Published by the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of … by the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce ... Tim Linville, President Elect –E ... District 12 Rasmussen College

APRIL

April 5 | 7:00AM

Easter Sunrise Service

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills

Front Lawn

April 7 | 12:00 Noon

Ambassador Luncheon

Off Site

Smokehouse BBQ & Grill

5740 7th St. | Zephyrhills

April 15 | 8:00AM

Student Citizen of the Month

Chancey Road Christian Church

April 15 | 11:30AM

East Pasco Manufacturers Café

Zephyrhills Water

April 16 | 5:00-7:00pm

Mixer, Hosted by

Humana MarketPoint

7920 Gall Blvd | Zephyrhills

May 5 | 7:00-8:30AM

Chamber Breakfast

Sponsored by: ZEDC Committee

Golden Corral | Zephyrhills

Z’ Chamber Link

...A Community Connected Published by the Greater Zephyrhills

Chamber of Commerce

April, 2015 Edition

Founders Day Reception and Parade to Honor “Women: Making a Difference”

Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

October 2014-September 2015

Officers

Carolyn Hodges, President-Faithful Friends Pet Cremation

Tim Linville, President Elect –E-Z Clean Car Wash

Josh Schneidmiller, Vice President—Western & Southern Life

Skip Skairus, Treasurer-CenterState Bank

Gary Hatrick, Secretary -High Road Photography

Directors

Amy Chappell -Florida Traditions Bank

Bill Heinrich—Florida Hospital Zephyrhills

Darrell Pennington—Honorary Lifetime Member

David West—Inside Out Leadership Development

Deborah Densmore—North Tampa Behavioral Health

John Kinsman-Martin Electric

Kevin Ryman -Ryman Construction/Ryman Roofing

Rebecca Gaddis -San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union

Tom Vanater-Nabers Jewelers

Wade Thomas -Thomas and Son , Inc.

Ex-Officio Members

Councilman Ken Burgess---City Council Liaison

Vonnie Mikkelsen---Executive Director

Committees and Board Liaisons

Membership: Gary Hatrick

Economic Development / Government Affairs: Skip Skairus

Community Outreach: AJ Hernandez

Ambassadors Liaison: Gary Hatrick

Professional Staff

Vonnie Mikkelsen-Executive Director

[email protected]

Pat Pennington - Membership/Marketing Manager

[email protected]

Melonie Monson-Membership Services Coordinator

[email protected]

Tenci Alexander-Customer Service Specialist:

[email protected] (Business & Visitors Center Services)

Chamber Business Hours

Monday through Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

38550 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills 33542

Ph: (813)782-1913 / Fax: (813)783-6060

ZEPHYRHILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

YOUTH & EDUCATION PROGRAM DONORS Citizen of the Month and Scholarship Fund

2014 Bahr’s Propane Gas & AC

Church of the Living World

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills

Centennial Bank

Daniel Dwyer, Attorney-Mander Law Group

I R Staffing, Inc.

Jarrett Ford Dade City

Piccola Italia Restaurant

Rona Fletcher

San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union

The Ministerial Association of

Zephyrhills/Wesley Chapel

And...ALL of you who have participated in 50/50 drawings at Chamber events

Thank you for your generous

Support of Youth in our Community

As a direct result of your contributions, the

Chamber awarded $4000 in 2014 to local

graduating seniors pursuing their educational,

vocational and career goals.

The Chamber provides annual scholarships

funded through 50/50 drawings, events, and

individual or business donations. Scholarships

are awarded to local youth through a selection process in Spring of every year. If you or your

business wishes to participate, please call your

Chamber office.

Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

MEMBERSHIP Encourage membership through innovative programs, services and benefits

Frontier Title Group 5225 8th Street

Zephyrhills, FL 33542 Sheree’ P. Akins (813)788-2244 Title Insurance

VITIS Realty P.O. Box 2186

Dade City, Fl. 33526 Kim Barker

(813) 764-7653 Real Estate

Smokehouse BBQ and Grill 5740 7th Street

Zephyrhills, FL 33544 Mike Andrews (813) 788-6500

Restaurants

Wesley Chapel Toastmasters P.O. Box 2995

Zephyrhills, FL 33539 Sam Abrahani

(813) 863-4608 Professional Development

Springleaf Financial 7864 Gall Blvd.

Zephyrhills, FL 33541 Jaime Culzada (813) 788-5859

Loans Financial Services

MEMCO Properties P.O. Box 2995

Zephyrhills, FL 33539 Sam Abrahani

(813) 863-4608 Real Estate Investments

Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

MEMBERSHIP Encourage membership through innovative programs, services and benefits

For Renewing Your Membership American Cancer Society Lamplighter Furniture

Atonement Lutheran Church Mayoor Indian Restaurant

Boyd Jewelers Patty Hurlburt, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

Centennial Bank Peggy's Dance Place, Inc

Church of the Living Word Quilter's Quarters

Congressman Gus Bilirakis, District 12 Rasmussen College

East Pasco Adventist Academy Republican Party of Pasco

First National Bank of Pasco - SR 54 W Ron's New York Deli

Gator Vapor RX Care Pharmacy

Healthy Smiles Dental, Inc Sylvan Learning Center

Heritage Park The Commons on Pretty Pond

Jimmy's Sanitary Services, Inc Topline Tire & Auto Center

Trinity Church of Wesley Chapel

Upstream Office Solutions

Village Square Realty

Vicki Griepenburg, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services

Wal -Mart

Bronze Level Investors

Norm & Sons Tire & Auto Repair

Florida Medical Clinic

Members Find Value in Annual Investment Plans

Gold Level Investors

CenterState Bank

Bayfront Health

Dade City

Mosaic

San Antonio Citizens FCU

Platinum Level Investors

Your Chamber is working for you

Click HERE and HERE

to view latest video promos

ZEDC

“Clearly Zephyrhills” Marketing Publica-tions Available for

Download. Click on Cover at right to view.

Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development & Government Affairs Position the greater Zephyrhills area as the Preferred Location

for Business Growth in East Pasco County

Honor and Remember Flag Filed by

Representative Danny Burgess

(Tallahassee – March 17th) – Representative Danny Burgess has filed legislation to designate the Honor and Remember Flag as an emblem for the State of

Florida. House Bill 1147 and Senate Bill 1410 would designate the Honor and Remember Flag and encourages State and local governments to fly the flag on appro-priate dates. There is no mandate for either the State or for local governments. According to the Honor and Remember organization, this remembrance flag

recognizes all individuals who have died as a result of serving in the United States military dating back to the founding of our nation.

Representative Burgess said, “I am deeply honored to sponsor this good piece of legislation. Florida is continuing its efforts to be the most veteran-

friendly state in the nation, and this bill honors and remembers the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served and are currently

serving our country. "The companion measure, Senate Bill 1410 is sponsored by Senator John Legg. House Bill 1147 has been referred to the Government Oper-

ations Subcommittee and Senate Bill 1410 has been referred to the Military and Veterans Affairs Committee.

Hosted by Congressman Gus Bilirakis and the

Greater Zephyrhills and Dade City Chambers of Commerce

Over 30 Employers gathered to share ideals on how to locate, qualify and employ our vets

using resources on a local and state level.

Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development & Government Affairs Position the greater Zephyrhills area as the Preferred Location

for Business Growth in East Pasco County

From the desk of Shahra Anderson

Legislative Update for March

Combatting Identity Theft Related to Tax Fraud

On March 9, Senator Nelson introduced S. 676, the Identity Theft and Tax Fraud Prevention Act of 2015. The Govern-ment Accountability Office estimates that over the past 9 years, $5.2 billion per year has been stolen due to identity theft related to tax fraud. This legislation helps victims of identity theft by expediting their refunds, providing a single point of contact for victims, and expanding the IRS Personal Identification Number (PIN) Program. The bill also equips the IRS with tools to better combat identity theft crime, such as giving the agency access to the National Directory of New Hires and allowing the IRS to regulate paid tax return preparers.

Requesting Documents from Takata about Defective Airbags

On March 12, Senator Nelson, as Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, joined Chairman Thune in a follow-up letter to the Japanese company Takata, the manufacturer of defective airbag inflators. The bipartisan letter not-ed the company’s failure to turn over requested documents and asked that certain critical outstanding documents be deliv-ered to the Senate Commerce Committee no later than Friday, March 13.

Building a Public Safety Broadband Communications Network

On February 25, at a Senate Commerce Committee hearing, Senator Nelson, who serves as Ranking Member, recognized the work of FirstNet, the Federal organization responsible for developing and deploying a nationwide interoperable public safety wireless broadband network. At the Commerce Committee hearing, Senator Nelson reminded witnesses of the im-portance of this network to emergency responders nationwide. Senator Nelson also questioned Sue Swenson, the Chair-woman of FirstNet, about the plans to harden the network against cyberattacks and to make sure the network is resilient and reliable for first responders. To view the hearing visit: http://1.usa.gov/18L3JdR

Honoring Lena Horne

On March 10, Senator Nelson introduced S. 693, the Lena Horne Recognition Act, a bipartisan bill to award a Congres-sional Gold Medal to the late Lena Horne for her achievements and contributions to American culture and the Civil Rights Movement. Rep. Alcee Hastings filed the House companion bill.

Honoring Civil Rights Activist, Georgia Jones-Ayers

On March 12, the Senate unanimously approved S. Res. 85, a resolution cosponsored by Senator Nelson honoring the life and legacy of Georgia Jones-Ayers. Introduced by Senator Rubio, the resolution pays tribute to the prominent South Flor-ida civil rights activist who passed away on February 17. To view the resolution visit: http://1.usa.gov/1CpmfDY

Calling for return of Robert Levinson after 2007 disappearance in Iran

On March 10, Senator Nelson introduced Senate Resolution 99, calling on the Government of Iran to fulfill its promises of assistance in the case of Robert Levinson, the longest held United States civilian in our Nation’s history. Robert Levin-son, a retired FBI agent from Florida, disappeared off Kish Island, Iran, eight years ago. The resolution calls on Iran to fulfill its pledge to help locate the Floridian and return him to his family.

US Senator Bill Nelson

PASCO COUNTY, FLORIDA “Bringing Opportunities Home”

Board approves establishment of the

Jobs and Economic Opportunities

Trust Fund

~Board approves effort to grow the economy using Penny for Pasco proceeds~

PASCO COUNTY --- The Board of County Commissioners voted on Tuesday, March 24, 2015 to approve Penny for Pasco funds, estimated at $45 Million, to establish a Jobs and Economic Opportunities Trust Fund.

The resolution that was passed creates the trust fund and economic growth program. Pasco’s Office of Economic Growth is preparing to accept applications from developers and land owners to receive funds for projects.

The Jobs and Economic Opportunities Trust Fund allows Pasco County to make an investment in projects that promote long-term economic growth and community vitality through programs such as “ready sites” or “shell buildings.” The rea-son for Pasco participating in this type of investment is simple: companies considering an area to locate or build new fa-cilities want sites that are “ready-to-go.”

Having ready sites or spaces available for prospects will enable Pasco County to market and respond to leads that are cur-rently missed opportunities. Companies also want to see a quicker return on their capital investment. The quicker the pro-spect is actively running their operations, the quicker they can turn a profit. Intensifying the demand for ready sites is the fact that decision-making time frames of the prospects are shorter than they were in years past. Companies are not willing to wait for communities to find appropriate sites or buildings to determine suitability for development. That due diligence needs to be done before the prospect comes to the door.

“The Jobs and Economic Opportunities Trust Fund and Pasco’s Economic Growth Program could be the most exciting and innovative economic development program in the Tampa Bay Region or the State of Florida,” stated Michele Baker, County Administrator. “I believe this will make Pasco County even more attractive for a company looking to relocate or expand.”

After voters overwhelmingly approved the Penny for Pasco Renewal on November 6, 2012, Pasco County is now able to increase business recruitment efforts. Estimated revenues are expected to exceed $45 million for the Jobs and Economic Opportunities Trust Fund that will supply needed revenue for the Economic Growth Program and make Pasco more at-tractive for business location and expansion in the Tampa Bay region.

“Once again, we would like to express our appreciation to the voters of Pasco County, for renewing the Penny for Pasco, and adding in an element to fund economic development projects,” noted Chairman Ted Schrader. “Providing the envi-ronment to increase the number of higher-wage paying jobs is one of the priorities of our Strategic Plan, and something our residents deserve.”

In addition, a resolution was also passed to create the Jobs and Economic Opportunities Committee. The Jobs and Eco-nomic Opportunities Committee is a Board of County Commissioners appointed committee that will provide oversight to funded projects. The Office of Economic Growth will be accepting applications for interested persons from the manufac-turing, real estate, banking/finance, agricultural, or other private industry as well as general public are invited to apply for appointment.

For more information, including project updates and application information can be found at: http://www.pascocountyfl.net/Index.aspx?NID=2135.

Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development & Government Affairs Position the greater Zephyrhills area as the Preferred Location

for Business Growth in East Pasco County

Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

COMMUNITY OUTREACH Enhance the quality of life in the greater Zephyrhills community through

leadership, programs and fundraising

Membership

Encourage membership and retention through innovative programs, services and benefits

March Events

Sponsored by: The Lutz/Laker News

March 5

Membership

Encourage membership and retention through innovative programs, services and benefits

March Celebrations Annual St. Patrick’s Day Mixer Sponsored: by Rosecastle Assisted Living Facility

37411 Eiland Blvd. Zephyrhills

Membership

Encourage membership and retention through innovative programs, services and benefits

March Celebrations Elks Open House

6851 Wire Rd. Zephyrhills

Membership

Encourage membership and retention through innovative programs, services and benefits

March Ribbon Cuttings

Premier Community Health Lacoochee Family Health Center

38724 Mudcat Grand Blvd.

Membership

Encourage membership and retention through innovative programs, services and benefits

March Ribbon Cutting Hosted by Florida Hospital Zephyrhills

Dr. Stacy Tylor-Hunt D.O.

37908 Daughtery Rd.

COMMUNITY NEWS

Pasco County Extension Office

FREE Seminars

4/4/15 (Saturday)

9:00 - 11: a.m.

Perspectives on Fungi - Molds, Mildews, Mushrooms, and Man

From world religions to plant and human disease to foods and culture, fungi have shaped our world. Come to this FREE

Pasco Extension seminar to explore how these poorly under-stood beings make it possible for humans to exist.

Pasco County Extension

Clayton Hall 36702 State Road 52

Dade City

4/11/15 (Saturday)

9:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Vegetable Gardening for Small Spaces Would you like to grow your own nutritious vegetables but

have limited time and space? This FREE Pasco Extension presentation will show you how to get started so you can en-

joy home-grown vegetables year around, even if your growing space is a tiny patio or balcony.

Land O' Lakes Community Center 5401 Land O' Lakes Blvd. (US 41)

Land O' Lakes

4/7/15 (Tuesday)

6:30 - 7:40 p.m.

Colorful Caladiums Easy-to-care for caladiums in an array of stunning colors add drama to your garden. Come to this FREE Pasco Extension

seminar to find out how to plant and care for this low-maintenance plant.

Hudson Library

8012 Library Road (off Fivay Road)

Hudson

4/25/15 (Saturday)

10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

It's All About Dirt Get to know your garden's soil and how to nourish it so plants thrive in it year round by attending this FREE Pasco Extension

seminar

Home Depot 10017 US Hwy 19

Port Richey

4/11/15 (Saturday)

9:00 - 10:30 a.m.

Garden with the Fairies Learn how to make a miniature dish garden the fairies will

love. This FREE hands-on Pasco Extension seminar is full of suggestions for appropriate plants and fairy accents.

Land O' Lakes Community Center 5401 Land O' Lakes Blvd. (US 41)

Land O' Lakes

5/2/15 (Saturday)

9:00 - 11:00 a.m.

Water Ventures: An Exploration in Water Conservation This FREE Pasco Extension event is for children, accompa-

nied by an adult, to learn about water conservation. Hands-on activities include planting seeds in a greenhouse created from a glove, seeing how water and pollutants cycle through a wa-

tershed created by the child, and other related projects.

Pasco County Extension Clayton Hall

36702 State Road 52

Dade City

Community News

NAMES EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Fran Pate has been named 2014 Employee of the Year for Bayfront Health Dade City. The recognition is the highest honor a hospital em-ployee can receive.

Employees are nominated for the award by their colleagues based on their commitment to patient care, their professionalism and their contribu-tions on the job. Fran was chosen from among 325 employees for the recognition.

“Each employee plays an important role in de-livering quality care and creating the best possi-ble experience for our patients,” said Shauna McKinnon, Chief Executive Officer. “Fran ex-emplifies the best of who we are as healthcare providers through her dedication to our patients and the hospital. It is a pleasure to recognize Fran and celebrate the hard work of all our em-ployees.”

Fran has worked at Bayfront Health Dade City since February, 2002. She began her career in the pharmacy department and is a Registered Pharmacy Technician. Fran is also a member of the Resuscitation Committee at the hospital. When asked why she entered the healthcare pro-fession, Fran responded “I like helping people and doing something worthwhile by making their lives better.”

LEADERSHIP PASCO ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

FOR CLASS OF 2016

Leadership Pasco is now accepting applications for the Class of 2016. Emerging and existing community leaders who live or work in Pasco County are invited to apply. The Class of 2016 will be chosen from a competitive pool of applicants interested in learning about the important issues facing Pasco County and committed to utilizing their leadership abilities for its long-term benefit.

Since 1990, Leadership Pasco has introduced busi-ness and community leaders to major facets of the Pasco County community through an intensive ten-month course. Class members participate in full-day program sessions, tours and candid conversations with community leaders to broaden their local understanding of the ever changing needs of Pasco County. Topics include criminal justice, healthcare, educa-tion, government, infrastructure, media and business indus-tries.

In addition, each Leadership Pasco class is responsi-ble for making a positive impact within the community by organizing a Class Project that brings charitable people and resources together to address a particular social, educational, economic, environmental or cultural need in Pasco County.

Applications are available online at www.leadershippasco.com and applications are due no later than June 1, 2015. Applications will be reviewed by the Leadership Pasco Recruitment Committee in mid-June and selected Class of 2016 members will be contacted by the end of June 2015. Monthly program sessions begin with orienta-tion in August 2015 and conclude with a graduation ceremo-ny in May 2016.

For more than 25 years, Leadership Pasco has helped

to identify and recruit current or potential leaders of Pasco

County, facilitate the development and interaction of those

leaders, and to foster an issues-oriented learning environment

for those leaders and the citizens of Pasco County in order to

encourage an exchange of ideas and generate enthusiasm for

community growth and development. For more information,

call 727-534-4280 or visit www.leadershippasco.com.

Community

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills welcomed community leaders and resi-dents to a demolition party and gave them a preview of a newly, con-structed state-of-the-art CREATION® Health Wellness Center. The new facility, which will be three times the size of the current wellness center will be housed near the hospital campus on the Northeast cor-ner of Daughtery Road and Dairy Road.

“Our new Creation Health Wellness Center will foster an environment where people learn to live life to the fullest by maintaining health,” said Randy Surber, President and CEO of Florida Hospital Zephyrhills. “We want people to be able to do the things they love well into their later years.”

The CREATION® Health Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will provide something for everyone, including an expanded fitness floor and equipment, personal and group training space, expanded spa with man-icures, pedicures, body wraps and massage, Kid’s Zone, cooking demonstrations and much more. Members will continue to enjoy the Healthways SilverSneakers® Fitness Program, pool access for water aerobics, nutritional program and diabetes education. Membership presale for the new Wellness Center begins May 2015.

“By creating this wellness center we will become a beacon of light that can help empower our commu-nity to discover the victory in personal wellness,” said Casio Jones, Director of the Wellness Center. “Without our community we wouldn’t be here and our

community deserves a wellness center like this one. Wellness will be a big part in extending the healing ministry of Christ!”

The address for the new CREATION® Health Wellness Center is 38233 Daughtery Road, Zephyrhills, FL 33540. It will be open 24/7 with expanded staff hours. For more information, visit FHZeph.org.

Community B-17 Lands at the Zephyrhills

Municipal Airport

Thank you for Supporting Youth in Our Community!

MEDALLION SPONSOR

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills

BREAKFAST AND VENUE

Exciting Chancey Road Christian Church

GOLD SPONSORS

IR Staffing, Edward Jones Financial

First National Bank of Pasco, Mosaic, Rona Fletcher

San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union,

SUPPORTERS

Dannay Burgess, Florida House of Representatives,

District 38 - Letter of Commendation

City Of Zephyrhills Mayor, Gene Whitfield - Letter of Commendation

US Congressman, Gus Bilirakis - Letter of Commendation & Gift

Pasco County Clerk, Dr. Paula S. O’Neil - Certificates & Rulers

Pasco County Sheriff, Chris Nocco-Letter of Commendation

San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union-Piggy Banks

Creative Advantages - COM logo design & Proud Parent Bumper Stickers

Centennial Bank - School Supplies

Integrity Resources Staffing - Family Portrait Sitting

Ministerial Association of Zephyrhills & Wesley Chapel - Bibles

Rotary Club of Zephyrhills Noon - Carry Totes

Sonny’s Bar-B-Q - Gift Cards

Tampa Tribune –Media Sponsor

Student Citizens of the Month

THE BROACH SCHOOL

Aayden Sammons

CHESTER TAYLOR ELEMENTARY

Annalyse Gush

HERITAGE ACADEMY

Aspen du Mont

HOPE RANCH LEARNING ACADEMY

Larry “Trey” Chadwell

RAYMOND B. STEWART MIDDLE SCHOOL

Kaycee Velez-Santiago

WEST ZEPHYRHILLS ELEMENTARY

Catherine Hyer

WOODLAND ELEMENTARY

Djiah Jones

ZEPHYRHILLS HIGH SCHOOL

Ronald Loader

STUDENT CITIZEN OF THE MONTH A Program of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce Honoring Youth Citizenship since 1997

The Next Student Citizen of the Month will be held on March 11

March

CHAMBER NEWS

Being active in the local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy. It communicates to consumers that a company uses good practices, is reputable, cares about its customers, and is involved

in its community. ~ Study by the Shapiro Group

is everywhere

YOU can be too

Share your Posts, Tweets and Videos with us

~ We’ll Post it Forward ~

Follow and Tag on Twitter @ZHillsCOC

Like and Post on Facebook: ZhillsFacebook

NEW! View on YouTube: ZHillsChamberChannel Search Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce to find us

Your Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce Official Street Map & Visitor Guide

Stop by the office and pick up your copies today. Display them in your office or give them to clients.

FREE to you, and your customers

Pasco County Sherriff,

Chris Nocco

Newsletter

Clocks have been moved ahead, which means longer daylight hours and the weather is gearing up to provide the higher temper-atures known to draw people from all over the world to our great state. Spring is near and it’s a clear signal that pool season has arrived.

Parents and caregivers, it is imperative you take all the safety measures possible to protect children from the dangers that lurk in

and around the pool or any body of water for that matter. It’s time to get an early jump on reviewing – and improving, if need-ed – water safety habits. Florida is among the top states in the nation in relation to drowning deaths for children under 5 years old. About 1,000 children drown each year in the United States. Between 2011 and 2013, 200 children under the age of 5 died as a result of accidental drowning in Florida. Of those, two were from Pasco County. In all, 83 Pasco County residents – chil-dren and adults – have died from drowning from 2004-2013.

Florida Statute Chapter 515, the Residential Pool Safety Act, requires only one of four specified safety barriers for all swim-ming pools built after 2002. As a result, many backyard pools are readily – and dangerously – accessible to young children.

Florida Safe Pools is a water safety campaign established by Flor ida Suncoast Safe Kids Coalition led by All Children ’s Hospital. Since most young children gain access to the pool when least expected, Florida Safe Pools promotes the use of multi-ple “layers of protection,” which include barriers and alarms, to help parents and guardians. For more information, please visit their website at www.flsafepools.com.

For more information on pool and water safety, please visit the following links on your computer: Red Cross: http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/water-safety Pool Safely: http://www.poolsafely.gov/parents-families/ Kids Health: http://kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/outdoor/water_safety.html CDC: http://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/swimming/ Safe Kids: http://www.safekids.org/watersafety

The 1st layer of protection starts with you:

Pool safety starts with the caregiver. Persistent supervision

will help keep your little ones from accessing the pool area.

Limit distractions to yourself so you remain a constant vigil

on children.

The 3rd layer starts outside the home:

The backyard should be fenced

A safety fence should surround the pool

Self-closing gates should be included on the pool fence

Alarms should be placed on gates

Keep furniture away from the fence, since little ones love to

climb!

Hot tubs should have a locking cover

The 2nd layer starts inside the home:

Door alarms should be on all exterior doors leading to a

pool area

Access to exterior doors should be limited to adults

Childproof door locks should be in place

Have a clear view of the pool from inside the house

The 4th layer begins in the pool area:

Keep toys & floating objects out of the pool, since these can

entice children

Remove trip hazards away from the pool’s edge

Keep water levels 3-4 inches from the top

Wave alarms can be placed in the pool

Pool covers can be used when pool is not in use

Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce

Ambassadors Gary Hatrick, Program Chair

Be our guest at the monthly Ambassadors Luncheon

First Tuesday of the Month * 12Noon

Chamber Office 38550 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills

Call for Info and to RSVP: (813) 782-1913

Ambassador Program Sponsor

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills

AMBASSADORS’ CORNER

Jennifer Clapper

Don Edwards

Rachel LeBlanc

Diana MacDiarmid

Nils Lenz

Tim Mitchell

Tim Dozier

Nick Lenz

Stephanie Stephenson

Katy Boyd

Leigh Cant

Vicky Jones

Lee Heffelfinger

Brad Bricker

George Swatzbaugh III

Bob Webb

Cheryl Hinton

Carolyn Hodges

John MacDiarmid

Gary Hatrick

Cliff McDuffie

Lindsay Johnson

Jeannette Hall

Miriam Hansford

Sam Abrahani

Lee Maggard

Sigrid Green

Suzanne Beauchaine

George Kendall

Russ Heffelfinger

Roxxy Bricker

Rod Rehrig

Michelle Crowder-Soellner

Ambassadors are the

of your Chamber

Lady the Chamber Cat

In Loving Memory

We dedicate this month’s Newsletter to

Lady Chamber of Commerce Official Greeter and

Chief in Charge of Hospitality 2012-2015

Ambassador Notables

Thank you to our fabulous ambassador parade walkers for helping with the

Founders Day Parade this year.

Sam Abrahani | Katy Boyd and her girls Vicky Jones | Russ & Lee Heffelfinger Bob Web | Carolyn Hodges | Darrell

Pennington. We had a great turnout this year to help hand out candy and

100’s of Authentic Mardi Gras Beads so graciously donated by Russ & Lee Hef-

The second quarter of 2015 begins with municipal elections in three of six Pasco County municipalities on April 14th. The cities of Port Richey, San

Antonio and Zephyrhills will be holding elections for voters residing within those city limits. Historically, the turnout is low for municipal elections in

Pasco County. In light of the fact that locally elected officials have more of an impact on the daily lives of citizens, this should be surprising! That be-ing said, I hope the citizens of Pasco’s municipalities disprove my state-ment, and turn out in record numbers on April 14th. In addition to the standard requirements of voter eligibility, to vote in a municipal election

you must reside within the legal city limits. This does not include owning a business within city limits, and eligibility cannot be assumed based solely

on the city of your mailing address. For any questions regarding your eligi-bility to vote in the upcoming municipal elections, please call my office at 800-851-8754. If you have moved into city limits and your voter registra-

tion address is not up-to-date, notifying the office before going to the polls will save you time. Municipal elections are funded by the individual cities

with my office serving as facilitator. City candidates work through city halls to fi le qualifying paperwork and establish their candidacy. These elections may be small but are no less important. In typical Pasco County fashion, we will fulfill our obligation with extreme attention to detail and accuracy.

• Zephyrhills voters will vote at Alice Hall

Community Center, 38116 5th Avenue.

• Municipal voters who wish to vote in person

before election day may do so through

Monday, April 13, at their respective city

hall during regularly scheduled business

hours, or one of the three Supervisor of

Elections’ offices by 5:00 p.m.

Registration Statistics

As of March 25, 2015

Republican 115,939

Democrat 101,038

Other 87,514

Total 304,491

MULTIPLE CATEGORY LISTINGS AVAILABLE

IN THE ONLINE DIRECTORY

Multiple Category Listings are being

offered for a one time fee of $20 / listing.

This offer is in addition to the One

Alphabetical listing and One Categorical listing

offered free of charge with your annual membership

dues. If you are interested in listing your

organization under more than one category please

call your Chamber Office: 813.782.1913

Member Services Menu

Advertising: Email Blast or One Full-Page

Newsletter Insert Ad 1 time a year with renewal

Business Listing: Alphabetical and Categorical

in Community Profile and Membership Directory

(6000 copies) and On-line Directory

Exclusive Referral Service: We refer inquiries

only to Chamber members…over 10,000 inquiries a

year

Brochure and Business Card Display: The

Visitors Center reserves a place for you to place

your information

Networking: Free or discounted entry to all

Chamber events

Ribbon Cutting: You set the date, we promote

for you

Electronic Newsletter: To keep you informed

and connected

Chamber E-Mail List: Receive regular commu-

nity and Chamber updates.

Membership Plaque: To display at your

business

Seminars and Workshops: Free or discounted

admission to all Chamber-sponsored programs

Leadership: Eligibility for Chamber leadership

roles such as Ambassadors, Committees, Task

Forces , and Board of Directors

Representation: The Chamber represents the

best interests of the business community at local,

regional and state level

Discounts: Notary services, Chamber Room

Rental, Non-profit advertising rates, Member-to-

Member offers

Access to USF Small Business Development

Center, SCORE and other professional consulting

services

Business Spotlight, tell us about your

business, simple, short, personal, it’s up to you and

it will be put in our monthly newsletter

Chamber Visitors Center Advertising

The Business and Visitors Center receives over 6,000

visitors a year. Why not welcome them with your mes-

sage framed in a premier place around the informa-

tional display case? Your cost as a member is only

$100 (8 1/2 x 11 ) for 12 months making this one of the

most cost effective advertising opportunity available.

Call 813-782-1913.

Here is a sneak preview of your 2015-2016

Community & Business Guide

coming to you soon, look for our launch in April

Monthly Business Breakfast

Your Chamber’s Top-Rated

Networking Program

Speaker Program—Sponsorships Available

It is your best opportunity to show-

case your business and your team to a

captive and well-connected audience.

Schedule Your Breakfast Sponsorship Today

Call: (813) 782-1913

www.ZephyrhillsChamber.org

FIND A BUSINESS OR SERVICE

through your trusted source at

www.ZephyrhillsChamber.org

Bookmark the page on your desktop and mobile device!

One of your Chamber’s top priority is to raise awareness with consumers

about the importance of shopping local. The message is simple and it is clear.

“Invest in Your Community. Buy Local. Find a Business or Service through

your Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce.” Chances are, if you’re a

Chamber Member you already know the value of keeping this message alive

in your own business, with your employees, and at home.

REFRESHER COURSE

Do business with a Chamber Member

Encourage your employees to do business with a Chamber member

Keep a handful of Chamber Directories in your office

to hand out to your clients

Refer a friend, colleague or client to another Chamber Member

Refer a business to the Chamber

Invite your employees, colleagues or friends to attend Chamber

networking events—especially if you don’t have the time.

Your Chamber office or leadership team will check in with you from time

to time to learn what you’re working on.

And remember, we welcome your visit or call and the opportunity to

serve you at any time.

WANTED Your Events, Did you know that we will list your event on our community calendar ? All you have to do is provide your event information in written form and

we will list it on the community calendar on the website, please allow 5 days for event to be published.

Announcements, Awards Business Accomplishments or Press release

When space allows we will publish Chamber Member announcements in the newsletter, deadline is the 3rd

Friday of each month.

813-948-9109

Chamber Newsletter Advertising

. 6 Month 12 Month .

Business Card $60.00 $110.00

¼ Page $90.00 $160.00

½ Page $180.00 $300.00

. One Month Non-Profit .

Full Page $75.00 $50.00

MEMBERS ADVANTAGE

Remember, when you renew your membership you receive a free insert into the newsletter a $75.00 value or e-mail blast a value of $50.00 that goes out to

all the Chamber Members. The newsletter is found on the chamber

website and not only seen by members, but by all visitors to the website. For an update on services and benefits of your membership

please “Join us for Java” our quarterly “Member Connection” meeting or simply pick

up the phone and call us! 813-782-1913

Affordable Advertising for Members

Visitors Center Lobby

Did you know We have over 12,000 inquires about the greater Zephyrhills area.

Do we have your most current and up to date information about your business or service? If not you may be missing out on customer referrals.

Our busy months will soon be over. Don’t miss this opportunity to inform visitors about your product or service.