Business Digest

Marketing awards
The Pasco County Public Transportation Department earned two marketing awards from the Florida Public Transportation Association on Dec. 11, according to a Pasco County news release.

The department won first place for Electronic Media/Audio-Visual for a live-remote broadcast on Aug. 15 celebrating the inaugural bus ride of the new County Connector bus service on State Road 54. Local radio station, Hits 106, aired the broadcast.

A 30-second employee customer service video earned third place for Internal Employee Communications.

For information on bus routes, transportation news and schedules, visit Ridepcpt.com.

 

Liaison named
Joel Brown will serve as liaison between the Southwest Florida Water Management District (Swiftmud) and the county governments, municipalities and community organizations of Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties.

Brown is a graduate of the University of South Florida, where he majored in political science and minored in leadership studies. Previously, he worked as West Central Florida regional manager for Florida’s Chief Financial Officer Jeff Atwater, and the Department of Financial Services. He also served as district administrative assistant to the late U.S. Rep. Bill Young of Pinellas County.

Brown will work from Swiftmud’s Tampa office.

To contact Brown, call (813) 985-7481, ext. 2015, or email .

Food partners
Florida Hospital Center Ice entered an agreement to make US Foods the preferred food partner for the new ice rink and sports facility that will open Jan. 26, off State Road 56 near the Interstate 75 interchange.

US Foods is a foodservice distributor that provides food to a variety of facilities including Florida Hospital Center Ice, as well as independent and multi-unit restaurants, health care and hospitality businesses.

Florida Hospital Center Ice will have about 150,000 square feet of floor space to accommodate four ice rinks and a mini-rink. Z Mitch LLC invested about $28 million in the project.

Florida Hospital is the facility’s major sponsor and naming partner. The Tampa Bay Lightning is a program rink partner. Other sponsors include APH Stone Solutions, Bright House Networks, Buffalo Wild Wings, Busch Gardens Tampa, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida, DEX Imaging and The Toni Everett Co.

Lunch n learn
A Lunch N Learn Business Forum is scheduled for Jan. 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce Don Porter Boardroom, at 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Suite 105.

Guest speaker will be David C. Alvarez of DCA Media Consulting. He will offer tips on how to build your brand through social media.

The cost is $15 including lunch. Please RSVP, as seating is limited.

For information, visit WesleyChapelChamber.com, or call (813) 994-8534.

Law firm ribbon cutting
The Devolder Law Firm will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 19 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 8709 Hunters Green Drive, Suite 103, in New Tampa.

The event is free.

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

Spa ribbon cutting
The Cabana Spa will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 20 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at 27607 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel.

Light refreshments and giveaways will be provided.

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

Ribbon cutting
Go Craft Yourself will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 24 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at 103111 Cross Creek Blvd., Suite A, in New Tampa.

The event is free.

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

Chamber mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a “Cup of Joe” and a “No Agenda” mixer on Jan. 25 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the law firm of Lucas/Magazine, at 2533 Windguard Circle, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel.

This mixer takes place the last Wednesday of each month.

For information, call Elayne Bassinger at (813) 495-2336, or visit LucasMagazine.com.

New RaceTrac?
Owners of In Play LLC and Relin Brothers LLC are seeking a zoning change to clear the way for a Race Trac convenience store and gas station at the northeast corner of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard and Ehren Cutoff, according to county records.

The item is on the consent agenda of the Pasco County Planning Commission, which meets Jan. 11 at 1:30 p.m., at the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City.

Planning staff members recommend approval.

According to county records, the Race Trac Market Store No. 1221 would be about 5,400 square feet. There would be 16 gas pumps. The “build-out” for the project is scheduled for 2018.

Cycle training and anniversary
Cycle Quest is now leasing a space at VisionQuest Fitness Studio, at 24434 State Road 54, in Lutz. And, VisionQuest is celebrating its one-year anniversary.

Cycle Quest owner Dana Newberry began offering cycling classes in December for small groups, generally of six to nine bicycle riders. Private/buddy classes also are available for one to two riders.

Riders can bring their own bicycles or use one of Cycle Quest’s bicycles. Class packages, at varying prices, are available.

VisionQuest Fitness owner Dawn Mong opened her fitness studio in January 2016. The studio offers group classes, boot camps and personal training.

For information on cycling, call or text Newberry at (352) 518-1563, or sign up for classes with the free mobile application, Bookfit!

For information on VisionQuest Fitness, call or text (813) 546-4867, or use Bookfit! to sign up for classes.

Both also are on Facebook.

Job fair
Goodwill Industries-Suncoast Inc., is set to have a job fair on Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Goodwill Superstore, 2390 Willow Oak Drive in Wesley Chapel.

Goodwill is seeking sales associates, donations processing associates and janitorial staff.

Applicants can complete an application at SbsGoodwill.com before attending the fair, but walk-ins are welcome.

For information, visit Goodwill-suncoast.org.

General meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general meeting on Jan. 12 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 Jeff Ruby, founder and president of RedRock Leadership.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card or to the chamber office at by 5 p.m., on Jan. 10, 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.

Employment seminars
CareerSource Pasco Hernando will offer two one-hour seminars on job searches and writing resumes on Jan. 13, at 1500 Citrus Country Drive, Suite 303, in Dade City.

The first seminar is from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on EFM Essentials. The course will help people who are new to, or have limited experience with, the state’s job search engine. Workshop participants will learn to navigate key EFM functions including background, resume, job search, Virtual Recruiter, online training and self-assessments.

The second seminar is from 11 a.m. to noon, at the same address. It will offer tips on writing winning resumes to make a great first impression on employers.

For information and to register, visit CareersourcePascoHernando.com.

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, on Jan. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

The guest speaker will be Meghan Frisco of Computer Mentors.

The cost is $20 for chamber members, and $25 for non-members. Members pay $15 and non-members pay $20 if prepaid by Jan. 12.

For information, email Ignacio Ruiz at .

Business seminar
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will host a business seminar on Jan. 18 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., at its office on 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 105, Don Porter Boardroom, in Wesley Chapel.

Founder of Business Success Training Steve Black will explain How to Have the Best Year Ever in 2017.

The event is free but space is limited, so RSVP.

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

Lunch n learn
A Lunch N Learn Business Forum is scheduled for Jan. 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce Don Porter Boardroom, at 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Suite 105.

Guest speaker will be David C. Alvarez of DCA Media Consulting. He will offer tips on how to build your brand through social media.

The cost is $15 including lunch. Please RSVP, as seating is limited.

For information, visit WesleyChapelChamber.com, or call (813) 994-8534.

Ribbon cutting
The Devolder Law Firm will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 19 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 8709 Hunters Green Drive, Suite 103, in New Tampa.

The event is free.

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

Spa ribbon cutting
The Cabana Spa will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 20 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., at 27607 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel.

Light refreshments and giveaways will be offered.

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

Economic forecast luncheon
The Pasco Economic Development Corporation has scheduled its 2017 Economic Forecast Luncheon on Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Florida Hospital Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

The luncheon will feature Mark Vitner, senior economist at Wells Fargo, who will give a presentation of the regional economy and his forecast for the year.

Vitner regularly meets with business leaders throughout the country, as well as overseas. He is expected to discuss potential impacts on Pasco County and Florida — from changes in local and national leadership.

For information, visit PascoEDC.com.

Ready to work
CareerSource Pasco-Hernando can help job seekers show off their skills through the Florida Ready to Work program.

Earn a work credential by taking supervised assessments in Applied Mathematics, Reading for Information and Locating Information.

Enrollment is free. Each placement test in the process takes about 15 minutes and can be taken at any time from any computer, anywhere. Online Courseware is available to help improve scores and job skills, if needed.

Once the tests are taken, a proctor will complete approximately one-hour assessments on each test. With a score of at least three on each assessment, participants will receive a Florida Ready to Work Credential, signed by the Governor.

CareerSource Pasco-Hernando also can help with research on potential careers, and provide additional assistance in building job skills.

To contact the proctor, email , or call the East Pasco office at (813) 377-1300, ext. 3404.

For information, visit CareerSourcePascoHernando.com.

Network breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on Jan. 11 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., in the board room of the Student Community Center at Saint Leo University, 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.

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

Ribbon cutting
Sevelius Wealth Management of Raymond James will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 12 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 29145 Chapel Park Drive in Wesley Chapel.

The event is free.

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

Business seminar
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will host a business seminar on Jan. 18 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., at its office on 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 105, Don Porter Boardroom, in Wesley Chapel.

Founder of Business Success Training Steve Black will explain How to Have the Best Year Ever in 2017.

The event is free but space is limited, so RSVP.

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

Economic forecast luncheon
The Pasco Economic Development Corporation has scheduled its 2017 Economic Forecast Luncheon on Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Florida Hospital Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

The luncheon will feature Mark Vitner, senior economist at Wells Fargo, who will give a presentation of the regional economy and his forecast for the year.

Vitner regularly meets with business leaders throughout the country, as well as overseas. He is expected to discuss potential impacts on Pasco County and Florida — from changes in local and national leadership.

For information, visit PascoEDC.com.

Video training
Pasco County libraries are partnering with Lynda.com – an online platform owned by Linkedin – to provide full access to the company’s video library.

More than 4,000 video courses, taught by industry experts, are available. The courses explain Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel and Publisher; and, the Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Acrobat. Also available are courses on computer programming, photography skills, online marketing, business management and more.

Lynda.com offers various paid subscriptions, but Pasco library patrons can access the courses for free by going online and using their library cards to create a profile.

To sign up, visit Lynda.com/portal/sip?=pascolibraries.org.

For information, also visit PascoLibraries.org.

Pasco-Hernando SCORE seeks volunteers
The Pasco-Hernando chapter of SCORE, which is short for Service Corps of Retired Executives, is seeking volunteers to help guide local entrepreneurs start and manage new businesses.

The organization specifically is seeking individuals with expertise in these fields:

• Commercial Lender: A retired banker with experience in business loans, equipment loans, lines of credit, working capital loans and SBA (U.S. Small Business Administration) guidelines.
• Social Media Coordinator: Someone who demonstrates a strong working knowledge of social media and website optimization.
• Nonprofit Mentor: Someone with prior nonprofit expertise with existing and start-up organizations.

SCORE — founded in 1964 — is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, and has 300-plus chapters with more than 13,000 volunteers throughout the United States.

Ribbon cutting
Paramount Lebanese Kitchen will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 18 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 18089 Highwood Preserve Parkway in New Tampa.

The chain restaurant offers “farm to table” casual dining and Mediterranean cuisine, according to its website – ParamountFineFoodsUsa.com.

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

Business seminar
A free seminar on How to Develop an Internship Program will be presented on Jan. 19 at 9 a.m., by Able Trust at Pasco-Hernando State College, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Registration and breakfast will be at 8:30 a.m. The seminar begins at 9 a.m.

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

Ribbon cutting
Chase Bank will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 19 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at 28470 State Road 54, in Wesley Chapel.

The event is free.

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

New officers
The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club celebrated at a Christmas luncheon and installed officers for 2017.

Karin D’Amico is president and Annette Bellingar is first vice president. Past President Kay Taylor was named “Volunteer of the Year” for her service to the club and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs.

The club also donated and delivered Christmas gifts to residents of two area domestic violence shelters.

For membership information, visit GFWCLutzLandoLakesWomansClub.org.

Networking breakfast
The Wednesday Morning Network Group will meet Jan. 4 at 7:30 a.m., at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-BQ, at 3116 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Each attendee will be able to present a 30-second pitch. The $7 cost for members and $10 for non-members includes breakfast.

For information, contact the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 909-2722, or email .

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Jan. 6 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The women share their talents, build relationships and share their resources with other women in business.

Guest speaker will be Stephanie Stevens. Her presentation will be “My Silent Partner-Identity Theft Protection.”

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

Please register at Women-n-charge.com.

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

Membership meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a membership meeting on Jan. 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Harbor Terrace Restaurant, at 19502 Heritage Harbor Parkway in Lutz.

Members and guests are welcome.

The cost is $20 if you RSVP by Jan. 5, or $25 at the door.

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

Ribbon cutting
Go Craft Yourself will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 10 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 10311 Cross Creek Blvd., Suite A, in Tampa.

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

Job fair
Goodwill Industries-Suncoast Inc., will have a job fair on Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Goodwill Superstore, 2390 Willow Oak Drive in Wesley Chapel.

Goodwill is seeking sales associates and donations processing associates, as well as janitorial staff members.

Applicants are urged to complete an application at SBSGoodwill.com prior to the job fair. However, walk-ins are welcome.

Goodwill is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer and a drug-free workplace. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to help people achieve their full potential through the dignity and power of work. Donated goods sold at retail stores helps support Goodwill’s services in 10 counties in West Central Florida, including employment services, training and job placement for people with disabilities, affordable apartment communities for seniors and people with disabilities, and community corrections programs.

For information, visit Goodwill-suncoast.org.

General meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general membership meeting on Jan. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Iavarone’s Steakhouse & Italian Grill, 3627 W. Humphrey St., in Tampa.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card or to the chamber office at by 5 p.m., on Jan. 10, 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.

Economic forecast luncheon
The Pasco Economic Development Corporation has scheduled its 2017 Economic Forecast Luncheon on Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Florida Hospital Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

The luncheon will feature Mark Vitner, senior economist at Wells Fargo, who will give a presentation of the regional economy and his forecast for the year.

Vitner regularly meets with business leaders throughout the country, as well as overseas. He is expected to discuss potential impacts on Pasco County and Florida — from changes in local and national leadership.

For information, visit PascoEDC.com.

Video training
Pasco County libraries are partnering with Lynda.com – an online platform owned by Linkedin – to provide full access to the company’s video library.

More than 4,000 video courses, taught by industry experts, are available. The courses explain Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel and Publisher; and, the Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Acrobat. Also available are courses on computer programming, photography skills, online marketing, business management and more.

Lynda.com offers various paid subscriptions, but Pasco library patrons can access the courses for free by going online and using their library cards to create a profile.

To sign up, visit Lynda.com/portal/sip?=pascolibraries.org.

For information, also visit PascoLibraries.org.

 

Video training
Pasco County libraries are partnering with Lynda.com – an online platform owned by Linkedin – to provide full access to the company’s video library.

More than 4,000 video courses, taught by industry experts, are available. The courses explain Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel and Publisher; and, the Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and Acrobat. Also available are courses on computer programming, photography skills, online marketing, business management and more.

Lynda.com offers various paid subscriptions, but Pasco library patrons can access the courses for free by going online and using their library cards to create a profile.

To sign up, visit Lynda.com/portal/sip?=pascolibraries.org.

For information, also visit PascoLibraries.org.

Job fair
The Hilton Garden Inn, 2155 Northpointe Blvd., in Lutz, will host a job fair on Dec. 21 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hotel is expected to open in February.

Positions available include: bartender, servers, maintenance supervisor, executive housekeeper, housekeeping, chef, shuttle driver-houseman, front desk, sales and catering manager, and banquet captain set-up.

For information, visit TampaSuncoastParkway.HGI.com.

Chamber mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a “Cup of Joe” and a “No Agenda” mixer on Dec. 28 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the law firm of Lucas/Magazine, at 2533 Windguard Circle, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel.

This mixer takes place the last Wednesday of each month.

For information, call Elayne Bassinger at (813) 495-2336, or visit Lucas/Magazine.com.

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Jan. 6 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The women share their talents, build relationships and share their resources with other women in business.

Guest speaker will be Stephanie Stevens. Her presentation will be “My Silent Partner-Identity Theft Protection.”

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

Please register at Women-n-charge.com.

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

Spreading peanut butter and good cheer
The Tampa Bay Builders Association is spreading good cheer and peanut butter for a good cause. The association’s Sales and Marketing Council has set a holiday challenge to build 1,000 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at the association’s downtown headquarters, 512 E. Kennedy Blvd. Volunteers will work in shifts on Dec. 21.

The sandwiches are being made to support the nonprofit GRAB Tomorrow – PB&J for Tampa Bay.

The builder’s association’s Sales and Marketing Council received the National Home Builder’s Gold Award for charity work it has done earlier this year.

For information, visit TBBA.net.

Ribbon cutting
Go Craft Yourself will have a ribbon cutting on Jan. 10 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 10311 Cross Creek Blvd., Suite A, in Tampa.

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

General meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general membership meeting on Jan. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Iavarone’s Steakhouse & Italian Grill, 3627 W. Humphrey St., in Tampa.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card or to the chamber office at by 5 p.m., on Jan. 10, 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.

Economic forecast luncheon
The Pasco Economic Development Corporation has scheduled its 2017 Economic Forecast Luncheon on Feb. 3, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Florida Hospital Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.

The luncheon will feature Mark Vitner, senior economist at Wells Fargo, who will give a presentation of the regional economy and his forecast for the year.

Vitner regularly meets with business leaders throughout the country, as well as overseas. He is expected to discuss potential impacts on Pasco County and Florida — from changes in local and national leadership.

For information, visit PascoEDC.com.

Pasco-Hernando SCORE seeks volunteers
The Pasco-Hernando chapter of SCORE, which is short for Service Corps of Retired Executives, is seeking volunteers to help guide local entrepreneurs start and manage new businesses.

The organization specifically is seeking individuals with expertise in these fields:

• Commercial Lender: A retired banker with experience in business loans, equipment loans, lines of credit, working capital loans and SBA (U.S. Small Business Administration) guidelines.
• Social Media Coordinator: Someone who demonstrates a strong working knowledge of social media and website optimization.
• Nonprofit Mentor: Someone with prior nonprofit expertise with existing and start-up organizations.

SCORE — founded in 1964 — is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, and has 300-plus chapters with more than 13,000 volunteers throughout the United States.

The mentoring program offers a chance for retired professionals to connect with fellow business owners and pass along their knowledge and experiences to the next generation of entrepreneurs in the community.

It also enables entrepreneurs to have a greater opportunity for success in their venture, as they benefit from their mentors.

For information about volunteer opportunities or SCORE training sessions, visit PascoHernando.Score.org.

Naming contest
The City of Zephyrhills needs a name for its new festival venue in time for the annual Pigz in Z’hills BBQ & Blues Festival on Jan. 21.

The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce is launching a naming contest for the event site, which features a 20-by-40-foot stage, and 50 spaces equipped with water and electric outlets. There also is additional space for free-standing vendors, car shows, business expos and children’s activities.

Deadline for name submissions is Jan 6. The name may reflect the purpose, locations and history of the site. However, double entendres won’t be considered. Also, the name shouldn’t focus only on barbecue.

The venue is located at 5200 Airport Road, and will be operated by the city, which contributed $30,000 to its construction. Florida Hospital donated $30,000 to build a permanent stage.

The site will host a variety of events and fundraisers organized by nonprofit organizations such as the Rotary Club of Zephyrhills, Thomas Promise Foundation, Ride for Hospice, and Paulie Palooza.

Other potential events could be the renewal of the Zephyrhills Celtic Festival and a balloon fest.

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

Grand opening
Longhorn Steakhouse had a ribbon cutting and grand opening on Nov. 14 for its new restaurant, located in front of Tampa Premium Outlets in Lutz. The steakhouse, located at 2648 Creek Grass Way, is the newest eatery among several recent arrivals including Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Chick-fil-a, Culver’s and BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse.

The approximately 5,700-square-foot restaurant seats about 200 guests. It is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The restaurant participates in Longhorn’s Harvest Program and donates unused, wholesome foods on a weekly basis to area charities or food banks.

For information, visit LonghornSteakhouse.com.

Trade mission
A group of 36 local business leaders flew to the Dominican Republic on Dec. 5 for a multi-day sales mission, hosted by the Tampa Bay Export Alliance, according to a press release from the Tampa Bay Export Alliance.

For the first time, staff members of the Pasco Economic Development Council, including President Bill Cronin, were among those participating in the TBEA mission.

The TBEA has hosted several missions including recent trips to Costa Rica and Canada. The alliance began in partnership with the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation, and Pinellas County Economic Development.

“The Tampa Bay region is stronger when we all work together, and I am confident the partnership between Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough will boost international trade, attract foreign investment and create opportunities for our workplace throughout the great region,” said Cronin, in a written statement from the press release.

The export mission to the Dominican Republic is sponsored by Tampa International Airport, Port Tampa Bay and Enterprise Florida.

During the visit, delegates received a commercial briefing and a “Doing Business in the Caribbean” briefing from the U.S. Embassy officials.

Thirteen companies will participate in the Gold Key Program, facilitated by the U.S. Commercial Service, which provides one-on-one meetings with companies located in the Dominican Republic.

For information, visit TampaBayExportAlliance.com.

Ribbon cutting
Happy Feet Plus will have a ribbon cutting on Dec. 14, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 1051 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The free event will have beverages, light refreshments and prize drawings.

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

Lunch n learn
A Lunch N Learn Business Forum is scheduled for Dec. 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce Don Porter Boardroom, at 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Suite 105.

Guest speaker will be Bilal Saleh, principal partner in E-nor and a mobile industry expert. Saleh will discuss “online market optimization,” and provide tips on improving online exposure and focusing on your target audience.

The cost is $15 including lunch. Please RSVP, as seating is limited.

For information, visit WesleyChapelChamber.com, or call (813) 994-8534.

Ribbon cutting
Coldwell Banker, F. I. Grey & Sons, Residential Inc., will have a ribbon cutting and grand opening on Dec. 15 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 24620 State Road 54 in Lutz.

There will be a drawing for prizes.

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

Job fair
The Hilton Garden Inn, 2155 Northpointe Blvd., in Lutz, will host a job fair on Dec. 21 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The hotel is expected to open in February. Positions available include: bartender, servers, maintenance supervisor, executive housekeeper, housekeeping, chef, shuttle driver-houseman, front desk, sales and catering manager, and banquet captain set-up.

For information, visit TampaSuncoastParkway.HGI.com.

Pasco-Hernando SCORE seeks volunteers
The Pasco-Hernando chapter of SCORE, which is short for Service Corps of Retired Executives, is seeking volunteers to help guide local entrepreneurs start and manage new businesses.

The organization specifically is seeking individuals with expertise in these fields:

• Commercial Lender: A retired banker with experience in business loans, equipment loans, lines of credit, working capital loans and SBA (U.S. Small Business Administration) guidelines.
• Social Media Coordinator: Someone who demonstrates a strong working knowledge of social media and website optimization.
• Nonprofit Mentor: Someone with prior nonprofit expertise with existing and start-up organizations.

SCORE — founded in 1964 — is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, and has 300-plus chapters with more than 13,000 volunteers throughout the United States.

The mentoring program offers a chance for retired professionals to connect with fellow business owners and pass along their knowledge and experiences to the next generation of entrepreneurs in the community.

It also enables entrepreneurs to have a greater opportunity for success in their venture, as they benefit from their mentors.

For information about volunteer opportunities or SCORE training sessions, visit PascoHernando.Score.org.

Busch Gardens partners with ice rink
Busch Gardens and Florida Hospital Center Ice are partners in a multi-year agreement for Busch Gardens to be the exclusive sponsor of the main National Hockey League-size rink at the new sports complex under construction in Wesley Chapel, according to a news release from Florida Hospital Center Ice.

“As Busch Gardens Tampa is one of the top theme parks in the world, and is synonymous with family fun and entertainment, we thought they were a natural partner for our new facility,” said Gordie Zimmermann, in a written statement from the press release.

Zimmermann is Florida Hospital Center Ice’s managing partner.

Florida Hospital Center Ice is billed as the largest sports facility in the southeastern United States. It is under construction at the Interstate 75 and State Road 56 interchange. When completed by the end of the year, the facility will be about 150,000 square feet and have four ice rinks, plus a mini rink.

In addition to the center ice logo, Busch Gardens also will be branded on all four rink dasher boards, and have digital advertising throughout the facility. This includes the main National Hockey League video walls.

The theme park also will have concourse signage in the form of a seasonal wall sign and a fixed sign/kiosk in the main lobby.

Other advertising sponsors include Florida Hospital, Tampa Bay Lightning, Bright House Networks, Coca-Cola Beverages Florida and Buffalo Wild Wings.

New restaurant
Union 72 Barbecue had a grand opening on Veterans Day weekend at The Shops at Wiregrass, at 2000 Piazza Ave., Suite 150, next to The Brass Tap.

The new eatery is a chef-inspired barbecue restaurant with an updated take on sauces, rubs and pairings to please barbecue aficionados. It is open for lunch and dinner, Monday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Owners Jeff Martin and Bharat Chhabria joined with Pitmaster Geoff Zukosky to deliver a new dining choice at the outdoor mall in Wesley Chapel.

Menu items include slow-cooked meats, such as “The Ribs,” which are cooked Memphis-style and marinated in a house-made rub. Other dishes include “The Conquistador” sandwich filled with a Spanish-spiced slow-smoked pork, pulled, and topped with chimichurri, caramelized onions and a fried egg.

Union72 offers take-outs, and beginning in December, catering and online ordering.

Martin is the founder of The Brass Tap. Chhabria owns several Brass Tap franchises.

Retirement seminar
Primerica and MetLife will host a free seminar on retirement planning on Dec. 8 from 6:30 p.m. to 6:55 p.m., at Wisteria Plaza, 6739 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

Guest speaker will be Emily Schultz of MetLife.

Seating is limited.

RSVP by calling (813) 929-7722.

General meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general membership meeting on Dec. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Iavarone’s Steakhouse & Italian Grill, 3617 W. Humphrey St., in Tampa.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card or to the chamber office at  by 5 p.m., on Dec. 6, 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.

Software workshop
CareerSource Pasco Hernando and Access Computer Training LLC will host a free Microsoft Word Workshop on Dec. 13 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at 15000 Citrus Country Drive in Dade City.

Workshops are fully equipped with computers and Microsoft Office. Seats are limited and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

For information, call Access Computer Training at (855) 953-2764, or visit CareerSourcePascoHernando.com/events.

Ribbon cutting
Happy Feet Plus will have a ribbon cutting on Dec. 14 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 1051 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The free event will have beverages, light refreshments and prize drawings.

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

Network breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on Dec. 14 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Wesley Chapel Toyota, 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.

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

Veterans find jobs
CareerSource Pasco Hernando and Pasco-Hernando State College assisted nearly 20 veterans and their families on Nov. 10 at Paychecks for Patriots, a job fair that brought local employers together with local veterans.

The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, the Florida National Guard and the Florida Department of Veteran Affairs also partnered with CareerSource Florida at similar Paychecks for Patriots’ job fairs statewide during the week of Veterans Day, Nov. 7 to Nov.11.

More than 1,700 military and veteran candidates and their family members who participated in past events have gained employment as a result of relationships formed during Paychecks for Patriots.

Locally, CareerSource Pasco Hernando matched veterans with employers who can use the skills, knowledge and attributes gained by veterans during military service.

For information on events and companies that participated in the hiring fairs, visit Paychecks for Patriots at FloridaJobs.org/paychecksforpatriots.

Veterans or their family members interested in pursuing Florida career opportunities who were unable to attend a Paychecks for Patriots job fair can view and apply for available positions online at EmployFlorida.com. Also, a special employment portal for Florida veterans is available at Veterans.employflorida.com. There are positions and resources geared toward veterans.

New hire at Saint Leo
Greg Temnick is the new vice president of integrated marketing for Saint Leo University.

Temnick will be responsible for the marketing and branding efforts for Saint Leo. The university educates students – both traditional age and adult learners – at its campus in east Pasco County, and through more than 40 education centers and offices located in seven states, including the Center for Online Learning.

Temnick previously served as senior director of Brand Strategies for ACT Inc., a national college admissions testing company. He also served as vice president of advertising and marketing for the Center for Excellence in Higher Education; vice president of marketing and creative services for the Career Education Corp.; and, vice president of marketing and advertising for the Educational Management Corp.

In those roles, he led creative services for such institutions as the Art Institutes, Argosy University, Sanford Brown, Colorado Technical University, International Academy of Design and Technology, and Stevens-Henager College.

Temnick earned two bachelor of arts degrees from Adrian College in Adrian, Michigan. He is a member of the American Marketing Association.

New Cricket Wireless
Cricket Wireless opened a new store at 27616 Wesley Chapel Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The store is designed to give customers a simplified, user-friendly experience while shopping for Cricket’s products and monthly plans.

Cricket, which is a subsidiary of AT&T, offers a no-annual contract, with plans starting at $30 a month including taxes and fees. Customers can bring their own phones or check out Cricket’s deals on smartphones from Samsung, HTC, Motorola, ZTE and more.

Hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

For information, visit CricketWireless.com.

Volunteers needed
The Wesley Chapel Land O’ Lakes Satellite Rotary is seeking businesses and organizations to participate in the Heritage Holiday Card Walk, which will be on display from Dec. 3 to Jan. 7, at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The event will have 30 full-size cards on display.

Card designs can be made of plywood or purchased from a local sign company. Cards must be approximately 6 feet by 4 feet to 8 feet by 4 feet in size and framed to stand securely with ground posts.

There will be electrical outlets if you choose to light your card.

Cards can be placed on Dec. 3 between 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.

For information, call (813) 996-3011.

One-year anniversary
Totally Polished will have a ribbon cutting, one-year anniversary customer appreciation day on Nov. 26 from noon to 4 p.m., at 1532 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The free event will feature catering and cocktails by Livy O’s, drawings for LuLaRoe clothes, body wraps and other services. Special discounts will be offered. There also will be free services including mini-facials and consultations, scalp and chair massages, and lip or chin wax.

Vendors also will participate.

For information, visit GoGetPolished.com, or call (813) 330-2901.

Chamber mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a “Cup of Joe” and a “No Agenda” mixer on Nov. 30 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the law firm of Lucas/Magazine, at 2533 Windguard Circle, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel.

This mixer takes place the last Wednesday of each month.

For information, call Elayne Bassinger at (813) 495-2336, or visit LucasMagazine.com.

Holiday ribbon cutting
Esthetics813 will have a Holiday Spa Party, Shopping Event and Ribbon Cutting on Nov. 30 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 2748 Windguard Circle, Suite 102, in Wesley Chapel.

The event is free. Toys and gifts will be collected for donation to the Shriners Hospital for Children.

Come enjoy food, wine, fun with friends, and special deals on beauty and wellness services.

Beginning at 4 p.m., door prizes will be given away on the hour.

Four grand-prize package winners will be selected at 7:30 p.m.

For information, call (813) 484-9641.

Ribbon cutting
Happy Feet Plus will have a ribbon cutting on Dec. 1, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 1051 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Enjoy beverages, light refreshment and drawings.

For information, email WesleyChapelChamber.com.

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Dec. 2 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:14 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive, in Tampa.

The luncheon will be the Annual Christmas Party and Holiday Gift Exchange. Come network and play the White Elephant Game, with gifts $10 and under.

Share talents, business relationships and resources with other women in business.

The cost is $15 for members and $18 for guests.

Register at Women-n-charge.com.

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

Business breakfast
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Dec. 6 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College, Porter Campus, at 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Bright House Networks Enterprise Solutions is the sponsor.

The cost is $15 for members who register by Dec. 2, and $20 thereafter. Non-members pay $20.

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

Volunteers needed
The Wesley Chapel Land O’ Lakes Satellite Rotary is seeking businesses and organizations to participate in the Heritage Holiday Card Walk, from Dec. 3 to Jan. 7, at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The event will have 30 full-size cards on display.

Card designs can be made of plywood or purchased from a local sign company. Cards must be approximately 6 feet by 4 feet to 8 feet by 4 feet in size and framed to stand securely with ground posts.

There will be electrical outlets if you choose to light your card.

Cards can be placed on Dec. 3 between 3:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.

A contest will take place for first, second and third place during the Traditions in the Park event on Dec. 3.

For information, call (813) 996-3011.

Pizza pie
Uncle Maddio’s Pizza opened its first Tampa area restaurant in the Northgate Square shopping plaza, at 3949 Van Dyke Road, in Lutz, according to a news release from Atlanta-based Hartman Public Relations.

The franchise owners are Lutz residents Ada and Mike Mateo.

The restaurant is more than 3,500 square feet with a 300-square-foot patio for outdoor seating. The Lutz location is the first of five Uncle Maddio’s planned for the Tampa area.

The retired couple chose a location next to Publix where many Lutz residents shop, and, according to the press release, they see opportunities for “fast-casual pizza” in the Tampa area.

The restaurant allows guests to create their own pizza, cooked in fast-baked ovens, and delivered to their table in about eight minutes.

Guests can choose among four sizes, three crusts, including a gluten-free option, and top their pie off with any of 48 toppings, six sauces, 27 vegetables and 15 meats.

Everything is fresh and made in the restaurant.

For information, visit Facebook.com/UncleMaddiosLutz or UncleMaddios.com.

Lunch n learn
A Lunch N Learn Business Forum is scheduled for Nov. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce Don Porter Boardroom, at 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Suite 105.

The forum is hosted by HumanIT, and the topic will be “Protecting Your Business from Hacking Threats.”

The cost is $15 including lunch. Please RSVP, as seating is limited.

For information, visit WesleyChapelChamber.com, or call (813) 994-8534.

Network luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a chamber network luncheon on Nov. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Beef O’ Brady’s, 8801 Himes Ave. (at Himes Avenue and Busch Boulevard), in Tampa.

Order from the lunch menu or regular menu. Minimum payment of $5 is required if you don’t order food, and you must pay for your drinks.

For information, email , or call Keller Williams Tampa Properties at (813) 864-6370.

One-year anniversary
Totally Polished will have a ribbon cutting, one-year anniversary customer appreciation day on Nov. 26 from noon to 4 p.m., at 1532 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The free event will feature catering and cocktails by Livy O’s, drawings for LuLaRoe clothes, body wraps and other services. Special discounts will be offered. There also will be free services including mini-facials and consultations, scalp and chair massages, and lip or chin wax.

Vendors also will participate.

For information, visit GoGetPolished.com, or call (813) 330-2901.

Holiday ribbon cutting
Esthetics813 will have a Holiday Spa Party, Shopping Event and Ribbon Cutting on Nov. 30 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 2748 Windguard Circle, Suite 102, in Wesley Chapel.

The event is free. Toys and gifts will be collected for donation to the Shriners Hospital for Children.

Come enjoy food, wine, fun with friends, and fabulous deals on beauty and wellness services.

Beginning at 4 p.m., door prizes will be given away on the hour. At 7:30 p.m., four grand-prize package winners will be selected.

For information, call (813) 484-9641.

Ribbon cutting
Happy Feet Plus will have a ribbon cutting on Dec. 1 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 1051 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Enjoy beverages, light refreshment and drawings.

For information, email WesleyChapelChamber.com.