The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

East Pasco Networking Group

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 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 01/24/2024

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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 11/08/2023

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(Courtesy of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay)

Board chair named
The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay announced the nonprofit organization’s Board of Directors has named Mellissa Longo as chair of the board for the 2024 fiscal year. The board also named Tim Traud, of Jabil, as the chair-elect, according to a news release. Other board members are: 

  • Immediate past chair: Roger Boothroyd, Ph.D., professor emeritus at University of South Florida
  • Treasurer: Linda Miller, chief operating officer of Lake Charles Methanol LLC
  • Secretary: Attorney Lisa McGlynn, partner at Fisher & Phillips LLP

Longo has served on the board for nearly five years and has served as board secretary and chair-elect.

She has been practicing law for more than 20 years and currently is an associate general counsel for Pathways, a national behavioral health company.

“It’s a tremendous honor to serve as the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay’s Board Chair. I’m extremely passionate about behavioral health and I’ve seen the amazing impact the organization has had on people who need help. I look forward to working with the rest of the board and the Crisis Center leadership team to ensure that no one in our community has to face crisis alone,” Longo said, in the release.

Excellence in Business Awards
The North Tampa Bay Chamber will hold its 2023 Celebrating Excellence in Business Awards ceremony on Nov. 16 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. It will bestow honors in these categories:

  • Excellence in Innovation
  • Excellence in Collaboration
  • Excellence in Integrity
  • Excellence in Inclusivity
  • Community Hero

Networking begins at 5 p.m., with the awards presentation beginning at 6 p.m. Cost is $45 per person for the event, which features heavy hors d’oeuvres, with a cash bar. Cocktail attire is recommended.

The event will be at Treble Makers, Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant, 6034 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 100, in Wesley Chapel. For more information, visit NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

Financial assistance available
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has announced federal assistance opportunities for agricultural producers through such programs as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program and the Conservation Stewardship program. Applications must be made by Nov. 17. Contact the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to find out more.

‘Most entrepreneurial state’
Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced that Florida is the most entrepreneurial state in the nation, according to a study published by researchers at The Digital Project Manager.

Florida has the highest percentage of the population that has started a business with 13,238 small businesses per 100,000 residents, which is 3,000 more small businesses per 100,000 residents than the second place state of Georgia, according to a state news release.

“Florida’s pro-business, freedom-first policies make Florida the best state in the nation to do business,” DeSantis said, in the release. “I appreciate those Floridians who have taken a risk to start their own ventures.”

The study also found that new start-up businesses in Florida also had the highest number of jobs created in the first year with 6.53 new jobs per 1,000 Floridians. Florida also leads the nation in new business formations with more than 2.6 million new businesses formed over the last four years.

Florida’s unemployment rate has remained below the national average for nearly three years and more than one million Floridians have joined the workforce. Florida also has outpaced the national rate for labor force growth and private sector job growth for over two years, the new release says.

East Pasco Networking Group
Marianne Brawer, a business services consultant for Pasco-Hernando Career Source, is the featured speaker at the Nov. 14 breakfast meeting of the East Pasco Networking Group. The group meets at 7:30 a.m., on the second Tuesday of each month, except for December, at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City. For more information or to suggest speakers, contact Nils R. Lenz at 813-782-9491 or

Community Leadership Award
Clara Reynolds, president and CEO of the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay, has received the 2023 Community Leadership Award from Women in Leadership & Philanthropy (WLP) at the University of South Florida (USF), according to a news release.

Reynolds received the honor on Oct. 4, during the 17th Annual WLP Fall Symposium at Tampa Marriott Water Street in downtown Tampa.

The Community Leadership Award honors visionary leaders and philanthropists throughout the community who are doing extraordinary things to make Tampa Bay a better place for women to live and work. With the award, WLP showcases individual excellence in leadership as demonstrated by outstanding initiative, impact of work, and inspiration to others.

“I want to express my deepest appreciation to Women in Leadership & Philanthropy for the tremendous honor of being this year’s Community Leadership Award recipient. I started my career in social services to help people who are going through life’s most challenging circumstances. It was my daily motivation 30 years ago, and it’s still my motivation today. I am thankful and humbled to receive this recognition,” Reynolds said, in the release.

WLP was formed in 2005 with the leadership of USF President Emerita and Professor Judy Genshaft, longtime USF supporter Carol Morsani, and Tampa Bay’s leading philanthropists, business professionals and entrepreneurs to promote the educational and research endeavors of women at USF.

Colleen Chappell, chairman of the board of the ChappellRoberts advertising agency, received the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award at the Oct. 4 event.

Florida ranks No. 3 for internet speed
HighSpeedInternet.com recently released its fourth annual report on The Fastest and Slowest States for Internet Speed, and this year Florida ranked No. 3. The report lists the top five states in this order: Connecticut, New Jersey, Florida, Delaware and New Hampshire, according to a news release. Florida’s internet speed statistics say that it has a median download speed of 115.58 Mbps; it has an average download speed of 185.24 Mbps; its year-over-year change in its median speed is plus-0.29 Mbps and its 2022 rank is No. 7 in the U.S. For more information, visit HighSpeedInternet.com.

Business Digest 10/11/2023

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Amanda Buffinton is now managing partner of Shutts & Bowen LLP’s Tampa office. (Courtesy of Shutts & Brown LLP)

Managing partner named
Amanda B. Buffinton has been named managing partner of Shutts & Bowen LLP’s Tampa office.

Shutts & Bowen is a full-service business law firm with approximately 270 lawyers and with eight offices across Florida.

“We are excited to welcome Amanda as Tampa Office Managing Partner,” Firmwide Managing Partner Jack C. McElroy, said in a news release. “Her passion for the firm, combined with her knowledge of the Tampa community, is the ideal combination we look for in a leader. We are certain that under her leadership, the Tampa office will continue to grow and thrive.”

The firm’s Tampa office had previously been led by R. Alan Higbee, who is stepping aside after 17 years in this role in order to devote more time to his leadership position on Shutts & Bowen’s firmwide Executive Committee.

Buffinton, a partner in the Construction Litigation Practice Group, is board certified in Construction Law by The Florida Bar and focuses her practice on the litigation and arbitration of complex construction claims on behalf of owners, contractors and design professionals.

“It is a privilege to step into the Tampa Office Managing Partner role,” Buffinton said, in the news release. “I look forward to continuing Alan’s tremendous work in establishing and expanding the Tampa office for the past 17 years. We have an amazing group of lawyers and staff members and I am excited to be at the helm while we continue to grow into the future.”

Committee members announced
The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) has announced the 2024 executive committee for its board of directors. They are: Michele Hintson, chair, Shumaker, Loop and Kendrick; Staceyann Jibbison, vice chair, Rasmussen University; Paul Manuel, secretary/treasurer, Coastal Design Consultants; and Mike Ross, immediate past chair, Ardurra Group, according to a Pasco EDC news release.

The executive committee meets throughout the year to provide guidance and support to the Pasco EDC, which has the mission of stimulating balanced and diversified business growth.

Pasco EDC has 85 investors and 33 board members. 

East Pasco Networking Group
Madonna Wise will be the featured speaker for the next East Pasco Networking Group (EPNG) meeting on Nov. 14 at 7:30 a.m., at the IHOP, at 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City. Wise is a local author and retired educator. For information contact Nils Lenz, at  813-782-9491, 813-997-3903 or .

Land O’ Lakes brochure exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a Land O’ Lakes Brochure Exchange on Oct. 12 from 11:30 to 1 p.m., at New Beginnings, 18935 Michigan Lane. The venue is one-fourth mile north of State Road 52, along U.S. 41.

Admission is free (plus the cost of food) for chamber members and $10 (plus the cost of food) for non-members.

If you are not a member but would like to give the event a try, call the chamber office to arrange a one-time free entry. Call 727-842-7651 or 813-909-2722.

GeoPoint ribbon-cutting
GeoPoint Surveying has set its ribbon-cutting event for Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the ribbon-cutting scheduled for noon. The event will take place at 6735 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

Professional Women in Business
The October meeting of Professional Women in Business is set for Oct. 18 from 11:30 to 1 p.m., at HCA Florida Trinity Hospital, 9330 State Road 54 in Trinity. The group meets on the third Wednesday of each month.

Trinity Brochure Exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its Trinity Brochure Exchange on Oct. 19 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Seven Springs Golf & Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., in New Port Richey. The cost is $13 for lunch. Registration is free for Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce members and $10 for non-members. The event happens on the third Thursday of each month.

If you are not a member but would like to give the event a try, call the chamber office to arrange a one-time free entry. Call 727-842-7651 or 813-909-2722.

Emergency bridge loans
The office of Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced that more than $6.4 million in emergency bridge loans have been awarded to small businesses in Florida that were affected by Hurricane Idalia.

The state’s announcement says that 161 businesses were approved to receive the funds to bridge the gap while waiting for other long-term funding such as insurance or FEMA funding.

More applications are being approved every day, the state news release says.

The program, administered by FloridaCommerce, provides short-term, no-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to Hurricane Idalia. Interested applicants can apply now through Oct. 25, or until all available funds are expended.

Visit FloridaJobs.org/EBL to learn more and to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program.

Business owners needing more information can call 833-832-4494 Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Business Digest 09/27/2023

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Pat Duncheon stands near the entrance of the new location for Duncheon Nursery, at 10420 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. The nursery has been operating for 33 years in Land O’ Lakes and recently moved down the road. (Courtesy of Duncheon’s Nursery)

Duncheon’s Nursery relocates
After 33 years of operating in Land O’ Lakes, Duncheon’s Nursery has moved — but just 8 miles down the road from its original location, on the east side of U.S. 41, also known as Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

The nursery’s new address is 10420 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Moving to the new location allows the company to offer more choices to its customers and creates the opportunity for potential classes, according to a news release from Duncheon’s.

The business was started by Patrick and Donna Duncheon in 1990 with just a few plants on the side of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

Over the years, it became a bustling garden center with a wide array of plants and garden décor.

For more information, drop by for a visit, check the website at Duncheons.com, or call 813-948-1890.

Commercial permit applications
Pasco County Central Permitting will shift to online applications for commercial permits, effective Oct. 2.

The new process allows permits to be obtained electronically through the county’s PascoGateway portal.

Customers can use the portal to apply for commercial permits, upload digital documents for review, schedule inspections and pay fees online.

Commercial permits include permits for multifamily construction, commercial additions, commercial alterations, commercial plans revisions, commercial phasing and fire.

Applicants must register for an account. For registration instructions, visit our PascoGateway training page. To access PascoGateway, visit MyPas.co/Gateway.

To learn more about Pasco’s Building Construction Services, visit MyPas.co/BuildingConstruction.

Pasco EDC microloan program
The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) has a microloan program that’s intended to help entrepreneurs secure loans for their businesses when they have been unable to secure traditional bank financing. To find out more, visit PascoEDC.com.

Florida’s semiconductor industry
Gov. Ron DeSantis has announced a $50 million workforce development initiative dedicated to supporting Florida’s semiconductor industry. This initiative dedicates funds through FloridaCommerce and the Florida Department of Education to projects and workforce education opportunities that support semiconductor manufacturing, advanced packaging, and research and development within the military, defense, and space industries.

FloridaCommerce will dedicate $25 million of the money to the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund and the Florida Department of Education will dedicate $25 million through the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program.

Job figures remain healthy
FloridaCommerce has announced that Florida’s unemployment rate remained steady in August, at 2.7%, while the national average climbed three-tenths of a percent to 3.8%. The state’s August figure marks the 34th consecutive month that Florida’s unemployment rate was lower than the national rate, according to a state news release. Florida also extended its trend, which has lasted more than two years, for outpacing the national rate for private sector job growth and labor force growth.

NTBC seeking nominations
The North Tampa Bay Chamber is seeking nominations for its 2023 Celebrating Excellence in Business Awards, which will be presented on Nov. 16. Award categories are: Excellence in Innovation; Excellence in Collaboration; Excellence in Integrity; Excellence in Inclusivity; and Community Hero.

The chamber invites nominations for businesses that have demonstrated excellence in areas such as innovation, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, and community involvement, according to a chamber news release. Self-nominations are encouraged.

Applications are due by Oct. 6. They will be judged by a five-member independent panel between Oct. 9 and Oct. 13. The finalists will be announced on Oct. 27 and the awards will be presented at an event on Nov. 16.

For details, visit the chamber’s website at NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group has announced speakers for the organization’s upcoming breakfast meetings. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month, except for December, at 7:30 a.m., at the IHOP at 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City. Upcoming speakers are:

  • Oct. 10: Nikki Alvarez-Sowles, Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller
  • Nov. 14: Madonna Wise, local author and retired educator

Contact Nils Lenz at 813-782-9491 or , for more information.

Commerce & Coffee
The North Tampa Bay Chamber hosts Commerce & Coffee on the fourth Tuesday of each month, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., at Raining Berries, 25595 Sierra Center Blvd., in Lutz. It’s a chance for chamber members to network, without an agenda, in a relaxed setting.

SCORE mentors
Businesses needing help can get it from a SCORE mentor, and people with knowledge to share can volunteer to mentor others. SCORE welcomes those needing assistance, as well as those who are able to provide it. Find out more by visiting SCORE.org/pascohernando.

Business Celebrations
These business celebrations were recently held or will be held soon, based on news releases sent to The Laker/Lutz News, or postings on various organization websites:

  • Euphoric Ink Studio, 2107 Mariner Blvd., in Spring Hill, will host a grand opening on Sept. 29 at 6 p.m., with food, games, raffles and giveaways, and music by DJ Kue. For more information, visit the tattoo studio on Facebook. 
  • Esthetics813 had its grand opening celebrations on Sept. 15, Sept. 16 and Sept. 17 at its second location, at 5700 Saddlebrook Way in Wesley Chapel.
  • Subaru of Wesley Chapel had its grand opening on Sept. 7, at 26570 Silver Maple Parkway in Wesley Chapel.
  • Disruptive Marketing Headquarters hosted its grand opening on Aug. 24, at 9502 N. Florida Ave., Suite B, in Tampa.
  • Brightway Insurance had a ribbon-cutting on Aug. 21, at 2470 State Road 54 in Lutz.
  • Precious Paws Animal Hospital had a grand opening on Aug. 16, at 326 W. Bearss Ave., in Tampa.

Pasco EDC welcomes Don Anderson
Don Anderson has joined the Pasco Economic Development Council’s SMARTstart team and will manage the new West Pasco Entrepreneur Center in Holiday.

Business Digest 08/30/2023

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Maggie’s Snow Shoppe hosts grand opening
Maggie’s Snow Shoppe, a member of the Pasco Economic Development Council Inc.’s SMARTstart program, was set to have its grand opening celebration on Aug. 25 (after The Laker/Lutz News deadline).

Liz Guerra, founder of the flavored shave ice company, was inspired by the treats her grandmother provided when she was a child, according to a Pasco EDC news release.

“To watch her go from idea to a really neat and trendy mobile shave ice camper in such short order is what makes me love the work we do at SMARTstart,” Dan Mitchell, SMARTstart program director, said in the release.

Guerra’s business has evolved from serving shave ice treats from a tent at farmer’s markets to going mobile.

She uses all-natural fruit-based syrups, made in Pasco, the release says. Maggie’s Snow Shoppe sells a variety of shave ice with syrups and fruit toppings and has plans to add specialty sodas.

Her mobile camper will be serving up shave ice throughout the county and can often be found at 7th Street Mini Golf and Game Parlor.

Pasco EDC’s SMARTstart program is an innovative suite of programs that provides the tools new and growing businesses need for long-term success.

To find out more about SMARTstart and other Pasco EDC programs, visit PascoEDC.com.

Women in Business Empowerment Conference
Women in business who are looking for inspiration, who want to learn about practical tools that can be useful for entrepreneurs and who want to meet other like-minded women may want to check out the Women in Business Empowerment Conference. The event has a slate of featured speakers. It is scheduled for Sept. 15 from 8 .m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Residence Inn by Marriott, 2101 Northpointe Parkway, in Lutz. The registration cost is $20; the deadline for registration is Sept. 8. Register via https://rb.gy/iduj0.

Florida ranks No. 1 in jobs gained during July
Florida ranked No. 1 among the nation’s most populous states, in terms of job creation during July, according to a news release from FloridaCommerce.

The state attributes the high job growth to investments in infrastructure development, workforce training, broadband availability and state policies that continue to attract businesses to Florida. More than 2.5 million new businesses have formed and more than 1 million Floridians have joined the workforce during the past four years, which is highest in the nation, according to the state’s news release.

FloridaCommerce combines the state’s economic, workforce and community development efforts.

North Tampa Bay Chamber breakfast
Deagan Watson, president and CEO of North Tampa Behavioral Health, will be the featured speaker at the North Tampa Bay Chamber business breakfast on Sept. 5 from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. 

Cost is $25 for members and $30 for non-members. Registration must be made in advance. For more information, visit the chamber’s website at NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

New specialty shop opens in Lutz
Pickled Makers Local Shop and Studio opened in May, at 2020 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite 8, in Lutz. Each item in the store is locally made or curated, according to a news release from the business. The shop aims to be a one-stop shop for locally made products and gifts. To find out more, visit the shop’s website at PickledMakers.com.

J.Joseph Salon opens new location
J.Joseph Salon Wesley Chapel, at 1738 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, hosted a grand opening on Aug. 19.

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group (EPNG) meets on the second Tuesday of the month (except for December), at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, at 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City. The group’s meetings feature speakers from a wide array of backgrounds. Here is its upcoming slate of speakers:

  • Sept. 12: Todd Vande Berg, director of planning, City of Zephyrhills
  • Oct. 10: Nikki Alvarez-Sowles,  Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller
  • Nov. 14: Madonna Wise, author, local historian and retired educator

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

NTBC seeking nominations for awards
The North Tampa Bay Chamber is seeking nominations for its 2023 Celebrating Excellence in Business Awards, which will be presented on Nov. 16.

Award categories are: Excellence in Innovation; Excellence in Collaboration; Excellence in Integrity; Excellence in Inclusivity; and Community Hero.

The chamber invites nominations for businesses that have demonstrated excellence in areas such as innovation, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, and community involvement, according to a chamber news release. Self-nominations are encouraged.

Applications are due by Oct. 6. They will be judged by a five-member independent panel between Oct. 9 and Oct. 13. The finalists will be announced on Oct. 27 and the awards will be presented at an event on Nov. 16.

For details, visit the chamber’s website at NorthTampaBayChamber.com.

SCORE mentors
Businesses needing help can get it from a SCORE mentor, and people with knowledge to share can volunteer to mentor others. SCORE welcomes those needing assistance, as well as those who are able to provide it. Find out more by visiting SCORE.org/pascohernando.

Business Digest 08/23/2023

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Pulte Homes plans ‘Vida’s Way’ on portion of DePue Ranch
Pulte Homes is planning Vida’s Way — a residential development — on a portion of a ranch owned by one of Pasco County’s oldest families.

Pulte Homes has purchased more than 332 acres of an 1,800-acre tract that has been owned by the DePue family since the 1800s, according to a news release.

(Courtesy of Pulte Homes)

Vida’s Way, will be built on one of Pasco’s largest undeveloped properties, the release adds. The property is in Wesley Chapel, less than five miles from State Road 54 and State Road 56 with close proximity to Interstate-75. Pulte Homes has acquired the northeast corner of the ranch for more than 700 homes, for its first phase of construction.

The single-home community’s name is an homage to the late Vida Clair Barnes DePue, the family’s matriarch. She was instrumental in managing the ranch through the 1900s and transitioning it into the cattle operation it is today. She was 88 when she passed away in 2010, the release adds.

Pulte Group’s West Florida Division began speaking with the family in early 2020 after the family expressed interest in selling a portion of the ranch.  

“Many developers have reached out to us over the years, but we were impressed with the extensive time and effort the Pulte team took to learn about and understand our rich family history,” Michael Nutt, grandson of Vida DePue,” said in the release. “We believe Vida’s Way will be a lasting tribute to her life. We hope this community provides many years of memories for the families who live there.” 

“Over the last three years, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know the Nutt family and visiting their ranch,” Sean Strickler, president of Pulte’s West Florida Division, said in the release.

“The result has been a highly collaborative working relationship and the development of a community that not only honors their decades of hard work, but also looks to the future with additional residential and commercial development. We are incredibly honored and excited to bring Vida’s Way to the market.”  

Residents at Vida’s Way will be offered a unique collection of homesites and amenities.

Floor plans for Vida’s Way are coming soon. 

Pasco EDC names finalists for awards
Finalists have been named for the Pasco Economic Development Council’s 35th Annual Awards celebration. Those selected to be honored have demonstrated innovation and exhibited economic and community impact, according to a Pasco EDC news release. The 20 in the running for the top honors are:

  • 4 & Co.
  • Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas & West Pasco counties
  • 43 Inc.
  • Amerikey Locksmith
  • Just Market It
  • AmSkills
  • K & K Food Industries
  • Architectural Signage & Printing
  • Marjorie’s Hope
  • NEAT Coffee Bar LLC
  • Baymar Solutions LLC
  • NFFANT Labs
  • Davron
  • Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Center
  • Florida Avenue Brewing Co.
  • Suncoast Clinical Research Inc.
  • Fraud Doctor LLC
  • Ultimate 3D Printing Store
  • Global ETS LLC
  • Vesh Catering

Pasco EDC’s Policy Council also selected Ray Gadd, deputy superintendent of Pasco County Schools, for its annual Leadership Award, which goes to someone who has made an exceptional impact to economic development and to the Pasco County community, according to the release.

The event is scheduled for Sept. 7 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Instructional Performing Arts Center, 8657 Old Pasco Road, in Wesley Chapel. The event typically attracts more than 400 business and community leaders in Tampa Bay, as well as elected state, county and municipal leaders. Festivities include networking and dinner, as well as the awards presentation.

Tickets for the event are $85. For more information, contact , or call 813-355-0668. To register, go to PascoEDC.com.

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group (EPNG) meets on the second Tuesday of the month (except for December), at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, at 13100 U.S. 301, in Dade City. The group’s meetings feature speakers from a wide array of backgrounds. Here is its upcoming slate of speakers:

  • Sept. 12: Todd Vande Berg, director of planning, City of Zephyrhills
  • Oct. 10: Nikki Alvarez-Sowles,  Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller
  • Nov. 14: Madonna Wise, author, local historian and retired educator

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

NTBC seeking nominations for awards
The North Tampa Bay Chamber is seeking nominations for its 2023 Celebrating Excellence in Business Awards, which will be presented on Nov. 16.

Award categories are: Excellence in Innovation; Excellence in Collaboration; Excellence in Integrity; Excellence in Inclusivity; and Community Hero.

The chamber invites nominations for businesses that have demonstrated excellence in areas such as innovation, integrity, collaboration, inclusivity, and community involvement, according to a chamber news release. Self-nominations are encouraged.

Applications are due by Oct. 6. They will be judged by a five-member independent panel between Oct. 9 and Oct. 13. The finalists will be announced on Oct. 27 and the awards will be presented at an event on Nov. 16.

For additional details, visit the chamber’s website at NorthTampaBayChamber.com.