Business Digest

Training helps landscaping pros

DADE CITY – The UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service is offering Green Industry Best Management Practices (GI-BMP) Training designed for landscaping professionals who apply fertilizers commercially.

The event takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. July 22 at UF/IFAS Extension Pasco County, 36702 County Road 52, Dade City. Advance registration is required at mypas.co/PascoGIBMPJul25.  

The training costs $30 for green industry professionals and $20 for Pasco County Government, school board and other municipal employees. All participants must have a government-issued photo ID and a pre-paid ticket for admission. Lunch will not be provided.

 

MarineMax supports townhome build

OLDSMAR – MarineMax celebrated the dedication of its eighth and ninth homes in partnership with Habitat for Humanity, supporting two families as they worked toward homeownership.

Each year, employees from across the company trade their desks for tool belts, working side by side with Habitat families to frame, paint and build homes from the ground up.

“Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity is one of the most meaningful things we do,” said Beth Garland, senior vice president of people strategy at MarineMax. “Getting to know the families, rolling up our sleeves and building something together – it’s incredibly rewarding for all of us.”

This year’s homeowners are a preschool director with three daughters as well as a dialysis technician and mother of eight. 

 

East Pasco events

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

• Members mingle during the Business Breakfast from 7 to 8:30 a.m. July 10 at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills. Admission costs $15. Register in advance. 
• Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. July 11 at the chamber’s Zephyrhills location, 38550 5th Ave., or 8 to 9 a.m. July 15 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. Register in advance. 

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

 

Radio host signs off  

TAMPA – Classical radio host Russell Gant has retired from WUSF and WSMR public radio, capping a career in broadcasting that began 42 years ago when he was a University of South Florida music student who worked in the early years of public radio in Tampa Bay. 

The station celebrated Gant’s career with a special broadcast.

“Perhaps no voice on our airwaves is more closely tied to the origin and the heart of WUSF and WSMR than Russell Gant,” WUSF General Manager JoAnn Urofsky said. “Russell is and has been a leading light in classical music throughout our region, beloved both here at the station and among listeners across our region.”

Among pieces that Gant helped select for his final day on the air were Gabriele Faure’s “Pavane Op. 50,” Gustav Holst’s “Planets: Jupiter Op. 32,” Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake Suite Op. 20,” Giacomo Puccini’s “Turandot: Nessun Dorma” and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Serenade No. 10 for Winds in B-Flat.”

“Time for me to ride off in the sunset,” Gant told listeners. “Thank you for all these years. It’s been an honor and privilege to share this music with you … and may I say, farewell my friends.”

 

Building services gets nod

PASCO COUNTY –  Pasco’s Building Construction Services Department has earned accreditation from the International Accreditation Service. 

Pasco is the only county in its population range (500K – 1M) to receive this distinction.

“This prestigious honor reflects the department’s unwavering dedication to our community,” Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey said. 

International Accreditation Service accreditation places Pasco in a group of about 30 building departments nationwide that operate with the highest standards, including permitting, plan reviews, inspections and code enforcement.

An independent authority performed on-site assessments and reviews of competence and quality management industry standards. 

On the web: mypas.co/BuildingConstruction

 

Workforce sees expansion

TALLAHASSEE – FloridaCommerce announced June 20 that Florida’s total private sector employment increased by 22,900 (+0.3%) jobs from the previous month. Florida’s manufacturing sector gained 1,100 jobs in May 2025.

Florida’s private sector job growth rate has exceeded the national rate for 48 of the last 50 months since April 2021. The industry that gained the most jobs in May 2025 was the professional and business services sector, adding 7,100 jobs; followed by trade, transportation and utilities, adding 4,800 jobs; education and health services, adding 4,600 jobs; and leisure and hospitality, adding 4,100 jobs.

 

Career Source offers job-seekers help with search

HOLIDAY – Career Source offers assistance with employment searches, resume writing, interviewing preparation, EmployFlorida assistance and more at Centennial Park Library. 

Upcoming sessions include 10 a.m. to noon Tuesdays, July 8 and 15, as well as Thursdays, July 10 and 17, at the library, located at 5740 Moog Road, Holiday.

Call the library at 727-834-3204 for details.

 

East Pasco events

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

• Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. July 8 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. Register in advance. 
• Members meet up for networking at the Business Breakfast from 7 to 8:30 a.m. July 10 at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills. Entry costs $15. Register in advance. 

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

 

Quick Hits

• North Tampa Bay Chamber chats with Will Atkins, founder of  Cinn-Credible Cinnamon Packets, during the latest “Chamber Chatter” podcast.
• AAA projects 4.6 million Floridians will travel domestically during the Independence Day holiday period, including 4 million by auto, 329,762 by air and 203,629 by other modes like buses, trains or cruises.

Pasco incentivizes tourism

PASCO COUNTY – Florida’s Sports Coast, the destination management organization for Pasco County, is accepting applications for the 2025-26 Marketing Matching Sponsorship Program.  

Designed to spotlight artistic, cultural and unique experiences beyond the world of sports, this program offers an opportunity to bring these events and attractions to life.  

Events like these have the potential to attract visitors and the program provides up to $10,000 to expand the marketing reach of these events to audiences outside the Tampa Bay area.

For 2025-26 cycle, there are two additional funding incentives:

• Long-distance Promotions Incentive: Providing up to $2,000.
• Room Night Generation Incentive: Offering up to $3,000.

Visit: mypas.co/FloridasSportsCoastMMSP26 to learn more about the program.

 

Food truck lauds Brooklyn

LAND O’ LAKES – The Bergen Food Truck Florida celebrated its grand opening May 30 to June 1 at That Place Down The Street.

The seafood concept dates back to the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, when founder Ty Brown opened a restaurant with Caribbean-inspired flavors on Bergen Street in Brooklyn, New York. 

“I’m thrilled to bring a true sense of community and connection to Land O’Lakes through The Bergen Food Truck,” Brown saad. “In a place where people often stay indoors, we’re creating a welcoming space that encourages neighbors to come together, enjoy great food, and build lasting friendships.”

That Place Down The Street is located at 10509 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Call 347-264 4069 for details. 

 

Hooters reopens location

PORT RICHEY – The Port Richey Hooters location has reopened after being closed for nine months after four feet of water entered the building during Hurricane Helene. 

The entire building has been completely remodeled and renovated with all new equipment and furniture. The kitchen has also been redesigned to increase throughput and reduce ticket times.

Hooters of Port Richey is located at 5336 Treadway Drive.  The Port Richey Hooters location opened on the waterfront in 1988.  It was the first Hooters restaurant to open in Pasco County.  

Additional locations in the county include the Odessa Hooters and Wesley Chapel Hooters with an anticipated opening in the fall. HMC Hospitality Group also has plans to open a location in The Villages in July.  

 

Baker joins angus group

BRANDON – Khloe Baker, of Brandon, is a new junior member of the American Angus Association, reports Mark McCully, CEO of the national organization with headquarters in Saint Joseph, Missouri.

Junior members of the association are eligible to register cattle in the American Angus Association, participate in programs conducted by the National Junior Angus Association and take part in association-sponsored shows and other national and regional events.

The American Angus Association has more than 21,000 active adult and junior members. 

On the web: NJAA.info

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Coffee Social and ribbon cutting. 

• Members network during a Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. June 18 at Bubba’s 33, 26340 Silver maple Pkwy., Wesley Chapel.  
• Members celebrate the grand opening of Deep Roots Dental & Facial Aesthetics with a ribbon cutting from 4 to 6 p.m. June 25 at 3013 Allegra Way, Lutz. The ribbon cutting starts at 4:30 p.m.

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Trinity Brochure Exchange, Women in Business programming and other networking opportunities.

• The Professional Women in Business group meets for networking from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 18 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance.
• Members exchange company literature during Trinity Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 19 at Seven Springs Golf and Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., Trinity. Register in advance. 
• Members hold a ribbon cutting from 4 to 7 p.m. June 24 at Wraps & Kabobs, 1420 Seven Springs Blvd., New Port Richey. Register in advance. 

ª Members celebrate the grand opening of HotWorx with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 25 at 7215 FL-54, New Port Richey. The company is a 24-hour infrared fitness studio. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will host a Core Connections and Coffee & Networking events.

• The chamber offers networking and member orientation during Core Connections from 8 to 9 a.m. June 19 at the Zephyrhills Office, 38550 5th Ave., Zephyrhills. Register in advance. 
• Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. June 20 at the chamber’s Zephyrhills location, 38550 5th Ave., or 8 to 9 a.m. June 24 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. Register in advance. 

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

 

Quick Hits

• EXIT Elite Realty welcomed Michele Alexander and Rahmat Barkat to its team of real estate professionals. The firm is located at 13911 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Suite #201 in Tampa. 
• Stephanie Li Causi, Dan Soares and Kimberly Blanco have joined Weichert, Realtors – Exclusive Properties at 11734 N Dale Mabry Hwy. in Tampa.

Hooters dedicates ninth Habitat for Humanity home

TARPON SPRING – Tampa Bay-area Hooters employees joined Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside on May 29 to dedicate a new home for the Seville Family. 

Hooters volunteers Falicity Ozuna, Skylar Daniel, Sunita Persaud and Lesley Price presented the keys, a hammer and a Bible during the ceremony. 

This marks the ninth Habitat home sponsored by the Original Hooters and HMC Hospitality Group, which has donated over $875,000 and 2,500 volunteer hours since 2016. 

z“It’s been incredible to see the house go from just wood and nails to full walls,” Ozuna said. “Volunteering on this build has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

 

Hispanic chamber celebrates 25 years

WELLINGTON – The Florida State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce celebrates 25 years of advocacy, mentorship and economic empowerment. 

The chamber has helped grow Hispanic-owned businesses in Florida from fewer than 150,000 to over 600,000. 

With Hispanic buying power in the U.S. reaching $1.9 trillion, FSHCC emphasizes the importance of continued investment in Hispanic businesses as a cornerstone of Florida’s economic future.

On the web: fshcc.com

 

SBA district makes $2.5B in small business loans

MIAMI – The SBA South Florida District Office closed fiscal year 2024 with 4,871 loans totaling over $2.5 billion, making it the top SBA district in the nation for loan volume and total dollars for the second year in a row. 

The record was achieved through key programs including the 7(a) Loan Guaranty Program, 504 Loan Program, and SBA Microloan Program, in collaboration with regional lending partners.

Top-performing lenders were recognized:

• TD Bank – Top 7(a) Lender (628 loans, $87M).
• Florida Business Development Corporation – Top 504 Lender (233 loans, $224M).
• Ascendus – Top Microlender (46 microloans, $1.6M).
• Wells Fargo – Top Lender to New Small Businesses (196 loans, $12M).
• SouthState Bank – Top Rural Lender (3 loans, $850K).

“These lenders play a critical role in helping small businesses access the capital they need to launch and grow,” said Malcolm Richards, SBA South Florida District Director. 

 

USPS launches Dog Bite Awareness Campaign

CENTRAL FLORIDA – With more than 6,000 dog attacks on postal workers reported last year, the U.S. Postal Service is spotlighting safety during its 2025 National Dog Bite Awareness Campaign. 

This year’s theme,  “Secure Your Dog, Keep Deliveries on Track,” emphasizes responsible pet ownership to help protect mail carriers.

Pet owners are urged to keep dogs secured during delivery hours, avoid accepting mail in their presence and teach children not to retrieve mail directly from carriers. 

Florida ranks eighth among states with the most dog bites/incidents at 210. Florida has two cities in the top 38: Miami (34th with 17 bites) and St. Petersburg (36th with 15 bites).

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Coffee Social. 

• Members network during a Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. June 18 at Bubba’s 33, 26340 Silver Maple Pkwy., Wesley Chapel.  

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange, Chamber on Tap After Hours, Membership Breakfast and other networking opportunities.

• Members trade company literature during the Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 12 at SpringHill Suites, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members pay $14 for food. Others pay $10 for registration and $14 for food. Register in advance. 
• Members network during a Chamber on Tap After Hours from 4 to 6 p.m. June 12 at SpringHill Suites, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members get in free. Others pay $25. Register in advance. 
• Pasco County Commissioner Jack Mariano speaks during the chamber’s Membership Breakfast from 8:30 to 10 a.m. June 13 at Heritage Springs Country Club, 11130 Robert Trent Jones Pkwy., Trinity. Members pay $25. Others pay $30. Register in advance. 
• The Young Professionals Group holds a kayaking social from 5 to 7 p.m. June 13 at Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park, 8737 U.S. 19, Port Richey. Single kayak rental costs $20. Register in advance. 
• Ambassadors hold their monthly meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 17 at Baby Hughy’s Pizza and Burgers, 1402 U.S. 19, Holiday. Register in advance. 
• The Professional Women in Business group meets for networking from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 18 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Members pay $12. Others pay $15. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

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

• The chamber hosts a Business Breakfast from 7 to 8:30 a.m. June 12 at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills. Entry costs $15. Register in advance. 
• Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. June 13 at the chamber’s Zephyrhills location, 38550 5th Ave., or 8 to 9 a.m. June 17 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. Register in advance. 

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

 

Quick Hits

• Andy’s Frozen Custard opened a new location last month at 19081 Wingshooter Way in Lutz.

Dade City native chronicles history of Florida citrus

DADE CITY –  Author David E. Sumner tells the story of Florida citrus from the end of the Civil War to present day in his new book, “History Gives Us Hope.”

The Dade City native visited the Florida citrus archives and conducted 53 interviews with 36 citrus growers and industry leaders. 

The book explores the industry’s decline since 1997-98 and promising scientific advances toward disease-resistant trees. 

Sumner will discuss “History Gives Us Hope” as a keynote speaker at the Florida Citrus Industry Annual Conference in Bonita Springs on June 12, the Bartow Rotary Club on June 11 and the Pioneer Florida Museum in Dade City on June 17.

The 326-page book is available at BarnesandNoble.com for $14.95 paperback or $24.95 hardback or at Sumner-Books.Com.

 

Taco Dirty opens new location

RIVERVIEW – Ciccio Restaurant Group has opened Taco Dirty’s second location at 10460 Stelling Drive. 

This marks the brand’s first expansion outside South Tampa. 

Known for its fast-casual, Mexican-inspired fare, Taco Dirty offers customizable bowls, tacos, nachos and other dishes that accomodate various dietary needs. 

The Riverview restaurant is offering a 25% off discount through June 12 to first responders, military, teachers and healthcare workers with valid ID. 

 

Che Vita specializes in Southern Italian flavors

TAMPA – Che Vita offers guests an immersive Southern Italian dining experience inside the Hilton Tampa Downtown. 

Executive Chef James King, a Le Cordon Bleu London graduate and certified Master Pizzaiolo, offers a menu that balances time-honored recipes with modern techniques. 

Guests can expect fresh, seasonal and local ingredients as well as creative presentations of food at Che Vita. 

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host ribbon cuttings and Leading Ladies Network event. 

• Members celebrate Clean Freak with a ribbon cutting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 5 at 31373 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel. The ribbon cutting starts at 11:30 a.m.
• Kathleen Luzier-Bogolea, senior associate director at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, serves as the guest presenter for the Leading Ladies Network event from 9 to 10:30 a.m. June 6 at USF Credit Union, 20610 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa. Admission costs $15. Register in advance. 
• Members celebrate the grand opening of LaserFast Hair Removal from 4 to 6 p.m. June 11 at 1912 Oak Grove Blvd Lutz. The ribbon cutting starts at 4:30 p.m. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a Greater Pasco Medical Roundtable, Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange and Chamber on Tap After Hours.

• BayCare will serve as speaker of the Greater Pasco Medical Roundtable from 8 to 9 a.m. June 5 at Morton Plant North Bay Hospital, 6600 Madison St., New Port Richey. Register in advance. 
• Members trade company literature during the Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 12 at SpringHill Suites, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members pay $14 for food. Others pay $10 for registration and $14 for food. Register in advance. 
• Members network during a Chamber on Tap After Hours from 4 to 6 p.m. June 12 at SpringHill Suites, 16615 Crosspointe Run, Land O’ Lakes. Members get in free. Others pay $25. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will host a Business Breakfast and Coffee & Networking event.

• Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. June 6 at the chamber’s Zephyrhills location, 38550 5th Ave., or 8 to 9 a.m. June 10 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. Register in advance. 
• The chamber hosts a Business Breakfast from 7 to 8:30 a.m. June 12 at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills. Entry costs $15. Register in advance. 

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

 

Quick Hits
• Tami Kent, of Declare No More Foundation, appeared as a guest on the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce’s weekly podcast show, “Chamber Chatter.”

• FloridaCommerce announced May 16 that Florida’s total private sector employment increased by 21,800 (+0.2%) jobs from the previous month. Florida now has a $1.7 trillion economy.
• The U.S. Postal Service unveiled a new collection of Baby Wild Animals stamps. The 10 stylized illustrations include a fox, owl, deer, seal, rabbit, raccoon, bear, skunk, bobcat and chipmunk.

 

 

Pasco EDC wins two awards

PORT CHARLOTTE – Pasco Economic Development Council received two Innovation in Marketing Awards from the Florida Economic Development Council.

The council honored Pasco EDC at its annual conference May 15 in Port Charles. 

The Innovative Partnership Award recognized the Pasco EDC SMARTstart Program and its collaboration with CO.STARTERS, nine nonprofits, United Way and The Vinik Foundation for the CO.STARTERS for Causes inaugural cohort. 

The Organic Marketing Campaign Award recognized the new Pasco Ready Sites 3D Property Videos. The project involved property videos using 3D and drone imaging to highlight location and access, utilities and infrastructure, and scaled renderings of how sites could be utilized by the end user.

“I am delighted to see Pasco EDC’s work recognized at the state level by the Florida Economic Development Council,” President/CEO Bill Cronin said. “Our team works hard to create innovative marketing initiatives and powerful partnerships that further the positive economic growth of Pasco County.”

 

Give input on Downtown Tampa’s future

TAMPA – The Tampa Downtown Partnership is hosting a series of interactive sessions to get feedback on its future. The organization is partnering with small businesses to host the events, and the shops are offering a discount or freebie if you “pop in” and speak your mind.

The “What’s Pop-In?” listening sessions will travel through Downtown Tampa’s seven neighborhoods from May 28 through June 4. At each location, Tampa Downtown Partnership staff will listen to ideas and concerns, track trends, and ask visitors to vote on a question tied to a major topic like growth, transportation, or public parks.

Upcoming sessions include: 

• Grand Central at Kennedy (1120 E. Kennedy Blvd.), May 28, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Late Start Brewing (1018 E. Cass St.), May 29, 5 to 7 p.m.
• Top Shelf Sports Lounge (401 E. Jackson St.), May 30, 5 to 7 p.m.
• Small Giant (1051 Water St.), May 31, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Boulevard at West River (1345 W. Main St.), June 1, 9 a.m. to noon.
• Ulele (1810 N Highland Ave), June 2, 9 a.m. to noon.
• Tori Bar (442 W. Grand Central Ave.), June 3, 5 to 7 p.m.
• Mayor’s Food Truck Fiesta at Lykes Gaslight Square Park (400 N. Franklin St.), June 4, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

 

Prosecutor earns kudos from conservation group

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission presented Assistant State Attorney Benjamin Laing with the 2025 FWC Division of Law Enforcement Prosecutor of the Year award. 

Kaubg represents the 6th Judicial Court, serving Pasco and Pinellas counties.

Laing was nominated for his legal expertise and dedication, which contributed to the prosecution of several major cases, including a high-profile shorebird poaching incident.

He also established a system in which violators donate their financial penalties to the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida. This idea generated $50,000 last year to support these efforts.

“Benjamin’s invaluable partnership with the FWC and strategic approach has led to stronger legal actions against those who harm protected species, including manatees, gopher tortoises and migratory birds,” said Col. Brian Smith, director of the FWC Division of Law Enforcement. “He is a true advocate for wildlife justice and doesn’t hesitate to take on complex cases.”

 

EōS Fitness opens new gym

LAND O’ LAKES – EōS Fitness has opened 15,406-square-foot, full-service gym at the Village Lakes Shopping Center. 

The gym represents the brand’s second location in Land O’ Lakes and 17th location in Florida. 

EōS Fitness welcomes members 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It offers cardio and strength equipment, recovery solutions, smart technologies and group fitness and personal training options.

A few perks of this particular location include a Evolt 360 Body Composition Scanner that provides data about your body through 40+ fitness measures, as well as an indoor green turf training area, a recovery space with massage chairs and a locker room with showers. 

Memberships start as low as $9.99 per month. 

On the web: www.eosfitness.com

 

Coke Florida sponsors home 

SPRING HILL – Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside announced Coca-Cola Beverages Florida LLC as its first home sponsor in Hernando County. 

This partnership marks a milestone in expanding Habitat’s impact across the Tampa Bay region. 

In April 2024, Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside was chosen by Habitat for Humanity International to expand its service area of Pinellas and West Pasco counties northward to include Hernando County.

While this is the first Habitat build in Hernando County, it will be the 19th Habitat build for Coke Florida. The 10-year-old bottler has an annual commitment to empowering communities across its footprint.

With this sponsorship, Coke Florida will provide financial support and volunteer hours to help build a safe, affordable home for the Pickering Family in Spring Hill.

“Coke Florida is a model company in the Tampa Bay region that understands the importance of giving back,” said Mike Sutton, the nonprofit’s president and CEO.

 

LocalShops1’s Shopapalooza Festival ushers in holidays

ST PETERSBURG – More than 350 makers and small businesses are coming together at St. Petersburg’s Vinoy Park on Thanksgiving Weekend for LocalShops1’s Shopapalooza Festival. 

“Shopapalooza Festival kicks off the holiday shopping season by celebrating the great independent businesses that make Tampa Bay such an amazing place,” said Ester Venouziou, LocalShops1 and Shopapalooza founder. 

Celebrating 15 years, the free festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 29 and 30. 

Registration is not required, but those who sign up are entered into a free drawing for prizes.

On the web: shopapaloozafestival.com

 

Network aids small firms

PENSACOLA – The Florida Small Business Development Center Network delivers consulting, training and market research at no cost, helping small business owners make better business decisions and reach their goals.

In 2024, the network provided over 107,000 hours of consulting to more than 15,000 clients, helping Florida’s small business community achieve:

• $304 million in capital secured.
• $732 million in government contracts awarded.
• 19,800 jobs impacted.
• $3.8 billion in increased sales.
• 1,019 new businesses launched.

“These numbers represent more than just data – they tell the story of our team and the determination of Florida’s small businesses,” said Greg Britton, state director of the Florida SBDC Network. “They reflect dreams realized, jobs created and communities strengthened.”

On the web: floridasbdc.org/results/

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a member orientation, Coffee Social and Lunch N Learn.

• Members convene for a Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. May 21 at Boardwalk Wealth Solutions (inside the Signature Workspace building), 28210 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. 
• Datalis Technologies presents “Tech Made Simple: How IT, AI and Data Can Help Your Business Grow” during a Lunch N Learn from noon to 1:30 p.m. May 22 at USF Credit Union, 20610 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa. Registration costs $15. Register in advance. 
• The chamber hosts orientation for new members from 9 to 10 a.m. May 28 at its Wiregrass Mall location, 28329 Paseo Drive, suite 195, Wesley Chapel. Register in advance. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

NEW PORT RICHEY – Greater Pasco Chamber members will host a New Port Richey Brochure Exchange and Professional Women in Business Group programming.

• The Professional Women in Business Group holds its Networking Meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 21 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Registration costs $12  for members and $15 for others. Register in advance. 
• Members network during the New Port Richey Brochure Exchange from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 22 at Vesh, 5811 Richey Drive, Port Richey. Members get in free. Others pay $10. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

DADE CITY – East Pasco Chamber members will host Coffee & Networking events. 

• Members meet up for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. May 23 at the chamber’s Zephyrhills location, 38550 5th Ave., or 8 to 9 a.m. May 27 at the chamber’s Dade City location, 14112 8th St. Register in advance. 

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

 

North Tampa Bay events

LAND O’ LAKES – North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Coffee Social and Lunch N Learn.

• Members convene for a Coffee Social from 9 to 10:30 a.m. May 21 at Boardwalk Wealth Solutions (inside the Signature Workspace building), 28210 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. 
• Datalis Technologies presents “Tech Made Simple: How IT, AI and Data Can Help Your Business Grow” during a Lunch N Learn from noon to 1:30 p.m. May 22 at USF Credit Union, 20610 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa. Registration costs $15. Register in advance. 

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

 

Greater Pasco events

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

• The chamber supports Coastal Bay Tax & Consulting with a ribbon cutting from 3 to 5 p.m. May 16 at Coastal Bay Tax & Consulting, 5709 Tidalwave Drive, New Port Richey. The ribbon cutting starts at 4 p.m. Register in advance. 
• The Professional Women in Business Group holds its Networking Meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 21 at HCA Florida Hospital Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, Trinity. Registration costs $12  for members and $15 for others. Register in advance. 

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

 

East Pasco events

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

• Members learn about their memberships during Core Connections from 8 to 9 a.m. May 15 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s Dade City Office, 14112 8th St., Dade City. 
• Members meet for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. May 16 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s Zephyrhills Office, 38550 5th Ave., Zephyrhills. 
• Members meet for Coffee & Networking from 8 to 9 a.m. May 20 at East Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s Dade City Office, 14112 8th St., Dade City. 

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

 

HomeWatch keeps an eye out

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Habitat board members win Heroes Among Us awards

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

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

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

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

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

 

Eatery offers $4 meal deal

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

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

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

On the web: CheckersandRallys.com 

 

Ticket act cuts sticker shock

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

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

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

 

North Tampa Bay events

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

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

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

 

Greater Pasco events

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

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

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

 

East Pasco events

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

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

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