurs to professionals who can offer the help they need to grow, including; consulting, education, and technical assistance in a variety of areas and subjects.

To find out more, visit PascoEnterprise.com/pen-partners.

Business Digest 08/29/2018

August 29, 2018 By B.C. Manion

Best/work retirement places
Ready to retire?

Do go to Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale or Miami.

Stay away from Newark, New Jersey.

According to a survey from WalletHub, Florida cities are good retirement choices in 2018.

Orlando ranked No. 1 on a survey of the best and worst places in the country to retire.

Tampa came in third, with Fort Lauderdale claiming fifth and Miami placing seventh.

Newark came in at the very bottom spot — as the worst place to retire. There were 182 cities included in the survey.

WalletHub is a personal/financial website. For the survey, 46 key measures were reviewed, including affordability, quality of life, health care and availability of recreational activities.

Cost of living, retired taxpayer-friendliness and the percentage of population aged 65 and older also were considered.

New shops at Cypress Creek
Pearle Vision, Sweetea Cafe and Verizon are new retail coming to Cypress Creek Town Center, according to Pasco County permit records.

Other businesses under construction include Burlington, a 20,000-square-foot HomeGoods, Five Below, and Blaze Pizza.

Guest speaker will be Lourdes Bahr, of the U.S. Department of Labor.

The cost is $20 for members only, if RSVP is by Thursday before the meeting. Afterward, the cost is $25 for members and non-members.

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

The cost is $20, but please RSVP.

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

North Tampa luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have its September Momentum Thursday on Sept. 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Atria Lutz, at 414 E. Chapman Road in Lutz.

Guest speaker is Carole Sanek, owner of Butterfly Boom Productions. She is a ghost writer, social media content creator and podcaster.

After that date, the cost is $20 (whether you eat or not), payable at the door by cash, check or credit card.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 563-0180.

The seminar is designed to enhance and grow existing small businesses. Learn from experienced executives and entrepreneurs who have built successful companies.

Seating is limited.

Registration deadline is Sept. 7.

Continental breakfast will be provided.

For information, contact PascoHernando.score.org.

Volunteers needed
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce is seeking volunteers to help the residents of Knight Homes, a part of the Sunrise Community Homes.

The chamber is sponsoring a day of community service to help residents by painting and doing basic landscaping.

The event will be on Sept. 15 at 9 a.m., at 7809 N. Glen Ave., in Tampa.

Cash, checks, gift cards, movie tickets and event tickets also are needed.

Drop-off sites for donations will be at Uncle Maddios, 3949 Van Dyke Road in Lutz; U.S. Renal, 3421 N. Lakeview Drive in Tampa; and Subway, 13032 Race Track Road in Tampa.

This also would be an opportunity for children who need to fulfill community service hours for school.

Donations being sought include bed linens for twin and full size beds; washcloths, hand and bath towels; toiletries for travel or full size; and drapes for eight bedrooms.

For information, email Jody Fowler at .

Coffee social
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its Monthly Coffee Social on September 18 at 8 a.m., at Buttermilk Provisions, 2653 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

This is a “no agenda” event with time for social networking.

For information, call Grace Martin at (813) 994-8534, or visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

Business Digest 08/22/2018

August 22, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Hyatt Place Hotel is open for guests at Cypress Creek Town Center, on Sierra Center Boulevard. (B.C. Manion)

Hyatt Place Hotel opens
Workers are putting finishing touches on the Hyatt Place Hotel and Convention Center at Cypress Creek Town Center, off State Road 54.

But, the 130-room hotel, at 26000 Sierra Center Blvd., is open for guests. It is near the Interstate 75 interchange and across from Tampa Premium Outlets.

It is part of the growing activity at the town center, which includes restaurants and shops.

Current retail includes Bahama Breeze Island Grill, Chuy’s Tex-Mex, Mellow Mushroom, Men’s Warehouse and Aspen Dental.

Future retail includes Burlington, Earth Fare and Five Below.

Volunteers needed
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce is seeking volunteers to help the residents of Knight Homes, a part of the Sunrise Community Homes.

The chamber is sponsoring a day of community service to help residents by painting and doing basic landscaping.

The event will be Sept. 15 at 9 a.m., at 7809 N. Glen Ave., in Tampa.

Cash, checks, gift cards, movie tickets and event tickets also are needed.

Drop-off sites for donations will be at Uncle Maddios, 3949 Van Dyke Road in Lutz; U.S. Renal Care, 3421 N. Lakeview Drive in Tampa; and Subway, 13032 Race Track Road in Tampa.

This also is an opportunity for children who need to fulfill community service hours for school.

Donations being sought include bed linens for twin and full-size beds; washcloths, hand and bath towels; toiletries for travel or full size; and drapes for eight bedrooms.

For information, email Jody Fowler at .

Infinity Hair Salon ribbon cutting
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host the ribbon cutting for Infinity Hair Salon on Aug. 25 from 11:30 a.m. to noon, at 6536 Stadium Drive, Suite M, in Zephyrhills.

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

East Pasco networking
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet Aug. 28 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City.

Guest speaker will be Brent Nye, of Nye Commercial Advisors Inc.

For information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or , or Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1140 or .

Economic development briefing
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly economic briefing lunch Aug. 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Hunter’s Green Country Club, 18101 Longwater Run in Tampa.

The cost is $15 for members and $20 for non-members.

For information, call (813) 994-8534, or email Grace Martin at .

Final Friday
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have a “Final Friday” mixer Aug. 31 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Chuy’s Tex-Mex restaurant, 25750 Sierra Center Blvd., at Cypress Creek Town Center in Lutz.

There will be networking, discounted prices and happy hour specials.

The mixer is open to members and guests, who can attend two chamber events without joining the chamber.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 994-8534, or email Grace Martin at .

Women helping women
Boss Babes Network group will host a free mixer for women professionals and entrepreneurs Sept. 4 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Two Sisters DIY Workshop, 2020 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite 4, in Lutz.

This is a monthly event to help Boss Babes make more connections and referrals. Bring business cards. There will be drawings, food, beverages and fun.

Each attendee is asked to bring a product, gift card or small gift basket for the drawings, and to show off your business.

Compiled by Kathy Steele

Business Digest 08/15/2018

August 15, 2018 By Kathy Steele

Future site of O’Reilly Auto Parts in Land O’ Lakes (Kathy Steele)

O’ Reilly auto store
O’ Reilly Auto Parts is coming to Land O’ Lakes.

Construction is underway at 3600 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

County records indicate that permits have been issued for a building of about 7,200 square feet.

This will be the auto parts store’s first location in Land O’ Lakes. O’ Reilly has existing stores in Dade City and Zephyrhills.

The auto parts chain began in 1957 with a single store in Springfield, Missouri, which remains the company’s headquarters.

According to the company website, the chain currently has more than 5,100 stores in 47 states.

Breaking ground at Del Webb Bexley
Pulte Group plans to break ground in August on six model homes at Del Webb Bexley, according to a news release from Pulte Group.

The 850-home, age-restricted community is within the Bexley by Newland Communities master-planned neighborhood, off State Road 54, in Land O’ Lakes.

The Del Webb homes are designed for pre-retirement and retiring baby boomers.

Del Webb communities target the age 55 and older population.

The Bexley project is the first Del Webb community to be built from the ground up in the Tampa Bay area since 1960.

Home designs include the one-story, two-bedroom “Steel Creek” model; the two-story, four-bedroom, four-bath “Pinnacle Grand”; and Stonewater.

The six model homes are among 17 designs offered at Del Webb Bexley, which is being developed on about 490 acres with Bexley.

The model homes are expected to be completed, and open to buyers by January.

Del Webb Bexley residents can enjoy a lakefront club and café.

They have the option to purchase additional access to Bexley’s all-ages amenities, including 10 miles of multi-use Avid trails; parks and play areas; soccer field; dog parks; two resort-style pools; bike park; and a schedule of social events.

For information, visit DelWebb.com/bexley.

Lutz rental costs rank high
Lutz landed in seventh spot among the most expensive cities for a one-bedroom rental in the Tampa Bay area in July, according to a report from Zumper.

The median cost for a one-bedroom in Lutz in July was $1,060, about 5 percent more than in June. That put Lutz in a tie with Brandon.

Two-bedroom rentals in Lutz rose 1.6 percent, month to month, at a median cost of $1,290 in July.

New Port Richey was the most affordable, with median rents at $720 in July. Hudson was second at $780 a month.

But, New Port Richey also was near the top in fastest growing cities for one-bedroom rentals, up more than 14 percent over July 2017, the report found.

The median rent in Florida in June was $1,185.

For information, visit Zumper.com.

Water quality reports
Pasco County Utilities customers can now view the latest water quality testing results online in the annual 2017 Consumer Confidence Reports (CCR), according to a news release from Pasco County.

Customers can access specific information on their residential area through a direct link provided on their water utilities bill, or by selecting their report at bit.ly/2017pascowaterreport.

Pasco County Utilities routinely monitors drinking water based on federal and state laws.

August is #WaterQualityMonth nationwide.

To join the conversation about how Pasco County Utilities protects drinking water, connect on Twitter@PascoWater.

For information, visit PascoCountyUtilities.com.

Awards banquet
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host “Zephyropoly,” a membership appreciation and community awards banquet, Aug. 23 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at St. Joseph’s Parish Center, 38750 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills.

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

East Pasco networking
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet Aug. 14 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City.

Guest speakers will be Roxxy Geisenheimer, executive director of the Samaritan Project; and, Madonna Wise, a local author and historian.

For information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 872-9491 or , or Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1140 or .

Coffee social
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its Monthly Coffee Social on Aug. 21 at 8 a.m., at Buttermilk Provisions, 2653 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

This is a “no agenda” event with time for social networking.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 994-8534, or visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

Chamber mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a mixer Aug. 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Asturia, 14575 Promenade Parkway in Odessa.

For information, contact the chamber at (813) 909-2722 or .

Women-n-Charge
Join Women-n-Charge Sept. 7 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

Guest speaker will be Brenda Alloco, a client-focused mentor, writer, and time management consultant.

The cost is $15 for members and $18 for guests who RSVP by Monday prior to the meeting.

Afterward, the cost is $20 for members and $23 for guests.

Business Digest 08/08/2018

August 8, 2018 By Kathy Steele

Memory care at The Edwinola
The Edwinola in Dade City recently announced the opening of its “Along the Journey” memory care program.

The Edwinola is a historical icon and a senior assisted living facility in Dade City. (File)

The program is designed for residents with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other memory impairments.

The Edwinola is a historical icon in Dade City that began as a hotel in the early 1900s. Over the years, it served as a private residence, a university and a restaurant. It was restored and reopened in 2017 as a senior assisted living facility.

The Edwinola’s newest program provides a secure, designated area, and staff members who provide assistance to memory care residents.

Services include state-of-the-art comprehensive plans; individualized care and service plans; designated social, therapeutic and physical activities; large private rooms, with baths; weekly housekeeping and laundry; caregivers available 24 hours a day; medication ordering and management; coordination and scheduling of medical appointments; and all utilities and cable television included.

For information, call Stephanie Davis at (352) 567-6500.

National housing report
Sales prices for homes are at a record high while the number of homes available is at a record low, according to the June 2018 National Housing Report from RE/MAX.

Also, in June, home sales were 5.5 percent lower than homes sales in June 2017, the report found.

The median sales price paid by homebuyers nationally in June was about $258,500. That’s an increase from June 2017 from nearly $246,000.

The average number of days a house was on the market (from listing to contract) dropped to 42 days in June 2018, down from 47 days in 2017.

The inventory of homes for sale dipped slightly in June to 2.7-month supply, down from 2.8 in June 2018.

Augusta (Maine) and Salt Lake City were among cities with the lowest inventory of homes for sale, with a 1.3-month supply and 1.4-month supply, respectively. Omaha, Nebraska, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania increased the number of home sales by 6.6 percent and 2.5 percent, respectively.

And, Boise, Idaho, and Seattle, Washington had the highest sales price increases, with a 17.3 percent and 17 percent increase, respectively.

The report was based on Multiple Listing Services data from 53 metropolitan areas in the country.

Monthly membership luncheon
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly membership luncheon Aug. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Fox Hollow Golf Club, 10050 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity.

Guest speaker is U.S. Rep. Gus Bilarakis.

The cost is $20, but please RSVP.

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

North Tampa luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have its August 2018 Momentum Thursday on Aug. 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Atria Lutz, at 414 E. Chapman Road in Lutz.

Guest speaker is Kim Northup Wright, executive director of Sunrise Community Inc., of Tampa Bay.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card at NorthTampaChamber.com or by email to by 5 p.m. Aug. 8, at the discounted rate of $15 (whether you eat or not).

After that date, the cost is $20 (whether you eat or not), payable at the door by cash, check or credit card.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 563-0180.

General membership meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its general membership meeting Aug. 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Parkway, at Northpointe Village.

U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis will be guest speaker.

The cost is $20 for members only, if RSVP is by Aug. 9. Afterward, the cost is $25 for members and non-members.

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

Smart Business Series
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly “Small Business Series” Aug. 14 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Overnight Success Studios, 17743 Hunting Bow Circle, Lutz.

Guest speaker is Dineen Wasylik of DPW Legal.

The cost is $20. Please RSVP and prepay.

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

Awards banquet
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host “Zephyropoly,” a membership appreciation and community awards banquet Aug. 23 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at St. Joseph’s Parish Center, 38750 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills.

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

Free business seminar
SCORE will host a free business seminar, “Game Changing Tactics for Small Businesses,” Sept. 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Residence Marriott, 2102 Northpoint Parkway in Lutz.

Featured guests will include experienced executives and entrepreneurs who have built successful companies. They are Sheila Neisler, owner of Catalyst, a marketing company; Jim Hammond, former chief executive officer in sales, marketing and operations; Jack Grise, former executive and vice president in sales, marketing, manufacturing and high-tech companies; Lora Shipman, owner of LoraShipman.com, a social media consulting company; and Greta Kishbaugh, professor at St. Petersburg College and president of Biz Dynamics Group.

A continental breakfast will be provided.

Seating is limited, so registration by Sept. 7 is required.

For information and to register, visit PascoHernando.score.org.

Chamber mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a mixer on August 22 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Asturia, 14575 Promenade Parkway in Odessa.

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