May 2010 Forum for Business Monthly

inside this issue

CommUnity Celebration: Carlos Luna featured speaker at annual event.

Page 3

Time for Mayfaire: This year’s event boasts new hours, live music & more.

Page 2

Business After Hours: Office Furniture Depot continues tradition.

Page 6

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

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

May 2010

Tourism promises economic impacts for Lakeland’s future

Vol. XX, No. 5

By Amy Wiggins

Vice President, Communications

Through the years, Lakeland and Polk County have witnessed many changes in the economic landscape; supported by farming & citrus companies, manufacturers & distributors and professional & technical businesses attracted to the heart of Florida’s high-tech corridor. But through it all, tourism has remained a steady source of sales tax, retail shopping and dining revenues.

The announcement of LegoLand’s purchase of the Cypress Gardens property in Winter Haven has started Lakeland and Polk County tourism officials on a whirlwind tour to capitalize on the economic potential. Lakeland Linder Regional Airport’s new Director, Gene Conrad, sees promise and opportunity in the tourism market, echoing Lakeland’s attempts to market the location with “unpack once and see it all!”

The LegoLand deal will create the second park in the United States for Merlin Entertainment, and the largest LegoLand park in the world, garnering world-wide attention for Polk County. With the regional airport capable of accommodating personal planes, charter jets and cargo carriers, Lakeland stands to benefit from International travelers as well as domestic LegoLand fans.

2010

LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP

BREAKFAST Lakeland Linder Regional Airport today.

This month, representatives from the Lakeland business community, the Lakeland Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, the Central Florida Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CFVCB), and other Polk County stakeholders will travel to Merlin Entertainment headquarters in London with plans to meet with LegoLand officials and develop a marketing strategy to build tourism in our area.

Data from the CFVCB indicates that the economic impact for the County will reach $459 million-including a $100+ million capital See Tourism, Page 2

Enjoy breakfast with our Polk County Delegation and discover firsthand how the business community fared during the 2010 Legislative Session.

Thursday, May 20 7:00 a.m.

Lakeland Yacht & Country Club 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive $25 Chamber Members $30 Non-members Seating is limited!

Log on to: LakelandChamber.com to make your reservation!

For more information call (863) 688-8551, Ext. 228 See Sponsors, Page 3

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

If it’s May, it’s MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake!

This year’s event boasts new hours, live music, children’s art activities

By Meredith Spresser Polk Museum of Art

Many Lakeland residents know that each year during Mother’s Day weekend, Lake Morton and MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake are the place to be. What many folks don’t know is that the event has been organized and presented by Polk Museum of Art for 39 years! Mayfaire started as a small craft festival on the lawn of the library and has grown into one of the oldest, largest, and most respected outdoor art festivals in Central Florida. Last year, it was again named to Sunshine Artist Magazine's list of the top 200 shows in the country! For Lakeland, the visitors, artists and vendors of Mayfaire represent a $2.3 million economic impact!

While many of the features of Mayfaire are familiar to long-time residents, this year the festival has new hours so that more people can enjoy shopping in the relative cool of the morning. The new hours are from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Admission to Mayfaire is free. Attendees can browse the art festival and check out the other activities of the day, including children’s art activities, musical performances, and food.

Last year, the Children's Art Tent was

MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake Events

Friday, May 7 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Mayfaire Kick-Off Party | Lakeland Public Library Lawn Relax under the canopy of giant oak trees as you enjoy food, an open bar, and live music. Tickets are $25 for PMoA Members, $30 Non-Members, and $35 the day of the event.

Saturday, May 8 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Mayfaire by-the-Lake Open Live music, children’s art tent, and more.

Mayfaire 2010: Art by Rasa Saldaitis

moved to the Museum parking lot, and families with children will be able to find it there again, complete with free hands-on art activities. Kids can also purchase tickets to play in bouncy inflatables or climb a rock wall.

As always, free parking will be available at Florida Southern College. Park in the lot behind the Roux Library on McDonald Street, and a free “May-Ferry” golf cart shuttle will whisk you down to Lake Morton so that you can enjoy the festivities.

There will also be free shuttles running around Lake Morton during so that you can catch a ride when your feet get tired.

Tourism

Mayfaire Saturday Night | 5:00 p.m. – late Free street party at the Lake Mirror promenade. Features “The Rogues” performing a variety of live music, the Mayfaire Classic 5k, and fireworks at around 9pm. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs to come out and enjoy the night!

Sunday, May 9 | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Mayfaire by-the-Lake Open Live music, children’s art tent, and more.

For more information about MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake, visit PolkMuseumofArt.org/Mayfaire or call (863) 688-7743.

Continued om Page 1

investment, 1,000 new jobs and $1.4 million in sales tax revenues for in-park spending. Considering the future of the University of South Florida Polytechnic campus, along with the recently announced Pharmacy School, Lakeland and Polk County are quickly becoming an epicenter of technology, education and tourism. The Chamber’s continued support and collaboration with the City of Lakeland Area Lakeland’s CVB marketChamber of Commerce ing efforts allows Forum For Business Monthly

our members to be placed in the spotlight of the partnerships that are nurtured.

You can read more on the future of LegoLand and the Lakeland CVB’s efforts to bring tourism dollars to Lakeland by visiting Blog.LakelandChamber.com/Tourism.

Volume Information: May 2010 Vol. XX, No. 5

Joe L. Ruthven Chairman of the Board

Kathleen L. Munson Publisher & President

Amy S. Wiggins Editor Kingston Partners Design

e City’s Municipal Airport, 1937.

No. 2

Carlos Luna and Teresa Martinez remained aer the event for a special signing of Teresa’s newly published book, Success in Exile: Five Decades of Cuban Stories.

The Lois Cowles Harrison School for the Visual and Performing Arts was one of several schools attending the event.

Teresa Martinez, Institute of Spanish Communication, assists in translating Carlos Luna’s message to the audience.

Carlos Luna, Pa arriba - Pa abajo (dyptic), 2007, Gouache and charcoal on amate pape r, 62 x 39 in (157.5 x 99 cm); presented to the Polk Museum of Art by Dr. and Mrs. Emilio Montero.

Also pictured, the Luna family and PMo A Executive Director, Daniel Stetson.

Karen Marker, Chair of e Polk Museum of Art’s ro, Acquisitions & Collections Committee, Dr. Monte Mr. and Carlos Luna look on as Dan Stetson, explains and art of piece ular partic this for tion inspira s Luna’ what message it is sending to the observer.

Below, the audience enjoyed the live entertainment of Lemay Olano-James and his “Puras Cuerdas”. e members of “Puras Cuerdas” are also om Cuba.

ks, Stacy Campbell-Domineck, PolkWor ly served as emcee of the event and real a embraced the Latin theme of the fiest L. Joe ir Cha e. drob war with her fabulous d the Ruthven, e Ruthvens, welcome attendees.

Approximately 500 people om our community attended the 11th annual CommUnity Celebration.

Diana Brown, GEICO, discovered during the keynote that she is om the same small town in Cuba as Carlos Luna. Bob Morrow, GEICO, listens as Diana and Ernesto Camilo Luna - also om Cuba, Carlos Luna share demonstrated his expertise in the art of hand memories of rolling cigars.

Pinar del Rio.

2010 LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP

BREAKFAST PRESENTING SPONSORS CF Industries Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney & Lancaster, PA

GOLD SPONSORS Center for Retina and Macular Disease Folsom Construction, Inc. Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic Center LLP Watson Clinic, LLP

Continued om Page 1

SILVER SPONSORS Bank of Central Florida JSK Consulting, Inc. Marriott Vacation Club International

Amendment 4 will cost Florida jobs

By Katie Daughtrey

Vice President, Public Affairs

Legislative Session is upon us and the top concern for Florida’s lawmakers is tackling record unemployment in our state.

However, this work is overshadowed by Amendment 4—a proposed change to our state constitution, which threatens to drive Florida’s unemployment rate even higher.

unemployment) indicates that Amendment 4 could drive Florida’s jobless rate to well over 15 percent. Given the fact that our unemployment rate is continuing to rise, it is clear that the last thing Florida needs is Amendment 4, a proposal that would rapidly accelerate this alarming trend.

If passed, Amendment 4 would require taxpayer-funded referenda for any change to a local government’s comprehensive plan. This California-style “Vote on Everything” measure would often force voters to decide hundreds of minor, technical plan revisions on a single ballot.

Ultimately, Amendment 4 will mean longer delays, higher costs, and more burdensome litigation for small businesses.

According to a study conducted by The Washington Economics Group (WEG), Amendment 4 would likely cost Florida over a quarter-of-a-million jobs.

Construction would be hit the hardest, with more than 100,000 jobs lost. However, every sector of Florida's economy would be adversely impacted, including tourism, energy, telecommunications, retail, health care and education. Florida would also lose more than 92,000 jobs in the knowledge-based services sector. These high-paying jobs, which represent the future of Florida’s economy, are crucial for the full and swift economic recovery of the Sunshine State. Professor Tony Villamil, a former economic advisor to Governor Bush and the lead economist for WEG stated, “Amendment 4's passage will have potentially devastating consequences to Florida's economy at a time when the economic situation at both the state and national levels is uncertain and at a time when attracting new businesses to Florida is essential for the future recovery and prosperity of the state and its residents."

Villamil’s report indicates that Amendment 4 would further damage our economy by killing jobs and raising unemployment at a time when Florida’s working families and small businesses can least afford it.

Florida’s Agency for Workforce Innovation recently reported that February’s jobless rate rose to a record high of 12.2 percent.

However, a recent report by the Gulf Coast Business Review (Amendment means No. 4

Amendment 4 is a reckless, short-sighted proposal which would undermine efforts to diversify Florida's economy by creating unpredictable and chaotic business conditions. And while Amendment 4 is a bad idea in any economy, the current recession would make it nothing short of catastrophic. For more information on Amendment 4, please visit Florida2010.org

April Small Business of the Month Award presented

By Terri Goleno

Cheatham, Goleno, & Ferguson, P.A.

Dr. Bopp opened his practice more than 33 years ago, making his office the longest-standing pediatric dentistry practice in Lakeland. In July, 2007, Dr. Jordan Tarver joined the practice, after graduating from the University of Florida Dental School. Dr. Tarver grew up as a patient and neighbor of Dr. Bopp.

Dr. Bopp and Dr. Tarver perform infant exams as well as orthodontic, restorative and cosmetic treatment for children of all ages. They accept most insurances and Medicaid serving patients of all levels. Dr. Bopp believes it is important to teach good oral health to our children.

Dr. Jordan Tarver, Debbie Adrian and Dr. Harry Bopp accept the April Small Business of the Month Award om Small Business of the Month Award Committee Member, Terri Goleno (Cheatham, Goleno & Ferguson, P.A.).

To do this, he and his dental health educator provide information and dental supplies to over 75 elementary schools and health fairs each year.

For many years his staff was famous for throwing out toothbrushes rather than candy from their float at the annual Lakeland Christmas Parade.

The office strives to make going to the dentist fun for children. The experience is similar to a trip to a park or play-area, all-the-while providing educational information to both children and parents.

Dr. Bopp’s 6,600 sq ft custom building was completed in 2006. It includes a two-story playhouse, state of the art game cubes, movies and dental chairs with TV’s and headsets. There is even a tooth fairy hotline, where children can talk to the tooth fairy.

April Winner

Harry E. Bopp, DMD, PA Jordan Tarver, DMD 1111 N. Parkway Frontage Road Lakeland, FL 33803-0400 www.lakelandpediatricdentistry.com (863) 644-2408 Phone (863) 646-8493 Fax

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Dr. Harry Bopp and Dr. Jordan Tarver as the Small Business of the Month for April.

Attention:

Dedication to his patients is evidenced by the fact that among his patients are many children of previous patients including the daughter of his very first patient. Dr. Bopp, Dr. Tarver and their staff are committed to providing the best possible care for all their patients.

It is time to update our Lakeland Area Guide to Clubs & Organizations.

Dr. Bopp and Dr. Tarver are members of the Polk County Dental Association, the American Dental Association, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. They and their staff have special certifications to work with children including infants. The practice is a sponsor of the Red Ribbon Run, drug-free graduation parties and numerous children’s athletic teams and church groups in the Lakeland area.

Please contact Patty Smith at (863) 688-8551 Ext. 221 Or E-mail psmith@lakelandchamber.com

Clubs & Organizations

Please contact us no later than August 31, 2010 To ensure your club or Organization is represented.

SummerWerx: Connecting Lakeland teens to Lakeland jobs Lakeland is a community of neighborhoods. This summer, link your company to your community by hiring a local teen.

Putting teens to work: • Advances Lakeland’s future workforce • Shares local opportunities with local teens • Strengthens your community The Neighborhood Association Coalition of Lakeland has banded together to bring qualified youth to

the job market in Lakeland. Together with PolkWorks and the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce, businesses and communities have committed to hire 50 Lakeland teens, giving them a connection to community, employment experience and a sense of purpose.

For more information on the program, or to showcase your company by hiring a local teen, please contact the Neighborhood Association Coalition at SummerWerx@gmail.com.

The Business After Hours tradition continues at Office Furniture Depot

By Joanne Boles

Office Furniture Depot

Office Furniture Depot would like to thank all who attended the March Business After Hours. The tremendous turnout of Chamber members was fantastic.

Guests were greeted as they entered, by David Boles and his staff all wearing red.

Everyone was able to wander through the office furniture showroom to see the variety of office suites & collections available for their future needs. As the

Melanie Brenton accepts a plaque for the Business Aer Hours host, Office Furniture Depot.

guests found their way to the Budget Center loaded with Best Value case goods, pre-owned, and scratch-n-dent items, they were rewarded with delicious entrees and beverages provided by Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille.

to many wonderful eateries & recreational items, a mesh-back task chair, a rolling laptop carrier, a leather executive chair, and the grand finale - One Week Condo Stay on Beautiful South Padres Island, Texas!

The event featured many give-a-ways simply won by Chamber members who deposited their business cards in the basket as they entered. Store Manager, Melanie Brenton, pulled business cards and presented over 25 give-a-ways. During the evening, lucky winners received Lightning hats & t-shirts, gift certificates

Office Furniture Depot is an independent office furniture dealer that represents a variety of furniture manufacturers to meet your budget needs. The business is located at 2440 U.S. Highway 98, North.

For more information on Office Furniture Depot, please call (863) 682-3450 or visit www.officefurnituredepot.com.

Members give their full attention to announcements.

Monthly updates for Lakeland’s young professionals Experience EMERGE

By EMERGE Lakeland Marketing Committee

EMERGE Lakeland was honored to host our elected officials at a breakfast on March 16 at The Lakeland Center.

Mayor Gow Fields and our City and County Commissioners shared insight into local, regional and state issues. They also shared lessons that helped them to succeed and ways EMERGE members can benefit the community. A question and answer period covered a wide variety of issues and even included questions via text message! Thank you to all of our elected officials for spending time with our future community leaders.

EMERGE Lakeland members also participated in a VISTE service project on March 6. The United Way of Central Florida provided breakfast to the volun-

teers and VISTE clients. After fueling up and learning about the services VISTE offers, members then assisted with some odd jobs including cleaning, weeding and visiting with the residents of Cecil Gober Villas.

Upcoming events include Cinco De Mayo with the Chamber at Bonefish Grill on May 5, a healthy living program in June and Pack the Bar in July. Seating for some venues is limited so check our website, EmergeLakeland.com, to reserve your place today!

Kemp Brinson, Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney & Lancaster, PA asks the panel about parking and mass transit plans for the Bartow Courthouse complex.

Did you know EMERGE has 5 committees? A great way to be “in the know” is to get involved with what is going on Continued on Page 15

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 Kathryn Kochsystem, and the O’Malley Chamber Champion of the month is announced.

This month, the Chamber staff would like to recognize Mrs. Kathryn Koch-O’Malley, Vice President with Lanier Upshaw, Inc. 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 MAY IS KATHRYN KOCH-O’MALLEY

No. 8

NEW MEMBERS

e Chamber is proud to welcome 18 new members for March 2010 Through their membership in the Chamber, businesses invest in themselves and their community. We urge you to 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!

All American Fire & Safety, Inc.

8240 US Hwy 98 N Lakeland, FL 33809-5326 (863) 838-5573 Fax: (863) 937-8833 Fire Extinguisher Sales/Service Chris Porche

AmCorp Management

4017 Whistlewood Circle Lakeland, FL 33811-3057 (863) 709-9777

www.amcorpmanagement.com/jstevens

Business Consultants Joseph Stevens

American Solar Energy LLC

5109 Meadows End Lakeland, FL 33810-6923 (863) 859-7800 Fax: (863) 816-5426

www.therealsolarman.com Solar Energy Contractor Debra Crawford

Comfort Cleaning

PO Box 646 Lakeland, FL 33802-0646 (863) 838-7479 Fax: (863) 937-4819 Cleaning-Commercial-Residential-New Const.

Lakeisha Williams

DEX Imaging, Inc.

2627 Trinity Circle Winter Haven, FL 33881-1155 (863) 837-8277

www.deximaging.com Copiers/Printers Trina Anderson

East Coast Fire Protection, AFLSA Company

Gregg W Hooth, P.A.

3308 Cleveland Heights Blvd Lakeland, FL 33803-4717 (863) 667-8027 Fax: (863) 701-2101 Attorneys Gregg W. Hooth

Hurry Joey

812 E Main St Lakeland, FL 33801-5127 (863) 683-4844 Restaurants Panithan Pananchai

Integral Quality Care

4630 Woodland Corp Blvd Tampa, FL 33614-2429 (813) 775-0158

www.integralqualitycare.com

Health Care Services - Non Clinical Glenn Polansky

Kazbor's Grille

1535 US Highway 98 S Lakeland, FL 33801-6551 (863) 686-3000 Fax: (863) 688-0500

www.kazborsgrille.com Restaurants Jay & Tina McVay

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union/Crystal Lake 1817 Crystal Lake Drive Lakeland, FL 33801-5954 (863) 904-6939 Fax: (863) 904-6928

www.midflorida.com Credit Unions Annette McCoy

Pearle Vision of Lakeland

2800 Old Lake Mary Rd Sanford, FL 32771-4178 (407) 688-1949 Fax: (407) 688-4393

1371 Town Center Dr Lakeland, FL 33803-7964 (863) 413-0200 Fax: (863) 413-0227

Fire Sprinkler & Alarm Systems Tom Ackerman

Optometrists - OD Michael G. Plumb, ABO,NCLE

5725 New Tampa Hwy Lakeland, FL 33815-3142 (863) 682-6150 Fax: (863) 682-6195

910 E Memorial Blvd Lakeland, FL 33801-1920 (863) 683-0477 Fax: (863) 683-0366

Herb Processing Scott Krajcir

Hotels/Suites George D'Aigle Jim Shirkey

www.flsamerica.com

www.pearlevision.com

Herb Thyme Farms, Inc.

Regal Grand Lakeside Inn & Suites

www.herbthyme.com

www.regalgrandlakeside.com

No. 10

Results Weight Loss

101 W Main St, Ste 140 Lakeland, FL 33815-1546 (888) 717-9726 Fax: (863) 680-1940

www.resultsweightloss.com Weight Loss & Wellness Stephanie Gordeladze

Rimage Designs LLC

124 Seven Oaks Dri Mulberry, FL 33860-6671 (863) 660-9408 Fax: (863) 248-2560

www.rimagedesigns.com

Web Site Design/Development Rupal Shah

SEMCO Construction, Inc. 205 Century Blvd Bartow, FL 33830-7705 (863) 533-7193 Fax: (863) 533-3376

www.semcoconstruction.com General Contractors Carl E Lock, Jr. Jennifer Sturgis

TriVeritas, LLC

PO Box 6254 Lakeland, FL 33807-6254 (863) 647-5815 Real Estate-Commercial/Industrial David Baker Mark Hulbert

Urban Trust Bank

3501 S Florida Ave Lakeland, FL 33803-4860 (863) 904-4480 Fax: (863) 646-4510

www.urbantrustbank.com Banks Rick Massiah

SUMMER

ENRICHMENT

PROGRAMS t $BNQ 3&"%:!

Rising and Repeating Kindergarten students Lakeland: July 5th – July 30th Ft.Meade: June 14th – July 9th Lake Wales: June 14h – July 9th

t &MFNFOUBSZ 4VNNFS &OSJDINFOU June 14th-July 8th

t .JEEMF 4DIPPM

4VNNFS 4DIPPM June 21st – July 29th

t )JHI 4DIPPM

$PVSTFT GPS $SFEJU June 14th – August 2nd …and so much more

863.688.9477 www.lrcpolk.com No. 12

MARCH TOURISM INQUIRIES

During the month of March, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds of

individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses and

the Lakeland community.

Walk-in Visitors..................................432 Relocation Response Mailings................9 Relocation Response (Walk In) ............35 Accommodations...................................0

Winter Accommodations .......................0 Visitor Information Mailings .................10 Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries .............131

MARK YOUR CALENDAR EVENTS

Wednesday, May 5

EMERGE Lakeland Luncheon, noon Bonefish Grill, 225 W Pipkin Rd

Friday, May 7

Leadership Lakeland XXVIII Applications Due, 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, May 13

Lunch n’Learn, 11:45 a.m.

Using the Internet to Market, Lakeland Chamber Briefing Room Leadership Lakeland XXVII Graduation, 6:00 p.m.

Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

Thursday, May 20

Legislative Wrap-Up Breakfast, 7:00 a.m.

Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m.

Lakeland Flying Tigers/Lakeland Electric Joker Marchant Stadium, 2301 Lakeland Hills Blvd.

MEETINGS

Monday, May 3

Lakeland Area Chamber Foundation Board of Directors Meeting, 4:00 p.m.

Thursday, May 6

Leadership Lakeland XXVII Communications/Arts & Culture Day

Monday, May 10

Small Business of the Month Committee Meeting, 11:45 a.m.

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

Wednesday, May 12

Government Affairs Committee Meeting, 8:00 a.m.

BusinessVoice, 9:00 a.m.

Wednesday, May 19

Executive Committee Meeting, 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, May 26

Board of Directors Meeting, Noon Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

Florida Southern College to build on Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy

By Sandra Dimsdale Horan Florida Southern College

Building the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Tourism and Education Center is like “picking up a torch that was dropped long ago, hoping to rekindle its flame,” the College’s restoration architect said.

The college community joined with local dignitaries to celebrate at the site of the future home of the Tourism and Education Center, which will be built using plans for a Usonian house that Mr. Wright created as part of the campus master plan but which was never built. Mr. Wright designed 18 structures for the campus, 12 of which were built between 1939 and 1958.

“Today we begin a journey to extend Mr. Wright’s legacy and complete one of his magnificent designs for our campus, the Usonian House,” said Dr. Anne Kerr, president of FSC. “The Usonian House at Florida Southern College will have added international significance, as it will be the first Wright structure since 1966 constructed for the original client on the original site.”

e college community joined with local dignitaries to celebrate at the site of the future home of the Tourism and Education Center.

architecture. By building this project, we resurrect his hope for our generation and those yet to come.”

said. “Just as any act of building is an act of faith, Mr. Wright hoped his generation would follow his lead and create a humane

Mr. Wright’s Usonian houses were intended to be distinctly American style houses that were affordable for the middle class. “Usonian” is an acronym for United States of North American.

The College welcomes more than 30,000 visitors a year to tour the Frank Lloyd Wright buildings and anticipates that number will exceed 100,000 visitors by 2014. The Tourism and Education Center will provide a dedicated space for an introductory film on the history of Mr. Wright’s career and 20-year relationship with FSC; a gift shop; a tourism kiosk with information on other Polk County attractions; exhibitions and conferences; and docent-led, audio, and self-guided tours.

Restoration architect Jeff Baker of Mesick Cohen Wilson Baker Architects in Albany, N.Y., said many of Mr. Wright’s ideas have persisted, and our homes and public buildings are better for it. “However, much of what he taught us has now faded or has been forgotten altogether,” he No. 14

He added, “It has become increasingly clear that a mind like Wright’s emerges from the sea of humanity perhaps once in 500 years, and his work, both built and un-built, still has much to teach us. Many more lessons lay slumbering deep within his archives, waiting to enlighten and inspire the living and the unborn.”

RENEWALS

Common Grounds

A taste of local business one cup at at time

By Tim Hutchins

20+ Years Renewals

Florida Fluid System Technologies

If you were to spend a day at Swagelok Central Florida (d/b/a Florida Fluid System Technologies, Inc.), you would find a veritable smorgasbord of ‘flavor’! I’m talking about the rich diversity of people who make it happen every day for us – helping our customers find “value beyond the expected” in fluid system products and assemblies – and also the daily variety of industries and applications we encounter.

Of the twelve individuals who typically work in the office here in Mulberry, only four of us are native Floridians! Our President, Hal, is a Navy veteran who grew up in the South Florida area and the Keys. We also have folks from Washington D.C., New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Oregon. Additionally, our bilingual Service Team Leader Zaida is from the country of Panama!

You might be curious about the types of industries in which we’re involved. We serve many industries, which is what makes every day exciting and different here! For example: Think about what you did when you awoke this morning. You probably turned on the lights (power generation). Then you went to the kitchen to make coffee or pour a tall glass of orange juice (citrus). Do you take your coffee with milk or half and half (dairy)? Maybe you like to sweeten it up a bit (sugar)! You may have powered up your PC, laptop, or smartphone to check the news or your e-mail (semiconductor) – or maybe you’re more traditional, and you still like to walk out to the driveway to grab the newspaper (pulp & paper). After cooking breakfast (food processing) on your stove (natural gas) maybe you went for a swim in the pool (chemical) or hopped in a warm shower (water treatment)! On your way to work, did you have to stop and fill up the car (oil & gas)?

You can see why we do what we do, and why we love working here at Swagelok Central Florida (or FFST): Diversity in our people, and diversity in our work!

EMERGE behind the scenes. Opportunities are available to serve on the events, marketing, membership, technology or volunteer committees.

Visit EmergeLakeland.com to learn more about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities and development and social out-

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

Continued om Page 6

ings. You can also follow EMERGE on Twitter @emergelakeland, join the EMERGE Lakeland Group on Facebook or click on the EMERGE logo on LakelandChamber.com to connect with us.

Get involved and join EMERGE Lakeland today!

1940 – 70 Years Lamar Outdoor Advertising JBT Food Tech 1962 – 48 Years Florida Rock Industries, Inc. 1970 – 40 Years Lohr Enterprises 1974 – 36 Years Gator Realty of Polk GrayRobinson, P.A. 1977 – 33 Years Stanley Steemer Carpet Cleaner 1978 – 32 Years Anthony's Health Hut & Restaurant 1979 – 31 Years Lakeland Association of Realtors 1980 – 30 Years Morgan Stanley Smith Barney Executive Cleaners & Launderers Miriam South Corporation 1981 – 29 Years Turfcare Unlimited 1982 – 28 Years Hudson Pump & Equipment Sclafani Williams Court Reporters, Inc. 1983 – 27 Years Lakeland Regional Medical Center 1984 – 26 Years The Parlour Inc. of Lakeland Thorpe Heating & Cooling, Inc. Texas Cattle Company 1986 – 24 Years Jack's Insurance Agency, Inc. Dale Gardner Jacobs, PA Grant's Auto, Inc. Pepperidge Farm, Incorporated Deli Delicacies, Inc. 1987 – 23 Years Williford Flooring Company, Inc. The Hooks Group 1988 – 22 Years LeMans Apartment Suites Junior League of Greater Lakeland Eye Express 1989 – 21 Years Cheatwood Chiropractic Offices, P.A. 1990 – 20 Years Sir Speedy Printing Consulate Health Care

15-Year Renewals

Your Rental Connection, Inc.

10-Year Renewals

Hair Razors Salon, Inc. Lighthouse Ministries, Inc. Consulate Health Care of Lakeland Suburban Extended Stay Hotel The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Taylor's Alterations e April 16 Breakfast hosted County & City Commissioners.

Mayor Gow Fields responds to a question while Commissioners Howard Wiggs and Don Selvage look on.

5-Year Renewals

The Dumpster Company, LLC Pilgrim Associates Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida COMPUMEND, Inc.

MAY MEMBERS ON THE MOVE

Henkelman Construction, Inc.

Proud to announce the addition of Arthur “Art” Coleman. Art holds a degree in Construction Management from Bristol University and brings to the table over seventeen years of commercial construction experience. He is currently serving as Field Superintendent for the Kathleen Senior High School Master Plan project. His on-site, hands-on capabilities are already proving to be a strong asset to our Construction Management team.

Polk State College

Jean Reynolds, Professor of English at Polk State College, has been named to the Editorial Board for Shaw: The Annual for Shaw Studies, a peer-reviewed journal that focuses on the writings of British playwright George Bernard Shaw.

ASC geosciences, inc.

The Florida Department of Transportation, District Two, has extended ASC geosciences’ contract for the Gainesville Residency CCEI projects. ASC geoscience, inc. has held this contract for more than five years, and has served on it in some capacity for more than 15 years.

ASC is pleased to announce that Jason Alligood, PE has joined the firm’s Lakeland office as project engineer. Mr. Alligood is responsible for geotechnical and materials testing projects and geotechnical analysis throughout Central Florida.

Alliance for Independence

Pleased to announce the promotion of Michelle Van Sickle to Program Specialist.

As Program Specialist, Michelle works one on one with the individuals served at AFI to create a plan of action for personal goals, called an Implementation Plan (IP), advocates for the rights of these individuals and ensures that all individuals are receiving the skills training they need to successfully accomplish their goals.

Perpetual Technology Solutions

Connie Nickerson and Gina Monaghan attended the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) 2010 National Collegiate Conference in St. Louis, MO on behalf of the Polk County AITP Chapter which will be hosting the 2011 Conference in Florida. AITP is the professional association comprised of career minded individuals who seek to expand their potential. The organization seeks to provide avenues for all their members to be teachers as well as students and to make contacts with other members in the IS field, all in an effort to become more marketable in rapidly changing, technological careers.

No. 16

CPS Investment Advisors

Chas P. Smith, CPA/PFS was the keynote speaker at the 4th Annual Economic Forecast and Stock Market Update for CPS Investment Advisors. Dr. Claus te Wildt, Vice President of Fidelity Investments Research, was the second speaker. Over 100 investors were in attendance at the Lakeland Yacht & Country Club.

The Lakeland Chamber prints business announcements each month as space permits. Please mail your announcements to the Chamber or e-mail: membersonthemove@LakelandChamber.com

Southern Homes of Polk County, Inc.

Proudly welcomes Joe O’Neil as a New Home Specialist. Joe has many years of experience in sales and particularly in the mortgage industry, as well as in construction as a superintendent for a large custom builder. Joe will be at Country Club Trails and Shores of Lake Sears.

Florida Southern College

Won two major awards and FSC student peer educators presented several workshops at a regional conference sponsored by The BACCHUS Network. The BACCHUS Network is a nonprofit organization that promotes student- and young adult-based, campus and community-wide leadership on health and safety issues.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate, LLC

Dean Saunders, ALC, real estate broker, and owner of Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate in Lakeland, FL, joins the Coldwell Banker Commercial® Bronze Level Circle of Distinction based on transaction revenue for 2009. The Circle of Distinction is an honor bestowed upon the top ranking producers among Coldwell Banker Commercial® professionals.

CivilSurv Design Group, Inc.

Is the successor and continuation of the Lakeland and Stuart Divisions of Keith and Schnars, P.A. that were established in 1980. Our Tradition of Innovative Engineering is provided from modern state-of-the-art offices in Lakeland, Port St. Lucie, Sebring and Bradenton (opening in Spring 2010). Our clientele includes City and County governments, State agencies, utility companies, commercial and industrial firms, private developers, architects, attorneys and contractors.

Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney & Lancaster, P.A.

Michael J. Kincart has recently joined the law firm of Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney & Lancaster, P.A. Michael graduated from University of Florida in December, 2005 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Finance and graduated cum laude with a Juris Doctor from Stetson University College of Law in December, 2009.

Michael recently sat for the Bar and is expecting results in April, 2010.

Sessums & Sessums, PA

Mark A. Sessums, Esq. has achieved an AV Rating from Martindale-Hubbell. An AV rating is the highest rating available. The rating was obtained after a peer review of lawyers in the Central Florida Area. The Martindale-Hubbell® Peer Review Ratings help evaluate an attorney’s performance and serve as an objective indicator that a lawyer has the highest ethical standards and professional ability.

Correction: Central Florida Develop-

ment Council (CFDC) and Polk County Tourism and Sports Marketing (PCTSM) New address is 2701 Lake Myrtle Park Road, Auburndale, FL 33823 CFDC Phone: (863) 551-4700 and Fax: (863) 551-4739 and PCTSM Phone: (863) 551-4750 and Fax: (863) 551-4740

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

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

4729 US Highway 98 South, Suite 104 • Lakeland, FL 33812 (863) 594-1113 • www.centralfloridamediationgroup.com

Central Florida Mediation Group, LLC

PO Box 3393 • Lakeland, FL 33802 (863) 899-5337

Brown & Associates

815 Creative Drive • Lakeland, FL 33813 (863) 687-7446 • www.signaramalakeland.com

Sign-A-Rama

5101 Highway 98 South • Lakeland, FL 33812 (863) 644-2306 • www.wachovia.com

Arbor Oaks of Lakeland Hills

Agape Food Bank/Catholic Charities of Central Florida

Wachovia Bank

4141 Lakeland Hills Blvd • Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 687-0101 • www.arboroakslakelandhills.com

625 McCue Road, Ste 2 • Lakeland, FL 33815 www.cflcc.org

RIBBON CUTTING THANK YOU

Special thanks to Mayor Gow Fields, Commissioner Howard Wiggs and all the Board Members and Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies a special event.

No. 18

2010 North With The Tigers Goes International!

Detroit Tigers vs. Toronto Blue Jays in TORONTO! August 27-29, 2010 (with some additional options!)

Enjoy some great baseball action between two of Florida’s long running Spring Training relationships—Lakeland’s Detroit Tigers and Dunedin’s Toronto Blue Jays.

See the insert for specific information or contact Jackie Johnson at jackiej@lakelandchamber.com.

$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

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

THURSDAY, MAY 20 • 5:30 TO 7:30 P.M.

PERMIT # 31 LAKELAND FLORIDA

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS/LAKELAND ELECTRIC JOKER MARCHANT STADIUM 2301 LAKELAND HILLS BLVD