September 2014 Forum for Business

SEPTEMBER 2014 | VOL. XXIII, NO. 9

CREDIT, COLLECTIONS, & CUSTOMERS MANAGING YOUR ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE BUY LAKELAND. IT MAKES GOOD CENTS!

LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

CH A M BER STAFF KATHLEEN L. MUNSON President

KMUNSON@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

BARBARA BENNETT Executive Assistant

BBENNETT@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

S A L LY C H A P M A N

Vice President, Finance & Administration

SCHAPMAN@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

ADAM HANSJONS

Administrative Assistant, Member Information

AHANSJONS@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

KATIE MCBRIDE Membership Consultant

KMCBRIDE@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

NIKKI OAKLEY

Membership Account Executive

NOAKLEY@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

TERRY OTTINGER

Vice President, Membership Development

TOTTINGER@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

E M I LY R I N E H A R T

Administrative Assistant, Member Relations | Public Affairs

ERINEHART@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

RICH ROY

Vice President, Public Affairs

RROY@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

PATTY SMITH

BORING HAS BEEN MANAGING ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE FOR 90 YEARS! READ ABOUT THEIR BEST PRACTICES ON PAGE 8.

Administrative Assistant, Convention & Visitors Bureau

PSMITH@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

AMY WIGGINS

Vice President, Communications

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

AWIGGINS@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

TIMOTHY B. JACKSON | CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD

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

NUJAK COMPANIES

KATHLEEN L. MUNSON | PUBLISHER LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

AMY S. WIGGINS | EDITOR LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

NICE BRANDING AGENCY | CREATIVE DIRECTION, PRODUCTION & PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.BRANDNICELY.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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aware : How t o K n o w I f a Collect ion Agen cy is Va li d A LEGITIMATE

X Check your credit report.

COLLECTION

X Check the name

AGENCY IS A BUSINESS THAT MAKES PROFIT BY

CINDY SHARP

PURCHASING

FLORIDA CRIME PREVENTION PRACTITIONER

DEFAULTED

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce has teamed up with the Lakeland Police Department Crime Prevention Division to bring helpful tips and information to the business community.

CONSUMER ACCOUNTS FROM CREDITORS AND THEN PURSUING DEBTORS FOR UNPAID BALANCES. SOME INDIVIDUALS, ASSUMING THEY HAVE FORGOTTEN TO PAY A PAST DEBT, WILL SUBMIT A PAYMENT TO THE COLLECTIONS AGENCY WITHOUT ASKING ANY QUESTIONS. UNFORTUNATELY, SCAM ARTISTS SOMETIMES MASQUERADE AS

CONNECT ] LakelandGov.net/LPD

DEBT COLLECTORS HOPING FOR JUST THIS RESULT. SOME THINGS YOU CAN DO TO AVOID BECOMING A VICTIM ARE:

X Pay close attention to the telephone number the collection agency is calling from.

If the number is blocked, there is a good chance you are speaking to a con artist. Collection agencies want you to call them back so they will not block their numbers.

X Request the collection agency send the request for payment in writing to you so that you may review it.

of the original creditor. If you do not recognize the creditor, you may be dealing with a scam.

X If the collection agency appears to be legitimate, but you do not remember ever accruing the debt, you may have been a victim of identity theft.

THIS MESSAGE BROUGHT TO YOU BY

X Send a request for a validation of the debt and the name of the original creditor to the collection agency.

X Check your state’s collection agency licensing board to see if the company is licensed in your state. If the company is not listed, it is either not a valid company or attempting to collect a debt without a license – which is illegal.

The Lakeland Police Department 219 N. Massachusetts Avenue Lakeland, FL 33801 863.834.6912

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

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Lakeland Office 863-937-9520

Winter Haven Office 863-299-5638

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

exper i e nc e e me r g e

WILL LINK CHAIR

CONNECT ] EMERGELakeland.com

There is an old legend that tells of a monastery in France well-known throughout all of Europe because of the extraordinary leadership of a man known only as Brother Leo. Several monks began a pilgrimage to visit Brother Leo to learn from him. Almost immediately the monks began to argue over who should do various chores necessary along the journey.

On the third day they met another monk who was also going to the monastery and he joined their party. This monk never complained or shirked a duty, and whenever the others fought over a chore, he would gracefully volunteer and simply do it himself. By the last day

the other monks were following his example.

When they reached the monastery and asked to see Brother Leo, the man who greeted them laughed, “But our brother is among you,” and he pointed to the fellow who had joined them late in the trip.

Today, little has changed. Many people claim to seek to be leaders when they are actually pursuing perks, control, status, personal advancement, and another line on their resume. These people serve themselves, not others. As a result, those needing leadership, such as local non-profits, churches, business, and even families, are left to flounder. Accepting a position of leadership requires one to set aside

selfish motives and personal gain for the improvement of your group, organization or cause. How differently would our homes, community and even the world operate if more leaders recognized that leading is the ultimate form of service?

EMERGE Lakeland is focused on creating the right kind of leaders for Lakeland. Our servant leadership is evident even within our own ranks. Our steering committee serves our committees, our committees serve our members, and our members serve our community. EMERGE ultimately exists to enrich our community, not the other way around.

Similar to the monks who traveled to learn more about effective leadership, EMERGE embarked on its own journey a few years ago to learn the importance of servant leadership.

Through the creation of the EMERGE Serves program, a handful of young professionals are selected each year to receive extensive training in effective service as a not-forprofit board member.

Although the training is focused on board service, the lessons learned during this five-week intensive study bleeds through to all types and forms of leadership and service opportunities.

Graduates of this program now fill seats and executive positions

on boards of directors throughout Lakeland.

Non-profits seeking young and qualified board members are invited to contact EMERGE about our EMERGE Serves graduates.

When leadership opportunities arise, challenge yourself to be like Brother Leo, in the story written by Michael Josephson.

Lead with a humble servant’s heart. Do the work that no one else volunteers to undertake. Know that no task is beneath you, if it is a job that must be finished to move forward.

Ultimately, this is how you, too, will become someone well-known for your extraordinary leadership.

We hire the best of the best. Top professional ability, a genuine passion for the industry and personal integrity are key components to our unique and coveted team.

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5 Tips f or M o r e E f f e ct i ve D ebt Colle ct ion Ca lls [THREE] KEEP DEBTOR CONTACT INFORMATION UP-TO-DATE.

BY C2C RESOURCES COMMERCIAL DEBT COLLECTION AGENCY

When planning on making in-house business debt collection calls, always track all of the communication with the client. It will allow your business to more effectively track the communication efforts with the client and nurture the client to pay their past-due invoice.

MAKE SURE TO INCLUDE: > Terms of sale > Exact amount owed > Product/services purchased > Original payment due date > A place to record who you spoke with and when you spoke to them

CONNECT ]

[FOUR] ASK OPEN-ENDED QUESTIONS

c2cresourcesblog.com

By asking open-ended questions, you can learn more about the debtor’s situation. Always first confirm that your information is correct and the company has truly not paid their debt.

The goal of the collection call is to ask questions that provide the information you need so you can show the debtor a way in which their company can pay the debt. The older the debt becomes, the less collectible it will be.

[ONE] CONFIDENCE IS KEY. When tackling an in-house business debt collection call, you need to appear more confident and authoritative on the phone, even when you may not be. Your mental state during the call has a strong impact on the communication between you and the debtor.

SMILE AND DIAL >Y es, the person on the other line of the phone will not be able to see you, but it is a known fact that people can hear you smile when you talk on the phone. And remember, a person who has a past invoice may not be happy on the phone, but having a smile can make the call more pleasant. >A UCLA study found that when communicating, 38% of people comprehend the way people communicate by how the words are spoken (tone of voice), while only 7% comprehends the choice of words. From the study, 55% comprehend from one’s facial expression and body language, which means you have to work much harder on the phone.

[TWO] SPEAK PROFESSIONALLY.

HERE ARE SOME SAMPLE QUESTIONS THAT YOU CAN ASK THAT WILL PROVIDE YOU MORE INFORMATION FOR A SUCCESSFUL PAYMENT. ASK When do you anticipate being able to pay your past-due invoice?

INSTEAD OF Will you be able to pay this month?

ASK I am looking through accounts receivable and noticed this is waiting to be paid. Is there anything I can do to help you?

INSTEAD OF Did you realize you were delinquent on this bill?

ASK So we don’t miss your payment, what bank will it be drawn on?

INSTEAD OF Will the payment be coming from a bank?

[FIVE] FINALIZE BEFORE HANGING UP.

Follow best practices for phone etiquette. The tone, pitch, speed and inflection of your speech will have a lasting effect with the debtor for this call and future communication.

> How the payment will be made

> Never chew gum, eat food or sip a drink while on a phone call.

> Who the payment will be coming from

> Focus on the phone call. Do not check email or doodle. Act like you are in-person with the person on the other line and provide eye contact. > Pause more often than you normally do on the phone to allow the debtor to respond. Even when the pause feels awkward, you may not be allowing the person to speak their thoughts.

> When the payment will be made

Verbally confirm with the debtor a summary of what was discussed on the phone. Include these items before ending the call.

> Your address, account information, or any details the debtor would need to make the payment

> What forms will be emailed, faxed, mailed, etc. to complete the payment > How it will be communicated that the payment will be made > When the caller can call back if no communication occurs

> Speak at a moderate pace and enunciate your words.

NERVOUS ABOUT MAKING YOUR FIRST IN-HOUSE CALL? Practice with a test call. Record your introduction and, if you have a partner, talk through a practice call with a fake scenario. Then, listen back and make notes on what things you will change. Preparation is important for a successful call.

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SEE MORE AT: www.c2cresourcesblog.com/samples-of-collection-letters-and-callscripts/5-tips-effective-debt-collection-calls

A D A M H A NS J O NS

Lakeland & Bartow Offices www.moodylaw.com

CHAMBER

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

Developing Your

Networking Roadmap Tuesday, Sept 9 | 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Grow Financial Federal Credit Union 2645 S Florida Ave

The Chamber’s Membership Development and Communications divisions welcome Adam Hansjons to the team as Administrative Assistant, Member Information. Adam is a native of Sweden, but spent time visiting his grandmother in Ft. Lauderdale. When it came time for college, Adam remembered Florida and joined the men’s soccer team at Florida Southern College.

Adam graduated in May with a degree in Business Administration and Marketing Management.

As an intern at FHS, Inc., Adam taught himself graphic design skills in addition to his work with the marketing and sales departments.

“On the soccer field, I had many opportunities to work with a diverse group of individuals, and I’m looking forward to meeting the diversity of our members and learning more about their businesses.”

Adam works with Terry Ottinger, Vice President, Membership Development and Amy Wiggins, Vice President, Communications.

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

HIS EMAIL ADDRESS IS AHANSJONS@ LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

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BY CAROL CATANZARITE , BORING Extending credit to a new customer is a major concern for any small business. Establishing a credit policy and collection procedure is the first essential step for success. A small business needs a strong cash flow in order for the business to thrive, and receiving payments on time is critical to maintaining a strong cash flow.

If a business is going to extend large amounts of credit it is important to create a welldesigned credit application, a source for rating the potential customer’s credit, and a personal guarantee in case the customer defaults on payments.

Most of our new customers come to us through the purchase of equipment, and the majority of those purchases are handled through a third party leasing company. The leasing companies are able to run thorough credit checks on businesses and give us a response within four to 24 hours. Boring requests all new customers to complete a credit application, which includes a majority of the same key information leasing companies require, in addition to three local references and a signed personal guarantee.

In years past, the majority of companies had a full time Accounts Receivable employee who, in addition to receiving payments, was responsible for checking new customers’ credit histories and collecting from past due accounts.

Boring, like many other companies, had to reduce expenses when the economy faltered and one position that was eliminated was a designated full-time Accounts Receivable position.

Boring has a networked Accounts Receivable system that not only ages our invoices by due date, but also allows us to mark a customer’s account On Hold due to lack of payment on the account. We begin using the On Hold option on an account at the 45 days past due mark. If a customer is flagged On Hold in our system we will not release service or supply requests until the customer is contacted and a payment plan is agreed upon. Notes are made on the customer’s account to list any such agreement, special circumstances, etc. Our program also has a task option that will notify us when to follow up.

Many of our customers make payments using credit cards or through the use of their bank’s ACH program. We encourage our customers to use either of these methods of payment, and we have found that this practice has improved our collective days

outstanding.

Boring sends customers Account Statements the first working day of each month to accounts showing past due balances on the account. In most cases, copies of the past due invoices listed are included with the Account Statement.

We also notate the statement “PAST DUE” and (or) add a personal note before mailing, in hopes of calling attention to the issue.

If an account reaches 60 days past due, the next step is to inform the sales representative for the account so they can contact the customer. At 75 days outstanding, a formal letter is mailed to notify the customer that cancellation of the contract is pending. At 90 days outstanding, the customer is sent a follow-up letter to inform them that their account will be turned over to a collection agency if payment is not received within the designated time frame.

Monthly receivable trends are key to managing the health of your business. A good accounting package will offer a small business owner snapshot reports for aging accounts receivable and sales, often by graphing for an easy-to-read view.

To track trends in payment, consider using a Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) formula. The equation in the top right column will show the average time in days that receivables are outstanding.

{DAYS SALES OUTSTANDING}

GROSS RECEIVABLES ANNUAL NET SALES/365 DAYS For example, a company’s gross receivables balance is $50,000 and annual net sales are $365,000.

$50,000

$50,000

$365,000/ 365 DAYS

$1,000 = 50 DAYS

Tracking this trend can help you identify upcoming cash flow issues and even offer guidance to refine credit terms.

Another best practice is to compare your DSO to industry standards. If your calculated DSO is 25 days (meaning that an estimated 25 days of sales have not been converted into cash), but your competitors’ DSO is 15 days, then you have a problem.

Aging trends that follow the growth or decline of over-30, over-60 and over-90 receivables will offer insight into a company’s ability to collect receivables and ultimately a bad debt ratio. In general, the longer an account balance is overdue, the greater the likelihood that the debt will go unpaid.

By plotting the trendline for accounts receivable on a monthly basis, a company can predict the amount of receivables that will be outstanding in the future.

And, when used in conjunction with the DSO report, these trendlines offer business owners greater insight into upcoming or seasonal cash flow challenges.

For any business, large or small, managing accounts receivable can seem overwhelming. By organizing key performance indicators such as DSO and aging AR, and reviewing them regularly, a business owner will have a clear picture of the financial health of the company.

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

VR BUSINESS SALES/ MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS CHRIS GUTIERREZ (863) 682-4600 1611 HARDEN BLVD LAKELAND, FL 33803

CONNECT ] www.vrbusiness-sales.com

Buying or selling a business is a huge undertaking… and one that requires expertise to successfully navigate the process. August’s Small Business of the Month winner has been helping central Florida business owners for more than eight years to purchase or sell their business.

VR Business Sales/ Mergers & Acquisitions provides business valuation and brokerage services to business owners that want to sell all or part of their companies to an outside investor. Many small to mid-sized businesses are either handed down to the next generation or are sold to a 3rd party such as company employees, competitors or other

strategic buyers.

VR Business Broker owner Chris Gutierrez says, “We can assist the owner by helping establish market value, identifying the right prospects, preparing the business for sale and marketing the business to other business owners or investors.” VR Business Brokers works with the seller to package the business so it looks the way a buyer would expect. Once buyers are identified then VR will handle the delicate negotiations, due diligence process and coordinate all the parties involved for a successful transaction.

One of the trickiest parts of their work is being able to market the business while

keeping the transaction confidential.

“Customers will tell us they want to sell their business but don’t tell anyone because it’s confidential,” says Chris. While it can be a challenge to market something that has to be kept secret, it’s a challenge that VR has been able to navigate.

Because of the nature of the transaction VR has become a trusted resource as they are tasked with helping owners get the most for their single-biggest asset, yet handling it in a discreet and confidential manner which has lead to many referrals and repeat customers that have bought and sold multiple businesses through the years.

VR Business Sales/ Mergers & Acquisitions’ mission is to help our sellers receive a good value for their business and that our buyers only invest in businesses that are solid, sustainable, and that they find success.

Many times VR gets referrals from existing clients, CPA firms, financial advisors or attorneys. Chris Gutierrez has achieved the prestigious designation of Certified Business Intermediary (CBI) through the International Business Brokers Association.

This designation is earned through course work, testing and experience and identifies Chris as a knowledgeable, invested and dedicated

BY MARY MCQUEEN,

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

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH COMMITTEE MEMBER MARY MCQUEEN (MCQUEEN MARKETING, LLC) PRESENTS THE PLAQUE OF APPRECIATION TO CHRIS GUTIERREZ AND ROCKY MILLER.

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brokerage professional..

Chris Gutierrez is very involved within the community and has been an active participant in the Toys for Tots program and is a member of Lakeland Kiwanis. Additionally, he volunteers with many youth sports programs as well as supporting Movember – a movement where men sport mustaches in November raising awareness and funds for prostate cancer research.

The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Chris Gutierrez and VR Business Sales/Mergers & Acquisitions as the Small Business of Month award winner for August 2014.

MCQUEEN MARKETING, LLC

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“When we turned around and looked for help, the Chamber and its membership were quickly by our side and actively supported our project. I feel strongly that the Chamber’s active support made a difference in being able to secure $2 million in funding for our Lakeland CSU and triage center. Our estimates suggest the CSU will help to boost the community economy through salaries, wages, purchases of goods and services and the provision of services by approximately $4.8 million per year.�

Bill Gardam, CEO Peace River Center for Personal Development

RIBBON CUTTINGS It’s hard to believe, but we’re only a few months away until the start of interim committees for the 2015 Legislative Session.

Chamber staff and members of our Government Affairs Committee need your input to help shape our 2015 Lakeland Chamber of Commerce Legislative Priorities. Last year, we worked with our partners with the City of Lakeland, Detroit Tigers, Polk County Schools, Polk County Commission, area businesses, educational institutions and Florida Chamber to develop initiatives supported by our organization. This year the Government Affairs committee plans to work with our 1,700 members to develop a more refined and localized agenda that supports less government and a more business-friendly environment.

The Chamber uses an Issue Priority Matrix to vet issues submitted by member businesses.

Contact Rich Roy, VP Public Affairs to receive the form to submit issues of importance to your business or organization that you feel the Chamber should include in their 2015 Legislative Priorities. The 2015 Legislative Priority Statement is a key document used by the Lakeland Chamber when advocating for important legislative measures to our Polk Delegation in Tallahassee.Â

TO VIEW MORE ABOUT THE CHAMBER'S LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES AND TO DOWNLOAD YOUR ISSUE PRIORITY MATRIX FORM, VISIT BIT.LY/KEYISSUES

If you have any questions or comments please contact Rich Roy or Emily Rinehart at (863) 688-8551 Ext. 241. Thank you for your time and service in helping to shape the Chamber’s 2015 Legislative Priorities.Â

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

september 2014 dates MON 8 WED 10

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 EMERGE LAKELAND STEERING COMMITTEE 3:45 p.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

TUES 9

THUR 11

8:00 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 BUSINESSVOICE OF GREATER LAKELAND

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS COMMITTEE MEETING

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

THUR 25

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 SCORE ROUND TABLE

FRI 12

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 SCHMOOZE A’PALOOZA

JULY

11:30 a.m.

Miller's Lakeland Ale House 5650 S Florida Ave

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

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 LEADERSHIP LAKELAND OPENING RETREAT River Ranch

Chamber Briefing Room

THUR 18

7:30 a.m.

Lakeland Chamber 35 Lake Morton Dr

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 EMERGE FILLS FRESCO’S EMERGE LAKELAND 5:30 p.m.

Fresco’s

6:00 p.m.

Munn Park

11:45 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

WED 17

5:30 p.m.

Grow Financial Federal Credit Union 2645 S Florida Ave

THUR 25

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 RALLY THE SPIRIT: FOOD, FRIENDS, FUTURE – IT’S ALL HERE – WELCOMING COLLEGE STUDENTS TO LAKELAND

9:15 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

MON 15

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 CHAMBER NEXT

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 p.m.

SUN n’ FUN, Inc. 4175 Medulla Rd

WALK-IN VISITORS................................................................................324 RELOCATION RESPONSE MAILINGS.............................................. 5 RELOCATION RESPONSE (WALK IN)...........................................29 ACCOMMODATIONS................................................................................... 2 WINTER ACCOMMODATIONS.............................................................. 0 VISITOR INFORMATION MAILINGS.................................................. 5 VISITOR CENTER E-MAIL INQUIRIES...........................................111

THURSDAY-SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25-27 ANNUAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS PLANNING RETREAT Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SAT

SUN

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

19

20

21

26

27

28

EMERGE LAKELAND STEERING COMMITTEE 3:45 P.M.

15

CHAMBER NEXT 5:30 P.M.

16

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

22

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS 8:00 A.M.

SCHMOOZE A’PALOOZA 11:30 A.M.

BUSINESSVOICE OF GREATER LAKELAND 9:15 A.M.

RALLY THE SPIRIT: FOOD, FRIENDS, FUTURE 6:00 P.M.

17 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

23

24

18 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 P.M.

25 SCORE ROUND TABLE 7:30 A.M. EMERGE FILLS FRESCO’S 5:30 P.M. ANNUAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS PLANNING RETREAT

29

30

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

LEADERSHIP LAKELAND OPENING RETREAT

ANNUAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS PLANNING RETREAT

ANNUAL BOARD OF DIRECTORS PLANNING RETREAT

Even t HI G HLI GH T S 01

02

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS Hosted by Trinity Medical Group

01 | Vice Chair, Talent Development Joe Childs, DBA (Southeastern University College of Business and Legal Studies) presented a plaque of appreciation to Trinity Medical Group and Dr. Adam Parker, Dr. Dane Parker and Dr. Dorothy Ray. 02 | Otis the Owl, Owl Now's owl, even managed to do some networking!

03 | Members of the Chamber’s Leads Groups found time to socialize in an office area.

03

04 | The conference room on the second floor was home base for the event.

SCHMOOZE A’PALOOZA Hosted by Terrace Hotel

05 | Kim Hooten (Comfort Keepers) shares her 30-second commercial with the power networkers.

06 | Jared Weggeland (Southern Homes of Polk County) gave out prizes as he included quiz questions in his 30-second commercial!

04

05

06

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

Highland Homes Ryan Malcomb, community sales manager in Polk County, has almost 20 years of experience in real estate and sales. He previously earned multiple awards throughout his resort sales career and strives to make buying a new home a fun and exciting adventure.

Valerie Bodine, sales counselor in Polk County, brings both real estate and marketing experience to Highland Homes. She previously worked with banking and finance as well as waterfront real estate and new home construction in southeast Florida and Lakeland. She is excited to use her diverse career background to build relationships with Highland Homes homebuyers.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate Cannon Kirby has joined the firm as a licensed real estate sales associate. Kirby specializes in vacant land, including agricultural and recreational properties. He has been a professional photographer for the past 18 years, exhibiting in many galleries around Central Florida. As a fourthgeneration Floridian, a major theme in his work is Florida’s landscape.

Charles H. Houder, III, CF, long-time director of land acquisition and management for the Suwannee River Water Management District in Live Oak, Florida has joined the Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate Forestry Group.

Watson Clinic LLP Is pleased to welcome Jason W. Maloney, MD, a board-certified radiologist, to our team of imaging specialists. Dr. Maloney joins the Clinic following four years of private practice in Columbus, GA. He received his medical degree from the SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, NY, where he also completed his internship in internal medicine, his residency in diagnostic radiology and a fellowship in neuroradiology.

CHAIRMAN ’S CIRCLE GrayRobinson, P.A. Florida Trend has recognized Sandra G. Sheets on its annual Legal Elite special report, recognizing the top attorneys in the state as chosen by their peers. The resulting lists of top attorneys represents fewer than 2 percent of the active Florida Bar members who practice in Florida.

Polk State College Has garnered statewide recognition for an innovative approach to manufacturing education from the MAF Center for Advanced Manufacturing Excellence. PSC won first place for Outreach and Recruitment of Manufacturers and Students for its Polk Engineering Technologies Education Council.

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

Certified Foundations, Inc.

Madden Brand Agency Welcomes Mike McLaughlin as Digital Strategy Director. Mike is an accomplished marketer, interactive designer, and media producer. In his new role, Mike is responsible for developing strategies and deliverables that help Madden’s clients capture leads, convert prospects, and care for customers.

PDQ Lakeland Nation’s Restaurant News, a top food service trade magazine, has named PDQ one of its 2014 Hot Concepts winners. According to the magazine, Hot Concepts recognizes forward-thinking companies at the leading edge of foodservice that also show potential for growth.

Central Florida Speech & Hearing Center

Welcomes Andy Bates as Cosmetic Restoration Project Coordinator. Andy has more than 10 years of experience in the construction industry, betiding more than 70 news homes and remodeling countless others.

Welcomes Dr. Katie DeZayas, Au. D., FAAA to the Audiology Department. Dr DeZayas earned a Doctorate of Audiology from the University of Florida where she completed her clinical externship at UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville.

Also, Rodrigo Para joins the CFI team as Project Specialist. A native of Santiago, Chile, Rodrigo has been using his exceptional bilingual skills to assist businesses and families throughout the state with their sinkhole and foundation issues.

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

Schalamar Creek Golf & Country Club Earned 2014 Community of the Year honors from the Manufactured Housing Institute National Industry Awards. Schalamar Creek was named the Southern region winner, one of four national winners. The Land-Lease Community of the Year entries were judged by an independent panel of professionals who considered community aesthetics, marketing materials, site plans, community and industry involvement – along with leases and covenants.

Hill Ward Henderson Is pleased to announce that 28 of the firm’s practices were ranked for excellence in the following areas in U.S. News & World Report for the Tampa Metro Area. Rankings for “Best Law Firms” are based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations, peer review from leading attorneys in their field, and review of additional information provided by law firms as part of the formal submission process.

Estates at Carpenters Welcomes Harvey Mabe, Mabe Production and Installation, Inc., and David Vespa, Safety Zone Specialists, Inc. to the board of directors.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Ralston Dantzler Welcomes Eric Ammon, CCIM as associate broker.

Ammon specializes in general commercial real estate, focusing on multi-family, hospitality and marina properties. He is also going to work to help us grow our portfolio under management.

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

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

FROYOZ

DANJO MANAGED EXECUTIVE PROPERTIES

4147 US HIGHWAY 98 N | (863) 858-2665

931 S FLORIDA AVE | (863) 646-3040

Lakeland, FL 33809

Lakeland, FL 33801

FROYOZUSA.COM

SHARENDREAMS.COM

EXCLUSIVELY YOURS BY JERI THOM

HALLBACK’S BAR & GRILL

SWEAT SPA

933 S FLORIDA AVE | (863) 646-6688

3900 DON EMERSON DR, STE 201 | (863) 937-8900

615 MIDFLORIDA DR | (863) 647-2300

Lakeland, FL 33801

Lakeland, FL 33811

Lakeland, FL 33813

JERITHOM.COM

HALLBACKSBARANDGRILL.COM

SEWAT-SPA.COM

TRINITY MEDICAL GROUP

MILLER’S LAKELAND ALE HOUSE

CENTRAL FLORIDA SCORE

3240 S FLORIDA AVE | (863) 646-4000

5650 S FLORIDA AVE | (863) 709-9262

100 S KENTUCKY AVE. STE 230 | (863) 619-5783

Lakeland, FL 33803

Lakeland, FL 33813

Lakeland, FL 33801

TRINITYMEDGROUP.COM

MILLERSALEHOUSE.COM

CENTRALFLORIDASCORE.ORG

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

N E W M E M BERS PARTNERS ARBOR HILLS

4145 LAKELAND HILLS BLVD LAKELAND, FL 33805 (863) 698-7811 WWW.ARBORHILLSSENIORLIVING.COM LAURA TENPENNY RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES/HOMES

BUSINESS BUILDERS G-UNIT BOXING

635 N WABASH AVE, UNIT B LAKELAND, FL 33815 (863) 934-6817 MR. DAN BOLDEN HEALTH & FITNESS

HEALTH MARKETS

1137 BARTOW RD #A LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 698-7677 MRS. STACY OWEN INSURANCE

Food,Fun ,Fri ends – It ' s a ll here INITIATIVE OF THE TALENT DEVELOPMENT KSI JOE CHILDS, DBA VICE CHAIR, TALENT DEVELOPMENT Southeastern University College of Business and Legal Studies

JOSEPH MOTORS

3003 S COMBEE RD LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 665-2800 WWW.JOSEPHMOTORS.COM MR. PHILIP K. JOSEPH AUTOMOBILE - DEALERS - USED

KEEL AND CURLEY WINERY

5210 THONOTOSSA RD PLANT CITY, FL 33565 (813) 752-9100 WWW.KEELANDCURLEYWINERY.COM MR. STEPHEN SIMON RESTAURANTS

LAKELAND BUSINESS LEADERS

231 N TENNESSEE AVE STE. 100 LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 606-8672 WWW.LAKELANDBUSINESSLEADERS.COM CHRISSANNE LONG ORGANIZATIONS/CLUBS

LIFESHARE MANAGEMENT GROUP 5137 S LAKELAND DR LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 937-9650 WWW.LIFESHAREUSA.COM RACHEL BOYNTON DISABILITY SERVICES

PAVE SAVER SEALCOAT

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

CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (863) 797-6779 MR. RAYNOR N SHAW ASPHALT MAINTENANCE

POTTER DESIGNS

Miller’s Lakeland Ale House 5650 S Florida Ave $25 Members Only Limited Seating

16 || FFOORRUUMM FFOORR BBUUSSIINNEESSSS

CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (863) 859-2458 MARK POTTER GRAPHIC DESIGN

Lakeland is a college town.

More than 22,000 college and university students call Lakeland home from August to May – and this September, Lakeland is welcoming them back in a big way!

With leadership from the Chamber’s Talent Development strategy group, the Downtown Lakeland Partnership, the City of Lakeland and our local colleges and universities, the DLP’s Food Truck Rally on September 11 will also rally the spirit of the students… and even feature some friendly competition, bringing students from different campuses together.

This year, the Talent Development strategy group invited representatives from Lakeland’s collegiate community to participate in a conversation about retaining talent for our local job market. Admissions representatives, professors and student life professionals revealed to business owners that many students are unable or choose not to leave campus to explore Lakeland and become familiar with the city. So, the strategy group sought to change that.

Working with partners downtown, this extended group of Chamber leaders, higher education professionals and DLP leadership organized an evening called “Rally the Spirit” to coincide with the September 11 Food Truck Rally. Thanks for support from the college and university partners, each participating student will receive a $5 voucher for his or her favorite food truck.

Of course, everyone is invited to share in the energy of the evening – and show Lakeland’s students that we welcome them and support them! Who knows… if you wear your school colors, you may even end up in a selfie!

YEARS

YEARS

1952 | 62 YEARS

CAREERSOURCE POLK

W. S. BADCOCK CORP.

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

1956 | 58 YEARS

SOUTHLAND SUITES OF LAKELAND

JENKINS LINCOLN

1960 | 54 YEARS GEORGE R. BURT, LIC. REAL ESTATE BROKER

1974 | 40 YEARS AA ELECTRIC S.E., INC.

1980 | 34 YEARS

YEARS AAA TOP QUALITY ASPHALT, L.L.C. STARBUCKS COFFEE COMPANY

BROWNING MOVING & STORAGE/UNITED VAN LINES

1982 | 32 YEARS CROWN PRINTING, INC. SPRINGER-PETERSON ROOFING & SHEET METAL, INC.

1986 | 28 YEARS DARYL A. JOHNSON, CPA

1989 | 25 YEARS

YEARS JONI FINKBEINER PHOTOGRAPHY, INC. MILLER SAFE & LOCK PYRAMID PROFILES SENDOUTCARDS

EVEREST UNIVERSITY

1991 | 23 YEARS SONNY'S REAL PIT BAR-B-Q

1992 | 22 YEARS CEMENT PRODUCTS & SUPPLY CO., INC. FORTIS INSTITUTE

1993 | 21 YEARS ACCESS SAFE & LOCK CO., INC.

1994 | 20 YEARS BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF LAKELAND & MULBERRY COGISTICS, INC. GOLD'S GYM/AMERICAN FITNESS, INC. LINDER INDUSTRIAL MACHINERY COMPANY

FFOORRUUMM FFOORR BBUUSSIINNEESSSS || 17

C ong r atu l at i o n s L e a d e rsh ip La k ela n d Cla ss X X X I I With more than 200 alumni and friends in attendance at Thursday’s Opening Reception, Class XXXII Chair Barbara Erickson (Class XXIII, Florida Leisure Communities, LLC) introduced the members of Leadership Lakeland Class XXXII. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS:

RACHEL BOYNTON LifeShare Managment Group Inc.

MIKE BROSSART

JOEL IVY

ALLEN REED

YMCA of West Central Florida

City of Lakeland

Madden Brand Agency

ROSSANA ESCOBARKLAPPROTT

ALICIA JAMES

LAURA RODRIGUEZ

Crowe Horwath LLP

Lakeland Vision, Inc.

JAMES JOSEPH

JIM SIDOU

KIRK EICH

Watson Clinic LLP

Joseph Motors, Inc.

DAVID EVANS

ELIZABETH KERNS

Peterson & Myers, P.A.

TROY GARCIA Allen & Company of Florida, Inc.

JON KIRK

LORI GARRARD

EDDIE LAKE

Grace Manor Assisted Living

ANGEL GONZALEZ

Haka Fitness

Palmetto Capital Group

JOE HALMAN, JR.

JIM COLLIER

Polk County Sheriff’s Office

BEN DARBY, JR. Darby Law Group, P.A.

NATE DUNHAM Core Wealth Advisors Inc.

SCMH Architects

New Bethel AME Church

City of Lakeland

Certified Foundations, Inc.

Lakeland Regional Health Systems

JASON HEACOCK

DARYL WARD Polk County School Board

BRIAN WEST Publix Super Markets, Inc.

MIKE WOODHOUSE Lanier Upshaw, Inc.

BECCA MAGLISCHO COLLEEN MANGAN Florida Department of Health in Polk County

RICK MAXEY

Heacock Insurance Group

Florida Polytechnic University

RANDY HUNT

TIFFANY OSLER

Tax Collector for Polk County

Junior League of Greater Lakeland

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

GrayRobinson, P.A.

Together, these class members will complete a rigorous schedule of monthly day sessions from October through May. Each session features hands-on experiences that engage class members in all aspects of Lakeland and Polk County’s community.

Leadership Lakeland is an annual program designed to identify leadership and enhance existing leadership in our community. The program unites leaders from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to improve their ability to lead effectively, offering its members a broad range of experiences and insights about the community, its people, its needs and its services.

Leadership Lakeland Class XXXII incoming class members pose for a group photo during the Opening Reception for the 2014-15 class.

PHOTO: MICHAEL WILSON, THE LEDGER.

TO

Chamber Members

FROM

Timothy B. Jackson, Chairman of the Board

SUBJECT

2015 Board of Directors Nominating Committee Report

DATE

September 1, 2014 ACCORDINGLY, I AM PLEASED TO PRESENT THE FOLLOWING SL ATE TO THE MEMBERSHIP FOR ELECTION, EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2015:

IN ACCORDANCE WITH ARTICLES VIII AND XIII OF THE CHAMBER BYLAWS, WAS CHARGED WITH DEVELOPING A SLATE OF TWELVE (12) INDIVIDUALS TO SERVE A THREE-YEAR TERM ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS.

Per the Bylaws, the membership has the opportunity to place additional names in nomination by presenting a petition signed by at least 25 members. Such petition must be filed at the Chamber office no later than September 15, 2014.

BOB CLEGHORN OMS GROUP, INC.

STEPHANIE COLON COMMUNITY SOUTHERN BANK

KEVIN DRAKE THE LEDGER

PETER ELLIOTT POLK STATE COLLEGE

DOUG JOHNSTON If nominations are received from the membership, a ballot bearing names of all nominees will be issued to the membership for vote, and the number of nominees with the highest votes equal to the number of Directors needed shall be declared elected.

SADDLE CREEK LOGISTICS SERVICES

HAROLD MCLEOD SUNTRUST BANK

AVA PARKER FLORIDA POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY

If no additional nominations are received from the membership, the slate proposed by the Nominating Committee will be considered elected by acclamation.

DR. BILL RHEY FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE

JENNIFER ROYAL Please do not hesitate to contact me at (863) 686-1565, should you have any questions regarding the proposed slate of nominees. I would like to thank the following members who served on the Nominating Committee: Chair-elect Kurt Elmhorst, Immediate Past Chair Mark Wilson, Past Chair Walker Wilkerson, Jarvis Kendrick, Kim McKeel and David Miller.

FARNSWORTH & MULLINS, P.A. CPA’S

SANDRA SHEETS GRAYROBINSON, P.A.

MICHAEL SPAKE LAKELAND REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

JENNIFER VAUGHN BANK OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

FORUM FOR BUSINESS

| 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 finished their final trading day of the July on a down note, with the DJIA falling 1.88%, bringing total performance in July to -1.56% and the year-to-date return to -.08%, erasing the gains accumulated over the Spring. The S&P 500 followed suit for July with returns of -2.00% and -1.51% for the final trading day of July and the month, respectively, however it remains in the black for the year-todate at 4.45% . Gold and oil drifted slightly lower moving to $1283/oz. and $98/barrel, respectively.

The market experienced an anticipated rebound in the first estimate of second quarter growth, increasing 4% while the dismal first quarter was revised upward to -2.1% from -2.9%. Over the past four quarters we have experienced and average annualized growth of 2.5%. While that is not considered strong growth it should be considered healthy given the pullback

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

COMPARISON OF LOCAL, STATE AND NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT CHARACTERISTICS Polk County

LABOR FORCE

NUMBER EMPLOYED

NUMBER UNEMPLOYED

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE

Florida

U.S.

Lakeland

Winter Haven

Mid 2014

276,947

9,642,231

156,997,000

44,092

13,937

2013

273,565

9,432,291

155,389,000

43,489

13,756

2012

271,538

9,368,500

154,975,000

43,027

13,521

% Change

1.24%

2.23%

1.03%

1.39%

1.32%

Mid 2014

257,284

9,041,329

147,104,000

41,180

12,965

2013

251,172

8,749,588

143,929,000

40,021

12,656

2012

244,996

8,561,692

142,469,000

39,079

12,235 2.44%

% Change

2.43%

3.33%

2.21%

2.44%

Mid 2014

19,663

600,902

9,893,000

2,912

972

2013

22,393

682,703

11,460,000

3,288

1,100

2012

26,542

806,808

12,506,000

3,948

1,286

% Change

-12.19%

-11.98%

-13.67%

-11.44%

-11.64%

Mid 2014

7.1

6.2

6.3

6.6

7.0

2013

8.2

7.2

7.4

7.6

8.0

2012

9.8

8.6

8.1

9.2

9.5

% Change

-13.41%

-13.89

-14.86%

-13.16%

-12.50%

experienced during the harsher than usual winter. Interest rates remain low as the Federal Reserve continues to taper their bond buying program.

They have yet to set a timeframe for increasing the short-term interest rate, however many are expecting the first rate hike since 2006 sometime in the first half of 2015, assuming the recovery continues.

Nationally, the

economy added 209,000 jobs which is another healthy, but not overwhelming indicator of growth. That marks the 6th straight month of 200,000+ jobs, which is often used as a rough benchmark for normal growth. The unemployment rate is nearing its normal rate of approximately 5%, with the national unemployment rate at 6.2% in July without seasonal adjustments.

NATIONAL

The state is keeping pace with the nation at 6.2% unemployment while showing strong growth in the labor force. In Polk County we have gained ground since the recession and recently pulled to nearly even with the state and nation, although we have had a slightly worse start to the year and are more sensitive to the June seasonal effects.

Overall the growth experience over the past

POLK COUNTY

12 months is indicative of the continued slow but (relatively) steady recovery. Despite the turmoil in the Ukraine and Middle East and economic conditions in Argentina and Portugal, the markets continue to be conservatively optimistic. If our midterm elections do not trigger another political showdown of significant impact, we should expect to see more of the same going forward.

publi c pol i cy

RICH ROY PUBLIC AFFAIRS VICE PRESIDENT

CONNECT ] LakelandChamber.com

Over the past several months, your Lakeland Chamber and FloridaWins.org have been working side-byside to roll out a new and innovative platform to keep members informed and engaged as to what is happening on the state and local level.

LakelandWins.org is a non-partisan news and information program designed for employers to communicate with their employees about issues that affect their organizations.

LakelandWins.org provides educational content to employers

about important statewide issues in an informational and nonpartisan manner.

In addition to providing news and information to employers to share with their employees, LakelandWins.org encourages citizens to become involved with the elections process by registering to vote and exercising their right to vote in upcoming elections.

LakelandWins.org does not tell citizens who they should vote for or how they should vote on issues, but provides them the tools

to educate themselves about the issues at hand.

Recent polling indicates employees view the information provided by employers on important public policy issues as more credible than the news media, political parties and their own research. In fact, 50% of employees want their employers to inform them about issues impacting their job and industry. Only 28% of employees polled do not want this information.

Furthermore, 59% of employees polled agree with their employer’s

approach to policy issues and only 14% disagree.

In other words, employees want this information, agree with their employer’s position on the issues and view the information provided as extremely reliable. Businesses like yours have the ability to play an integral part in the Florida legislative and political process by educating, activating and mobilizing employees.

Because change happens often, LakelandWins.org features regularly updated content that

MORE THAN JUST OFFERING

imaging services.

MEET OUR VASCULAR TEAM.

alerts subscribers when important changes are on the verge of happening at the state or local level.

For example, if elected leaders are considering creating a new law that will help create jobs for Floridians or strengthen our state’s education system, LakelandWins. org will alert you via email and guide you, step-by-step, on how to communicate with your elected officials.

We are committed to keeping you informed about state and local government decisions – and what they mean to you and your family.

With over 25 board-certified physicians, Radiology and Imaging Specialists (RIS) has been serving the Central Florida area for over 45 years providing the latest state of the art imaging services. Our expert team of physicians has credentials in diagnostic and interventional radiology subspecialties, so you receive the best care available.

Better Technology. Better Results.

Ask about our payment plan options

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 21

TA S T E

The Common Grounds member

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

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

BY DARIA LEFFEL HAMPTON INN & SUITES, LAKELAND SOUTH-POLK PARKWAY HAMPTONLAKELAND.COM

Here at the Lakeland Hampton Inn and Suites, every day starts with a smile, just like the one that more than two years ago invited me to become a part of this exceptional team!

Graduating with a Masters in Geophysics, I never expected to find myself in hospitality… and after only a couple of years I’m honored to be a part of the Hampton story.

The Hampton Inn and Suites Lakeland-South Polk Parkway opened its doors to travelers in 2008 and became a new gem to the Lakeside Village experience.

Our stylish hotel offers a prime Lakeland address near top local businesses, central venues and sports facilities. We are here to help you unwind after a long work day or get your sports team ready for the important game, to help you with organization of a meeting using one of our board rooms or celebration of your big day! Whether you are an executive traveler or vacationer, you’ll appreciate the convenience of valet dry cleaning services, laundry, business center, convenience store, exercise center, outdoor swimming pool and our free highspeed Internet that helps you stay connected while in Central Florida.

Here, at the Lakeland Hampton Inn and Suites every day starts not only with a smile, but also a hot complimentary breakfast. At Hampton we believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and to help you start the day off right. In case there is no time, we prepare our “breakfast on the go” with love and care each morning, so you can be on time for that early business meeting.

With the dedication to make you feel like home-away-from-home, there is no question we aren’t able to answer, no task we can’t accomplish and no expectation we won’t meet. We are your weather broadcast and daily news reporter, your guide to all Lakeland businesses and attractions, personal GPS and coupon book to local restaurants.

Hampton Inn and Suites Lakeland-South Polk Parkway proudly represents Baywood Hotels Company. Our story started in 1975 with one independent motel in Maryland and today, along with more than 80 properties across the country and overseas, we meet and greet nearly 10,000 guests daily with a smile and make their stories a part of ours.

Come visit us anytime, feel the Hamptonality™ and share your story!

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Inspire Learning...

The Guarantee does not apply to: offers that include financing, bundling of items, rebates, free items, pricing errors, mail-in offers, competitor’s service prices, items that are advertised as limited-quantity, out of stock, open-box, clearance, refurbished/used items, Deal of the Day items, special events, closeout, special order, discontinued, Buy One Get One, and liquidation items.

Our professional team represents over 80 years of experience in our 75,000 sq. ft. showroom!

(863) 682-3450 2440 Hwy. 98 North

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

www.officefurnituredepot.com

Locally owned & operated.

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Office Furniture Depot will match prices on identical in-stock items from authorized online competitors.

See store/website for rules and conditions.

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

W I T H C R E AT I V E C L A S S R O O M S AT U N B E ATA B L E P R I C E S