October 2011 Forum for Business

LA KELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMME R C E

F O R B U S IN E SS OCTOBER 2011 | Vol. xXI, No. 10

BUY LAKELAND. It Makes GOOD cents!

Lakelandchamber.com

CHAMBER STAFF K a t h l een L . M unson President

KMunson@LakelandChamber.com

B a rb a r a B enne t t Executive Assistant

BBennett@LakelandChamber.com

Sally Chapman

Vice President, Finance & Administration

SChapman@LakelandChamber.com

Y a d ir a P . Ho l mes Vice President, Public Affairs

YHolmes@LakelandChamber.com

L a ke l a n d Are a C h a mber of C ommerce F orum for B usiness M on t h l y A l ice Hun t | C h a irm a n of t h e B o a r d

C a ro l y n J a ckson

Senior Vice President, Member Relations

CJackson@LakelandChamber.com

Hunt Construction of Central Florida, Inc.

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

Am y S . W i g g ins | E d i t or

J a c q ue l ine L . J o h nson

Senior Vice President, Convention & Visitors Bureau

JackieJ@LakelandChamber.com

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce

C E Desi g n co . | C re a t i v e Direc t ion & P R O D U C T I O N www.cedesignco.com

K a t ie M c B ri d e - M c K en z ie Membership Account Executive

KMcBride-McKenzie@LakelandChamber.com

C h ris t ine M ur p h y

Administrative Assistant, Member Relations | Public Affairs

CMurphy@LakelandChamber.com

& Breakfast

N ikki O a k l e y

Membership Account Executive

NOakley@LakelandChamber.com

Terr y O t t in g er

October 13, 2011

7:30 a.m.

1317 George Jenkins Blvd Lakeland Habitat for Humanity Lakeland Economic Development Update

Vice President, Membership Development

TOttinger@LakelandChamber.com

P a t t y S mi t h

Administrative Assistant, Membership Development Visitor Information Specialist

PSmith@LakelandChamber.com

R e v en a T h om a s

Administrative Assistant, Communications Convention & Visitors Bureau

RThomas@LakelandChamber.com

Am y W i g g ins

Lakeland

Vice President, Communications

AWiggins@LakelandChamber.com

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

$5 Chamber Member ~ $15 Non Chamber Member Your R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit LakelandChamber.com to register.

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Š 2011 Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to refuse certain advertising and is not liable for advertisers claims and/or errors. The opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the position of the Chamber.

The Chamber has many missions including local, state and national lobby efforts, encouraging member networking, developing local leadership and supporting pro business initiatives in our community. Yet arguably the Chamber’s most important mission is to create a sense of community where our business members can come to find help, support and solutions.

The challenges of owning a business and being responsible for its health are unique and are best understood and appreciated by others that have faced the same challenges and successfully overcome them. Every business owner has wondered “why do I keep making the same hiring mistakes”? How do I grow my business without adding even more hours to an already packed work day? How do I exit my business one day and realize value for the effort and care I’ve put in it?

There aren’t many people that you can talk to about these issues. Those that haven’t been in your shoes don’t understand and honestly, we’re all a little reluctant to admit to our fellow business owners that we don’t have all the answers. The truth is that while all of us in business tend to wrestle with the same basic issues, none of us have all the answers we need on our own.

The good news is that Chamber’s primary mission is to support the efforts and foster the success of our business members. It’s the place you can come to ask for ideas, thoughts and help from those that have successfully navigated the issues you are now facing. Every business that has grown and prospered has gone through a very predictable set of growth steps and often has succeeded because they’ve received help and advice from another successful business that went before them.

The Chamber will be sending all our members a survey every 4-6 months asking what support, training and talent development you need. It can range from things like industry specific certifications and computer software training to Six Sigma or lean certifications, to personal development issues like delegation, leadership training and balancing your personal and professional life. We know the average Chamber member employers have fewer than 4 employees and the people that desire the training may be a half or a third of your workforce so we’ll ask you specific questions like, what time of day and day of week works best and whether you want Sincerely, classroom style training or remote learning?

Steve Moore Please let us know where the current “sticking spots” are that you are Florida Property & Development wrestling with. Working together with your fellow members you will find there Vice Chair, Education & Talent Development are solutions.

YOUR PATH FOR A

CHANGING TOMORROW

Traviss 863.499.2700 Ridge: 863.419.3060 FORUM FOR BUSINESS

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MARKETING MINUTE

a

worth

millions

Empowering Employees with Educational Benefits

Carla Morgan

Rooms To Go Furniture Inc. Director of Supervisory Training

CONNECT ] RoomsToGo.com

Employer education and training programs are truly empowering to employees, adding not only knowledge to the workforce, but also energy, motivation and loyalty. According to a survey conducted by Spherion ( found on AllBusiness.com), 61% of respondents who received training or mentoring said they were likely to remain with their current employers for the next five years or more.

Many management experts agree that the greatest key to productivity is happy F I NA N C I A L

employees. For years, the belief was that salary was the source of employee happiness and retention; however, recent studies have shown that employees also value challenging opportunities and learning. Employees know that specialized training enhances their professional prospects and makes them more marketable.

In today’s marketplace upgrading skills and continual learning are vital for both companies and employees.

Unfortunately, employee training and development

P L A N N I N G

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C E RT I F I E D

is often viewed as an expense, when in reality it is an investment. John Zapata, Senior Vice President of Distribution, Rooms To Go, says “retraction of training during an economic downturn is a missed opportunity.” During slow economic times, employers should invest in employee training and development. This can help companies make it through tough times and help keep good employees, which in turn increases the company’s productivity and profitability. Most P U B L I C

often, it is less expensive to educate an existing employee than to hire and train a new employee.

RTG has an in-house training program that is directly applicable to our specific educational needs. We also make available some tuition benefits for distribution associates to improve skills for their positions or to qualify for promotions. We work hand-in- hand with Polk State Corporate College where many of our supervisors and managers have taken

AC C O U N TA N T S

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advantage of their programs. Tuition assistance has been offered through PSC grant monies and RTG training funds; and employees contribute a percentage themselves.

Learning is a lifelong process and those who continue to develop are the ones who distinguish themselves and help to distinguish their employers as well. Employees are the principle asset for any business. Investing in them will pay dividends now and for years to come.

I N V E S T M E N T S

OUR

ROOTS RUN

DEEP As a locally owned and operated CPA firm, Wall Foss is proud to provide prompt and personalized CPA services. Our close proximity to our clients allows us to remain grounded and understand the marketplace where our clients live and work.

We identify opportunities for significant savings through careful planning and execution. Wall Foss is here, today and always, to solve problems, build relationships, and grow your wealth.

212 East Highland Drive | Lakeland, FL | 863.683.0708 | wallfoss.com

Central Florida SCORE SHARES Expertise

Richard Pellegrini Pilgrim Associates

SCORE Volunteer

CONNECT ] CentralFloridaScore.org

The reality for inmates post release is that they typically find themselves on the bottom rung of any employment ladder.

Factor in the current economic climate and job market and they essentially can’t even get to the ladder.

While it varies by prison, inmates are identified between sixmonths and one-year pre-release as needing post-release training in areas of social behavior, employment tactics, legal resources and family/child assist types of people resources.

SCORE was founded in 1964 as a national resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Through 364 local chapters (including Central Florida SCORE), volunteer counselors provide free, confidential expertise on starting, growing and succeeding in business.

Because of this expertise, SCORE was a natural fit for providing pre-release counseling for prison inmates.

In Polk County, I am the only business counselor to discuss post-release

opportunities with inmates. I’ve received high-risk clearance, and I use this opportunity to counsel individuals on uncomplicated business opportunities such as construction, lawn care/ landscaping, IT services, virtual services, etc.

With proper counseling and planning for ventures like these, former inmates can jump many rings on the employment ladder, or may not need it at all!

Because recidivism can run 60-80%, I take my work very seriously.

If I can relay to inmates that there are free

services available to those who are committed to finding employment or starting a business, I know that I can reduce their chances of returning to prison.

SCORE counseling is couched in the

Polk Jail Ministry curriculum. Prerelease efforts can be challenging to track, but post-release, SCORE continues to work with former inmates to develop business plans, manage cash flow and encourage success.

HOW

A M O N T H LY

TO

Carolyn Jackson

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce Senior Vice President, Member Relations

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D e v e l o ping Human Capital: K e e p i n g Up With Workforce Changes

Most experts agree that human capital, employees, ranks very high or at the top of any company’s list of assets. Along with the importance of recruiting the right person for the right job comes the responsibility of retaining and growing them through professional development and training.

Two years ago, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors established several key strategic issues to guide the Chamber’s focus. Utilizing the newly announced “Six Pillars” visioning program of the Florida Chamber Foundation as a guide, local leaders recognized the same critical factors determining Lakeland’s future. A key need in building Florida’s and Lakeland’s future is workforce quality.

Identified by the Florida Chamber as Talent Supply & Education, the board adopted Talent Development & Education locally.

Steve Moore (Florida Property and Development) accepted the responsibility of chairing the newly formed committee.

At that time, educational institutions had begun to announce that students were being trained for jobs that would only exist

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in the future, and new technology was being developed at lightning pace. With support from education providers, board members and advocates, the newly formed “KSI” identified training, retraining, education, and certification as areas of focus.

With a focus clearly outlined, the group began to identify opportunities to add value in the areas of talent development & education to the Chamber’s relationships with member business.

In its first year, the KSI tackled the education portion of its purpose.

By partnering with Polk County Public Schools, the KSI was

able to promote the WE3 Workforce Education Expo. Recognizing that the future of Lakeland’s workforce is dependent on the quality of education received, the KSI was instrumental in identifying professionals in Lakeland to serve as counselors, develop curricula and provide internships for the career academies located throughout the County. The Chamber has also participated in developing a model of the Polk County career academies program for the Ford Next Generation Leadership grant.

In 2011, the committee steered focus to talent development.

Professional development

opportunities have long been a benefit of chamber membership for small companies.

Hoping to enhance the opportunities available to small business employers, the KSI initiated a Talent Development Roundtable, welcoming insight from training providers, educators and funding sources in order to provide world-class training at affordable prices. Collectively, 1,600 businesses representing 86,000 employees can access more than 1 business with 2 employees.

To begin, the Roundtable conducted a survey of Chamber members. With input from you, the Roundtable

is now on course to determine the most desirable training times, critical needs, CEUs that are currently sought out-of-county and more.

In the near future, this Roundtable will begin to offer the classes that the survey revealed were priorities – at prices that small business can afford.

As the face of the workforce continues to change, the Chamber will continue to bring resources to members and to connect members to one another. Together, with the proper training and skills, we will build the future of Lakeland.

CONNECT ] LakelandChamber.com

Roundtable Members Florida Technical College Rob Evans (863) 619-6200 www.ftccollege.edu

Florida Technical College in Lakeland offers medical programs over 8-11 months in Medical Billing and Coding, Patient Care Technician, and Medical Assistant Technician. We also offer 18-month AS Degrees in Medical Administration, Medical Administrative Assistant, Business Management and Technology, and Criminal Justice.

Fortis Institute Diana Simmons (863) 646-1400 Ext. 3720 www.fortis.edu

Provides training in a variety of medical diploma fields: Emergency Medical Services, Medical Assistant, Medical Insurance Coding Specialist and Pharmacy Technician. Programs focus on hands-on training and include externships to put skills into practice. Fortis Institute is licensed by the Florida Department of Education and is accredited nationally by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).

Team Training Unlimited

Warner University

Kenny Sturgeon (863) 214-6626 www.teamtrainingunlimited.com

Enrollment Management (800) 497-2972 www.warner.edu

TTU provides highly customized, interactive and immediately applicable Leadership Development, Team Building, and Business Skills training. Specific workshops and services include: Experiential Team Building, Meeting Facilitation, Conflict Resolution, Leadership Communication, Social Media, Assessments: Change Styles Indicator, Myers Briggs Type Indicator, DISC, EQ

Warner University strives to graduate individuals who exemplify academic excellence and Christian character, who are prepared to lead and committed to serve. Warner graduates have benefited from the encouragement and guidance of highly-qualified professors and now serve as successful businessmen and women in their communities, many in the professional fields of education, ministry, medicine, law, public administration and social services.

Traviss Career Center Dr. Wayne Dickens (863) 499-2700 www.traviss.edu

Traviss offers a wide range of programs in various subject areas. They are: Academic Education, Adult General Education, Architecture & Construction Careers, Arts, A/V Technology & Communication Careers, Business Management & Administration Careers, Health Science Careers, Hospitality & Tourism Careers, Human Services Careers, Manufacturing Careers, Transportation, Distribution & Logistics Careers and various other specialized programs.

Webster University Angie Birdwell (863) 687-9309 www.webster.edu/lakeland

Webster University, a worldwide institution, has provided outstanding higher education to the Lakeland area since 1999. Webster’s small classes provide students with the attention and interaction to encourage both academic growth and personal development. The University responds to the diverse needs of students by designing and structuring programs that serve the individual, and ensure that each student’s education is a successful blend of theoretical and practical knowledge.

Perpetual Technology Solutions Anthony Burts (863) 226-4133 www.pt-solutions.com/learningcenter

Our Learning Center gives business clients and individuals an avenue to learn and maximize various types of application, technical and professional development training. In addition, we provide e-Learning as an option to help businesses and individuals better leverage their time and budgets to acquire additional. Both instructor lead and e-learning materials assist in preparation where certifications are needed.

Polk State College Corporate College Rob Clancey (863) 669-2326 www.polk.edu/cc

The Corporate College is committed to enhancing the performance of public and private organizations throughout Florida. The renowned Corporate College faculty members are industry-proven trainers and experts that have both national and international experience in delivering training solutions on a wide variety of subjects. These experts address current trends, teach new skill sets, and lend their expertise to help organizations sustain a competitive advantage.

HELPING YOU LIVE BETTER Each day at the Y, families are coming together to get healthy. Children are engaging in physical activites, learning social skills and building selfconfidence. Parents are enjoying working out on our cardio equipment and participating in group fitness classes while knowing their children are in a safe, nurturing environment.

Ask us about our affordable membership and program rates for everyone. Call 863.644.3528 or visit www.ymcawcf.org.

At the Y, we make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.

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COV E R F E AT U R E

B y S t a c y C a m p be l l - Domineck Polk Works Workforce Development Board

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the Prescription for Small Business Success

Reduce . Retain . Re-Invest

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Believe it or not, despite high unemployment rates, a significant number of Polk County businesses are experiencing difficulty finding qualified applicants for current job openings.

There is ongoing evidence that skills shortages are stifling job growth. Employers are expressing that, while they have openings or would like to hire, the candidates that compete for these jobs may not have the skills to perform them. At the same time employers are apprehensive about the prospects of an economic recovery. Uncertainty, coupled with a skills gap for potential jobs, is an inviting challenge for public investments in the local workforce and economy.

Recognizing that businesses cannot readily expand unless they can find workers with the skills to perform these jobs safely and effectively, Polk Works offers two unique training opportunities for employers, Competitive Edge Training Awards and On-the-Job Training. By taking advantage of these opportunities, businesses can address the skill needs of workers and their companies, while also allowing for rapid employment or reemployment. These tools can reduce turn-over and help employers grow their own talent, while avoiding significant turnover costs.

Employers have the opportunity to positively affect their employees and at the same time improve the company’s bottom line.

The need for training (to mitigate the skills gap) is especially acute for dislocated workers transitioning to new industries, long term unemployed individuals updating their skills to catch up with emerging technologies, and low income and entry level workers seeking to start their careers in the worst economic climate in recent history.

Employers understand all too well the cost of hiring and training good employees. In many cases, candidates have the right combination of enthusiasm and intelligence, but lack the specific skills needed for the job. This is where the On-TheJob or Competitive Edge grant (customized training) can help your Polk County business save money while turning a great candidate into a productive and profitable employee.

On-the-Job Training reimburses employers 50 percent of the wage rate of the individual for the extraordinary costs of providing the training and increased supervision related to the training. It also provides knowledge or skills essential to the full and adequate performance of the job.

This program helps employers grow their own talent and assists in reducing turnover.

Competitive Edge Training Awards benefit employers by paying up to 50 percent of the cost of the training and are designed to meet the specific needs of the employer, especially in the area of introducing new technologies. Training can also be provided to employees in order to upgrade their skills and knowledge.

As businesses consider the return of training investments, these tools are available to mitigate some of the financial risks involved, allowing businesses to consider other strategic financial investments.

Reduce Your Turnover Cost by nearly $40,000!

Retain Good talent in your company by retooling and upgrading the skills of your workers Re-Invest In the economy by producing more goods and increasing your bottom line success!

Training workers can be a tremendous drain on a business’s time and financial resources. However consider these facts: Training increases employee productivity In addition to learning how to complete new tasks and take on more responsibility, employees can learn advanced techniques to help them complete everyday tasks more efficiently. For example, sending your bookkeeper to an advanced Excel class may help him or her learn shortcuts to simplify the accounting processes.

Training rewards longtime employees You’ll be more willing to promote existing employees who have learned new skills and are ready to take on new challenges.

Training reduces turnover

Training improves job satisfaction

Employees who don’t receive guidance or have difficulty learning the ropes are much more likely to leave your company. Employees are less likely to leave if they have the opportunity to learn new skills and keep up to date with industry skills.

Investing time and money in employees’ skills makes them feel valued and appreciated, and it challenges them to learn more and get more involved in their jobs. Higher job satisfaction ultimately results in reduced turnover and higher productivity.

Training aids in the recruiting process If you’re committed to training, you’ll be more willing to hire a desirable candidate who lacks a specific skill. Training also makes your company more attractive in the eyes of potential employees because it shows them that they have room to grow and accept new challenges.

Training reduces the need for employee supervision Not only does skill-based training teach employees how to do their jobs better, but it also helps them work more independently and develop a can-do attitude.

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s mal l b u s i n e s s o f t h e month

Preston Craft Hearing Aids

510 E Crawford St Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 687-8420 F: (863) 688-9568

CONNECT ] PrestonCraftHearing.com

Preston Craft, is a licensed audioprosthologist, which is a hearing aid specialist. He opened his office on Crawford Street in Lakeland in 1985, after gaining experience working with his mother and stepfather in their Lake Wales office. His daughter, Kayla Johnson, recently joined his staff.

This addition represents three generations that have been providing hearing aid sales and service to Polk County residents.

Preston performs hearing testing,

evaluation, and consultation to help improve patients’ hearing and understanding. He explains that the sooner someone gets help, the better the results. “Often, people have waited a long time to address their hearing issues.

They have lost the ability to filter background noise from their hearing focus. If you have friends or relatives that complain their hearing aids make everything too loud in a crowd, this is because they have lost this ability to filter the different levels of noise.”

His office focuses on providing a wide range of hearing aid models, including open fit with no ear mold and wireless technology. His many years of experience help him in researching which products work best for each patient.

Preston and his staff provide continued service beyond the sale, with free adjustments and cleaning. He is also able to provide on site repairs.

Preston Craft is a member of the International Hearing Society, and he is

area director of the Florida Society of Hearing Healthcare Professionals. He enjoys networking with his local business peers and learning about innovations in the industry. Preston is a member of the local Lions Club, who likes helping people of all ages with their hearing needs.

His patients appreciate his dedication. This is evidenced by the many recent referrals from his existing patients, including adult children

B y : Terri Go l eno ,

Small Business of the Month Committee Member Terri Goleno (Cheatham, Goleno, & Ferguson, P.A.), presents the September Small Business of the Month Award to Preston Craft, Preston Craft Hearing Aids. Also present to accept the award were Janet LaFond and Kayla Johnson.

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of patients. Preston Craft Hearing Aids is prepared to provide caring sales and service.

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Preston Craft Hearing Aids as the Small Business of the Month for September.

For more information on some of the requirements for the Small Business Award and to view previous recipients, please visit LakelandChamber.com/ BusinessResource.

Cheatham , Goleno, & Ferguson, P.A.

THE

MATTERS OF

W A N T T O K N O W W HY B E in g A M E M B E R O F TH E LA K E LA N D A R E A C HA M B E R I S S O B E C O M I N G ? R E AD on . . .

C AL E N D a R

E V E N T H I GHL I GHT S

NEW MEMBERS

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

Who will be next to showcase the Lakeland Chamber Champions’ Cup? Bright House Networks presents the 21st Annual Lakeland Chamber Scramble—Thursday, November 10 at Lone Palm Golf Club—offering members time to re-connect, network, entertain clients and enjoy being outdoors on an extraordinary course at a time of year Floridians truly appreciate! One of Lakeland’s premier golf events, the Scramble serves as an important fundraiser allowing the organization to fulfill its mission to sustain a strong business climate in our community.

The unique six-person format encourages serious golfers and those just looking for an afternoon of fun and excitement! Several levels of sponsorship and playing opportunities allow for participation from small businesses to large companies. With a limited number of spaces available, you’ll want to register today!

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 11 A.M. LUNCH & REGISTRATION NOON SHOTGUN START 4:30 P.M. AWARDS RECEPTION

Special Contests & Prizes SIX PERSON SCRAMBLE »

MEN’S and WOMEN’S TOURNAMENT » IF YOU DON’T HAVE A SIX-SOME, WE’LL GET ONE TOGETHER FOR YOU!

For more information visit LakelandChamber.com or call (863) 688-8551, Ext. 223 or 242 Graphic Design | Craig Advertising, Inc.

ENTRY FEES

LakelandChamber.com

$150 PER PERSON

Includes greens fee, cart, lunch, beverages and Awards Reception

$175 PER PERSON

Includes greens fee, cart, lunch, beverages and Awards Reception INCLUDING ENTRY INTO ALL CONTESTS

BONUS PACKAGE

$1100 PER TEAM

save the date

INCLUDES 6 PLAYERS, ENTRY INTO ALL CONTESTS AND HOLE SIGN! Total Savings of $50

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

DOUBLE EAGLE SPONSOR: $2500 AWARDS RECEPTION SPONSOR: $2500 DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR: $500 CLOSEST TO THE PIN SPONSOR: $500 LONGEST DRIVE SPONSOR: $500 HOLE SPONSORS: $100 (each) PRIZE SPONSORS: Donate a prize and receive recognition at the reception!

Sponsored by

lakeland chamber

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october 2011 dates thur 27 thur 13

thur 20

Thursday, October 13 Business & Breakfast 7:30 a.m.

Lakeland Habitat for Humanity 1317 George Jenkins Blvd

Thursday, October 20 EMERGE Gets Trashed (Sort Of) 8:00 a.m.

Republic Services 3820 Maine Ave

Thursday, October 20 Business After Hours

mon 10

Thursday October 27 SCORE Business Roundtable 7:30 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

Thursday, October 27 Annual Board of Directors Planning Retreat

Monday, October 10 EMERGE Lakeland Steering Committee 3:45 p.m.

8:00 a.m

tues 11

Tuesday, October 11 Talent Development & Education

wed 12

Wednesday, October 12 Government Affairs

fri 28

3:30 p.m.

8:00 a.m.

8:00 a.m.

Wednesday, October 12 BusinessVoice of Greater Lakeland

5:30 p.m.

McGee Auto Service and Tires 3939 US Highway 98 S

Friday, October 28 Annual Board of Directors Planning Retreat

November 1-2 WE3: Workforce Education Conference

9:00 a.m.

The Lakeland Center

wed 19

November 10 21st Annual Chamber Scramble

Wednesday, October 19 Executive Committee Meeting 4:00 p.m.

Lone Palm Golf Club

November 18 Annual Chamber CarBQ Portable BBQ lunch

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EMERGE Lakeland Steering Committee 3:45 p.m.

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Talent Development & Education 3:30 p.M.

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government affairs 8:00 a.m.

Businessvoice of greater lakeland 9:00 a.m.

19 executive committee meeting 4:00 p.m.

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business & breakfast 7:30 a.m.

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20 emerge gets trashed (sort of) 8:00 a.m. business after hours 5:30 p.m.

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score business roundtable 7:30 a.m.

annual board of directors planning retreat 8:00 A.m.

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Annual Board of Directors Planning Retreat 8:00 a.m.

Even t H I G H L I G H T S 01

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Business After Hours 01 | Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub

provided a perfect atmosphere for meeting and networking!

02 | Members search for one another

in the Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub 20th Anniversary balloon game

03 | Chamber Chair Alice Hunt

presents a plaque of appreciation to Bruno DeZayas of Harbsmeier Dezayas, LLP as a partner in the August Business After Hours.

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04 | Chamber Chair Alice Hunt

presents a plaque of appreciation to Tim Bosko of Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub as a partner in the August Business After Hours

NEW MEMBER RECEPTION 05 | The Pilot Bank lobby provided

new and veteran members an opportunity to meet and share.

06 | Pilot Bank Manager Scott Katz

welcomes new members at the August New Member Reception.

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Business & Breakfast 07 | There wasn’t a movie showing,

but members packed the media room at Valencia Hills for a special presentation from Verizon.

08 | Administrator Mike Bradley

welcomes Business & Breakfast attendees to the special media room at Valencia Hills Health & Rehabilitation Center.

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our

members NEW M E M B E R S Artful Journeys

4175 Medulla Rd Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 709-1088 lauriesartfuljourneys.artfire.com Laurie A. Fuller Retail

Audy’s Steelers Stuff 2034 Edenfield Pl, Unit 1 Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 665-5038 audysteelersstuff.com Audy A. Reeves Sports Merchandise

AZAP A/C & Refrigeration Service, LLC 1520 42nd St NW Winter Haven, FL 33881 (863) 551-9500 F: (863) 551-9503 azapair.com Darek Smith H.V.A.C./R.

Clear Thinking

(863) 248-1106 F: (760)454-2483 ClearThinkingLLC.com Susan Myers Internet Marketing

Hut No. 8

4000 US Highway 98 N, #103 Lakeland, FL 33809 (863) 858-4888 hutno8.com Dee Dee Ciccarello Retail

Internal Medicine Specialists Medical Group, PA 4730 Exploration Ave Lakeland, FL 33812 (863) 619-5999 F: (863) 619-5995 Dr. Carlos M. Romero Physicians Internal Medicine

(561) PIXFIRE pixfire.com Skip Farley Graphic Arts

Professional Window Installation, Inc 8351 State Road 54 New Port Richey, FL 34655 (727) 243-5272 F: (727) 869-0983 abcwintampa.com Jeff Tyszko Windows

Ramada Hotel & Conference Center Lakeland

(863) 614-1124 finisterretravel.com Yahaira Morales Travel Agencies

Foot and Ankle Institute of Central Florida

Rhodes Non Pressure Roof & Exterior Cleaning

4712 Exploration Ave Lakeland, FL 33812 (863) 644-1313 faicf.com Dr. Kelly Poncheri Physicians & Surgeons – DPM - Podiatrists

Hawk Sales, LLC (863) 859-7603 F: (863) 859-1584 hawksales.net Bernie P. Preuss Insurance

Healthy Chocolate

(219) 688-2228 HeathlyChocolateSource.com Kim Sheppard Health & Wellness

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DeeDee Jones

king’s court gowns

Pixfire

3260 US Highway 98 N Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 688-8080 F: (863) 688-6820 ramadalakeland.com John Hayward Hotels/Suites

Finisterre Travel, L.L.C.

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 DeeDee Jones, owner of King’s Court Gowns, for her outstanding attention to Chamber members and attendance at events! DeeDee is a wonderful asset to the Chamber and to the Lakeland community!

(863) 660-2569 F: (863) 248-7707 rhodesroofcleaning.com Russ Lake Roof Cleaning Specialist

Sgt Major BBQ

(863) 944-0338 sgtmajorbbq.com Sherman Roberts Caterers

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

Walk-in Visitors............................................. 324 Relocation Response Mailings.................... 0 Relocation Response (Walk In)................... 23 Accommodations............................................. 3 Winter Accommodations.............................. 0 Visitor Information Mailings . .................. 20 Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries................... 58

Silver Leaf Kitchen & Bath 1818 Harden Blvd, Ste 110 Lakeland, FL 33803 (863) 692-3400 F: (863) 638-6888 silverleafkitchens.com Pam Leonard Kitchens and Baths

Veterinary Healthcare Associates 3025 Dundee Rd Winter Haven, FL 33884 (863) 324-3340 F: (863) 325-8658 vhavets.com Monya Garnett Veterinarians

Zingo’s Shaved Ice

Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 934-8001 zingoshavedice.com Brett Montzingo Ice Cream & Frozen Treats - Mobile

RIBBO N C U T T I N G S

Special thanks to Mayor Gow Fields, Commissioner Justin Troller and all the Board Members and Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies special events.

Audy’s Steelers Stuff Lakeland, FL 33801 2034 Edenfield Pl, Unit 1 | (863) 665-5038 www.audysteelersstuff.com

Five-I Grounds Maintenance, Inc.

Lighthouse Ministries Store

Lakeland, FL

Lakeland, FL 33801

(863) 815-0907 www.Five-IGroundsMaintenance.com

711 N Florida Ave | (863) 687-4076 www.lighthousemin.org

Photographer’s Niche

Rapha Vascular Specialists

Lakeland, FL 33803

Lakeland, FL 33803

2300 E Edgewood Dr | (863) 944-4757 www.photographersniche.com

1619 Harden Blvd | (863) 577-8346 www.raphavascular.com

Principal Financial Group

Hut No.8

Lakeland, FL 33813

Lakeland, FL 33809

140 Fitzgerald Rd, Ste 2 | (863) 701-7402 www.andreadisinsurance.com

4000 US highway 98 N, #103 | (863) 858-4888 www.hutno8.com

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Camellia Rose Tea Room Owner Ellen Garrett recently attended the World Tea Expo. In her 6th year of attendance, Garrett was able to experience a tasting of unique teas from around the globe and discover new products for the gift shop. Also at the Expo, a preview of Tea Time Magazine’s newest cookbook featuring Camellia Rose.

YMCA of West Central Florida

• WORKERS COMP • EMPLOYEE BENEFITS • PAYROLL PROCESSING & TAXES

Pleased to announce that Mrs. Robin Butz and Mr. Kevin Cook have recently joined our Board of Directors.

Robin Butz is a Buyer for Publix Supermarkets and Kevin Cook is the Director of Communications for the City of Lakeland.

Learning Resource Center of Polk County, Inc.

Heacock Payroll offers employers a complete payroll processing service which can combine your payroll taxes, workers’ compensation and employee benefits. Allowing you to spend more time on your business and less time on paperwork.

Watson Clinic LLP Pleased to announce the addition of James M. Belarmino, MD, a board-certified urologist whose areas of expertise include adult and pediatric urology and the treatment of cancers of the bladder, prostate, and kidney. Dr. Belarmino is also trained in the use of da Vinci robotics.

Also, pleased to welcome Joel M. Chang, MD, to our team of anesthesiologists. Dr. Chang is a Watson Clinic specialist who will provide his services to patients during their visit to Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic Center and Lakeland Regional Medical Center.

Citizens Bank & Trust Pleased to announce the appointment of Howard Wiggs to the Citizens Bank and Trust Board of Directors.

Announces its 2011-2012 board of trustees: President Michael Folsom, First Vice President Timothy Kiley, Second Vice President Matthew Cantrall, Secretary Frank Lansford, Treasurer Yvonne Bunce, Immediate Past President Tom Watson, Alyce Badcock, Joyce Barclay, Sandy Hightower, Sherry Kelley, Cathy Kennedy, Ken Menefee, Sara Reyes-Peacock, Richard Pellegrini, Austen Snodgrass, and Curt Wheeler.

Radiology & Imaging Specialists Proud to announce the recent addition of Dr. Venkat Tummala, Board Certified in Radiology. Dr. Tummala specializes in Vascular and Interventional Radiology.

In addition, the administrative staff now includes Anne Hough, Executive Assistant to the CEO and Theresa Swam, Medical Staff Services.

M E MBER RENEWALS 20+

years You spend more time on your business and less time on paperwork.

1 9 4 6 | 6 5 Ye a rs

1 9 8 5 | 2 6 Ye a rs

1 9 6 8 | 4 3 Ye a rs

Knight Industrial Equipment, Inc.

W.H. Alderman Plumbing Co.

1 9 8 6 | 2 5 Ye a rs

Higgenbotham Auctioneers Int’l LTD., Inc.

Cheatham, Goleno & Ferguson, P.A.

1 9 6 9 | 4 2 Ye a rs

Polk Museum of Art

McDonald Construction Corporation

1 9 8 8 | 2 3 Ye a rs

1 9 7 2 | 3 9 Ye a rs

Baskets Instead, Inc.

Williams & Williams, Inc.

1 9 8 9 | 2 2 Ye a rs

1 9 7 4 | 3 7 Ye a rs

Alliance for Independence formerly PCAHC

1 9 7 7 | 3 4 Ye a rs

.HEACOCK.COM

100 E Main St. • Lakeland, FL • 863.683.2220 1105 US Hwy 27 North • Sebring, FL • 863.385.5171

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1 9 8 4 | 2 7 Ye a rs CivilSurv Design Group, Inc., formerly Keith & Schnars

Gentry Morrison Funeral Homes

LarsonAllen, LLP (formerly NCT Group C.P.A.’s LLP)

WWW

1 9 8 3 | 2 8 Ye a rs Clark & Daughtrey Medical Group, P.A.

National Memorials Saddle Creek Corporation

1 9 7 8 | 3 3 Ye a rs Yerton Leasing & Auto Sales, Inc.

Jack Hall Jr.’s Construction and Aluminum

1 9 9 0 | 2 1 Ye a rs Morris Commercial Enterprises, Inc.

1 9 9 1 | 2 0 Ye a rs Dillard’s Green Construction Services, Inc.

1 9 8 0 | 3 1 Ye a rs

The Mosaic Company

SCMH Architects

Riteway Food Brokers, Inc.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Lakeland & Mulberry Recently awarded a $10,000 grant from Taco Bell and a $7,967 SummerWerx grant from the City of Lakeland Neighborhood Association Coalition. Both grants were utilized to provide summer work experience. A third grant for $26,087 from the Polk County Workforce Development Board will allow more than 60 teens to experience a program promoting Teen Pregnancy Prevention and Workforce Readiness.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate David Hitchcock, ALC, Realtor®, and sales associate has been awarded the Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) designation from the REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI).

Play It Again Sports Owner Sandy Fortin attended the sporting goods franchisor’s annual Summer Meeting and Trade Show in Minneapolis. Fortin returned with new insights that will optimize the shopping experience for local families looking for quality, in-season used and new sporting goods and equipment.

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

Please email announcements to motm@LakelandChamber.com

15

years American Business Women’s Assoc Lkld Downtown

10

years Gregco Recycling, Inc. Yellowbook

5

years PM international Supplies, LLC Presidium Network Services LLC VR Business Sales/Mergers & Acquisitions

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Publ i c p o l icy: w h at ’s h appening

Yadira Holmes

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce Vice President, Public Affairs

The Sign Ordinance Task Force met regularly from May through August to research and develop meaningful recommendations.

Included in this process was a voluntary Chamber survey that offered incredible insight into the needs of our business community.

The survey results indicated widespread support for sign ordinance revisions and the Task Force thanks all Chamber members who participated in this valuable endeavor.

Parallel with the Chamber Task Force, the City of Lakeland also organized several meetings and workshops to examine how the City wanted to approach changes to the ordinance.

These public meetings were informative and provided an opportunity for the general public to contribute to the

conversation as well.

On Friday, September 2, the Chamber presented its formal recommendations to the City of Lakeland. The presentation included recommendations related to a-frame, temporary, electronic, and gas station (known as pump toppers) signage and was well received by the City Commission and City staff. For a complete list of the Task Force recommendations, visit bit.ly/KeyIssues. (The Chamber uses bit.ly to shorten Web addresses.

Typing this address into your browser’s address bar will take you to the Key Issues section of LakelandChamber.com.)

Moving forward, the City of Lakeland staff has now begun the task of evaluating how the Chamber’s proposed recommendations can be configured within the current ordinance.

While the work is not yet complete, the City and Chamber will continue to work together to make the sign ordinance more flexible, appropriate, and engaging for our business community all while maintaining the charm and aesthetic appeal of Lakeland’s cityscape. Proposed changes to the sign ordinance will be well thought and incremental and the Chamber will be present at future workshops as the work moves forward.

The Chamber is grateful to the City of Lakeland for engaging our membership on issues of critical importance to the success of the business community. And, additional gratitude is due to each member.

With your continued support, the Chamber will continue to work to make Lakeland “Florida’s community of choice.”

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce wants to keep you informed of legislation that could impact your business. During the 2012 Legislative Session, the Public Affairs Division will send a weekly update to keep our membership up to date on all the latest information from Tallahassee. To subscribe to the Chamber’s Public Affairs emails, visit Updates.LakelandChamber.com.

Earlier this year, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce began discussions with the City of Lakeland to propose revision recommendations to the City of Lakeland sign ordinance. In order to make progress towards a more flexible, business-friendly sign ordinance, we convened the Chamber Sign Ordinance Task Force and charged them with examining the current sign ordinance and recommending changes that would allow business to prosper while maintaining the City of Lakeland’s pleasing aesthetic and unique character. Members of the Task Force included: Jimmy Waller Task Force Chairman Waller Construction, Inc. Matthew Cantrall Signs and Specialties Mark Gauthier Krispy Kreme Doughnuts John King City of Lakeland Beautification Board Representative Ben Mundy SCMH Architects Cory Petcoff Baron Realty, Inc. Don Pickard Pickard & Pickard Realtors Alice Hunt Chairman of the Chamber Board Hunt Construction of Central Florida, Inc. Kathleen Munson President | Chamber

] Should you have any questions related to the public policy

initiatives of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce, please free to call your Vice President of Public Affairs, Yadira P. Holmes at (863) 688-8551 Ext. 241.

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Yadira Holmes VP-Public Affairs | Chamber Christine Murphy Admin. Assistant | Chamber

Heritage Lakes

Homesites starting in the low $200’s Executive Homesites Gated 24-Hr. Manned Security

The Sanctuary

Starting at $659,900 Luxurious Estate Villa Homes Fairway or Waterfront Views

Mission Lakes

Starting at $199,900 64 Upscale Townhomes Four Floor Plans To Choose From

Laurel Glen

Starting in the $300’s Lakeside Villas Three Floor Plans To Choose From

www.Oakbridge.com Visit our Sales Center at 1301 Grasslands Blvd. Suite 100 (866) 668-1227 | Pat Jones (863) 581-4699 or Debbie Haskell (863) 602-8830.

watson clinic

Obstetrics Pregnancy will be one of the most wonderful times in your life, especially if you’re receiving care from doctors you trust every step of the way. That’s why expectant mothers choose Watson Clinic. We have the expertise of board-certified obstetricians at two convenient Lakeland locations, the latest technologies including 3D and 4D ultrasound imaging, roundthe-clock deliveries at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, and a wide range of services from infertility counseling to specialized high-risk pregnancy care. Watson Clinic’s OB team will deliver for you, and for your little miracle, too.

Everywhere you look, we’ve touched lives. www.WatsonClinic.com | 863-680-7243 FORUM FOR BUSINESS

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Expe r i e n c e E m e r g e : T r aining Across Generations

CINDY GREEN

Furr & Wegman Architects PA Emerge Chair

Today’s workforce can be classified into four basic Generations: Traditional (born before 1945), Baby Boom (born 1943-1965), Generation X (born 1968-1979) and Generation Y (born 1978-1999). The differences in the work styles, learning needs and overall expectations of employees of different generations are distinct and well-documented.

Generations have different preferred methods of learning. On a broad level, Generation

EMERGE Lakeland Mission: To create a venue for our members to build relationships, develop professionally, become politically aware, philanthropically active, and contribute to the economic development and quality of life in Lakeland.

X and Generation Y prefer to learn hard skills and soft skills on the job. Hard skills are technical and are often specific to industry, while soft skills directly affect interpersonal relationships and selfmanagement ability – sometimes called “people skills”. By contrast, Traditional and Baby Boom generation members prefer to learn hard skills in a classroom setting.

These differences can greatly impact a company’s training plan and training budget. EMERGE Lakeland has a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of young professionals (specifically Generation X and Generation Y) in

the workplace.

The programs and events that are developed by the EMERGE Steering Committee are specifically designed to encourage networking among young professionals, offer opportunities for soft skills development and invite young professionals into community service. One program that Past Chair Kathy Wallen (Baylis & Company PA CPAs) is particularly proud of is EMERGE Serves.

With help from many of Lakeland’s business and non-profit leaders, this ten hour class takes 20 young professionals through the fundamentals of effective board service. EMERGE

Serves graduates are an outstanding pool of informed and energetic future leaders, and are carefully matched with open service opportunities in the community. Class Two will graduate this month.

In addition to EMERGE Serves, area young professionals are afforded an opportunity to attend monthly professional development workshops which have included book studies, guest speakers and facility tours. EMERGE’s P2P (Peer To Peer) Program pairs young professionals that are new to the Lakeland community with EMERGE veterans.

Through the year-long program, these P2P

teams are immersed in the Lakeland volunteer community, the education community and the business community, providing an incredible and lasting connection to the area.

As EMERGE Lakeland continues to grow, our programs become more relevant to the training and retention plans of companies in the Lakeland area. For more information on how to involve your young professionals in EMERGE Lakeland events and programs, please visit EMERGELakeland.com, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @ EMERGELakeland.

CONNECT ]

EMERGELakeland.com

Left to right Nancy LaFountain, Jennifer Vaughn, Chrissy Schaff, Randy Hollen, Larry Pitts, Scott Gardner

Who makes the decisions about your financing?

“We are fortunate to have these six professionals with more than 140 years of combined banking experience, over half of which have been right here in Polk County.”

Paul J. Noris – President and CEO

Does your bank shift your loan application to someone who doesn’t know you, or is unfamiliar with the local business climate?

We were founded to serve professionals and owner-managed businesses. Our commercial banking officers understand the local marketplace and can respond to your individual needs in a way you won’t find anywhere else.

Member FDIC

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www.bankofcentralflorida.com

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Downtown Lakeland 101 S. Florida Avenue • 863-682-7100 South Lakeland 5015 S. Florida Avenue • 863-701-2685 Bartow 515 N. Broadway Avenue • 863-534-3585

save the date

You want ‘em. We’ve got ‘em. Let’s keep ‘em.

Ashley Barnett Polk County Schools

Education & Talent Development KSI Member

Education is a crucial issue that has a substantial impact on the economic sustainability of Polk County. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce and its partners are keenly aware of the need for an educated workforce and professional development for employees. The Chamber Board of Directors recognize the importance and value of strong education partnerships which can contribute to the community by supporting existing entities and their efforts to educate, train, or retrain the local workforce.

The Lakeland Chamber has determined that education is one of its Key Strategic Initiatives, with goals of increasing value to chamber members, bringing private industry expertise and learning opportunities to primary, secondary, and postsecondary institutions, and providing a system to facilitate, track, and measure outcomes of these partnerships in ways that are beneficial

] T ickets CONNECT ] WE3Expo.com

3rd WE3 Career Academy The Lakeland Center to each stakeholder.

As part of the continued effort to develop and cultivate new partnerships between local businesses and education, citizens are invited to attend the 3rd WE3 Career Academy Expo and Dinner Event. Please mark your calendar for November 1, 2011, 5:00-7:30 p.m., at the Lakeland Center to participate in this unique Expo with the opportunity to learn more about the existing 35 career academies which are housed in our nearby high schools. As the need for a highly skilled workforce increases, it is important for employers to be aware of the pool of talent that is available from local educational institutions.

Additionally, local employers are an important resource for local educators.

Employer input is critical to the development of relevant program curricula, which in turn produces qualified interns and even future employees.

The following are some industries that career academies

serve: Business, IT and Financial Services, AgriTech and Agri-Business, Life Science and Medical Services, Research and Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and Public Safety and Administration. Career academies also provide a choice in education: students are able to transfer to an academy which appeals to their career interests, all with the opportunity for earning college credit and industry certifications.

Additional information can be found on the Polk Academies website at www.WE3expo.com .

Following the Career Academy Expo, please join us for a special dinner at 6:30 p.m. in Sikes Hall featuring guest speaker, Kaplan Mobray, who is a best-selling author, entertainer, motivational speaker, and career life coach. In addition, the five year “Career Academy Strategic Plan,� developed with community, business, higher education, Florida Ford Next Generation, and Polk County School Board input will be presented.

for corporate tables of ten ( $ 3 5 0 ) or individual tickets of ( $ 3 5 ) can be purchased at www. W E 3 expo . com .

If your business or organization would like to serve as a sponsor of this event, please contact Ashley Barnett at (863) 698-9512 or ashley.barnett@polk-fl.net.

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COMMON

TA S T E

a of local business o n e c u p at a t i m e

The Common Grounds member feature gives your business the opportunity to showcase “a day in the life” of your employees and customers. Each month, one of the door prizes at the Business After Hours event will be a Common Grounds Lakeland Chamber coffee mug & the opportunity to submit a 350 word article about your local business.

B Y J I M Le v inson International House of Pancakes

As the Operator of the IHOP Restaurant on South Florida Avenue in Lakeland, I work with my staff to deliver on IHOP’s promise of hospitality. Our menu delivers lots of variety and our recent “Simple & Fit” section, which offers most meals under 600 calories, is popular with people who have all sorts of dietary needs. We frequently change our “limited time offers” and in October we will have our “Trick or treat all you can Eat” pancake special and, of course, our favorite pumpkin pancakes will be back!

IHOP has strong core values and the company prides itself on delivering a positive impact on the communities it serves. For our team in Lakeland, we’ve found our involvement in different charities both fun and rewarding and we are all about helping a good cause.

South Lakeland IHOP now has free WiFi and this helps our students that might want to come by for a late night snack. Of course everyone knows that we offer our entire menu 24 hours a day – breakfast, lunch or dinner.

I can tell you that my team and I feel privileged to be a contributing part of the Lakeland Community.

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GO TIGERS!

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IMPROVE YOUR SEATING &

IMPRESS YOUR CLIENTS!

101!

SALE: $

List Price: $205 OFD Reg. Price: $119

SPECIAL OFFER! While Supplies Last

(FULLY ASSEMBLED)

• Hand applied individual brass nail head trim

• Rich Mahogany wood finish • Sturdy hardwood frame Faux leather in Oxblood/ Burgundy ONLY

(863) 682-3450

2440 Hwy. 98 North 1 Mile S. of I-4 Across from Lakeland Chrysler www.officefurnituredepot.com

Locally Owned & Operated

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

CAPTAIN’S CHAIR WITH CASTERS

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

CLASSIC TRADITIONAL STYLE

BUSINESS

H URS

AFTER

October 20 5:30-7:30 p.m.

5020 US Highway 98 S

$10 Chamber Member ~ $30 Non Chamber Member

Your R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit Lakeland.Chamber.com to register.