Business Digest

Self-driving buses coming to Hillsborough County
U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis touted the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit system, or HART, at a recent hearing of the Communications and Technology subcommittee.

The transit service soon will begin operating a “first-of-its-kind” autonomous public bus system with wireless 5G capabilities.

The commuter shuttle will run in downtown Tampa. HART received about $1 million from the Florida Department of Transportation to test and get the service started.

Bilirakis is a member of the subcommittee, which is considering legislation to promote broadband and wireless technology. The hearing’s topic was “Fueling the 21st Century Wireless Economy.”

“I’m immensely proud that Hillsborough County, part of my district and part of our Tampa Bay community, is leading the charge to bring innovative technology to the public transportation sector,” said Bilirakis, in a press release issued by his office regarding the hearing.

The 5G is the fifth generation, and the next mobile wireless standard, anticipated by 2020. Most mobile phones now operate on 3G or 4G LTE.

Bilirakis also discussed the benefits of wireless for health care and tele-health technology. Nearly 24 percent of his constituents, which include Pasco County residents, are seniors, he said.

Health care providers can use advanced tele-health technology to evaluate and treat seniors and disabled patients remotely from the comfort of their homes, Bilirakis added.

North Tampa meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general meeting April 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Iavarone’s Steakhouse & Italian Grill, 3627 Humphrey St., in Tampa.

The guest speaker is Jeff Ruby, founder and president of RedRock Leadership.

The cost is $25 (whether you eat or not), payable at the door by cash, check or credit card.

For information, call the chamber office at (813) 563-0180, or visit NorthTampaChamber.com.

Chamber mixer
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly mixer April 13 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Happy Feet Plus, at 1051 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Members and guests are welcome to enjoy an evening of fun, food and networking.

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

Hispanic leaders lunch
The Hispanic Business Leaders of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will host a Hispanic Business Leaders Luncheon, open to all chamber members and guests, April 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

The cost is $20 for chamber members at the door, or $15, if pre-registered by April 13. For non-members, the cost is $20, if pre-registered or at the door.

For information, email Ignacio Ruiz at .

Axiom Bank ribbon cutting
Axiom Bank will have a ribbon cutting April 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 19910 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in New Tampa.

The event is free.

For information, email Jim Roth at .

Chamber honors citizens
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will recognize student citizens at its Chamber Citizen of the Month breakfast April 19 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., at The Church at Chancey Road, at 34921 Chancey Road, Zephyrhills.

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

Kaji Harmonies Therapies opens
Kaji Harmonies Therapies will have a ribbon cutting April 19 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 2748 Windguard Circle, Suite 102, in Wesley Chapel.

Kaji is a Japanese term which translates to “the flow of healing energy,” according to the company website.

Services offered include Integrated Massage and holistic, Japanese techniques that generate relaxation and reduce stress.

The event is free.

For information, call The Greater Wesley Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534, or email .

Export conference
The Pasco Economic Development Council will host Growing Global 2017-International Exporting Conference April 19 from 8 a.m. to noon, at the Anclote East Room of the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Suncoast Parkway, at 2155 Northpointe Parkway in Lutz.

The half-day conference will focus on strategies, tactics and resources for growing businesses by exporting goods and services. Panel discussions will cover topics such as shipping and logistics and “Tampa Bay’s Home Team-Going Global Case Studies.”

Vendor exhibitors will include the Small Business Development Center, Florida Department of Transportation, UPS, and U.S. Commercial Services.

The keynote speaker will be Ruben Ramos Arrieta, minister counselor for the economic and trade office embassy of the Republic of Cuba in Washington D.C.

The cost is $20.

Registration deadline is 5 p.m., on April 14.

For information, call Devon Barnett at the PEDC at (813) 926-0827, ext. 227, toll free at (888) 607-2726, or email .

Lunch n Learn
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will host a Lunch n Learn luncheon April 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Don Porter boardroom at the chamber’s office, at 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 105, in Wesley Chapel.

KMACC Solutions’ representatives will discuss “Emotional Intelligence (EQ): The Critical Link to Success in Business.”

The cost is $15, including lunch. Space is limited so pre-registration is recommended.

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

Shoe Carnival opening
Shoe Carnival will open April 7 in the Village Lakes Shopping Center in Land O’ Lakes, with a grand opening scheduled sometime in mid-May, according to company representatives. Previously, the opening had been announced for an earlier date.

The new shoe shop, off State Road 54, will be located in a suite next door to Ross Dress for Less.

Other Shoe Carnival stores in the region operate in Tampa, Bradenton, Brandon, Largo, St. Petersburg and Spring Hill.

Netfest set for April 6
Pasco Economic Development Council will host the 15th Annual Netfest April 6 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Starkey Ranch, at 2500 Heart Pine Ave., in Odessa.

The annual western-themed mixer is a night of food, drink, music and networking. Dress is casual. Hats and boots are proper attire.

The cost for Netfest general registration is $45 per person; $35 for Pasco EDC investors and guests; and $25 for Pasco County staff members.

Registration includes barbecue buffet and two drink tickets.

For information, call (813) 926-0827, ext. 226.

Popeye’s ribbon cutting
Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen will have a ribbon cutting April 7 from 10 a.m. to noon, at 28014 Wesley Chapel Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The fast-food restaurant offers a “New Orleans” style menu of spicy and mild chicken, chicken tenders, fried shrimp, and red beans and rice.

The event is free.

For information, call (813) 562-1255.

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on April 7 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The women share their talents and resources, and they build relationships with other women in business.

The guest speaker is Carol Goebel of Trail Wind Travel. She is an accredited cruise counselor who will talk about “Ways to Maximize your Vacations and Time Off.”

The cost is $15 for members and $18 for non-members.

To register, visit Women-n-charge.com.

For information, call (813) 600-9848, or email .

Grand reopening
Bon Worth is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a grand reopening and ribbon cutting April 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at Merchant Square, at 7409 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills. The celebration will include gift card drawings and special deals.

For information, call (813) 715-0057.

Ribbon cutting
Pasco’s Masonry & Landscaping Depot will have a ribbon cutting April 8 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 10301 U.S. 301, in Dade City.

The event is free.

For information, call (352) 437-4408.

General membership meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a membership meeting April 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Harbor Terrace Restaurant, at 19502 Heritage Harbor Parkway in Lutz.

Guest speaker is Jeff Lucas of The Law Offices of Lucas/Magazine. His topic will be “Neglected Infrastructure as it Relates to our Court System.”

Members and guests are welcome.

The cost for members only is $20 if you RSVP by April 6, or $25 at the door for members and non-members.

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

Business seminar
Pasco-Hernando SCORE Chapter 439 will host a free seminar on “Marketing to Grow Your Business” April 11 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, at 2816 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.

The seminar will provide tips on what works and what doesn’t work, what information is needed to write a sales and marketing plan, how to profile your customers, how to determine the best type of advertising and/or promotions, what you can learn from competitors and how to analyze your program’s effectiveness.

For information, email , or visit PascoHernando.score.org.

Business Link breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly breakfast April 12 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Saint Leo University, at 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo.

The monthly gathering, held at various locations, provides networking and an information-sharing platform for the small business community.

A complimentary breakfast will be provided. The event is sponsored by the San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union.

RSVP to Rebecca Gaddis at (352) 588-2732, ext. 1237.

 

Green industry training
The University of Florida and IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service will host a Green Industry Best Management Practices training session March 29 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

The program is designed for landscape professionals who apply pesticides and fertilizers commercially.

Preregistration and prepayment are required and can be completed online at tinyurl.com/kfy4pug. Click on “March” and scroll to 3/29/17 Green Industry Best Management Practices Training – GI-BMP ticket link.

The cost for training and lunch is $30 for green industry professionals. All participants must have a photo ID and a prepaid ticket for admission. No refunds allowed.

For information, call (352) 518-0156.

Ribbon cutting
Edward Jones Investments will have a ribbon cutting March 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 18932 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., in Lutz.

For information, email the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at .

Power networking
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce March 2017 Power Luncheon will be on March 30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at John Knox Village, at 4100 E. Fletcher Ave., in Tampa.

Lunch will be served in the Crystal Dining Room.

The cost is $20 for lunch, if registered online by March 21, and $25 at the door. Walk-ins will be served from a limited menu.

For information, call (813) 563-0180, email , or visit NorthTampaChamber.com.

Job expo
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have a Job Expo April 5 from 2:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Wesley Chapel High School, at 30651 Wells Road, in Wesley Chapel.

Companies have an opportunity to position themselves in front of qualified job seekers. Must have a minimum of two jobs available.

Vendors will be provided with 6-feet of table space, complimentary water and snacks. Set up is at 1:30 p.m.

The expo is free to chamber members; $50 for non-members.

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

Networking breakfast
The Wednesday Morning Network Group will meet April 5 at 7:30 a.m., at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que, at 3116 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Each attendee will be able to present a 30-second pitch. The cost for members only is $7, if preregistered by March 30. Thereafter, the cost is $10 for members and non-members at the door.

The Law Offices of Lucas/Magazine is the sponsor.

Register online at CentralPascoChamber.com.

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

NatureCoaster hires Ed Caum
Ed Caum will help NatureCoaster.com promote local outdoor experiences to area residents and tourists, according to an announcement from NatureCoaster.com.

Caum is the former tourism manager for Pasco County.

Caum, who grew up on an island in southeast Alaska, will contribute articles, photographs and sales efforts with local businesses and events. His articles will include “catch and cook” stories based on his fishing experiences, according to the news release.

His newest feature on the website is “Swimming with the Manatees Adventure.”

Caum is a photojournalist with more than 30 years of experience in addition to his years of work with nonprofit and government agencies.

Currently, he is helping several small businesses on Florida’s Gulf Coast with marketing and sales skills.

He is a photographer with television host Ronnie Green, on “A Fishing Story,” which airs on the World Fishing Network on Saturdays at 11 a.m.

Caum also chairs the cultural, heritage, rural and nature committee, and serves on the marketing steering committee for Visit Florida.

He is a current board member of the Pasco County leadership program and a member of the Florida Outdoor Writers Association.

To share story ideas or partnership opportunities, or for more information, email .

Top Realtors
Coldwell Banker F.I. Grey & Son Residential Inc., announced its top sales agents for February 2017. The company is located at 6330 U.S. Hwy. 19 in New Port Richey and at 24620 State Road 54 in Lutz.

The top listing agent by units and volume was Randal Jenkins; and, the top selling agent and top producing agent by units and volume was Lynette Krull.

For information, call Coldwell Banker at (727) 495-2424.

Economic briefing
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will host an Economic Development Briefing March 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa.

The guest speaker is Heidi Tuttle-Beisner, broker and owner of Commercial Asset Partners Realty. She will discuss COMPARK 75, a Class A commercial park which abuts Interstate 75. It is located between State Road 54 and State 56 interchanges, about 12 miles east of Suncoast Parkway.

The $15 cost includes a buffet lunch.

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

Business roundtable
CareerSource Pasco-Hernando State College will have a Manufacturers’ Roundtable March 23 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at 4440 Grand Blvd., in New Port Richey.

The roundtable will feature training and workforce needs, business growth and technology, and market trends.

For information and to register, contact Maria Reza at (352) 247-0281 or .

Green industry training
The University of Florida and IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service will host a Green Industry Best Management Practices training session March 29 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The program is designed for landscape professionals who apply pesticides and fertilizers commercially.

Preregistration and prepayment are required and can be completed online at Pasco.ifas.ufl.edu/events_calendar.shtml. Click on “March,” and scroll to 3/29/17 Green Industry Best Management Practices Training – GI-BMP ticket link.

The cost for training and lunch is $30 for green industry professionals. All participants must have a photo ID and a prepaid ticket for admission. No refunds allowed.

For information, call (352) 518-0156.

Ribbon cutting
Edward Jones Investments will have a ribbon cutting March 29 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 18932 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., in Lutz.

For information, contact the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at .

Power networking
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce March 2017 Power Luncheon will take place March 30 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at John Knox Village, 4100 E. Fletcher Ave., in Tampa.

Lunch will be served in the Crystal Dining Room.

The cost is $25 at the door. Walk-ins will be served from a limited menu.

For information, call (813) 563-0180, email , or visit NorthTampaChamber.com.

 

New Port Richey job fair
The “Open for All” Job Fair will be March 16 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., on the West Campus of Pasco-Hernando State College, at 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey.

The community job fair will have representatives from for-profit, nonprofit and government organizations.

For information, call Jackie Eden, assistant director of career and testing services for the college, at (727) 816-3334, or visit PHSC.edu/event/open-all-job-fair.

Women-n-Charge grants
Women-n-Charge is offering two $1,000 grants to be given out this spring.

The organization makes these grants available annually to support its mission of helping professional women manage their businesses more effectively.

The grants can be used for business-related equipment or services, or for continuing education.

Applications can be filled out online and are due by April 14. The winners will be announced May 5 at the monthly meeting at Pebble Creek Country Club in Tampa.

For information, contact Judy Nicolosi, treasurer of Women-n-Charge, at (813) 600-9848 or . To apply, visit Women-n-charge.com/grants.

Lunch and learn
Pasco-Hernando State College will host an “Open for All Lunch and Learn” workshop for local employers on March 16 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the West Conference Center at PHSC at 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey.

The free event will have a panel discussion on the benefits of hiring an individual with a disability. Topics will include strengthening a company’s work culture, tax benefits, wage reimbursement and training assistance.

Panel participants will include representatives of CareerSource Pasco Hernando; The Arc Nature Coast; Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind; Deaf & Hard of Hearing Services of Florida Inc.; Connections Job Development Program; National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI); and, PHSC’s Office of Disabilities Services.

For information, contact Jackie Eden, the college’s assistant director of career & testing services, at (727) 816-3334 or ., or visit InclusionWorksLunchAndLearn.eventbrite.com.

Aesthetic center ribbon cutting
Meraki Aesthetic Center will have a ribbon cutting on March 16 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 26907 Foggy Creek Road, Suite 102, in Wesley Chapel.

The center provides a range of clinical and holistic skincare services including facials, waxing, hair removal, massage and advanced peels.

For information, visit ThinkPerfectSkin.com, or contact The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534 or .

Top Realtors
Coldwell Banker F.I. Grey & Son Residential Inc., announced its top sales agents for February 2017. The company is located at 6330 U.S. Hwy. 19 in New Port Richey and at 24620 State Road 54 in Lutz.

The top listing agent by units and volume was Randal Jenkins; top selling agent and top producing agent by units and volume was Lynette Krull.

For information, call Coldwell Banker at (727) 495-2424.

Senior living ribbon cutting
Angels Senior Living at Connerton Court will have a ribbon cutting March 17 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 21021 Betel Palm Ave., in Land O’ Lakes.

For information, call Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 909-2722, or email Suzanne Beauchaine at .

Breakfast networking
The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly “Rise & Shine” breakfast meeting on March 21 at 7:30 a.m., at Kafe Kokopelli, at 37940 Oak Ave., in downtown Dade City. The host is Premium Title Inc.

The cost is $5 person.

For information and to RSVP, call the chamber at (352) 567-3769.

Business roundtable
CareerSource Pasco-Hernando State College will have a Manufacturers’ Roundtable on March 23 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at 4440 Grand Blvd., in New Port Richey.

The roundtable will feature training and workforce needs, business growth and technology, and market trends.

For information and to register, contact Maria Reza (352) 247-0281 or .

Wesley Chapel job expo
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have a Job Expo on April 5 from 2:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Wesley Chapel High School, 30651 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel.

The expo allows companies to position themselves in front of qualified job seekers.

To participate, a company must have a minimum of two available jobs. Vendors will receive 6 feet of table space, complimentary water and snacks. Setup is at 1:30 p.m.

The expo is free to chamber members and $50 for non-members.

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

Doing business internationally
You can join the Tampa Bay Export Alliance and regional business leaders at Growing Global, a half-day international exporting conference. Registration is $20 for the April 19 event, from 8 a.m. to noon, at the Hilton Garden Inn Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Parkway in Lutz. The keynote presenter will talk about doing business in Cuba.

The registration deadline is 5 p.m., on April 14. To find out more, click on the events tab of the Pasco Economic Development Corporations’ website, PascoEDC.com.

 

Clothing retailer opens
CONCEPT is a new local retailer at Tampa Premium Outlets, located off State Road 56, at the Interstate 75 interchange. The shop opened on March 3 across from Armani Outlet.

The 3,200-square-foot shop offers a variety of hip and trendy clothing, shoes and accessories for juniors.

For information, visit ConceptClothingStores.com.

New physicians
Florida Hospital Physician Group had a ribbon cutting March 1 at 18923 State Road 54 in Lutz.

The physicians group represents multiple specialties and has locations throughout West Central Florida, according to its website.

More than 170 providers in the coverage area render care in more than 25 medical specialties in 45 locations. Physicians in Tampa Bay provide care at locations in Carrollwood, North Pinellas, Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills and now, Lutz.

For information, visit FHPhysicianGroup.com.

Grand opening
Architectural Signage and Printing had a grand opening March 2 at 6812 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The company has been in business in Tampa Bay since 1989. Retail and wholesale customers can request a range of signage, and related items, including awards, banners, brochures, business cards, embroidery and real estate signs.

Hours are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For information, call (813) 996-6777, or visit SignsByAsap.com.

Business seminar
Pasco-Hernando SCORE will have a free business seminar offering “Financial Tips for Your Small Business” March 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at New River Branch Library, at 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel.

The seminar will offer tips on how to finance your business, plan for your financial success and take control of cash flow.

For information, email , or visit PascoHernando.score.org.

Joint mixer
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce and The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will host a joint monthly mixer March 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Florida Hospital Center Ice, at 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The event is free, and open to members and their guests.

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

North Tampa chamber
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general meeting March 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Iavarone’s Steakhouse & Italian Grill, 3617 Humphrey St., in Tampa.

The guest speaker will be Barry Coziahr of Postcard Mania.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card or to the chamber office at by 5 p.m., on March 7, at the discounted rate of $20 (whether you eat or not). After that date, the cost is $25 (whether you eat or not), payable at the door by cash, check or credit card.

For information, call the chamber office at (813) 563-0180, or visit NorthTampaChamber.com.

Ribbon cutting
Wok Chi restaurant will have a ribbon cutting at The Shops at Wiregrass March 10 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 28152 Paseo Drive, Suite 160, in Wesley Chapel.

For information, contact the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534 or .

Starting a business
Pasco-Hernando SCORE Chapter 439 will host a seminar on “How to Really Start Your Own Business” on March 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, at 2818 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.

The seminar will provide introductory information and key issues on how to start a business. There also will be information on insurance, local requirements and helpful sources for starting a business.

For more, call (727) 842-4638, email , or visit PascoHernando.score.org.

Central Pasco chamber
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly general meeting on March 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Harbor Terrace Restaurant, at 19502 Heritage Harbor Parkway in Lutz.

Guest speaker will be O.T. “Ollie” Gagnon III, protective security advisor for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Infrastructure Protection. He will discuss measures to protect buildings and venues.

Members and guests are welcome.

The cost is $20 for members if you RSVP by March 9, or $25 at the door for members and non-members.

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

Breakfast meeting
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on March 14 at 7:30 a.m., at the Village Inn at 5214 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

The guest speaker will be historian and author Madonna Jervis Wise, who will discuss “Women’s History Month: A Look at Women Who Rocked!”

For information, contact Chairman Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or , or Vice Chairwoman Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1149 or .

Info center ribbon cutting
Avalon Park West will celebrate the opening of the master-planned community’s information center on March 15 from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at 33613 State Road 56, in Wesley Chapel. A ribbon cutting will take place at 10:30 a.m.

Light refreshments and baked goods from Stonewall Artisan Bakery & Desserts will be served.

For information, contact The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534 or .

Pulte virtual home tours
Pulte Homes invites prospective homebuyers to take virtual tours of its home designs at Starkey Ranch, according to a press release from Larry Vershel Communications.

The virtual tours are in advance of model homes that are under construction. The master-planned community is adjacent to J.B. Starkey Wilderness Preserve, off State Road 54 and Heart Pine Avenue in Odessa.

Visitors to Pulte’s office at Starkey Ranch can sit comfortably in a chair and wear a Samsung preloaded headset to “walk” through decorated model homes, according to Sean Strickler, West Florida division president for Pulte Homes.

Pulte sales staff members introduced the headsets about a month ago. They attribute the headsets to a recent sale of Pulte’s two-story Valleybrook home, one of 15 floor plans offered at Starkey Ranch. The home is about 3,300 square feet and priced from about $364,000.

For information or to schedule a virtual tour, call (813) 391-7580, or visit Pulte.com/starkeyranch to register for VIP updates, including home site details and grand opening information.

Ashton Woods model homes
Two model homes from Ashton Woods will soon be ready for viewing at the master-planned community of Asturia, on State Road 54 near Suncoast Parkway.

The Lincoln model home is about 2,300 square feet, with three bedrooms and 2 ½ bathrooms. The two-story floor plan has a spacious kitchen, with a large center island, granite countertops and a walk-in pantry. The laundry room is on the second floor with the bedrooms. Sales price starts at about $371,000.

The Truman model home is about 1,900 square feet, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. It has a split floor plan, with a large master bedroom and walk-in closet. The kitchen features a center island, granite countertops, custom backsplash, pantry, 42-inch upper cabinets and black stainless steel appliances. The starting price is about $308,000.

Asturia has single-family homes and apartments, a resort-style pool, nature trails, parks, playgrounds and picnic areas. Base pricing for homes is from the mid-$200,000s.

For information, visit AshtonWoods.com.

Cuban-American restaurant opens
La Yuma will have a grand opening on March 2 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 16411 N. Florida Ave., in Lutz.

Dinner and drink specials, and live entertainment, are planned.

The casual, fine dining restaurant opened in January, serving lunch and dinner. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., on Tuesday through Thursday, and also on Sunday. On Friday and Saturday, hours are 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The menu includes tapas, soups and salads, and favorite Cuban cuisine such as Picadillo Habanero, Ropa Vieja and Cuban sandwiches. A range of beers, Cuba libres and Pepe’s Homemade Sangria are among offerings from the bar.

A children’s menu offers fried shrimp, chicken fingers and burgers.

La Yuma is owned and operated by Lutz residents, Thania Diaz Clevenger, and her husband, Ashley Clevenger.

Chef Pepe Diaz (Tania’s father) is also the owner of El Meson de Pepe in Key West, which he started with his wife, Tania Diaz, more than 30 years ago.

To RSVP, call (813) 374-8514 or email .

For information, also contact the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at .

Joint mixer
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce and The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will host a joint monthly mixer on March 9 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Florida Hospital Center Ice, at 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The event is free, and open to members and their guests.

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

 

Chiropractic ribbon cutting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce welcomed its newest member at a ribbon cutting for Carrazana Chiropractic on Feb. 16, at 1930 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite 16.

Dr. Carlos Carrazana’s clinic specializes in car injury accidents, according to the clinic website. Clients can receive chiropractic services, as well as physical therapy and massage therapy.

For information, visit CarrazanaChiropractor.com, or call (813) 591-2506.

 

 

 

 

Take 5 ribbon cuttings planned
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host two ribbon cuttings for Take 5 Oil Change.

The first event will Feb. 23 at 4 p.m., at Take 5 Oil Change, 5309 Gunn Highway. The second event will be Feb. 24 at 11:30 a.m., at Take 5 Oil Change, 4319 Ehrlich Road.

Light refreshments will be served.

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

Job promotion
James Hall, the chief operations officer of Goin’ Postal Franchise Corporation and GP Brands, has been tapped as chief executive officer of GP Brands Inc., as of Feb. 13.

GP Brands offers franchises to serve an array of potential business owners and their consumer markets, including Goin’ Postal neighborhood shipping stores, GP Postal stores (inside Walmart stores), Hut no. 8 clothing and accessory stores, and Sir Face Lift mobile commercial kitchen services.

Marcus Price, former chief executive officer and co-founder of Goin’ Postal, will now focus on the creation of GP Brand’s newest franchise chain, with an estimated launch in the first quarter of 2018. No details on the franchise were available.

Doing business with government
Pasco County will sponsor the Pasco County Reverse Trade Show on March 2 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center, 3032 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.

A reverse trade show allows suppliers, consultants, contractors and other company representatives to meet with procurement professionals and department staff from government offices. In addition to Pasco County, participants include Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, County Clerk of Circuit Courts, Dade City, New Port Richey, Port Richey, the City of San Antonio, and the Town of St. Leo.

The goal is to encourage more vendor participation. It also allows departments to see products, and can help streamline the process for contractors and vendors who want to do business with government.

Small businesses, minority-owned businesses, women-owned businesses and disadvantaged businesses are encouraged to attend and network with other companies.

Company representatives can move from table to table on the trade show floor to meet with representatives of government agencies and share information on their goods and services.

Registration is free.

For information, email Christine Davis at .

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on March 3 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The women share their talents and resources, and they build relationships with other women in business.

No guest speaker is planned. Instead, there will be extra networking time. Each attendee also will have a minute to introduce herself and talk about her business.

The cost is $15 for members and $18 for non-members.

To register, visit Women-n-charge.com.

For information, call (813) 600-9848, or email .

Business Link breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on March 8 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Wesley Chapel Toyota, at 5300 Eagleston Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The monthly gathering, held at various locations, provides networking and an information-sharing platform for the small business community.

A complimentary breakfast will be provided. The event is sponsored by the San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union.

RSVP to Rebecca Gaddis at (352) 588-2732, ext. 1237.

General meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general meeting on March 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Iavarone’s Steakhouse & Italian Grill, 3617 Humphrey St., in Tampa.

The guest speaker will be Barry Coziahr of Postcard Mania.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card or to the chamber office at by 5 p.m., on March 7, at the discounted rate of $20 (whether you eat or not). After that date, the cost is $25 (whether you eat or not), payable at the door by cash, check or credit card.

For information, call the chamber office at (813) 563-0180, or visit NorthTampaChamber.com.

Breakfast meeting
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on March 14 at 7:30 a.m., at the Village Inn at 5214 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

The guest speaker will be historian and author Madonna Jervis Wise, who will discuss “Women’s History Month: A Look at Women Who Rocked!”

For information, contact Chairman Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or , or Vice Chairwoman Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1149 or .

NetFest sponsorships

The Pasco Economic Development Council is seeking sponsors for the 15th Annual NetFest (Networking Festival) on April 6 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Starkey Ranch on State Road 54 in Odessa.

The annual mixer is a night of food, drink, music and networking. Dress is casual. Hats and boots are proper attire.

Sponsorships range from $500 to $2,000 for the “sponsor-only chili cook-off.”

Sponsorship forms can be downloaded at PascoEDC.com.

For information, call (813) 926-0827, ext. 226, or email .

 

 

 

 

 

New Wiregrass restaurant
Wok Chi opened at The Shops in Wiregrass, at 28152 Paseo Drive, on Feb. 6, according to a news release from Wiregrass.

This is the third location for Florida-based Wok Chi, which offers fast, casual Asian stir-fry and fresh dim-sum. Additional restaurants are slated to open in New York City and elsewhere in Florida in 2017.

The restaurant’s first franchise launched in Dubai in 2016.

Wok Chi focuses on fresh, healthy foods promising “no batter, just what matters.”

The 2,400-square-foot restaurant has wok-shaped light fixtures, red and white tile, and bamboo accents. Diners craft their own bowls of Asian stir-fry cuisine, from a selection of all-natural, hormone-free chicken, beef, pork and shrimp; organic tofu; and, fresh seasonal vegetables, sauces and bases.

Each bowl is made to order in the restaurant’s open kitchen.

Dim-sum items, unique to the Wiregrass location, include Spi-Chi Shrimp/Vegetable and Cheese Fritters; Crab Rangoon; and, Lemongrass Pot Stickers. There also are salads and desserts.

Wok Chi is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For information, visit WokChi.com, or call (813) 862-2315.

New Race Trac
Newland Communities, developer of the master-planned community of Bexley, will add a Race Trac gas station and convenience store at the northeast corner of State Road 54 and Bexley Village Drive.

Race Trac, which is based in Atlanta, currently has 35 stores in Tampa Bay, including eight in Pasco, with another five under development in the area.

The Race Trac store in Bexley is expected to open in 2018. It will feature “made-to-order” food and beverages, enabling customers to personalize their sandwiches, pizzas, smoothies, milkshakes and espressos. There will be a Swirl World frozen treat station featuring ice cream, frozen yogurt, Italian ice options and an array of toppings.

Customers also can enjoy free WiFi and a covered outdoor seating area.

For information, visit BexleyFlorida.com.

Take 5 ribbon cuttings planned
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host two ribbon cuttings for Take 5 Oil Change.

The first event will Feb. 23 at 4 p.m., at Take 5 Oil Change, 5309 Gunn Highway. The second event will be Feb. 24 at 11:30 a.m., at Take 5 Oil Change, 4319 Ehrlich Road.

Light refreshments will be served.

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

School job fair
The Pasco County School District will host a Spring Instructional Job Fair on Feb. 23 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Wesley Chapel High School gymnasium, 30651 Wells Road.

The district is seeking teachers and student services employees. Positions are available at the elementary, middle and high school levels for reading, math, science, emotional and behavioral disorders/autism spectrum disorder, school nurse and behavioral analyst.

Applicants can have on-the-spot interviews.

For information, visit PascoSchools.org and click the Job Fair banner, or contact human capital partner Lori Perreault at (813) 794-2845 or .

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on March 3 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The women share their talents and resources, and they build relationships with other women in business.

No guest speaker is planned. Instead, there will be extra networking time. Each attendee also will have a minute to introduce herself and talk about her business.

The cost is $15 for members and $18 for non-members.

To register, visit Women-n-charge.com.

For information, call (813) 600-9848, or email .

Breakfast meeting
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on March 14 at 7:30 a.m., at the Village Inn at 5214 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Guest speaker will be historian and author Madonna Jervis Wise, who will discuss “Women’s History Month: A Look at Women Who Rocked!”

For information, contact Chairman Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or , or Vice Chairwoman Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1149 or .

CABA Hall of Fame
The Carrollwood Area Business Association honored 10 inductees as the charter class for the organization’s CABA Hall of Fame, at a luncheon on Feb. 1 at Brunchie’s of Tampa, according to a news release from the business group.

An “After 5” mixer and ribbon cutting celebrated Brunchie’s as the home of CABA’s Hall of Fame and also the restaurant’s 10th year at 14366 N. Dale Mabry Highway. The charter Hall of Fame members are from the organization’s first decade, 1986 to 1996.

Brunchie’s owner Bill Kranich renamed his restaurant’s meeting room as the “CABA Room.”

All Hall of Fame inductees have been active CABA members for 10 years or more and have made significant leadership contributions for five years or more, according to Jeff Ryder, the group’s president.

Kranich attributes Brunchie’s survival and ongoing success to the support from CABA members during the past decade. A new Brunchie’s has opened at 24400 State Road 54 in Lutz.

The inductees were John Baumann, founding member of CABA; Robert Ahern, Ahern Insurance Services; Jim Keeper and Debi Ryan, Executive Massage Therapy; Percy J. Legendre II, Bashor & Legendre; Dr. Barry D. Shapiro, Carrollwood Chiropractic Center and Family Medical and Rehabilitation Center Inc.; Jim Kalameris, Kalameris Construction; Nancy Gordon, First Citrus Bank; Sandra Chewning, KohlerHaus; Don Coryell, Greenacre Properties; and, Noreen Klein, Premier Bookkeeping Services.

For information, visit UseCABA.com.

Anne Kibbe joins The Laker/Lutz News
Anne M. Kibbe, a long-time resident of San Antonio, has joined The Laker/Lutz News as the account manager for East Pasco County.

She has lived and worked in Pasco and Hernando counties for 25 years. Her husband, Curt, is a small business owner.

Kibbe has a bachelor’s degree in public communication and graphic design from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York. She also has a master’s degree in human resource development from Florida State University.

Her previous experience includes serving as the public communications manager for the Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce; helping to develop a corporate brand identity and marketing plan for an architectural stone import company; and, writing copy, designing publications and handling media relations for St. Louis Community College and Wheelock College.

More recently, she was director of corporate training at Pasco-Hernando State College, and director of the Institute for Professional Development for Saint Leo University. Kibbe is an artist, too.

She joined The Laker/Lutz News to help small and large businesses with their marketing and advertising needs.

Kibbe can be reached by calling (352) 457-4464 (cell) or (813) 909-2800 (office) or by emailing .

New Wiregrass restaurant
St. Petersburg-based restaurant, Noble Crust, plans to open at The Shops at Wiregrass in late spring or early summer, according to Greg Lenners, general manager at Wiregrass.

The restaurant will be near Dillard’s and next to Pinchers Crab Shack on Paseo Drive.

“We’re continuing to look at restaurants to see what’s new out there,” Lenners said. “We thought this would be a good fit.”

Noble Crust will be about 3,200 square feet, with room for 170 seats.

The restaurant’s website says that Noble Crust partners Jeff Strouse, T.J. Thielbar and Tim Curci strive for a farm-to-table menu that blends Southern cooking with Italian flavors.

Lenners said the partners will rely on a prep-kitchen facility in Tampa to deliver fresh foods daily to their restaurants.

The St. Petersburg location earned a Golden Spoon award in 2015 from the magazine, Florida Trends.

Ribbon cutting for printing company
Architectural Signage & Printing will have a ribbon cutting on Feb. 9 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 6812 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The event is free.

For information, call the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 909-2722, email , or visit SignByAsap.com.

North Tampa chamber meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general meeting on Feb. 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Iavarone’s Steakhouse & Italian Grill, 3627 Humphrey St., in Tampa.

The cost is $25 (whether you eat or not), payable at the door by cash, check or credit card.

For information, call the chamber office at (813) 563-0180, or visit NorthTampaChamber.com.

Breakfast meeting
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on Feb. 14 at 7:30 a.m., at the Village Inn, at 5214 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Guest speaker will be Al Berry, Strawberry Festival director emeritus.

There will be door prizes.

For information, contact Chairman Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or , or Vice Chairwoman Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1149 or .