Business Digest

Goin’ Postal Wesley Chapel
Tom Geng is the owner of a new Goin’ Postal shop at 2653 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Suite 108-A, in Wesley Chapel.

Geng, and his wife Lynn, relocated from Pennsylvania to Pasco County nearly 30 years ago. He worked as a chef manager and Pasco County school employee. She worked as a registered nurse.

The Goin’ Postal shop in Wesley Chapel will offer mail and shipping services, stamps, lamination, personal and business mail boxes, copying, faxing, packaging, gifts, office supplies, passport photos and a Notary Public.

Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The business is closed on weekends.

For information, call (813) 973-7781, or email .

Connerton mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a chamber mixer, hosted at the master-planned community of Connerton, on Oct. 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 21100 Fountain Garden Way in Land O’ Lakes.

The event is free.

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

Economic briefing
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly economic development briefing on Oct. 27 at 11:30 a.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa.

The guest speaker will be Craig J. Richard, president and chief executive officer of Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Council.

The $15 cost includes a buffet lunch.

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

Furniture shop
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host the ribbon cutting for Gulfside Zephyrhills Furniture Shoppe on Oct. 28 at 10 a.m., at 36504 State Road 54, in Zephyrhills.

The specialty thrift store opened in mid-October. It is in addition to five Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes that showcase furniture, art, home furnishings and appliances.

All proceeds from the new store will benefit Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care, and help support patients and their families.

Donations of furniture, home furnishings, artwork and appliances can be made during store hours, Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gulfside Hospice began in Pasco County in 1988, and serves about 350 patients daily. It employs more than 250 professionals and relies on more than 500 volunteers. The new store primarily will be run by volunteers.

For information, call (800) 561-4883, or visit GHPPC.org.

Social mixer
SMARTstart Incubator will have a 5:01 Friday Mixer on Oct. 28 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 15000 Citrus Country Drive in Dade City.

Light refreshments will be provided. Bring your own beverage.

For information, call (352) 437-4861, or visit SMARTstartPasco.com.

Business breakfast
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Nov. 1 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College, Porter Campus, at 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Advisor Magazine is the sponsor.

Guest speakers will be Pasco County School Superintendent Kurt Browning and Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco.

The cost is $15 for members who register by Oct. 28 and $20 thereafter. Non-members pay $20.

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

Dual ribbon cuttings
The Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will host a ribbon cutting on Nov. 3 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., for S.G.D. Communications Inc., at 5854 Argerian Drive, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel.

Next door, in Suite 103, an open house and ribbon cutting for the expansion of Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers Wesley Chapel, also will be held Nov. 3 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The events are free.

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

Hurricane relief

Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are aiding business owners, as well as residents, in the wake of Hurricane Hermine.

The teams are made up of disaster specialists from the Florida Department of Emergency Management and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. They are easily identified by their photo identifications, and FDEM and FEMA uniforms. People should ask for photo identification before providing personal information.

Homeowners, renters and business owners affected by Hurricane Hermine from Aug. 31 to Sept. 11 in eight area counties, including Pasco County, are eligible to register for federal assistance.

To register, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, or call the FEMA helpline at (800) 621-3362. People with hearing disabilities may call TTY (800) 462-7585. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 10 pm., seven days a week. Assistance is available in multiple languages.

Business owners can complete an electronic loan application on the U.S. Small Business Administration’s secure website, DisasterLoan.sba.gov/ela.

Questions can be answered by calling the SBA disaster customer service center at (800) 659-2955/TTY (800) 877-8339, or visiting SBA.gov./disaster.

Network luncheon

The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a chamber network luncheon on Oct. 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Beef O’ Brady’s, at 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.

Grand opening

Advantage Real Estate will have a grand opening on Oct. 20 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 3948 Lake Padgett Drive in Land O’ Lakes.

A ribbon cutting will be at 5:30 p.m.

The event is free. Guests will enjoy food and beverages, including a wine tasting by Land O’ Lakes Winery.

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

Business forum

A Lunch N Learn Business Forum is scheduled for Oct. 20 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 Cindy Moran, a consultant with Predictive Results. Her topic will be “How to Attract, Hire and Retain the Best People.”

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

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

Senior living

Angels Senior Living Idlewild will have a grand opening and ribbon cutting on Oct. 22 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., at The Lodge of Idlewild, 18440 Exciting Idlewild Blvd.

Featured guest will be legendary singer Pat Boone.

The event is free. There will be hors ‘d oeuvres and live entertainment.

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

Breakfast meeting

The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on Oct. 25 at 7:30 a.m., at the Fresh Market Café, at 5518 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Guest speaker is Carol Scheckler, president of the Samaritan Project of Zephyrhills Inc.

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

Chamber mixer

The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a “Cup of Joe” and a “No Agenda” mixer on Oct. 26 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., at the law firm of Lucas/Magazine, at 2533 Windguard Circle, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel.

This mixer is held the last Wednesday of each month.

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

Connerton mixer

The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a chamber mixer, hosted at the master-planned community of Connerton, on Oct. 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 21100 Fountain Garden Way in Land O’ Lakes.

The event is free.

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

Economic briefing

The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly economic development briefing on Oct. 27 at 11:30 a.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa.

The guest speaker will be Craig J. Richard, president and chief executive officer of Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Council.

The $15 cost includes a buffet lunch.

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

 

New real estate office
Coldwell Banker F.I. Grey & Son Residential opened an office in the Cypress Creek Professional Park, at 24620 State Road 54 in Lutz, according to a news release from the New Port Richey-based real estate firm.

Coldwell Banker is the largest and oldest real estate franchise in the nation, and globally. Coldwell Banker F.I. Grey & Son Residential has served homeowners for more than 90 years.

William Bunting will be the managing broker at the new location, which will serve the Central Pasco area including Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel. Greg Armstrong will remain as managing broker in New Port Richey.

For information, call (813) 575-2464.

Seasonal jobs
JCPenney is hiring 500 seasonal employees in the Tampa area, including positions at its store at The Shops at Wiregrass.

A variety of jobs are available including cashier, replenishment specialist, merchandise support specialist and more.

Seasonal employees are eligible for a full employee discount of up to 25 percent on merchandise, as well as flexible holiday schedules.

Hiring is underway, and will continue through the holiday season. Applicants can apply at an applicant kiosk at any JCPenney store or online at JCPcareers.com.

For information, call (972) 431-3400, or email .

Sponsors needed
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce is seeking sponsors for the 23rd Annual Flapjack 5K and 1 Mile Run on Dec. 11 from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center, at 3032 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.

The following sponsorships are available: corporate, for $500; gold, for $400; silver, for $225; bronze, for $125; and goodie bag item, for $50.

The annual event will be in memory of Kris Keppel.

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

General meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have a general membership meeting on Oct. 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Iavarone’s Steakhouse & Italian Grill, 3617 W. Humphrey St., in Tampa.

Guest speaker will be Lee Kair, federal security director at Tampa International Airport. He is the airport’s senior official with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with a credit card or to the chamber office at by 5 p.m., on Oct. 10, at the discounted rate of $20 (whether you eat or not).

Registration after that date and at the door is $25, by cash, check or credit card.

To register, visit NorthTampaChamber.com/NTCC-Calendar.

Jobs available
All Target stores will have in-store hiring events on Oct. 14 and Oct. 15. Stop by between noon and 6 p.m., to meet the team and learn about available positions.

Be prepared to talk about yourself. There may be opportunities to interview on the spot.

Area stores in Pasco County include stores at Mitchell Ranch Plaza, 2900 Little Road in Trinity; 1040 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz; and, 1201 County Road 581 in Wesley Chapel.

Apply in advance, also, online at Target.com/careers.

Hispanic business luncheon
The Hispanic Business Leaders luncheon will be on Oct. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. The event is hosted by the Hispanic Business Leaders of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce. Meetings are conducted in English.

Guest speaker will be Jose Peralta, a physician with Premier Community Healthcare Group in Dade City.

The cost is $20 for chamber members and $25 for non-members, but $15 for members and $20 for non-members, if paid by Oct. 13.

For information, contact .

Community grants
The Allstate Foundation gave $1,000 grants to benefit nonprofits supported by five Allstate insurance agents in Pasco County, according to a press release from Allstate.

The agents and the nonprofits that will receive the grants are:
Craig and Michael Arndt, both of Lutz – Pediatric Cancer Foundations Inc., in Tampa
Lisette Fernandez, of Lutz – FOOT Foundation in Odessa and Sunrise of Pasco County Inc., in Dade City
Stephen Ward, in Trinity, and Mo Ward, in New Port Richey – Pasco Kids First Inc., in New Port Richey

The nonprofits are among more than 3,500 organizations that will receive approximately $7.5 million from The Allstate Foundation Helping Hands in the Community grant program. The grants support nonprofits focused on powering youth, teen safe driving, disaster preparedness, hunger and other causes.

In the past 20 years, Allstate employees, agency owners and staff members donated more than $368 million and more than 4 million volunteer hours to charities. And, in March 2016, 63 percent of Allstate employees participated in the Bring Out the Good Month 2016 workplace giving programs. The programs collected more than $7.1 million to benefit more than 8,800 nonprofits nationwide.

Spa opens in Lutz
The Caribbean Mystique Massage & Wellness Spa is moving to the Sienna Village Professional Center, at 2435 Brunello Trace in Lutz, according to a news release from Larry Vershel Communications Inc.

Theresa Margaris, a transaction specialist with Hold-Thyssen Inc., brokered the lease agreement with Sienna Village I LLC, on behalf of the spa’s owners.

Caribbean Mystique Massage & Wellness Spa is expanding from its current location in Tampa. The spa recreates a virtual island destination for customers, giving them a calm and tranquil experience.

Hold-Thyssen Inc., provides commercial property as well as leasing and management services to institutional and private investors nationwide. The 40-year-old firm serves more than 100 commercial properties across the country.

Small business seminars
The Zephyrhills Public Library and SCORE are partnering to offer two free small business seminars

The first class on “Using the Internet in Your Business” will be Nov. 3 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills. It will explain how a website can enhance your business. Participants will be shown an eight-step process of activities on how to use technology to promote your business.

The instructor will be Jim Karam.

The second class will be on “Marketing to Grow Your Business” on Nov. 8 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., also at the Zephyrhills library.

The class will focus on how to grow your business by using an audit that emphasizes planning, marketing and human resources. Learn what works and doesn’t work, how to write a sales and marketing plan, what you can learn from competitors, and best advertising and promotional practices.

The instructor will be Jack Grise.

Instructional handouts and materials will be provided to seminar participants.

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

Chamber mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a free mixer on Sept. 28 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 2316 Via Bella Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

Sponsors are Terra Bella and K Hovnanian Homes.

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

Computer workshop
CareerSource Pasco Hernando and Access Computer Training LLC will have a Word workshop on Oct. 4 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the Dade City Business Center, 15000 Citrus Country Drive, third floor, in Dade City.

Fully equipped computers and Microsoft Office will be provided for this free workshop.

Seats are limited and class registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.

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

Business breakfast
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Oct. 4 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 Network Enterprise Solutions is the sponsor.

The cost is $15 for members who register by Sept. 30 and $20 thereafter. Non-members pay $20.

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

Networking breakfast
The Wednesday Morning Networking Group will meet Oct. 5 at 7:30 a.m., at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-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 .

Business expo
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have a “Get Down to Business Expo & Lunch” on Oct. 5 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Saddlebrook Resort in the Royal Palm Ballroom, 5700 Saddlebrook Way, in Wesley Chapel.

The exhibit hall will be open from 11 a.m. to noon, and from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Lunch and a keynote presentation will be at noon.

Keynote speaker is Jayne Jenkins, an executive coach and strengths coach.

General admission to the event is $50, which includes the exhibit hall, keynote speaker and lunch. A VIP ticket, which costs $80, also includes a personal assessment and a ticket to a VIP meet and greet. Tables also are available for $1,000.

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

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Oct. 7 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch and time to network.

Guest speaker is Madonna Jervis Wise, who will discuss her latest book, “Wesley Chapel: Images of America.” Also, checks for $1,000 each will be presented to A Kid’s Place and Hope Children’s Home.

The cost is $15 for members, and $18 for all guests. Please register at Women-n-Charge.com.

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

County job fair
Hillsborough County Commissioner Sandy Murman, in partnership with CareerSource Tampa Bay and Hillsborough Community College, will host a County Job Fair on Oct. 7 from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at the HCC Dale Mabry Campus, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., across from Raymond James Stadium, in Tampa.

More than 50 employers and vendors participated in last year’s fair, including companies such as Coca-Cola, Amazon and Hillsborough County Schools.

The fair is free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Astrid Mosterd at CareerSource Tampa Bay at (813) 397-2090 or .

Membership meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a membership meeting on Oct. 11 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.

Guest speaker will be Paul Tash, chairman and chief executive officer of the Times Publishing Co.

The cost is $20 if you RSVP by Oct. 6, or $25 at the door.

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

Outlets job fair
Holiday shopping season is in sight at Tampa Premium Outlets.

A job fair to fill seasonal jobs is scheduled for Sept. 29 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Tampa Premium Outlets, Suite 312, between Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5th and adidas, at 2300 Grand Cypress Drive.

Job seekers should dress professionally and bring copies of their resumes. Applications will be available, and hiring retailers will be available to interview candidates.

Be sure to bring a pen and a notepad.

Participating stores include Ann Taylor, ASICS, Banana Republic, Factory Store, Bluegreens Vacations, Christopher & Banks, Cole Haan, Crocs, FOSSIL, Fragrance Outlets, GAP Factory Store, Gymboree, Hurley, Jockey, Nestle Tollhouse, Michael Kors, New York & Company, Lucky Brand, Perfumania, Samsonite, Seiko, Skechers, Starbucks, Sunglass Hut, Swarovski, Tilly’s, Toys R Us Express, The Limited, Tommy Hilfiger, Under Armour and Wilson’s Leather.

Tampa Premium Outlets also will be hiring in guest services, security and housekeeping.

For more information, visit PremiumOutlets.com/outlet/tampa.

New shops
Hanna Andersson and the Flip Flop Shops are coming to the Tampa Premium Outlets.

Hanna Andersson will open its second shop in Florida at the outlet mall on Sept. 23 at 10 a.m., at 2300 Grand Cypress Drive, off State Road 56, according to a news release.

The Swedish-based store sells clothes for babies through preteens.

On opening day, the first 500 customers will receive a free pair of long johns. On Sept. 24 and Sept. 25, the first 100 customers will receive a $20 Hanna gift card. There also will be a sale of up to 50 percent off, including sleepwear.

The Flip Flop Shops is listed in the outlet mall’s shop directory on its website, with an opening anticipated in December. Its core brands include Olukai, Quiksilver and Cobian, but many other fashionable flip flops and types of casual footwear are sold. The store’s motto is “Free Your Toes.”

Network luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a network luncheon on Sept. 22 at 11:30 a.m., at IHOP, 408 E. Bearss Ave., in Tampa. The theme is relationship building with business neighbors. Order from IHOP menu. A senior lunch menu will be available to all. Minimum of $5 is required if you do not order food, plus you must pay for your drinks.

For information, call TransAmerica at (813) 334-8998, or email Jenn Beaumont at .

Economic briefing
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly economic development briefing on Sept. 22 at 11:30 a.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa.

The guest speaker will be Dodd Crutcher, co-founder and principal of Prevarian Senior Living. Crutcher is a real estate professional. He jump-started Prevarian’s senior housing initiative in 2010, and spent a dozen years as general counsel and chief investment officer for a major Dallas real estate investment firm. He negotiated more than $500 million in office, medical office, hospital, retail and hospitality deals, and oversaw his firm’s health care operations, and real estate, including surgery centers and hospitals.

The $15 cost includes a buffet lunch.

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

Rib cook-off
The First Annual Rib Cook-Off and Business Expo will be held on Sept. 25 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

Sponsors are Jimmy BoDean’s Bar-B-Que and Catering, and Emerald Inspection Service.

Three rib cookers from different local companies will participate. Judging on ribs and side dishes will take place at 4 p.m.

People who donate $5 will receive a pulled pork sandwich and sides.

Donations will benefit PAWS for Friendship Inc., Love Thy Neighbor and the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS).

A business expo also will be held.

For information, contact James Harris at (813) 423-3663 or George Swatzbaugh at (352) 322-2700.

Breakfast meeting
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on Sept. 27 at 7:30 a.m., at the Fresh Market Café, at 5518 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Guest speaker is Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco.

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

Give Back Day
Anthony’s Coal-fired Pizza will have a Give Back Day on Sept. 27 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., at 13020 North Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.

Stop by, eat, drink and be merry.

For anyone who mentions the North Tampa chamber, the restaurant will donate 20 percent of the sale to the chamber.

For information, call the restaurant at (813) 265-2625.

Leadership role
Steve Saladino of Tampa is the new president of the state association for the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIF-Florida), a professional association based in Tallahassee, with 2,600 members statewide.

Saladino is owner and principal of Saladino Financial Group LLC, which has clients statewide, but primarily in north Tampa, Lutz and Land O’ Lakes.

Saladino served four years in the U.S. Army with the 82nd Airborne Division in the finance and accounting department. Afterward, he began a 26-year career in insurance and financing.

He earned the title of Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow, and as a moderator provided continuing education for The American College and the Florida Department of Financial Services.

He served as president of NAIFA-Tampa from 2006 to 2008, and is a 2008 graduate of NAIFA-Florida’s Leadership in Life Institute. In 2013, he became vice president of NAIFA-Florida.

For information, visit Naifa-Florida.org.

Award winner
RealReach Marketing President Jim Schaefer has more than 20 years’ experience in the homebuilding industry.

For the second year in a row, RealReach Marketing picked up an award at the Southeast Builder’s Conference, held in Orlando.

The Lutz-based company won honors for Best Website for their work with the Las Vegas-based builder, StoryBook Homes. In 2015, RealReach won for best YouTube video for a video on the Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department.

The Southeast Builder’s conference features the building industry’s trade show, and attracts hundreds of builders, commercial contractors, public relations professionals, and media and advertising professionals.

Excel and Aurora awards are given in marketing and design to the best in the business in the southeast United States.

RealReach offers website design and web-based marketing to clients that include automotive, health care, contractor, and education sectors. The company’s niche is the new home building industry.

Fall mixer
The East Pasco Networking Group will have its 2016 Fall Mixer on Sept. 20 at 6 p.m., at IHOP, at 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City.

Keynote speaker will be Amanda Markowitz of Sunrise Domestic Shelter in Dade City. Previous EPNG Standing Ovation Award Winners and past guest speakers also are invited.

The focus is on family more than business, so come out with family members.

There will be door prizes and a 50-50 drawing to benefit the Sunrise shelter. Door prizes can be donated for the event.

For information, contact the group’s chairman, Nils Lenz, at (813) 782-9491 or . Or, contact vice chairwoman, Vicky Jones, at (813) 431-1149 or .

Business forum
A Lunch N Learn Business Forum is scheduled for Sept. 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 Charles J. Lewandowski, a certified financial planner, who will discuss how to maximize your company’s retirement plan.

The cost for the forum is $15 including lunch. Please RSVP by Sept. 14, 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 Sept. 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Beef O’ Brady’s, at 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.

A display table will be available for brochures, flyers and promotional items.

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

Hispanic business luncheon
The Hispanic Business Leaders luncheon will be on Sept. 20 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. The event is hosted by the Hispanic Business Leaders of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce. Meetings are conducted in English.

Guest speaker will be John Angelett of The Small Assisted Living Coalition, which provides senior care placement services.

The cost is $20 for chamber members and $25 for non-members, but $15 for members and $20 for non-members, if prepaid by Sept. 15.

For information, contact .

Job fair
Mettler-Toledo Safeline and Eagle Product Inspection will have a job fair on Sept. 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 6005 Benjamin Road, in Tampa.

Mettler-Toledo officials recently announced plans to close operations in Tampa and Ithaca, New York, as the company expands and builds a $30 million manufacturing plant at Northpointe Village in Lutz. As many as 275 jobs, including transfers of current employees, are anticipated.

Job openings are field service engineers, project manager (X-Ray), dispatch coordinator, order entry administrators, CNC machinists, crating and shipping, fabrication supervisor, C# programmer, technical sales specialist, mechanical design engineer, service dispatcher/CSR, inside sales, welders, assemblers, shipping coordinator, mechanical engineer and regional sales manager.

For information, email .

 

Health care expansion
The North Tampa Behavioral Health treatment center, at 29910 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, has begun a $10 million expansion. Representatives from the Pasco Economic Development Council, The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce and the North Tampa Behavioral Center gathered for the Aug. 22 groundbreaking on the 27,500-square-foot expansion project. The project will add 24 beds to the facility’s current 75-bed capacity, and will result in 50 additional jobs. Construction is expected to take about nine months.

The center treats a range of behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. The first phase is for North Tampa Behavioral Health’s C.O.R.E. program, which aids the veteran’s population. The acronym stands for Challenge, Overcome, Restore, Empower.

The Pasco EDC helped expedite the permitting process to get the project started.

Business sponsors needed
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce is seeking business sponsors for its Student of the Month program, which has promoted academic excellence and citizenship for more than 20 years.

Area schools choose one student each month from September through May to receive a trophy and T-shirt recognizing the student’s achievement. The name of the sponsoring business is on the T-shirt. Typically, schools invite a representative of the business to visit the school each month and present the award.

The program is growing and needs more sponsors. The chamber also supports other programs as well, including Turnaround Student awards and Peer Mediator teams.

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

Toastmaster class
Zephyrhills Toastmasters will have a class on public speaking on Sept. 8 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Microtel Inn & Suites, 7839 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Overcome your fear of public speaking and deliver more dynamic presentations.

For information, contact Sam Abrahani at (813) 863-4608 or .

Industry awards
The Pasco Economic Development Council will host its 30th annual Appreciation Banquet and Industry of the Year Awards on Sept. 8 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Saddlebrook Resort & Spa, 5700 Saddlebrook Way in Wesley Chapel.

Nominees for this year’s awards are Bayfront Health Dade City, Bayonet Plumbing Heating and A/C, ComPark 75, Crestmark Pharmacy Services LLC, Dixie Belle Paint Company, First National Bank of Pasco, Global Enterprises LLC, Leggett & Platt Adjustable Bed Group, Marjorie’s Hope, Nicopure Labs LLC, Optimum Plumbing LLC, Premier Community Healthcare Group, Rogers Tower P.A., Southeast Bottling & Beverage Co., Southeast Personnel Leasing Inc., Trxade Inc., and USA Underwriting Solutions of America.

The awards recognize top companies in Pasco County that excel in technology, innovations, job creation, growth, capital investment and community involvement. The annual awards banquet is attended by more than 600 business and community leaders, as well as elected officials.

For information on the event, visit PascoEDC.com/events, or call (813) 926-0827, ext. 226.

Business seminar
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Pasco Economic Development Council to offer a 10-week business seminar, SMARTstart CO.STARTERS, beginning Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Wesley Chapel chamber, 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The Saturday classes will help business owners and entrepreneurs validate their ideas and learn how to turn those ideas into reality. Up to 15 slots are available. Online registration must be completed by Sept. 7 at 4 p.m.

For information, call Pasco EDC at (813) 926-0827, ext. 225; the chamber office at (813) 994-8534; or, visit the SMARTstart Pasco Business Incubator website at SmartstartPasco.com.

Central Pasco meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a general membership meeting on Sept. 13 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.

Guest speaker will be State Rep. Danny Burgess Jr.

The cost is $20 if you RSVP by Sept. 8, or $25 at the door.

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

Beer and networking
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host Tap Tasting Tuesday-Networking and Craft Beer on Sept. 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, at 13020 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.

The event is open to the public. The cost is $25 for appetizers, beer tasting, networking, drawings and prizes.

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

Lunch n learn
SMARTstart Dade City Incubator will have a free Lunch n Learn seminar on Sept. 13 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the SMARTstart Dade City Incubator, at 37837 Meridian Ave., Suite 309, in Dade City.

Confidex Payroll Solutions will offer tips on payrolls and taxes.

To register, or for information, contact the incubator office at (352) 437-4861, or visit tinyurl.com/htrpvph.

Network breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on Sept. 14 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Wesley Chapel Toyota at 5300 Eagleston Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. Come for tips and networking to strengthen your business. This 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, at ext. 1237.

Happy hour networking
The Watermark at Trinity will have a networking happy hour on Sept. 14 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., at 1960 Blue Fox Way in Trinity. Stop by after work and meet colleagues in health care, finance, real estate and law.

The Watermark is an assisted living and memory care community owned and operated by Watermark Retirement Communities.

RSVP by Sept. 12 by calling The Watermark at (727) 597-4082. Or, you may contact Jennifer Naster, sales director for The Watermark, at (727) 514-4925, or .

BJ’s plans fall opening
BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse will open in October, according to an announcement from Simon, a global real estate management company and owner of Tampa Premium Outlets.

BJ’s will join a growing list of restaurants previously opened along State Road 56, in front of the outlet mall, including Chick-fil-A, Culver’s and Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen.

Other restaurants coming to the site include Panda Express and Longhorn Steakhouse.

BJ’s menu offers deep-dish pizzas, salads, sandwiches, pastas, steaks and an array of craft beers.

BJ’s Restaurants Inc., currently owns and operates more than 170 restaurants nationwide.

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Sept. 2 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch, a fashion show with a local store, and time to network.

The cost is $15 for members, and $18 for all guests. Please register at Women-n-Charge.com.

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

Breakfast meeting
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Sept. 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.

Guest speaker will be Paul Tash, chairman and chief executive officer of the Tampa Bay Times and Times Publishing Co.

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

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

Networking breakfast
The Wednesday Morning Networking Group will meet Sept. 7 at 7:30 a.m., at The Lake House at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-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 .

Toastmaster class
Zephyrhills Toastmasters will have a class on public speaking on Sept. 8 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Microtel Inn & Suites, 7839 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Overcome your fear of public speaking and deliver more dynamic presentations.

For information, contact Sam Abrahani at (813) 863-4608 or .

Industry awards
The Pasco Economic Development Council will hold its 30th annual Appreciation Banquet and Industry of the Year Awards on Sept. 8 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Saddlebrook Resort & Spa, 5700 Saddlebrook Way in Wesley Chapel.

Nominees for this year’s awards are Bayfront Health Dade City, Bayonet Plumbing Heating and A/C, ComPark 75, Crestmark Pharmacy Services LLC, Dixie Belle Paint Company, First National Bank of Pasco, Global Enterprises LLC, Leggett & Platt Adjustable Bed Group, Marjorie’s Hope, Nicopure Labs LLC, Optimum Plumbing LLC, Premier Community Healthcare Group, Rogers Tower P.A., Southeast Bottling & Beverage Co., Southeast Personnel Leasing Inc., Trxade Inc., and USA Underwriting Solutions of America.

The awards recognize top companies in Pasco County that excel in technology, innovations, job creation, growth, capital investment and community involvement. The annual awards banquet is attended by more than 600 business and community leaders, as well as elected officials.

For information on the event, visit PascoEDC.com/events, or call (813) 926-0827, ext. 226.

Business seminar
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Pasco Economic Development Council to offer a 10-week business seminar, SMARTstart CO.STARTERS, beginning Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Wesley Chapel chamber, 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The Saturday classes will help business owners and entrepreneurs validate their ideas and learn how to turn those ideas into reality. Up to 15 slots are available. Online registration must be completed by Sept. 7 at 4 p.m.

For information, call Pasco EDC at (813) 926-0827, ext. 225; the chamber office at (813) 994-8534; or, visit the SMARTstart Pasco Business Incubator website at SmartstartPasco.com.

Central Pasco meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a general membership meeting on Sept. 13 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.

Guest speaker will be State Rep. Danny Burgess Jr.

The cost is $20 if you RSVP by Sept. 8, and $25 at the door.

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

Beer and networking
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host Tap Tasting Tuesday-Networking and Craft Beer on Sept. 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, at 13020 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.

The event is open to the public. The cost is $25 for appetizers, beer tasting, networking, drawings and prizes.

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

Lunch n learn
SMARTstart Dade City Incubator will have a free Lunch n Learn seminar on Sept. 13 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the SMARTstart Dade City Incubator, at 37837 Meridian Ave., Suite 309, in Dade City.

Confidex Payroll Solutions will offer tips on payrolls and taxes.

To register, or for information, contact the incubator office at (352) 437-4861, or visit tinyurl.com/htrpvph.

Network breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on Sept. 14 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Wesley Chapel Toyota at 5300 Eagleston Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. Come for tips and networking to strengthen your business. This 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, at ext. 1237.

International housing sales
A survey by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR) found that Florida is in the top tier nationally for home purchases by foreigners, according to a press release from Smith & Associates Real Estate.

From April 2015 to March 2016, residential properties purchased by foreign buyers totaled more than $103 billion in sales, a 3 percent increase over the previous 12-month period. California, Texas, Arizona, New York and Florida accounted for more than half of those sales, with Florida topping the list with 22 percent of all sales, according to the 2016 Profile of International Activity in U.S. Residential Real Estate.

Florida’s year-round warm climate, award-winning beaches and easy access to international airports are attracting foreign buyers, according to the survey.

The top five countries of international buyers in the United States are China, Canada, Mexico, India and the United Kingdom. Their purchases were valued higher than the median price of all U.S. home sales, and most were purchased with cash. Nearly half of the sales were in suburban areas.

The survey found that China exceeded sales from every other country in volume and price, accounting for 14 percent of international real estate activity in the nation.

To promote Tampa Bay on an international level, Smith & Associates Real Estate is partnering with Mayfair International Realty, a global real estate group catering to international buyers.

Job fair
Pasco County’s Department of Emergency Services will host an open-house style job fair on Aug. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at 8744 Government Drive, Building A, in New Port Richey.

The county’s 911-call center has 19 positions available.

The county is looking for people who can be calm under pressure, enjoy helping people and want great job benefits.

The 911-center team handles emergency calls on a state-of-the-art computerized dispatch system and determines the appropriate response for each call for service.

Visit YouTube.com to view a Pasco County 911 Call Center Recruitment video.

Applications can be made online or in person at the job fair.

For more information, visit FL-PascoCounty.civicplus.com.

Economic briefing
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly economic development briefing on Aug. 25 at 11:30 a.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The guest speaker will be Hector Mencia of Costco Wholesale.

The $15 cost includes a buffet lunch.

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

Network luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a network luncheon on Aug. 25 at 11:30 a.m., at IHOP, 408 E. Bearss Ave., in Tampa. The theme is relationship building with business neighbors. Order from the IHOP menu. A senior lunch menu will be available to all. Minimum of $5 is required if you do not order food, plus you must pay for your drinks.

For information, call TransAmerica at (813) 334-8998, or email Jenn Beaumont at .

Women-n-Charge
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Sept. 2 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive, in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch, a fashion show with a local store, and time to network.

The cost is $15 for members and $18 for all guests. Please register at Women-n-Charge.com.

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

Breakfast meeting
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Sept. 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.

Guest speaker will be Paul Tash, chairman and chief executive officer of the Tampa Bay Times and Times Publishing Co.

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

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

Breakfast meeting
The Wednesday Morning Networking Group will meet Sept. 7 at 7:30 a.m., at The Lake House at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-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 .

Toastmaster class
Zephyrhills Toastmasters will have a class on public speaking on Sept. 8 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Microtel Inn & Suites, 7839 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Overcome your fear of public speaking and deliver more dynamic presentations.

For information, contact Sam Abrahani at (813) 863-4608 or .

Industry awards
The Pasco Economic Development Council will hold its 30th annual Appreciation Banquet and Industry of the Year Awards on Sept. 8 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Saddlebrook Resort & Spa, 5700 Saddlebrook Way in Wesley Chapel.

Nominees for this year’s awards are Bayfront Health Dade City, Bayonet Plumbing Heating and A/C, ComPark 75, Crestmark Pharmacy Services LLC, Dixie Belle Paint Company, First National Bank of Pasco, Global Enterprises LLC, Leggett & Platt Adjustable Bed Group, Marjorie’s Hope, Nicopure Labs LLC, Optimum Plumbing LLC, Premier Community Healthcare Group, Rogers Tower P.A., Southeast Bottling & Beverage Co., Southeast Personnel Leasing Inc., Trxade Inc., and USA Underwriting Solutions of America.

The awards recognize top companies in Pasco County that excel in technology, innovations, job creation, growth, capital investment and community involvement. The annual awards banquet is attended by more than 600 business and community leaders, as well as elected officials.

For information on the event, visit PascoEDC.com/events, or call (813) 926-0827, ext. 226.

Business seminar
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the Pasco Economic Development Council to offer a 10-week business seminar, SMARTstart CO.STARTERS, beginning Sept. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon, at the Wesley Chapel chamber, 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The Saturday classes will help business owners and entrepreneurs validate their ideas and learn how to turn those ideas into reality. Up to 15 slots are available. Online registration must be completed by Sept. 7 at 4 p.m.

For information, call Pasco EDC at (813) 926-0827, ext. 225, the chamber office at (813) 994-8534, or visit the SMARTstart Pasco Business Incubator website at SmartstartPasco.com.