LA KELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMME R C E
F O R B U S IN E SS AUGUST 2011 | Vol. xXI, No. 8
Get Your Business Ready for LEGOLAND Visitors
the dollars & cents of
BUY LAKELAND. It Makes GOOD cents!
Lakelandchamber.com
CHAMBER STAFF K a t h l een L . M unson President
KMunson@LakelandChamber.com
B a rb a r a B enne t t Executive Assistant
BBennett@LakelandChamber.com
S a l ly C h a p m a n
Vice President, Finance & Administration
SChapman@LakelandChamber.com
Y a d ir a P. Ho l mes Vice President, Public Affairs
YHolmes@LakelandChamber.com
L a ke l a n d Are a C h a mber of C ommerce F orum for B usiness M on t h l y A l ice Hun t | C h a irm a n of t h e B o a r d Hunt Construction of Central Florida, Inc.
K a t h l een L . M unson | Pub l is h er Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce
Am y S . W i g g ins | E d i t or
C a ro l y n J a ckson
Senior Vice President, Member Relations
CJackson@LakelandChamber.com
J a c q ue l ine L . J o h nson
Senior Vice President, Convention & Visitors Bureau
JackieJ@LakelandChamber.com
Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce
C E Desi g n co . | C re a t i v e Direc t ion & P R O D U C T I O N www.cedesignco.com
T h om a s H a g er t y
K a t ie M c B ri d e - M c K en z ie Membership Account Executive
KMcBride-McKenzie@LakelandChamber.com
Contributing Photographer
C h ris t ine M ur p h y
Administrative Assistant, Member Relations | Public Affairs
CMurphy@LakelandChamber.com
& Breakfast August 11, 2011
N ikki O a k l e y
Membership Account Executive
NOakley@LakelandChamber.com
Terr y O t t in g er
Vice President, Membership Development
TOttinger@LakelandChamber.com
7:30 a.m. 1350 Sleepy Hill Rd Valencia Hills Health & Rehabilitation Center
Administrative Assistant, Membership Development Visitor Information Specialist
New Trends in Businesss Technology A must-attend for Business owners, HR professionals, managers & supervisors
Administrative Assistant, Communications Convention & Visitors Bureau
P a t t y S mi t h
PSmith@LakelandChamber.com
R e v en a T h om a s
RThomas@LakelandChamber.com
Am y W i g g ins
Vice President, Communications
AWiggins@LakelandChamber.com
35 Lake Morton Drive PO Box 3607 Lakeland, FL 33802-3607 (863) 688-8551 LakelandChamber.com
$5 Chamber Member ~ $15 Non Chamber Member Your R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit LakelandChamber.com to register.
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Š 2011 Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to refuse certain advertising and is not liable for advertisers claims and/or errors. The opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the position of the Chamber.
family vacations
amy & andy dennis www.cedesignco.com
amy and andy dennis usually take their vacations to the extreme. Here they are jumping off the china walls in Honolulu, Hawaii! Nic and Jason Percy
Rose Mary Judy enjoys a visit
to Disney World with her
daughters Alisa & Danielle. LolliDa.com
At Venice Beach, collecting Shells and Shark Teeth. Photography by Kerri Percy www.Keiser.edu
Bobby Yates (Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine) & Dorene Yates (Florida Rural Legal Services) pose with daughter Alyssa and Good Morning America Anchor Robin Roberts. LVIM.net & FRLS.org
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Presents
Small Business HeaLTH CaRe Forum
Learn about Prevention & Wellness and the Direction of Health Care Reform
Friday, September 16
8:00 am - noon • The Lakeland Center (Lake Hollingsworth Room)
R DooES! PRiz
• Free Admission to Area Small Business Employers • Complimentary Continental Breakfast & Refreshments
One of the major problems small business employers face is navigating the health care system. At this Forum, you will learn of wellness initiatives and the advantages for small business employer health care programs.
Insurance professionals will cover the information you need to know in obtaining the most comprehensive, affordable coverage for you and your employees. IF yOu Are A smAll busIness emplOyer, yOu need tO Attend thIs ImpOrtAnt FOrum.
Reserve your seat today by visiting Healthcare.LakelandChamber.com For more information, call the Lakeland Chamber at (863) 688-8551, Ext. 233 Brought to you by the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce and the following sponsors:
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CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE MEMBERS WELCOME TAMPA MAYOR BOB BUCKHORN The Chairman’s Circle hosted its Spring Business Luncheon on June 9, and welcomed Tampa’s new Mayor, Bob Buckhorn, as a special guest. Lakeland Mayor Gow Fields introduced Mayor Buckhorn, who was elected in April as Tampa’s full-time mayor. Tampa is the third largest city in Florida and 55th largest city in the nation, and will host the 2012 Republican National Convention. Mayor Buckhorn shared his goals to change Tampa’s economic DNA and the opportunities and challenges facing the city. Following his remarks, Chair Joe L. Ruthven facilitated a Q&A session with the two mayors. The Chairman’s Circle is a special membership forum for senior level executives. The forum provides members with the opportunity to meet with one another, build relationships, and participate in strategic marketing and leadership events to enhance their businesses and the overall Lakeland business community. The following business leaders are members of the Chairman’s Circle: Ralph Allen, Allen & Company of Florida Ira Anderson, Crowe Horwath LLP Dean Boring, Boring Business Systems Timothy F. Campbell, Clark, Campbell,
Jim Chaffin, SunTrust Bank
Mike Carter, LarsonAllen, LLP
Ralph Weeks, Quality Petroleum Corporation
Gary Cassard, Bright House Networks
Al Wolny, Pepperidge Farm, Inc.
Mawhinney & Lancaster, P.A.
Dale Dreyer, CenterState Bank Ken Ely, Platinum Bank Art Erickson, Florida Lifestyle Communities Gow Fields, City of Lakeland Scott Franklin, Lanier Upshaw, Inc. Mike Furr, Furr & Wegman Architects, P.A. Kamal Haider, M.D., Clark & Daughtrey Medical Group, P.A.
Ford Heacock, Heacock Insurance Group Dr. Eileen Holden, Polk State College
Chairman’s Circle Chair Joe L. Ruthven, Lakeland Mayor Gow Fields, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, Chamber Chair Alice Hunt, Chamber President Kathleen Munson
Clayton Hollis, Publix Super Markets, Inc. Robert Loftin, BB&T Katrina Lunsford, Wells Fargo Bank Leonard Mass, Drummond Company, Inc. Mike McGee, McGee Auto Service and Tires Mark Miller, GrayRobinson, P.A. Bob Puterbaugh, Peterson & Myers, P.A. George Rogers, GEICO Art Rowbotham, WONN/WPCV/WLKF/WWRZ Radio Joe P. Ruthven, The Ruthvens Dr. Louis Saco, Watson Clinic LLP Chas P. Smith, CPS Investment Advisors Dr. Elaine Thompson, Lakeland Regional Medical Center
Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn
Extraordinary LIVING
WELCOME TO THE SANCTUARY.
A limited and unique collection of estate villa homes, The Sanctuary is located within the most prestigious country club community of Grasslands Golf & Country Club. These Tuscan-style villas have exquisite features that set them apart from all other homes. Call or visit our Sales Center to see how you can experience extraordinary
living at Lakeland’s Most Coveted Address. Estate villas starting from the $600’s. OFFICE HOURS: MON TO FRI 9-5 | SAT 10-5 | SUN 12-5 PAT JONES 863.581.4699 OR DEBBIE HASKELL 863.602.8830 | 866.668.1227 1301 GRASSLANDS BLVD., ST. 100 | LAKELAND, FL 33803 | WWW.OAKBRIDGE.COM
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• WORKERS COMP • EMPLOYEE BENEFITS • PAYROLL PROCESSING & TAXES
HOW TO
A M O N T H LY
Heacock Payroll offers employers a complete payroll processing service which can combine your payroll taxes, workers’ compensation and employee benefits. Allowing you to spend more time on your business
Kimberly Johnson Hilton Garden Inn
Director of Sales
CONNECT ] Lakeland.HGI.com
and less time on paperwork.
You spend more time on your business and less time on paperwork.
.HEACOCK.COM
WWW
100 E Main St. • Lakeland, FL • 863.683.2220 1105 US Hwy 27 North • Sebring, FL • 863.385.5171
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In this challenging economic climate, businesses and their owners must think of creative ways to increase their revenue. Using your building’s “built-in” benefits not only provides you with existing assets but also challenges you and your employees to “think outside the box” when developing marketing strategies for your business. Creativity can prosper by making small changes that can provide additional revenue to your business without adding additional labor or costs. Your first step is to outline what your building’s assets are and what value they offer. Listen to what your customers are saying – they might provide you with the creative spark to use one of your existing assets in a new and exciting way! Next, think of how you can make use of what your business has to offer. Are you a restaurant that has limited hours? Do you receive lots of inquiries during your off hours? Open your space during off-peak times and offer special catered luncheon pricing to your local neighbors as a new option for their V.I.P. clients. This provides an added value service for your customers – a way to impress their clientele with a special menu and generate additional loyalty. Does your building have a historical value or location in a unique setting? Open it up as a site for photography or film crews as a location. People are always looking for new and different venues to capture a moment or show off some of Lakeland’s history. Do you have space in your building that is not being used? Transform it into a meeting space where local entrepreneurs can rent out and use for their own business needs. This provides local businesses with an affordable meeting option and generates additional revenue. Do you have extra space in your parking facility? Partner with your local charity of choice and hold a rummage sale that not only boosts your client base but also gives back to the community. Lastly, once you’ve determined your plan, create a team that you can help you implement the idea. With a group helping you can get the idea started quickly and provide a positive environment to utilize this “new” asset and create additional value for your business.
Your first step is to outline what your building’s assets are and what value they offer.
Next, think of how you can make use of what your business has to offer.
Lastly, once you’ve determined your plan, create a team that can help you implement the idea.
a
MARKETING MINUTE worth
In this ever growing, fast-paced society, some of the normal venues of marketing have changed. It is not only acceptable given these economic times, but necessary to change the way we do business. We Sean East must also re-visit some Beef o’ brady’s of those venues that MANAGER helped create and define this country. The type of business that you have will dictate your marketing strategy. The one that I am most familiar with is the restaurant industry, so I will be pulling from my experiences as a guideline. Getting one’s QMI_Biz_Journal_ad.pdf 1 5/12/11 5:00 name out there is both
PM
millions
easier and harder to do than just 10 years ago. While there are a plethora of advertising avenues to take, one has to remember that there are also many more businesses, such as yours, that want your piece of the pie. The barter system is back! Well, it never really left… People just didn’t use it as much as before. This simple way of acquiring goods/services for your goods/services is an economical way of saving some money while also… Building relationships. People are/will be
more apt to purchase goods/services if they know the providers on a personal level. Building relationships is not easy; sometimes you have to make ‘cold calls’ to get your foot in the door. Then it is up to the individual on how to build that relationship. I like to bring some samples of my food to the places I would like to acquire business. Businesses with similar interests are another way to go. By tag-teaming with other businesses that are in cooperation, and not competition with each other, allows the
businesses to share contacts and maybe even ‘best practices.’ Nothing says commitment to the community like giving back to the community. Organize an event and let everyone be involved. I like to do “Spirit Nights” where we team up with an organization and they have their members come in and eat dinner. We then would “Give Back” a certain percentage of the sales to contribute to their particular organization. Social Media is a very powerful tool to use in the ways of
marketing and much of it can be done for free, such as Facebook and FourSquare. It is definitely a way to reach a lot of people in a minimal amount of time, however, one still needs to build that relationship in order to succeed. In conclusion, a lot of businesses, large or small, are getting back to basics and ‘pounding the pavement’ in order to maximize exposure without breaking the bank.
CONNECT ] BeefOBradys.com
C OVE R F E AT U R E
B
Julie Casey, The Restaurant Mom TheRestaurantMom.com
eing a family-friendly business isn’t about a playground, face painting, or highchairs. Rather, it’s about several small things which when they are combined, provide an experience of your business for a family, which then results in their returning to your facility again and again. Becoming more of a family-friendly business is too important, too affordable, and way too easy for any business to knowingly miss out on these opportunities LEGOLAND is bringing to this community. We’ve been hearing it for months now as though “Polk” Revere has delivered the message personally: “The families are coming! The families are coming.” But did you know that the families are already here? Polk County has some of the highest numbers of families (64% - 72%), more than even the National average of roughly 50%. Florida resident travel to the Orlando area in 2010 was higher than visitors from all other areas combined. So with little effort, one could assume that the Lakeland area would get their fair share of some of those numbers with the opening of 8
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LEGOLAND Florida. But don’t become a more familyfriendly business because of LEGOLAND, do it because the timing couldn’t be better. You have families in your backyard, Florida residents are Florida’s best customers, and it’s too important, too easy and too affordable not to do it. There’s little arguing that the recession has had a hammering impact on the Lakeland area and the state as a whole. Before the recession many businesses had little to no marketing plan much less one that targeted a specific market segment like families. The recession has taught us to be more diligent in our spending habits personally and with our businesses. Marketing can no longer be painted with a broad stroke and has to be done more strategically to be able to do more, with less. Targeting specific market segments with your message appropriate to that audience is not necessarily new, it’s just more important now than it’s been in the past. Look at consumer behavior online; consumers are segmenting themselves by choosing what groups they belong to based on their choices,
not ones that advertisers are making for them. For example, moms on Facebook indicate how many kids they have, their religious beliefs, their favorite TV shows, books, food, and celebrities, just to name a few. Facebook in turn allows advertisers to market products and services directly to their users by targeting certain key words. Moms are part of the #1 user group on Facebook and they control 80% of household spending. What does it mean to be a family-friendly business? Since 2007 we’ve been conducting research about what’s important to parents when they take their kids out to eat. Although specifically designed for restaurants, many of these “hot buttons” are relatable to any product or service that has families as customers.
Providing Value Value is an important aspect to families, especially for moms. These days when mom is planning activities with or for her kids, whether it’s going out to eat, buying products, or planning a vacation, she’s diligently doing
her homework – electronically. She’s researching through key word searches, texting her friends, posting questions on Facebook, and surfing websites. She’s doing her homework because she wants to make the most educated decision she can; it has to be worth her time and money to buy that product or book that vacation. And when it comes to doing stuff with her kids that is fun, turning family experiences into memories, it’s even more important that she made the right decision and that in essence she got the most for her buck. Value is defined by more than price. It’s a good value to a mom if at the end of the day she got more than what she had even hoped for.
about what they liked about going out to eat with their parents. Over 30% replied, “Spending time with them.” Adults who are buying your product or service with their kids ‘in tow’ are having an experience, and it will be defined by the family-friendly service and value that you provide for them. Providing a memorable experience to families can and should ultimately end up with those families as a part of your marketing message. In today’s world of social media, word of mouth can be a viral form of marketing your organization and it can give new life to your business. Make the experience you provide a family such that
moms say “Wow!” and talk about it, to their families, on Facebook, on Twitter, and in their emails. Becoming a more family-friendly business is not about building a playground. It’s about providing an experience that offers value and great service and because you do, your customer says it is worth writing about. Moms indicate that they are willing to drive farther to a business that is family-friendly. Will they be driving to yours or past yours? For more information on how to make your business more family-friendly, contact The Restaurant Mom at (407) 442-9300 or Julie@TheRestaurantMom.com.
Providing Service Service is the most important theme for families, especially again, for mom. Since she controls 80% of the household spending, the service you provide her will determine whether or not she chooses you again. Four of the top 10 ‘hot buttons’ for moms are specifically service related: Common Sense Employees Employees are Nice to My Kids Overall Good Service Short or No Wait Times You can overcome almost any mistake you make with a family consumer if you provide great service. For example, imagine a restaurant that takes a long time to bring out the food. If the server is providing family-friendly service, offering crackers or fruit to young ones to stifle off the wait, or distracting them with conversation, as opposed to hiding out in the kitchen, the mom will be a lot more forgiving. Communicate with your customer instead of leaving them in the dark. Your employees that interact with them will have some of the best input for you on how to make your transactions more family-friendly and they will take more pride in doing so when it becomes part of your everyday business culture.
Providing the Experience For families, going out together is about the experience, not the functionality. What do I mean by that? In a recent nationwide study we asked kids
Choose the membership that supports your community’s well-being At the Y, we exist to strengthen community. Together with people like you, we nurture the potential of kids, help people understand and improve their health, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. So join our cause and create meaningful change not just for you, but also for your community.
Among our offerings: * * * *
After School Programs Health, Well-being and Fitness Swim, Sports and Play Volunteerism
YMCA OF WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA 3620 Cleveland Heights Blvd. 863.644.3528 www.ymcawcf.org
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smal l b u s i n e s s o f t h e month
John Locke John Locke Painting Inc.
5410 S Florida Ave, Ste 1 Lakeland, FL 33813 P. (863) 647-7000 F. (863) 644-9996 www.johnlockepainting.com
Located in an historic building on South Florida Avenue, John Locke Painting Inc. has been providing quality work and craftsmanship tailored to the needs of the residents of Lakeland for over 10 years. Customer satisfaction is a priority for the team at John Locke Painting because most of their business is repeat business through generations of customers and word of mouth. They go the distance to get the job done on the customer’s schedule, which includes working a lot
of nights, weekends and holidays. Usually they will complete a job in one day, particularly if the business cannot afford to shut down while they paint. They believe in focusing on the customer’s wants and needs rather than what they think the customer should have. They provide consistent bidding processes that don’t skip any steps because they sell a 10 year paint job! Not only does John Locke Painting believe in honorable and quality workmanship on every job, but owner John Locke is generous in his
views toward charitable organizations. John Locke Painting has been involved with many local organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, Salvation Army, March of Dimes, Florida Sheriffs Association, SPCA, local schools and churches, homeless shelters, Lakeland Police Department, Fraternal Order of Police, Youth Sports, Breast Cancer Foundation, Sheriffs Youth Ranch, VISTE, Shriners, FDLE, and the American Heart Association. They work about 300 jobs a year and donate
10 – 15 full jobs per year. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Lakeland & Mulberry recognized John Locke Painting’s service with the James Musso Sr. Award. Not only do they apply this charitable view to established groups and organizations, but also extend discounted rates to single mothers, Police, Fire and Safety personnel, veterans, retirees and teachers. In response to the challenging housing industry, they expanded their list of services to include pressure cleaning, cleaning and painting of cement floors, pool decks, stucco
B y: S h a ri Pro v a n ,
Small Business of the Month Committee Member Shari Provan (Douglass Screen Printers, Inc.) presents the July Small Business of the Month Award to Rick Gallagher (l) and John Locke (r), John Locke Painting Inc.
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and rotten wood repair and drywall repair. John Locke Painting Inc. is an outstanding example of a community minded, entrepreneurial small business. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate John Locke Painting Inc. as the Small Business of the Month for July.
For more information on some of the requirements for the Small Business Award and to view previous recipients, please visit LakelandChamber.com/ BusinessResource.
Douglass Screen Printers, Inc.
THE
MATTERS OF
W A N T T O K N O W W HY B E in g A M E M B E R O F TH E LA K E LA N D A R E A C HA M B E R I S S O B E C O M I N G ? R E AD on . . .
C AL E N D a R
E V E N T H I GHL I GHT S
NEW MEMBERS
R I B B O N C U TT I N G S
The next great idea could be yours! With just months to go before the opening of LEGOLAND Florida, Lakeland and Polk County are buzzing about the economic impact that the theme park has and will generate for years to come. As Lakeland has seen first-hand, tourism is a major generator for development. This summer’s inaugural DirectAir flight is evidence that the economic landscape of Polk County continues to grow and evolve. As major industries move to call Lakeland home, local entrepreneurs have a unique and exciting opportunity to support their growth. Whether it’s a certified babysitting service for tired parents, or a family-friendly restaurant, there are plenty of opportunities to develop businesses that welcome families, extend Lakeland and Polk County’s hospitality and broaden our economic diversity. If you or someone you know has ever considered starting a small business, the Chamber is a wonderful resource. Together with SCORE, the Chamber hosts a Roundtable each month dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs. This month, SCORE’s counselors and Chamber staff will be on hand to facilitate a discussion about cottage industries. To reserve your space at the discussion, please contact Terry Ottinger at (863) 688-8551, Ext. 231.
AUGUST
save the date
Topic: Engineering Cottage Industries August 25 | 7:30 A.M. | Lakeland Chamber BUilding
lakeland chamber
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August 2011 dates thur 11
Thursday, August 11 Plugging in & Giving Back EMERGE in the Community
tues 23
11:30 a.m. Community Southern Bank 3340 S Florida Ave
Tuesday, August 23 EMERGE Lakeland - Pep Rally
wed 17
Wednesday, August 17 Executive Committee Meeting
wed 24
Wednesday, August 24 Board of Directors Meeting
thur 25
Thursday August 25 SCORE Business Roundtable
5:30 -7:30 p.m. Beef O’Brady 4810 S Florida Ave
Thursday, August 11 Business & Breakfast 7:30 a.m. Valencia Hills Health & Rehabilitation Center 1350 Sleepy Hill Rd
mon 1
11:45 a.m.
Thursday, August 11 Leadership Lakeland XXIX Opening Reception
mon 2
5:30 p.m. Lakeland Yacht & Country Club 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive
thur 18
mon 22
mon 8
5:30 p.m. Beef O’ Brady’s Family Sports Pub/ Harbsmeier DeZayas, LLP 4810 S Florida Ave
4:00 p.m. Detroit Tigers @ Tampa Bay Rays See insert for details
monday 1 Small Business Award Committee Meeting 11:45 a.m.
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wed 10
Wednesday, August 10 Government Affairs
September 16 Small Business Healthcare Forum
8:00 a.m.
The Lakeland Center
thur 11
Thursday, August 11 Leadership Lakeland XXIX – Orientation
November 1-2 WE3: Workforce Education Conference
Plugging in & Giving Back - EMERGE in the Community 11:30 a.m.
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wednesday
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Major League Road Trip 4:00 p.m.
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EMERGE Lakeland Pep Rally 5:30 -7:30 p.m.
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Government Affairs 8:00 A.M.
17 Executive Committee Meeting | 4:00 p.m.
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The Lakeland Center
2:00 p.m. Lakeland Yacht and Country Club 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive
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BusinessVoice of Greater Lakeland 8:00 A.M.
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EMERGE Lakeland Steering Committee 3:45 p.m.
7:30 a.m. Chamber Briefing Room
Monday, August 8 EMERGE Lakeland Steering Committee 3:45 p.m.
tuesday 2
Tuesday, August 2 BusinessVoice of Greater Lakeland
12:00 P.M. Lakeland Yacht and Country Club 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive
8:00 A.M.
Thursday, August 18 Business After Hours
Monday, August 22 Major League Road Trip
Monday, August 1 Small Business Award Committee Meeting
4:00 p.m. Chamber Briefing Room
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24 Board of Directors Meeting | 12:00 P.M.
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Business & Breakfast 7:30 a.m. Leadership Lakeland XXIX – Orientation 2:00 p.m. Leadership Lakeland XXIX Opening Reception 5:30 p.m.
18 Business After Hours 5:30 P.M.
25 SCORE Business Roundtable | 7:30 a.m.
Even t H I G H L I G H T S business after hours
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01 | Community Bank of Florida
transformed the lobby to showcase Latin dancers and fabulous foods from around the globe!
02 | Chamber Chair Alice Hunt (Hunt Construction of Central Florida, Inc.) presents a plaque of appreciation to Sofia Belette of Community Bank of Florida.
BUSINESS & BREAKFAST 03 | Gregg W. Hooth of Vecchio, 02
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Carrier & Feldman PA was the featured speaker for June’s Business & Breakfast hosted by Estates at Carpenters.
04 | The Dining Room at the Estates
at Carpenters provided a beautiful place for members to network at the June Business & Breakfast–not to mention a delicious breakfast!
NEW MEMBER RECEPTION 05 | Kim Busse with New Member
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Reception Presenting Sponsor TD Bank shares her 30-second commercial as an example for new members.
06 | Stinson’s Home Design Center
provided a beautiful location for New Members to meet each other and learn more about the Chamber at the June New Member Reception.
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NEW M E M B E R S Accountemps
Liberty Mutual Insurance Company
Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Ralston Dantzler
Mark Brown Construction, Inc.
10117 Princess Palm Ave Ste 350 Tampa, FL 33610 (813) 623-6832 F: (813) 626-4932 Employment Services David Sandow accountemps.com
114 N Tennessee Ave, 3rd Floor Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 642-1528 F: (863) 687-1999 Real Estate-Commercial/Industrial Gary Ralston srdcommercial.com
Crescendo-Public Relations Turned Up 124 S Florida Ave, Ste 307 Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 698-2145 Public Relations & Publicity Cathy Hayes prturnedup.com
Electronic Merchant Systems 3030 Rocky Point Dr W Ste 755 Tampa, FL 33607 (813) 289-4100 F: (813) 289-4114 Credit Card Processing Gary Hancock emscorporate.com
Five-I Grounds Maintenance, Inc. PO Box 490 Kathleen, FL 33849 (863) 815-0907 F: (863) 816-5480 Lawn Maintenance Andrea & Rick Burton Five-IGroundsMaintenance.com
GPMS, Inc.
2302 E Edgewood Dr Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 877-9957 Janitorial Supplies Rick Albert gpmsinc.com
Graybarsoft International
10335 Cross Creek Blvd Tampa, FL 33647 (813) 766-8961 F: (813) 436-5220 Computers – Consulting & Custom Applications Brad Stainsby graybarsoft.com
Harburger/Scott Advertising and Public Relations
(863) 510-5085 Public Relations & Events Management Ian Campbell harburgerscottadvtg.com
Labor Ready, Inc.
615 E 1st St Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 686-1500 F: (863) 686-0707 Employment Contractors Michele Sharp laborready.com
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1493 Towne Center Dr, Ste D118 Lakeland, FL 33803-5968 (863) 644-7798 F: (863) 644-7918 Insurance Jose E. Martinez libertymutual.com
3221 S Florida Ave Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 646-0511 F: (863) 646-1565 Builders / Residential Mark D. Brown
MDT Personnel
2121 S Combee Rd Lakeland, FL 33801 (813) 394-6928 Employment Contractors Christie H. Mims mdtpersonnel.com
NorthStar Building Services 206 Easton Dr Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 577-6631 Roofing - Commercial Only Mark Toms nstarservice.com
Press 101
1601 Town Center Dr Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 937-9695 Restaurants Christopher Case press101.com
Save A Life Thrift Store 1923 S Combee Rd Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 665-3322 Thrift Shops Wendy Pegg savealifethrift.com
Each month, the Chamber enlists the help of 20 volunteers to mentor new and current members with involvement in Chamber events and programs. This month, the Chamber staff would like to recognize Dillon Daniels with AllSolar Service Company Inc. and Pool Works for his outstanding attention to Chamber members and attendance at events! Dillon is a wonderful asset to the Chamber and to the Lakeland community!
dillon daniels
allsolar service company inc. and pool works
Spoto’s Flowers & Gifts
3503 Cleveland Heights Blvd Lakeland, FL 33803-4907 (863) 688-9500 F: (863) 603-7776 Florists Jay Chang spotosflowers.net
Team Freedom
(863) 934-0710 Communication Systems Carlos Baez 5linx.net/19baez66
Carlene Wendel of Northwestern Mutual 4729 US Highway 98 S, Ste 201 (863) 683-2392 F: (863) 682-4795 Insurance Carlene Wendel
JUNE Tourism Inquiries During the month of June, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds of individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses and the Lakeland community. Walk-in Visitors........................................................... 339 Relocation Response Mailings.................................. 4 Relocation Response (Walk In)................................ 14 Accommodations........................................................... 1 Winter Accommodations............................................ 0 Visitor Information Mailings ................................. 13 Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries................................ 48
RIBBO N C U T T I N G S
Special thanks to Mayor Gow Fields, Commissioner Don Selvage, Commissioner Justin Troller, Commissioner Phillip Walker and all the Board Members and Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies special events.
Studio 323 Salon Lakeland, FL 33801 323 N Kentucky AVE | (863) 937-8064
Promise Pet Care, LLC
Universal Restoration Services of Florida
Lakeland, FL 33807
Lakeland, FL 33811
PO Box 7421 | (863) 450-4470
3810 Drane Field Rd, STE 3 | (877) 485-6699 www.4universal.com
Any Lab Test Now
Langford Insurance Group, Inc.
Lakeland, FL 33809
Lakeland, FL 33803
4226 US HIGHWAY 98 N | (863) 853-8100 www.anylabtestnow.com/lakeland
215 Imperial Blvd, Ste A-1 | (863) 644-7300 www.langfordinsurancegroup.com
Doggie Styles Mobile Grooming, LLC
Allstate Insurance Company/Julie Pierce
Lakeland, FL
Lakeland, FL 33809
(863) 535-5169 www.joelsdoggiestyles.com
6146 US Highway 98 N | (863) 859-1491 www.allstate.com/juliepierce
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Florida Southern College, where he majored in Financial Management with a minor in Economics. He is still active with the Florida Southern College ‘6th Man Club’ basketball organization, as well as the Sigma Chi Alumni Association of the Epsilon Sigma Chapter, where he served as President.
Institute of Spanish Communication, Inc.
Lanier Upshaw, Inc.
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Is proud to announce that Rick Mottern, Principal, was recognized by the Lakeland Family YMCA for his dedication and commitment to the Mission of the YMCA, and for his volunteer service and leadership. Rick has served as a member of the Lakeland Family YMCA Advisory Board for 3 years. Also, Lanier Upshaw, Inc. was recently honored with the 2011 Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award by Montgomery Insurance.
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Proudly welcomes Daniel Gilbert as General Manager. Dan has been a fixture in the Lakeland community for many years, and brings a great deal of experience with the Real Estate industry to the job.
Two Men & a Truck
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CPS Investment Advisors Pleased to welcome Nolen Bailey as Regional Director, Retirement Plan Services. Nolen comes to CPS after spending four years as District Manager of Sales for ADP, Automatic Data Processing, where he achieved many accolades including addition to the Leadership Council. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree from
20+
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years 1 9 5 2 | 5 9 Ye a rs BAGLEY Idea Pros
1 9 5 3 | 5 8 Ye a rs Allen & Company of Florida, Inc.
1 9 5 4 | 5 7 Ye a rs Bank of America/Lakeland Banking Center
1 9 5 9 | 5 2 Ye a rs The Ruthvens
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1 9 6 5 | 4 6 Ye a rs Belk #355
1 9 6 8 | 4 3 Ye a rs Williams-Hess Insurance
1 9 7 4 | 3 7 Ye a rs AA Electric S.E., Inc.
1 9 7 5 | 3 6 Ye a rs Crawford Law Group, P.A. Poor Richardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Print Shop ^O`b\S` W\ bVS U`SS\ W\WbWObWdS
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Watson Clinic LLP The Watson Clinic Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center has been awarded a full three-year accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC). This prestigious accreditation recognizes the high caliber of breast cancer evaluation and management services offered by the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center.
Bank of Central Florida Paul Noris, President and CEO, announced Randell Hollen has been promoted to Executive Vice President/ Senior Lending Officer. Mr. Hollen has been with the bank since opening in 2007. Also announced Chrissy Schaff and Scott Gardner have both joined the bank as Vice President/ Commercial Banking. Schaff was most recently Assistant Vice President, Small Business Relationship Manager with TD Bank. Gardner was most recently Vice President, Business and Personal Services with MidFlorida Credit Union.
M E M B E R R E N E WA L S
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Teresa Martinez was recently named president of the Hispanic Club of Lakeland, a non-profit organization that raises funds for scholarships and help to the Latino community. As president, Martinez is responsible for the Lakeland Hispanic Festival at Lake Mirror Promenade on October 22, 2011.
1 9 7 8 | 3 3 Ye a rs Dixie Signs, Inc.
1 9 7 9 | 3 2 Ye a rs MIDFLORIDA Credit Union
1 9 8 0 | 3 1 Ye a rs Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney and Lancaster, P.A.
1 9 8 1 | 3 0 Ye a rs Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club, Inc. Sunco Carriers, Inc.
1 9 8 4 | 2 7 Ye a rs Lakeside Pediatrics/Northside
1 9 8 5 | 2 6 Ye a rs Drummond Company, Inc.
1 9 8 6 | 2 5 Ye a rs Fun Bike Center Motorsports Vogel Bros. Building Co.
1 9 8 8 | 2 3 Ye a rs InnerAct Alliance formerly DPRC Lakeland Public Library
1 9 8 9 | 2 2 Ye a rs Albe Stamp & Engraving Saunders & Wilhelm
1 9 7 6 | 3 5 Ye a rs
1 9 9 1 | 2 0 Ye a rs
XYZ Liquor
Kenneth L. Mundy, D.D.S., P.A.
The Salvation Army Announces that Susan Hurlburt has been named Director of Development. Hurlburt has worked for the Lakeland agency for the past 22 years in administration and accounting. As The Salvation Army celebrates its 90th anniversary in the Lakeland community, future plans include relocating residential programs out of the downtown corridor to a new 49-acre campus. Hurlburtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new role will involve fund raising and community relations.
C oldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate, LLC Chad Kennedy recently joined Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate as a Licensed Real Estate Associate. He comes from a native Florida family and is an 8th generation Floridian. Chad specializes in land of all types; agriculture, recreational, hunting, ranches, groves, and vacant land. Along with listing and selling properties for clients, he is involved with GIS mapping, property 360 degree photography, and project coordination.
Sessums Law Group Mark Sessums has been invited by the Advisory Board of the Litigation Counsel of America to become a fellow in the Trial Lawyer Honorary Society. Fellowship in the LCA is highly selective and by invitation only. The LCA is composed of less than one-half of one percent of American lawyers.
The Lakeland Chamber prints business announcements each month as space permits. Please email announcements to motm@LakelandChamber.com
15
years Curry & Company Plumbing, Inc. Danjo of Central Florida, Inc. Diversified Sourcing Solutions
10
years Residence Inn by Marriott
5
years Balloons & Beyond Early Learning Coalition of Polk County North American Title Company Parker Street Ministries, Inc. Pilot Bank
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Public Policy – The Business of Visitors
Yadira Holmes
Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce Vice President, Public Affairs
Promoting effective tourism policy is essential to the mission and vision of Lakeland and to the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce. Florida currently ranks tourism as one of its most profitable economic engines. Florida is able to welcome diverse global visitors attracted to a wide range of activities such as our gleaming white beaches, beautiful state parks, theme parks for family, high-ranking sports teams, and ecological gems like the Everglades. According to VisitFlorida.org, in the first quarter of 2011 (January-March), Florida received 23.3 million visitors. In 2010, tourism resulted in an economic impact of $62.7 billion, and the tourism industry
F I NA N C I A L
P L A N N I N G
employed almost one million Floridians. Tourism’s economic impacts are an important consideration in economic development, in state, regional and community planning. Communities in Florida rely heavily on tourism’s contribution to economic activity in every industry. In understanding this impact, the community can better understand why it is necessary for a strong public participation to exist to further economic growth and development in the region. Florida is unique in how financial support is contributed to this high impact industry. Public dollars are heavily aligned with private dollars which translates into a greater impact .
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212 East Highland Drive | Lakeland, FL | 863.683.0708 | wallfoss.com
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to the entire State. Recently, federal dollars have provided the mechanism for which the Lakeland Linder Airport could begin commercial air service through DirectAir. With approximately $3.5 million in grant funding from the Federal Aviation Authority, Lakeland Linder was able to properly prepare for this service. Lakeland Linder has already witnessed a significant amount of activity since service began in June. The airport is projecting 44,000 passengers in a calendar year, with an estimated economic impact of $33.5 million, surpassing the initial grant funding provided through public funding. This public investment is a perfect example
of significant private investment to follow. At the state level, Florida has a unique model for tourism marketing. Visit Florida is not a government agency, but rather a notfor-profit corporation that carries out the work of the Florida Commission on Tourism, which was created as a public/private partnership by the Florida Legislature in 1996. The Commission, in partnership with the Governor’s office, took over the functions of what was then the Florida Department of Commerce, Division of Tourism. Visit Florida receives state funding in the form of a portion (15.75%) of the twodollar-per-day rental car surcharge. For every
$1 spent on tourism marketing, Visit Florida generates more than $147 in tourism spending and $9 in new sales tax collections, paid by visitors, not residents. In addition, agencies such as the Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Community Affairs have provided grant programs intended to match local government contribution in the development and acquisition of land for public outdoor recreational purposes. Lakeland’s Common Ground Park, which received private funding as well as public funding through these grant programs, is a prime example of the successful partnership
between public and private investment. Locally, Lakeland is quite proud of the significant tourism opportunities available in the area. Public dollars have provided the mechanism for its longstanding relationship with the Detroit Tigers, and continue to leave a legacy by solidifying the unique beauty of its collegiate campuses and providing beautiful parks and lakes for families to enjoy. The City of Lakeland, as well as Polk County, has made it a priority to promote all that our region has to offer. In return for their investments, they have witnessed a strong private commitment to these same initiatives. From a public policy perspective, it is
crucial to partner our businesses with federal, state and local leaders to address such destination needs as: infrastructure development, safety and security systems, regional development, economic stimulation, education/skills development and
marketing and promotion of the destination. We must work to ensure that publicly invested tourism dollars in this community are matched by a private commitment to not only support the opportunities but to also enhance their impact.
] If you would like to know more about becoming involved in the initiatives of the public policy division of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce, please call us at (863) 688-8551 Ext. 241.
NAP NATIONAL ACCREDITATION PROGRAM FOR BREAST CENTERS
Raising the Standard
in Breast Healthcare Just ask the experts.
Watson Clinic is working hard to detect, treat and eliminate breast cancer in this community. And now, the experts have taken notice. Watson Clinic Women’s Center was recently recognized by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC), an organization dedicated to the improvement of quality care for patients with breast disease. Offering a broad range of specialists, numerous educational programs and support groups, and guidance from nurse navigators through every step of the treatment process, the Women’s Center is proud to be one of an elite group of only 13 accredited centers in Florida. To schedule your yearly mammogram, please call 863-680-7755, option 3. You don’t have to be a Watson Clinic patient to schedule your mammogram at the Women’s Center.
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CONNECT ] TheMaguiresofLakeland.com
Build i n g t h e U s o n i a n H ouse – A Haven for Architecture
Michael Maguire The Maguires of Lakeland
“My daddy was the family bassman My mamma was an engineer...” Well, not exactly. It was my father who was the engineer – and civil, not railroad. But I often think of my youth when I hear these lyrics. Dad’s work included highways, bridges, tunnels, and some great buildings. We moved to where the projects were and we all learned to appreciate straight lines, solid foundations, and square corners. When we lived in
Baltimore, we often went to Sandy Beach for a swim and a picnic and a great view of the original Chesapeake Bay bridge – one of his. In Columbus, Ohio, we played amid the girders and beams of the emerging Port Columbus Airport. And in Tampa, where he was chief engineer for the new terminal project, I worked for a while interviewing airline passengers to catalog their needs for design considerations. A plaque on the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center
This will be the only one, and it will serve as a Tourism and Education Center, welcoming visitors to the campus and the largest collection of Wright’s buildings in the world. It also happens to sit in the South Lake Morton Historic District, making it a part of our neighborhood as well. I could probably hit a three-iron to it (a few years ago, maybe a seven). In fact, the site includes another
bears his name. I love buildings, and the building of them. And that is why we are visiting and photographing the site of Florida Southern College’s newest addition, a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed bungalow. He called it a Usonian house – a single-family home he created and built in response to his frustration with the typical American homes of his era – and planned several of them to serve as faculty housing.
bungalow, built in a more traditional style in 1925, and purchased by FSC in 2009. This home will be restored to provide rest and refreshment for the visitors. We are creating a chronicle of this historic event from the perspective of an oldfashioned “sidewalk superintendent”. We are not the engineers or architects, of course, we don’t have drawings, and we don’t always know what we we’re seeing until something else comes along to
FOLLOW THE PROGRESS OF THE USONIAN HOUSE PROJECT AT BuildingTheUsonianHouse.com.
Chamber Members Get The Family Discount
50
$
Instant Rebate
On A Set Of 4 Tires
Must present coupon to get this offer. Discounts are good for any brand, any tire, with full tire installation package and Road Hazard program. Redeem at participating McGee Auto Service and Tires. See Retailer for complete details. No other discounts apply. Offer ends 12/31/11.
At McGee Auto Service & Tire, you can tell we’re a family business. We’re committed to our customers, proud to be local. That’s why we’re offering these exclusive discounts to Chamber of Commerce members*. Come in, and see for yourself how we’ve earned a great reputation for customer satisfaction!
Oil Change
The McGee Family
17
$
95
CHAMBER SPECIAL!
Coupon Price Additional Charge For Disposal Fee
Must present coupon to get this offer. Most vehicles. No other discounts apply. Up to 5 quarts of oil. Canister filter, diesel, high-mileage, synthetic blend, full synthetic and 5W20 oil extra. Waste oil fee may apply in some areas. Additional charges for shop supplies, up to 7% or $25 maximum, may be added. Redeem at participating McGee Auto Service and Tires. See Retailer for complete details. Offer ends 12/31/11.
CENTRAL FLORIDA LOCATIONS: LAKELAND DUNDEE 3939 Highway 98 S 28919 Highway 27 863-439-8473 863-667-3347 5020 N. State Rd. 98 LAKE WALES 863-858-4477 203 Domaris Ave. 4304 South Florida Ave. 863-676-3423 863-646-8518
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MULBERRY 6867 N Church Ave. Hwy 37 863-644-7700 WINTER HAVEN 1803 3rd St. SW 863-401-8473
www.mcgeeautoservice.com for more information, great offers and other locations.
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CHAMBER SPECIAL!
CHAMBER SPECIAL!
Computerized 4-Wheel Alignment 98 Regular Price $89.95 $
44
Must present coupon to get this offer. Most vehicles. No other discounts apply. Additional charges for shop supplies, up to 7% or $25 maximum, may be added. Redeem at participating McGee Auto Service and Tires. See Retailer for complete details. Offer Ends 12/31/11.
From a recent Florida Southern College Press Release: The highly-anticipated tourism center is being constructed using plans for a Usonian house that Wright created as part of the campus master plan which was never built. Wright’s Usonian houses were intended to be distinctly American in style – Usonian is an acronym for United States of North America. The Sharp Family Tourism and Education Center at Florida Southern College will be the first Wright structure constructed for the original client on the original site since 1966. The College welcomes more than 30,000 visitors a year to tour the Frank Lloyd Wright buildings and anticipates that number will exceed 100,000 visitors by 2014. The Sharp Family Tourism and Education Center will provide a dedicated space for an introductory film on the history of Wright’s career and 20-year relationship with FSC, as well as a gift shop; a tourism kiosk with information on other Polk County attractions; exhibitions and conferences; and docent-led, audio, and self-guided tours. complete the picture. The two-layered footer system was a little unexpected for instance, but now that we can see that there will be a solid concrete slab attached, it’s easier to understand the support requirement. We have chatted with some of the workers who have been
part of the project so far and found that they too don’t always know the whole story. They come to dig or form or pour or clear or clean up like they might on any other job. It’s not so much an historic event as it is simply what they do. And watching it get done is greatly satisfying. And we’re really just
getting started. Having been dug and formed and poured and leveled the site is almost as smooth and featureless as it was right after the initial clearing. But the next stage will be vertical and the shape of things to come will be clearer. A “testing slab” on the site shows some of the possibilities.
Left to right Nancy LaFountain, Jennifer Vaughn, Chrissy Schaff, Randy Hollen, Larry Pitts, Scott Gardner
Who makes the decisions about your financing?
“We are fortunate to have these six professionals with more than 140 years of combined banking experience, over half of which have been right here in Polk County.”
Paul J. Noris – President and CEO
Does your bank shift your loan application to someone who doesn’t know you, or is unfamiliar with the local business climate? We were founded to serve professionals and owner-managed businesses. Our commercial banking officers understand the local marketplace and can respond to your individual needs in a way you won’t find anywhere else.
Member FDIC
www.bankofcentralflorida.com
Downtown Lakeland 101 S. Florida Avenue • 863-682-7100 South Lakeland 5015 S. Florida Avenue • 863-701-2685 Bartow 515 N. Broadway Avenue • 863-534-3585
COMMON
TA S T E
a of local business o n e c u p at a t i m e
The Common Grounds member feature gives your business the opportunity to showcase “a day in the life” of your employees and customers. Each month, one of the door prizes at the Business After Hours event will be a Common Grounds Lakeland Chamber coffee mug & the opportunity to submit a 350 word article about your local business.
B y Te d Hoffm a n Parent
I’d like to tell you a story about my son – I call it “a tale of two Teddys.” The first is the lost, 3-year-old boy who entered Achievement Academy kicking and screaming in 2006. Diagnosed with autism and an eating disorder, Teddy was almost impossible to control. His head and arms were darkened with bruises and contusions from slamming himself into walls, furniture, toys, floors, whatever was handy during his frustrated rages. His mother and I could not communicate with him most of the time. He was barely eating and barely sleeping. During that first week at Achievement Academy, we waited for what seemed the inevitable phone call: “COME TAKE THIS CHILD AWAY! We can’t handle him!” Instead, in Teddy’s first two years, Miss Stacey and Miss Jean stabilized his tantrums, got him to eat and talk, and opened the possibility of growth. In his third year, the sublime Miss Susan broke through. Day by day, under her kind, patient and inspired guidance, he left that lost, self-abusive, sad-angry, hopeless boy behind and… the second Teddy Hoffman emerged. He was more connective, cooperative and, blessedly, more HAPPY than we’d ever have thought possible. Miss Susan got him reading, spelling and doing basic math. She got him feeding himself. She got him playing, if not with other kids, at least tolerating their presence. She got him to go to the potty (sometimes!). She coaxed out the boy behind the autism. Teddy, now 8, is a lively, witty, handsome, very smart boy with a glint in his eye, a ready smile, a warm hug and real hope for the future. My wife and I love Achievement Academy and have utmost respect and affection for the effervescent staff. But what’s special is that Teddy loves it, too. Once lost, now he’s found. Achievement Academy gave us our son back. Achievement Academy’s mission is to assist children with special needs to reach their maximum potential by providing quality education, therapy and family support. To learn more about their work, visit AchievementAcademy.com. 22
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GO TIGERS!
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laminate product that gives you the warm aesthetic of wood. From casual to upscale styles you never imagined you could
afford, Canvas brings you countless color, pull, and profile options that inspire a multitude of different configurations. All so incredibly realistic, no one would guess it’s laminate.
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2440 Hwy. 98 North
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Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 3607 • Lakeland, FL 33802 - 3607
YOUR LOOK, YOUR CANVAS
BUSINESS
H URS
AFTER
August 18, 2011 5:30 - 7:30 P.m. 4810 S Florida ave Beef O’ Brady’s Family Sports Pub/Harbsmeier Dezayas, LLP
$10 Chamber Member ~ $30 Non Chamber Member
Your R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit BAH.Lakeland.Chamber.com to register.
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