May 2014 Forum for Business

MAY 2014 | VOL. XXIII, NO. 5

BUY LAKELAND. IT MAKES GOOD CENTS!

FORUM FOR BUSINESS LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

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CH A M BER STAFF K AT H L E E N L . M U N S O N President

KMUNSON@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

BARBARA BENNETT Executive Assistant

BBENNETT@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

SARAH BREED

Administrative Assistant, Member Relations | Public Affairs

SBREED@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

S A L LY C H A P M A N

Vice President, Finance & Administration

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY TIMOTHY B. JACKSON | CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD NUJAK COMPANIES

K AT H L E E N L . M U N S O N | P U B L I S H E R LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SCHAPMAN@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

C A R O LY N J A C K S O N

Senior Vice President, Member Relations

CJACKSON@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

JACQUELINE L. JOHNSON

Senior Vice President, Convention & Visitors Bureau

JACKIEJ@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

AMY S. WIGGINS | EDITOR LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

N I C E B R A N D I N G A G E N C Y | C R E AT I V E D I R E C T I O N , P R O D U C T I O N & P H O T O G R A P H Y WWW.BRANDNICELY.COM

K AT I E M C B R I D E Membership Consultant

KMCBRIDE@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

NIKKI OAKLEY

Membership Account Executive

NOAKLEY@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

CHAMBER

NEXT Learn what’s NEXT for maximizing your membership

TERRY OTTINGER

Vice President, Membership Development

TOTTINGER@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

RICH ROY

Vice President, Public Affairs

RROY@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

KARA SIMM

Administrative Assistant, Membership Development | Communications

KSIMM@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

Tuesday, May 6 | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Grow Financial Federal Credit Union 2645 S Florida Ave

PAT T Y S M I T H

Administrative Assistant, Convention & Visitors Bureau

PSMITH@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

AMY WIGGINS

Vice President, Communications

AWIGGINS@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

35 LAKE MORTON DRIVE PO BOX 3607 LAKELAND, FL 33802-3607 (863) 688-8551 LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

No Charge for Members Seating is Limited, Please RSVP at LakelandChamber.com 2 | FORUM FOR BUSINESS

© 2014 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.

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exper i e nc e e me r g e

JESSICA SLAYDON

EMERGE MARKETING COMMITTEE

] CONNECT EMERGELakeland.com

On April 8, EMERGE members gathered at Two Men and a Truck to network and bring donations for Movers for Moms. Movers for Moms is an initiative of Two Men and a Truck during the months of April and May that collect items for victims of domestic violence for Mother’s Day. All of the donations stay local and are delivered to the domestic violence shelters of Peace River Center.

“Participants in our programs come to us with only the clothes on their backs, or a garbage bag full of the belongings of themselves and their children.” said Sherrie Schwab, Director of Victim Services for Peace River

Center. “Through these generous donations they are able to begin rebuilding the things that will help them move forward successfully into the future, free from violence.”

According to the Domestic Violence Resource Center one in every four women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime and an estimated 1.3 million women are victims of physical assault by an intimate partner each year.

EMERGE provides opportunities for young professionals to get “plugged in” to our community. This event blended together two of our missions, engaging with other young professionals and giving

back to those in need.

Attendees brought more than 200 items for the cause to the event.

Please join us May 13 as we host eight community leaders who have made it a priority to give back to their community by serving on the Lakeland Chamber’s board of directors and executive committee.

These leaders will share their thoughts, experiences and insights regarding their personal connection with the Chamber and discuss how young professionals can grow professionally through various opportunities with the Chamber. For more information, please visit EMERGELakeland.com

FOR A LIST OF DROP OFF LOCATIONS FOR MOVERS FOR MOMS PLEASE VISIT THE CHAMBERS BLOG OR CALL (863) 646-6683.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF FIRM WITH ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

Just as you have a choice in selecting a CPA firm, CPAs have a choice in selecting the firm they work for. At C/F/R, our professionals are highly skilled accountants and business advisors who could undoubtedly climb the corporate ladder at any national firm, but have instead opted to work here. Why? Because they want to make a difference. We know our clients on a personal level, take pride in helping them achieve their goals and contribute to our local community. The C/F/R Polk County team is dedicated to companies large and small and brings a world of resources through our Alliance with BDO USA, LLP. At C/F/R we’re a part of something, and that something is your success.

The largest accounting firm local to Polk County 4 | FORUM FOR BUSINESS

Lakeland Office 863-937-9520

Winter Haven Office 863-299-5638

Tampa Office Orlando Office 813-321-6869 407-841-6930 www.cfrcpa.com

smal l b u s i n e s s e s : t h e y ’re a big d e a l

ELIZABETH GIFFORD CHAMBER INTERN Southeastern University

According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses have generated more than 65% of the new net jobs since 1995.

Although small businesses may not generate as much profit as a Fortune 500 company, the numerous ways in which they give back to their communities make up for it and even serve as the “backbone” of larger companies. A small business may live up to its name in terms of staff numbers, but when it comes to impact on the community, they are proven to be… a big deal.

Recently, one “niche” company in Central Florida showed how a small business can truly play an important role in serving the community. FITniche is a specialty running store that has been serving walkers and runners of central Florida for more than seven years. Since their policy allows customers to test out their shoes for up to 15 days after purchase, they are sometimes left with barely worn sneakers that cannot be resold.

FITniche found a creative solution to this: on March 29, more than 300 pairs of gently used shoes were donated to participants of the Special Olympics held at the University of South Florida. Special Olympics athletes received custom fittings by FITniche

staff to ensure that they got the pair that was just right for them.

“The shoes are practically new and still have lots of life left in them,” said FITniche owner Rich Wills, who also is a Special Olympics coach for athletes representing Alliance for Independence in Lakeland. “We felt like this was a win-win.”

This is not the first time FITniche has given back to the community; they have also partnered with Lighthouse Ministries to provide shoes to the homeless population.

Not only do small businesses give back to the community in tangible ways, but they also stimulate economic growth in ways that may not be as obvious but are perhaps even more powerful. Budding small businesses engage creativity and bring innovation to their surrounding areas. They encourage entrepreneurship, and

as a result lend way to unique products and services.

A recent article in Forbes, “Why Small Businesses Grow In Clusters,” stated, “As entrepreneurs build businesses that enable other small businesses, the volume of new business creation will grow, and those new small businesses will cluster around the cities that offer the warmest welcomes.”

There are just some things you find in a local shop that you won’t find from a large

chain or manufacturer.

Small businesses give a community character; they provide a unique branding and closeness that draws in more people. According to Stacy Mitchell, a senior researcher and writer at the Institute for Local SelfReliance, “To run one’s errands in places that encourage lingering and conversation, where economic exchange is embedded in human relationships, is to experience the place where you live in a meaningful way. No

wonder this leads to more engaged and resilient communities.”

The impact that small businesses have on the economy is unprecedented; they challenge, stimulate, and innovate. As you contribute to their success by purchasing their services and products, they then give back to the community, and so the cycle continues. Small businesses focus on the specific needs of the people; they are not just companies, they are the heart of a community.

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Leade r s hip L a k e l a n d A lum n i A ssociat ion

WHAT DO DEAN BORING, JOE P. RUTHVEN, AND BUDDY FLETCHER ALL HAVE IN COMMON?

They are all owners of businesses that have been in the Lakeland community for more than 50 years and active members or supporters of the Leadership Lakeland Alumni Association.

Each has his own unique business story to share, but all contribute their successes to customer satisfaction and community service.

] CONNECT LeadershipLakeland Alum.com

Frank Myers, Dean Boring’s grandfather founded Lakeland Typewriter & Supply Co. in 1924. Ninety years later, Boring Business Solutions does more than sell technology to our

community; they pride themselves in giving back. It all started with manual typewriters, adding machines and then moved into electric typewriters and calculators. Now it is printers, copiers and scanners along with Managed Network Services. As a locally owned and operated business, Boring Business Solutions does whatever is necessary to resolve a customer’s issue.

Since 1924, they have supported this community through many civic organizations and charities. Along with supporting LRMC Foundation, Watson Clinic Foundation, Polk County Sheriff ’s Office, Boring Business Solutions donated a $30,000 office at FSC in the Humanities building, and is currently endowing a $10,000 scholarship for high school students through Polk State College. Dean was the youngest person in the nation to join a SERTOMA Club served as President and was named Sertoman of the Year. He is a member of Leadership Lakeland

Class 2 and served as president of the alumni association in 1990.

Joe P. Ruthven began his family business in Lakeland in 1957 when he opened OK Tire Stores on Memorial Blvd. In the late 1970s, Ruthven sold his tire business and became a real estate developer as Joe P. Ruthven Investments.

His primary focus soon turned to warehouse construction and leasing in Lakeland and Polk County. The name changed to The Ruthvens as sons Greg and Joe L, and his nephew, Matt, joined the growing family business. Over time, the business has developed over 3 million square feet of buildings in Lakeland. A big driver for the success of this business is the personal service given to clients. The Ruthvens’ goal has always been to help the client succeed as each grows and expands their business. Community involvement is important to the Ruthven family. They have served on and/ or led boards such as Lakeland Regional Medical Center, Polk Museum of Art,

Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, Florida Southern College, Central Florida Development Council, United Way, and Central Florida Speech & Hearing Center to name a few. Joe L., Greg and Matt are all alumni of the Leadership Lakeland program. Greg was its president in 1989, Matt has served on the board, and Joe L. is currently representing class 20 as a board member.

Ralph “Buddy” Fletcher started his career in printing by taking Diversified Corporate Training at Lakeland High School.

After starting a family and working one full-time job, Buddy decided to take on another task - setting up a printing business in his garage. By 1962, he was working full time selling, producing, collecting and delivering his work. Buddy found his gift in selling because he felt it was a real accomplishment to win not only a customer, but a friend.

To him, it was more important to sell a relationship instead of a job. Fletcher

Printing Company was incorporated in 1963 with seven locations in Lakeland, Winter Haven and Bartow.

Buddy was the first to put in satellite shops and drive-up windows.

From being President of United Way of Greater Lakeland to serving on the board at LVIM, Buddy’s service to the community continues. Buddy received the Jere Annis Award in 2001 by the Leadership Lakeland Alumni Association for his impact on the Lakeland community.

Small business owners are a valuable commodity in the Lakeland community, and it is due to the leadership skills and efforts of small business owners and alumni from the Leadership Lakeland program that our community benefits.

Thank you Dean, Joe P., Joe L., Greg, Matt, and Buddy for starting and continuing your locally owned and operated businesses.

Thank you for your commitment to the Lakeland community.

Although the names may change, may your businesses thrive for another 50 years.

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Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners.

During the week, the Small Business Administration will honor top entrepreneurs as well as the legislators, lenders, contractors and partner organizations.

Locally, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce and our partners at Florida SBDC at USF, Central Florida SCORE, Polk County’s Small Business Assistance Center and the City of Lakeland will present #SmallBizCan on May 13.

More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year, proving that #SmallBizCan! The Chamber’s #SmallBizCan event welcomes budding entrepreneurs as well as seasoned business owners to a celebration of small business ingenuity, determination and continued success.

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KEYNOTE PRESENTATION

FIVE LESSONS I’VE LEARNED AS AN ENTREPRENEUR TODD BAYLIS , President Cipher Integrations

Following Todd’s presentation, our popular “Ask-the-Experts” session returns with opportunities for 10-minute consultations with CPAs, HR professionals, attorneys, marketing and public relations professionals and many more!

LIZ ANTAYA Insurance OMS Group TODD BAYLIS IT/Network Cipher Integrations BILL DORMAN Commercial Property Insurance Lanier Upshaw

2013 SCOTT LINDER SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Todd is President and a founder of Qgiv, a Lakeland based online giving platform which enables organizations throughout the country to quickly, securely and easily receive online, contextual and peer to peer donations, as well as to effectively accept event registrations.

Additionally, he is President of Cipher, a managed network services and software development provider based in Central Florida.

He earned his MS in IT Management, with highest distinction, from Carnegie Mellon University, and received his BS in Computer and Information Sciences, summa cum laude, from Florida State University. He holds a large and broad array of industry certifications including a CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Administrator), and a Microsoft Certified Network Engineer 2003 + Security (MCSE + Security). In January 2010, Todd was named by The Ledger as one of 20 young professionals to watch under the age of 40 and was also named a Polk County Emerging Leader in 2011.

He currently serves as Treasurer for the Lakeland Area Economic Development Council, as a Steering Committee member and Past Treasurer for EMERGE Lakeland, and as a Director for the Imperial Symphony Orchestra.

He has previously served as a Director for the United Way of Central Florida, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce, Camp Fire USA Sunshine Council (Past President), and as a past Steering Committee Member of Lakeland Vision. He is a graduate of Leadership Lakeland Class XXV.

JASON HOLM Lending SunTrust Bank JENNIFER KISKO Patent Attorney GrayRobinson, PA MARSHA LEAP HR/Leadership Coaching Leap Ahead Professional Development ASHLEY LINK Advertising/Marketing CNP – Clark Nikdel Powell JOE MCLEOD Public Relations, Sales Training McLeod Communications KEVIN ST. JOHN Payroll Paychex RALPH SCHOFIELD Labor Law Attorney Clark Campbell Lancaster & Munson VICTOR TROIANO Corporate and Business Law Troiano & Roberts, P.A. SANDY WOTRING Human Resources Mid-Florida SHRM FORUM FOR BUSINESS | 9

A M O N T H LY

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION

DIGITAL COPIERS ARE COMPUTERS

Does your company keep sensitive data — Social Security numbers, credit reports, account numbers, health records, or business secrets?

If so, then you’ve probably instituted safeguards to protect that information, whether it’s stored in computers or on paper. That’s not only good business, but may be required by law.

] CONNECT

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, your information security plans also should cover the digital copiers your company uses.

If the data on your copiers gets into the wrong hands, it could lead to fraud and identity theft.

Business.ftc.gov 10 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S

Commercial copiers have come a long way.

Today’s generation of networked multifunction devices — known as “digital copiers” — are “smart” machines that are used to copy, print, scan, fax and email documents.

Digital copiers require hard disk drives to manage incoming jobs and workloads, and to increase the speed of production. But not every copier on the market is digital: generally, copiers intended for business have hard drives, while copiers intended for personal or home office use do not.

The hard drive in a digital copier stores data about the documents it copies, prints, scans, faxes or emails. If you don’t take steps to protect that data, it can be stolen from the hard drive, either by remote access or by extracting the data once the drive has been removed.

Digital copiers

store different types of information in different ways. For example, photocopied images are more difficult to access directly from the hard drive than documents that are faxed, scanned or printed on the copier.

THE LIFE-CYCLE OF A COPIER Copiers often are leased, returned, and then leased again or sold. It’s important to know how to secure data that may be retained on a copier hard drive, and what to do with a hard drive when you return a leased copier or dispose of one you own.

It’s wise to build in data security for each stage of your digital copier’s lifecycle: when you plan to acquire a device, when you buy or lease,

while you use it, and when you turn it in or dispose of it.

When you buy or lease a copier, evaluate your options for securing the data on the device.

Most manufacturers offer data security features with their copiers, either as standard equipment or as optional addon kits. Typically, these features involve encryption and overwriting.

Encryption is the scrambling of data using a secret code that can be read only by particular software.

Digital copiers that offer encryption encode the data stored on the hard drive so that it cannot be retrieved even if the hard drive is removed from the machine.

Overwriting — also known as file wiping or shredding — changes the values of the bits on the disk that make up a file by overwriting existing data with random characters.

By overwriting the disk space that the file occupied, its traces are removed, and the file can’t be reconstructed as easily.

When you finish using the copier, check

with the manufacturer, dealer, or servicing company for options on securing the hard drive. The company may offer services that will remove the hard drive and return it to you, so you can keep it, dispose of it, or destroy it yourself. Others may overwrite the hard drive for you. Typically, these services involve an additional fee, though you may be able to negotiate for a lower cost if you are leasing or buying a new machine.

One cautionary note about removing a hard drive from a digital copier on your own: hard drives in digital copiers often include required firmware that enables the device to operate. Removing and destroying the hard drive without being able to replace the firmware can render the machine inoperable, which may present problems if you lease the device.

Also, hard drives aren’t always easy to find, and some devices may have more than one. Generally, it is advisable to work with skilled technicians rather than to remove the hard drive on your own.

C ham b e r L u n ch e o n Exami ne s P e r s p e ct i v e Marilyn Crouther, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the U.S. Public Sector Region for HP Enterprise Services, was the keynote speaker for the Power of Perspective Luncheon, held March 27 at The Lakeland Center.

Presented by the Lakeland Area Chamber

of Commerce and GEICO, Crouther shared her life experiences and perspective as an African American woman soaring to the leadership heights of HewlettPackard.

Special thanks to the day’s emcee, Stacy Campbell-Domineck, CareerSource Polk; the

ABOVE LEFT. JoAnna McHugh, CareerSource Polk, won an HP Omni10 tablet from Office Depot #2363.

BELOW. About 300 community members attended the Power of Perspective Luncheon on March 27 at The Lakeland Center.

Polk Museum of Art for donating the beautiful event decorations; Southeastern University vocalists Rachel Robbins and Blair Boak; and Office Depot #2363 for providing the wonderful HP door prize.

The Chamber would like to express its gratitude to the following

sponsors: GEICO, The Lakeland Center, Ledger Media Group, WONN/WPCV/WLKF/ WWRZ Radio, Polk State College, CEMEX, and Skanska USA Building, Inc. Without our sponsors, this event would not have been possible.

ABOVE RIGHT. Keynote speaker Marilyn Crouther, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the U.S. Public Sector Region for HP Enterprise Services, with her sister, Stacy Campbell-Domineck, event emcee and Chief Executive Officer of CareerSource Polk.

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 11

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

THE LIGHTING HUT, INC. MS. DIANNE BISHOP (863) 682-0158 230 N Ingraham Ave Lakeland, FL 33801

] CONNECT www.thelightinghut.com

So, you’re looking for a hard-to-find part for a favorite antique lamp...

Or just the right lamp shade to replace the one the cat knocked over and ripped to shreds... Or you’re designing a new kitchen and want just the right light fixtures for each area... Where should you go? The Lighting Hut, of course.

Established by Dianne Bishop and Bob Millen in 2005, The Lighting Hut is located at 230 N Ingraham Ave just north of Main St. The main building is a large showroom, office, and warehouse. There are places to sit and peruse catalogs, discuss needs and objectives with sales personnel, and

lots of products to browse. There are floor lamps, table lamps, lamp shades, hanging lamps, lighting fixtures, fans, light bulbs, and every kind of lighting accessory you could possibly need.

In addition to the main building, there are two Quonset huts on the property. Walk into the one directly across the parking lot from the main showroom and you will enter into a fantasy world of brilliant chandeliers. Crystal chandeliers shimmer and throw rainbows onto walls and floors.

There are elegant, extravagant chandeliers fit for a large scale formal dining room or entryway,

to playful hanging lamps for the family den, and they cover the whole overhead area of the room. The Lighting Hut truly has it all when it comes to lighting.

They also make light fixtures for customers who are preserving memories. They have made light fixtures out of water skis, books, shoes, model ships, airport taxi lights, fire extinguishers, wagon wheels, figurines, army helmets, toasters, blenders, champagne bottles and more.

Anyone who has ever remodeled or built a house knows that lighting fixtures can make or break the look and feel of the

home. Dianne and her professional staff offer a start to finish service that includes meeting with customers before drywall is installed, physically going to the house to make sure there are no issues, working with the customer to pick out the fixtures, delivering the fixtures and servicing them if there is any problem.

If there is specialty lighting, the reps work with the electricians on site to make sure that all installation goes smoothly. Staff at The Lighting Hut also stays current on all new technology available to the consumer and learned all they could

about LED lighting as soon as it was coming on the market. Dianne knows this is the lighting of the future and can help her clients find the lighting they need to finish their home in an economic and environmentally sound way.

The Lighting Hut is a gem in the Central Florida building supply industry, and one Lakeland is lucky to have. Conveniently located just east of Downtown with plenty of parking and sales representatives who are knowledgeable and eager to please, this is a must see store. Stop in and let them light up your life!

B Y P AT R I C I A H E N D L E R , COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY, CITY OF LAKELAND

SMALL BUSINESS

OF THE MONTH

COMMITTEE MEMBER PATRICIA HENDLER

PRESENTS THE APRIL SMALL BUSINESS OF

THE MONTH AWARD TO DIANNE BISHOP.

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WANT TO KNOW WHY BEING A MEMBER OF THE LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER IS SO BECOMING? READ ON...

CALENDAR

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

NEW MEMBERS

RIBBON CUTTINGS

WRAP-UP THE 2014 LEGISLATIVE SESSION WITH THE LAKELAND CHAMBER

LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP BREAKFAST Hear first-hand from our Legislative Delegation how Polk’s business community fared during session.

Thursday, June 5 | 7:00 a.m.

Lakeland Yacht & Country Club | 929 Lake Hollingsworth Dr Presenting Sponsors

The Florida Legislature convened on March 4, 2014 with a primary focus on two challenging issues: passing a balanced budget and creating a positive environment for businesses in Florida. During that time, legislative leaders worked collectively to craft a sensible, fiscally-sound state budget, increase educational opportunities and reduce burdensome taxes affecting Florida businesses and families.

The Legislative Wrap-Up Breakfast provides members an opportunity to hear a firsthand “wrapup” of session and engage with elected legislators on the outcomes of the past 60 days in Tallahassee.

As decisions are being made related to economic development, education, healthcare, unemployment compensation, and insurance, this opportunity to meet with Polk’s Legislative Delegation becomes increasingly more important each year.

This event is one of the most valuable public affairs tools the Lakeland Chamber provides, linking businesses directly with elected officials.

Take advantage of this opportunity today! Seating is limited and this event will sell out!

Visit WrapUp.LakelandChamber.com or call (863) 688-8551 Ext. 228 or 241 for information and reservations.

®

Silver Sponsors

Florida Strategic Group, LLC | Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. Valencia Hills Health & Rehabilitation Center

Bronze Sponsors

A-C-T Environmental & Infrastructure | Baylis & Company PA CPAs Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic Center L.L.P. | The Mahoney Group, Inc. Southeastern University College of Business and Legal Studies

$30 Chamber members, $35 non-members, $275 Corporate Table Tickets at WrapUp.LakelandChamber.com All delegation members have been invited. Appearances are subject to change.

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 13

may 2014 dates

MON 19 THUR 1

TUES 6

THUR 8 TUES 13

TUESDAY, MAY 6 CHAMBER NEXT

5:30 p.m.

Grow Financial Federal Credit Union 2645 S Florida Ave

THUR 8

11:30 a.m.

Cleveland Heights Golf Course 2900 Buckington Ave

TUESDAY, MAY 13 #SMALLBIZCAN CELEBRATION

MON 12

8:00 a.m.

Honeyman Pavilion Florida Southern College 111 Lake Hollingsworth Dr

WED 14

TUESDAY, MAY 13 EMERGE: FOLLOW THE LEADERS 2014: CHAMBER CHAT

WEDNESDAY, MAY 21 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

THURSDAY, MAY 8 LEADERSHIP LAKELAND, CLOSING RETREAT & GRADUATION

THUR 22

THURSDAY, MAY 22 SCORE ROUND TABLE

THURSDAY, MAY 8 CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE SPRING BUSINESS LUNCHEON

THUR 29

THURSDAY, MAY 29 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14 GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

JUNE 5

THURSDAY, JUNE 5 LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP BREAKFAST

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14 BUSINESS VOICE OF GREATER LAKELAND

JUNE 17

TUESDAY, JUNE 17 EMERGE: LAKELAND ECONOMIC UPDATE FOR YPS

Noon Lakeland Yacht & Country Club

5:30 p.m.

Certified Foundations, Inc. 1306 Banana Rd

4:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m.

Lakeland Chamber 35 Lake Morton Dr

Noon Grasslands Golf & Country Club 1600 Grasslands Blvd

MONDAY, MAY 12 EMERGE LAKELAND STEERING COMMITTEE 3:45 p.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

9:00 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

THURSDAY, MAY 15 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

MONDAY

All Day

WED 21

8:00 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

5:30 p.m.

The Terrace Hotel 329 E Main St

THUR 15

11:45 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

THURSDAY, MAY 1 LEADERSHIP LAKELAND, COMMUNICATIONS ARTS & CULTURE DAY

Closing Retreat: All Day Graduation: 6:00 p.m.

THURSDAY, MAY 8 SCHMOOZE A’PALOOZA

MONDAY, MAY 19 SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS COMMITTEE MEETING

7:00 a.m.

Lakeland Yacht & Country Club

Noon at Catapult Lakeland

THE CHAMBER IS CLOSED ON MAY 26 FOR MEMORIAL DAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY 2

THURSDAY 1

FRIDAY

SAT

SUN

2

3

4

8 LEADERSHIP LAKELAND,

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10

11

15

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17

18

23

24

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30

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LEADERSHIP LAKELAND, COMMUNICATIONS ARTS & CULTURE DAY | ALL DAY

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CLOSING RETREAT ALL DAY SCHMOOZE A’PALOOZA 11:30 A.M. CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLE SPRING BUSINESS LUNCHEON | NOON LEADERSHIP LAKELAND GRADUATION | 6:00 P.M.

CHAMBER NEXT 5:30 P.M.

12 EMERGE LAKELAND STEERING COMMITTEE 3:45 P.M.

19

13 #SMALLBIZCAN CELEBRATION 8:00 A.M.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS 8:00 A.M.

EMERGE: FOLLOW THE LEADERS 2014 : CHAMBER CHAT | 5:30 P.M.

BUSINESS VOICE OF GREATER LAKELAND | 9:00 A.M.

20

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS COMMITTEE MEETING 11:45 A.M.

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21 28 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING | 4:00 P.M.

27

CHAMBER CLOSED FOR MEMORIAL DAY

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28 28

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 P.M.

22 28 SCORE ROUND TABLE 7:30 A.M.

29 BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING | NOON

Ev ent HI G HLI GH T S 01

02

MARCH BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Hosted by Office Furniture Depot, Inc.

01 | Immediate Past Chairman Mark

Wilson (Kimley-Horn & Associates, Inc.) presented the Plaque of Appreciation to Melanie Brenton of Office Furniture Depot, Inc. Thank you for hosting this event 18 years in a row!

02 | Marty Wilkey, Brian Stevens, and

Scott Katz of Fifth Third Bank looked as handsome as ever in their matching business attire!

03

03 | Members smiled for the camera

and enjoyed the networking with each other, browsing the beautiful office furniture and eating the delicious food provided by Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille.

MARCH SCHMOOZE A’PALOOZA Hosted by Buffalo Wild Wings

04 | Members enjoyed lunch and got to

know each other by sharing information about their businesses including Matt Bishop of Edward Jones Investments!

04

05

05 | Once lunch concluded, the power

networking began!

MARCH CHAMBER NEXT

Hosted by Grow Financial Federal Credit Union

06 | This event is held every other month

and gives members the opportunity to ask questions about their membership and what their needs are for their business.

06

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................................................. 425 RELOCATION RESPONSE MAILINGS........................ 4 RELOCATION RESPONSE (WALK IN)...................... 27 ACCOMMODATIONS................................................. 0 WINTER ACCOMMODATIONS.................................. 0 VISITOR INFORMATION MAILINGS........................ 17 VISITOR CENTER E-MAIL INQUIRIES...................... 80

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 15

The Medina Law Group, P.A. Is proud to welcome Stephen W. Lutz, Esq to their team as an associate attorney. Mr. Lutz has been hired to further strengthen the firm’s business of Estate Planning, Trust Administration and Probate.

He also provides the firm an avenue to expand in the areas of Elder Law and Medicaid planning. Mr. Lutz is a graduate of Florida Atlantic University with a B.A. in History and a Cum Laude graduate from Stetson University College of Law with a certificate of concentration in Elder Law. Mr. Lutz is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and serves as a volunteer with the Guardian Ad Litem program.

The Estates at Carpenters

CHAIRMAN ’S CIRCLE Lanier Upshaw, inc.

Is proud to announce that Jeanette Carter, AIS, AINS was recently promoted to Senior Commercial Lines Account Manager.

Alltrust Insurance, Inc. President Karen Brayboy has been appointed to the newly created State Advisory Board of the Florida SBDC Network. The Florida SBDC Network State Advisory Board is responsible for advising, counseling and conferring with the CEO and Network State Director to ensure the interests of small businesses are represented in the Florida SBDC Network’s coordinated efforts and investments in small business development and entrepreneurial support services.

FHS, Inc. Is very proud to announce the celebration of their 20 year anniversary as a single source material handling provider. Beginning with just three employees they have grown to more than 100 team members serving the Southeastern United States with quality products and services including overhead cranes & hoists, conveyors and storage solutions.

Colo5 Chief Operating Officer, Rochelle Bailey Price, has been selected as a finalist for the Women In Business Awards produced by the Women Business Owners of North Florida.

Rockford-Ettco Procunier Announcs the acquisition of Speedycut Tapping Machines, Inc of Port St. Lucie, Florida. The Speedycut brand is now added to the Rockford Drill Head, Ettco Machine Tool, Procunier and Universal Automatic brands enhancing what is already the most complete offering of drilling and tapping solutions in the North America.

16 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S

Is proud to announce the addition of Betsy Bulger as their new Director of Dining Services. Betsy has a BA in Psychology from USF Tampa, and an MBA from the University of Tampa. Her culinary experience includes: owning and operating Gourmet Pizza & Pasta in South Tampa; corporate dining and hospitality services as well as hotel food and beverage experience with Sodexo and Eurest Dining Services as Food & Beverage Director; and, with Student Nutrition Services in Hillsborough County. Betsy joins a wonderful staff dedicated to providing care and services to over 400 residents.

Highland Homes Welcomes new employees: Kathy Moorman, sales counselor at Wind Meadows in Bartow, has more than 30 years of real estate sales experience.

Sheila Stephenson, community sales manager at Ten Oaks in Zephyrhills, is a Florida native with nearly eight years of real estate and new home sales experience.

Boring Andrew Sampson was the recipient of Boring’s “Sales – Top Revenue” award for December, as well as a “Sales – Top Percentage of Quota. ” Ginny Sigle was announced as the Employee of the Quarter and Employee of the Year for 2013.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate Broker/owner Dean Saunders, ALC, CCIM, has been presented with the Florida Land Realtor® of the Year 2013 award by the REALTORS® Land Institute Florida (RLI), an affiliate organization of the National Association of REALTORS®. Members of RLI earn the prestigious Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) designation for the land real estate profession.

Central Florida Speech and Hearing Center Welcomes Debbie Burdett to the Development Department as the Director of Philanthropy. Burdett brings more than 26 years of business development and fundraising experience to the Center.

Also, welcomes Larissa Kelly, M.A., CCC-SLP to the Speech-Language Pathology department. Larissa received her Master of Arts degree from Western Washington University and has also obtained her state license and Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech – Language – Hearing Association.

HAMIC JONES HAMIC & STURWOLD, P.A. Announces that James L. Previte, CPA, has been admitted as a shareholder of the firm. Previte holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from Florida State University and a Master of Accountancy from the University of South Florida. He is currently a candidate for the credential of Certified in Financial Forensics (CFF).

Also, Stephen Hamic of Hamic Jones Hamic & Sturwold, P.A. recently presented Affordable Health Care Act Corporate Tax Compliance Overview at the Florida Association of Wholesale Distributers 2013 Health Care Reform Summit at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida.

Comfort Care Was recently recognized as the #1 franchise in the senior care industry by Entrepreneur Magazine’s Annual Franchise 500 rankings.

Two Men and a Truck Corey Tinsley was awarded January’s Reply Card Master. Tinsley received the most reply cards, the highest marks and 100 percent customer satisfaction.

Mine & Mill Supply Co. After 33 years of service, Wayne Hart will retire as President but maintain his seat on the board, welcoming General Manager & COO Jeff Bedford to lead the new administration. Elected directors and officers for 2014: Leon Handley, President & Chairman of the Board, Director; Robert Tidwell, Executive Vice President & Vice Chairman of the Board, Director; John Eady, Jr., Vice President, Director; Jeffery Bedford, Chief Operating Officer, Director; Charles Fitzgerald, Comptroller & Secretary Treasurer, Director; Richard W. Hart, Director; Jackson Adams, Director.

Sessums Law Group Mark A. Sessums lectured to the approximately 1500-attendee lawyers on the subject of alimony at the annual Florida Bar Family Law Section Certification Review Course in Orlando on February 1, 2014. The Family Law Section of the Florida Bar and the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (AAML) Florida Chapter presented the 2014 marital and family law review course.

THE LAKELAND CHAMBER PRINTS BUSINESS ANNOUNCEMENTS EACH MONTH AS SPACE PERMITS. PLEASE EMAIL ANNOUNCEMENTS TO MOTM@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

Special thanks to Mayor Howard Wiggs, Commissioner Jim Malless, Mayor Pro Tem Keith Merritt, Commissioner Edie Yates, and all the Board Members and Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies special events.

EMILEE’S EVENTS & WEDDING RENTALS, INC. 2222 S COMBEE RD | (863) 899-5626

Lakeland, FL 33801 EMILEESEVENTS.COM

POP-A-LOCK OF POLK COUNTY

SPHERION

4798 S FLORIDA AVE, STE 343 | (863) 647-5625

1925 E EDGEWOOD DR, STE | 102 (863) 667-0800

Lakeland, FL 33813

Lakeland, FL 33803

PALPOLK.COM

SPHERION.COM

Thursday, May 8 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Cleveland Heights Golf Club 2900 Buckingham Ave $25 Members Only Limited Seating

PDQ SOUTH LAKELAND

WENDY’S

4714 S FLORIDA AVE | (863) 512-2516

5740 US HIGHWAY 98 N | (863) 816-8086

Lakeland, FL 33813

Lakeland, FL 33809

EATPDQ.COM

WENDYS.COM

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 17

PARTNERS JC MACHINE, INC.

3620 AIRPORT RD LAKELAND, FL 33811 (863) 450-3195 JCMI-USA.COM JAY CREASY MACHINE SHOPS

BUSINESS BUILDERS BUSINESS BUILDERS

ACU-TEMP 205 COMPLEX DR LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 682-3803 ACU-TEMP.COM JUSTIN GENGLER AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING

BEDROCK WINGS OF LAKELAND 2064 E EDGEWOOD DR LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 698-7923 AMY SKINNER RESTAURANTS

CHICK-FIL-A

LAKELAND SQUARE 3800 US HIGHWAY 98 N, STE 692 LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 851-7179 CHICK-FIL-A.COM JUSTIN KRANITZ RESTAURANTS

FLORIDA DISTRIBUTING COMPANY 3865 K VILLE AVE AUBURNDALE, FL 33325 (407) 298-2424 FLORIDADISTRIBUTING.COM KRISTIN KAISER BEER

LIBERTY TAX SERVICE 2944 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 248-6611 LIBERTYTAX.COM CINDY BALLARD TAX SERVICES

CARE PLUS

4925 INDEPENDENCE PKWY, STE 100 TAMPA, FL 33634 (813) 476-9102 CHRIS BELLERSEN INSURANCE

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 Bob Read, Director at LegalShield of Lakeland, for his outstanding attention to Chamber members and attendance at events! Bob is a wonderful asset to the Chamber and to the Lakeland community!

BOB READ

LEGALSHIELD OF LAKELAND Director

Well-Rounded.

You’re in good hands. Wall Titus can provide everything from tax preparation to wealth management. Our comprehensive financial approach gives you the confidence and certainty of knowing we’ve got your finances under control.

18 | | F OF RO U RM U MF OF RO RB U BS U ISNI EN SE S S

20

+

YEARS 1921 | 93 YEARS PICKARD & PICKARD INC. REALTORS

1940 | 74 YEARS

1991 | 23 YEARS CARE ANIMAL CLINIC

1992 | 22 YEARS IMPERIAL TIRE & AUTO SERVICE CENTER, INC. PRESS EXPRESS OF POLK CO., INC.

1993 | 21 YEARS CNP-CLARK/NIKDEL/POWELL

LAMAR OUTDOOR ADVERTISING

1994 | 20 YEARS

LEDGER MEDIA GROUP

BRIDGES OPTICAL

1944 | 70 YEARS

CELEBRATING

GULF COAST BORING AND PIPELINE, INC.

AND 10 MILLION SERVED

NATHAN’S MEN’S STORE WELLS FARGO BANK

1953 | 60 YEARS LAKELAND FUNERAL HOME & MEMORIAL GARDENS

1962 | 52 YEARS FARM CREDIT OF CENTRAL FLORIDA, ACA

1966 | 48 YEARS

10

SCORE mentors have helped more than 10 million Americans on their paths to entrepreneurship. That’s one person every three minutes for the last 50 years!

With 11,160 volunteer mentors in 321 chapters across the nation, SCORE offers free confidential one-on-one mentoring, online coaching and lead educational workshops in local communities, including Lakeland and Polk County.

YEARS BIOLIFE PLASMA SERVICES FLANDERS ELECTRIC MOTOR SERVICE, INC. INTERNATIONAL HOUSE OF PANCAKES

MOMENTIVE SPECIALTY CHEMICALS

1971 | 43 YEARS SANTA FE ANIMAL HOSPITAL

1972 | 42 YEARS SANLAN RV & GOLF RESORT, INC.

1972 | 41 YEARS CLEVELAND HEIGHTS ANIMAL HOSPITAL

5

YEARS

IN 2013, SCORE VOLUNTEERS DONATED 1.1+ MILLION HOURS OF THEIR TIME TO HELP

LEAP AHEAD PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, LLC PLANTZ

FOLSOM CONSTRUCTION, INC.

START UP 38,630 BUSINESSES

IMPERIAL MANOR M.H. TERR. SOUTHERN GLASS PRODUCTS COMPANY, INC.

CREATE 67,319 JOBS

1977 | 37 YEARS AMEC ENVIRONMENTAL & INFRASTRUCTURE, INC.

40,175 CLIENTS INCREASE REVENUES

1978 | 36 YEARS ANTHONY’S HEALTH HUT & RESTAURANT SUN ‘N FUN, INC.

MENTOR AND TRAIN 124,617 SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS AND ENTREPRENEURS

1979 | 35 YEARS DETROIT TIGERS | LAKELAND FLYING TIGERS

1983 | 31 YEARS IMPERIAL FLORIDA SALES CO.

1984 | 30 YEARS THE FAMILY DENTIST/DR. MARIELA K. LUNG

1985 | 29 YEARS FAMILY EYE CENTER SOUTH LLC FLORIDA PRESBYTERIAN HOMES

People-to-People Tour of CUBA October 12-19, 2014

$3,599 from Tampa

1987 | 27 YEARS WILLIFORD FLOORING COMPANY, INC.

1988 | 26 YEARS TOWN & COUNTRY TERMITE & PEST CONTROL, INC. TRI-COUNTY HUMAN SERVICES, INC.

For Details:

Travel.LakelandChamber.com (863) 688-8551 Ext. 228

department of the treasury cuban assets control regulation license no: CT-2013-2299886-1 pending renewal approval

1989 | 25 YEARS SAUNDERS & WILHELM

FO F OR RU UMMF O F OR RB BU US SI NI NE ES S S | | 19

po l k E c onomi c U p dat e

DR. JAMES FARRELL, CFA

FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE

CPS Investment Advisors is proud to underwrite the research and preparation of the Polk Progress report

The markets had a relatively volatile March, with the DJIA and S&P 500 fluctuating in response to the Federal Reserve’s indication that they will continue to taper QE3, but with a watchful eye on the markets. While we have approached the 6.5% unemployment target, with reported rates of 6.5% for December and 7.0% for January, Federal Reserve Chair Yellen, called for a closer look at the true economic condition, which reflect slowly climbing wages, a high number of long-term unemployed people, 7 million part-time workers that would prefer full-time work and a falling labor force participation rate.

Chairwoman Yellen highlighted the labor force participation rate, which has long been expected to fall due to retiring baby boomers, because it

] CONNECT FLSouthern.edu/ PolkProgress 20 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S

is even lower than it should be. The current concern is workers retiring earlier than they had intended, rather than face a challenging job market after an involuntary separation. These retirees may a greater risk of outliving their retirement assets due to fewer years of accumulation and more years of spending, which, in turn, could lead to increased demands on social services.

In Polk County we have a seen our

unemployment rate converge to the national average after pulled away during the recession. While Polk County was slower to pull out of the downturn, it has made up ground in terms of unemployment rate over the last year, with the county reporting rates of 6.8% for December and 7.2% for January. That does not tell the full story, however, as we have seen our labor force shrink, while it has grown at both the state and national levels.

While the improving unemployment numbers look encouraging, many of those no longer unemployed have left the labor market, there are 46% fewer newly employed than previously unemployed persons.

This is in contrast to the improvements at the state and national levels where there are 51% and 40% more newly employed than previously unemployed, respectively.

While most signs

are pointing towards recovery, we still appear to be a bit fragile, given that there are many longterm unemployed persons and wages have stagnated for the middle-class.

The Federal Reserve will keep an eye on many indicators and continue to “move the goalpost” as the headline unemployment numbers rarely tell the full story and further analysis is called for before we can declare ourselves recovered.

COMPARISON OF LOCAL, STATE AND NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT CHARACTERISTICS

LABOR FORCE NUMBER EMPLOYED NUMBER UNEMPLOYED

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

POLK COUNTY

FLORIDA

U.S.

LAKELAND

2013

269,168

9,432,291

155,389,000

42,658

WINTER HAVEN 13,420

2012

271,538

9,368,500

154,975,000

43,027

13,521 -0.74%

% CHANGE

-0.87%

0.68%

0.27%

-0.86%

2013

247,767

8,749,588

143,929,000

39,521

12,374

2012

244,996

8,561,692

142,469,000

39,079

12,235

% CHANGE

1.13%

2.19%

1.02%

1.13%

1.13%

2013

21,401

682,703

11,460,000

3,137

1,047

2012

26,542

806,808

12,506,000

3,948

1,286

% CHANGE

-19.37%

-15.38%

-8.36%

-20.55%

-18.62%

2013

8.0

7.2

7.4

7.4

7.8

2012

9.8

8.6

8.1

9.2

9.5

-18.88%

-16.28%

-8.64%

-20.02%

-18.07%

% CHANGE

n a c k e e w a One night

E F I L R U O Y E HC ANG

land

u/lake d e r. te s b e w • 9 2 863-687-930

ite 20

Drive, Su r te n e C n w o T 9 147

Webster University educates professionals in the Lakeland area through our accredited master’s degree programs. Classes are taught by academically qualified faculty who are practitioners in their fields. The classes are the right size for learning and the perfect place for networking. Apply today!

For a complete program listing go to webster.edu/lakeland No GRE/GMAT • Classes one night a week Webster University, founded in 1915 with its home campus based in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, is the only Tier 1, private, nonprofit university with campus locations around the world including metropolitan, military, online and corporate, as well as American-style traditional campuses in North America, Europe and Asia.

Be a part of what’s next.

EC-2476 Generic.indd 1

8/13/13 8:33 AM

2014 florida marine raiders schedule

3/29

HOME

4/3

away

4/11 away

4/19 HOME

4/26 HOME

5/3

away

5/9

away

5/17

HOME

5/24 HOME

visit the website at www.marineraiders.com to purchase your season tickets - home games begin at 7:00Pm and are played at THE lakeland center

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 C H R I S P O R C H E | ALL AMERICAN FIRE & SAFETY, INC.

AHJ, ACHA, NFPA, Building Code, Permits, it’s a regular alphabet soup out there. We are here to help you make sense of all of this as a business owner. We work with local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) to solve all of your problems with building fire safety. We try to educate the business owners about the local codes and even provide fire extinguisher training for employees.

Most business owners don’t realize that their fire extinguishers must be inspected by a licensed company annually. Our company will show up every year automatically, so you don’t have to worry about your fire protection being up to date. We use state of the art software and equipment to service your account. Our employees are very friendly and knowledgeable about fire safety - we have more than 61 years of combined fire service experience!

A normal day starts out around 7:30 a.m. with a morning briefing for the day. Then all technicians are sent out into the field to perform their jobs for the day.

I stick around the office for just a bit to pay bills and order parts, but then it’s on the road for me too.

As panicked customers call in, they are dispatched directly to the technician via our state-of-the-art software. It’s human nature to procrastinate, so we get lots of calls on the day before an inspection is scheduled!

The day ends with a debriefing at the office to discuss any customers whose accounts need still need our attention, our schedule for the next day and all the paperwork… the state requires lots of paperwork.

Then, I typically get a text from my wife asking when I’ll be home for dinner. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. No two days are ever the same. That’s what we like about this job. Don’t get burned, call All American Fire & Safety (863) 859-7400.

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

p u bli c pol i cy

RICH ROY

PUBLIC AFFAIRS VICE PRESIDENT

] CONNECT LakelandChamber.com

Lobbyists have been influencing American politics since before their profession even had a name. One of, if not the first, was William Hull, an exRevolutionary War officer tasked by fellow veterans to press legislators on back pay owed to former soldiers.

Beginning in the mid1800s to present day, we’ve recognized these “K Street Operatives” from DC to our own city halls as part of the influencers of business in the modern world.

Today, lobbyists hold more sway than ever. In many cases, they aren’t just spokespeople, they really are members of the congressional family. A recent CNN report noted that 78 members of Congress have federally registered lobbyists as family members. This makes sense, as many lobbyists used to work in the government as elected officials, political appointees, staff or civil servants.

Their experience in government has taught them how the legislative process works and given them access to a large number of decision makers.

As anyone who follows politics knows, it’s always been about influence. Those who have the connections are those who get heard.

So, do you have to hire a lobbyist to make sure your voice is heard?

It takes a lot of time to build the connections inside the beltway that lobbyists have already made. Unless you are willing to spend the time and money

necessary to become a legislative advocacy expert yourself, you are better off hiring someone who already knows the ropes.

In addition to access, lobbyists also provide an understanding of how the legislative process works, who to work with on a project (and who not to work with), if there are other interests competing with your efforts, and when to back off or proceed.

These are valuable considerations when a bill’s passage or defeat hangs in the balance.

Given that lobbyists have an insider’s understanding of how government works and direct access to those in charge of making the decisions, does the average citizen or business even have a voice in public policy anymore?

Thankfully, the answer is yes.

Elected officials have finally taken note of the frustration that average citizens share about the influence of government insiders. With the help of our Florida Chamber partners in Tallahassee, we have the ability to have our voices heard collectively.

Greg Blose, Grassroots Manager with the Florida Chamber, and staff work diligently to keep chambers across the state informed of issues that have potentially harmful effects, not

to mention positive influence for business.

“A well-organized group of local citizens in a legislator’s district wield more power and influence than any lobbyist,” says Blose.

“With the entire Florida Cabinet, House of Representatives, and half of the Florida Senate up for election in 2014, the voice of the local constituents is very powerful.”

The advent of the Internet has made it easier than ever for people to share information and mobilize to effect legislation.

The most effective nonprofit organizations are using tools from parent organizations and internally crafted messaging to educate our members about pending legislation, communicate with them about the potential effects, and mobilize them in numbers when their actions can shape the outcome.

Ensuring that the voices of individual constituents and likeminded organizations are heard by the right people at the right time is the most powerful form of advocacy and the kind of representation the founding fathers had in mind. And while it is appropriate, and even desirable, to have people who understand how government works greasing the wheels, good governance dictates that all voices need to be represented in the discussion. Your Lakeland Chamber Public Affairs Division is proud to play a role in making this a reality.

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 23

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

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

Years 25

CELEBRATE OF

CERTIFIED FOUNDATIONS, INC.

FOUNDATI ON SOLUTI ONS SI NCE 1989 Together with

Join the team at Certified Foundations, Inc for a 25th Anniversary celebration that honors those who have unselfishly fought for our nation.

A check presentation will be made to the Military Order of the Purple Heart

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS THURSDAY, MAY 15 | 5:30 - 7:30 P.M. CFi is located 5 miles north of Interstate 4 off US Highway 98 N. From Downtown Lakeland, travel north on US Highway 98 N past Granger & Sons BBQ and turn left onto Banana Rd. CFI is on the left.

1306 Banana Rd, Lakeland, FL 33810 Grand Prize Give-Away

3-day, 2-night Hyatt Stay Other door prizes include: Flatscreen TV, iPad Mini, Safety Harbor Resort and Spa $10 Chamber members | $30 Non Chamber Members No Charge for Veterans RSVP at LakelandChamber.com