When Brian Butler moved to Lutz roughly 14 years ago, he figured he would have plenty of time to assume a meaningful role at a Tampa Bay company, play golf and go fishing. It didn’t quite work out that way. The opportunities the decorated retired U.S. Army officer had envisioned didn't materialize. “I thought I had a lot to offer this community. And, I was humbled in a way that I just … [Read more...]
Leader shares his hospital’s COVID-19 experiences
June 9, 2020 By
AdventHealth Wesley Chapel Erik Wangsness CEO assumed the leadership role of the hospital on Sept. 1 — during the midst of a hospital expansion and months before COVID-19 became a global pandemic. “Our world changed about three months ago,” the hospital executive told members of the North Tampa Bay Chamber, during the organization’s first Zoom breakfast meeting on June 2. “We had heard since … [Read more...]
Experts offer ‘next steps’ advice for small businesses
June 2, 2020 By
Small businesses around the country recently tuned into a webinar presented by Spectrum Reach to help entrepreneurs respond to challenges posed by COVID-19. Moderator Annika Pergament, of NY 1, asked panelists about current economic conditions and asked them to provide practical suggestions for business owners to help them get to the other side. The webinar, called “Looking beyond: What’s … [Read more...]
Chambers adapt to new circumstances
May 19, 2020 By
Small businesses are struggling to reopen amid the uncertainties wrought by the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Chambers of commerce are right there with them on the front line. They are dealing with staff layoffs in some cases. They've been working from home. They have fewer resources. And, even as chambers begin reopening their offices, the priority is the economic … [Read more...]
Staying positive during a pandemic
April 28, 2020 By
It’s no secret that impacts from the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic pose significant challenges. “What happened to normal? Normal is just gone, right? It’s just gone,” said Paula O’Neil, former clerk and comptroller for Pasco County, and now a private business consultant. O’Neil’s remarks came during a Zoom meeting of WOW TOO, a women’s networking group that is part of the … [Read more...]
Impacts of pandemic being felt across Pasco
April 21, 2020 By
As the death toll rises and the economic meltdown continues — communities and businesses across the country grapple with impacts of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Pasco County’s priorities have been to protect the health and well-being of its residents and to get the economy back on track, as quickly as possible when the pandemic passes, said Pasco County Commission Chairman … [Read more...]
Some news you can use
April 14, 2020 By
Prevent the spread Help prevent the spread of COVID-19: Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care. Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching … [Read more...]
Will cross-county commuters have a new option?
February 12, 2020 By
Commuters in Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties could have a new way to get around, as planning continues on a proposed 41-mile bus route connecting the counties. The plan being considered calls for designated rapid bus transit lanes to be built along the shoulders of Interstate 75 and Interstate 275. The route would run from Pasco to Hillsborough County — beginning at State Road … [Read more...]
Big changes coming to The Grove
February 5, 2020 By
The Grove at Wesley Chapel shopping center is in store for a major makeover — something being hyped as a future downtown entertainment district for the growing Pasco County community. Owner and developer Mark Gold unveiled his vision for the property during a North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce luncheon last month. He has sweeping plans for the large, but rather traditional strip mall, which … [Read more...]
Initiatives aim to help veterans
November 13, 2019 By
Veterans statewide could soon see a slew of new and expanded benefits and services, if the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs gets its way in the 2020 legislative session and beyond. The agency is enrolling 17 legislative bills for the upcoming 60-day session, which begins in January, Al Carter, the department’s chief of staff, reported at the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce’s November … [Read more...]
