Business Digest

Construction jobs increasing
The construction industry is facing a work force shortage with 86 percent of companies reporting difficulties in filling hourly and salaried positions, according to an October survey released by The Associated General Contractors of America.

But Doreen DiPolito, owner and president of D-Mar General Contracting and Development, sees that as an opportunity, especially for skilled workers.

“Today’s market conditions give skilled laborers the upper hand, allowing them to command better pay and perks,” DiPolito says in a Nov. 4 news release.

The Clearwater-based company currently is expanding its projects. Among its past projects was the LSG Sky Chefs kitchen at Tampa International Airport. D-Mar also has completed projects for Hess, Dunkin’ Brands, Burger King and Circle K.

The survey’s findings reveal that carpenters are in greatest demand with 73 percent of companies overall reporting a need to fill those positions.

Wages also are increasing for skilled workers, the survey says.

Fifty-six percent of companies are increasing base pay rates, 16 percent are paying more overtime, and 23 percent are providing bonuses, according to the survey.

Contractors are eager to hire new employees, which will lead to quicker build times, DiPolito says, in the release.

For more information, visit D-mar.com.

Sweets for the sweet
Delectable Delights is now open at 16541 Pointe Village Drive, Suite 110, in Lutz. The shop dishes up ice cream from Working Cow, and also offers cakes and pies, gourmet cookies, cake pops, candies and toys. The sweets selection is available at Northpointe Village Shopping Center, at the southwest corner of State Road 54 and Suncoast Parkway.

For information, call (813) 920-4200.

Terra Bella model home
Hovnanian Homes and the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a ribbon cutting at the Terra Bella community for its “Messina” model home on Nov. 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The model home is at 2300 Via Bella Blvd., off State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes. Refreshments will be served. Terra Bella is a master planned community, off State Road 54, near Livingston Road. The development is about 2 miles west of Interstate 75, conveniently located near major highways, dining, and shopping.

Business Link breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on Nov. 12 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Quality Inn & Suites, 6815 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills.

Come for tips and networking to strengthen your business. This monthly gathering, held at various locations, provides networking and an information-sharing platform for small businesses. A complimentary breakfast will be provided.

Please RSVP to Rebecca Gaddis at (352) 588-1356, or email .

Hispanic business luncheon
The Hispanic Business Leaders Luncheon will be on Nov. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Sponsors are the Pasco Hernando Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce.

Guest speakers will be representatives of Sunrise of Pasco County, Farm Worker Self Help, Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers and AmericanNow.

The cost is $20 for members, and $25 for non-members, but only $18 if prepaid. For information contact John Jay Anglada, at Finest DeeJays, at (813) 298-3232.

Uphill celebrates a year
UpHill Marketing Group will host a ribbon cutting and one-year anniversary on Nov. 17 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Delectable Delights, at 16541 Pointe Village Drive, Suite 110, in Lutz. Join owner Gayle Hill, who is celebrating one year in business and her new membership with Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce.

RSVP at UphillMarketingGroup.com, or call Gayle Hill at (813) 892-2545.

Ribbon cutting
Appliance World, a new member of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce, will have a ribbon cutting on Nov. 19 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 47643 State Road 54 in Zephyrhills. The business sells reconditioned appliances including refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers and dishwashers.

For information, call (813) 312-3885.

Network luncheon
Lunch ‘N Learn with the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce on Nov. 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the chamber boardroom, at 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 105. The guest speaker will be Thomas Giella, owner of Gear Spinners. He will offer tips on how to make your website and social media deliver a return on your investment.

The cost is $15, with lunch included. Register early, as seating is limited.

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

International award
The Pasco Economic Development Council received a Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award for Business Retention & Expansion-Single Event at this year’s International Economic Development Council Annual Conference.

The award honors the combined efforts of Pasco EDC with community partners, including Pasco County, New Port Richey, and Duke Energy, to keep Applicant Insight in New Port Richey. The company is the city’s largest employer.

“This award serves as a salute to pacesetting organizations like the Pasco Economic Development Council for leading the charge,” said JoAnn Carary, in a press release from Pasco EDC. Carary is chairwoman of International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and president of Saginaw Future Inc.

The IEDC is a nonprofit membership organization serving economic developers.

Representatives of Applicant Insight had begun to search new sites for relocation. But, Pasco EDC representatives met with company officials to discuss issues of concern, including the need for a larger facility, as well as crime and safety.

Instead of relocating, the company signed a lease on a new location in New Port Richey, which keeps 100 high-paying jobs in the area. Applicant Insight has increased jobs by nearly 30 percent with plans to expand in the future.

Job training
CareerSource Pasco Hernando received an $80,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, according to a news release from CareerSource. The funds are from a statewide Sector Partnership National Emergency Grant of nearly $7 million that is targeted at long-term unemployed individuals in health care and manufacturing. The funds will help transition 25 individuals who have been unemployed for longer than 20 weeks. Classroom instruction in manufacturing skills will be offered that will lead to an industry certification. Participants will then be eligible for short-term on-the-job training with a local manufacturer. First enrollments will be in February/March 2016.

For information, visit CareerSourcePascoHernando.com.

SBA award nominations open
The U.S. Small Business Administration is accepting nominations for its 2016 awards competition.

The SBA honors successes of small businesses and small business owners during “National Small Business Week.”

All nominations must be submitted no later than 3 p.m., Jan. 11, 2016.

For information about the awards, please visit SBA.gov/districtoffices.

Business workshops
Copperstone Executive Suites is collaborating with Lane Business Consulting to offer a yearlong intensive program called “The Business Mastery Academy.” Each month, the program includes two on-site workshops, one telephone conference call, and a one-on-one coaching session for each participant. Two business consultants and between 10 and 15 business owners will offer their expertise.

Copperstone Executive Suites is offering 10 to 15 grants of $600 each to business owners who complete an online application and are accepted into the program. The remaining monthly cost for the business owner is $47 per month.

For more information, and to apply for a grant, visit Copperstone.info, or call Copperstone Executive Suites at (813) 298-7363 or Lane Business Consulting at (813) 486-2837.

Flavor the Kona Ice
Wesley Chapel residents Matt and Katie Burnett are new owners of a Kona Ice business. Their mobile truck, with a tiki hut top, will be tooling through the Wesley Chapel area selling cups of shaved ice that come in more than 20 flavors and 500 combinations. Try out “pickle” and “tigers blood” as well as sugar-free and dye-free flavors. The Burnetts plan to give back to the community with school fundraising events. Schools can receive 20 percent to 30 percent of the proceeds. In addition, Kona Ice is available for corporate events, church events and birthday parties.

For information, visit Kona-ice.com, email the Burnetts at , or call (813) 812-5662.

Tommy Hilfiger plans ribbon cutting
Tommy Hilfiger, the designer clothing shop, will host a ribbon cutting on Nov. 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m., at the newly opened Tampa Premium Outlets, off State Road 56 near Interstate 75. The shop is among nearly 100 upscale retailers at the outlet mall, which had its grand opening weekend from Oct. 29 through Nov. 2.

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

Networking women
WOW, Women of Wesley Chapel will meet Nov. 6 from 7:45 a.m. to 9 a.m., in the second floor conference room at the Health and Wellness Center, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. The guest speaker will be Michele Norris, founder of Navigen Leadership.

For information, call the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534, or visit WesleyChapelChamber.com.

Women-n-Charge luncheon
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Nov. 6 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 Erin Bess of Simply the Best Photography, who will discuss how to “Showcase Your Business through Photography.”

The cost is $18 for members and guests.

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

Business seminars
SCORE Pasco Hernando will host two free seminar business-oriented seminars. The first seminar, “Understanding a Franchise Business,” will be held on Nov. 10 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, at 2818 Collier Parkway.

The second seminar, “How to Finance Your Business,” will be held on Nov. 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New River Branch Library, at 34043 State Road 54.

For information, call SCORE Pasco Hernando at (727) 842-4638, or visit PascoHernando.score.org.

Terra Bella model home
Hovnanian Homes will have a ribbon cutting at the Terra Bella community for its “Messina” model home on Nov. 12 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. The model home is at 2300 Via Bella Blvd., off State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes.

For information, contact the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 425-8747, or visit KHOV.com/terrabella.

Business Link breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on Nov. 12 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Quality Inn & Suites, 6815 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills.

Come for tips and networking to strengthen your business. This monthly gathering, held at various locations, provides networking and an information-sharing platform for small businesses. A complimentary breakfast will be provided.

Please RSVP to Rebecca Gaddis at (352) 588-1356, or email .

Job training
CareerSource Pasco Hernando received an $80,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, according to a news release from Career Source. The funds are from a statewide Sector Partnership National Emergency Grant of nearly $7 million that is targeted at long-term unemployed individuals in health care and manufacturing. The funds will help transition 25 individuals who have been unemployed for longer than 20 weeks. Classroom instruction in manufacturing skills will be offered that will lead to an industry certification. Participants will then be eligible for short-term on-the-job training with a local manufacturer. First enrollments will be in February/March 2016.

For information, visit CareerSourcePascoHernando.com.

Business workshops
Copperstone Executive Suites is collaborating with Lane Business Consulting to offer a yearlong intensive program called “The Business Mastery Academy.” Each month, the program includes two on-site workshops, one telephone conference call, and a one-on-one coaching session for each participant. Two business consultants and between 10 and 15 business owners will offer their expertise.

Copperstone Executive Suites is offering 10 to 15 grants of $600 each to business owners who complete an online application and are accepted into the program. The remaining monthly cost for the business owner is $47 per month.

For more information, and to apply for a grant, visit Copperstone.info, or call Copperstone Executive Suites at (813) 298-7363 or Lane Business Consulting at (813) 486-2837.

Physician welcomed
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce welcomed physician, Radu Mercea, at a ribbon cutting on Oct. 14. Mercea is the newest member of the Florida Hospital Zephyrhills Physician Group. His office is at 38240 Daughtery Road, in Zephyrhills.
Mercea has more than 30 years experience in general family medicine. He formerly served as chief resident in family medicine at McKeesport Hospital in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area. He volunteers in medical mission trips, and was a major for 12 years in the U.S. Air Force. He also is a youth soccer coach.
For information, contact Community Care at (813) 788-3582.

Dos tacos
Capital Tacos is serving its made-from-scratch menu at a new location in Wesley Chapel in the Cypress View Square Plaza, at 27209 State Road 56. Operating hours for now are limited to weekends, Friday to Sunday, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. The restaurant’s first location in Land O’ Lakes, at 6765 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., remains open. Restaurant reviews on Yelp Tampa Bay recently ranked Capital Tacos as the second best restaurant in the region. And, Business Insider reported the restaurant placed third among the top 50 restaurants reviewed by users of FourSquare.
For information, call (813) 973-3777 or visit www.facebook.com/capitaltacos2.

Chamber honors
The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Banquet and Community Awards Dinner on Oct. 15 at the Tampa Bay Golf and Country Club. The executive board for 2016 will be Randy Stovall, president; Randy Surber of Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, president-elect; Shauna McKinnon of Bayfront Health Dade City, vice president; Steve Hickman of First National Bank of Pasco, treasurer; Kelly Sinn of Sunrise of Pasco, secretary; Bobby Van Allen of Farm Bureau Insurance, immediate past president. Dr. Lisa Richardson of Pasco-Hernando State College and Jason Sasser of JSC Real Estate Group are new board members.
Winners of the 2015 Community Awards were Margaret Angell, owner of Angel Tea Room and president of the Dade City Merchants Association, Business Leader of the Year; Bob Larkin Construction and owner Bob Larkin, Small Business of the Year; Kiwanis Club of Dade City, Civic Association of the Year; Frank Notarianni, Chamber Ambassador of the Year; Bob Hatfield, Chamber Member of the Year; Ed Blommel, the Richard Tombrink Lifetime Achievement Award; Randy Surber, president of Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, President’s Award.

Business seminars
Rasmussen College will offer two small business seminars from Pasco-Hernando SCORE on Oct. 29 at 6014 U.S. 19, Suite 302, in New Port Richey. “How to Apply for a 501c3” will meet from 10 a.m. to noon, and “Understanding a Franchise Business” will meet from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Registration is required. The fee is $15 paid through PayPal.
For information, visit Score439.org, or call (727) 842-4638.

Networking women
WOW, Women of Wesley Chapel will meet Nov. 6 from 7:45 a.m. to 9 a.m., in the second floor conference room at the Health and Wellness Center, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. The guest speaker will be Michele Norris, founder of Navigen Leadership.
For information, call the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534, or visit WesleyChapelChamber.com.

Women-n-Charge luncheon
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Nov. 6 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 Erin Bess of Simply the Best Photography, who will discuss how to “Showcase Your Business through Photography.”
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 .

Job training
CareerSource Pasco Hernando received an $80,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, according to a news release from Career Source. The funds are from a statewide Sector Partnership National Emergency Grant of nearly $7 million that is targeted at long-term unemployed individuals in health care and manufacturing. The funds will help transition 25 individuals who have been unemployed for longer than 20 weeks. Classroom instruction in manufacturing skills will be offered that will lead to an industry certification. Participants will then be eligible for short-term on-the-job training with a local manufacturer. First enrollments will be in February/March 2016.
For information, visit CareerSourcePascoHernando.com.

Business workshops
Copperstone Executive Suites is collaborating with Lane Business Consulting to offer a yearlong intensive program called “The Business Mastery Academy.” Each month, the program includes two on-site workshops, one telephone conference call, and a one-on-one coaching session for each participant. Two business consultants and 10 to 15 business owners will offer their expertise.
Copperstone Executive Suites is offering 10 to 15 grants of $600 each to business owners who complete an online application and are accepted into the program. The remaining monthly cost for the business owner is $47 per month.
For more information, and to apply for a grant, visit Copperstone.info, or call Copperstone Executive Suites at (813) 298-7363, or Lane Business Consulting at (813) 486-2837.

Contest giveaway
CenterState Bank is sponsoring the “Community Act of Kindness Contest” through Oct. 30. One winner will be chosen at random to receive a $5,000 Publix gift card. CenterState Bank also will donate $5,000 in cash or a Publix gift card to a nonprofit food bank or charity for use in the county where the individual winner lives. Participating branches also will collect food for their local food banks.
Contest entries can be made in person at any CenterState Bank branch or wherever contest forms are available. A valid Florida identification and contact information are required for registration.
Complete contest rules are available at CenterStateBank.com.

SBA award nominations open
The U.S. Small Business Administration is accepting awards for its 2016 awards competition.
The SBA honors successes of small businesses and small business owners during “National Small Business Week.”
All nominations must be submitted no later than 3 p.m., Jan. 11, 2016.
For information about the awards, please visit the website at SBA.gov/districtoffices.

Ribbon cutting
Delectable Delights will have a ribbon cutting on Oct. 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at 16541 Pointe Village Drive in Lutz. The shop is in Northpointe Village on the south side of State Road 54, east of Suncoast Parkway.

For information, contact Delectable Delights at (813) 920-4200, or visit Facebook.com/DelectableDelights.

North Tampa luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a network luncheon on Oct. 22 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. Senior lunch menu will be available to all. Minimum payment of $5 is required if you do not order food, plus you must pay for your drinks.

For directions, call (813) 960-2679.

Manufacturing job fair
CareerSource will have a Manufacturing Job Fair on Oct. 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College, 450 Beverly Court, Room B105, in Spring Hill.

For information, job seekers should contact Margie Burnham at (727) 816-3227 or . Employers should contact Ana Segovia at (352) 293-1335 or .

Business seminars
Rasmussen College will offer two small business seminars from Pasco-Hernando SCORE on Oct. 29 at 6014 U.S. 19, Suite 302, in New Port Richey. “How to Apply for a 501c3” will meet from 10 a.m. to noon, and “Understanding a Franchise Business” will meet from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Registration is required. The fee is $15 paid through PayPal.

For information, visit Score439.org, or call (727) 842-4638.

Networking women
WOW, Women of Wesley Chapel will meet Nov. 6 from 7:45 a.m. to 9 a.m., in the second floor conference room at the Health and Wellness Center, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. The guest speaker will be Michele Norris, founder of Navigan Leadership.

For information, call the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534, or visit WesleyChapelChamber.com.

Women-n-Charge luncheon
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Nov. 6 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 Erin Bess of Simply the Best Photography, who will discuss how to “Showcase Your Business through Photography.”

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 .

Job training
CareerSource Pasco Hernando received an $80,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, according to a news release from Career Source. The funds are from a statewide Sector Partnership National Emergency Grant of nearly $7 million that is targeted at long-term unemployed individuals in health care and manufacturing. The funds will help transition 25 individuals who have been unemployed for longer than 20 weeks. Classroom instruction in manufacturing skills will be offered that will lead to an industry certification. Participants will then be eligible for short-term on-the-job training with a local manufacturer. First enrollments will be in February/March 2016.

For information, visit CareerSourcePascoHernando.com.

Business workshops
Copperstone Executive Suites is collaborating with Lane Business Consulting to offer a yearlong intensive program called “The Business Mastery Academy.” Each month, the program includes two on-site workshops, one telephone conference call, and a one-on-one coaching session for each participant. Two business consultants and 10 to 15 business owners will offer their expertise.

Copperstone Executive Suites is offering 10 to 15 grants of $600 each to business owners who complete an online application and are accepted into the program. The remaining monthly cost for the business owner is $47 per month.

For more information, and to apply for a grant, visit Copperstone.info, or call Copperstone Executive Suites at (813) 298-7363, or Lane Business Consulting at (813) 486-2837.

Contest giveaway
CenterState Bank is sponsoring the “Community Act of Kindness Contest” through Oct. 30. One winner will be chosen at random to receive a $5,000 Publix gift card. CenterState Bank also will donate $5,000 in cash or a Publix gift card to a nonprofit food bank or charity for use in the county where the individual winner lives. Participating branches also will collect food for their local food banks.

Contest entries can be made in person at any CenterState Bank branch or wherever contest forms are available. A valid Florida identification and contact information are required for registration.

Complete contest rules are available at CenterStateBank.com.

SBA award nominations open
The U.S. Small Business Administration is accepting awards for its 2016 awards competition.

The SBA honors successes of small businesses and small business owners during “National Small Business Week.”

All nominations must be submitted no later than 3 p.m., Jan. 11, 2016.

For information about the awards, please visit the website at SBA.gov/districtoffices.

Franchise seminar
Pasco-Hernando Chapter of Score will have a free workshop on “Understanding a Franchise Business” on Oct. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.

If you are starting a franchise business, thinking about changing your business or curious about how copyright and patent law may affect your business, this meeting will offer relevant information. Register and check latest information on the website at PascoHernando.score.org.

Fall mixer
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host its Fall Mixer on Oct. 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Rosecastle of Zephyrhills, at 37411 Eiland Blvd., in Zephyrhills. The free event will feature drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and a wine and cheese spread.

For information, and to RSVP, contact Tami at (813) 783-8100 or .

Bank ribbon cutting
Jefferson Bank of Florida will have a ribbon cutting on Oct. 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., at 15302 Amberly Drive in New Tampa. The branch office, which was sold earlier this year by the Bank of Tampa, is the first Hillsborough County location for Jefferson Bank.

For information, call the bank at (813) 979-4700, the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534, or email .

Hispanic business leaders luncheon
The October luncheon for the Hispanic Business Leaders will be Oct. 20 at a new location, the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

The luncheon is from 11:30 until 1 p.m.

It is open to everyone. Lunch is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. For additional information, call (813) 435-1499

Ribbon cutting
Delectable Delights will have a ribbon cutting on Oct. 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at 16541 Pointe Village Drive in Lutz. The shop is in Northpointe Village on the south side of State Road 54, east of Suncoast Parkway.

For information, contact Delectable Delights at (813) 920-4200 or visit Facebook.com/DelectableDelights.

North Tampa luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a network luncheon on Oct. 22 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. Senior lunch menu will be available to all. Minimum payment of $5 is required if you do not order food, plus you must pay for your drinks.

To RSVP by Oct. 20, email Jenn Beaumont at , or call AIG at (813) 334-8998. For directions, call (813) 960-2679.

Manufacturing job fair
CareerSource will have a Manufacturing Job Fair on Oct. 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College, 450 Beverly Court, Room B105, in Spring Hill.

For information, job seekers should contact Margie Burnham at (727) 816-3227 or . Employers should contact Ana Segovia at (352) 293-1335 or .

Business seminars
Rasmussen College will offer two small business seminars from Pasco-Hernando SCORE on Oct. 29 at 6014 U.S. 19, Suite 302, in New Port Richey.

“How to Apply for a 501c3” will meet from 10 a.m. to noon, and “Understanding a Franchise Business” will meet from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Registration is required. The fee is $15 paid through PayPal.

For information, visit Score439.org, or call (727) 842-4638.

Job training
CareerSource Pasco Hernando received an $80,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Labor, according to a Sept. 24 news release from Career Source. The funds are from a statewide Sector Partnership National Emergency Grant of nearly $7 million that is targeted at long-term unemployed individuals in health care and manufacturing. The funds will help transition 25 individuals who have been unemployed for longer than 20 weeks. Classroom instruction in manufacturing skills will be offered that will lead to an industry certification. Participants will then be eligible for short-term on-the-job training with a local manufacturer. First enrollments will be in February/March 2016.

For information, visit CareerSourcePascoHernando.com.

Business workshops
Copperstone Executive Suites is collaborating with Lane Business Consulting to offer a yearlong intensive program called “The Business Mastery Academy.” Each month, the program includes two on-site workshops, one telephone conference call, and a one-on-one coaching session for each participant. Two business consultants and 10 to 15 business owners will offer their expertise.

Copperstone Executive Suites is offering 10 to 15 grants of $600 each to business owners who complete an online application and are accepted into the program. The remaining monthly cost for the business owner is $47 per month.

For more information, and to apply for a grant, visit Copperstone.info, or call Copperstone Executive Suites at (813) 298-7363, or Lane Business Consulting at (813) 486-2837.

Florida on upswing
Twelve of Florida’s metropolitan areas grew at a faster rate than the rest of the nation in 2014 in terms of gross domestic product, according to a news release from Gov. Rick Scott’s office.

Based on growth in domestic product, the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area, which includes Pasco County, grew by 2.7 percent, compared to the previous year.

The fastest-growing area in the state was the Naples-Immokalee-Marco Island metropolitan area, which had a 5.6 percent increase.

Jacksonville had a 2.9 percent increase.

Florida had the largest real GDP in the nation in 2014 at nearly $770 billion, up 2.7 percent, the release said.

Business workshops
Copperstone Executive Suites is collaborating with Lane Business Consulting to offer a yearlong intensive program called “The Business Mastery Academy.” Each month, the program includes two on-site workshops, one telephone conference call, and a one-on-one coaching session for each participant. Two business consultants and 10 to 15 business owners will offer their expertise.

Copperstone Executive Suites is offering 10 to 15 grants of $600 each to business owners who complete an online application and are accepted into the program. The remaining monthly cost for the business owner is $47 per month.

For more information, and to apply for a grant, visit Copperstone.info, or call Copperstone Executive Suites at (813) 298-7363, or Lane Business Consulting at (813) 486-2837.

Contest giveaway
CenterState Bank is sponsoring the “Community Act of Kindness Contest” through Oct. 30. One winner will be chosen at random to receive a $5,000 Publix gift card. CenterState Bank also will donate $5,000 in cash or a Publix gift card to a nonprofit food bank or charity for use in the county where the individual winner lives. Participating branches also will collect food for their local food banks.

Contest entries can be made in person at any CenterState Bank branch or wherever contest forms are available. A valid Florida identification and contact information are required for registration.

Complete contest rules are available at CenterStateBank.com.

Wednesday Morning networking
The Wednesday Morning Networking group will meet Oct. 7 at 7:30 a.m., at The Lake House at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que, at 3116 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Each attendee will be able to present a 30-second commercial. The $7 cost includes breakfast.

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

Chamber luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon on Oct. 8, with check-in at 11a.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 Dexter Lewis, director of partnerships with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay.

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

Annual breakfast
Opening Doors Worldwide will host its annual “Businessman/Businesswoman’s Breakfast” on Oct. 14 from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the Alice Hall Community Center, at 38116 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills. The buffet will include many homemade items such as quiche, banana muffins, home fries, grits, biscuits and gravy, and more. The cost is $10 per person. A reserved “table sponsor” with your company’s name is $100. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Event sponsors are CenterState Bank and Pasco Cardiology Associates.

For information, contact , or call toll free (844) 676-3667.

Business Link breakfast
Business Link will have its monthly networking breakfast on Oct. 14 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Saint Leo University, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo.

Come for tips and networking to strengthen your business. This monthly gathering, held at various locations, provides networking and an information-sharing platform for our small business community. A complimentary breakfast will be provided.

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

Franchise seminar
Pasco-Hernando Chapter of Score will have a free workshop on “Understanding a Franchise Business” on Oct. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.

If you are starting a franchise business, thinking about changing your business or curious about how copyright and patent law may affect your business, this meeting will offer relevant information. Register and check latest information on the website at PascoHernando.score.org.

Home loans for moderate-income buyers
Pasco County Community Development has announced the release of Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP) Funds for moderate-income homebuyers effective Oct. 1.

Reservations can be submitted prior to that date for contracts signed on or before Oct. 1, but closings cannot occur until on or after Oct. 1

For more information, contact Michelle Miller or Louise McIntyre at (727) 834-3445.

Contest giveaway
CenterState Bank is sponsoring the “Community Act of Kindness Contest” through Oct. 30. One winner will be randomly chosen to receive a $5,000 Publix gift card. CenterState Bank also will donate $5,000 in cash or a Publix gift card to a nonprofit food bank or charity for use in the county where the individual winner lives. In addition, participating branches will collect food for their local food banks.

Contest entries can be made in person at any CenterState Bank branch or wherever contest forms are available. A valid Florida identification and contact information are required for registration.

Complete contest rules are available at CenterStateBank.com.

Zephyrhills breakfast network
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host its monthly breakfast meeting on Oct. 1 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

The guest speakers will be Robert DeMeo and Scott Chittum who will discuss the upcoming open enrollment for Medicare Advantage and for major medical (non-Medicare households).

The cost is $7 for members, and $10 for non-members.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 278-1913, or email .

National Manufacturing Day
CareerSource Pasco Hernando and Pasco-Hernando State College will celebrate its third annual Manufacturing Day on Oct. 2 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with tours of local manufacturers. In 2014, Florida hosted more registered events than any state in the nation on National Manufacturing Day, according to mfgday.com.

For information about Florida Manufacturing Day tour locations and times, contact Pasco-Hernando State College by email at or call (727) 816-3227, or call CareerSource Pasco Hernando at (352) 200-3020.

Women-n-Charge luncheon
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Oct. 2 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek County Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch and time to network. The guest speaker will be April Saland of A. L. Saland Insurance. Her topic will be “Did You Know,” about the upcoming health insurance laws and regulations.

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 to .

Networking women
WOW, Women of Wesley Chapel, will meet Oct. 2 from 7:45 a.m. to 9 a.m., in the second floor conference room at the Health and Wellness Center, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. The guest speaker will be Miranda Reiter of Raymond James.

For information, call the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce at (813) 994-8534, or visit WesleyChapelChamber.com.

Breakfast club
The Wesley Chapel Breakfast is scheduled to meet Oct. 7 at 7:30 a.m., at Quail Hollow Golf and Country Club, at 6225 Old Pasco Road. The club brings business people together to network and share marketing ideas. You will have a chance to present your business to the group. The club has no officers and no dues. Meetings are on the first and third Wednesdays of each month, but call in advance to confirm.

For questions, or to confirm, call (813) 992-3370.

Chamber luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon on Oct. 8, with check-in at 11a.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 Dexter Lewis, director of partnerships with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay.

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

Annual breakfast
Opening Doors Worldwide will host its annual “Businessman/Businesswoman’s Breakfast” on Oct. 14 from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the Alice Hall Community Center, at 38116 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills. The buffet will include many homemade items such as quiche, banana muffins, home fries, grits, biscuits and gravy and more. The cost is $10 per person. A reserved “table sponsor” with your company’s name is $100. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Event sponsors are CenterState Bank and Pasco Cardiology Associates.

For information, contact , or call toll free (844) 676-3667.

 

Model homes
The Texas-based real estate firm, Hines, recently announced the groundbreaking by Ashton Woods and David Weekley, of model homes at Asturia, a master-planned community on State Road 54, west of Suncoast Parkway. Asturia will build three model homes; David Weekly will build four model homes. According to a news release from Hines, the homebuilders will provide homes with multiple styles of design that will give homebuyers different pricing options.

Ashton Woods’ homes will include floor plans ranging from 1,962 square feet to more than 2,400 square feet. Its three model homes are scheduled to open in the fall.

David Weekley will feature homes from the builder’s Cottage, Garden, Lake Manor and Park Series. The first model home is scheduled for completion by November, with construction on the remaining three model homes slated to begin this fall.

A community center in Asturia also is under construction and will open in 2016.

The mixed-use, master-planned community will feature parks, trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, a fitness center and a resort-style swimming pool. Hines currently is marketing the community to developers, retailers and others for shops, offices and multifamily sites.

For information, visit AsturiaFlorida.com, AshtonWoods.com, DavidWeekleyHomes.com, or Hines.com.

New home design
Pulte Homes unveiled a new three-bedroom Rosemont floor plan at Country Walk, off Meadow Pointe Boulevard, south of State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, according to a news release from Larry Vershel Communications. The plan offers an open space design, but according to Sean Strickler, president of Pulte Group-West Florida Division, it has a twist: a smaller, smarter open space with plenty of family privacy. A massive family living area includes a kitchen with island option that serves as a great room, dining nook and patio. Two additional bedrooms and a bath are near the front of the house, which has more than 1,600 square feet and a two-car garage.

Pulte is building 32 new three- and four-bedroom homes at Country Walk, ranging in size from more than 1,600 square feet to nearly 2,500 square feet. Country Walk homes are priced from $219,990.

The subdivision features a 5,000-square-foot clubhouse, two swimming pools, tennis courts, basketball court, outdoor covered playground, and fitness center.

For information about Pulte Homes, visit Pulte.com.

Bank ribbon cutting
Bank of America hosted a ribbon cutting on Sept. 2 for a new branch office at 28580 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. The branch opened on Aug. 3. Bank representatives presented a $500 check to Arts in Motion, a nonprofit community youth theater and arts education organization.

Land O’ Lakes Optical open house
Land O’ Lakes Optical is opening on Sept. 17 and is celebrating with an open house. The public is invited to meet Dr. Jose Santos and his staff from noon to 8 p.m., at the office, 19455 Shumard Oak Drive. The event will include refreshments, a tour of the facility, giveaways, and information about services and products. Dr. Santos also has a clinic in Tampa.

Bayfront open house
Bayfront Health and Medical Group will host an open house and ribbon cutting on Sept. 22 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 6340 Fort King Road in Zephyrhills. Come welcome new physicians, Elizabeth and Tommy John, who specialize in internal medicine and gastroenterology.

To RSVP, call (813) 782-6116.

East Pasco Networking
The East Pasco Networking Group will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Sept. 22 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Rose’s Café, at 38426 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker will be Pastor Scott Lindner of Atonement Lutheran Church.

For information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 997-3903 or .

Ribbon cutting/grand opening
New Leaf Chiropractic Wellness Center will have a ribbon cutting on Sept. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and a grand opening on Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 20290 Osprey Lane in Lutz. Come and meet Dr. Michael J. Pease.

The grand opening will feature food, drawings, giveaways, health screenings, and product samples. There will be a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. A fundraiser for Tampa Leadership and Philanthropy will benefit local veterans.

For information, contact New Leaf at (813) 254-2500.

Asturia community center
Construction is under way on a community center in Asturia, the mixed-use, master-planned community on State Road 54, west of Suncoast Parkway, according to a news release from Hines Inc. The Texas-based real estate firm is developing Asturia on more than 500 acres of the former Behnke Ranch, located between two other master-planned communities — Starkey Ranch to the west and Bexley Ranch to the east.

The 5,800-square-foot facility will include a clubhouse, state-of-the-art fitness center, covered outdoor living rooms, a resort-style swimming pool, and an expansive lawn for recreation. Centrally located within Asturia, the community center will feature a modern architectural design with a shed-style roof, open floor plans and floor-to-ceiling facades and wood accents.

The fitness center will offer a range of aerobic and strength-training equipment. The zero-entry pool will provide areas for swimming laps and passive swimming, and a resort-style pool deck for lounging.

The community center is expected to open in early 2016.

The Asturia community will feature parks, green spaces, trails and interactive children’s play structures. Ashton Woods and David Weekley Homes are building homes, and each will provide a model home for inspection by prospective homebuyers.

Hines is a private, global real estate investment firm founded in 1957, with locations in 185 cities in 19 countries.

For information, visit AsturiaFlorida.com, or call (813) 227-4148.

Wesley Chapel chamber’s new executive board
The Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce has appointed a new executive board.

Incoming chairman of the board is Tracy Clouser, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. Assisting Clouser are three vice chairs: Steve Domonkos, The Shops at Wiregrass, Economic Development; Jennifer Cofini, Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel, Community Development; and Mercedes Gonzalez Hale, Esq., Law Offices of Mercedes Gonzalez Hale, P.A., Membership Development.

Three chamber members were recognized during the meeting:

• Board Member of the Year — Jennifer Cofini, Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel
• Ambassador of the Year —Valarie Rudmin, Everlasting Beauty
• Outgoing Board Member — Rob Kellog, Thread Art

The group also welcomed as a new board member Zacharias J Kalarickal, DDS, Wesley Chapel Dentistry.

Organic baby food
Beech-Nut and Target are teaming up to give parents a new shopping item – organic food for babies, according to a news release from FleishmanHillard for Beech-Nut. Two area stores are among 300 select Target locations that now offer 12 blends of organic fruits and vegetables for babies from Beech-Nut Organics.

The locations are 1040 Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz and 16400 State Road 54 in Odessa.

According to the news release, Beech-Nut is inspired by parents making homemade baby food with unique food combinations and high quality ingredients.

And, perhaps Diane Keaton should get a shout out, too, for her 1987 romantic comedy, Baby Boom.

In that film, Keaton is a stressed out corporate executive who inherits a baby, moves into a repair-challenged Vermont farmhouse and starts a homemade baby food line. Oh, and she romances local veterinarian, Sam Shepard. (You may want to check it out. There’s a young James Spader there, too.)

The Organics line from Beech-Nut comes in transparent honeypot glass jars and features the USDA-certified seal. On its menu are single blends “just sweet potatoes” and “just pears.” There also are combinations such as “just apple, raspberry and avocado.”

For information, visit Facebook.com/BeechNut, or @BeechNutFoods (Twitter and Instagram).

Free workshop
SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) Pasco Hernando will host a free workshop on Sept. 10 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Zephyrhills. The workshop called In Search of WOW will help people and businesses that want to take customer service to the next level.

For information, visit PascoHernando.Score.org.

Hispanic market
SMARTstart Dade City Incubator will have a seminar on the 10 Myths to Reach Hispanic Marketing on Sept. 15 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 15000 Citrus Country Drive, Suite 103, Dade City. The Hispanic population in the United States has doubled in the last decade, but the community often is underrepresented in the media. Business owner Rosie Paulsen will provide insight into understanding how to effectively reach the Hispanic market.

Paulsen will also host this seminar on Sept. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the SMARTsmart New Port Richey Incubator, at 6345 Grand Blvd., in New Port Richey.

For information, call (813) 345-4331.

Adventure park opens
TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park will open Sept. 15, at 27839 Saint Joe Road in Dade City. Come climb and zip line through eight different color-coded courses designed for beginners through advance adventurers. The courses offer 100 unique elements for ages 5 through adult. No reservations are required. Group rates are available. The park will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For information, call (813) 381-5400, or visit TreeHoppers.com.

Open house
Retina Specialists of Tampa will host an open house and ribbon cutting on Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 26851 Tanic Drive, Suite 102, in Wesley Chapel.

Come meet ophthalmologist, Ahmad Bakir Tarabishy, and his staff members.

For information, call (813) 973-3333, or visit RetinaCareTampa.com.

 

Ribbon cutting
Thurow Financial Services will have a ribbon cutting and fifth anniversary celebration on Sept. 3 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Copperstone Executive Suites, 3632 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Refreshments will be provided.

For information, call Chris Thurow at (813) 406-4436.

Annual banquet
The 29th Annual Pasco Economic Development Council Banquet will be Sept. 3 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel. More than 700 local and Tampa Bay business and community leaders attend each year.

The event includes an awards ceremony, an industry trade show and a brief report on economic development progress. Channel 10 reporter and news anchor Tammie Fields is the emcee.

Job fair
Leggett & Platt will be hosting a job fair on Sept. 3 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., with expectations of immediately hiring 60 people immediately. The company recently announced plans to open a plant in Spring Hill to assemble adjustable beds for use in the home.

Employees can expect a competitive wage, and a benefits package including health and dental insurance; holiday and vacation pay; and short term disability.

Positions include: line assemblers, material handlers, maintenance Tech/PLC, material planner, IT technician, production supervisors and tag (inventory control).

Job descriptions are available for all positions at EmployFlorida.com. Log on and search for Leggett & Platt in Spring Hill.

Walk-ins are welcome. The event will be at Leggett & Platt Adjustable Bed Group, 15800 Hudson Ave., Spring Hill.

For employment information, call Nathan Stevens of CareerSource Pasco Hernando State College at (352) 585-5117.

Women-n-Charge luncheon
Join the ladies of Women-n-Charge on Sept. 4 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek County Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch and time to network. This meeting will feature tea trivia and games, as well as a hat contest. All guests are encouraged to wear their western or tea attire in the spirit of our upcoming mystery tea fundraiser.

The cost is $18 for those who have not pre-paid. To register, visit Women-n-Charge.com. For information, call (813) 600-9848, or email to .

Networking women
WOW, Women of Wesley Chapel, will meet on Sept. 4 from 7:45 a.m. to 9 a.m., in the second floor conference room at the Health and Wellness Center, Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel. The breakfast sponsor is Valerie Rudmin, owner of Everlasting Beauty.

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

Adventure park opens
TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park will open Sept. 15, at 27839 Saint Joe Road in Dade City. Come climb and zipline through eight different color-coded courses designed for beginners through advance adventurers. The courses offer 100 unique elements for ages 5 through adult. No reservations are required. Group rates are available. The park will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For information, call (813) 381-5400, or visit TreeHoppers.com.

Networking breakfast
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet Sept. 8 at Rose’s Café at 38426 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills.

Networking begins at 8 a.m., with the meeting starting at 8:30 a.m.

The guest speaker will be Pasco County Commissioner Mike Wells, Jr.

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

Membership meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its 2015 Membership Meeting Lunch on Sept. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Stage Left, 24400 State Road 54 in Lutz. The guest speaker will be State Sen. John Legg.

The cost is $20 for RSVP by Sept. 4, and $25 after.

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

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

Come for tips and networking to strengthen your business. San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union is committed to the financial success of your business. This monthly gathering, held at various locations, provides networking and an information-sharing platform for our small business community. A complimentary breakfast will be provided.

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

Open house
Retina Specialists of Tampa will host an open house and ribbon cutting on Sept. 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 26851 Tanic Drive, Suite 102, in Wesley Chapel.

Come meet ophthalmologist, Ahmad Bakir Tarabishy, and his staff members.

For information, call (813) 973-3333, or visit RetinaCareTampa.com.

Bayfront ribbon cutting
Bayfront Health and Medical Group will host an open house and ribbon cutting on Sept. 22 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 6340 Fort King Road in Zephyrhills. Come welcome new physicians, Elizabeth and Tommy John, who specialize in internal medicine and gastroenterology.

Please RSVP to (813) 782-6116.