Hundreds attended the Pasco Economic Development Council’s 32nd annual Awards and Trade Show on Sept. 6, where Jay B. Starkey Jr., was honored and awards were bestowed in various categories.

Nominees were scored based on company growth, leadership in current business issues, and corporate citizenship. All 15 Award Finalists made great investments in their businesses and community, and that’s why it’s always so hard for the Award Committee to choose the winners. The six winners this year are a great representation of the diverse business climate we have in Pasco,” Bill Cronin, president/CEO of Pasco EDC, said in the news release. Jay B. Starkey Jr., was named the 2018 Leadership Award winner during the Pasco Economic Development Council’s 32nd annual Awards and Trade Show. Shown here, from left: Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC president and CEO; Kathryn Starkey, daughter-in-law of Jay B. Starkey Jr., and a Pasco County commissioner; Trey Starkey, Jay B. Starkey Jr.’s son; Jay B. Starkey Jr., 2018 Leadership Award winner; Marsha Starkey, the winner’s wife; and Zachary Starkey, the winner’s grandson.

The 2018 Pasco EDC Award Winners are:
• Business of the Year – Start-Up Category: Merrell Bros. Inc. What began as a small family operation now offers services in every state. Their Florida division opened in Pasco County in early 2017.
• Special Contribution: Morton Plant North Bay Hospital
The hospital opened in 1965 with a 50-bed facility and was the first hospital in New Port Richey. It continues to expand and has grown to 154 beds, enabling the hospital to offer more services, improved technology and greater convenience for patients.
• Business of the Year- Small Category: DC Johnson & Associates
Established in 1980 with the goal of providing land surveying services to specifically meet the needs of professionals involved in land acquisition and development.
• Business of the Year – Medium Category: San Antonio Lumber Co.
Over the past 90 years, their ability to adapt to an ever-changing and evolving industry is what has allowed them to weather even the most unstable times.
• Business of the Year – Large Category: Mettler Toledo
Their product inspection systems are used by manufacturers in many industries, including food, beverage, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, personal care, plastics and chemicals, to ensure the total quality of their products, and improve the efficiency of their manufacturing and packaging processes.
Starkey, who was honored with the Leadership Award, was recognized for his strong work ethic on the ranch and in his community, where he helped to shape the way for Pasco County.

Starkey served on the Pasco County School Board for eight years during the 1970s and sang in Master Chorale, an affiliate of the Florida Orchestra for more than 20 years, according to the release.