August 2010 Forum for Business Monthly

inside this issue

Business After Hours: TriVeritas showcases new building.

Page 3

Small Business of the Month: Find out who is this month’s winner.

Page 5

Welcoming New Members: Hawthorne Inn hosts reception.

Page 9

FORUM FOR BUSINESS monthly Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents! • visit LakelandChamber.com

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

August 2010

Sunrise Surprise

Vol. XX, No. 8

Leadership Lakeland Class XXVII makes special delivery

By Trista Otto,

Saddle Creek Corporation

were met by James Roberts, the Director of Community Development, the staff at Sunrise, and some surprised and excited clients.

On a hot afternoon in July, Leadership Lakeland Class XXVII members were crossing their fingers that the rain would hold off long enough for them to make a very large, and surprise, delivery to Sunrise Community of Polk County, Inc. Lucky for them – it did. At 2:00 p.m. on Thursday July 1, ten members of Class XXVII pulled up to the front doors of Sunrise with three vehicles filled with donations ranging from desks and chairs, to pots and pans, and a little bit of everything in-between. They

Sunrise Community of Polk County, established in 1997 as Wheelhouse, provides assistance and support for people with disabilities. In Lakeland they have 30 individuals living in five group homes, and 36 individuals receiving adult day training services at TEC (Technology and Education Center), which is located at 807 N. Lake Parker Ave.

SAVE THE DATE!

See Sunrise, Page 2

You want ‘em. We’ve got ‘em.

Let’s keep ‘em.

Attend to learn more about Polk's Career Academies and building our future workforce.

Thursday, November 4 7:30 a.m.

The Lakeland Center Hosted by The Workforce Education District Career Academy Advisory Council A very proud moment: Back Row-Far Le: James Roberts, Director of Development and Ashley Green, Area Director.

Back Row: Members of Leadership Lakeland Class XXVII. Front Row: Clients of Sunrise Communities. is initiative is a perfect example of a win-win-win collaboration. What a wonderful way to develop community!

In partnership with The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce

ALSO INSIDE: Upcoming Events • EMERGE Lakeland • Ribbon Cuttings • Members on the Move

Sunrise (Continued from Page 1) During a visit to the TEC as a part of Human Services Day this April, LL Class XXVII recognized there was a need and decided to give back. Some class members reflected on how they wished a place like Sunrise had been available to their loved ones, while others simply felt a tug on their heart to help an organization that is filling such an important role in our community. Michael Folsom, Folsom Construction Inc. and member of Class XXVII, made phone calls to identify what Sunrise needed, and shortly thereafter the Class was mobilized. “Once I had the wish list I reached out to my fellow Leadership Lakeland classmates to see what we could do. The group’s response was amazing. In just three weeks we were able to provide Sunrise with many of the items on their wish list”. Roberts and the entire staff at Sunrise were very appreciative of the efforts of Class XXVII.

If you have an interest in learning more about Sunrise, give them a call – they’d love to give you a tour, introduce you to their clients, and help you understand what they are all about.

Sunrise Community of Polk County, Inc. (863) 688-9671 SunriseGroup.org

Ashley Green, Area Director of Sunrise said “The Leadership Lakeland Class provided everything we had on our wish list. There are enough items to stock all 5 homes and enough program supplies for our adult day training program. These items are so appreciated because there have been severe budget cuts and there are no longer funds to provide these specific items and we would not be able to provide for the every day care of our clients.”

Class XXVII would like to thank the entire staff at Sunrise for all that they do, every day. In addition, a special thank you to The Ledger, Office Furniture Depot, Saddle Creek Corporation, and Folsom Construction for their generous donations.

Aer a very successful shopping trip and collecting items om various sources, members of the class made a huge delivery to Sunrise – It was Christmas in July.

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce Forum For Business Monthly

Volume Information: August 2010 Vol. XX, No. 8

Joe L. Ruthven Chairman of the Board

Kathleen L. Munson Publisher & President

Amy S. Wiggins Editor Kingston Partners Design

100% participation came om Leadership Lakeland Class XXVII. is was a complete and total team effort. Pictured are: Michael Folsom, Folsom Construction; Cindy Green, Furr and Wegman Architects; Trista Otto, Saddle Creek Corporation; Lisa Oliver, LBA, LLAA, and NAWBO; Ramona Blankenship, Attorney; Becky Joyce, Action Professional Recruiters; Mark Gray, MIDFLORIDA Federal Credit Union. And, yes, as they shopped, they borrowed a “2” and a “7” to let everyone know who they were!

No. 2

TriVeritas showcases new building at Business After Hours

By Terry Ottinger

Vice President, Membership Development

Get a group of innovative and active Chamber members together and what happens? One of the best Business After Hours ever!

TriVeritas, LLC coordinated a multi-sponsorship event with other partners to showcase their beautiful new building at 4729 US Highway 98 South. Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, Central Florida Mediation Group, JSK Consulting Inc., Hulbert Homes, Central Florida Internal Medicine Associates and

Premier Care Professionals joined forces to provide food from GrillSmith, drinks and a band to help celebrate the completion of the first phase of the project. The beauty and workmanship of the building was reflected in the pride of all partners, as tours were given. Upstairs in Northwestern Mutual Financial Network’s conference room, a new dessert called “lolly cakes” was a big hit, and encouraged members to network throughout the building.

A special thanks to Thomas Pate of Northwestern Mutual for his hard work as well as everyone that helped make this event very special.

TriVeritas partners and clients accept the plaque of appreciation for the June Business Aer Hours.

Members listen intently for door prize drawing

Save the Date for Politics in the Park

Politics in the Park is right around the corner! This year’s event will be held in Munn Park on October 7 from 5:00-8:00 p.m.

This old-fashioned political rally gives participants the opportunity to meet with candidates and discuss campaign issues.

Federal, state and local candidates have been invited to participate. Be sure to attend to vote for your favorite candidate in the straw poll! The November elections promise to be very exciting and Politics in the Park offers the community the perfect venue to meet the candidates and hear first hand their positions on the many important issues facing our region.

Keeping with the theme of an “old-fashioned� political rally, there will be plenty of apple pie and ice cream, beverages and live entertainment. This event is for the entire family and is free to the public. Tickets to the popular VIP Party will be available in September. Tickets are $50. VIP participants mingle with the candidates and hour prior to the event at a reception hosted by Wachovia.

We still have several sponsorship opportunities available! If you are helping a candidate, working on a referendum, or member of a political organization that would like to purchase a table and participate, call Katie Daughtrey at (863) 688-8551, Ext. 241.

No. 4

July Small Business of the Month Award presented

By Tim Jackson NuJak Companies

Wallis Murphey Boyington (WMB) Architects, Inc. was founded in 1980 with history in Lakeland stretching back to 1964. Today, the partners John Wallis III, AIA, J. Michael Murphey, AIA and Steven J. Boyington, AIA lead the full service architectural firm.

Their mission is to provide quality, costeffective solutions that serve their business and residential clients’ specific needs.

Wallis Murphey Boyington is an “Architecture for Business” centered practice; they understand that they are providing “facilities” whose purpose is to facilitate their client’s goal. The goal is not to create a building for its own sake, but strictly to enable the client to realize their business and personal goals. This sometimes means finding a solution which enables a client not to have to

build a costly project. They remember that the building itself cannot become more important and/or costly than that which it facilitates, be that an industrial assembly space with complex processes; an office to optimize the intellectual resources of an enterprise; or a home to nurture a family! WMB focus on industrial, multi-family, master plans, light medical and interior space planning.

Located at 110 South Kentucky Avenue, Wallis Murphey Boyington has been in downtown Lakeland since their inception in 1980, and with the restoration of the Munn Annex (once the founder of Lakeland’s private office) in 1985-1986, their commitment to the Lakeland Community was solidified. WMB has always felt that being in downtown has benefitted them. It has given them both convenience and accessibility to many of the offices they deal with on a daily basis, and has cemented their place in Lakeland.

July Winner Wallis Murphey Boyington Architects, Inc. 110 S. Kentucky Avenue Lakeland, FL 33801-5002 (863) 687-3573 (863) 683-6370 Fax www.wmbarchs.com

Wallis Murphey Boyington has been a member of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce for many years. Their architects have worked with Habitat for Humanity and Alliance for Independence and have served on the boards of Historic Lakeland, Leadership Lakeland (Boyington was a member of Class IX and Chair of Class XVI), Leadership Lakeland Alumni, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, The Polk Museum of Art, Learning Resource Center, The Sertoma Club, Rotary, and Polk Businesses for World Class Education. They have provided pro bono work for the Alliance for Independence, Boys and Girls Clubs of Winter Haven, Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine Clinic, the American Cancer Society, and St. Joseph Academy.

Wallis Murphey Boyington is proud to have done projects as diverse as local landmarks Hollis Garden, City Hall, Lakeland Train Station, and Florida Southern College Wellness Center to the award winning master plans for the Garden District and Cleveland Street in Clearwater.

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates Wallis Murphey Boyington Architects, Inc. as the Small Business of the Month for July.

Small Business of the Month Committee Member, Tim Jackson (NuJak Companies) presents the July Small Business of the Month award to Wallis Murphey Boyington Architects, Inc. On hand to accept the award were John Wallis, Mike Murphey, Steve Boyington, Margarita Nielson, Dawn Patterson, Matt Lukens, Mark Mclean and Erica Azorin.

Region Banks sponsors June’s Business and Breakfast

By Sue McGuire

Keegan. At the end questions were asked from the audience on all subjects, which evolved to questions about mortgage lending. At this point we had Dave Shannon, a residential lender with Regions, come up and answer questions and give updated information on what’s happening in the residential market. The audience participation was very open and frank and we hope this breakfast has helped our small business community understand better with this economy what banks are looking for-whether it’s for small business needs, mortgage financing or insight on investing. Thanks to OUR local chamber that supports Lakeland!

Regions Bank

On Thursday June 10, 2010 the Chamber had its breakfast meeting at the Regions downtown office in Lakeland. We had several speakers that gave valuable information ranging from “How To Become Bankable” by Patti Rubin, Business Banker at Regions, SBA lending-“Myths and what’s Really Happening” by Patrick McEvoy who is an SBA lender with GULFCoast Business Finance from Orlando, “What Drives the Market” by Chris Dickman, Financial Advisor with Morgan

Patti Ruben (Regions Bank) presents door prize to Brad Jenckes of Lakeland Flooring

Members receive handouts and listen to presentation.

No. 6

Each month, the Chamber enlists the help of 20 volunteers to mentor new and current members with involvement in Chamber events and programs. This dedicated group of professionals is rewarded for their efforts through a points system, Kathryn Koch and the Champion with the most points is featured in the Forum for Business Monthly.

This month, the Chamber would like to recognize K a th r y n K oc h,Vi c e P r e si de n t w it h La nie r Up sh a w, I nc . for her outstanding attention to Chamber members and attendance at events! Kathryn is a wonderful asset to the Chamber and to the Lakeland community!

CHAMBER CHAMPION FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST IS

Kathryn Koch

No. 8

Hawthorne Inn hosts June’s New Member Reception

By Terry Ottinger

Vice President, Membership Development

The June New Member Reception was held at Hawthorne Inn located at 6150 Lakeland Highlands Rd. New members listened to Chamber staff explain opportunities to promote their businesses through events, advertising and networking opportunities. Programs such as Chamber Champions and LEADS Groups, along with a presentation from S.C.O.R.E. provide the

Aer orientation, members gives their 30 second commercials

perfect environment for business growth. A special thanks to Ms. Kim Broom, Administrator and her staff for a wonderful event.

Presenting Sponsor Riverside Bank is an integral partner in welcoming new members and starting them down the path to involvement with the Chamber. The Chamber is proud to recognize their contribution.

SCORE’s Becky Bywater explains how the volunteer organization works.

NEW MEMBERS

e Chamber is proud to welcome 14 new members for June 2010 Through their membership in the Chamber, businesses invest in themselves and their community. We urge you to “Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents!” by doing business with these new Chamber members.

For the most up-to-date list of members, visit our on-line Preferred Business Directory at: LakelandChamber.com!

Allure Salon Day Spa Lakeland Inc.

Jets Pizza of Lakeland

www.AllureSalonDaySpa.com

www.jetspizza.com

5668 S Florida Ave Lakeland, FL 33813-2526 (863) 644-8663 Fax: (863) 709-1022 Annette Rising Spa - Day

Coast Dental

2960 Lakeland Highlands Rd Lakeland, FL 33803-4370 (863) 665-1545 Fax: (888) 262-7844

www.coastdental.com Ms. Chris Duffy Dentists

Coast Dental

4744 S Florida Ave Lakeland, FL 33813-2181 (863) 644-1226 Fax: (888) 262-7844

www.coastdental.com Terek Diasti Dentist

Coast Dental

5380 N Socrum Loop, # 8 Lakeland, FL 33809 (863) 937-0190 Fax: (863) 937-0195

www.coastdental.com Dawn Vanderlinden Dentists

Events by Joann, LLC 8216 US Highway 98 N Lakeland, FL 33809-5326 (863)859-5056

www.eventsbyjoann.com Joann Moncada Event Coordinator

Foot and Ankle Associates

2939 S Florida Ave Lakeland, FL 33803-4046 (863) 687-3404 Fax: (863) 687-4672

www.floridafootandankle.com

Dr. Matthew B. Werd Physicians & Surgeons - DPM- Podiatrists

Integrity Insurance Agency

310 E Memorial Blvd Lakeland, FL 33801-1767 (863) 683-1768 Fax: (863) 682-6679 April Y. Williams Insurance

3234 S Florida Ave, Ste A Lakeland, FL 33803-4564 (863) 709-0999 Fax: (863) 648-9138 David Magalotti Restaurants

Lakeland Football Booster Club 726 Hollingsworth Drive Lakeland, FL 33801-5818 (863) 738-1336 www.lakelandfootball.com Rob Myers Association

Mary Kay Cosmetics & Skin Care Consultant - Regi Murray Lakeland, FL 33801-6431 (863) 226-2111 Regina Murray

www.marykay.com/regimurray Cosmetics

Polk Accident and Rehab Clinic 708 South Florida Avenue Lakeland, FL 33801-5233 (863) 937-8939 Fax: (863) 937-8941 Dan Jolich, D.C. Chiropractic Physicians

Specialized Labor Services

712 East Alsobrook St., Ste 3 Plant City, FL 33563-6600 (813) 754-4664 Fax: (813) 754-9800 Angelo Murray Employment Contractors

The End Zone, Lakeland 6206 US Hwy 98 N Lakeland, FL 33809-3277 (863) 420-7226 Fax: (863)858-2897 Doris & Paul VanSickle Restaurants

USA Bearings & Belts

3615 Century Blvd., Ste 4A Lakeland, FL 33811-1396 (863) 248-8499 Fax: (863) 647-4114

www.usabearingsandbelts.com

Jo Dinius Bearings & Belts Industrial Equipment & Supplies No. 10

Public Transit Initiative Planned for November Ballot

By Carolyn Simpson, A Better Polk

This November a ½ cent sales tax for public transportation will be on the ballot. The tax will fund public transportation across Polk County. Over the last ten years, ridership has increased over 30%. However, there is no dedicated funding source to meet this growing demand.

Currently, Polk County has three separate public transportation systems with partially blended services and schedules. In 2003, a countywide Transportation Study identified a way to combine the three transit providers, fragmented funding and services into a single authority. In 2007, The Polk Transit Authority (PTA) was created through legislation passed in Tallahassee. The purpose of this legislation was to allow for the creation of a single entity to oversee public transit throughout the county in a coordinated manor.

The Polk Transit Authority (PTA) worked with local governments, stakeholders and citizens to identify today’s needs and plan for tomorrow. A five-year plan was developed to enhance public transportation. Under this plan, transit service will increase through the addition of express routes, local circulators, new and more frequent local service. The increased service will also provide residents with better access to businesses, jobs, shopping, health care, and other community services.

With the announcement of a new high-speed passenger rail system, Polk County needs to remain competitive and this new transportation plan will help provide increased public transportation options that will benefit our economy and our community.

In addition, economic studies show that for every dollar invested in public transportation there are between four and nine dollars in local economic activity. The ½ cent sales tax is estimated to generate $31 million annually - that means between $120 and $270 million in private economic activity for Polk County.

Along with the positive impact on the economy, the new county-wide system will provide special transit services for the elderly and frequent pick-ups will be scheduled in heavily traveled routes to ensure convenience for passengers of all ages.

The money raised by the ½ cent sales tax will go into a separate public transportation fund and there will be a citizen oversight committee that will be responsible for reviewing expenditures and conducting periodic audits of those expenditures. Committee meetings will be open to the public.

If this measure passes, Polk County will be eligible for federal and state transportation funding. This could mean millions of dollars in additional funding that would help to fund additional buses and increased service.

See Public Transit Initiative, Page 19

No. 12

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................................308 Relocation Response Mailings..............5 Relocation Response (Walk-Ins)..........15 Accommodations.................................1

Winter Accommodations .....................0 Visitor Information Mailings .................5 Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries...........120

MARK YOUR CALENDAR EVENTS

Thursday, August 5

Business & Breakfast, 7:30 a.m.

True MD, 3627 S Florida Ave

Thursday, August 12

Leadership Lakeland Class XXVIII Opening Reception, 5:30 p.m.

Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

Thursday, August 19

Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m.

Magnify Credit Union, 961 E County Road 540A

MEETINGS

Monday, August 2 Chamber Foundation Board of Directors Meeting, 4:00 p.m.

Monday, August 9

EMERGE Lakeland Steering Committee, 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, August 11

Government Affairs, 8:00 a.m.

Thursday, August 12

Leadership Lakeland Class XXVIII Orientation, 2:00 p.m.

Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

Wednesday, August 18

Executive Committee Meeting, 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, August 25

Board of Directors Meeting, Noon 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

Thursday, August 26

SCORE Business Roundtable, 7:30 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

Monthly updates for Lakeland’s young professionals Experience EMERGE

By EMERGE Lakeland Marketing Committee

EMERGE Lakeland members enjoyed the opportunity to visit the new Watson Clinic Bella Vista Spa on June 15. Ian McIntosh from Body & Soul Massage and Wellness discussed the importance of massage therapy and stretching exercises.

Whitney Cabrera of Strategic Wellness discussed the science behind nutrient density and the power of simple choices to prevent and reverse disease. Dr. Joffre Rivera, M.D., Gastroenterologist with Watson Clinic, discussed acid reflux disease including symptoms, treatment, causes and prevention. A Black & Brew boxed lunch was provided by Community Southern Bank. Following lunch EMERGE members were given a tour of the state-of-the-art full-service spa facility.

EMERGE Lakeland is excited to announce the third annual P2P Program.

P2P = Peer to Peer Networking and aims to enrich the professional development of Lakeland's young professionals by partnering them with existing EMERGE Lakeland members. All newly connected young professionals will participate in two EMERGE Lakeland membership programs and in four specifically designed P2P events or activities.

Please visit EMERGELakeland.com/P2P for more information.

Visit EMERGELakeland.com to learn more about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities and development and so-

cial outings. If you are not a member, consider attending and learn more about EMERGE and how you can become more involved in our community.

EMERGE promotes social interaction among young professionals, opportunities for philanthropic engagement and career enrichment.

You can follow EMERGE on Twitter @emergelakeland and join the EMERGE Lakeland Group on Facebook. Get involved! Join EMERGE Lakeland today!

Ian McIntosh with Body & Soul Massage and Wellness discussed the importance of massage therapy and stretching exercises with Bryan Dhue om DMA Engineering, Inc.

No. 14

Common Grounds

A taste of local business one cup at at time

By Sharon Casey,

Community Southern Bank

The founding Board of Directors of Community Southern Bank had a vision to create a local independent community bank as an alternative to the large regional and national banking entities that populate Polk County.

The founders saw the need and believed the economic growth in Polk County, combined with the substantial consolidation of the banking industry in our banking area, created a window of significant opportunity for a new independent community-based bank to establish itself as a sound and logical alternative to the big banks in our service area.

Community Southern Bank operates as a full service, state-chartered, commercial bank with primary emphasis on customer recognition, high quality service directed at meeting the financial needs of the individuals and business in and around Lakeland and Bartow.

Our bank received regulatory approval for operation of a financial institution and opened our doors on August 28, 2006. Community Southern Bank has focused on providing a broad array of consumer and commercial banking services to Polk County. We emphasize our local ownership and management. We have strong ties to the community at large and demand that our staff remain very involved in the community and in all local events, clubs and non-profit organizations. We have devoted a significant amount of space in our two offices to provide a free usage of a “Community Room” equipped with the latest technology and media to business and organizations to utilize seven days per week. We also offer a free “Courier Service” so if our customers cannot make it to Community Southern Bank; we send the bank to them!

Our Board designed the bank to be able to originate a variety of residential and commercial loans to be made in Polk County. This is in contrast to the out of state banks that gather deposits and lend the money in other states such as California, North Carolina, Alabama and Georgia. In addition, our bank has remained healthy because our Board and Loan Committee Members are all local people who know their borrowers and are very familiar with the local market area.

After three short years of operation, the dream and vision of a locally operated community bank has become reality. The community has demonstrated the need for a neighborhood independent bank by providing the capital needed to open our doors and by growing the assets to almost two hundred million dollars since August 28, 2006. Thank you Polk County!

RENEWALS

The Chamber would like to recognize and thank the following businesses for their long-standing support and loyalty.

20+ Years Renewals

1953 – 57 Years Allen & Company of Florida, Inc. 1956 – 54 Years Marshall Jewelers 1959 – 51 Years The Ruthvens 1968 – 42 Years Williams-Hess Insurance 1970 – 40 Years Lohr Enterprises 1973 – 37 Years Furr & Wegman Architects, P.A. Gene Engle, REALTOR Peppertree Village Apartments 1975 – 35 Years Bent's Cycling & Fitness Crawford Bracken, P.A. 1976 - 34 Years XYZ Liquor 1978 – 32 Years Craig W. Valentine, D.M.D., P.A. 1980 – 30 Years Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney and Lancaster, P.A. Browning Moving & Storage/United Van Lines Zimmermann Associates, Inc. 1981 – 29 Years Lakeland Rifle & Pistol Club Inc. 1982 – 28 Years Crown Printing, Inc. Perpetual Technology Solutions 1984 – 26 Years Lakeside Pediatrics/Northside Polk County Fraternal Order of Police 1985 – 25 Years Drummond Company, Inc. 1986 – 25 Years Vogel Bros. Building Co. 1988 – 22 Years Baskets Instead, Inc. Polk County Animal Hospital 1989 – 21 Years Albe Stamp & Engraving Alliance for Independence formerly PCAHC 1990 - 20 Years All-Brite Specialty Services, Inc.

15-Year Renewals

Combee Insulation Company, Inc. Mas Verde Mobile Home Estates, Inc. Carlton Music Center

10-Year Renewals

Beall Insurance Services/Deborah Beall Vinson, Agent United Rentals, Inc. Keiser University

5-Year Renewals

Sharon Casey, Vice President and Director of Business Relations enjoys her morning cup of coffee.

Brooks Chandler Realty, LLC Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro ChiefLand Property & Land Management, LLC Cornerstone Hospice

AUGUST MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

Watson Clinic LLP

Watson Clinic cardiologist John G. Canto, MD, MSPH, FACC, FACP, FAHA, FASE, was recently featured as a guest presenter during the 59th Annual Scientific Session of the American College of Cardiology held in Atlanta, GA in March. Dr. Canto spoke to attendees from across the globe concerning the information contained within a recent article he co-authored titled ‘Sex Differences in Presentation Without Chest Pain for Confirmed Myocardial Infarction,’ which illustrated that women are significantly less likely than men to suffer from chest discomfort prior to myocardial infarction.

Danielle Fence Mfg. Co., Inc.

Proudly announces their expansion of over 200 new products, including paver stone, built-in and stand alone grills, low voltage lighting, outdoor cooling systems and bug repellent solutions.

They are entering the final phase of construction on a new 28,000 square foot “out-

Alliance for Independence

Pleased to welcome Tim Kiley and Philip Mowry to its Board of Directors. Tim is an attorney with Peterson & Myers, P.A. and specializes in Corporate and Business Law as well as Healthcare and Real Estate Law. Tim is a member of the Lakeland Bar Association, The Learning Resource Center Board of Directors and EMERGE Lakeland. Philip is the Vice President for Advancement at Florida Southern College.

Philip is also affiliated with the Lakeland Economic Development Council and the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce.

Also, AFI is pleased to announce the promotion of Jesse Osgood to Residential Manager. Jesse began his involvement with AFI as an intern in the Communications & Development Department in 2008 while attending Southeastern University. Upon graduation, Jesse was hired as a Residential staff member in 2009 and was recently promoted to Residential Manager of the Carleton Group Home which serves 6 men.

CivilSurv Design Group, Inc.

Pleased to announce that Greg Jordan has been named I.T. and Operations Manager and Desiree L. Evans has been named Director of Administration.

Lakeland OB/GYN, a Division of Women’s Care Florida

Zaira Moreno, MD of Lakeland OB-GYN, a Division of Women’s Care Florida, has recently received her certification as a Diplomate of The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. This 2 year, rigorous process, consists of both written and oral examinations.

No. 16

door design center” featuring all your outdoor living space needs. The center is the only one of its kind in Central Florida and will allow patrons to stroll through the center and experience all your outdoor products in an installed setting, just as if you were in your own backyard.

The Lakeland Chamber prints business announcements each month as space permits.

Please mail your announcements to the Chamber or e-mail: membersonthemove@LakelandChamber.com

JSK Consulting, Inc.

Sarah Case, of JSK Consulting has been named Vice Chair for the 2010-2011 Girls Incorporated of Lakeland Board of Directors. Girls Inc. is a national nonprofit youth organization dedicated to inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold.

CPS Investment Advisors

Chas P. Smith, CPA/PFS, president of CPS Investment Advisors, attended a two day investment forum at the Harvard University Faculty Club in Boston, MA. Professors from Harvard University business school presented topics on multi asset allocation and alternative investments strategies.

Lanier Upshaw Lanier Upshaw is proud to announce that Mike Easton, AAI has joined the agency as Vice President.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate Realtors, LLC

Pleased to announce that Greg Smith; Clay Taylor, ALC; David Hitchcock and Darby Craddock worked almost two years to close the sale of 34 +/- acres in Frostproof formerly owned by Dimara Corporation. Buyer Lomas Del Sol LLC purchased the improved property for $1,050,000 and plans to utilize the parcel and facilities for an H2A Farm Labor Housing Facility by the buyer.

Polk County Builders Assoc.

Pleased to announce that Anne Hough has joined the Association as the Foundation Director. Anne was involved with the Association back in the 1990’s while working in the residential lending industry. As a volunteer, Anne received the Motivation Award from President Bob Godbee in 1993 and has served as Spike Club Chair, Auction Chair, Builder/Realtor Liaison Chair and served on the PCBA Board of Directors.

PCBA Foundation was awarded the Polk Works “Partners of Excellence Award” for their development of the “Go Green Building” teaching series. Mike Hickman, President of the Foundation accepted the Award at the June 22 ceremony.

Tri-County Human Services, Inc.

Robert C. Rihn, Executive Director, is proud to announce that Tri-County Human Services, Inc. has been awarded a three-year accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). This accreditation survey found the agency ranking in the top three percent of all CARF accredited facilities internationally according to CARF President Brian J. Boon. This marks the second time in the past three surveys that Tri-County has had perfect scores.

RIBBON CUTTINGS The following companies recently celebrated their ribbon cuttings in the month of June.

See the photos on our Web site at LakelandChamber.com.

1321 E Memorial Blvd • Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 286-1962

Healing Hands Pain Relief

www.floridasecuritysource.com (863) 241-1923

GEM Enterprises

Fortis Institute formerly Florida Career Institute

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans

5925 Imperial Parkway, Ste 200 • Mulberry, FL 33860 (863) 646-1400 • www.fortis.edu

(863) 619-8781

BRMC/Elite Surgical Associates

3644 Innovations Drive • Lakeland, FL 33812 www.bartowregional.com (863) 646-5789

RIBBON CUTTING THANK YOU

Special thanks to Commissioner Glenn E. Higgins, Commissioner Phillip Walker, Commissioner Howard Wiggs and all the Board Members and Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies a special event.

No. 18

Public Transit Initiative If the ½ cent sales tax is approved it will mean the end of the property tax levied by the Lakeland Area Mass Transit District, which has operated Lakeland's Citrus Connection bus system since 1982. At the County level, $1.4 million from the general fund currently used for transit will be returned to the general fund and available to fund other vital services.

The ½ cent sales tax would create a dedicated funding mechanism for public tran-

(Continued from Page 11)

sit and allow Polk County to have a countywide integrated public transit system.

Under this plan, service will be expanded; park and ride and bike and ride options will also be expanded. Mass transit impacts everything from economic development to the quality of the environment and the lives of Polk County residents.

For more information on the ½ cent transportation sales tax referendum please visit PolkTransitAuthority.com.

BUSINESS AND BREAKFAST G WAREH

TRUE MD 3627 S FLORIDA AVE THURSDAY, AUGUST 5 7:30 – 9:00 A.M.

$5 Chamber Member ~ $15 Non-Member Please R.S.V.P. by 5:00 p.m. the day prior to the event.

You may register and pay online at LakelandChamber.com or by E-mailing psmith@lakelandchamber.com

THURSDAY, AUGUST 19 5:30 – 7:30 P.M.

$10 Chamber Member ~ $30 Non-Chamber member Your R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit BAH.LakelandChamber.com to register and pay using your credit card or email psmith@LakelandChamber.com to register and pay at the door.

Return Service Requested

PAID

PERMIT # 31 LAKELAND FLORIDA

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE

P.O. Box 3607 • Lakeland, FL 33802-3607

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce MAGNIFY CREDIT UNION 961 E COUNTY ROAD 540A