Lakeland AreA ChambeR oF Commerce Vol. XVIII, No. 10
Visit our Web site at October 2008 www.lakelandchamber.com
INSIDE EMERGE Hosts Book Review .. . . 4 Small Business Award ...... 6 You won’t want to miss this premier event! Catalyst Campaign ...... 9 Sponsorships and player spots are still available! New Members ...... 10 Call 863/688-8551 Ext. 242 for more details or Leadership Lakeland XXVI . . .11 e-mail [email protected] Members on the Move ...... 17 Ribbon Cuttings ...... 18 Partnership Between PCPS Career Academies and PCC’s Corporate College
As the Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) establish Career Academies throughout the county, the strong partnership forged with Polk Community College has become increasingly apparent. The collaborative efforts will certainly strengthen the workforce in our community. The PCC Corporate College has worked with numerous businesses throughout Polk County and has become the single source of training for many. As companies explore relocating to the market or expanding their current businesses, the Corporate College works with them at the earliest developmental stages to meet their workforce needs. The relationship between the Polk County School Board and the PCC Corporate College will prove to be a catalyst that will attract new businesses to the area, entice younger workers to stay in the community, and keep the community’s workforce skills and knowledge current. Channeling highly skilled employees to Polk County’s industries is a major goal of this partnership. A great example of this partnership can be seen with the new Central Florida Aviation and Aerospace Academy offered through Kathleen High School at the Florida Air Museum at Sun ‘n Fun. This initiative is just one of many that the PCC Corporate College and PCPS are presently working on that is designed to result in a larger aviation industry sector surrounding the Linder Airport. An initiative underway with Lakeland Electric represents another example of the partnership between PCC Corporate College and the PCPS. Lakeland Electric has partnered with both educational entities to prepare to meet the skilled labor demands predicted, as large numbers of baby boomers leave the workforce over the next five to ten years. The Corporate College’s role is to provide technical skills upgrades for the incumbent workforce, while the PCPS are building a Power Career Academy at Tenoroc High School to meet the future employment needs of the company by training and channeling skilled workers from within the community. The collaborative effort between PCC and the PCPS extends well beyond these two initiatives. PCPS is planning career academies in Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management that will coincide perfectly with the Corporate College’s manufacturing training Supply Chain Institute with Winter Haven High School. In addition, PCC has partnered with the PCPS to develop the Bartow Medical Academy at Bartow High School and the Academy of Legal Studies at George Jenkins High School. The partnerships between PCC and PCPS benefit our community by creating a pipeline of skilled workers to maintain and expand the local workforce, enabling future economic growth and stability for both individuals and businesses.
OpenHouse Celebration FOOD / FUN / DRINKS / DOOR PRIZES OCTOBER 30, 2008 • 4:00 - 7:00 PM Tour our newly expanded 4,800 sq. ft. facility. On-site demonstrations by Paul Mitchell® and Dermalogica® representatives. Visit us online to receive a FREE $20 Gift Card for first-time client visits. 5668 South Florida Avenue • 863.644.8663 • www.AllureBeautySalon.com
Full Service Hair Salon • Manicures & Pedicures • Facials • Massages MM #20937 • Body & Skin Care Treatments • Facial & Full Body Waxing • Special Occasion Packages
2 Upcoming Meetings & Events Volume All meetings are held at the Chamber unless otherwise noted.
Information: October 1 Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m. October 21 EMERGE Lakeland Steering, October 2008 Committee Meeting, 3:45 p.m. Vol. XVIII, No. 10 October 7 Chairman’s Circle Luncheon, Noon. Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, October 22 Board of Directors Meeting, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive. Noon. Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, 929 Lake Timothy F. Campbell October 8 Government Affairs, 8:00 a.m. Hollingsworth Drive. Chairman of the Board BusinessVoice, 9:00 a.m. Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m. Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m. Kathleen L. Munson October 23 Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m.
Publisher & President October 9 Leadership Lakeland XXVI, Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic City Government Day. Center, 1315 North Florida
Avenue. Business & Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. Aaron Bates Lakeland Habitat for Humanity, October 28 Investment Committee Meeting, Managing Editor 1317 George Jenkins Boulevard. 4:00 p.m.
October 15 Executive Committee Meeting, October 29 Entrepreneurial Academy, 4:00 p.m. 5:45 p.m.
Rachel Aycock Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m. Editor 863/669.8775 October 16 Politics in the Park - Free Admission,
Lake Mirror Promenade, 5:30 p.m.
683-1111 800 South Florida Ave. Lakeland, FL
3 EMERGE members participated in a book review by Dr. Larry Ross of Florida Southern College on August 12. Dr. Ross reviewed “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable,” by Patrick Lencioni. EMERGE members listened and asked questions while eating lunch at the President’s Dining Hall in the Charles T. Thrift Building on the campus of Florida Southern College. EMERGE Lakeland thanks Dr. Ross and Florida Southern College for a great event. Following the event EMERGE members delivered leftover food to the Talbot House in Lakeland. EMERGE members also participated in a presentation on branding for downtown Lakeland. The Lakeland Downtown Development Authority’s branding consultants We guarantee a good night’s sleep at the best possible conducted their second meeting to present and price! By listening to you, caring about your needs, gain community input regarding the branding and helping you select the best possible sleep system process of downtown Lakeland. Future branding meetings will be scheduled. within your budget, we’ll make sure you love your bed too! Visit www.emergelakeland.com to learn more about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities and development and social outings. You can also click on the EMERGE logo at www.lakelandchamber.com.
South Lakeland 701-7244 5688 South Florida Ave. Behind Ale House and Louie Mac’s Central Lakeland 603-0401 2125 South Florida Ave. Formerly Cleghorns, beside Starbucks North Lakeland 815-4688 4220 U.S. 98 North Next to Circuit City Winter Haven 299-0511 700 1st St. SW www.yoursleepcenter.com Citi Centre opposite Macy’s
SLEEP CENTER (3) 5.25X8.indd4 1 4/9/08 11:57:54 AM Evening & Weekend Programs Degree programs for working adults Pursuing a dream takes real courage. That’s why Southeastern University has designed programs with your needs in mind. Our convenient, accelerated, welcoming programs of study are personally enriching, professionally relevant, and grounded in the Christian worldview.
Undergraduate programs: Degree programs are offered in the evenings or online.
� B.S. in Criminal Justice (online only) � B.S. in Marketing � B.S. in Human Services � B.S. in Practical Theology � B.S. in Management Graduate programs: � M.B.A. � M.Ed. in Educational Leadership For more information or to apply for admission visit � M.Ed. in Elementary Education (with NBPTS preparation) www.seuniversity.edu or call 863.667.5018 � M.Ed. in Teaching & Learning (online only) � M.S. in Professional Counseling � M.S. in School Counseling � M.A. in Ministerial Leadership � Executive M.A. in Ministerial Leadership
1000 Longfellow Blvd. Lakeland, Florida 33801-6034 863.667.5018 toll free 800.500.8760
5 September Small Business of the Month Award Winner
Classic Controls, Inc. 5095 South Lakeland Drive • P.O. Box 6187 Lakeland, FL 33807-6187 863/644-3642 • www.classiccontrols.com
Classic Controls, Inc. is an instrumentation, valve, and system representative, serving industrial customers in the State of Florida in the power generation, chemical, phosphate, food, pulp & paper, water, and wastewater process markets. In 1991, Classic Controls, Inc. was founded by Ray Anderson, joined by Shawn Warren and two other employees. A year later Jim LeVine joined the team. Now in their 18th year of business, Classic Controls, Inc. has grown into one of the most respected representative firms in the State of Florida. Shawn and Jim recently completed their buyout from Ray, but Ray is still an integral part of the team. Together, Shawn, Jim, Ray and their 18 employees bring their talents and dedication together to serve their customers. Classic Controls, Inc. started as a pure sales office, but it quickly grew to add full service capabilities including instrument calibration & repair, system integration, and control valve repair. The owners and staff represent and service the highest quality Shawn Warren and Ray Anderson accept the September Small Business products that measure such things as flow, pressure, level, of the Month Award from Ginny Houghton (Allen & Company of Florida, temperature, pH, conductivity, etc. and monitor and control it with Inc.). systems small to large, down to the final control elements of control valves. When it comes to controls, they have it covered for your plant. BUSINESS BREAKFAST What’s the company’s key to success? & Its team! “We have been truly blessed Hosted by: in the quality of each employee that has Start Your joined our team and shares our vision of customer satisfaction” says co-owner Business Shawn Warren. That’s certainly not an easy undertaking- in addition to learning about each product and service, team members 1317 George Day must support each division equally. Jenkins Boulevard With The owners of Classic Controls, Inc. Thursday, October 9 live by the phrase, “Do the right thing”. 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. These simple words offer a solution to Us! complicated challenges and have been “Lakeland Economic the foundation of trust for their customers Development Update” Presenting and principals. Classic Controls, Inc. is Sponsor: also proud to “do the right thing” by Speaker: giving back to local communities, schools, Bill Mutz, Chairman of the Board youth sports and charities. They have Lakeland Economic been supporters of many charities and Development Council encourage employees to do the same. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Classic Controls, Inc. as the September Please R.S.V.P. by 5:00 p.m. the day prior to Small Business of the Month award the event to 863/688-8551 Ext 232 or $5 Chamber Member winner. E-mail: [email protected] $15 Non-Member 6 Commercial Looking for a Exterior Front Elevation Work & Build Outs Improving Reception Areas, Conference Rooms, Restrooms & Break Room Areas commercial Residential or residential Kitchen & Bath Specialists Master Suite Additions Garage / Lanai Conversions improvement Custom Homes Insurance Restoration specialist? (Water, Fire, Wind & Mold)
Call Waller Call today! 688-8870 today! ext. 308 Jimmy Waller [email protected] wallergroup.com
ext. 308 [email protected]
7 Time to Purchase a New Car!
Chamber members and potential new members enjoyed the outstanding hospitality of Regal Automotive Group and the Campisi family at our August Business After Hours. Gathering in the Honda Showroom, nearly 200 guests braved the remnants of Hurricane Fay to network and meet our newest members. The staff at Regal offered fabulous service, from shuttling people to the entrance to providing the DJ entertainment. There’s no doubt they entertained a few new car shoppers as well. Even the food was a big hit - offering many guests the opportunity to try something new - fried gator tail! Our thanks go out to Sal Campisi, Renee Campisi and the entire staff at Regal for a fabulous event.
Sal Campisi, Jr. accepts the Plaque of Appreciation
We bring royalty right to your home.
Granite, Marble & Travertine from the great mountains of India are now a short distance away at Royal Granite & Marble.
Enhance your project with the most beautiful natural stones from around the world. Despite the rain, members network “shoulder to shoulder”. . Semi-precious stones Available in a variety of . Flooring (Wood, Tiles & Porcelain) sizes, colors & finishes. . Sinks, Faucets & Vanities . Solid Wood Cabinets
2109 W. Memorial Blvd. & RGM Lakeland, FL 33815 & P (863) 688-2525 F (863) 688-2828 RGM GRRANOITEY & MAARBLLE
located on the NW corner of Wabash Ave & Memorial Blvd, 1/2 mile east of I-4 Members line up to brave tasting the fried gator tail! 8 Catalyst Campaign Celebrates Victory!
On September 16, Catalyst Campaign Chair Nancy Cattarius (WONN/WPCV/ WLKF/WWRZ Radio) claimed victory on behalf of 20 corporate teams and the Chamber of Commerce! As a part of Bank of Central Florida team members Jennifer their grand opening celebration, Leading Wearing their chocolate-making gear, Campaign Vaughn and Randy Hollen celebrate their progress Edge Aviation hosted a gala for board Chair Nancy Cattarius (WONN/WPCV/WLKF/ with Bank President Paul Noris at the Campaign members, volunteers and their dedicated WWRZ Radio) and Team Captain Kathy Wallen (The Kickoff. NCT Group CPA’s, LLP) show their Campaign pride! companies. Final results will be available in the November Forum for Business Monthly. Take a look back at our adventures from this summer…
Allen & Company of Florida Team Captain Nick Showing “pizza prowess” at the Kickoff: Vice Chair Stevens with Furr & Wegman Architects, PA team Kathryn Koch-O’Malley and the Colonial Bank team members Cindy Green & Crystal Lester work on Vice Chair Walker Wilkerson (The NCT Group Barbara Cadiz and Team Captain Nancy Kahrs. their Kickoff Pizza. CPA’s, LLP) carefully constructs his chocolate peanut butter cups at the Reward Reception.
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9OUR &ULL 3ERVICE &LORIST FOR 9EARS ,+ 9 The Chamber is Proud to Welcome 18 New Members for August 2008
Through their membership in the Chamber, businesses invest in themselves and their community. We urge you to “Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents!” by doing business with these new Chamber members. For the most up-to-date list of members, visit our on-line Preferred Business Directory at www.lakelandchamber.com!
AFLAC/Nadine Perez Dutch Ireland Insurance, LLC Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central Rounders Transportation & Logistics, Lakeland, FL 33809-5943 2031 E Edgewood Dr Ste 1 and Northern Florida Inc. (561) 865-1127 Lakeland 33803 1719 W Kennedy Blvd 2920 Drane Field Rd Nadine Perez PO Box 699 Tampa, FL 33606-1643 Lakeland, FL 33811-1329 Insurance Eaton Park, FL 33840-0699 (813) 288-2600 (863) 607-9810 (863) 816-5828 Fax: (813) 288-2605 (888) 687-5623 Art In Motion Academy of Dance www.di-ins.com www.wishcentral.org Fax: (863) 687-8035 1037 S Florida Ave Ste 105 Dutch Ireland Kristin See www.rounderstransport.com Lakeland, FL 33803-1199 Insurance Associations Jeff Cox, Jr. (863) 248-5888 Construction www.aimdance.net Fairfield Inn & Suites Papa John’s Pizza Jennifer Davis 4307 Sterling Commerce Dr 1849 E Memorial Blvd Total Advantage Beverage Group, LLC Dance Studio Plant City, FL 33566 Lakeland, FL 33801-2226 464 W Pipkin Rd Ste 1 (904) 249-9071 Ext 702 (863) 680-4000 Lakeland, FL 33813-2699 Backyard Adventures IIPC, LLC Fax: (904) 241-7743 Fax: (863) 688-4043 (863) 644-9100 3111 US Highway 98 S Ste 130 www.marriott.com/tpapc www.papajohnsflorida.com Fax: (863) 644-9144 Lakeland, FL 33803-8318 Lisa Dickinson George Cadorette www.xpress-caffe.com (863) 665-9876 Hotels/Suites Restaurants Gregory G. Smith Fax: (863) 665-4040 Beverages www.backyardadventuresfl.com Florida Gate Masters Papa John’s Pizza Jeremy & Trish Yost 5147 S Lakeland Dr Ste 3 3505 Cleveland Heights Blvd Wiley & Malless, LLC Entertainment Fun Center Lakeland, FL 33813-2610 Lakeland, FL 33803-4907 306 E Main St Ste 202 (863) 816-5838 (863) 619-7272 Lakeland, FL 33801-5023 Country Inn and Suites Fax: (863) 816-5840 Fax: (863) 619-3750 (863) 688-6880 4500 Lakeland Park Drive Byers Levy www.papajohnsflorida.com Fax: (863) 688-6887 Lakeland, FL 33809 Gate Access/Control Johnie Lewis www.wiley-malless.com www.countryinns.com/lakelandfl Restaurants James Malless Sheila Patel Franwell, Inc. Real Estate Hotels/Suites 2525 Drane Field Rd Ste 9 Papa John’s Pizza Lakeland, FL 33811-1344 6747 US Highway 98 N Create an Image Salon & Spa Inc. (863) 583-0228 Lakeland, FL 33809-6226 3500 S Florida Ave Ste 6 (800) 639-1615 (863) 858-9090 Lakeland, FL 33803-4869 Fax: (863) 577-0955 Fax: (863) 858-4829 (863) 701-2887 www.franwell.com www.papajohnsflorida.com Denise Lane Grady Morrell Ed Dimalanta Hair Salons Restaurants Integrity Reporting 3510 S Florida Ave Ste 101 Papa John’s Pizza Lakeland, FL 33803-4874 2105 E County Road 540 A (863) 647-2800 Lakeland, FL 33813-3794 Fax: (863) 647-0028 (863) 619-8700 www.integrityreporting.net Fax: (863) 647-2325 Suesanna M. Rice www.papajohnsflorida.com Court Reporters Justin Rutherford Restaurants
The Chamber would like to recognize and thank the following businesses for their long-standing support and loyalty: 20+ Years Renewals 1977 - 31 Years 15 Years Renewals Saddle Creek Corporation 1946 - 62 Years National Memorials Jim Williams Fence Company Gentry Morrison Funeral Home Southside 1978 - 30 Years MaxPak, LLC 1969 - 39 Years Yerton Leasing & Auto Sales, Inc. Ward’s Heating & Air Conditioning McDonald Construction Corporation 1980 - 28 Years 1970 - 38 Years SCMH Architects, Inc. 10 Years Renewals Gore’s, Inc. 1982 - 26 Years 1971 - 37 Years Robert L. Valentine, P.A. Law Offices of Colon & Lopez, P.A. Meisner Paint & Body, Inc. 1985 - 23 Years Baylis & Company, PA, CPA’s 1972 - 36 Years Knight Industrial Equipment, Inc. Talbot House Ministries, Inc. Williams & Williams, Inc. 1986 - 22 Years Mitchell’s Coffeehouse 1973 - 35 Years Polk Museum of Art Central Sheet Metal & Steel, Inc. Furr & Wegman Architects, P.A. Cheatham & Goleno Financial Services, P.A. 1987 - 21 Years 1974 - 34 Years 5 Years Renewals The NCT Group C.P.A.’s, LLP Santa Fe Catholic High School 1975 - 33 Years 1988 - 20 Years Health Insurance of Florida, Inc. Florida Baptist Childrens’ Homes, Inc. Baskets Instead, Inc. Masseys Painting, Inc. Poor Richard’s Print Shop Town & Country Termite & Pest Control, Inc. Ken Mullins Insurance Herndon & Associates, Insurance, LLC
10 Leadership Lakeland Class XXVI Selected
The Leadership Lakeland Class XXVI has been selected. Stacy Campbell- Domineck, Polk Works, will serve as chair of this year’s class and Art Erickson, Florida Lifestyle Communities will serve as Chair-Elect.
Christopher Asbill, Lanier Upshaw, Inc. Kandis Baker-Buford, Polk County Board of County Commissioners Sarah Case, JSK Consulting, Inc. Kay Cochran, Marriott Vacation Club International William Crowe, QMI/ITW Jerome Ferson, The Ledger Publishing Company Danita Frier, Central Florida Speech & Hearing Center Dr. Tarek Garas, Watson Clinic LLP Timothy Harris, The School Board of Polk County Ernie Ivey, Polk Community College Frederick John Koehler, II, Smart Creative Kelly Lane, Boys & Girls Clubs of Lakeland & Mulberry Michael LaPan, The Lakeland Center Gregory Madden, Madden Dan McBride, Victory Church Shawn McDonough, EXIT Realty of Lakeland Michael Micallef, Community Southern Bank Laura Newlin, Clark, Campbell & Mawhinney, P.A. Cory Petcoff, Baron Realty, Inc. James David Robinson, DSM Technology Consultants Linda Skillern, Crowe Horwath LLP Jacquelyn Small, Polk Works Michael Smith, Publix Super Markets, Inc. Monti Sommer, AMI Lakeland Anne Sullivan, The NCT Group CPA’s, LLP Tracey Tedder, Florida Southern College Naomi Tillett, Keith and Schnars, P.A. Jennifer Vaughn, Bank of Central Florida 11 August New Member Reception
The August New Member Reception was hosted by Stinson’s Home Design Center, located at 2315 Commerce Point Dr. Ste. 130. With nearly 20 new member representatives in attendance, they were introduced to what programs and events the Chamber has to help them build their business. Good food and lots of networking made the evening a great success. Everyone enjoyed looking at October 16 5:30—8 p.m. the new flooring available to homeowners. Thanks to the Stinson’s and their staff for
their hospitality. GENERAL ADMISSION IS FREE Riverside Bank is the Presenting Sponsor for the New Member Reception series.
Meet Local, State and Federal candidates Discuss Issues Participate in a Straw Poll Enjoy live entertainment, food and beverages Presidential Sponsors Coca-Cola Enterprises Colonial Bank The Ledger Publix Super Markets, Inc. WONN/WPCV/WLKF/WWRZ Radio Senatorial Sponsors Bernie Little Distributors Lakeland Electric
Straw Poll Sponsor Folsom Construction, Inc. Congressional Sponsors Aiken Offi ce Solutions CF Industries, Inc. New members listen as opportunities and programs Clark, Campbell and Mawhinney, PA The Fearn Partnership, Inc. are presented to them. Florida Strategic Group, LLC Lanier Upshaw, Inc. Party People Celebration Co. Ross Vecchio, PA Signs & Specialties, Inc. Valenti Campbell Trohn Tamayo & Aranda Verizon
Gubernatorial Sponsors Badcock Home Furniture & more Bank of Central Florida DMA Engineering, Inc. GLT Total Offi ce Griffi n Pools, Inc. The NCT Group CPA’s, LLP Parrish and Parrish CPA's, PA Rodda Construction, Inc. Sessums & Sessums, PA Solar Source Southside Cleaners - Launderers Ward’s Heating & Air Conditioning Watson Clinic LLP
HOSTED BY
Members network with one another. 12 2009 Board of Directors - Election Results
The Lakeland Area Chamber of HUGH AUTRY Commerce is pleased to announce Lakeland Regional Medical Center that the following business leaders TODD BAYLIS were elected by the Chamber’s Cipher Integrations, Inc. SYLVIA BLACKMON-ROBERTS 2,000+ member businesses to serve Blackmon Roberts Group, Inc. on the Chamber Board of Directors, GARY CASSARD effective January 1, 2009. Bright House Networks The tremendous leadership and DENIS COLE expertise of these individuals will be Firmenich of great benefit to the organization SCOTT GARDNER in carrying out its mission: SunTrust Bank The Lakeland Area Chamber TERRI GOLENO of Commerce is the leading Cheatham & Goleno Financial Services, P.A. organization dedicated to creating a TIM JACKSON NuJak Companies climate where business can prosper. JOE JOSEPH A special “thank you” to the Royal Granite & Marble LLC following Committee members: STEVE MOORE Chair Anu Saxena, Immediate Florida Property & Development Past Chair Paul Noris, Past Chair BOB MORROW Maureen Shaw, board members GEICO Nancy Cattarius, Melinda Harrison, TIM RICE and Walker Wilkerson. Ward’s Heating & Air Conditioning
13 Everyone Wants to Save Money! The August 14 Business & Breakfast was hosted by Bridgewater LLC in their beautiful multi-purpose room at the Lake Club. Members and guests were eager to hear Jeff Sprague, Lakeland Electric, speak on “Save Money with Energy Conservation”. Jeff presented a “heads-up” on new programs planned by Lakeland Electric to save consumers money. Thanks to Tracy Brown and the staff of Bridgewater for hosting the event. Presenting Sponsor for the 2008 Business & Breakfast series is Regions Bank. Chamber members network after the presentation.
Brenda Powers from Regions Bank speaks to Chamber members.
Tracy Brown, Marketing Coordinator for Bridgewater LLC, welcomes Chamber members.
Jeff Sprague, Lakeland Electric, gives his presentation to Chamber members. 14 2008 Chamber Annual Meeting Save The Date!
Tuesday, February 3, 2009 5:30 pm The Lakeland Center
Your invitation will be mailed in December!
August Tourism Inquiries
During the month of August, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds of individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses and the Lakeland community. Walk-in Visitors ...... 313 Relocation Response Mailings. . . 12 Relocation Response (Walk-In). . . . 22 Accommodations ...... 0 Winter Accommodations ...... 2 Visitor Information Mailings ...... 41 Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries. . . 258 15 Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce: 863/688-8551 EXECUTIVE OFFICE Harbsmeier DeZayas, LLP Kathleen Munson, president Ext. 234 - [email protected] 863.619.7330 Barbara Bennett, executive assistant Ext. 233 - [email protected] Specializing in Work-Related Issues For Employers Sally Chapman, vice president, finance & operations Ext. 240 - [email protected] COMMUNICATIONS rWorkers’ Compensation Defense Aaron Bates, vice president Ext. 237 - [email protected] r&NQMPZNFOU.BOVBMT Angela McLacklan, administrative assistant r6OFNQMPZNFOU$PNQFOTBUJPO)FBSJOHT Ext. 242 - [email protected] r1SPWJEJOH(SPVQ-FHBM4FSWJDFTGPSFNQMPZFFT CONVENTION & VISITORS Bureau Jackie Johnson, senior vice president Ext. 223 - [email protected] Angela McLacklan, administrative assistant Let us come talk to you about your work-related issues and Ext. 242 - [email protected] how we can provide other legal services for your employees. Patty Smith, visitor information specialist Ext. 221 - [email protected] MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Terry Ottinger, vice president Ext. 231 - [email protected] Mary Stevenson, administrative assistant Ext. 232 - [email protected] Nikki Oakley, membership account executive Ext. 239 - [email protected] Amy Wiggins, membership account executive Ext. 229 - [email protected] Matthew Wengerd, membership account executive Ext. 236 - [email protected] MEMBER RELATIONS Carolyn Jackson, senior vice president Ext. 230 - [email protected] Christine Murphy, administrative assistant Ext. 228 - [email protected]
PUBLIC AFFAIRS Ashley Link, vice president Ext. 241 - [email protected] Christine Murphy, administrative assistant Ext. 228 - [email protected] Visit the Lakeland Chamber Web site at: www.lakelandchamber.com LAKELAND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL: 863/687-3788
Steve Scruggs, executive director eleven attorneys practicing state-wide [email protected] Claudia Tritton, business development director [email protected] Lakeland | Tampa | Tallahassee Laura Taylor, assistant director [email protected] Visit the LEDC Web site at: www.lakelandedc.com HDALaw.com
16 October Members on the Move
The Lakeland Chamber prints business announcements each month as space permits. Please mail your announcements to the Chamber or e-mail [email protected]. Polk Theatre anesthesiologists. Duane C. Baker, MD Waller Construction, Inc. The historic Polk Theatre announces the will serve all Watson Clinic patients who Brain Waller, of Waller Construction, Inc. in 2008/2009 Board of Trustees. undergo procedures at Lakeland Surgical and Lakeland, Florida has earned the designation Officers: President, Meri Mass; President Diagnostic Center. Dr. Baker received his of Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) from Elect, Ira Anderson; Treasurer, Jim Ham III; medical degree from East Tennessee State the National Association of Home Builders Secretary, Philip D. Wegman, AIA; Immediate University, Quillen-Dishner College of (NAHB) Remodelers Council. Brian Waller Past President, Dale Dreyer. Medicine, in Johnson City, TN. is one of only 2,000 professional remodelers nationwide who have attained or are in the Board of Trustees: Tom Anderson, Nathaly SCORE process of earning the CGR certification. Arredondo, Calvin Arter, Jr., Cathalain Carter, Central Florida SCORE is looking for Brian Dockery, Sergui Gherman, Ann Hilliard, volunteers to mentor small businesses. Call Waller Development, Inc. Ashley Link, Zenapha Milton, Cory Petcoff, 863/619-5783. Waller Development of Lakeland announces Jennifer Rumph, Donovan Tinsley, Julie the current major redevelopment of the former Townsend, Cassandra Trohn, Joyce Tubb and Saddle Creek Corporation Stille Real Estate Building located at 1602 Ryan Tucholski. Improving efficiencies and accommodating South Florida Avenue. Waller Development seasonal fluctuations are two key reasons why has recently redeveloped Waller Plaza (801 December 2008 Celebrates Polk Theater’s Hornell Brewing Company, Inc., national South Florida Ave) and Dixieland CRA 2008 80th Anniversary. marketer of the famous Arizona ® brand iced Award Winning Waller Lofts (1074 South teas and other beverages, is turning to Saddle Florida Ave). The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Creek Corporation for its logistics needs in Channa Petrocelli, Business Development the Southeast. ASC geosciences, inc. Manager for M.E. Wilson Co., Inc. has signed ASC geosciences, inc., through its affiliate in on as corporate chair of the 2008 Polk Light The Bank of Central Florida New Delhi, India, has been awarded a contract Night® Walk, for the Central Florida Chapter Paul Noris, President and CEO of the Bank for geotechnical instrumentation services of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. of Central Florida, announced Gwyndolyn on an integrated gas utilization project in Light the Night is an annual fundraising Hughes will be the Private Banker for the new Angola on the west-African subcontinent. event held each fall to raise money for cancer South Lakeland office which will open in early The Angola LNG project, a joint venture of research and patient services. Participants at 2009. Ms. Hughes was most recently with 5 international energy firms, will ultimately the walk carry illuminated balloons – white Regions Bank as Assistant Vice President/ tap over 10 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves for survivors, red for supporters – to honor Assistant Branch manager. from offshore blocks near the city of Soyo in and commemorate lives touched by blood the Zaire province of Angola. cancer. In Central Florida, the Polk County Citizens Bank & Trust Walk will take place on Saturday, October 4th Citizens Bank & Trust is on the move again Allen & Company at Munn Park in downtown Lakeland. in Lakeland as Polk County’s oldest bank A group of professionals from Allen & continues its westward expansion. As the Company recently attended a conference Community Foundation of Greater signature tenant of the 6-story Citizens Bank facilitated by Cannon Financial Institute’s Lakeland, Inc. & Trust Plaza on Lake Morton, the bank Chief Executive Officer Phil Buchanan, CFP. The Community Foundation of Greater relocated its Downtown Lakeland office there The conference was part of a comprehensive Lakeland is pleased to announce that the in September.”The move to an existing high course study to obtain the Certified Wealth following business and community leaders quality office building enables us to expedite Strategist designation. have been elected to serve on the Foundations our schedule to offer a full-service banking, Board of Directors, for the 2008 – 2009 fiscal finance, lending, trust and investments center Allen & Company of Florida, Inc. is pleased year: Ralph Allen, Lew Belcourt, John Cannon in the downtown area,” said Citizens President to announce that Iradis Vazquez has joined the III, Brenda Craft, Lynn Fischer Kryger, Sam and CEO Greg Littleton. firm. Iradis comes to Allen & Company from Hart, A.L. “Judge” Holmes, Martha Linder, Fidelity Investments in Jacksonville, where Charles McPherson, John Scheck, Sandra Waller Realty, LLC she obtained her Series 7 and 63 securities Sheets, Ihla Sloman, David Touchton, Jefrey Jimmy Waller, managing Broker, has licenses. R. Walker, and Terry Worthington. The successfully completed the following, the tremendous leadership and expertise of these prestigious Certified Commercial Investment Representative Seth McKeel individuals will be of great benefit to the Member Designation course. The Foundation for Florida’s Future released organization in carrying out its mission. Florida’s Education Report Card, the inaugural Talitha Bean, Commercial Property Manager, guide on how well Florida’s legislatures are Watson Clinic has successfully completed the following keeping the promise of a quality education. Watson Clinic is pleased to welcome an course, Certified Property Management additional member to our expert team of Specialist Designation (CPMS). More Members on the Move on Page 18 17 Ribbon Cuttings The following companies recently celebrated their ribbon cuttings in the month of August. See these photos in full color by visiting our Web site at www.lakelandchamber.com!
Citrus Connection/Lakeland Area Mass Transit Dist. Explorations V Children’s Museum 1212 George Jenkins Boulevard, Lakeland, 33815 109 North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland, 33801 863/688-7433 Ext. 106 863/687-3869 www.ridecitrus.com www.explorationsv.com October Members on the Move Continued from Page 17 Rep. Seth McKeel earned a 106% on his Legislative Report Card based on his voting record for the 2008 Legislative Session.
Boys and Girls Clubs of Lakeland, Inc. Congratulations to Mitch Weinstein for being honored as Boys & Girls Clubs of America Board Member of the Year for the State of Florida.
Lakeland Christian School, Inc. Julie Rice has been appointed Director of Community Relations for Lakeland Christian School. She will be primarily responsible for introducing the school to prospective LCS families.
All Saints’ Academy All Saints’ Academy experienced extraordinary growth and has nearly outgrown the capacity of its infrastructure (pipes, pumping station, communications, etc.), therefore, the school My Pet’s Animal Hospital is in the midst of completing an important upgrade to ensure its 2225 Drane Field Road, Lakeland, 33801 current services meet the growing needs of the community and 863/646-3669 • www.floridavet.com students it serves.
Ribbon Cutting Thank You St. Joseph’s Catholic School St. Joseph’s Catholic School will celebrate 70 years of Catholic Special thanks to Mayor Buddy Fletcher and all of the board education on Thursday, October 30, 2008 at The Club at members and Chamber Champions who truly make these Eaglebrooke. Tables for 10 are $1,500 each and individual tickets ceremonies a special event. are $75. For more information, please contact the Development Office at 863/683-8780.
18 We keep your message rolling. Why Bus Advertising? Transit Facts • Go where your customers are — buses are where people are! • More than 20 Bus Routes Serving Customers 6 Days a Week • Reach them where decisions are made. Get them where they • Over 2 Million Rides a Year work, shop, eat or play. • 38 Buses and 15 Handy Buses in Today’s Fleet • Get the tough-to-reach customer (reaches all age groups). • Each Bus Averages over 6,000 Miles a Month • Lakeland Area / Polk County Focus Colorful buses available and waiting • No clutter. Simple. Direct. More impact! for your message, so call today! • Frequency and Reach. Affordable — best cost per thousand, just pennies a day! 688.RIDE (7433) www.RideCitrus.com
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=ifdc\]k1 @mfl:]jjqeYf$;`YajeYfg^l`]:gYj\ HYmdFgjak$Hj]ka\]fl';=G?j]_Jml`n]f$ =imYd@gmkaf_D]f\]j&E]eZ]j> 19 PAID FLORIDA Requested PRSRT STD PRSRT LAKELAND PERMIT # 31 PERMIT US POSTAGE Return Service Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce Lakeland 33802-3607 Box 3607 • Lakeland, FL P.O. Hosted by: Thursday, October 23 5:30 p.m. 1315 N. Florida Avenue Now you can R.S.V.P. online! Please visit www.lakelandchamber.com to register using the Chamber store or call by 5:00 p.m. the day prior to the event to 863/688-8551 Ext 301 or E-mail [email protected] $10 Chamber Member / $30 Non-Member 20