The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Business Digest

Business Digest 03/20/2024

By

Karen Haines

New human resources director
Vistra Communications, of Lutz, has appointed Karen Hanes, MBA, SPHR, as its new human resources director. Hanes brings more than 20 years of applied and instructional HR business experience to Vistra, according to a news release.

NTBC Lunch N Learn
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Lunch N Learn with Mike Gross, owner of Outplay Marketing, on March 21 at 11:30 a.m., at the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce at Signature Workspace, 28210 Paseo Ave., Suite 190, in Wesley Chapel. Admission is $15 per person, and more information can be found at northtampabaychamber.com

Openings and ribbon-cuttings
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host these upcoming events:

  • Andy’s Frozen Custard will host a grand opening of its Odessa location on March 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 13402 Pine Gap Spur. In honor of the opening, Andy’s will offer one-topping sundaes for $1, all day, at both the new Odessa location and the Clearwater location.
  • Integrative Health, 17724 Hunting Bow Circle, Unit 101, in Lutz, will have a grand opening on March 26 at 4 p.m. Visit IntegrativeHealthFl.com.
  • Maeva Modern Apartments, 3000 Grand Cypress Drive in Lutz, will have a ribbon-cutting on April 4 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Light refreshments and wine tasting will be available. Admission is free. For information, visit www.LiveAtMaeva.com, or call 813-945-6695.

Magdalene Office Center opens
The Magdalene Office Center, a suburban lakefront office complex at 15436 N. Florida Ave., in north Tampa, is now open for business and accepting new tenants. The two-building complex offers flexible layouts, as well as private balconies and patios, a courtyard, green lawns and shade trees, water views, and easy access to residential communities and Interstate 275. Magdalene Office Center is managed by Nathan Gennara with A.L Commercial. Call 813-334-6455.

Boots to Business webinar
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will offer a free Boots to Business (B2B) Reboot Webinar for Veteran Beginning Farmers and Ranchers on April 8 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

B2B is an entrepreneurial education and training program offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) as part of the Department of Defense Transition Assistance Program. The course provides an overview of entrepreneurship and applicable business ownership fundamentals.

This one-day, virtual session will feature speakers from the USDA, farmer veteran business owners, SBA resource partners and industry experts from across the country. Topics will include:

  • What is entrepreneurship?
  • Evaluating a business opportunity
  • Doing your market research: who is buying what you are growing/raising?
  • Selecting the correct legal structure for your farm/ranch
  • The economics of agricultural
  • Business planning: from idea to road map
  • Financing your venture: short-term and long-range
  • SBA/USDA resources for you

Active-duty service members (including National Guard and Reserve), veterans of all eras, and spouses are eligible to participate.

For information and to register, visit https://tinyurl.com/2p8b8wd8.

Business Digest 03/06/2024

By

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on March 12 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City. 

Speakers will include Melonie Monson, past Zephyrhills chamber director/CEO, mayor of Zephyrhills; Dr. Randall Stovall, PHSC provost dean emeritus, chairman of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce; and Kathryn Starkey, Pasco County commissioner, District No. 3.

For more information, contact Nils Lenz at 813-782-9491 or .

Collaborative Center looks for feedback
A new survey launched on Feb. 29 to seek input from the small businesses that use the Entrepreneur Collaborative Center to learn how the ECC can more effectively serve small businesses and facilitate growth, according to a news release. The survey will help ECC leaders better communicate events and continue to grow the offerings for entrepreneurs, the release says.

Hillsborough entrepreneurs and small business owners can take the survey until March 14, through this link: https://hillsboroughcounty.us5.list-manage.com/track/click?u=25be437fec610a7fad7518885&id=314bab7570&e=b312e4fc79

Contractors sought for construction projects
Hillsborough County is seeking qualified firms to partner with for construction projects. The county has budgeted $1.6 billion for Fiscal Year 24 for Capital Improvement Program projects. The projects range from sidewalk repairs and stormwater repair and replacement, to large design build projects.

The county’s website, HCFL.gov/Vendors, lists current procurement bidding opportunities, according to a news release.

For questions, contact Hillsborough County Procurement Services at 813-272-5790 or .

RP&G Printing celebrates 40 years
RP&G Printing will celebrate its 40th anniversary on March 21 at 5:30 p.m., at 4450 Pet Lane, Suite 106, in Lutz. The free event will feature refreshments, giveaways, equipment demos, and more.

RSVP by March 7 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rpg-printing-40th-anniversary-celebration-tickets-828620314667.

Economic Development Briefing
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will hold an economic development briefing on March 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The meeting provides chamber members with up-to-date information on economic development activities going on in the North Tampa Bay area.

The guest speaker this month will be J.D. Porter, owner/developer of Wiregrass Ranch.

The briefing will be at the NTBC Office @ Signature Workspace,The Shops at Wiregrass, 28210 Paseo Ave., #190, in Wesley Chapel.

RSVP at https://northtampabaychamber.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register.

For more information, email Jen Tussing at .

Business Digest 02/21/2024

By

Bill Cronin, left, and Skip Skairus hold a check representing a $5,000 donation to the Pasco Economic Development Council’s SMARTstart Microloan Program. Cronin is the president/CEO of Pasco EDC and Skairus is the regional vice president of SouthState Bank. (Courtesy of Pasco Economic Development Council)

SouthState Bank supports SMARTstart microloans
SouthState Bank has donated $5,000 to the Pasco Economic Development Council’s SMARTstart Microloan Program, bringing the bank’s total donations to the program to $55,000, according to a news release.

The program, which began in 2011, provides a source of funding for qualifying entrepreneurs who want to start to expand their businesses.

SouthState has been contributing to the microloan program since its inception.

“We are excited to see the true impact donations like this make in the Pasco County entrepreneurial community,” Skip Skairus, regional president of SouthState, said in the release from Pasco EDC.

“The Microloan Fund provides loans to businesses who are beginning their entrepreneurial journeys, and we would not be able to support them without the help of the local community through donations like these,” Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC president/CEO, added, in the release.

Since the program began, it has assisted over 75 local businesses and created over 260 jobs.

For additional details, visit SmartStartPasco.com/microloan, or contact Dan Mitchell, the SMARTstart program director, at .

Local business networking breakfast
The Starkey Ranch Library Theatre Cultural Center will host a free networking breakfast for local businesses featuring information resources available through the Pasco public library system and through Pasco County that help businesses meet their goals. Those attending are encouraged to bring business cards and promotional materials about their businesses.

The session will be on Feb. 29 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at the library, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, in Odessa. Registration is required. Email Jayde Archbold for more information at .

Reporters receive ‘Climate Champion’ awards
Jessica Meszaros and Steve Newborn have been selected to receive “Climate Awards” from the Climate Adaption Center (CAC) for their expansive coverage of the impact of climate change on Florida residents, animals and landscapes, according to a news release.

“Steve and Jessica are tremendous reporters who continue to serve this region with extraordinary research and reporting, and we are thrilled that the CAC is recognizing them with these awards,” WUSF General Manager JoAnn Urofsky said, in the release. “Florida faces serious threats from climate change and helping the residents of Florida understand these challenges is an important part of our mission.”

The awards were expected to be delivered at a gala in downtown Sarasota on Feb. 15.

SCORE webinars
SCORE provides free business mentors and webinars that focus on specific topics aimed at helping businesses to thrive. Here are some upcoming webinars:

  • Feb. 27, 1 p.m.: Business insurance basics: What you need to know
  • March 7, 1 p.m.: How to create a budget that works for you
  • March 12, 1 p.m.: Social media marketing strategies for your small business

Go to SCORE.org/pascohernando to register, or email or call 727-842-4638 for more information. 

HART recognized for financial reporting excellence
The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the Hillsborough Transit Authority (HART), according to a news release from HART. The GFOA Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, the release says. The award recognizes HART’s Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2022. Visit GoHART.org for more information.

Zephyrhills chamber breakfast
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce has its breakfast meeting at 7 a.m. on the first Thursday of each month at the Golden Corral, 6877 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills. The cost is $15.  

Economic development briefing
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host an economic development briefing featuring J.D. Porter, the owner/developer of Wiregrass Ranch and the founder of the Wiregrass Ranch Foundation. The session is set for March 12 from 11:30 to 1 p.m., at NTBC at Signature Workspace at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28210 Paseo Ave., No. 190, in Wesley Chapel. RSVPs are required. Email for more information.

GROW Pasco
Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about a wide array of business topics at Grow Pasco, which is set for March 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, in San Antonio. Grow Pasco features 15 breakout sessions, led by some of the best business minds in the area. Go to the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com, to find out more about the topics, the speakers and how to register. 

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group invites speakers in on a variety of topics and gives people a chance to do some networking of their own. The group’s meeting begins at 7:30 a.m., at the IHOP in Dade City, 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City. Here is its list of upcoming speakers:

March 12:  Melonie Monson, past executive director/CEO of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce and mayor of Zephyrhills; Randy Stover, provost dean emeritus of Pasco-Hernando State College; Kathryn Starkey, Pasco County Commission, District 3

April 9:  Dr. John Legg, candidate for Pasco County Schools Superintendent; Christopher and Tammi Dester, director and founder of the Academy of Spectrum Diversity

May 14: Madonna Wise, retired educator and author

June 11: Peter Castellani, founder and director of Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers; Amy Yarborough, director of the Pregnancy Care Center; Dr. Chris Dunning, candidate for Pasco County Schools Superintendent

July 9: Mike Fasano, Pasco County tax collector; Vicki Wiggins, CEO, the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

Aug. 13: Bill Cronin, president and CEO of Pasco Economic Development Council

Sept. 10: Brian Corley, Pasco County Supervisor of Elections

Oct. 8:  Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

Nov. 12: Todd Vande Berg, planning director of the City of Zephyrhills

Contact Nils R. Lenz at 813-782-9491 or , or any of the board members for suggested topics that you would like to hear about or to suggest specific speakers. If you would like to speak, contact the networking group now to schedule a time during the group’s meetings.

Pasco EDC seeks NetFest sponsors
The Pasco Economic Development Council is seeking sponsors for NetFest 2024. For more information, contact Amber Lake at .

Business Digest 02/14/2024

By

Martin Frame has been promoted to regional land director for the southeastern region of David Weekley Homes. (Courtesy of David Weekley Homes)

New regional land director
Martin Frame has been promoted to regional director of land for the southeastern region for David Weekley Homes, according to a news release.

The company is one of the nation’s largest privately held homebuilders.

Frame joined the David Weekley Homes Tampa division in 2015 as a land acquisition manager, the release says. He is credited with being instrumental in the growth of the market share for the Tampa and Sarasota metropolitan statistical areas.

In his new role as regional director of land, Frame will partner with medium and large projects throughout the Charleston, Jacksonville, Orlando and Tampa areas.

“I’m passionate about helping our company grow and look forward to finding more opportunities to build new communities,” Frame said, in the release. “I’m excited to provide even more award-winning homes to buyers.”

Showcase of opportunities
The construction of Orlando Health Hospital in Wesley Chapel is creating new opportunities for local businesses. The North Tampa Bay Chamber, Turner Construction, trade partners and community leaders are planning a day of networking, procurement opportunities and an informational panel.

The event will be on Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Porter Campus of Pasco-Hernando State College, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. The event will include a tabletop expo and trade partner networking, lunch and a panel discussion with community partners.

Cost is $25, which includes lunch. Visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com for more information.

International Tourism & Trade Day
Registration is open for Pasco County International Tourism & Trade Day. The event will bring together Pasco County business leaders, international resource partners and exporters. It offers opportunities to learn about resources available to help Pasco businesses expand their business through exporting. 

There will be a panel discussion featuring Pasco County businesses who have participated in trade missions and with resource partners who made that possible. There also will be opportunities to meet resource partners to assist with international business development, and information will be shared about an upcoming trade mission to Canada.

The event is set for Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Florida Avenue Brewing Company, 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, in Wesley Chapel. Seating is limited and a complimentary lunch will be provided.

For more information, reach out to .

GROW Pasco
Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about a wide array of business topics at Grow Pasco, which is set for March 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, in San Antonio. Grow Pasco features 15 breakout sessions, led by some of the best business minds in the area. Go to the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com, to find out more about the topics, the speakers and how to register. 

Pasco/Hernando SCORE Mentoring
Pasco Hernando SCORE offers free confidential small business mentoring. Volunteer business experts will provide free assistance to small business owners to help solve their problems and grow their business. To request a mentor, visit SCORE.org/pascohernando .

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group invites speakers in on a variety of topics and gives people a chance to do some networking of their own. The group’s meeting begins at 7:30 a.m., at the IHOP in Dade City, 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City. Here is its list of upcoming speakers:

March 12:  Melonie Monson, past executive director/CEO of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce and mayor of Zephyrhills; Randy Stover, provost dean emeritus of Pasco-Hernando State College; Kathryn Starkey, Pasco County Commission, District 3

April 9:  Dr. John Legg, candidate for Pasco County Schools Superintendent; Christopher and Tammi Dester, director and founder of the Academy of Spectrum Diversity

May 14: Madonna Wise, retired educator and author

June 11: Peter Castellani, founder and director of Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers; Amy Yarborough, director of the Pregnancy Care Center; Dr. Chris Dunning, candidate for Pasco County Schools Superintendent

July 9: Mike Fasano, Pasco County tax collector; Vicki Wiggins, CEO, the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

Aug. 13: Bill Cronin, president and CEO of Pasco Economic Development Council

Sept. 10: Brian Corley, Pasco County Supervisor of Elections

Oct. 8:  Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller

Nov. 12: Todd Vande Berg, planning director of the City of Zephyrhills

Contact Nils R. Lenz at 813-782-9491 or , or any of the board members for suggested topics that you would like to hear about or to suggest specific speakers. If you would like to speak, contact the networking group now to schedule a time during the group’s meetings.

Published February 14, 2024

 

Business Digest 02/07/2024

By

‘Star’ performers celebrated
The Pasco County Commission has adopted a resolution commending the county’s 2023 Star Performer, Star Leader and Star Team of the Year.

Sarah Sukhram was selected as the county’s Star Performer; Ben Diel was selected as its Star Leader; and a long list of employees was selected as the Star Team of the Year for their work in helping the county assume operations of the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus.

Sukhram, is volunteer and foster coordinator with Pasco County Animal Services,  “Sarah has worked to create one of the finest volunteer programs in the country, validated by Points of Light and the Association of Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (AL!VE) as a Service Enterprise organization for standards of excellence in volunteer engagement,” according to a Pasco County news release.  “She routinely goes above and beyond – making a difference in not only people’s lives, but animals’ lives as well,” the release adds.

Diel is the county’s training and development manager, who has worked for Pasco for nearly three decades. He “has provided outstanding service to team members and leaders across the organization – making him a top role model for all,” the release adds.

The county’s 2023 Star Team of the Year award goes to the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus (WRSC) Transition Team, the release says.

“They overcame a huge obstacle,” according to the release. “In a mere 45 days, the team took over operations of WRSC from an outside agency. Dozens of team members from all facets of Pasco County Government played an important role in the transition. These devoted employees offered their services, assistance and guidance to successfully complete this monumental task.”

Members of the Star Team of the Year are: Mathew Abenojar, John Alland, Doug Anderson, Erik Anderson, Louise Anderson, Lorraine Atwater, Todd Babinsack, Shelly Bandy, Nicolas Barr, Andrew Baxter, Todd Bayley, Jesse Bednarik, Elizabeth Blair, Chad Blaz, Earle Burch, Troy Casten, Matthew Christian, David Conlin, Chuck Cordon, Cristina Cordon, Elva Correa, Carolyn Creamer, Todd Curci, Anthony DeFeo, Anita Derks, John Digeon, Connor Donovan, Kyle Endriss, Monica Ewalt, Amielee Farrell, Alex Fasano, Danny Ferns, Denise Forman, Joe Fox, Curtis Franklin, Kayla Getz, David Goldstein, Audomaro Gomez, Samantha Grahn, Peter Grayling, Art Greif, Ashley Grindstaff, Sharaya Hairston, Michael Hall, Laura Hayhurst, Eli Hazen, Margery Helton, Roy Hernandez Rivera, Louis Hite, Barbara Hitzemann, Greg Hodges, Carolina Howard, Faridah Huller, Ben Isaacs, Lindsay Janssen, Schello Jean-Louis, Tom Johnson, Tambrey Laine, Emilee Leathers, Ryan Lewis, Karen Lloyd, Marivette Maldonado-Figueroa, Michael Maloy, Jeffrey Manion, Anthony Martin, Matthew McDonough, Lawrence Miller, John Morrell, Timothy Myrick, Brenda Nardi, Raul Nardi, Jeffrey Nealey, Kathie O’Neill, Ronnie Outen, Gail Parnell, Sarah Phinney, TJ Pyche, Matthew Raffaelli, Carrie Roberts, Consuelo Sanchez, Shawn Sanders, Shannon Saracena, Nina Scherach, Christopher Sharrer, Bryan Shaw, Robert Shipley, James Sikes, Isaiah Smallwood, Michael Smith, Kathy Spinks, Doug Steiger, Terrence Stewart, Cindy Szappan, Brian Taylor and Jennifer Tellarini.

Chamber Lunch ‘n Learn
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host a Lunch ‘n Learn focusing on the topic of Pasco County Libraries. The event will be on Feb. 15 at 11:30 a.m. To find out more, go to NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

Showcase of opportunities
The construction of Orlando Health Hospital in Wesley Chapel is creating new opportunities for local businesses. The North Tampa Bay Chamber, Turner Construction, trade partners and community leaders are planning a day of networking, procurement opportunities and an informational panel.

The event will be on Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Porter Campus of Pasco-Hernando State College, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. The event will include a tabletop expo and trade partner networking, lunch and a panel discussion with community partners.

Cost is $25, which includes lunch. Visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com for more information.

GROW Pasco
Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about a wide array of business topics at Grow Pasco, which is set for March 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, in San Antonio. Grow Pasco features 15 breakout sessions, led by some of the best business minds in the area. Go to the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com, to find out more about the topics, the speakers and how to register. 

Pasco County Day at the Capitol
Join the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s public policy committee for its “Pasco County Day” at the Capitol. Those taking the trip will have the opportunity to visit with our local representatives serving in the Florida Legislature, and to provide advocacy for your business and/or industry. The trip is open to all, not just chamber members. The cost is $40 and this is what you can expect:

* Arrival at Center for Innovation where refreshments will be served
* Break
* Legislative speakers
* Complimentary lunch with legislative speakers
* Senate Chamber with more legislative speakers
* Tour of Old Capitol and/or 22nd floor Capitol Observatory Gallery visit
* End the evening with a social at Proof Brewing Company with complimentary heavy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments
* Bus ride back to Pasco

The chartered bus will be departing from Pasco County at 6:15 a.m., on Feb. 13 and will be returning by 11 p.m., the same day. To reserve your seat or for additional information, call 727-842-7651, or visit the chamber’s website at GreaterPasco.com.

International Tourism & Trade Day
Registration is open for Pasco County International Tourism & Trade Day. The event will bring together Pasco County business leaders, international resource partners and exporters. It offers opportunities to learn about resources available to help Pasco businesses expand their business through exporting. 

There will be a panel discussion featuring Pasco County businesses who have participated in trade missions and with resource partners who made that possible. There also will be opportunities to meet resource partners to assist with international business development, and information will be shared about an upcoming trade mission to Canada.

The event is set for Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Florida Avenue Brewing Company, 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, in Wesley Chapel.

Seating is limited and a complimentary lunch will be provided. For more information, reach out to .

Pasco/Hernando SCORE Mentoring
Pasco Hernando SCORE offers free confidential small business mentoring. Volunteer business experts will provide free assistance to small business owners to help solve their problems and grow their business. To request a mentor, visit SCORE.org/pascohernando .

Business Digest 01/31/2024

By

The City of Zephyrhills is hiring
The City of Zephyrhills is hiring for positions across multiple departments. The city offers competitive pay and benefits including medical, dental, life insurance, and Florida Retirement System (FRS).
View the city’s current job openings and apply online at www.ci.zephyrhills.fl.us/Jobs.aspx.

Greater Pasco Medical Roundtable
The Greater Pasco Medical Roundtable meets on the first Thursday of each month, from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites, 2125 Corporate Center, in Trinity. The next meeting is Feb. 1.

The meeting, sponsored by Holiday Inn Express & Suites Trinity, provides a venue for a discussion about everything that affects the Greater Pasco health care industry. Participants get a chance to learn and interact with members of the health care community and to discuss current topics in the industry. Registration is free and anyone who would like to be part of the conversation is welcome.

GROW Pasco
Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about a wide array of business topics at Grow Pasco, which is set for March 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, in San Antonio. Grow Pasco features 15 breakout sessions led by some of the best business minds in the area.

Go to the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website to find out more about the topics, the speakers and how to register. The Pasco EDC’s website is PascoEDC.com.

Pasco County Day at the Capitol
Join the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s public policy committee for its “Pasco County Day” at the Capitol. Those taking the trip will have the opportunity to visit with our local representatives serving in the Florida Legislature, and to provide advocacy for your business and/or industry. The trip is open to all, not just chamber members. The cost is $40 and this is what you can expect:

* Arrival at Center for Innovation where refreshments will be served

* Break

* Legislative speakers

* Complimentary lunch with legislative speakers

* Senate Chamber with more legislative speakers

* Tour of Old Capitol and/or 22nd floor Capitol Observatory Gallery visit 

* End the evening with a social at Proof Brewing Company with complimentary heavy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments

* Bus ride back to Pasco

The chartered bus will depart from Pasco County at 6:15 a.m., on Feb. 13 and will return by 11 p.m., the same day.

To reserve your seat or for additional information, call 727-842-7651, or visit the chamber’s website at GreaterPasco.com.

International Tourism & Trade Day
Registration is open for Pasco County International Tourism & Trade Day. The event will bring together Pasco County business leaders, international resource partners and exporters.

It offers opportunities to learn about resources available to help Pasco businesses expand their business through exporting. There will be a panel discussion featuring Pasco County businesses who have participated in trade missions and with resource partners who made that possible. There also will be opportunities to meet resource partners to assist with international business development, and information will be shared about an upcoming trade mission to Canada.

The event is set for Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Florida Avenue Brewing Company, 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, in Wesley Chapel. Seating is limited and a complimentary lunch will be provided.

For more information, reach out to .

Pasco/Hernando SCORE Mentoring
Pasco Hernando SCORE offers free confidential small business mentoring. Our volunteer business experts will provide free assistance to small business owners to help solve their problems and grow their business. To request a mentor, visit SCORE.org/pascohernando.

Business Digest 01/24/2024

By

Gary Plastic is now hiring
Gary Plastic Packaging Corp. (Garyline) has scheduled a hiring event for Jan. 27, from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at its new facility at 14799 Shady Hills Road, in Spring Hill. A similar event held on Jan. 13 by the company drew quite a crowd. The company is hiring 500-plus employees. It was recruited to Pasco County from New York by the Pasco Economic Development Council, a private, nonprofit economic development organization that is supported by Penny for Pasco tax proceeds and corporate investors.

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group invites speakers in on a variety of topics and gives people a chance to do some networking of their own. The group’s meeting begins at 7:30 a.m., at the IHOP in Dade City, 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City. Here is its list of upcoming speakers:

Feb. 14: Bob Hatfield from the office of U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis; David Wallis, chairman of the Republican Liberty Caucus of Pasco County and candidate for Pasco County Republican Executive Committee
March 12:  Melonie Monson, past executive director/CEO of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce and mayor of Zephyrhills; Randy Stover, provost dean emeritus of Pasco-Hernando State College; Kathryn Starkey, Pasco County Commission, District 3
April 9:  Dr. John Legg, candidate for Pasco County Schools Superintendent; Christopher and Tammi Dester, director and founder of the Academy of Spectrum Diversity
May 14: Madonna Wise, retired educator and author
June 11: Peter Castellani, founder and director of Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers; Amy Yarborough, director of the Pregnancy Care Center
July 9: Mike Fasano, Pasco County tax collector; Vicki Wiggins, CEO, the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce
Aug. 13: Bill Cronin, president and CEO of Pasco Economic Development Council
Sept. 10: Brian Corley, Pasco County Supervisor of Elections
Oct. 8:  Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller
Nov. 12: Todd Vande Berg, planning director of the City of Zephyrhills

Contact Nils R. Lenz, 813-782-9491 or , or any of the board members for suggested topics that you would like to hear about or to suggest specific speakers. If you would like to speak, contact us now to schedule your time during our networking meetings.

North Tampa Bay Chamber is seeking ambassadors
The North Tampa Bay Chamber is seeking 10 business-minded individuals to become ambassadors for the chamber. Ambassadors take on the responsibility of engaging, encouraging, nurturing and expanding relationships within the chamber. Ambassadors also serve as the primary hospitality arm of the chamber, attending most chamber programs and events. The goal of each ambassador is to personally welcome every attendee and create a positive experience for all members.

To find out more, email . Applications are due by Jan. 31.

Pasco County Day at the Capitol
Join the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce’s public policy committee for its “Pasco County Day” at the Capitol. Those taking the trip will have the opportunity to visit with our local representatives serving in the Florida Legislature, and to provide advocacy for your business and/or industry. The trip is open to all, not just chamber members. The cost is $40 and this is what you can expect:

* Arrival at Center for Innovation where refreshments will be served
* Break
* Legislative speakers
* Complimentary lunch with legislative speakers
* Senate Chamber with more legislative speakers
* Tour of Old Capitol and/or 22nd floor Capitol Observatory Gallery visit
* End the evening with a social at Proof Brewing Company with complimentary heavy hors d’oeuvres and refreshments
* Bus ride back to Pasco

The chartered bus will be departing from Pasco County at 6:15 a.m., on Feb. 13 and will be returning by 11 p.m., the same day. To reserve your seat or for additional information, call 727-842-7651, or visit the chamber’s website at GreaterPasco.com.

International Tourism & Trade Day
Registration is open for Pasco County International Tourism & Trade Day. The event will bring together Pasco County business leaders, international resource partners and exporters. It offers opportunities to learn about resources available to help Pasco businesses expand their business through exporting. 

There will be a panel discussion featuring Pasco County businesses who have participated in trade missions and with resource partners who made that possible. There also will be opportunities to meet resource partners to assist with international business development, and information will be shared about an upcoming trade mission to Canada.

The event is set for Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Florida Avenue Brewing Company, 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, in Wesley Chapel. Seating is limited and a complimentary lunch will be provided.

For more information, reach out to .

$8.1 million earmarked in battle against opioids
Pasco County has approved a multi-pronged approach to battle the ills caused by opioid addiction.

The Pasco County Commission has approved nine recommended projects, submitted to the county’s Opioid Task Force, that are aimed at helping people who are struggling with substance use and mental health disorders, according to a county news release.

The money, which comes from a global settlement with opioid manufacturers and distributors, will go for programs which include: Treatment and supportive services; education and caregiver support; system level abatement; prevention and education; mitigation and enforcement.

“The services funded through these projects are vital tools toward integrating preventative measures and necessary resources into our community,” Pasco County Support Services Director Paula Baracaldo said, in the news release.

“It demonstrates Pasco County’s commitment to fighting the horrible effects and consequences of substance-use disorder.”

Funding will provide access to the following services: mental health support, medical supplies, supportive and transitional housing, comprehensive case management and community outreach efforts.

To learn more about the Opioid Task Force, visit MyPas.co/AdvisoryBoardsCommittees.

Business Digest 01/17/2024

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Luis Viera has been reelected chairman of the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority Board. (Courtesy of Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority)

HART board reelects Luis Viera
The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) Board reelected Councilman Luis Viera as chairman, Commissioner Michael Owen as vice chair and director Melanie Williams as secretary of the transit authority’s board of directors for 2024.

“This is such a pivotal time for HART and for the board to continue to stand with the people that we serve and with our amazing workers,” Viera said, in a HART news release.

Viera has been on the HART board since February 2020 and has served on the Tampa City Council since 2016.

The HART board is responsible for setting policy and making decisions for the transit authority on matters ranging from system operations, service planning, fare structure, finance, and customer service. It is made up of 14 volunteers who are appointed to represent Hillsborough County (seven seats), the City of Tampa (four seats), State of Florida (two seats) and City of Temple Terrace (one seat).

Officers of the HART board (chair, vice chair and secretary) are elected annually.

For more information about HART service, visit GoHART.org.

County department relocates
Pasco County Building Construction Services (BCS) has relocated to just down the street from its former site in New Port Richey.

Operations began at the new location, 8661 Citizens Drive, Suite 100, on Jan. 16. The office is in what is known as the former Social Security building.

The new first-floor suites offer more space and convenience for our growing permitting and inspections teams who are processing permits faster than ever.

“Relocating to the Citizens Center will centralize operations and increase collaboration with our team members,” Roy Mazur, assistant county administrator of development services, said in a news release. “We’re looking forward to having Building Inspections and Central Permitting under one roof to improve efficiency, create more training opportunities and offer a one-stop shop to our customers.”

The new space is expected to offer shorter wait times for customers and to provide collaborative spaces for staff training and meetings. Those needing services in Central Pasco can continue to visit the full-service office in Land O’ Lakes. Those requiring services in East Pasco can visit the Dade City office.

Visit MyPas.co/PascoBCS for office locations.

GROW Pasco
Take advantage of the opportunity to learn about a wide array of business topics at Grow Pasco, which is set for March 14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Saint Leo University Wellness Center, 12338 Priory Circle, in San Antonio. Grow Pasco features 15 breakout sessions, led by some of the best business minds in the area. Go to the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website to find out more about the topics, the speakers and how to register. The Pasco EDC’s website is PascoEDC.com.

Pasco Corrections is hiring
Pasco County Corrections is hiring corrections officers and corrections officer trainees, and will have an in-person career fair on  Jan. 17, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be at the Pasco County Corrections facility, at 20101 Central Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Corrections leadership will be conducting on-the-spot interviews.

Broadband grant funding available
FloridaCommerce has announced that more than $13 million in broadband grant funding is available through the Capital Projects Fund Digital Connectivity Technology Program to connect communities with digital devices.

The program connects communities in need of broadband internet access with funds for devices and equipment for digital workforce, education and health care opportunities — like applying for a job, securing a degree, and attending a telehealth appointment, according to a state news release.

Eligible applicants include counties, municipalities, nonprofit organizations and community action agencies serving high-poverty areas. Funding through the Digital Connectivity Technology Program expands broadband access by making computers, laptops, tablets and routers available for loan through local community centers like libraries and schools and equips Multi-Purpose Community Facilities with the devices necessary to ensure full connectivity throughout the facility.

Eligible entities are encouraged to apply by 5 p.m., Eastern Time on March 4, at FloridaJobs.org/Broadband.

To date, more than $226 million has been awarded for 88 strategic projects in 53 Florida counties for broadband internet expansion that will impact more than 250,000 unserved and underserved businesses and homes through the Broadband Opportunity Grant Program. 

Business Digest 01/10/2024

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Florida SBDC adds satellite office
The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of South Florida (USF) has announced the addition of a new satellite office location. Beginning on Jan. 18, every third Thursday of the month, aspiring, emerging, and established business owners in Pasco County can find their local Florida SBDC at USF consultant in Wesley Chapel, located at the SMARTstart @ The Grove Entrepreneur Center building, according to a news release.

Dan Mitchell (File)

Entrepreneurs seeking business guidance will have the opportunity to consult with consultant Pablo Arroyo at no cost at 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 202, Wesley Chapel.

“We are thrilled to announce our partnership with SMARTstart @ The Grove Entrepreneur Center in Pasco County,” Carl Hadden, regional director of the Florida SBDC at USF, said in the release.

“The Florida SBDC at USF is excited about the opportunity to extend our services to the vibrant community of Pasco County.  We look forward to fostering entrepreneurship, growth, and success through SMARTstart @ The Grove Entrepreneur Center,” Hadden said.

For more than 45 years, the Florida SBDC at USF has provided no-cost assistance to aspiring, emerging, and established businesses in Pasco County through consulting, training, and market research.

“As long-term partners with our Pasco Enterprise Network, we are very excited to welcome the SBDC into our SMARTstart at The Grove entrepreneur center,” Dan Mitchell, SMARTstart program director, said in the release.

“Our members, and mutual clients, will be served very well with counseling, advice, and the resources that the SBDC provides,” Mitchell said.

SMARTstart is a program of the Pasco Economic Development Council and receives funding for economic development from Penny for Pasco.

The addition of the SBDC office in Pasco creates additional access to consultant expertise on areas vital to accelerating business growth, including strategic market research, market expansion, and other business topics, the release says.

Pasco Corrections is hiring
Pasco County Corrections is hiring corrections officers and corrections officer trainees, and will have an in-person career fair on Jan. 16 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., and Jan. 17, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be at the Pasco County Corrections facility, at 20101 Central Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Corrections leadership will be conducting on-the-spot interviews. Those interested are advised to RSVP in advance, to secure an interview slot. RSVP to .

Economic drivers in Pasco and beyond
Learn about key economic drivers in Pasco County, Florida and across the United States during a luncheon presented by the Pasco Economic Development Council on Jan. 18, at the Hilton Garden Inn Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Parkway in Lutz.

Check-in and networking are from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and the luncheon and presentation are from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Ben Friedman, economic development specialist at Duke Energy, will provide an overview on the economy in Pasco and across Florida, while Brian Barker, chief investment officer at SouthState Bank, will focus on a look back at the nation’s economy from 2023 and an outlook into 2024.

The cost is $35 and RSVPs are needed by Jan. 11. For more information, visit the Pasco EDC website at PascoEDC.com.

Pasco/Hernando SCORE Mentoring
Pasco Hernando SCORE offers free confidential small business mentoring. Our volunteer business experts will provide free assistance to small business owners to help solve their problems and grow their business. To request a mentor, visit SCORE.org/pascohernando .

SCORE webinars for business owners
SCORE offers a slate of free webinars on a variety of topics, aimed at helping business owners to succeed. Here are some of the upcoming webinars. Check with SCORE.org for more information on upcoming sessions and how to register. These upcoming webinars are at 1 p.m.:

Jan. 11: How To Start A Business Using A Free Score Mentor
Jan. 16: The Basics of Money Management
Jan. 18: 7 Simple Ways to Protect Yourself Legally When Starting a Business
Jan. 25: How to Create a Financial Plan – Financial Planning Basics
Jan. 30: How to Use Artificial Intelligence in Your Business: A Step-by-Step Guide

Overcoming financial challenges
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will present a lunch and learn on Jan. 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the NTBC Wiregrass Office – Signature Works, 28210 Paseo Drive, No. 190 to 105, in Wesley Chapel.

The cost is $20 for members and $25 for non-members. Registration is required.

The session focuses on overcoming financial challenges in business by learning how entrepreneurs can obtain credit. It is being presented by Jay Brach, executive vice president, and Trevor Gunn, regional managing partner, of J. Galt. For more information, visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

Business celebrations
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce has announced a number of business celebrations. They include:

  • Jan. 10, 4:30 p.m.: O2B Kids Lutz ribbon-cutting, 2400 Ashley Creek Trail, in Land O’ Lakes
  • Jan. 19, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., private tour and tastings; 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., ribbon-cutting celebration: Belmar Pharma Solutions, 2500 Lake Pointe Parkway, Odessa.
  • Jan. 23, day begins with 8 a.m. kick-off breakfast: The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Professional Development Day brings valued information and training to the community. Registration is open. The event features a kick-off breakfast with a keynote speaker, speed networking, a panel of experts, an after-hours mixer and more. For more information, check the chamber’s website at GreaterPasco.com.

Hooters helps others
Pasco County Foster Adoptive Parent Association – The HMC Hospitality Group Corporate Office and the Spring Hill Hooters, Port Richey Hooters, Clearwater Hooters, John’s Pass Hooters, 4th Street Hooters, Odessa Hooters, Port Richey Hooters and Spring Hill Hooters locations received tags for the Pasco County Foster Adoptive Parent Association Angel Program to collect gifts for local foster children and adoptive kids.  As a company they donated gifts to over 160 children.

Business Digest 01/03/2024

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Florida ranked No. 1 for skilled workforce strengths
Lightcast has ranked Florida No. 1 for the second year in a row for attracting and developing a skilled workforce, according to a state news release.

Lightcast’s Talent Attraction Scorecard evaluates states based on job growth, education attainment, regional competitiveness and migration data. 

“It is no surprise that Lightcast has named Florida the No. 1 state for talent attraction for two consecutive years,” Gov. Ron DeSantis said, in the release. “Florida’s record investments in workforce education, including expanding apprenticeship and on-the-job training programs in high demand professions, have elevated business and industry through strong workforce development.”

Florida also earned high rankings on the scorecard in other categories, including:

  • No. 2 for migration
  • No. 2 for competitive effect
  • No. 4 for skilled job growth
  • No. 5 for overall job growth

“Florida continues to be a model for the nation under Gov. DeSantis’ leadership with workforce development strategies that meet job seekers and job creators where they are,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly, in the release. “Florida’s proactive approach to economic development and key investments in workforce training move our nation-leading economy forward.” 

Economic drivers in Pasco, Florida and across the U.S.
Learn about key economic drivers in Pasco County, Florida and across the United States during a luncheon presented by the Pasco Economic Development Council on Jan. 18, at the Hilton Garden Inn Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Parkway in Lutz.

Check-in and networking are from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and the luncheon and presentation are from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Ben Friedman, economic development specialist at Duke Energy, will provide an overview on the economy in Pasco and across Florida, while Brian Barker, chief investment officer at SouthState Bank, will focus on a look back at the nation’s economy from 2023 and an outlook into 2024.

The cost is $35 and RSVPs are needed by Jan. 11. For more information, visit the Pasco EDC website at PascoEDC.com.

Pasco/Hernando SCORE Mentoring
Pasco Hernando SCORE offers free confidential small business mentoring. Our volunteer business experts will provide free assistance to small business owners to help solve their problems and grow their business. To request a mentor, visit SCORE.org/pascohernando .

States with largest and smallest credit decrease in 2023
The personal-finance website WalletHub has released a report on the States Where Credit Limits Decreased the Most in 2023.

According to that report, Mississippi ranked No. 1 in the largest credit limit decrease and Florida was among the states with the lowest decrease, coming in at No. 42.

Cassandra Happe, a WalletHub analyst, notes that a credit limit decrease can significantly influence one’s financial landscape, from planning major purchases to simple day-to-day spending.

Carrying a higher balance in relation to your credit limit will have a big impact on your credit utilization ratio, Happe says. This ratio measures the amount of credit in use compared to the overall credit limit, and it plays a crucial role in determining one’s credit score. A higher ratio can negatively affect credit scores, making it essential for individuals to reassess their spending habits and exercise financial discipline, she adds.

 “A credit limit decrease can pose a challenge, by making daily purchases less convenient, disrupting your cash flow, increasing your credit utilization, and hurting your credit score. But it may also be an opportunity to improve your financial habits,” Happe says. “Embracing this opportunity for greater fiscal responsibility involves careful budgeting and timely bill payments. By actively managing your finances within the revised limits, you can not only mitigate the short-term effects on your credit score but also cultivate healthier financial habits for long-term stability.”

Here are some tips for managing credit:

  • Use Multiple Cards: Consider using multiple credit cards for your purchases instead of maxing out one card. This can help you spread out your balances and keep your credit utilization low. Also, using different credit cards that each offer good rewards on a different type of purchase or at a particular retailer can be beneficial in the long run. Many major retailers have their own cards, which are easy to get and often offer good rewards.
  • Pay your bills multiple times a month: To keep more of your credit limit available, you can make multiple payments throughout the month so you maintain a lower balance. This won’t always be possible, but if you can pull it off, it will help prevent purchases from being declined because your limit is maxed out. It will also help your credit score by keeping your credit utilization as low as possible.
  • If one credit card company decreases your credit limit, contact your other credit card issuers and inquire about increasing your credit limits with them. If you have a good payment history and credit score, you may be successful, which can help improve your credit utilization. Be sure to keep in mind that asking for a higher credit limit can trigger a hard inquiry of your credit report, so if you need the best possible score in the next few months, you may want to avoid requesting an increase. 
  • Consistently paying your bill on time and using only a portion of your existing limit can also lead to an automatic credit limit increase. There’s no hard inquiry with an automatic increase.
    To read WalletHub’s full report on where credit limits decreased, visit WalletHub.com/edu/states-where-credit-limits-decreased-the-most/131198.