July 2013 Forum for Business

L AKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMME R CE

F O R B U S IN E SS july 2013 | Vol. xXII, No. 7

The art of story telling for business

BUY LAKELAND. It Makes GOOD cents!

FORUM FOR BUSINESS Lakelandchamber.com

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CH A M BER 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 r a h bree d

Administrative Assistant, Member Relations | Public Affairs

sbreed@lakelandchamber.com

Kara Butch

Administrative Assistant, Membership Development | Communications

kbutch@LakelandChamber.com

S a l ly C h a p m a n

Vice President, Finance & Administration

SChapman@LakelandChamber.com

C a ro l y n J a c kson

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

K a t ie M c B ri d e Membership Consultant

KMcbride@lakelandchamber.com

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

Rich Roy

Vice President, Public Affairs

rroy@lakelandchamber.com

A story turned into a project with supporters in unlikely places. Turn to Page 8 to read more about how the story of Free Ride 863 inspired Chase Sellmeyer to share the power of storytelling for business.

P a t t y S mi t h

Administrative Assistant, Convention & Visitors Bureau

PSmith@LakelandChamber.com

L a ke l a n d Are a C h a mber of Commer c e F orum for B usiness M on t h l y M a rk E . W i l son | C h a irm a n of t h e B o a r d

Am y W i g g ins

Vice President, Communications

AWiggins@LakelandChamber.com

Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.

K a t h l een L . M unson | Pub l is h er Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce

35 Lake Morton Drive PO Box 3607 Lakeland, FL 33802-3607 (863) 688-8551 LakelandChamber.com

Am y S . W i g g ins | E d i t or Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce

ni c e br a n d in g a g en c y | Cre a t i v e Dire c t ion , P R O D U CT I O N & P h o t o g r a p h y www.brandnicely.com

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Š 2013 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.

R ec om m e nd e d R e a d i n g: Book Revie w From a Ch a m ber Peer

Melissa Nieves & Mike Bradley Valencia Hills Health & Rehabiliation Center

CONNECT ] ValenciaHillsHR.com

Today I am reviewing one of my favorite books about management and life. The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon will get you thinking about simple ways that you can make sweeping and lasting changes in your organization.

First let us establish a basic premise of the book that personal energy and attitude are hugely important to how successful you can be.

We all know that moods

are contagious. Have you ever stopped to look around when you are in a bad mood and noticed that other people start reflecting your same mood back at you, this just makes your mood worse and the cycle continues.

The same thing is true in the reverse, if you are in a good mood and approach challenges with an air of optimism and opportunity you will see that same attitude reflected in the people around you!

The book does an excellent job of walking the reader through scenarios where this plays out; highlighting how simply changing your attitude and approach can change the outcome of many situations.

This follows through to managing a team. Who

doesn’t like following a happy boss? I know in my own career I have always gotten better results from being a cheerleader rather than an energy vampire who drains everyone.

Given the challenges and adversity we face in business and life today, Jon provides a roadmap and defines how to navigate the negativity and pitfalls that too often sabotage individual and team success. Jon explains along the way how spirit, purpose, vision, and enthusiasm are all critical elements for individual and team success. I have personally had team members read this book and had meetings to bring each team member more positive approaches to navigate issues together.

I highly recommend this

book to assist you in helping build a positive team and culture where your employees overcome negativity and challenges to perform at their highest potential. Jon wrote this book as driving a bus and its passengers.

rule #4 Invite people on your bus and share your vision for the road ahead.

rule #5 Don’t waste your energy on those who don’t get on your bus.

rule #6 Post a sign that says NO ENERGY VAMPIRES ALLOWED on your bus.

rule #7 he lives by

rule #1 You’re the driver of your bus.

Enthusiasm attracts more passengers and energizes them during a ride.

rule #8

rule #2

Love your passengers.

Desire, vision, and focus move your bus in the right direction.

rule #9 Drive with purpose.

rule #3

rule #10

Fuel your ride with positive energy.

Have fun and enjoy the ride.

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LLAA C a r r i e s i t F o r wa r d lyonal lindsey leadership class 1

CONNECT ] LeadershipLakeland Alum.com

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Long ago and far away, I began my participation in the Leadership Lakeland program on its maiden voyage – Leadership Class 1. The initial “retreat” allowed us to learn about the accomplishments and affiliations of our classmates within the

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community. It occurred to me that this new experience was much like being dropped into a nest of hornets. Each participant had his or her own power and speed but, in a group, could exhibit exponential leverage if aimed at a common target or

roadblock in the path.

The true strength of the program is the access to those that could pick up the phone and make things happen.

These individuals tell us about the challenges that they faced and how the obstacles were overcome.

The anecdotes highlight

the importance of the contacts and spheres of influence that we all develop over time.

Input from others in the program can provide us with ideas and tools that we can use to be more effective in the future.

These tales of success make us aware of the different synergies that could be harnessed to “boost” the ability to make a positive difference in the quality of life for all of us. As an example, I recall that Barbara Carpenter learned that the Lakeland Police Department had acquired space within the old Washington Park Homes housing area in order to establish a friendly visibility within that community as well

as focus on the area youth. Barbara had many contacts among the teaching profession that were trying to find a way to help the students in that same area.

Using the Leadership Lakeland program as a springboard, she contacted Chief Baca (another Leadership Lakeland participant) and worked out a way to provide volunteer tutors at the facility maintained by the LPD. Something concrete came about because of verbal information that was carried forward. If we listen, really listen, we can use these stories to provide us with the keys we need to open the right doors – don’t waste the opportunity.

Bank of Central Florida

“My bank treats me like their most important client.”

Pranay C. Patel, MD, FACS Board-certified Otolaryngologist/Facial Plastic Surgeon

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amed one of America’s Top Physicians in Otolaryngology/ Facial Plastic Surgery, board-certified Dr. Pranay Patel offers a full complement of otolaryngology/facial plastic and reconstructive surgery services.

Jennifer Adams, Vice President/ Private Banking Officer and Paul Noris, President/CEO of Bank of Central Florida with Dr. Pranay Patel at Watson Clinic.

“We trust our finances to Bank of Central Florida,” says Dr. Patel. “My wife and I are treated like family – like the bank’s most important clients. We have access to the decision makers and we get quick responses to our requests.”

Get started with Mobile Banking today Downtown Lakeland 101 South Florida Avenue 863-682-7100 South Lakeland 5015 South Florida Avenue 863-701-2685 Bartow 515 North Broadway Avenue 863-534-3585

Member FDIC

www.bankofcentralflorida.com

HOW TO

A M O N T H LY

chris wendel holden publishing CONNECT ] CWendel.com

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Your company’s story is not the chronological story of when you started your company or other typical time line informational truths. A company’s story is more than that.

It’s the essence of what your company is about.

Are you a construction company, or do you build people’s dream

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homes? Does your IT Company manage a business’s network, or does it protect people’s families and livelihoods?

Maybe you’re lucky and know it, but most people don’t know their company story.

They can tell someone about their company but can’t tell the story

of why it exists. As a novelist, I can assure you that finding your story is fun! You get to explore yourself, to learn something about who you’ve been and who you are and who you want to become, and to find a reason to get up every morning and passionately go out into the world. I

promise you that YOU are the most interesting character of all. Find your story and let it drive you.

Unsure of your story?

Governed by task lists and appointments on our calendars, many of us don’t spend much time thinking about why we do things.

We just meet the demands our respective worlds place upon us. However, those around us perceive our motivations when we act, so their insight is valuable information.

Use it wisely. Ask ten of your clients to write testimonials about your business, services, personal character, and professionalism.

Find the common thread throughout the testimonials and examine those few ideas. Next, ask your employees to write down three to five adjectives describing the company. These, too, will most likely be the ideas that will shape your company story.

Another very common way to craft your company story is to literally tell a story. This should be a true tale of how your company performed a function. If your construction company

only builds people’s dream houses, then tell the story of the lengths your company went to build someone’s perfect dream house. If your IT company wants to take IT solutions worldwide for your clients, then your story can tell of a time when you helped a client run his/her business from an island off the coast of France.

Neither of these stories is specifically about your company; however, the tales illustrate what your company is about and why your company is there.

Personally, I’ve found my company’s story in this phrase: Be Human. In my novels, blogs, and business books, I focus on the human experience and our needed authentic connectedness in life and even in business. I focus on that because I want to understand that more fully in myself and the people around me. So much is written about being in a rut and getting lost in the rat race … Find yourself !

Discover (or re-discover) the personal parts of yourself that make your mind soar, your blood flow, and your soul shine; these will help develop and shape your company story.

EMERG E L ak e l a n d Vo l u n t eer Project

Jessica Gutowski Slaydon Baylis & Company PA CPA’s

CONNECT ] EMERGELakeland.com

EMERGE partnered with the kindergarten classes at Rochelle Elementary School and the Lakeland Urban Garden Project to plant four gardens this past April.

“This project was a positive way to promote healthy eating for the next generation,” said Colleen Mangan, EMERGE Volunteer Committee Chair. “And a great way to give local professionals a way to give back to the community together.”

Numerous Lakeland

businesses donated items to help ensure the garden beds are filled with fresh soil and produce. Also, every kindergartener received a tomato plant seedling and a healthy food choices coloring book.

“The seedlings are a great starter plant for a child or family to begin their own garden,” said Everett Taylor of the Lakeland Urban Gardening Project.

“A garden project is a great way to instill in children, not just a love for gardening,

but an understanding of what healthy food choices are and to learn their potential to grow their own fruits and vegetables.”

On a follow up visit, many of the children have already had the opportunity to enjoy some of the fresh produce they helped grow.

“It’s exciting to hear the students discuss which veggies they liked best,” said Mangan.

Businesses and organizations that donated include: Alphagraphics, Burton’s Lawn Care, Kathleen High School Academy of Natural Resources, Lowes, Students Working Against Tobacco and Sunshine Growers.

For more information, about EMERGE Lakeland’s volunteer projects please visit www.

Thursday, July 11 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

emergelakeland.com EMERGE Lakeland is a networking organization of

The Terrace Hotel 329 E Main St

young professionals ranging in age from 21-42. The organization

$25 Members Only Limited Seating

is a partnership of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce and the United Way of Central Florida.

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chase sellmeyer kanga marketing

Starting off the New Year I was working in the Florida Keys shooting a commercial for a clothing line out of New York City. The theme of the shoot was to tell the story of an outdoor adventure lifestyle and the elements that inspired the line.

On the first day of the shoot we found ourselves on a desolate white sand beach 30 miles offshore where we were setting up to film the kiteboarding segment of the commercial.

During my set up, a rider/model named Diego, noticed a black silicone bracelet on my right wrist which reads “FreeRide 836 Ride Live Give.”

Immediately he rolled up the sleeves on his sweatshirt to reveal an arm with a half dozen or so FreeRide836 bands. Without hesitation, Diego began a story, telling me about this man who was riding at his local kiteboarding beach a few weeks back.

“This man and his three young sons are going to kiteboard 50-some miles from Miami to the Florida Keys. They hope to raise $50,000 dollars for an orphanage in Africa.”

“Are you kidding me? That is a far way to ride on a kite!” I responded.

Diego went on, “I know! I heard there are a lot of pro-riders that are riding as well. Insane!”

He then passed me a black band off his wrist, an unspoken encouragement 8

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to pass the story on. Slightly embarrassed, I politely handed it back and said, “Thank you Diego, but I have plenty of bands. The man who was at your beach is Mark Russell and he is my partner and founder of FreeRide836. Nice to meet you and thank you so much for your support!”

As you can imagine his jaw dropped, and the synergy formed on the shoot has translated into a kiteboarding friendship ever since.

Quick update: May 26, 2013 Mark, his three young boys, Diego, 15 other proriders and myself kiteboarded the 68 miles to raise more than $54,000 and are breaking ground on the new orphanage this month. You can check out the entire story behind our fundraiser at FreeRide836.com This meaningful story is a great example of how one interaction can impact an individual’s outlook on a company’s vision and goals. Diego became one of our biggest fans virtually overnight. He stated how he loved the idea from the get go as he came from Colombia, a place ridden with poverty and orphans. His personal experience was enough for him to tell our story to everyone he meets, and give them a FreeRide836 wristband. He also made an amazing wakeboarding video, on his own accord, showing him wearing our black FreeRide836 wristbands. This video made “GoPro Video of The Day” a week later, reaching thousands of additional online visitors in one powerful swoop. Don’t you wish you had a million Diego’s?

The Beginning. Tell how or why your company was started.

Communicate and declare its grand purpose. Understand why you were brought to do this. Perhaps you started the company to provide greater service or to fix a problem. Maybe it was a life changing experience that put you where you are today. Just start at the beginning.

Forgo some Self-acknowledgement. You don’t have to always talk about your self or accept responsibility. Showcase your great team and the people involved. What makes your group so special? Do you all share a common experience or philosophy?

These types of highlights can help attract like-minded customers, investors and partners.

“Stories resonate more than facts,” says Blake Mycoskie, founder of TOMS

Be Proud! Tell your story as often as you can to new people. In line at the store, at a networking event, or when sitting next to a stranger on the airplane. Be passionate and honest about your vision. Most people can spot a fake a mile away.

shoes. He says that, “the power of your story isn’t just a way to connect to your ultimate consumer but is also a means of making you attractive to potential partners who want to attach themselves to something deeper than buying and selling.”

Think of your story as the special ‘bait’ that can not only accurately define your business, but

Find the Special Sauce. It is important to demonstrate uniqueness. Communicate what sets you apart from the billions of others out there.

BIG Picture. Declare your mission and philosophy regularly and often. Everyone would rather do business with likeminded people. People whose beliefs and actions coincide with their own.

Your sales pitch is reduced to just a price when you lack a clear mission and philosophy for your business.

Work the Core. Clearly define your core objectives and demand no less then perfect results from your efforts.

Be Precise. When telling your story, do not leave out paramount details. Be descriptive and energetic, let the imaginations of the people hearing your story run wild.

Look Ahead. Share your vision for the future. Where you see the company or organization going. How you hope to see it grow and give back. People want to be inspired, always leave them wanting more.

also capture the hearts and minds of potentially likeminded partners in the mix.

As you learned in grade school, a good story involves a beginning, middle and end. Your company’s story is no different. Your story should be easy for your audience to understand to establish that connection. While you are developing your story make sure to get feedback from multiple sources; fine-tune it to be “short-n-sweet.” Tell it in different ways, practice with your spouse, friends, and complete strangers to make sure that your message resonates across multiple audiences. Push your fans to like your Facebook page, visit your Web site and interact through other online social networks.

Distribute your story along multiple mediums online, in print, on your Web site, and within your mobile app. Consider breathing some life into your story with the use of breath taking videos or a stunning interactive virtual tour giving the viewer a digital, yet almost tangible experience.

Storytelling is one of our oldest traditions as human beings and something we have been doing in Kanga Marketing since the beginning. However, the ways in which we tell our stories are forever changing. Keep an open and honest mind and your story can become the best that was ever told.

To your success, Chase.

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smal l b u s i n e s s o f th e mon t h

Cipher Integrations, Inc. Todd Baylis (863) 686-0110 53 Lake Morton Dr, Ste 110 Lakeland, FL 33801

CONNECT ] ZeroWorries.com

The June recipient of the Lakeland Chamber’s Small Business Award is Cipher Integrations, Inc., founded by President, Todd Baylis.

He considered Lakeland the perfect incubator for his start up company, created while he was attending Florida State University. The incubator experience taught him that his original plan to offer document imaging and email encryption services for companies was not viable for the long term needs of the business community.

With ever-changing technology, his company would have to do much more.

Today, Cipher Integrations, Inc. provides personalized network services, internet technology, and software development for companies ranging from small businesses to those with advanced infrastructure needs. The company’s registered trademark is One Call.

One Company. Zero Worries. They want to help businesses focus on what really matters to them.

Cipher offers complete local and wide-area network design, installation and management services, including documentation

of entire network systems for increased security and reduced downtime. They help their clients with slow running systems, proper backup procedures, and system security.

For Internet technology services, Cipher works to enhance online presence and provide their clients with secure access to internal network, Web based applications, and custom software solutions.

Using technology management and hosting from Cipher, businesses can improve

productivity and fix problems remotely.

The company strives to provide both technical and businessknowledgeable professionals with a friendly attitude towards its clients.

Baylis believes some competitors’ technology experts cannot focus on the business needs of their customers – they can only see the tech side of the problem.

Todd has also been actively involved in the Lakeland community and encourages his staff to get involved as well. His community

B y Terri A . Go l eno ,

Small Business of the Month committee member Terri A. Goleno presents the June Small Business of the Month Award to Todd Baylis. Also pictured: Don Kane, Peter Rudden, Nick Pelfort, and Kyle Villareal.

Scan here with your smart phone app for a short video about Cipher Integration, Inc.

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work includes EMERGE Lakeland, recruiting young professionals for Lakeland’s business community, and serving as an officer.

Cipher is a member of the Lakeland Economic Development Council, and Todd served a 3-year term on the Lakeland Chamber Board. He has also served on the boards of the Imperial Symphony Orchestra, Habitat for Humanity, and Campfire USA – serving as President of that board.

Congratulations to our June Small Business Award winner – Cipher Integrations, Inc.

Cheatham, Goleno & Ferguson, P.A.

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 CHA M B E R I S S O B E C O M I N G ? R E AD on . . .

CAL E N D a R

E V E N T H I GHL I GHT S

CHAIRMAN’S MID-YEAR REPORT It’s been a great six months serving as your chairman. I’ve enjoyed meeting many of you at the Chamber events we’ve hosted, and learning more about the many value-added programs and services we offer to our members.

NEW MEMBERS

R I B B O N C U TT I N G S

] LakelandChamber.com continues to grow its audience for you?

The Chamber’s award-winning Web site has seen a 15% year over year increase in unique visitors, and we have some surprises on the horizon…be sure to stay tuned for more on how LakelandChamber.com is improving for your business!

] The Small Business Awards program has been a Chamber

tradition since 1986, celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit and success of 300 small businesses in our community over the past 26 years?

] Leadership Lakeland just graduated Class 30, bringing the total

number of graduates of this tremendous leadership training program to 839?

] EMERGE Lakeland, a dynamic program for Lakeland’s young

professionals, has more than 170 members and provides numerous business, social, and philanthropic opportunities to get connected?

] The Chamber’s Convention & Visitors Bureau operates a Visitor

that... ] Your Chamber represents more than 1,700 businesses, making it the second largest chamber of commerce in the Tampa Bay region?

] Of those 1,700 member businesses, 1,377 have fewer than 25 employees?

] With the active participation of our Mayor, City Commissioners and Board of Directors, the Chamber hosted a record 82 ribbon cuttings in 2012 to celebrate new member business grand openings and expansions? We’re already on track to beat that record with 40 ribbon cuttings so far this year!

Information Center in the lobby of the Chamber, with hundreds of brochures and information on fun recreational, cultural, and attractions activities to enjoy in Lakeland and throughout Central Florida? Stop by and discover new points of interest and activities to enjoy this summer with the family!

] These are just a few of the many reasons your Chamber is ranked

one of the top chambers in the country. I encourage you continue to take advantage of all that’s being offered to grow your business and our Lakeland community. Check out the Chamber Web site for a full menu of programs and events to get involved in.

I would welcome your comments and suggestions on how we can continue to provide cutting-edge programs and services, and look forward to seeing you at an upcoming Chamber event.

Best regards,

] The Lakeland Chamber was recently ranked in the “Top 100 Most Social Media Friendly Chambers in the Nation”? Members use our social media channels to support fellow members, and that support shows in this recognition. With more than 1,800 likes on Facebook and more than 3,000 followers on Twitter, the Chamber connects our business community – even in the digital world!

Mark E. Wilson, Chairman of the Board FORUM FOR BUSINESS

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july 2013 dates MON 08 wed 10 thur 25

Monday, July 8 EMERGE Lakeland Steering Committee

3:45 p.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

Wednesday, July 10 Talent Development Committee Meeting 3:30 p.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

Thursday, July 25 SCORE Business Round Table

7:30 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

tues 09 thur 11

thur 18

Tuesday, July 9 Chamber Next

5:30 p.m.

BB&T 114 N Kentucky Ave

Thursday, July 11 Schmooze a’Palooza

11:30 a.m.

The Terrace Hotel 329 E Main St

During the month of May our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds of individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses and the Lakeland community.

Thursday, July 18 Business After Hours

5:30 p.m.

The Club at Eaglebrooke 1300 Eaglebrooke Blvd

Walk-in Visitors...................................... 327 Relocation Response Mailings............. 2 Relocation Response (Walk In)............. 7 Accommodations..................................... 1 Winter Accommodations....................... 0 Visitor Information Mailings............. 12 Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries........... 68

Chamber Closed: thursday, July 4, in observance of independence day

monday 1

tuesday 2

wednesday 3

thursday 4

friday

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sun

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chamber closed

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EMERGE Lakeland Steering Committee 3:45 p.m.

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chamber next | 5:30 p.m.

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10 talent development committee meeting 3:30 p.m.

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11 schmooze a’palooza 11:30 a.m.

18 business after hours 5:30 p.m.

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25 score business round table | 7:30 a.m.

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Ev ent HIG HL IG H TS 01

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May Business After Hours Hosted by Certified Foundations

01 | Chairman of the Board

Mark Wilson (Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.) presents the Plaque of Appreciation to new President Jim Collier of Certified Foundations, Inc.

02 | Bob Ettenson of The Ettensohn

Agency/AllState, Niza Maul of Madrid Engineering, and Andy Burton of Burton’s Lawn & Landscape enjoy the fun atmosphere honoring American Veterans!

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03 | A huge crowd gathered to

commemorate veterans past and present while enjoying each other’s company and the delicious food provided by La Porta Rossa!

04 | Mike Mason of the Polk County

Board of County Commissioners Veterans Services presented Jim Collier of Certified Foundations, Inc. with a Military Order of the Purple Heart Certificate of Appreciation.

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May Schmooze a’Palooza 04

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Hosted by Cleveland Heights Golf Course

05 | Aileen Figueroa of Woman to

Woman Magazine gives her 30 second commercial about her business and content/advertising opportunities!

06 | Power networking was in full swing

after lunch—a huge thank you to Food & Beverage Manager Thom Grenkowski and the entire team at Cleveland Heights Golf Course for hosting this great event!

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Conservation Area. This land encompasses about one million acres north of Lake Okeechobee in the Kissimmee River Basin, with 150,000 acres in particular in Polk, Highlands, Orange, Osceola and Okeechobee counties to be selected because of its value for wildlife and water conservation.

The Loft Art Gallery Dennis Hart joined The Loft Art Gallery’s artistin-residence program in April. The Loft is located upstairs from Paint Along Studios, 123 S. Kentucky Ave. Also the Face of Lakeland exhibit by The Loft’s first artist-in-residence, Aaron Corbitt, is now on display at the corporate offices of the Citrus Connection.

Paint Along Studios

chairman ’s circle CPS Investment Advisors Chas P. Smith, CPA/PFS, President, was the keynote speaker at the 11th Annual Stock Market Update & Economic Forecast seminar recently held at The Lakeland Yacht & Country Club. CPS Investment Advisors offers financial planning services to our community.

trustees florida southern college Dr. Malcolm Manners, John and Ruth Tyndall Professor of Citrus Science at Florida Southern College, has received his third President’s Volunteer Service Award for his work with flower growers in Bangladesh. Dr. Manners worked as a volunteer technical training expert in Jessore, Bangladesh, in August 2012 on a project to train growers of cut-flower roses, tuberoses, and marigolds on production methods, as well as methods of harvesting, packing, storage, and shipping to market.

Danielle Fence Mfg. Co. Proudly announces that Alan Salvo has joined the Danielle Team as Sales Manager of our Outdoor Living Business Unit. Alan is a certified landscape and hardscape technician & designer and specializes in 3-D design illustration of complete backyards and outdoor kitchens. These capabilities will allow our customers to design their ideas in full color 3-D prior to purchase and construction.

Alan will work out of our Design Center located in Mulberry.

Land South Group Leigh Ann Lightsey Wynn recently travelled to Washington DC with the Northern Everglades Alliance to advocate for funds to be appropriated for the Northern Everglades National Wildlife Refuge & 14

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David Collins, owner of Paint Along Studios and The Loft Art Gallery, has opened a new space upstairs called The Garret. This will be a working artist’s studio where visitors can see completed artwork on exhibit, but also see artists at work.

C oldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate Richard Dempsey, ALC, sales associate, has been inducted into the statewide Florida Realtors® Honor Society. Dempsey received the Honor Society pin at the 90th anniversary celebration of the Lakeland Association of Realtors® (LAR) at the Eaglebrooke event in Lakeland.

Tri-County Human Services, Inc. Valeria Jorn has been elected as corresponding secretary of The Women’s Republican Club of Lakeland AND Secretary of the Republican Club of Lakeland.

H arrison Center for Visual & Performing Arts Has been designated a 2013-2015 Exemplary School by Arts Schools Network, the nation’s largest professional membership organization of specialized arts schools. Created to highlight a school’s commitment to excellence, this designation is presented to an Arts Schools Network member school in recognition of its efforts to evaluate strategically its purpose, operations, and educational programs. This honor signifies that Harrison has successfully completed a self evaluation in the following areas: strengths, areas for improvement, consistency with school-wide or program purposes, aspirations, and future challenges.

The Lakeland Chamber prints business announcements each month as space permits. Please e-mail announcements to motm@lakelandchamber.com

SUN ‘n FUN Is a finalist for “2012 Best Event Production of the Year” for the Occasions Magazine party at Florida Air Museum and Hangar A, planned by Ashly Olivier of Olivier Events and Aymee Brace, CPCE, the Event and Facility Sales Manager at SUN ‘n FUN. Aymee Brace is also a finalist for the “2012 George Zell Spirit of NACE” award. Both are national awards given by the National Association of Catering Executives. The awards ceremony will be held in Chicago, IL in July of this year.

Hill Ward Henderson Honored at the Pro Bono Service Awards Ceremony

by The Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee and Bay Area Legal Services Volunteer Lawyers Program. The firm was the 2013 recipient of the Have a Heart, Outstanding Pro Bono Service Award by a Law Firm. The Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Service Awards are presented annually to an organization, law firm, young lawyer, and lawyer for outstanding pro bono services to individuals with economic hardships and to charitable organizations whose primary purpose is to provide legal assistance to the underserved

JSK Consulting Josh Golden has recently joined the firm as a Project Engineer. Josh graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He has experience in design, permitting, and construction administration.

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 Jennifer Hatfield, Commercial Sales Professional at Terminix Commercial Division, for her outstanding attention to Chamber members and attendance at events! Jennifer is a wonderful asset to the Chamber and to the Lakeland community!

jennifer hatfield terminix commercial division Commercial Sales Professional

MEMB E R R E N E WA L S 20+

years 1 9 2 1 | 9 2 Ye a rs Pickard & Pickard Inc. REALTORS

1 9 4 9 | 6 4 Ye a rs

1 9 9 0 | 2 3 Ye a rs QMI

1 9 9 1 | 2 2 Ye a rs Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub Lakeland Christian School, Inc.

1 9 9 2 | 2 1 Ye a rs Gunder’s Auto Center, Inc.

Florida Southern College

Scott H. Langston, Attorney at Law

1 9 5 2 | 6 1 Ye a rs

DBA Wilson Electric Company

E. Harold Wilson, Inc. BAGLEY Idea Pros

1 9 6 3 | 5 0 Ye a rs

1 9 9 3 | 2 0 Ye a rs

1 9 6 8 | 4 5 Ye a rs 1 9 7 3 | 4 0 Ye a rs Peppertree Village Apartments

1 9 7 4 | 3 9 Ye a rs AA Electric S.E., Inc.

15

years Central Sheet Metal & Steel, Inc. The Colinas Group, Inc. Downtown Lakeland Partnership, Inc. Emeritus at Oakbridge

1 9 7 6 | 3 7 Ye a rs

Keymark Corporation of Florida

Peninsular Exterminating Co.

Magnify Credit Union/Mulberry

1 9 7 8 | 3 5 Ye a rs America’s Mattress by Sleep Center

1 9 7 9 | 3 4 Ye a rs MIDFLORIDA Credit Union

1 9 8 0 | 3 3 Ye a rs Wallis Murphey Boyington Architects, Inc.

NEXT Join the discussion to learn how you can maximize your investment in the Chamber.

Blackmon Roberts Group, Inc.

Regal Chevrolet, GMC, Honda, Acura, Kia

Williams-Hess Insurance

CHAMBER

10

years Buckner Commercial Properties ESCO Industries, Inc.

1 9 8 1 | 3 2 Ye a rs

IDIN Oriental Rug, inc

Central Florida Speech & Hearing Center

Robert T. Newsome Insurance Agency, LLC

What Does Advocacy Really Mean for Your Business?

Your Chamber membership gives you opportunity - to see and be seen, to speak and be heard, and to engage and be connected.

One of the most valuable resources the Chamber provides is a dedicated Public Affairs division.

By joining with 1,700 other businesses, the voice of your small business is magnified.

This Chamber NEXT welcomes Rich Roy, Vice President of Public Affairs, to share more about how his work directly and indirectly affects your day-to-day business.

1 9 8 2 | 3 1 Ye a rs Lakeland Automall - Ford & Hyundai

1 9 8 5 | 2 8 Ye a rs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

1 9 8 6 | 2 7 Ye a rs Sylvan Learning Center

5

years

Tuesday, July 9 | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

BB&T Downtown Lakeland 114 N Tennessee Avenue

Ciao Bella Tampa Bay Rays

1 9 8 8 | 2 5 Ye a rs Munchel’s Fine Jewelry, Inc.

1 9 8 9 | 2 4 Ye a rs Brooke Pottery

No Charge for Members Seating is Limited, Please RSVP at LakelandChamber.com

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Albert Griffin Bridal

Exotic Car Services

McLanahan

Arts Ensemble Education Foundation

Home Contracting Services

PEAK Worship

517 N Massachusetts Ave Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 808-3101 exoticcarservicesinc.com Mark Barkett Automobile – Washing & Polishing

2302-A E Edgewood Dr Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 940-9932 albertgriffin.com Lena Baker Albert Bridal Wear

1000 American Superior Blvd Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 293-2700 artsensemblehealingarts.com Jane Waters Thomas Art Galleries

Brand Aid

Call To Schedule An Appointment (863) 557-7953 abrandaid.com Chris Florence Marketing/Advertising

Bravo Super Market 2435 US Highway 98 N Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 687-4769 Joel Collado Grocery Stores

Call To Schedule An Appointment (863) 709-7120 Damien Thurston Contractors

Mary Nelle James, D.C.

737 S Missouri Ave Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 680-1064 cheatwoodchiropractic.com Mary Nelle James D.C. Health Care – Physicians - Chiropractic

JMT Travel

Call To Schedule An Appointment (863) 670-0873 JMTTravel.com Steve Brown Travel Agencies

6550 New Tampa Hwy Lakeland, FL 33815 (863) 667-2090 mclanahan.com Kirk Sawall Manufacturers

410 W Robson St Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 226-3972 PEAKWorship.com Dorcas Rodriguez Churches/Synagogues

Polo International, Inc

150 S Andrews Ave, Ste 320 Pompano Beach, FL 33069 (954) 782-5851 Polo14.com Rico Petrocelli Roofing – Commercial only

Rodman Development Inc.

1034 Martin Luther King Jr Ave Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 682-4193 Joe Rodman General Contractors

Saint Leo University Lakeland Education Center 1044 Griffin Rd Lakeland, FL 33805 (352) 588-8480 saintleo.edu Beth Carter Ed.D. Schools – Colleges/Universities

Lakeland Area Chamber Foundation

seeking grant applications The Lakeland Area Chamber Foundation is one of the greatest assets this Chamber has in serving the diverse needs of our community. Founded in 1973 as a 501(c) (3) not-for-profit organization, the Foundation serves to support worthwhile community and education betterment initiatives. Through the generous contributions of member businesses and individuals, the Foundation is able to award small grants to not-for-profit organizations in the Lakeland area to support specific community and education betterment projects. The grant awards will be issued for the 2014 calendar year.

Organizations must meet the following criteria to be eligible for grant awards: A. Program to be funded must fall under the following LACF major areas of emphasis: Education and Community Betterment.

B. Applicants are required to hold 501(c)(3) status in order to qualify for funding.

C. Funds must be used to benefit the Greater Lakeland area.

D. F unds are restricted to operational use to support specific programs and cannot be used to fund Capital Projects (e.g., bricks and mortar), Permanent Personnel Costs (e.g., wages, benefits), or any other recurring Overhead Costs.

If you are aware of community not-for-profit organizations that meet these grant guidelines, please have them contact Barbara Bennett at the Chamber via email bbennett@ lakelandchamber.com or telephone: (863) 688-8551, Ext. 233, for further information on the grant program and how to apply.

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Scott Schaffer

Call to Schedule an Appointment (863) 272-5993 Scott Schaffer Individuals

Seed Sowers Evangelistic Association 1745 W Olive St Lakeland, FL 33815 (863) 688-3200 TheSeedSowers.org Richard Bender Food Bank

Sparkle Zone LLC (Sparkle Skirts) 2500 Drane Field Rd, Ste 110 Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 409-2492 sparkleskirts.com Leah Powell Retail

Stagecoach Charter

2814 E Main St Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 687-4573 stagecoachcharter.com Frank & Debbie Gifford III Buses – Charter, Tours & Sightseeing

Yesenia Rubio

Call to Schedule an Appointment (954) 534-6911 Yesenia Rubio Individuals

Special thanks to Mayor Gow Fields, Commissioner Don Selvage, Commissioner Justin Troller, Commissioner Phillip Walker, Commissioner Howard Wiggs, Commissioner Edie Yates and all the Board Members and Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies special events.

1026 SOFLO Fine Art Gallery

1st Class Tile & Grout Restoration

Lakeland, FL 33801 1026 S Florida Ave, Ste 8 | (863) 409-7901 MaryMayWitte.com

Call to Schedule an Appointment (863) 397-4671 1stClassTileandGrout.com

Certified Foundations

Courtney Paat – State Farm Agent

Natural Resources Herb & Vitamin Shoppe

Lakeland, FL 33810

Lakeland, FL 33809

Lakeland, FL 33811

1306 Banana Rd | (863) 859-3889 CFI-1.com

5228 US Highway 98 N | (863) 858-4878 CourtneyPaat.com

5040 Lunn Rd | (863) 817-6022

Peace River Center

Ric’s Wine Market

Terminix Commercial

Lakeland, FL 33805

Lakeland, FL 33813

Tampa, FL 33610

1831 N Gilmore Ave | (863) 519-0575 PeaceRiverCenter.org

4110 S Florida Ave | (863) 644-8181 RicsWine.com

4312 N 56th St | (813) 415-1252 Terminix.com

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Nominations Sought for The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce is fortunate to be led by an elected 37-member board of directors and five ex-officio members. These dedicated volunteer leaders direct the governance of the Chamber and represent the interests of our 1,700 members.

In July, a nominating committee headed by Chair-elect Tim Jackson (NuJak Companies) will convene to nominate 12 new directors to serve a three-year term on the Chamber’s board of directors, effective January 1, 2014.

Active Chamber members in good standing are invited to submit their names or the names of others members who meet the qualifications of nomination. Nominations will be submitted to the 2014 Officers and Directors Nominating Committee.

Names of proposed board candidates should be submitted no later than monday, july 15, 2013 to Kathleen Munson, President Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 3607, Lakeland, FL 33802-3607

by Fax: (863) 683-7454 || by email: kmunson@LakelandChamber.com.

Questions regarding the nomination process may be directed to Kathleen at (863) 688-8551, Ext. 234 or to the above email address.

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t e c h c or ner L et Y o u r

C ome T h rou g h to

chris florence a brand aid

CONNECT ] ABrandAid.com

wit h C u s t omers My business advice when it comes to personality marketing is to just let it come out. At the end of the day, people do business with people. That is why social marketing has taken off and has become a vital part of the marketing process.

Sometimes, the dayto-day “business” can seem boring, and it definitely doesn’t seem personal. Businesses of all sizes can benefit from allowing some of the owners’ personalities to come through and connect with customers in new and energizing ways.

Small businesses, like mine, are especially able to benefit from shining some personality through the standard marketing they practice. Consumers love the notion that they are able to connect with a company by knowing the owner!

Spoken or unspoken, businesses want fans, not just customers. Think about your favorite brand of running shoes or your favorite restaurant. When you recommend these brands, you’re probably not just recommending shoes or enchiladas!

You have a story to tell about your experience with the product, with the employees, or with the owner.

Fans are much more likely to send you more business because they are your cheerleaders.

Organizations that understand this concept leverage their

core stories to bring life their product or service. In most cases people need to see passion and will buy into that before a list of product details.

Inspire people to buy; don’t beat them over the head.

Don’t Take Yourself So Seriously What gets me out of bed in the morning is when I think about interfacing with my customers, because I love people. Meeting new and interesting people is “where it’s at”. Talking to others helps me to focus on

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them as people and not just a revenue stream.

Businesses are picking up on this fact, which is why you see so many commercials about talking to a person not a phone system.

Commercial spots on prime time aren’t cheap, yet this concept is so important to companies that they are spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on personal stories. We love stories and causes greater than ourselves or our products. Being able to tell stories injects personality into your company.

Every company has a personality that is living and breathing.

If your customers don’t witness that, they may not be interested in your product or service.

So, how can you express yourself as a small or medium sized company through story personality? I hope your answer is via social media if you aren’t already there.

Remember, doing business is about people and how they are to be valued no matter how difficult.

What are your ideas?

I would love to hear them!

Send me a Tweet @BrandAid1 with your story!

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS SOLUTIONS Heacock Payroll helps you design & customize your program to include medical, dental, vision, voluntary products and 401(k).

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863.683.2228

CALL TODAY to find out how Heacock Payroll can help your business.

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po lk pr og re s s u p date polk county median prices $300,000

Dr. James Farrell, CFA

$225,000

Florida Southern College

$150,000

$75,000

$0 2000

CONNECT ] FLSouthern.edu/ PolkProgress 20

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2001

While the markets pulled back slightly to finish off May, the S&P recorded its 6th consecutive positive month, climbing over 3%. This movement bucked the trend of May sell-offs that have occurred over the past 3 years as many market participants revisit their positions going into the summer. Most of the news that came out during the month (GDP revisions, consumer spending, etc.) continues to build on the idea that we are in a slow, somewhat steady recovery, where we will continue to add jobs, albeit at a pace just above that needed to keep the unemployment rate stable.

Market attention is turning to interest rates this month, both the potential change in the Federal Reserve’s activities as well as the

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2002

2003

upcoming deadline on the student loan interest rate reset.

First, the Federal Reserve, whose open market operations function to keep interest rates within a prescribed range with the goal of expanding or contracting the economy, the recent stability may entice them to begin to slow down their expansionary policies, allowing the interest rates on US Treasury and agency securities to rise. Given that we are yet to see a spike in inflation, any change will likely be small, however, as the Federal Reserve does not want to act too hastily and derail our still fragile recovery.

Second, the student loan interest rate on federally subsidized loans is set to reset to 6.8% from its current

2004

2005

2006

3.4% on July 1st. With student loan borrowing coming to light as the next potential bubble (rapidly increasing balances and rising late payment/defaults) the interest rate decision could have a significant impact on how it plays out. While the rates on existing loans would not change, the likelihood of repayment would.

For current students, next year’s loans would be at the new interest rate and a higher rate would impede their overall ability to repay due to the higher overall payments upon graduation, increasing default risk (larger monthly payment, same income). For new students, and to a lesser extend existing ones, this could also sway their decision on how much they are willing to borrow, as rates rise it would be expected that

2007

2008

2009

some students would borrow less, slowing the increase in debt balances. Secondary effects of the higher rates likely include a reduction in demand for college, or at least a shift from private to public institutions) for the lower and middle class students and a decline in spending overall as a larger portion of postgraduation income would go towards loan repayment.

The most positive news coming out is regarding the housing market. The CaseShiller S&P Index reported year over year gains of 10.9% in March, both Tampa and Miami reported double digit gains. The continued rebound in prices in the residential market has construction heating up and home sales increase, although we

2010

2011

2012

are still well below our 2006 – 2007 peaks in both. In Polk County, we continue to see rising home prices with 13.3% and 16.0% year-overyear gains for March and April, respectively.

In the chart below you can see how we have fared since the runup from 2003 to 2007 and the collapse from 2007 to 2012. Based on a steady 3% annual growth (long considered acceptable appreciation for real estate) since January 2000, it appears that our market had over-corrected during the collapse and has bounced back to nearly hit the longrun predicted average.

Based on this we should expect appreciation of 5 -7 % over the next year before it stabilizes again, assuming there are no drastic changes in economic conditions or policies.

S in e Di e

rich roy Public Affairs Vice president

CONNECT ] LakelandChamber.com

The last day of the legislative session, better known on Capitol Hill as Sine Die, is a lot like the last day of school. Everyone is excited the end has come. The 60-day legislative session in Tallahassee came to an end on Friday, May 3.

Prior to the start of the 2013 Florida legislative session, Senate President Don Gaetz and House Speaker Will Weatherford outlined a joint agenda that included tackling ethics, elections, campaign finance, state pensions, and higher education. The Florida House and Senate worked together to pass legislation

that made significant reforms to these policy areas, often with strong bi-partisan support.

Due to an improving economy, the state budget had a surplus. This enabled the Legislature to restore funding to numerous programs that had received significant cuts in recent years, provide pay raises to teachers and state workers, increase funding by $1.2 billion for K-12 education programs, and put aside $2.8 billion in reserves for the State of Florida.

Rejecting a tuition increase for state universities and colleges, Gov. Rick Scott signed a new $74

billion state budget into law Monday, May 20, while vetoing $368 million in legislative projects and programs.

In the Lakeland area, most projects escaped the governor’s veto pen, with Scott approving $350,000 for restoration of the Annie Pfeiffer Chapel, $750,000 for the Frank Lloyd Wright Tourism Center, $3.7 million allocated to Skyview Water and Wastewater System improvements, and $4.5 million for a dual-purpose public safety project for Polk County residents.

One policy issue that created strong disagreement in the House and Senate was whether Florida

should accept or reject $51 billion in federal funds to provide health insurance to more than one million uninsured Floridians, as part of the federal Patient Protection and Affordability Care Act (PPACA). The Senate proposal accepted the federal funds to provide health insurance coverage.

The House proposal used state funding only to subsidize coverage for low-income families. Ultimately, the chambers were unable to come to a resolution.

We would like to thank Senators Kelli Stargel, Denise Grimsley, and Darren Soto, and Representatives Seth

McKeel, Ben Albritton, John Wood, Neil Combee, and Mike La Rosa, for their support, hard work and dedication.

We would also like to thank our members for your engagement during session and playing a key role in helping to advance issues of importance within the business world.

Moving forward, your Lakeland Chamber will focus on local issues, such as the upcoming municipal election, infrastructural improvements, and implementation of the above measures to create a more sustainable community.

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Image Credit: Florida Chamber Foundation

Be a part of what’s next.

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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 R o x a ne Towner

| THOR Electrical Consulting, LLC

After almost 30 years of putting on an Air Force uniform, it is nice to wake up without the aid of an alarm. A home office, when possible, is a perfect way to manage all the demands of the day. Coffee is served up and the schedule we hashed out over dinner the night before begins to change around early morning phone calls about electrical systems which have mysteriously stopped working overnight.

THOR’s lead consultant, John Watkins, will head out for a long day in the field.

This is where our story gets interesting; I spend the rest of the morning looking through hundreds of homes for sale. Our new venture is in property investment and rentals. Most of the vacant homes have all the electrical systems stolen.

The wires are cut at the box and removed for scrap metal. A perfect solution for empty time slots on the calendar of an electrical consulting company.

The afternoon is spent in the 24’ by 48’ green house I have in my backyard.

My passion is gardening. With the addition of a fleet of rental properties, I have an endless supply of roses, butterfly bushes, and trumpet trees to plant in their yards. Most rental properties are bland and boring. I want the neighbors to welcome the house to the neighborhood and become allies in our rental adventure.

Late afternoon is spent collecting the paperwork of the day and making sense of it. Deciding what day it is, which tells me where we will have dinner. Tuesday night, Cleveland Heights Early Bird Special or Wednesday night with my sisters are both fun. However, our local Polk County Real Estate Investors group meets every other Thursday and shares an incredible amount of information for new investors.

After the excitement of buying and selling houses all over the United States during my 28 years career, it is natural for me to walk through a property while calculating repair bills and walk out knowing if it’s a contender. We weren’t given much time to set up a house and get to work. The itch to move, in order to satisfy the need to remodel or buy a new house, is satisfied and I get to stay right here in Lakeland. My hometown.

2222 | | F OF O RR UU MMF OF O R RB B UU SS I NI N ES ESS

Leade r s hip L a k e l a n d G ra d uat e s 30 from Cla ss X XX With leadership from Class XXX Chair Kelly Andrews, Florida Southern College, 30 participants officially graduated on May 9, 2013. Beginning in August, the class members undertook a rigorous schedule including overnight and full-day programs to immerse themselves in the community and in the development of leadership skills.

Dr. Linda Acocelli McKeel Academy of Technology

Nolen Bailey

CPS Investment Advisors

Class members during Communications / Arts & Culture Day.

Dr. Craig S. Collins

Stephanie Colón Community Southern Bank

Michael Gene Cooper Dream Center of Lakeland

Christina Elizabeth Criser United Way of Central Florida

Chandra Frederick Class members during Education Day.

Leap Ahead Professional Development, LLC

Chrissanne Long Marketing System Blueprints

Cynthia B. Maddox

Harrison Center for Visual & Performing Arts

Chair Kelly Andrews and Chair-Elect Joe Tedder.

Dr. Marsha M. Leap

Polk County Board of County Commissioners

Eric Abraham Greenhow

Allen & Company of Florida, Inc.

Stephen H. Hamic

Omnia, Inc.

Stephen McConn

Chastain-Skillman, Inc.

Matthew R. Mucci AT&T

Claire Orologas

Polk Museum of Art

Shannon F. Patten Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Thomas Phillips

Lakeland Area Mass Transit District

Matthew Heath Schichtel Heath Funeral Chapel

Lance E. H. Schmidt CliftonLarsonAllen LLP

Hamic, Jones, Hamic, & Sturwold P.A., CPA

Andrew Snyder

Thomas “Trae” Holland

Michael A. Spake

ECON

Lakeland Regional Medical Center

Samuel Andrew Houghton

Alyssia C. Totten

Clark, Campbell & Lancaster, P.A.

Dr. Mary Nelle James, D.C.

Cheatwood Chiropractic Offices, P.A.

Ileana Kniss

Polk State College Foundation

Dixie Signs, Inc.

Starbucks

S. Braxton Wiggs, Esq.

The Pansler Law Firm

James Jason Willey City of Lakeland

Joy Buck Williams JN Partners, LLC

Alice Virginia Koehler Leadership Lakeland Class XXX Reception at the Lakeland Yacht & Country Club.

Learning Resource Center of Polk County

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HONOR A VETERAN!

20% MILITARY DISCOUNT with proof of service (863) 682-3450

Locally owned & operated.

2440 Hwy. 98 North

1 Mile So. of I-4 Across from Lakeland Chrysler

www.officefurnituredepot.com

Summer

CARNIVALE

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

ACU Digital Cam Chair

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 3607 • Lakeland, FL 33802 - 3607

with a

It’s getting hotter, and it’s not just the weather!

Enjoy The Club at Eaglebrooke’s newly renovated sports bar and restaurant as they present a “Cirque du Business After Hours” Spectacular!

Business After Hours Thursday, July 18 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

1300 Eaglebrooke Blvd $10 Chamber Member | $30 Non Chamber Member Your RSVP is appreciated! Visit LakelandChamber.com to register.