The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Business Digest

Business Digest 05/08/2024

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Home Theater building acquired
Main Street Zephyrhills has acquired the historic old Home Theater building at 38521 Fifth Ave., in downtown Zephyrhills. The theater, which closed in 2007, was opened in 1948 and was billed as one of the most modern movie theaters in the South, with comfortable seats, a wide stage and a glass-enclosed “crying room” for cranky babies, according to a news release. Funding for the purchase came in-part from the state during the 2023 Legislative Session. Main Street Zephyrhills will preserve and revitalize the building.

Healthy Steps ribbon-cutting
Health Steps to Fitness will host a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on May 9 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 118 Flagship Drive, Lutz. Kidney bean chili, and cupcakes will be offered at 5 p.m., at this free event.

SBCD Business Awards
The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBCD) at the University of South Florida will recognize businesses from the 10-county Tampa Bay region at the 2024 Florida SBDC at USF Business Awards Celebration Luncheon on May 15 at the USF Marshall Center, 4103 USF Cedar Circle in Tampa, on the second floor, according to a news release. The keynote speaker will be Andrea Gonzmart Williams, great-great-granddaughter of Casimiro Hernandez Sr., founder of the Columbia Restaurant in Ybor City in 1905, who now is part of the family business. The event costs $50 to attend. For more details, visit https://bit.ly/2024-sbdc-usf-awards.

Networking group meeting
The East Pasco Networking Group will hold its next meeting on May 14 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City. The speaker will be Madonna Wise, retired educator and author. For more information, contact the Chair Nils R. Lenz at 813-782-9491 or . 

Rodizio Grill groundbreaking
Rodizio Grill’s founder and ownership team is inviting the public to a free groundbreaking ceremony for Rodizio Grill on May 14 at 2 p.m., at 2082 Grand Cypress Drive in Lutz. It will be the brand’s 24th location, according to a news release. 

Chamber Coffee Social
The North Tampa Bay Chamber  will host a Coffee Social on May 15 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at 4&Co., 16703 Early Riser Ave., Land O’ Lakes, in the Collaboration Area. The networking event is complimentary and open to the public. For more information, contact .

Business Digest 05/01/2024

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Habitat for Humanity ribbon-cutting
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will host an open house and ribbon-cutting for Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties’ new office location at 7237 Little Road in New Port Richey, on May 3 at 10 a.m. The event is free to attend.

EMG Motorsport offers U-Haul rentals
EMG Motorsport has partnered with U-Haul to bring rentals of U-Haul trucks, trailers, towing equipment, moving supplies and in-store pickup for boxes to their store at 6135 Salt Springs Road, Port Richey, according to a news release. For more information, call 727-847-5668, or visit uhaul.com/Locations/Truck-Rentals-near-Port-Richey-FL-34668/007748.

Wiregrass apartments
A grand opening for Madison Wiregrass, 32257 Snowberry Way in Wesley Chapel, took place on April 25, to showcase the new apartment community. For more information, call 813-947-1207, or visit LiveMadisonWatergrass.com.

RISE Dispensary opens doors
RISE Dispensary had a grand opening on April 26. The new location is at 28053 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Wesley Chapel. For more information, visit RiseCannabis.com.

New Hybrid Training in North Tampa
The North Tampa Bay Chamber hosted a grand opening and ribbon-cutting on April 27 for SETS Hybrid Training, 19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in the Pebble Creek Collection, in Tampa. Visit SetsBuilt.com for more information. 

Greater Pasco Chamber brochure exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce (GPCC) will host its next Land O’ Lakes brochure exchange on May 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at New Beginnings, 18935 Michigan Lane, which is one-fourth mile north of State Road 52, along U.S. 41.

This is an in-person business card and brochure exchange and networking event, with barbecue lunch from Hungry Harry’s. It’s held on the second Thursday of each month. The event is sponsored by Architectural Signage & Printing. The event is free for GPCC members and $10 for non-members. The cost of food is additional.

More information can be found at https://members.greaterpasco.com/events/details/land-o-lakes-brochure-exchange-05-09-2024-14399.

Business Digest 04/17/2024

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Speed networking event
The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will host a Professional Speed Networking event on April 26 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Each round will last 6 minutes, with each business/organization talking one-on-one with another for 3 minutes each about what they do and how they serve their community. Get to know more than 20 other local businesses in the area. Pens and paper will be provided if needed. Refreshments also will be provided. 

This event is for individuals who own, or work at/with/for a local business, organization or nonprofit in the Greater Pasco area.

Registration required. Call 727-815-7126.

Zephyrhills Career Fair
A career fair for the City of Zephyrhills will be held on April 19  from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Zephyrhills City Hall, 5335 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills. The city’s hiring team will be on-site — attendees will be able to complete applications, and are encouraged to bring resumes and wear proper attire, according to a news release.

For more information, call the Zephyrhills Human Resources Department at 813-780-0013, or email .

Open positions can be found online at https://www.ci.zephyrhills.fl.us/Jobs.aspx.

Suncoast Credit Union expands partnership with Rays
Suncoast Credit Union has reintroduced the “Every Hit is a Win with Suncoast” program. For every base hit by a Tampa Bay Rays player during games, Suncoast will donate $90 to honor its 90th anniversary, with donations capped at $10,000 per month, according to a news release. 

Two nonprofit organizations will compete monthly for votes via a Facebook poll to receive a percentage of the total donation, at Suncoast.com/Rays. The Humane Society of Tampa Bay and ZooTampa are the first nonprofits eligible for donations. 

Additionally, Suncoast will donate $590 to the Randy Arozarena International Foundation for every base hit by Randy Arozarena during Friday home games, with the amount doubling to $1,180 for home runs. The Randy Arozarena International Foundation supports youth in underserved communities through sports, education, and wellness, aligning with Suncoast’s mission.

Employers invited to career fair
Hernando and Pasco County employers are invited to the Pasco-Hernando State College/CareerSource Job Fair on April 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the PHSC Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., Building B-303, Conference Center, in Wesley Chapel.

Employers must register, and space is limited. For more information, contact Marianne Brawer 352-587-4388 or .

NTBC Precision Health Tampa Bay ribbon-cutting
Precision Health Tampa Bay celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting on April 11. The new location is at 17523 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz.

Greater Pasco Chamber brochure exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce (GPCC) will host its next Land O’ Lakes brochure exchange on May 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at New Beginnings, 18935 Michigan Lane, which is located one-fourth mile north of State Road 52, along U.S. 41.

This is an in-person business card and brochure exchange and networking event, with barbecue lunch from Hungry Harry’s. It’s held on the second Thursday of each month. The event is sponsored by Architectural Signage & Printing. The event is free for GPCC members and $10 for non-members. The cost of food is additional.

More information can be found at https://members.greaterpasco.com/events/details/land-o-lakes-brochure-exchange-05-09-2024-14399.

Business Digest 03/27/2024

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Women-n-Charge Meeting
The next Women-n-Charge meeting will be on Wed., March 27 at the Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., Land O’ Lakes, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Doors are open at 11:15 a.m. for registration, vendor shopping and networking. Attendance is $21 for members and $25 for guests, and attendees are asked to bring a nonperishable food item for donation.

Three $2,000 grants will be awarded to women business owners. 

Meetings are usually held on the fourth Wednesday of every month at noon.

Attendees can register online at women-n-charge.com/meetings, or email for more information.

Zephyrhills Dollar General adds produce
The recently remodeled Dollar General at 34838 State Road 54 in Zephyrhills will now carry produce in addition to their regular items, according to a news release. The store will sell 80% of the fresh fruits and vegetables sold at most grocery stores, including “tomatoes, onions, apples, strawberries, potatoes, sweet potatoes, lemons, limes, salad mixes, and more,” the release states.

Career Resources Workshop
The UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension is offering a Career Resource Workshop on April 11 at 3 p.m., at its One Stop Shop (formerly the Stallings Building), 15029 14th St., Dade City. The workshop is free and offered every second Thursday of the month. For more information and to register, visit Eventbrite.com.

Greater Pasco Chamber brochure exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce (GPCC) will host a Land O’ Lakes brochure exchange, set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., on April 11, at New Beginnings at 18935 Michigan Lane, which is about one-fourth mile north of State Road 52, along U.S. 41.

This is an in-person business card and brochure exchange and networking event, with barbecue lunch from Hungry Harry’s. It’s held on the second Thursday of each month. The event is sponsored by Architectural Signage & Printing. The event is free for GPCC members and $10 for non-members. The cost of food is additional.

More information can be found at members.greaterpasco.com/events/details/land-o-lakes-brochure-exchange-03-14-2024-14397.

Business Digest 03/20/2024

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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

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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

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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

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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

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‘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.