Business Digest

Business Digest 11/07/2018

November 7, 2018 By B.C. Manion

(Courtesy of San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union)

Credit union adding Dade City office
The San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union had a groundbreaking ceremony on Oct. 12 at the site where a new Dade City location is expected to open in 2019.

Those attending the ceremony for the new site included representatives from W. M. Scharber Construction, Financial Facilities Inc., The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez and City Commissioners, and the credit union’s management, board of directors and supervisory committee.

The property is on the corner of Highway 301 and Sprocket Way in The Shoppes of Dade City, where Publix is located.

Finalists named
Finalists have been named for the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s 2018 “Celebrating Excellence in Business” presented by Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel.

The finalists are:

Volunteer of the Year: Craig Miller, Damaris Rios, Jannah McDonald
Small Business of the Year: Buttermilk Provisions, 900 degree Woodfired Pizza, Kona Ice
New Business of the Year: Noble Crust-Wesley Chapel, Estheti813, Holiday Inn Express-Trinity
Large Business of the Year: Shriners Hospital for Children, American Consulting Engineers, Cheval Golf and Country Club
Business Leader of the Year: Dr. Mark O’ Farrell, Roberto Saez, Dr. Kevin O’Farrell

The event is set for Nov. 8 at the Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel, Sierra Conference Center. The cocktail hour begins at 6:30 p.m., and the award program at 7:30 p.m.

Job fair in Dade City
Pasco-Hernando State College, CareerSource Pasco Hernando and The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce are hosting a Job and Internship Fair on Nov. 13, from 9 a.m. to noon, at the state college’s East Campus at 36727 Blanton Road, in Dade City.

“We are thrilled to host another job fair for all community members seeking employment,” Ed Goolsby, D.M., provost, PHSC East Campus, said in a news release. “And, once again, our event will offer internship opportunities for students.”

Local health care, manufacturing and other employers will be on hand to those seeking employment. Attendees are encouraged to wear professional dress and bring plenty of résumés. Job seekers may preregister online at Eventbrite.com, and search for PHSC Job Fair, Dade City.

Hyatt Place grand opening
Hyatt Place had its grand opening on Oct. 25, at 26000 Sierra Center Blvd., in Lutz.

David Weekley Homes collecting food
David Weekley Homes, the nation’s largest privately held builder, is hosting its fourth annual companywide Giving Thanks, Giving Back Thanksgiving Drive for Tampa-area residents.

David Weekley Homes’ team members are accepting nonperishable items from Nov. 1 through Nov. 15 at all model homes.

Veterans Small Business Week
The U.S. Small Business Administration will celebrate the accomplishments of veteran, service member and military spouse small business owners nationwide during National Veterans Small Business Week, Nov. 5 to Nov. 9.

“National Veterans Small Business Week is another opportunity for us not only to highlight the success of our nation’s 2.5 million veteran-owned businesses, but also to recognize the areas where there is still work to be done,” SBA Administrator Linda McMahon said, in a news release. “Entrepreneurship is not a solo mission. I’m proud to be a part of a network that serves the needs of our veteran and military business owners.”

How to Start Your Own Business
Learn the ins and outs of starting your own business during a workshop on Nov. 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. The workshop includes learning how to structure your business, develop a business plan, and how to manage cash flow. Participants can walk away with a helpful checklist.

Gulfside to add home health agency services
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care Inc. (“Gulfside”) and Community Aging and Retirement Services Inc. (“CARES”), have announced that the companies have entered into a definitive agreement for Gulfside’s acquisition of certain assets of CARES’ Home Health Agency, which will allow Gulfside to provide licensed skilled home health agency services, according to a news release. The closing of the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including obtaining approval for the transaction from the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (“AHCA”).

“This business strategy has been a goal for several years, and soon the addition of skilled home health will complement the continuum of services that Gulfside currently provides, allowing people to remain in their homes with many options for care,” Linda Ward, president and chief executive officer for Gulfside, said in the release.

Small business lending momentum continues
The U.S. Small Business Administration has announced lending numbers for fiscal year 2018, showing that it guaranteed over $30 billion to small businesses that otherwise would not have had access to capital, according to a new release.

“We are providing tools, resources and access to capital for America’s 30 million small businesses, and our FY18 numbers bear that out,” SBA Administrator Linda McMahon said.

In FY18, there was significant growth in the SBA’s smaller loans, including a record volume of dollars lent in the Microloan and Community Advantage Programs. Specifically, over 5,000 loans were approved for over $72 million in the Microloan program and over 1,000 loans for over $150 million in SBA’s Community Advantage program.

For more information about SBA’s loan programs, financial assistance and other services, visit SBA.gov.

Allstate agency owners helping domestic violence survivors
Tampa-area Allstate agency owners are collecting supplies through Nov. 16 to benefit Sunrise of Pasco County and the domestic violence survivors it serves, according to a news release.

The most-needed items include blow dryers, baby and kid’s shampoo, pacifiers, bath towels, pillows and pillowcases, bandages, paper towels and toilet paper.

Tampa-area community members can drop off items for donation at the following Allstate locations:

Sebastian Dealmenara: 8543 Gunn Highway, Odessa
Lisette Fernandez: 4935 Van Dyke Road, Lutz
Michael Lia: 11001 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa
Naomi Taylor-Kenney 4322 W. El Prado Blvd., Tampa
Ryan Toombs: 4551 Gunn Highway, Tampa

Business Digest 10/31/2018

October 31, 2018 By B.C. Manion

2018 Economic Summit
The 2018 annual Economic Development Summit is set for Nov. 1 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. Numerous panelists will discuss the economic opportunities in health care, education, tourism and hospitality, and the overall business development environment. For tickets or more information, call (813) 994-8534.

Women-n-Charge
Women-n-Charge meets at 11:30 a.m., on the first Friday of each month, at the 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. Tuesday and after, the cost is $20 for members and $23 for guests. To RSVP, visit Women-n-charge.com/meetings/. For information, call (813) 600-9848.

Boss Babe networking
Two Sisters DIY Workshop, 2020 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite 4, in Lutz, will host a Boss Babe Network Night on Nov. 6 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., to give women professionals and entrepreneurs a chance to make connections and referrals. Bring plenty of business cards. Each person attending should bring a product, gift card, or small gift basket (no coupons) to go toward a raffle. Food and beverages will be provided. The group meets the first Tuesday of each month. For information, call (813) 586-3521.

North Tampa Bay Chamber awards celebration
The North Tampa Bay Chamber’s “Celebrating Excellence in Business” awards celebration is planned for Nov. 8 at Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel in the Sierra Conference Center. The event begins with a cocktail hour at 6:30 p.m., and the awards program at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $65 per person or $520 per corporate table of eight. There is a cash bar, and the dress is business or cocktail attire. For more information or to register, visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

Central Pasco Chamber meeting
Kris Carson of the Florida Department of Transportation will be the featured speaker at the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Nov. 13, at the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Parkway in Lutz. Networking begins at 11:30 a.m., with lunch and the meeting at noon. The charge is $20, if RSVP is made by Thursday, for members only, and $25 for nonmembers. The fee is $25 at the door. For more information or to RSVP, contact the chamber at (813) 909-2722 or .

East Pasco Networking Group
Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley is scheduled to be the guest speaker at the East Pasco Networking Group meeting on Nov. 13. The group meets at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP in Dade City, 13100 US 301 in Dade City. For more information, call Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491.

North Tampa Bay Chamber luncheon meeting
Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey will be the featured speaker for the North Tampa Bay Chamber’s luncheon meeting Nov. 14 at the Fox Hollow Golf Club, 10050 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity. The event is from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $20. Please RSVP and pre-pay, if possible. For more information, call (813) 994-8534, or email the chamber’s office at .

Virtual business conference
SCORE is having a Small Business Success Virtual Conference on Nov. 8 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. To find out more, visit the Pasco-Hernando SCORE Chapter 439 website at PascoHernando.score.org.

Celebrating women in business
The National Women’s Business Council celebrated the anniversary of the passage of H.R. 5050, the Women’s Business Ownership Act on Oct. 25. The passage of the legislation was historic, giving women critical resources to build their own enterprises and succeed in their respective fields.

How to start your own business
Learn how to start your own business through this SCORE workshop on Nov. 15 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. The seminar provides an introduction and overview of key issues related to starting a business. Issues covered include structuring a business plan, how to manage cash flow and other basics. You can walk away with a checklist intended to help you succeed.

Business Digest 10/24/2018

October 24, 2018 By B.C. Manion

Economic development talk
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 in New Tampa. The cost is $15. Call (813) 994-8534 for more information.

Premier HealthCare hiring event
Premier HealthCare is having a hiring event Oct. 30 from 8 a.m. to noon, at 37912 Church Ave., in Dade City. For more information call (352) 518-2000, or visit PremierHC.org.

Earth Fare is coming to Lutz
Earth Fare, a specialty organic and natural food grocery store, is opening a 24,000-square-foot store at 25535 Sierra Center Blvd., part of Cypress Creek Town Center, according to a news release.

Earth Fare currently operates 10 stores in Florida, including two others in the Tampa area.

Earth Fare’s 1,000 private brand food products are all sourced using only non-GMO ingredients, and new products are being added to the shelves each day, the release says.

Beyond groceries, the new store will also feature Earth Fare’s Heirloom Juice Bar, which features custom-crafted juices, smoothies and fresh coffee. Shoppers will also find a wide variety of clean, natural choices in Earth Fare’s ready-to-go and prepared foods department, including the salad bar, hot foods bar, pizza station, sandwich counter, and packaged meals-on-the-go. Shoppers can enjoy a homemade meal without the work, whether dining in the indoor and outdoor café with free Wi-Fi or taking it home, the release adds.

The new store is expected to open this winter.

To find out more, visit EarthFare.com.

Business Digest 10/17/2018

October 17, 2018 By B.C. Manion

MOD Pizza opens
BBX Capital, the exclusive MOD Pizza franchisee in Florida, opened on Oct. 9 at 2277 Sun Vista Drive, in the Cypress Creek Town Center. The 2,800-square-foot restaurant is in front of Tampa Premium Outlets, in Lutz. The restaurant defines itself as “a leader in the fast, casual pizza category,” according to a news release.

The first MOD Pizza franchise in Florida opened on Oct. 9 in the Cypress Creek Town Center. (Courtesy of Kip Hunter Marketing)

Customers create their own pizzas and salads, using a combination of more than 30 featured toppings, the release says. The price is the same, regardless of the number of toppings, and salads are individually hand-tossed for each customer.

The restaurant expects to have about 30 employees.

During the grand opening, the first 52 guests to arrive were treated to a free pizza. They also had a chance to meet pro football player Mike Evans and his wife Ashli. All of the proceeds from pizza sales on opening day were donated to The Mike Evans Family Foundation.

Commercial Fall Forum
This forum features a variety of topics related to commercial real estate and will include several speakers. The event is on Oct. 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn in Wesley Chapel, 26640 Silver Maple Parkway. The cost is $20 for members of the Central Pasco Association of Realtors and $25 for others. The event fee includes lunch. For information, call (813) 948-6966.

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.

Pasco EDC CEO Roundtable
The Pasco Economic Development Council is presenting a CEO Roundtable event on Oct. 23 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Big Storm Brewing Company, 2330 Success Drive in Odessa. Cost is $15 for members and $25 for non-members. For more information, call (888) 607-2726. Go to the events calendar on PascoEDC.com, and click on this event, to register.

East Pasco Networking Group
Zephyrhills Mayor Gene Whitfield will be the featured speaker at the East Pasco Networking Group breakfast meeting Oct. 23, starting at 7:30 p.m. The group meets at IHOP Dade City, at 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City. For more information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or .

Succeeding in business: From theory to practice
A session is planned on Oct. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., 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. Others will cover marketing, and aligning your aim 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 more. The seminar will be on the 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.

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.

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.

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.