Business Digest

New day spa and salon
The belle ame Day Spa & Salon has opened at 21758 State Road 54, in the Osprey Cove Professional Park, in Lutz. The day spa and salon will feature organic and natural products. Both women and men are welcome.

Services include massage, facials and skin are, body treatments, waxing, hair styling, manicures and pedicures. The spa is open seven days a week.

For information, call the spa at (813) 949-8400, email owner Lisa Huston at , or visit BelleAmeDaySpa.com.

Open house
OTB Delight Café will celebrate its second anniversary with an open house on Feb. 18 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 2653 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. The event is free.

The café’s menu includes salads, sandwiches, burgers and desserts, made from farm fresh, free range and organic produce and meats.

For information, call (813) 973-8880, or visit OTBDelightCafe.com.

Breakfast meeting
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will have its quarterly meeting – “Join Us for Java” – on Feb. 18 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7040 Gall Blvd. Come to the FHZ Creation Cafe on the first floor. Complimentary valet parking will be available for chamber guests at the hospital’s main entrance.

Guest speaker will be honorary lifetime member Cliff McDuffie, who will talk about how to “Match Expectations to Results.”

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

Burgess joins law firm
State Rep. Danny Burgess is joining the law firm of Lucas/Magazine, which is adding an office at 2533 Windguard Circle, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel. The firm specializes in personal injury and also other practices, including nursing home abuse, criminal law and estate planning.

Burgess is an east Pasco native who attended Pasco County schools. He served as mayor of Zephyrhills, and is captain in the United States Army Reserve as a judge advocate. He and his wife Courtney have two children.

Burgess was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2014, and represents the 38th District, which includes Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes, Zephyrhills, Trilby and Dade City.

Business training
Interested in doing business with Hillsborough County government and want to know how to start? Or, are you already doing business with Hillsborough but want to learn more?

The county now offers training to experienced vendors and new suppliers who want to learn how to navigate the self-service, iSupplier portal. The program allows vendors to directly access information and enter business transactions through the county’s procure-to-pay process.

A two-hour training session is offered on the second Tuesday of each month. Topics include navigating the Procurement Service website, registering in iSupplier, updating vendor profiles, submitting bids and reviewing business opportunities in Hillsborough County

Training sessions are from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center, at 2101 Palm Ave., in Tampa. The sessions are free, but advance registration is required.

For information call (813) 272-5790,  email , or visit HillsboroughCounty.org/procurement.

Lunch and learn
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will “Lunch N Learn” on Feb. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the chamber’s boardroom at 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., in Suite 105, in Wesley Chapel.

The guest speaker will Dr. Bill Scheu from the New Tampa Chiropractic & Injury Center. He will talk about stress and techniques to use at work, to manage stress and become healthier.

The cost is $15, including lunch.

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

Ribbon cutting
Liberty Tax Services will have a ribbon cutting on Feb. 23 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Towne Square Plaza, at 5522 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills. Light hors d’oeuvres and drinks will be served.

For information, call Liberty Tax office at (813) 540-1212.

Catholic Business Network
The Catholic Business Network of Tampa Bay meets every Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., in Rosary Hall, Room 5 and Room 6, at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes. The network is a nonprofit membership organization for local business people who want to incorporate their faith into the workplace, and network with other Catholics to foster personal and business relationships. All faiths are welcome.

For information, visit CBNtampa.org.

Free business seminars
Land O’ Lakes residents Ed and Ivonne Ortiz will host free business seminars on how to start your own business every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Classes will be at the Carrollwood offices of Primerica, at 8902 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Suite 117, on the west side of the highway, south of the apex in Lutz.

Topics include “how to begin and grow a business without cold calling,” “financial products that help people plan for the future,” and “license exam preparations for insurance and mutual funds.”

For information or to register, call Ed Ortiz at (813) 269-7400 or (813) 546-9060.

New hotel near outlets
The owner of Impact Properties is proposing a six-story, 130-room Hyatt Place hotel at Cypress Creek Town Center, according to Pasco County records. A conceptual plan filed with the county’s planning department shows the hotel at the west corner of State Road 56 and Wesley Chapel Boulevard, and on the east end of the proposed Sierra Center Road. This section of the proposed town center is north of State Road 56, opposite Tampa Premium Outlets.

New restaurant and coffee
On the Border Mexican Grill & Cantina and Starbucks are in the mix for retail on parcels located outside Tampa Premium Outlets. Pasco County records show Hunt Real Estate filed a pre-application and conceptual plan for On the Border, at about 6,000-square-feet, and Starbucks, at about 2,100 square feet. The location is 2257 Sun Vista Drive, according to Pasco County records. Other restaurants also under construction or planned for Sun Vista or Grand Cypress Drive include Cheddar’s Casual Café and Panda Express.

Donut shop planned
A Zephyrhills’ Dunkin’ Donuts is on the drawing board. Plans are to build the donut shop, with a drive-through, at State Road 54 between Dean Dairy and Seaberg roads, according to Pasco County records.

Pet paradise
Developers are proposing to build Pet Paradise Resort on the northeast corner of State Road 56 and Cypress Ridge Road, near the Interstate 75 interchange, according to Pasco County records.

Conceptual plans and a pre-application form show an approximately 14,800- square-foot building. The pet resort would offer daytime care, training, grooming, boarding kennels, indoor and outdoor play areas, a pet swimming pool and an overnight manager’s office.

Free business seminars
Land O’ Lakes residents Ed and Ivonne Ortiz will host free business seminars on how to start your own business every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Classes will be at the Carrollwood offices of Primerica, at 8902 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Suite 117, on the west side of the highway, south of the apex in Lutz.

Topics include “how to begin and grow a business without cold calling,” “financial products that help people plan for the future,” and “license exam preparations for insurance and mutual funds.”

For information or to register, call Ed Ortiz at (813) 269-7400 or (813) 546-9060.

General meeting
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly general meeting on Feb. 11, with check-in at 11 a.m., at Brunchies Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Catering at 14366 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. Networking is until 11:30 a.m., when lunch will be served from a select menu.

For information, contact the chamber at (813) 961-2420, or email .

Ribbon cutting for CPA
FMA Fox, Martukovich & Associates CPA will have a ribbon cutting on Feb. 11 from noon to 1:30 p.m., at 1527 N. Dale Mabry Highway, on the west side of Dale Mabry, south of the apex, in Lutz.

For information, call Amanda at (727) 530-0036.

Luncheon
The Hispanic Business Leaders luncheon will be Feb. 16 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. The event is hosted by the Hispanic Business Leaders of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce. The sponsor is Rivera Chiropractic.

The cost is $20 for chamber members, and $25 for non-members, but only $18 if prepaid.

For information, contact John Jay Anglada, of Finest DeeJays, at (813) 298-3232.

Lunch and learn
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will “Lunch N Learn” on Feb. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the chamber’s boardroom at 6013 Wesley Chapel Blvd., in Suite 105, in Wesley Chapel.

The guest speaker will Dr. Bill Scheu from the New Tampa Chiropractic & Injury Center. He will talk about stress and techniques to use at work, to manage stress and become healthier.

The cost is $15, including lunch.

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

Catholic Business Network
The Catholic Business Network of Tampa Bay meets every Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., in Rosary Hall, Rooms 5 and 6, at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes. The network is a nonprofit membership organization for local business people who want to incorporate their faith into the workplace, and network with other Catholics to foster personal and business relationships. All faiths are welcome.

For information, visit CBNtampa.org.

 

 

New management
Beef O’ Brady’s on U.S. 41 at Sunset Lane, in Lutz, is under new management. New managing owner Greg Gilbert brings more than 20 years of franchise experience to the Lutz community, including service at T.G.I. Friday’s and Ruby Tuesday’s. Gilbert’s team is committed to customer satisfaction and top quality in food, beverage and service. Plans also are under way to increase community involvement by supporting and sponsoring local sports leagues and school teams.

The restaurant is accepting pre-order “To Go” requests for Super Bowl 50 on Feb. 7.

For information, call (813) 909-2300, or visit BeefOBradys.com/Lutz.

Monthly breakfast
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast Feb. 4 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at the Golden Corral, at 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker will be Casio Jones, wellness director for Florida Hospital Zephyrhills. He will explain why “Age is Limitless.”

The cost is $7 for members and guests.

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

Grand opening
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will celebrate the grand opening and ribbon cutting of CREATION Health Wellness Center on Feb. 4 from noon to 2 p.m., at 38233 Daughtery Road, Zephyrhills. There also will be a joint Florida Hospital Community Open House. Come tour the facilities, meet the staff, and have light refreshments. There also will be door prizes. Check out the fitness room, smoothie bar, and education room with kitchen.

For information, visit FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills/events.

Ribbon cutting
Aprile Chiropractic will host a ribbon cutting on Feb. 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 1932 Highland Oaks Blvd., off the south side of State Road 54, in Lutz.

For information, call (813) 909-1644, or visit AprileChiropractic.com.

Women-n-Charge lunch
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Feb. 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch and time to network. Come share talents, build relationships and share resources with other women in business. The guest speaker will be international singer and songwriter Thanecha Anderson, who will talk about “Overcoming all Odds to Change the World.”

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

To register, visit Women-n-Charge.com.
For information, call (813) 600-9848, or email .

Breakfast networking
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on Feb. 9 at 8 a.m., at the Fresh Market Café, at 5518 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker is Carol Scheckler, president of the Samaritan Project of Zephyrhills.

For information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491, or email .

Centra Care ribbon cutting
Centra Care Florida Hospital Urgent Care will host a ribbon cutting on Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. to noon, at 1127 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. Light refreshments and lunch will be served.

For information, email .

Ribbon cutting for CPA
FMA Fox, Martukovich & Associates CPA will have a ribbon cutting on Feb. 11 from noon to 1:30 p.m., at 1527 N. Dale Mabry Highway, on the west side of Dale Mabry, south of the apex, in Lutz.

For information, call Amanda at (727) 530-0036.

Catholic Business Network
The Catholic Business Network of Tampa Bay meets every Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., in Rosary Hall, Rooms 5 and 6, at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes. The network is a nonprofit membership organization for local business people who want to incorporate their faith into the workplace, and network with other Catholics to foster personal and business relationships. All faiths are welcome.

For information, visit CBNtampa.org.

Jobs event
A Career Expo will help match top technology graduates with local companies in a two-day event on Feb. 25 and Feb. 26 hosted by the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. The expo will be at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, and will feature career center directors from more than 45 of the nation’s top universities including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Georgia Tech, Cornell, Notre Dame, Purdue, the University of Central Florida, the University of South Florida and the University of Florida.

Career center directors and local business professionals will participate in receptions, breakfasts, luncheons and individual meetings to discuss talent needs.

The Corridor Council encourages the attendance of businesses within a 23-county region including Hillsborough, Pasco and surrounding counties.

The event kicks off on Feb. 25 with keynote speaker Bill Johnson, the chief executive officer of Enterprise Florida.

The Florida High Tech Corridor Council is an economic development initiative of UCF, USF and UF. Its mission is to encourage innovation and expand the high tech industry through partnerships that support research, marketing, work force and entrepreneurship. More than 25 local and regional economic development organizations, state and community colleges, and 12 CareerSource boards participate.

Registrations are available for companies to participate. For information, email Owen Wentworth at .

A full list of attending universities, the Career Expo schedule, and other details are available at FloridaHighTech.com/career/career-expo-2016.

Lutz Kmart closing
The Kmart store at 22920 State Road 54 in Lutz will close its doors in mid-March. The store’s 62 employees will be eligible to receive severance or to apply for positions at area Sears or Kmart stores, according to an email from Howard Riefs, spokesman for Sears Holdings.

Most of the employees are part- time, hourly wage earners.

A liquidation sale at the store began Jan. 14.

In his email, Riefs explained the closure here and at other stores as part of a company-wide effort to cut expenses and speed up transformation of the company’s business model.

Catholic Business Network
The Catholic Business Network of Tampa Bay meets every Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, at 2348 Collier Parkway in Rosary Hall, Rooms 5 and 6. The network is a nonprofit membership organization for local business people who want to incorporate their faith into the workplace, and network with other Catholics to foster personal and business relationships. However, all faiths are welcome.

For information, visit CBNtampa.org.

Breakfast mania
East and Central Pasco Marketing Mania will take place on Jan. 28 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Commons at Pretty Pond, at 38130 Pretty Pond Road in Zephyrhills. A continental breakfast will be provided. To RSVP, call (813) 400-2263.

The event takes place every last Thursday of the month. Locations may change periodically.

For information, call (813) 779-4501.

Networking luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a network luncheon on Jan. 28 at 11:30 a.m., at IHOP, at 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 directions, call (813) 960-2679.

Wesley Chapel breakfast meeting
The Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Feb. 2 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College, in the third floor conference center, Room B-303, at the Porter Campus, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The cost for chamber members is $15 in advance. Register online by Jan. 29 at 3 p.m. At the door, the cost is $20 for members and non-members.

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

Wednesday morning networking
The Wednesday Morning Networking Group will meet Feb. 3 at 7:30 a.m., at The Lake House at Hungry Harry’s Family B-B-            Q, at 3116 Land O’ Lake Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Each attendee will be able to present a 30-second pitch. The $7 cost includes breakfast. The sponsor for this meeting is UpHill Marketing Group. Sponsorships for future meetings are available.

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

Ribbon cutting
Aprile Chiropractic will host a ribbon cutting on Feb. 4 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 1932 Highland Oaks Road, off the south side of State Road 54, in Lutz.

For information, call (813) 909-1644, or visit AprileChiropractic.com.

Women-n-Charge lunch
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Feb. 5 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive, in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch and time to network. Come share talents, build relationships and share resources with other women in business. The guest speaker will be international singer and songwriter Thanecha Anderson, who will talk about “Overcoming all odds to change the world.”

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

To register, visit Women-n-Charge.com.
For information, contact Judy at (813) 600-9848 or .

Jobs event
A Career Expo will help match top technology graduates with local companies in a two-day event on Feb. 25 and Feb. 26 hosted by the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. The expo will be at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, and will feature career center directors from more than 45 of the nation’s top universities including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Georgia Tech, Cornell, Notre Dame, Purdue, the University of Central Florida, the University of South Florida and the University of Florida.

Career center directors and local business professionals will participate in receptions, breakfasts, luncheons and individual meetings to discuss talent needs.

The Corridor encourages the attendance of businesses within a 23-county region including Hillsborough, Pasco and surrounding counties.

The event kicks off on Feb. 25 with keynote speaker Bill Johnson, the chief executive officer of Enterprise Florida.

The Florida High Tech Corridor Council is an economic development initiative of UCF, USF and UF. Its mission is to encourage innovation and expand the high tech industry through partnerships that support research, marketing, work force and entrepreneurship. More than 25 local and regional economic development organizations, state and community colleges, and 12 CareerSource boards participate.

Registrations are available for companies to participate. For information, email Owen Wentworth at .

A full list of attending universities, the Career Expo schedule, and other details are available at FloridaHighTech.com/career/career-expo-2016.

 

Jobs event
A Career Expo will help match top technology graduates with local companies in a two-day event on Feb. 25 and Feb. 26 hosted by the Florida High Tech Corridor Council. The expo will be at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, and will feature career center directors from more than 45 of the nation’s top universities including the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Georgia Tech, Cornell, Notre Dame, Purdue, the University of Central Florida, the University of South Florida and the University of Florida.

Career center directors and local business professionals will participate in receptions, breakfasts, luncheons and individual meetings to discuss talent needs.

The Corridor encourages the attendance of businesses within a 23-county region including Hillsborough, Pasco and surrounding counties.

The event kicks off on Feb. 25 with keynote speaker Bill Johnson, the chief executive officer of Enterprise Florida.

The Florida High Tech Corridor Council is an economic development initiative of UCF, USF and UF. Its mission is to encourage innovation and expand the high tech industry through partnerships that support research, marketing, work force and entrepreneurship. More than 25 local and regional economic development organizations, state and community colleges, and 12 CareerSource boards participate.

Registrations are available for companies to participate. For information, email Owen Wentworth at .

A full list of attending universities, the Career Expo schedule, and other details are available at FloridaHighTech.com/career/career-expo-2016.

Grand opening
Florida E.N.T. and Allergy will host a free grand opening and ribbon cutting on Jan. 20 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., at 26853 Foggy Creek Road, Building 21, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel.

The health group is a merger of Tampa Bay E.N.T. and Tampa Ear, Nose and Throat Associates, which have served the Tampa Bay area for more than 40 years.

Eight ear, nose and throat specialists provide services for the entire family, ranging from treating pediatric allergies to fitting hearing aids. They have several locations including Tampa, Lutz and North Tampa.

For information, visit FloridaENTandAllergy.com, or call (813) 879-8045.

Ribbon cutting
American Home Title of Land O’ Lakes will host a ribbon cutting for its remodeled office on Jan. 21 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 2047 Osprey Lane in Lutz. Refreshments will be served.

For information, call American Title at (813) 948-1868.

Ribbon cutting
Profits and Gains will have a ribbon cutting and grand reopening on Jan. 22 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., at 2607 Windguard Circle, Suite 101, in Wesley Chapel. The company provides tax and accounting services.

The event is free.

For information, email , or call (813) 386-3144.

Breakfast mania
East and Central Pasco Marketing Mania will take place on Jan. 28 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the Commons at Pretty Pond, at 38130 Pretty Pond Road in Zephyrhills. A continental breakfast is provided. To RSVP, call (813) 400-2263.

The event takes place every last Thursday of the month. Locations may change periodically.

For information, call (813) 779-4501.

Networking luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a network luncheon on Jan. 28 at 11:30 a.m., at IHOP, at 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.

To RSVP by Jan. 26, email , or call AIG at (813) 334-8998.

For directions, call (813) 960-2679.

Breakfast meeting
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Feb. 2 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:15 a.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College, in the third floor conference center, Room B-303, at the Porter Campus, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

The cost for chamber members is $15 in advance. Register online by Jan. 29 at 3 p.m. At the door, the cost is $20 for members and non-members.

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

Insurance commissioner resigns
Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty has announced his resignation, effective May 2. McCarty, who was the state’s first appointed insurance commissioner, has had the post for 12 years.

McCarty plans to pursue other job opportunities, according to a news release from Florida Office of Insurance Regulation.

He was appointed by Gov. Jeb Bush in 2003 and served under three governors. According to media reports, he survived efforts last year by Gov. Rick Scott and some legislators to oust him from office. However, McCarty said he was not forced to resign.

Scott’s spokeswoman, Jackie Schutz, issued a statement thanking McCarty for his service and wishing him the best of luck in his next endeavors.

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano said Florida consumers are losing one of their greatest advocates.

“Commissioner McCarty not only stood up for the consumer, he had an incredible grasp of the complexity of insurance in all its forms,” Fasano said in a news release. “His voice of warning or support could change the tide for a piece of legislation. He truly was an individual who, even though powerful, behaved at all times like a gentleman. He is a class act whose shoes will surely be hard to fill.”

Scott and his cabinet will appoint McCarty’s successor.

New Starkey Ranch builder
Pulte Homes will open three model homes in the master-planned community of Starkey Ranch in early 2017, according to a news release from Larry Vershel Communications.

Starkey Ranch is located on State Road 54 at Heart Pine Avenue, four miles west of the Suncoast Parkway.

Pulte Homes will offer 13 one and two-story home designs ranging from about 1,900 square feet to 4,200 square feet, with two and three-car garages. The builder’s 165 home sites are in the Homestead Park neighborhood, which offers wetland and woodland views. Prices aren’t currently available.

Starkey Ranch currently offers two dog parks, a playground, picnic pavilions and a recreation lawn. In 2016, a community pool and splash pad, and the first baseball and multi-sports fields in the 90-acre district park will have grand openings. Future plans include a kindergarten through eighth grade public school, a 20-mile multi-use trail system, a shared use gymnasium and tennis courts, a public library, and a community theater.

For information, call (877) 752-0173, email , or visit Pulte.com/starkeyranch.

Alcohol license
BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse is ready for its beer, wine and liquor license.

The California-based restaurant plans to build its eatery and brewery near the entrance to Tampa Premium Outlets, at the intersection of Grand Cypress Drive and Creek Grass Way.

Tampa Premium Outlets, Inc., filed for the alcoholic beverage license on behalf of BJ’s. The Pasco County Planning Commission will consider approval of the application on Jan. 13 in Dade City.

No construction start date is announced

A conceptual site plan submitted to the county shows a 7,500-square-foot restaurant, with an entrance off Creek Grass Way.

The restaurant’s menu offers BJ’s signature deep-dish pizza, as well as salads, pastas, steaks, baby back ribs and a kid’s menu.

According to BJ’s website, the restaurant began in California in 1978, and added a line of handcrafted beers in the mid-1990s.

Business loan seminar
Pasco-Hernando State College Chapter of SCORE will have a free seminar on “How to Apply for a Business Loan” on Jan. 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.

The seminar will cover start-ups, mature businesses and purchasing businesses. The discussion also will include sources of loans from $5,000 to $5 million.

For information, call (727) 842-4638, or visit PascoHernandoScore.org.

Chamber luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon on Jan. 14, with check-in at 11 a.m., at Brunchies Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Catering at 14366 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. Networking is until 11:30 a.m., when lunch will be served from a select menu.

The guest speaker will be journalist and author Kristen Hare, who wrote “100 Things to do in Tampa Bay Before You Die.”

For information and to RSVP, call the chamber at (813) 961-2420, email , or visit NorthTampaChamber.com.

Using the Internet in business
Pasco-Hernando State College Chapter of SCORE will offer a free seminar on “Using the Internet in Your Business” on Jan. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New River Branch Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Zephyrhills.

The seminar will cover how a website can enhance your business. Those attending the session will be walked through an eight-step process of key activities that can help almost any business quickly leverage technology.

For information, call (727) 842-4638, or visit PascoHernandoScore.org.

Hispanic business leaders luncheon
The Hispanic Business Leaders Luncheon will be on Jan. 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. The event is sponsored by the Hispanic Business Leaders of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce.

Guest speakers will share personal experiences and law enforcement’s perspective on human trafficking.

The cost is $20 for chamber members and $25 for non-members, but only $18 if prepaid.

For information, contact John Jay Anglada, of Finest DeeJays, at (813) 298-3232.

 

New president
Andy Joe Scaglione is the 2016 president of the Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS. Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn installed Scaglione at the 104th annual Installation and Awards Banquet at the Avila Golf and Country Club. Other officers are: Joe Perez, of Keller Williams Tampa Properties, president-elect; Mari Colgan of Ellie & Associates, vice president; Norma Cohen of Smith & Associates Real Estate, secretary; and Sandy Streit of SandyRae Realty, treasurer.

The association’s top award of 2015 REALTOR of the Year went to Janet Swilley of Realty2000pa.com Inc.

The Tampa-based trade organization represents more than 7,400 real estate professionals in the Bay area, including Pasco County.

Women-n-Charge luncheon
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Jan. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch and time to network. The guest speaker will be Sandra Miniere, of Integrative Wellness, with her presentation on “Success Begins with a Compelling Vision.”

The cost is $15 for members (Tuesday before the meeting), and $18 for all guests (and members paying Wednesday and after).

To register, visit Women-n-Charge.com. For information, call (813) 600-9848, or email .

Membership meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its 2016 Membership Meeting luncheon on Jan. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Harbor Terrace Restaurant at Heritage Harbor Golf and Country Club, at 19502 Heritage Harbor Parkway in Lutz.

The luncheon is sponsored by Jones & Co. The guest speakers will be certified public accountants Patricia Jones and Traci Malik, both of Jones & Co.

RSVP by Jan. 18 to pay $20 for the luncheon. At the door, the cost is $25.

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

Networking lunch
The East Pasco Networking Group will have its “Next Regular Exciting Meeting” on Jan. 12 at 11:30 a.m., at Blackstone’s Bar & Restaurant, 38361 County Road 54 in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker will be Ed Caum, Pasco County’s tourism director.

For information, email Nils Lenz at , or visit the group’s website at Meetup.com/EastPascoNetworkingGroup/.

After-hours mixer
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a “Chamber Chatter Connections” mixer on Jan. 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Nabruzzi Trattoria, 6062 Van Dyke Road in Lutz. Cruise Planners is hosting the free event with a special presentation, wine and pizza, and door prizes.

To RSVP, contact , call (813) 448-1998, or text (352) 467-1883.

SCORE seminar
Pasco-Hernando State College Chapter of SCORE will have a free seminar on “How to Apply for a Business” on Jan. 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.

The seminar will cover start-ups, mature businesses and purchasing businesses. The discussion also will include sources of loans from $5,000 to $5 million.

For information, call (727) 842-4638, or visit PascoHernandoScore.org.

Chamber luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon on Jan. 14, with check-in at 11 a.m., at Brunchies Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch and Catering at 14366 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa. Networking is until 11:30 a.m., when lunch will be served from a select menu.

The guest speaker will be journalist and author Kristen Hare, who wrote “100 Things to do in Tampa Bay Before You Die.”

For information and to RSVP, call the chamber at (813) 961-2420, email , or visit NorthTampaChamber.com.

Using the Internet in business
Pasco-Hernando State College Chapter of SCORE will offer a free seminar on “Using the Internet in Your Business” on Jan. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New River Branch Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Zephyrhills.

The seminar will cover roles a website can support in enhancing your business. Those attending the session will be walked through an eight-step process of key activities that can help almost any business quickly leverage technology.

For information, call (727) 842-4638, or visit PascoHernandoScore.org.

Ribbon cutting
American Home Title of Land O’ Lakes will host a ribbon cutting for its remodeled office on Jan. 21 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 2047 Osprey Lane, in Lutz. Refreshments will be served.

For information, call American Title at (813) 948-1868.

 

April Sasser joins Moody D’Avirro
April Sasser is joining Moody D’Avirro & Associates as its producing sales agent. She brings more than 20 years experience to the company. Sasser specializes in homes, mobile homes, automobile, boat, commercial, worker’s compensation and builder’s risk insurance.

Moody D’Avirro is located at 24626 State Road 54 in Lutz.

For information, contact Sasser at (813) 973-0441, ext. 104, or .

 

 

Schaefer is marketing manager of the year
Jim Schaefer, president and owner of RealReach Marketing, is Marketing Manager of the Year selected by the Sales and Marketing Council of the Tampa Bay Builders Association.

RealReach also picked up awards for Best Online Ad, Best Corporate Video and Best Television Commercial.

Schaefer founded his company in 2012 as a full-service marketing and advertising company, located in Lutz. The company specializes in building responsive web sites, and promoting them through social media, email marketing, video, online search, and display advertising. The company also offers photography and videography services, graphic design and advertising strategies.

TBBA’s Sales and Marketing Council boasts memberships of more than 200 sales and marketing professionals from the Tampa Bay area.

County vacancy
Brian Head opted not to accept a position with Pasco County as public safety assistant county administrator. Head declined the offer for personal reasons, according to a news release from the county. The position has been reopened.

Head served 12 years with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office before retiring in 2013 with the rank of colonel. He currently is employed by Pasco-Hernando State College at its law enforcement academy.

Primerica ribbon cutting
Primerica will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting on Jan. 5 at 6 p.m., at its new location in Wisteria Plaza, at 6739 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Owners Lillian and Dave Cucuzza are regional vice presidents of the company that recently moved from Copperstone Executive Suites.

The free event will include refreshments, music and door prizes.

For information call (813) 929-7722.

Morning network
The Wednesday Morning Networking Group will meet Jan. 6 at 7:30 a.m., at The Lake House at Hungry Harry’s Family B-B-Q, at 3116 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Each attendee will be able to present a 30-second pitch. The $7 cost includes breakfast. Sponsorships are available.

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

Pigz’ breakfast
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will have the kick-off breakfast for the Sixth Annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Fest on Jan. 7 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at the Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills.

The annual pig jig will be Jan. 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport, 39450 South Ave., Zephyrhills.

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

Women-n-Charge luncheon
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Jan. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch and time to network. The guest speaker will be Sandra Miniere, of Integrative Wellness, with her presentation on “Success Begins with a Compelling Vision.”

The cost is $15 for members (Tuesday before the meeting), and $18 for all guests (and members paying Wednesday and after).

To register, visit Women-n-Charge.com. For information, call (813) 600-9848, or email .

Networking lunch
The East Pasco Networking Group will have its “Next Regular Exciting Meeting” on Jan. 12 at 11:30 a.m., at Blackstone’s Bar & Restaurant, 38361 County Road 54 in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker will be Ed Caum, Pasco County’s tourism director.

For information, email Nils Lenz at , or visit the group’s website at Meetup.com/EastPascoNetworkingGroup/.

After hours mixer
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a Chamber Chatter Connections mixer on Jan. 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Nabruzzi Trattoria, 6062 Van Dyke Road in Lutz. Cruise Planners is hosting the free event with a special presentation, wine and pizza, and door prizes.

To RSVP, contact , call (813) 448-1998, or text (352) 467-1883.

New leader
Pasco Economic Development Council’s board of directors tapped William “Bill” Cronin as their new president and chief executive officer. He will start on Jan. 19.

Cronin will replace John Hagen who retired in October.

For the past year, Cronin has served as economic director for Charlotte, North Carolina. His 25-year career also spans Florida, Georgia and South Carolina, where he has gained experience in business and economic development, international trade, logistics and operations, in both public and private sectors.

He served nine years with Enterprise Florida, specializing in international trade and business development.

The PEDC’s board of directors began a nationwide search in April. The search committee worked with Jorgenson Consulting, a national executive search firm specializing in nonprofit and economic development organizations.

The PEDC is a private, nonprofit organization that guides Pasco County in creation of a sustainable and diversified economy. For information about the PEDC, visit PascoEDC.com.

Lutz gets Planet Smoothies
Planet Smoothies is open at Sunlake Plaza, at 18845 State Road 54, in Lutz. The smoothie shop blends drinks such as Berry Bada-Bing, Lean Green Extreme and Rasmanian Devil. The franchise started in 1995 with one store in Atlanta.

Business challenge
The Pasco Economic Development Council will host its second annual SMARTstart Challenge business pitch competition on Feb. 25 in partnership with Saint Leo University’s student business plan competition. Local entrepreneurs will compete for a combined $10,000 in prize money.

The first-place winner will receive a six-month, on-site membership in a SMARTstart Pasco Business Incubator. There are two, one in Dade City and one in New Port Richey.

More than 20 start-up businesses competed in the inaugural event in 2015.

Applications will be evaluated on measures relating to important elements about the economics of the business and the ability of the applicant to be successful. Other considerations include market potential and research, the uniqueness of the business idea, evaluation of potential partners, financial plan and attractiveness of the business idea.

The application deadline is Jan. 8. Oral presentations of five minutes, with a question and answer period from a panel of judges, will be on Feb. 10. Five or six finalists will be selected for the final competition on Feb. 25.

The finals will be open to the public, with the first-place winner and runners-up announced at a reception following the presentations.

Applications are available online at SmartStartPasco.com.

For information about the challenge, call the SMARTstart Pasco Business incubators at (352) 437-4861, or email .

Doggie daycare opening
The Barkery Boarding & Daycare will have a ribbon cutting and grand opening on Dec. 27 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 5109 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz. The event is free and open to the public.

For information, call (813) 920-9800, or visit BarkeryBoarding.com.

Primerica ribbon cutting
Primerica will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting on Jan. 5 at 6 p.m., at its new location in Wisteria Plaza, at 6739 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Owners Lillian and Dave Cucuzza are regional vice presidents of the company that recently moved from Copperstone Executive Suites.

The free event will include refreshments, music and door prizes.

For information, call (813) 929-7722.

Grand opening for spa
The Spa Moritz will host its grand opening on Jan. 6 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 17401 Commerce Park Blvd., in New Tampa.

For information on this free event, call (813) 971-4772, or visit SpaMoritz.com.

Business classes
Pasco Economic Development Council will launch its next Co.Starters program on Jan. 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

The 10-week nationally known business development program helps business entrepreneurs with the insights, relationships and tools to turn business ideas into action. The classes, on Tuesday nights, are offered through the SMARTstart Pasco Business Incubator program.

A facilitator will lead the collaborative process with a small and supportive group of like-minded peers. The goal is to provide an understanding of how to create a sustainable business.

The cost is $295 for the 10-week program.

Preregistration is required.

For information contact Krista Covey, program director, at (727) 478-0670 or (352) 437-4861, or visit PascoEDC.com/incubator/events/co-starters.

Business loan workshop
Pasco-Hernando SCORE Chapter 439 will offer a workshop on “How to Apply for a Business Loan” on Jan. 13 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, at 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.

The free workshop will discuss a range of topics on loans from $5,000 to $5 million, including how to select a bank, what do lenders want, buying real estate for your business, and the importance of credit reports and scores.

The SCORE chapter, or Service Corps of Retired Executives, is composed of more than 20 volunteers with business experience.

For information, contact Ken Nadler at (727) 842-4638, or email .

Business challenge
The Pasco Economic Development Council will host its second annual SMARTstart Challenge business pitch competition on Feb. 25 in partnership with Saint Leo University’s student business plan competition. Local entrepreneurs will compete for a combined $10,000 in prize money.

The first-place winner will receive a six-month, on-site membership in a SMARTstart Pasco Business Incubator. There are two incubators, one in Dade City and one in New Port Richey.

More than 20 start-up businesses competed in the inaugural event in 2015.

Applications will be evaluated on measures relating to important elements about the economics of the business and the ability of the applicant to be successful. Other considerations include market potential and research, the uniqueness of the business idea, evaluation of potential partners, financial plan and attractiveness of the business idea.

The application deadline is Jan. 8. Oral presentations of five minutes with a question and answer period from a panel of judges will be on Feb. 10. Five or six finalists will be selected for the final competition on Feb. 25.

The finals will be open to the public, with the first-place winner and runners-up announced at a reception following the presentations.

Applications are available online at SmartStartPasco.com.

For information about the challenge, call the SMARTstart Pasco Business incubators at (352) 437-4861, or email .

CABA celebrates 30 years
The Carrollwood Area Business Association will celebrate its 30th year with “Holiday After 5” on Dec. 16 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Heritage Harbor Golf & Country Club, 19502 Heritage Harbor Parkway in Lutz.

The event will feature ’80s music, the best ’80s attire contest, a dance contest, food and more.

The event is open to members and guests, and members of the community that have supported CABA.

For information and registration, visit USEcaba.com.

Chamber mixer
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host a mixer on Dec. 17 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., hosted by Center State Bank at 6930 Gall Blvd.

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

Ribbon cutting
The Southern Sweetheart will have a ribbon cutting and open house on Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon, at 38424 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills. The business offers event planning, embroidery, country chic items and clothing. The event is free and open to the public.

For information call (813) 382-0230, email , or visit TheSouthernSweetheart.com.

Doggie daycare
The Barkery Boarding & Daycare will have a ribbon cutting and grand opening on Dec. 27 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 5109 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz. The event is free and open to the public.

For information, call (813) 920-9800, or visit BarkeryBoarding.com.

Grand opening
The Spa Moritz will host its grand opening on Jan. 6 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 17401 Commerce Park Blvd., in New Tampa.

For information on this free event, call (813) 971-4772 or visit SpaMoritz.com.

Networking lunch
The East Pasco Networking Group will have its “Next Regular Exciting Meeting” on Jan. 12 at 11:30 a.m., at Blackstone’s Bar & Restaurant, 38361 County Road 54 in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker will be Ed Caum, Pasco County’s tourism director.

For information, email Nils Lenz at , or visit the group’s website at Meetup.com/EastPascoNetworkingGroup/.

Business workshops
Pasco Economic Development Council will launch its next Co.Starters program on Jan. 12 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

The 10-week nationally known business development program helps business entrepreneurs with the insights, relationships and tools to turn business ideas into action. The classes, on Tuesday nights, are offered through the SMARTstart Pasco Business Incubator program.

A facilitator will lead the collaborative process with a small and supportive group of like-minded peers. The goal is to provide an understanding of how to create a sustainable business.

The cost is $295 for the 10-week program.

Preregistration is required.

For information contact Krista Covey, program director, at (727) 478-0670 or (352) 437-4861, or visit PascoEDC.com/incubator/events/co-starters.