June | July 2023 Current Magazine

First 1,500 fans

2023 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chairman Jeff Podobnik, Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Club

Immediate Past Chairman Rick Bisio, The Educated Franchisee

Chairman-Elect Janelle Esposito, Esq., Esposito Law Group, P.A.

Treasurer Jason Bartz, NDC Construction Company

Vice Chairman, Membership & Communications Stu Henderson, Fawley Bryant Architecture

Vice Chairman, Public Policy

MAILING ADDRESS

P.O. Box 321 Bradenton, FL 34206-0321

BRADENTON OFFICE

222 10th Street West Bradenton, FL 34205

LAKEWOOD RANCH OFFICE AT THE MCCLURE CENTER 4215 Concept Court Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

Info@ManateeChamber.com ManateeChamber.com

Phone: 941-748-3411

Fax: 941-745-1877

MISSION:

To build a positive business environment while enhancing the community’s quality of life.

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s Current magazine is published in print and digitally bi-monthly and distributed to more than 7,000 businesses and community leaders. It is an advertising medium available only to Chamber members.

FOR ADVERTISING RATES CONTACT:

Jocelyn Vedder Greene

941-748-4842, ext. 116 or JocelynG@ManateeChamber.com

The Current magazine is proudly published by CG&B Publishing, LLC of Bradenton.

Justin Phillips, Minuteman Press of Bradenton

Vice Chairman, Workforce & Community Development Eleni Sokos, Oysters Rock Hospitality

President | CEO Jacki Dezelski, IOM, Manatee Chamber of Commerce

2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mark Barnebey Esq., Blalock Walters, P.A.

Mike Bear, DEX Imaging, Inc.

Mayor Gene Brown, City of Bradenton (Ex Officio)

Mayor Shirley Bryant, City of Palmetto (Ex Officio)

Carlos Buqueras, SeaPort Manatee (Ex Officio)

Nathan Carr, Willis Smith Construction, Inc.

Nick Choat, Sport Clips Haircuts of Bradenton

Chad Choate, School Board of Manatee County (Ex Officio)

Dr. Bill Colgate, MCR Health

Bernitha Copeland, Copeland Full Line Insurance, Inc.

Mark Dunlop, Florida Sleep Specialists

Joseph Dunn, ABC7-WWSB

Christie FitzPatrick, New College of Florida (Ex Officio)

Tami Goudy, Veritas! Pest Management, LLC

Steve Hall, Alltrust Insurance

Sherod Halliburton, Financial Access Federal Credit Union

Jennifer Healey, Feld Entertainment, Inc.

Sharon Hillstrom, Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation

Dr. Karen Holbrook, University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Campus (Ex Officio)

Albie Kaminsky, Spectrum

MANATEE CHAMBER STAFF

Bruno Kapacinskas, Southwest Florida Water Management District (Ex Officio)

Karen LaPensee, LaPensee Plumbing, Pools & Air

Rachel Layton, Mike Carter Construction, Inc.

Mitch Lomazov, EXCELLence Performance

Jonathan Marsh, Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton

Joshua Matlock, CareerSource Suncoast (Ex Officio)

Dr. Brittany Nielsen, State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota (Ex Officio)

Tom Norton, IMG Academy

Chris Perkins, SouthState Bank

Fredrick Piccolo, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (Ex Officio)

Jeff Phillips, Gallagher & Hagopian, PL

Dr. Teresa Rawe, TruePartners

Cynthia Saunders, School District of Manatee County (Ex Officio)

Doug Van Dyke, Leadership Simplified

Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge, Manatee County Government (Ex Officio)

Lee Washington, Manatee County Government (Ex Officio)

Michael Willats, Esq., Shankman Leone, P.A.

ext.172 Kristen Brusco, Member Services Coordinator

Misti Barnes, Member Events Manager

ext. 100 Amanda Clover, Member Events Manager

ext. 121

ext. 122 Kim Dalglish, IOM, Vice President, Membership

Jacki Dezelski, IOM, President | CEO

ext. 241

ext. 131 Tim Fenimore, Membership Development Representative

Jocelyn Vedder Greene, Creative Services Manager

ext. 275

ext. 116 Michele Jones, Workforce Partnerships Manager

Ellen Kelley, Information Specialist

Carey Miller, Vice President, Operations

Liza Minteer, Membership Development Representative

ext. 117

ext. 200 Debbie McDermott, MYP Program Manager

ext. 113

ext. 139

Tara Poulton, Vice President, Public Policy & Workforce TaraP@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 124

Cheryl Richert, Controller of Finance CherylR@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 115

from the president

By Jacki Dezelski, IOM, President | CEO

June is going to be one of my favorite months of this year, and it is all because of celebrations! We will host the 9th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards and the 43rd Annual Small Business of the Year Awards to honor hundreds of businesses, individuals, non-profits, and programs that were nominated by the community. It is gratifying that so many people took the time to submit nominations and highlight the great work, leading business practices, commitment to customer service, and community support undertaken by our nominees.

These two awards programs - together with our Business & Education Partnership Awards and MYP Awards - are a key strategy in promoting local businesses and community leaders. They also offer inspiration for future leaders and storytelling about the strength and resiliency of our businesses. I always learn something new and often leave with ideas for making our own organization stronger and more effective.

One of the most important resources the Manatee Chamber offers is the opportunity to connect. People gravitate to doing business with people they know. People also like to learn from leaders who they know and respect. I encourage you to use the Chamber's signature awards events as a networking opportunity to connect with fellow passionate, driven business leaders

So, if June is going to be my favorite month this year, then April will have come in as a very close second. That was the month that we hosted our annual Past Chairmen's breakfast to bring together the women and men who have lead the Manatee Chamber as Chairman of the Board. It is always a morning filled with great conversation and deep connection. As anyone who works in the non-profit world can attest to, the vision, leadership, expertise, and support of a Board of Directors is absolutely vital to the organization's success. Our Chamber has benefited from more than 130 years of amazing leadership by our Boards and Past Chairmen. It is the foundation and legacy of all that we have undertaken. As summer arrives - but rarely a summer slowdown - our team is focused on honoring and supporting the legacy of leadership and business success that each of you builds. Thank you for your membership and the privilege of working together!

Welcome to the Chamber Team!

Michele Jones, Workforce Partnerships Manager

Michele has joined our team as Workforce Partnerships Manager. She will serve as liaison to REACH Manatee and coordinate education and workforce initiatves such as Big Bank Theory, Project TEACH, Leadership Manatee, Job Shadow Days, and more.

Michele spent the last 34 years working for Manatee County Schools as a Student Support Specialist and teacher. She has her Master of Education Leadership and Policy Studies from USF. She enjoys going to the beach with her husband and reading.

Misti Barnes, Member Events Manager

Misti coordinates many of the Chamber’s events, including the Annual Dinner, Power Connection Lunches, Golf Tournament, Champions of Healthcare Awards, Business Expos, and much more. She moved to Florida from Westlake Village, CA in June 2022. A graduate of Pepperdine University, her early career was as a writer and director of live events, including Disney, Paramount and Universal Studios. She’s passionate about creating events and working with business owners.

Each year, past chairmen of the Chamber meet to discuss priorities, challenges, and opportunities for our community and the impact of the Manatee Chamber's leadershipthrough member involvement - in moving our region forward. We are grateful that these dedicated leaders continue to be engaged with the Chamber and add to our legacy.

public policy

Chamber Priorities Successful in Legislative Session

The focus of the Manatee Chamber’s public policy work is to build a positive business environment by advocating responsive legislation and regulatory practices as well as ensuring we support and protect our area's business and tourism climates. Thanks to significant input and involvement by our members, we provide ongoing advocacy and serve as the voice of business, working with elected officials and agency staff at the local, state, and federal levels on issues affecting our community.

Our 20+ Chamber committees and task forces meet regularly to assess issues, develop policy positions, and provide a platform for hearing from our members on the issues most important to our region.

In February, members of our Legislative Committee spent several days in Tallahassee, just prior to the start of the Florida Legislative Session, meeting with our locally elected representatives in the Senate and the House of Representatives, legislative staff, and policy heads from the Florida Department of Transportation and Florida Department of Environmental Protection. We shared the Chamber's priorities and urged their consideration of local concerns.

Fast-forward to May and our state government wrapped up its regular 2023 Legislative Session, approving the largest budget in state history totaling $117 billion. It includes substantial investments in affordable and workforce housing, education, environmental, and health care spending as well as pay raises for state employees.

Overall, the 2023 regular session included:

• 1,851 bills filed, including special session

• 2,674 amendments filed

• 3,229 votes taken

• 366 bills passed, including special session, in both chambers of the legislation

Several of the Manatee Chamber priorities successfully made it over the finish line, including much needed financial assistance towards homeownership, a number of education and workforce initiatives as well as funding for important infrastructure projects. The legislature budgeted $711 million for affordable and workforce housing programs; almost $7 billion in transportation and infrastructure projects including the Moving Florida Forward Infrastructure Initiative designed to prioritize nearly two dozen critical infrastructure projects across the state including the widening of State Road 70 in east Manatee County.

Very early in the session, the house and senate also passed a comprehensive and meaningful lawsuit abuse reform package supported by the Florida Chamber of Commerce. The measure will begin the process of putting $5,000 a year back into the pockets of Florida families and begin to redirect the billions of dollars spent on frivolous lawsuits each year, enabling families and local businesses to use those dollars to invest back into their businesses.

The Chamber's Legislative Committee serves as a key resource by sharing perspectives from their industries as well as considering

the impact of issues on the entire business community and our area's quality of life. This committee meets primarily in the fall to develop our State and Federal Business Agenda, which then goes to the Chamber's Board of Directors for review and approval. The committee is often called upon to research and discuss a new bill or a new issue that has come up suddenly through the legislative process. The commitment of these members make our Chamber stronger and enhance our ability to quickly respond to requests from elected officials, government agencies, and our members. We will start developing our 2024 Business Agenda this fall, in preparation for the next legislative session (scheduled to start in January 2024). We need input from our members on issues that impact our community, policies that are barriers to continued economic expansion, and proposals that create an environment to support our members' ability to grow their businesses.

For more information on the Legislative Committee or other committee and task force involvement, contact Tara Poulton at TaraP@ManateeChamber.com or 941-748-4842, ext. 124.

The Chamber's Legislative Committee spent two days in Tallahassee to advocate for our state legislative priorities. These business leaders and local elected officials gave a voice to the issues of high importance to our members.

education & workforce

Volunteers Make a Big Impact through Project TEACH

On April 20, Manatee Chamber members and volunteers headed back to the classroom, speaking with fourth graders about career choices.

Now in its 30th year, Project TEACH (Teach Everyone About Career Horizons) is designed to help students begin to think about what they would like to be when they grow up. While students can easily imagine being a doctor, veterinarian, star athlete, video game designer or even a YouTube influencer, there are many career choices right here in our community that they aren’t familiar with including: high-tech manufacturing, skilled trades, business services, law enforcement, business ownership, hospitality, and so many others.

The morning started with an Orientation Breakfast at Wakeland Support Center and then volunteers headed to their classrooms. All in all, Chamber volunteers visited 141 classrooms.

An important aspect of the program is getting the students to begin thinking about what type of education they would need to land that dream job. Post-secondary education is important and with the great educational options in our region, students do not have to travel far to receive world-class training and find a career. Special thanks to the Manatee Education Foundation for serving as our presenting sponsor, the Pittsburgh Pirates and Bradenton Marauders for catering, and Wakeland Support Center for hosting the Orientation Breakfast.

If you are interested in volunteering for programs like Project TEACH or would like to be more involved with the Chamber’s education and workforce programs, please contact Michele Jones at MicheleJ@ManateeChamber.com.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Dr. Fradley, Principal of Rowlett Academy for Arts and Communication, volunteers at Stewart Elementary.

VENUE SPONSOR

CATERING SPONSOR

Project TEACH volunteers visit Manatee County fourth grade classrooms to guide activites designed to help students think about possible education and career pathways.

JUICE SPONSOR COOKIE SPONSOR

Tech Tip: Harness the Power of AI to Help Grow Your Business

By Rob Lederhilger, Soluency

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become increasingly popular as businesses recognize the potential it has for automation. Incorporating AI into your business strategy can improve efficiency and productivity. However, AI can also be overwhelming for beginners who have no prior experience using this technology. In this post we’ll dive into Jasper AI, but there are many options for helping you save time and say goodbye to writer’s block.

Are you tired of struggling to come up with effective emails, documents, social media posts, and other content for your business but don't have a clue how to harness the power of AI?

The Jasper platform provides an intuitive interface and a range of features to help your business grow. It’s especially helpful for small organizations that are just starting to learn how to use AI.

Jasper AI is an intelligent writing assistant that uses natural language processing (NLP) technology to create content quickly and easily. It eliminates the tedious task of manually creating content, but you’ll want to review the output to ensure it’s accurate and says what you want to say, how you want to say it. This is true of all AI!

Jasper is easy to set up and you can get started without the need for much technical experience. The platform comes with

several templates that can be customized to fit businesses' specific needs, making it an ideal tool for individuals with no prior experience with AI.

I’ve been using Jasper for the past 2 years and it’s an invaluable asset for my business. From creating emails and documents, to optimizing content on my website and social media, Jasper has saved me countless hours of manual work. As with any technology it's not always perfect, and AI in general still needs improvement. Despite this, I’ve found Jasper AI to be an incredibly useful tool that has helped my business grow.

Regional President

Chris Perkins Renee Brady Premier Private Banker Consumer Bank Market Manger

Carla Cummings

Join us for an Awards Ceremony as we celebrate local small businesses and non-profit organizations that exemplify the diversity, spirit, and community-mindedness that make Manatee County special. Cocktail and hors d'oeuvres reception to follow.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

A.L.L. About Kids Pediatric Dentistry

Apollo Medical Transport

Clark Financial Partners

Coastal Kapital LLC

Custom ComTek

Discover Bradenton

Harbor Chiropractic

Honors Interiors LLC

J&J Wealth Advisors

JLS Remodeling Services

Kava Social Club

L.E.T.S. Landes Emergency Training Services

Len's Roofing, Inc.

Moore Fowinkle & Schroer Agency, Inc.

Mr. Handyman Serving Sarasota & Bradenton

Ohana Embroidery LLC

One Stop Housing, LLC

Physical Therapy Doctors of Florida

Re3 Stem Cell and Healing Institute, PLLC

Rise to Shine Cleaning

Send Me Cyndee Travel

Star Academy of Dance & Aerial Arts

Stronger Moving & Delivery Service, Inc.

Urgent Dental Care

Your CBD Store Bradenton

Avenue941

Chargers Soccer Club at Lakewood Ranch

Early Learning Coalition of Manatee County Foundation for Dreams

Girl Scouts of Gulfcoast Florida, Inc.

Healthy Teens, Inc.

Manatee County Habitat for Humanity

Parenting Matters

The Twig Cares, Inc.

United Way Suncoast

SPOTLIGHT

It was November 1, 1975, when Chuck Brown and his late wife Cheryl first opened the doors of Brown and Sons Funeral Home & Crematory. Nearly 50 years later, the Brown family is still helping others navigate difficult times with compassion and sensitivity.

Both came from humble beginnings, Chuck from Cortez, Cheryl from Sarasota, and grew up with a deep appreciation for our local area. After Chuck completed his education in Cincinnati, Ohio, they moved the family back to the Bradenton area with the intention of starting their own business. Only one bank agreed to lend them money and with Cheryl’s day care as collateral they bought the lot at 5624 26th Street and built what is now the 26th Street Chapel.

With six of them sharing just 800 sq. ft. in part of the funeral home, the family had moved in just one day before opening on Halloween. Chuck’s memories of their first night are vivid; what he remembers most was the immediate sense of community, as the family was welcomed by neighbors and trick-or-treaters alike. He recalls Cheryl making new friends and getting the word out about their new business at the local laundromat those first few years, until she finally got her own machine. One thing that is clear as he reminisces about those early days is how much of their success he attributes to Cheryl. Whether she was growing the family business, supporting her children’s teams, raising funds for a new school stadium, running the Pittsburgh Pirates Boosters, serving her community, or just caring for her family; she was not just the Matriarch, “she was the heart of the Brown family”. Unfortunately, Cheryl passed away in August of 2022, but her memory lives on. The mark she left on everyone she met and the community is still felt.

Just like the song Cheryl loved by Simon and Garfunkel, Brown and Sons endeavors to be a Bridge Over Troubled Water for grieving families. At a time when

multi-generational family owned and operated businesses are rare, Cheryl and Chuck’s legacy lives on at Brown and Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory with three generations working at the business and continuing to serve their community.

Brown and Sons has two convenient locations and provides a variety of service offerings designed to meet the needs of each family including:

Interment Services

• Pre-Planning Arrangements

• Local Burials, Outof-town Burials or Graveside Services

• Direct Burial Services

Cremations

• Traditional Cremation Services; Church, Chapel, or Graveside Services

• Cremation with Celebration of Life Services

• Simple Cremation Services

26th Street Chapel

43rd Street Chapel

Cheryl Andreu Brown 6/21/47 - 8/6/22

Vintage newspaper advertisement.

myp manatee young professionals

MYP Upcoming Events

Social and a Show

Thursday, June 8

5:00 – 7:00 PM | Star Academy of Dance & Aerial Arts

Meet young professionals in a relaxed, after-hours setting and see some of Star Academy’s instructors twirl above the ground. Aerial opportunity is also available if you are feeling adventurous. Appetizers, drinks, and new friends are all included.

FREE for MYP Members | $20 Future MYP Members

Coffee & Conversation

Tuesday, June 13

7:45 – 9:00 AM | Manatee Chamber Bradenton Office

Join us for this fun morning networking opportunity to make powerful connections with other young professionals and leaders in the community. We will have the opportunity to meet Mayor Gene Brown and ask questions about upcoming projects and plans for Bradenton.

Free for MYP Members Only

Register for MYP Events

ManateeChamber.com/Events or Contact Debbie McDermott

941-748-4842, ext. 117 | DebbieM@ManateeChamber.com

THANK YOU FRIENDS OF MYP SPONSORS

MYP Behind the Scenes

For event date visit MYPonline.com

ABC 7 - WWSB

We are so excited for this new event where we will have a chance to visit ABC 7 – WWSB’s digital state-of-the-art facility and receive a special tour. Members will meet Jeff Benninghoff, Vice President and General Manager, learn about how the station operates, and receive valuable advice for professional growth.Field trip meets professional development opportunity!

$25 for MYP Members | $35 Future MYP Members

Lunch with Guest Speaker

Amanda Parrish of Fawley Bryant

Tuesday, July 25

11:45 AM – 1:00 PM | Nathan Benderson Park Finish Tower

Come explore the beautiful Nathan Benderson Park Finish Tower with fellow young professionals and meet Amanda Parrish, Chief Operating Officer of Fawley Bryant Architecture. She will give us some insider details about the building project and share her story. Enjoy lunch from Apple Spice Box Lunch Delivery and Catering and amazing views from the 5th and 6th floors.

$20 for MYP Members | $30 Future MYP Members

THANK YOU MYP WORKFORCE PARTNERS

Members collected five bags of trash and some other odds and ends plus got to enjoy kayaking at beautiful Robinson Preserve.

MYP Members paddle out for the Paddle & Pickup where community service and fun combined with the help of Manatee County Government’s Natural Resources Division.

MYP Launches New Series “Behind the Scenes” to Champion Professional Development

Did you know that there is more to MYP than socials and networking? Professional development and growth are key to our mission providing opportunities for young professionals to connect, lead, develop, and serve. In addition to our quarterly professional development seminars and lunch events, we are excited to announce a brand-new event series called “MYP Behind the Scenes.”

“MYP Behind the Scenes” will take young professionals on behind-the-scenes tours of local businesses to learn about diverse fields and the impact these businesses have within our community. These tours will also help young professionals make valuable connections with business leaders. “MYP Behind the Scenes” will give young professionals an up-close view of areas not readily available to the public, and give local businesses the opportunity to showcase a current project or demonstration and present a unique professional development topic.

In addition to benefiting our young professional MYP members, “MYP Behind the Scenes” will also offer our student members, in partnership with State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota and the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Campus, the opportunity to learn more about different career paths and make connections with business leaders in various industries in Manatee County.

If your business is interested in hosting an “MYP Behind the Scenes” event - or if you have a great idea for a location that you would like to visit - please contact Debbie McDermott, MYP Program Manager at DebbieM@ManateeChamber.com.

MYP Members cheer on the Marauders.

Manatee Young Professionals (MYP) members connected at LECOM Park for a Marauders baseball game during the April social, where MYP Chairman, Mitch Lomazov threw out the first pitch of the night.

Marty mingles with members on the boardwalk with a picture perfect sunset at the ballpark.

headliners

July: SRQ’s $72 million Expansion Project

What does it mean for businesses?

Featuring Rick Piccolo, President/CEO Sarasota Bradenton International Airport

Join Sarasota Bradenton International

Airport President and CEO, Rick Piccolo as he shares plans for several multimilliondollar construction projects designed to accommodate record-setting demand. The first four months of 2023 saw an 18% increase in passenger traffic over 2022.

The projects are expected to be complete by the end of 2023 and will increase the airport's capacity substantially, allowing airlines to add more flights. Find out what these projects and the future of SRQ mean for our businesses.

Wednesday, July 12

11:30 AM –1:00 PM | Peridia Golf & Country Club

4950 Peridia Blvd. E., Bradenton 34203

HEADLINERS SPONSORED BY

HEADLINERS RSVPs:

$35 for Chamber & MYP Members ($45 at the door)

$49 Future Members & Guests

Tara Poulton | 941-748-4842, ext. 124

TaraP@ManateeChamber.com | ManateeChamber.com/Events

Members of the Attainable Housing Panel field questions from the audience at the May Headliners event at the Palm Aire Country Club.

Disaster Preparedness

Presented by: Steve Litschauer

Deputy Director – Public Safety, Emergency Management Chief, Manatee County Government

With hurricane season starting June 1, don't leave the safety of you, your team, and your business to chance. Join our comprehensive disaster preparedness seminar - offered to Chamber members at no cost - and equip yourself with the essential knowledge to navigate through hurricanes, floods, tornados, and more.

It's important to have a disaster plan in place before the unexpected occurs and we'll tell you how. Topics will include:

• How to prepare your business for hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, and more.

• What you need in your disaster kits.

• What important information to safeguard.

Join us and learn how you and your business can become #ManateeReady.

Free for Chamber & MYP Members | $25 for Future Members

Wednesday, June 7 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM | Lakewood Ranch Office 4215 Concept Ct., Lakewood Ranch, 34211

SPONSORED BY

Seminar: Essentials HR for Small Business Owners

Presented by: DeAnna King King HR Services, Inc.

Join us for an insightful and empowering seminar on HR best practices, designed to equip small businesses with the knowledge and tools needed to foster a thriving and engaged workforce. This seminar will delve into the latest strategies and proven methodologies to optimize HR practices, enabling businesses to attract, develop, and retain top talent while achieving their growth goals.

$30 for Chamber & MYP Members | $45 for Future Members

Tuesday, June 20

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM | Bradenton Office 222 10th Street W., Bradenton 34205

SEMINAR RSVPs: Kristen Brusco | 941-748-4842, ext. 130 KristenB@ManateeChamber.com or ManateeChamber.com/Events

Celebrate and Connect with Our Healthcare Community at the 9th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards

JUNE 15 | 7:30 - 9:30 AM

GROVE Restaurant, Patio & Ballroom

10670 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch 34202

We received more than 50 outstanding nominations of deserving individuals, businesses, programs, and organizations for the 9th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards. Help us celebrate all that they do to contribute to the health of our community.

Our Awards Breakfast will offer fantastic networking while we honor the importance and impact of our healthcare industry and leaders who are making a difference.

Reservations: 941-748-4842, ext. 124 or ManateeChamber.com/Healthcare

Congratulations to These 2023 Award Winners Who Are Announced Prior to the Awards Breakfast

Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Bill Colgate, MD MCR Health / AllCare OPTIONS

Youth Volunteer Award Winner Gabriella Cortes-Alban Healthy Teens, State College of Florida Collegiate School

Finalists in Seven Additional Categories Listed Below ~ Winners in These Categories Will Be Revealed at the 9th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards Breakfast on June 15

Physician - Finalists

• Joshua Mali, MD, The Eye Associates

• Teresa Rawe, DO, True Partners

• Jeffrey Rothfeld, MD, FACC, Bradenton Cardiology Center

• Charles A. Tomeo, DMD, Tomeo, Tomeo & Rose

Nurse - Finalists

• Lisa Endick, RN, Trilogy Home Health

• Tony Enger, RN, HCA Florida Blake Hospital

• Amy Kimball, RN, Manatee Memorial Hospital

Allied Health Professional - Finalists

• Linda Chamberlain, Manatee Technical College

• Derek Whitecotton, PharmD, Lakewood Ranch Medical Center

• Charles Whitfield, M.Ed, Centerstone

Adult Volunteer Volunteer - Finalists

• Susan Harrigan, My Breast Friends 941

• Wilma “Karlene” Rowland, Manatee Memorial Hospital

Individual of Merit - Finalists

• Larry Luh, Retired Manatee County EMS

• Melvin Price, DPM, MCR Health / AllCare OPTIONS

• Paul E. Runge, MD, Sarasota Memorial Health Care System

Institution/Program - Finalists

• Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center

• SunCoast Blood Centers

• REACH Student Programs, Gulfcoast South Area Health Education Center

Innovation/Research - Finalists

• Robert Ferguson, MD, HCA Florida Thoracic Surgery

• Tracy Gapin, MD, FACS, Gapin Institute

Nominees

• Reynarichie Bragg, DACM, Dedicated Senior Medical Center

• Burn and Plastic Surgery Center, HCA Florida Blake Hospital

• Michael Burke, MD, Gulf Coast Pulmonary and Sleep

• The Center for Urgent Care

• Arthur J. Cohen, MD, JD, MBA, Turning Points Medical Clinic

• Ruth Davis, NP, Optum Healthcare

• Dwight Fitch, MD, Advocate Radiation Oncology

• Gulf Coast Pulmonary and Sleep

• Kohner Haller, Empath Health

• Health Services, Manatee County Government

• Ashley Metzger, PA, Cooper Family Medical

• Shirley Parrado, MAHR, MAM, LECOM, School of Dental Medicine

• Prime Health Urgent Care

• Carol F. Probstfeld, Ed.D, State College of Florida

• Stelio Rekkas, MD, Manatee Weight Lost Center

• Oryel Salazar-Castillo, HCA Florida Blake Hospital

• Brittany Tallhamer, DPT, OTR/L, CDP, Integrated Physical Therapy Services

• Howard Van Nostrand, BA, BS, DC, East of 75 Chiropractic

Thank You to Our Champions of Healthcare Awards Sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR SCHOLARSHIP SPONSOR

PROGRAM SPONSORS

CORPORATE SPONSORS

PRINTING SPONSOR A/V SPONSOR

Doras Davila, Vice President with Regions Bank presents the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The late Dr. George Van Buren, the 2022 Lifetime Achievement recipient, get his photo with Dilan Desir, the 2022 Youth Volunteer recipient.

2022 Champions of Healthcare finalists and winners pose for a photo after the program.

Businesses Connect Local at the Spring EXPO

Spring EXPO was all about connecting, shopping, and growing our local community by showcasing fantastic businesses and organizations here in Manatee County. This event drew over 500 hundred attendees and featured 80+ Chamber member booths promoting local products and services. Attendees enjoyed complimentary light bites provided by local restaurants and caterers, fun entertainment, dozens of door prizes, and a Grand Prize Giveaway.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

In a world where events can often take unexpected turns, it's the people who rise to the occasion that make a difference. Such was the case when an illness made Creative Service Manager Jocelyn Greene unable to attend the Spring EXPO, Melissa and Michael Gray and Chamber Staff stepped in last-minute to capture the memories.

networking events

Join fellow Chamber members for an evening of networking, complimentary drinks, light bites, and door prizes. These events are a great way to connect with the Chamber and meet and engage with fellow Chamber members to build valuable business connections.

Tuesday, June 13

4:30 - 6:30 PM

Turning Points

701 17th Ave. W., Bradenton 34205

Tuesday, July 11

4:30 - 6:30 PM

Flooring America

3200 Cortez Rd., Bradenton 34207

Start your morning off meeting and engaging with fellow Chamber members to build valuable business connections. Enjoy great networking, complimentary breakfast bites, beverages, and fun door prizes.

Thursday, June 22

8:00 - 9:30 AM

Hosted by Peace River Electric at Rosedale Golf and Country Club

5100 87th St. E., Bradenton 34211

Thursday, July 27

8:00 - 10:00 AM

Non-Profit Showcase at Keiser University

6001 Lake Osprey Dr., Sarasota 34240 $75 to reserve a booth for 501(c)3 Manatee Chamber Members

Registration Requested | FREE for Chamber Members | $25 Future Members ManateeChamber.com/Events or Contact Amanda Clover 941-748-4842, ext. 122 | AmandaC@ManateeChamber.com

Booth Registration Required

Booth Fee = $75

Includes: 4-foot table and 2 chairs

Must be 501(c)3

Thursday, July 27 | 8:00 – 10:00 AM

Keiser University | 6001 Lake Osprey Dr., Sarasota 34240

HOSTED BY:

Contact Amanda Clover 941-748-4842, ext. 122 | AmandaC@ManateeChamber.com

Enjoy a tasty meal, promote your business, and create great connections. Limited to 40 attendees (one per company) so that everyone can give a one-minute commercial on their business. Register early as these events always sell out.

POWER CONNECTION LUNCH

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

Wednesday, June 7

Rosedale Golf & Country Club 5100 87th St. E., Bradenton 34211

Wednesday, June 21

Oscura

816 Manatee Ave. E. #102, Bradenton 34208

Wednesday, July 5

Catered by: Poblanos Mexican Grill & Bar

Manatee Chamber | Lakewood Ranch Office 4215 Concept Ct., Lakewood Ranch 34211

Wednesday, July 19

Catered by: Pacific Counter

Manatee Chamber | Lakewood Ranch Office 4215 Concept Ct., Lakewood Ranch 34211

Registration Required for All Power Connection Events | Cost to Attend: $20

ManateeChamber.com/Events or Contact Misti Barnes

941-748-4842, ext. 172 | MistiB@ManateeChamber.com

SPONSORED BY:

New to the Chamber or need to brush up on your member benefits? Learn more about the Manatee Chamber, meet the staff, and let us help you take full advantage of your membership.

Tuesday, June 20 | 8:00 - 9:30 AM

Manatee Chamber | Bradenton Office 222 10th St. W., Bradenton 34205

ManateeChamber.com/Events or Contact Kristen Brusco

941-748-4842, ext. 130 | KristenB@ManateeChamber.com

SPONSORED BY:

Top BBC Referrals in March/April

Accounting, Bookkeeping and Tax Services

Assisted Living Care

Non-Profit Organizations

Welcome New BBC Members

Dave Silver Insurance/ DAS Marketing Concepts

The Brothers that just do Gutters Parkwood Dental Joint Chiropractic

business after hours

In addition to great food and wonderful conversation with friends new and old, we added some sizzle and fun with a stellar lineup of door prizes. It is always fun to put smiles on so many faces.

Bob Boast Volkswagen has been serving Manatee County, and investing in membership with the Manatee Chamber of Commerce, for more than 50 years. We take great pride in our commitment to our community and in providing the area with both high-quality vehicles and top-notch service.

Stop by anytime and let us help you find your next vehicle. We’d love to take you for a test drive! Call us with any questions you may have about buying or selling your vehicle. We value being your local auto resource.

BOB BOAST VOLKSWAGEN

4827 14th St. W., Bradenton 34207 888-505-6895 | boastvw.com

Town Square University Parkway was excited to host the Manatee Chamber Business

After Hours event in our newly opened Adult Day Enrichment Center. Town Square's adult day program is built on the principle of reminiscence therapy and our 1950s and 60s-themed environment was a great place for people across all businesses to meet, network, and reminisce!

What a pleasure to host so many people and share a little bit of what Town Square has to offer seniors who are struggling with cognitive or physical impairments and provide their caregivers with some much-needed help. Thank you to everyone that attended and for making it such a great evening!

TOWN SQUARE ADULT DAY CENTER

8450 Lockwood Ridge Rd., Sarasota 34243 941-277-5048

townsquare.net/adult-day-care/florida/sarasota

coffee club

Step Up Suncoast was delighted to host the March Manatee Chamber Coffee Club at our Parkland location. We hope you formed a meaningful connection - whether it was with a professional that fills a gap in your network or just one of our hungry, resident turtles!

It’s always a pleasure to educate others about our array of services and programs. Step Up Suncoast is a Community Action Agency serving the residents of Manatee, Sarasota, Hardee, Charlotte, and Desoto counties. Our programming is focused on empowering individuals and families by providing education and support on their path to self-sufficiency. We develop the family unit with our childhood development, parenting education and support, and speech screening programs. Clients can overcome financial hardships and build independence through Agency services, such as housing counseling, utility and housing assistance, free tax assistance, and home weatherization. Step Up Suncoast’s comprehensive programming has made a positive impact in our community since its founding in 1968.

If our mission resonates with you, we encourage you to donate through the Flanzer Trust, which is matching donations up to $3,000 in 2023, or spread the word about our services! If you have questions about Step Up Suncoast or are interested in volunteering, please call us at 941-827-2887, email us at info@stepupsuncoast.org, or visit our website at StepUpSuncoast.org.

6428 Parkland Dr, Sarasota 34243 941-827-2887 | stepupsuncoast.org

Our team at Dignity Memorial including Robert Toale and Sons and Groover Funeral Homes certainly enjoyed hosting the Manatee Chamber Coffee Club once again and featuring our newest location in Lakewood Ranch. We appreciate fellow chamber members who came out to see the new state of the art facility and were overjoyed with the comments we received about our contemporary facility.

As many saw at the event, we have adapted our memorials into a celebration of life aspect. As such, many of our families have described a more uplifting and meaningful celebration experience. We also have created a warm space for hosting events in the community and have had several in the past 12 months.

We certainly hope you may consider any of our facilities throughout Manatee County when needing funeral related services or for more joyous events. Thank you for visiting the Robert Toale and Sons Celebration of Life Event Center at Lakewood Ranch.

ROBERT TOALE & SONS

CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTER

4310 Solutions Ln., Bradenton 34211 941-932-8100

dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/bradentonfl/robert-toale-sons-celebration-of-lifecenter/8586

welcome new members

365 DataCenters

365datacenters.com

(866) 365-6249

Information Technology

Amcorp LLC

amcorpmanufacturing.com

(254) 252-0627

Manufacturers

And Services

1635 W. University Parkway Sarasota, FL 34243 andservices.com

(941) 234-4050

Air Conditioning and Heating

Contractors

Aspire Poly Furniture LLC

717 Cattlemen Rd

Sarasota, FL 34232

aspirepoly.com

(941) 946-8887

Furniture and Furnishings

Bath Fitter

14261 Jetport Loop West, #8 Ft. Myers, FL 33913 bathfitter.com

(888) 277-2617

Kitchen and Bath Remodeling

BayFirst National Bank - Sarasota

2033 Main St Suite 101 Sarasota, FL 34237

bayfirstfinancial.com

(941) 306-3468

Banks and Banking

Beth L. Olson Weight Loss Coaching betholson.com

(515) 778-7343

Weight Loss and Weight Management

Black & Veatch Corporation

1715 N. Westshore Boulevard Tampa, FL 34206-0321

bv.com

(813) 281-0032

Engineering and Design Services

Blinds & Designs of Florida

4201 N. Washington Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34234

blindsanddesignsofflorida.com

(941) 360-9200

Blinds, Window Treatments, Draperies, Shutters

Blue Collar Roofing

1816 57th St.

Sarasota, FL 34243

bluecollarroofingfl.com

(941) 933-7663

Roofing Contractors

Blue Crest Insurance Agency 11065 Gatewood Dr

Bradenton, FL 34211

bluecrestagency.com

(941) 208-0222

Insurance

Bonefish Grill - Bradenton 7456 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL 34210 bonefishgrill.com

(941) 795-8020

Restaurants

Bravo Catering & More 3401 14th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205

(941) 238-7315

Catering

Business Designs Unlimited, LLC

bizdesignsunlimited.com

(407) 488-7591

Web Design and Development

Camelot Community Care

5569 Broadcast Court Sarasota, FL 34240

CamelotCommunityCare.org

(941) 254-4900

Consulting Services

Chick-fil-A Manatee & 43rd St. 4311 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, FL 34209 chick-fil-a.com

(941) 200-3880

Restaurants

Clearent by Xplor clearent.com

(209) 502-5646

Credit Card and Merchant Services, Payment Processing

CoAdvantage

101 Riverfront Blvd Bradenton, FL 34205 coadvantage.com

(516) 507-9573

Payroll and HR Services

Connect Sales, Coaching and Consulting connect-cscc.com

(941) 285-6856

Consulting Services

Couch Music Education Foundation 3704 16th Ave E. Palmetto, FL 34221

delcouchmusiceducationfoundation.org

(941) 545-4379

Music Lessons

Creative Air Solution creativeairsolution.com

(941) 545-5809

Air Conditioning and Heating Contractors

Danny's Pizzeria

7220 Manatee Ave. W. Bradenton, FL 34209 DannysPizzaFlorida.com

(941) 795-1111

Restaurants

Donte's Den Animal Sanctuary & Hospital

6801 283rd St. E. Myakka City, FL 34251 dontesden.org

(941) 219-3730

Animal Sanctuary

Dr. Joy - Your Prescription For Total Wellness drxjoy.com

(941) 702-4511

Health and Wellness

Elite Rhino Protection Services LLC

(941) 304-6194

Security Guards, Patrols, and Consulting Services

Elite Staffing Partners

216 53th Ave. W. Bradenton, FL 34207

elitestaffingpartners.com

(941) 932-4106

Employment, Recruitment and Temporary Staffing

EVTR

evtr.us

(941) 807-1415

Auto Maintenance, Repair / Collision, and Parts

Florida Behavior Support Autism Therapy Center

5216 4th Ave Cir. E. Bradenton, FL 34208

flbehaviorsupport.com

(941) 744-1211

Consulting Services

Florida Sign Company

1101 29th Ave West Bradenton, FL 34205 FloridaSign.com

(941) 747-1000

Sign Shops, Service and Installation

Fly AMI Parasail

6398 Marina Way

Holmes Beach, FL 34217

flyannamaria.com

(941) 799-0982

Activities and Amusements

Fred Astaire Lakewood Ranch

14415 State Rd. 70 E. Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 fredastaire.com

(941) 405-4983

Dance Studios

Glory Days Grill

8253 Cooper Creek Blvd. University Park, FL 34201

glorydaysgrill.com

(941) 360-3287

Restaurants

GSRFL, LLC

(704) 791-1379

Consulting Services

Health Coach - Vicky Palomo Bradenton, FL 34205

vickypalomo.com

(720) 758-0422

Health and Wellness

Heartsavers of Manatee, LLC

10869 79th St. E. Parrish, FL 34219

heartsaversofmanatee.com

(941) 500-9200

First Aid Training

Hello Media 284 Dahlia Ct Bradenton, FL 34212

hellomediasocial.com

(507) 259-1961

Internet Marketing and Search Engine Optimization

Incfile

17350 State Highway 249 Houston, TX 77064 incfile.com/florida-llc

(213) 302-8675

Tax Preparation and Consulting

Integrated Health Solutions

(443) 703-9954

Health and Wellness

Iriss Inc. 10306 Technology Terr. Bradenton, FL 34211 iriss.com

(941) 907-9128

Manufacturers

JLS Remodeling Services 4301 32nd St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205

jlsremodelingservices.com

(941) 841-0012

Remodeling, Home Repair and Improvements

JMI Resource 1930 Land O'Lakes Blvd Lutz, FL 33549 jmiresource.com

(813) 909-9466

Employment, Recruitment and Temporary Staffing

Keyser Insurance Group keyseragency.com

(877) 381-3570

Insurance

King HR Services Inc. 433 8th Ave. W. Palmetto, FL 34221 kinghrservices.com

(941) 518-9679

Payroll and HR Services

Lapero PO Box 320642

Tampa, FL 33679

lapero.io

(813) 336-2082

Web Design and Development

Lead 'Em Up leademup.com

(314) 803-8588

Business Consultants and Coaches

Lights On Realty

8263 US Hwy 301 N. Parrish, FL 34219

(941) 725-5050

Real Estate - Consultant and Development

Linger Lodge Restaurant 7205 85th St. Ct. E. Bradenton, FL 34202

lingerlodge.com

(941) 755-2757

Restaurants

Linger Lodge RV Park 7116 85th St. Ct. E. Bradenton, FL 34202 lingerlodge.com

(941) 739-9313

Recreational Vehicle Resorts

Miller Hall Gala 3401 14th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205

(941) 238-7315

Event and Meeting Venues

Miss Jodi's School of Dance 4418 SR 64 East Bradenton, FL 34208

missjodischoolofdance.com

(941) 961-8250

Dance Studios

Morrone's Italian Deli & Cafe 5913 53rd Ave. E. Bradenton, FL 34203

(941) 405-4529

Restaurants

Music Compound 4740 SR 64 East Bradenton, FL 34208 musiccompound.com

(941) 379-9100

Music Lessons

Orange Moon Interiors 3890 E. State Rd. 64, Unit #110 Bradenton, FL 34208 orangemooninteriors.com

(941) 567-6222

Interior Decorating Services

Orthodontic Specialists, Jeffrey S. Thompson, D.M.D. - Parrish 12355 US 301 N. Parrish, FL 34219 drjeffreysthompson.com

Orthodontists

Pierce Manufacturing 1512 38th Ave. E. Bradenton, FL 34208 piercemfg.com

(941) 748-3900

Manufacturers

Point South Realty

9040 Town Center Parkway Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 pointsouthflorida.com

(941) 529-8849

Real Estate - Residential

Purify: An Urban Sweat Lodge

8205 Nature's Way, Suite 115 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 purifysweatlodge.com

(941) 993-1931

Salon and Spa Services

Rainbow Restoration of Sarasota

1885 Porter Lake Dr. Ste. B Sarasota, FL 34240 moldsrq.com

(941) 225-4399

Water, Flood and Disaster Damage

Retina Associates of Sarasota

5634 Simonton Street

Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

retinasarasota.com

(941) 924-0303

Ophthalmologists, Optometrists, and Opticians

Rohring Results

1201 6th Ave W #100 Bradenton, FL 34205

RohringResults.com

(305) 330-6054

Internet Marketing and Search Engine Optimization

Rose Beauty Bar

5411 26th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34207

vagaro.com/roseebeautyybarr

(213) 446-2254

Dermatology and Skin Care

Sallee Technology LLC salleetech.com

(941) 900-9254

Information Technology

Scavengers Marketplace

2100 US Hwy 301

Palmetto, FL 34221

(941) 469-4918

Furniture and Furnishings

School of Rock - Lakewood Ranch

8741 SR 70 East Bradenton, FL 34202

schoolofrock.com/locations/ lakewoodranch

(941) 842-7625

Music Lessons

Schooley Mitchell Bradenton

628 Misty Pond Cl. Bradenton, FL 34212

schooleymitchell.com/bsmall

(941) 404-5657

Business Consultants and Coaches

Sidell Method

ellinsidell.com

(425) 503-2789

Business Consultants and Coaches

Southeastern Roofing & Construction

1226 N. Tamiami Trl. Sarasota, FL 34243 seroof.com

(844) 625-7663

Roofing Contractors

Spencer Capital, LLC spencercapital.us

(512) 845-5338

Business Brokers

SRQ Bins

srqbins.com

(941) 479-2808

Pressure Cleaning

Stop Slip Solutions, Inc. PO Box 110533

Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211

stopslipsolutionsinc.com

(941) 600-8031

Safety Products and Programs

Sunshine Painting

6014 17th St. E., Unit C Bradenton, FL 34203

sunshinepaintingfl.com

(941) 888-3101

Painting Contractors

Super Soccer Stars

soccerstars.com/swflorida

(248) 670-3158

Sports and Recreation

welcome new members

Trevesta Place Apartments

6415 Annapolis Loop Palmetto, FL 34221 trevestaplace.com

Vivid Studios 2524 Trailmate Dr. Sarasota, FL 34243

vividstudios.us

Wilson Links wilsonlinks.com

(941) 441-7290

Golf Services

(941) 666-8008

Restaurants

SYNERGY HomeCare of Bradenton

4304 32nd Street West Bradenton, FL 34205

synergyhomecare.com/flbradenton-34205

(941) 345-4839

Home Health Care and Companion Services

Thunder Marine Sarasota

1960 Whitfield Park Ave. Sarasota, FL 34243

thundermarine.com

(941) 896-9421

Marinas and Boat Supplies, Sales and Service

Thurber Financial Group

5266 Office Park Blvd., Ste. 203 Bradenton, FL 34203 thurberfinancial.com

(941) 909-1500

Mortgages and Brokers

(941) 292-0124

Apartments and Condominiums

Trust Roofing Trustroofing.com

(805) 895-2585

Roofing Contractors

Turning Tides with Dr. Hutch 6672 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL 34210 turningtideswithdrhutch.com

(941) 280-4673

Health and Wellness

Two Rivers Family Dental 515 27th Street East Bradenton, FL 34208

2riversfamilydental.com

(941) 253-0175

Dentists

VIP Scrubs

5507 Manatee Ave W. Bradenton, FL 34209

(941) 288-9777

Retail and Shopping

(941) 896-5219

Internet Marketing and Search Engine Optimization

VRB Tax & Consulting, LLC 435 12th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205 vrbcpa.com

(941) 345-1675

Tax Preparation and Consulting

Walters & Associates CPA's 5266 Office Park Blvd. Bradenton, FL 34203

WaltersAccounting.com

(941) 756-0700

Accounting, Bookkeeping and Tax Services

West Florida Trimlight westfloridatrimlight.com

(941) 210-5533

Landscape Lighting

Worksite 2579 Toledo Blade Blvd. North Port, FL 34289

worksiteemployee.com

(941) 677-0110

Payroll and HR Services

Yard House 115 University Town Center Drive Sarasota, FL 34243

yardhouse.com

(941) 536-0778

Restaurants

years of dedicated employment with the business since its inception.

Blalock Walters, P.A. is pleased to welcome attorney Laura Smidt to its real estate and leasing practice groups and attorney Robert Pollock to its business litigation practice group.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County inducted Bradenton City Mayor Gene Brown into the Alumni Hall of Fame and presented Ron Allen, President of NDC Construction Company, and his team with the Community Partnership Award for their dedication to supporting the organization’s mission.

Chicken Salad Chick was the recipient of the “New Chick on the Block” Award at the Chicken Salad Chick Conference.

Clark Financial Partners is excited to announce that Annie Clark has been selected to serve on the Board of Directors for F.E.L.T. (Feeding Empty Little Tummies).

Dutchcrafters presented five employees with the new Mortise and Tenon Award: Customer Service Specialist Lafe Bianche, System Administrator Matt Dobeck, Bookkeeper Gwen Heaton, Administrative Assistant / HR Specialist Delinda Smith, and Fulfillment Team Member Fang Wang. Showroom Furniture Specialist Lori Voelkel was given the Top Showroom Sales award. Steve Doe was also recognized with the Category Manager Award and Billy Adams with the Top Inside Salesperson Award for the second year in a row. The company was also named a 2022 Next 1000 company by Digital Commerce 360.

Fawley Bryant Architecture has been recognized for its exceptional workplace culture both locally and regionally. The Company was recently named in the top 10 places to work by SRQ Magazine for their 2023 Best Of issue and the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Best Places to Work in the Tampa Bay area.

Gettel Toyota of Bradenton was the only dealer in their district to be awarded the 2022 Southeast Toyota Elite Award. They were also ranked #57 in the Top 150 Dealership Groups in the U.S. for 2023 by Automotive News and are 2023 The DealerRater Consumer Satisfaction Award winners.

of longtime, dedicated and successful experience with the organization.

Icard Merrill annouces their Director of Administration, Kathy Miller, has been appointed to the Certification Committee for the Association of Legal Administrators (ALA) Certified Legal Manager (CLM) Program.

Kerkering, Barberio & Co., Certified Public Accountants, is pleased to announce Christine Fritz as our Learning and Development Manager, and the promotion of Kirk Bauer and James Hugglestone to firm Principals. Manatee High School announced Outstanding Alumni Award Honorees: Dr. Harry "Hank" Rennagel (1957) - Military/ Academic Achievement; Joey Wingate (1958) - Military Achievement; Linda Gartley Boone (1974) - Service & Support to MHS and MHS Alumni Association; Angelina "Angel" Colonneso (1986)Community Achievement; Jacqueline "Jacki" Dezelski (1989) - Professional Achievement; and Robert Martini (2002)Heroic Achievement.

Manatee Technical College students won 16 medals at the Florida SkillsUSA 2023 State Leadership and Skills Conference in Jacksonville. Four students won first place; five came in second, and seven took third place. Of the 16 medalists, 15 were in the college division, and one was in the high school division. Massage Therapy Connections is very excited to announce the newest addition, Mairin Kealey and Therapist of the month, Erica Fagan.

Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC was named on Accounting Today's Top 100 Firms list and moved up four spots to number 73. Director David Jahosky, a seasoned professional with extensive experience providing governmental advisory services, was also added to the team.

Morgan Stanley's John Vita was honored with the 11th Annual Distinguished Citizen “Good Scout” Award.

Oysters Rock Hospitality promoted HR Manager Nicole Davila Briggs who passed the first test to become a SHRM Certified Professional.

to Florida Suncoast Real Estate Realtors Brooke Mailloux 1st year recipient & Debi Reynolds a 3-year recipient, Barry & Sherry Grooms a 14 and a 16-year recipient of this prestigious award.

RE/MAX Alliance Group would like to announce that Michael Baker, REALTOR®, ABR®, SFR® has earned the REALTORS® Commitment to Excellence Endorsement from the National Association of REALTORS®.

Sport Clips Haircuts of Bradenton has been named a winner of the prestigious President's Circle Award given to top producing stores, for the second consecutive year.

Tandem Construction has promoted Gabriela Kaniuga to Project Manager. Turning Points earned a 2023 Gold Rating from the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) Quality Standards Program.

Member Testimonial

Since opening Home Helpers in 2015, the Manatee Chamber of Commerce has been a resource my business could rely on. The chamber staff has always taken the time to help me as an individual and support my business. Through our chamber membership, we have access to resources to build and promote our home care agency. Lastly, if you want to be involved in our community, the chamber has countless committees and community service opportunities, allowing members to engage in activities that meet their interests and schedules. I would highly recommend chamber membership for any organization in Manatee county.

- Jonathan Marsh Owner & Administrator Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton

ribbon cuttings

(941)

(941) 379-9100

CELEBRATING LOCAL BUSINESSES | TO CELEBRATE A RIBBON CUTTING

Please contact Kristen Brusco at 941-748-4842, ext. 130 | KristenB@ManateeChamber.com

Orthodontic Specialists, Jeffrey S. Thompson, D.M.D. – Parrish

Grand Opening

12355 US 301 N. Parrish, FL 34219

drjeffreysthompson.com

(941) 746-7226

Purify: An Urban Sweat Lodge Grand Opening

8205 Nature's Way, Ste. 115 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202

purifysweatlodge.com

(941) 993-1931

Turning Tides with Dr. Hutch Grand Opening

6672 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL 34210

turningtideswithdrhutch.com

(941) 280-4673

Pet Supplies Plus – Parrish Grand Opening

8900 US 301 N. Parrish, FL 34219 petsuppliesplus.com

(941) 993-7387

Pure Barre – Parrish Grand Opening

9482 Buffalo Rd. Palmetto, FL 34221

purebarre.com/location/parrish-fl

(941) 538-7778

Raining Berries

Grand Opening

8512 Cooper Creek Blvd., Ste. 104 University Park, FL 34201 rainingberries.com

(941) 567-7005

Two Rivers Family Dental Grand Opening 515 27th St. E., Ste 6 Bradenton, FL 34208

2riversfamilydental.com

(941) 253-0175

Trevesta Place Apartments Grand Opening 6415 Annapolis Loop Palmetto, FL 34221

trevestaplace.com

(941) 292-0124

Yard House Grand Opening 115 University Town Center Dr. Sarasota, FL 34243

yardhouse.com

(941) 536-0778

TRAVEL with the CHAMBER

Greece Island Hopper

Explore the Greek Isles with your fellow Manatee Chamber members. Flights from TPA, beautiful hotels, 14 meals, and a robust schedule of activities are all included. Visit Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. See the Acropolis and Parthenon, explore the colorful village of Ano Mera, visit the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, tour Akrotiri, an ancient city buried and preserved in volcanic ash, enjoy a wine tasting, and much more!

There are two departure dates for this trip as we expect two buses of adventurers. Choose between July 11, 2024 (ManateeChamber.com/ Greece11) and July 14, 2024 (ManateeChamber.com/Greece14).

Visit ManateeChamber.com/Travel or contact Carey Miller at 941-748-4842, ext. 113 for more information.

All-Inclusive | 11 Days | Starts at $5,899 per person

Cocktail Parties Private Events

Rich KnowlesChef/Owner

BBC Advisory Committee Meeting

4:00 - 5:00 PM | Bradenton Office

Power Connection Lunch

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM | Rosedale Golf & Country Club

Seminar: Business Disaster Preparedness

3:30 - 5:00 PM | Lakewood Ranch Office

Technology Committee Meeting

3:00 - 4:30 PM | Bradenton Office - Air & Energy Board Room

MYP Social

5:00 - 7:00 PM | Star Academy of Dance & Aerial Arts

Transportation Committee Meeting

8:00 - 9:00 AM | Bradenton Office - Air & Energy Board Room

MYP Coffee & Conversation

8:00 - 9:00 AM | Bradenton Office - Air & Energy Board Room

Business After Hours

4:30 - 6:30 PM | Turning Points

9th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards Breakfast

7:30 – 9:30 AM | The Grove

MYP Leadership Team Building Meeting 6:00 - 8:30 PM | LECOM Park

HOLD THESE 2023 CHAMBER EVENT DATES

August 16

Headliners Luncheon

September 13

Headliners Luncheon

- 4:30 PM | Via Zoom Power Connection Lunch catered by Pacific Counter 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM | Lakewood Ranch Office

MYP Connection Lunch 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM | Nathan Benderson Park

October 13

31st Annual Business & Education Partnership Awards

November 9

December 1

39th Annual Golf Tournament