Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
October 2011 Forum for Business
Citation preview
F O R B US INESS
BUY LAKELAND. It MAKEs GOOD cENts! LAKELANDchAMBEr.cOM
F O R B US INESS
BUY LAKELAND. It MAKEs GOOD cENts! LAKELANDchAMBEr.cOM
OCTOBER 2011 | VOl. xxI, NO. 10
L A K E L A N D A R E A C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E
2 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
C H A M B E R S TA F FK a t h l E E N l . M U N S O N
President [email protected]
B a R B a R a B E N N E t t Executive Assistant
S a l l y C h a p M a N Vice President, Finance & Administration
y a d I R a p . h O l M E S Vice President, Public Affairs
C a R O l y N J a C K S O N Senior Vice President, Member Relations
J a C q U E l I N E l . J O h N S O N Senior Vice President, Convention & Visitors Bureau
K a t I E M C B R I d E - M C K E N z I E Membership Account Executive
C h R I S t I N E M U R p h y Administrative Assistant, Member Relations | Public Affairs
N I K K I O a K l E y Membership Account Executive
t E R R y O t t I N g E R Vice President, Membership Development
p a t t y S M I t h Administrative Assistant, Membership Development
Visitor Information Specialist [email protected]
R E v E N a t h O M a S Administrative Assistant, Communications
Convention & Visitors Bureau [email protected]
a M y W I g g I N S Vice President, Communications
35 laKE MORtON dRIvE pO BOx 3607
laKElaNd, Fl 33802-3607 (863) 688-8551
laKElaNdChaMBER.COM
© 2011 lakeland area Chamber of Commerce. all rights reserved. the lakeland area Chamber of Commerce reserves
the right to refuse certain advertising and is not liable for advertisers claims and/or errors. the opinions expressed
herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the position of the Chamber.
l a K E l a N d a R E a C h a M B E R O F C O M M E R C E F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S M O N t h l y
a l I C E h U N t | C h a I R M a N O F t h E B O a R dhunt ConstruCtion of CentraL fLorida, inC.
K a t h l E E N l . M U N S O N | p U B l I S h E RLaKeLand area ChaMber of CoMMerCe
a M y S . W I g g I N S | E d I t O RLaKeLand area ChaMber of CoMMerCe
C E d E S I g N C O . | C R E a t I v E d I R E C t I O N & p R O d U C t I O NWWW.CedesignCo.CoM
$5 Chamber Member ~ $15 Non Chamber MemberYour R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit LakelandChamber.com to register.
& BreakfastOctober 13, 2011
7:30 a.m.1317 George Jenkins Blvd
Lakeland Habitat for HumanityLakeland Economic Development Update
Lakeland
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 3
YOUR PATH FOR ACHANGING TOMORROWYOUR PATH FOR ACHANGING TOMORROW
Traviss 863.499.2700 Ridge: 863.419.3060
The Chamber has many missions including local, state and national lobby efforts, encouraging member networking, developing local leadership and supporting pro business initiatives in our community. Yet arguably the Chamber’s most important mission is to create a sense of community where our business members can come to find help, support and solutions.
The challenges of owning a business and being responsible for its health are unique and are best understood and appreciated by others that have faced the same challenges and successfully overcome them. Every business owner has wondered “why do I keep making the same hiring mistakes”? How do I grow my business without adding even more hours to an already packed work day? How do I exit my business one day and realize value for the effort and care I’ve put in it?
There aren’t many people that you can talk to about these issues. Those that haven’t been in your shoes don’t understand and honestly, we’re all a little reluctant to admit to our fellow business owners that we don’t have all the answers. The truth is that while all of us in business tend to wrestle with the same basic issues, none of us have all the answers we need on our own.
ThE gooD nEwS IS ThAT ChAMBER’S PRIMARy MISSIon IS To SuPPoRT ThE EFFoRTS AnD FoSTER ThE SuCCESS oF ouR BuSInESS MEMBERS. It’s the place you can come to ask for ideas, thoughts and help from those that have successfully navigated the issues you are now facing. Every business that has grown and prospered has gone through a very predictable set of growth steps and often has succeeded because they’ve received help and advice from another successful business that went before them.
The Chamber will be sending all our members a survey every 4-6 months asking what support, training and talent development you need. It can range from things like industry specific certifications and computer software training to Six Sigma or lean certifications, to personal development issues like delegation, leadership training and balancing your personal and professional life. We know the average Chamber member employers have fewer than 4 employees and the people that desire the training may be a half or a third of your workforce so we’ll ask you specific questions like, what time of day and day of week works best and whether you want classroom style training or remote learning?
Please let us know where the current “sticking spots” are that you are wrestling with. Working together with your fellow members you will find there are solutions.
Sincerely,stEvE MOOrEFloRIDA PRoPERTy & DEVEloPMEnTVice Chair, Education & Talent Development
As a locally owned and operated CPA firm, Wall Foss is proud to provide prompt and personalized CPA services. Our close proximity to our clients allows us to remain grounded and understand the marketplace where our clients live and work. We identify opportunities for significant savings through careful planning and execution. Wall Foss is here, today and always, to solve problems, build relationships, and grow your wealth.
F I N A N C I A L P L A N N I N G . C E R T I F I E D P U B L I C A C C O U N T A N T S . I N V E S T M E N T S
212 East Highland Drive | Lakeland, FL | 863.683.0708 | wallfoss.com
ROOTSDEEP
O U R
R U N
often, it is less expensive to educate an existing employee than to hire and train a new employee.
RTG has an in-house training program that is directly applicable to our specific educational needs. We also make available some tuition benefits for distribution associates to improve skills for their positions or to qualify for promotions. We work hand-in- hand with Polk State Corporate College where many of our supervisors and managers have taken
is often viewed as an expense, when in reality it is an investment. John Zapata, Senior Vice President of Distribution, Rooms To Go, says “retraction of training during an economic downturn is a missed opportunity.” During slow economic times, employers should invest in employee training and development. This can help companies make it through tough times and help keep good employees, which in turn increases the company’s productivity and profitability. Most
a MARKETINGM I N U T Ew o r t h m i l l i o n s
employees. For years, the belief was that salary was the source of employee happiness and retention; however, recent studies have shown that employees also value challenging opportunities and learning. Employees know that specialized training enhances their professional prospects and makes them more marketable.
In today’s marketplace upgrading skills and continual learning are vital for both companies and employees.Unfortunately, employee training and development
Employer education and training programs are truly empowering to employees, adding not only knowledge to the workforce, but also energy, motivation and loyalty. According to a survey conducted by Spherion ( found on AllBusiness.com), 61% of respondents who received training or mentoring said they were likely to remain with their current employers for the next five years or more.
Many management experts agree that the greatest key to productivity is happy
CARLA MORGANRoomS To Go FuRnITuRE InC.Director of SuperviSory training
] C O N N E C TRoomsToGo.com
advantage of their programs. Tuition assistance has been offered through PSC grant monies and RTG training funds; and employees contribute a percentage themselves.
Learning is a lifelong process and those who continue to develop are the ones who distinguish themselves and help to distinguish their employers as well. Employees are the principle asset for any business. Investing in them will pay dividends now and for years to come.
EmpowEring EmployEES with Educational BEnEfitS
opportunities with inmates. I’ve received high-risk clearance, and I use this opportunity to counsel individuals on uncomplicated business opportunities such as construction, lawn care/landscaping, IT services, virtual services, etc. With proper counseling and planning for ventures like these, former inmates can jump many rings on the employment ladder, or may not need it at all!
Because recidivism can run 60-80%, I take my work very seriously. If I can relay to inmates that there are free
services available to those who are committed to finding employment or starting a business, I know that I can reduce their chances of returning to prison.
SCORE counseling is couched in the
SCORE was founded in 1964 as a national resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Through 364 local chapters (including Central Florida SCORE), volunteer counselors provide free, confidential expertise on starting, growing and succeeding in business. Because of this expertise, SCORE was a natural fit for providing pre-release counseling for prison inmates.
In Polk County, I am the only business counselor to discuss post-release
The reality for inmates post release is that they typically find themselves on the bottom rung of any employment ladder. Factor in the current economic climate and job market and they essentially can’t even get to the ladder.
While it varies by prison, inmates are identified between six-months and one-year pre-release as needing post-release training in areas of social behavior, employment tactics, legal resources and family/child assist types of people resources.
RICHARD PELLEGRINIPIlGRIm ASSoCIATES Score volunteer
Central Florida SCORE SHARES Expertise
] C O N N E C TCentralFloridaScore.org
Polk Jail Ministry curriculum. Pre-release efforts can be challenging to track, but post-release, SCORE continues to work with former inmates to develop business plans, manage cash flow and encourage success.
6 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
A M O N T H LYHOWTO
D e v e l o p i n g H u m a n C a p i ta l : K e e p i n g U p W i t h W o r k f o r c e C h a n g e s
Most experts agree that human capital, employees, ranks very high or at the top of any company’s list of assets. Along with the importance of recruiting the right person for the right job comes the responsibility of retaining and growing them through professional development and training.
Two years ago, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors established several key strategic issues to guide the Chamber’s focus. Utilizing the newly announced “Six Pillars” visioning program of the Florida Chamber Foundation as a guide, local leaders recognized the same critical factors determining Lakeland’s future. A key need in building Florida’s and Lakeland’s future is workforce quality. Identified by the Florida Chamber as Talent Supply & Education, the board adopted Talent Development & Education locally. Steve Moore (Florida Property and Development) accepted the responsibility of chairing the newly formed committee.
At that time, educational institutions had begun to announce that students were being trained for jobs that would only exist
opportunities have long been a benefit of chamber membership for small companies. Hoping to enhance the opportunities available to small business employers, the KSI initiated a Talent Development Roundtable, welcoming insight from training providers, educators and funding sources in order to provide world-class training at affordable prices. Collectively, 1,600 businesses representing 86,000 employees can access more than 1 business with 2 employees.
To begin, the Roundtable conducted a survey of Chamber members. With input from you, the Roundtable
is now on course to determine the most desirable training times, critical needs, CEUs that are currently sought out-of-county and more. In the near future, this Roundtable will begin to offer the classes that the survey revealed were priorities – at prices that small business can afford.
As the face of the workforce continues to change, the Chamber will continue to bring resources to members and to connect members to one another. Together, with the proper training and skills, we will build the future of Lakeland.
able to promote the WE3 Workforce Education Expo. Recognizing that the future of Lakeland’s workforce is dependent on the quality of education received, the KSI was instrumental in identifying professionals in Lakeland to serve as counselors, develop curricula and provide internships for the career academies located throughout the County. The Chamber has also participated in developing a model of the Polk County career academies program for the Ford Next Generation Leadership grant.
In 2011, the committee steered focus to talent development. Professional development
in the future, and new technology was being developed at lightning pace. With support from education providers, board members and advocates, the newly formed “KSI” identified training, retraining, education, and certification as areas of focus.
With a focus clearly outlined, the group began to identify opportunities to add value in the areas of talent development & education to the Chamber’s relationships with member business.
In its first year, the KSI tackled the education portion of its purpose. By partnering with Polk County Public Schools, the KSI was
CAROLyN JACKSONlAkElAnd AREA CHAmbER oF CommERCESenior vice preSiDent, MeMber relationS
] C O N N E C TLakelandChamber.com
FlORIda tEChNICal COllEgERoB EVAnS(863) 619-6200www.FTCCollEgE.EDu
Florida Technical College in lakeland offers medical programs over 8-11 months in medical billing and Coding, Patient Care Technician, and medical Assistant Technician. We also offer 18-month AS degrees in medical Administration, medical Administrative Assistant, business management and Technology, and Criminal Justice.
FORtIS INStItUtEDIAnA SIMMonS (863) 646-1400 ExT. 3720www.FoRTIS.EDu
Provides training in a variety of medical diploma fields: Emergency medical Services, medical Assistant, medical Insurance Coding Specialist and Pharmacy Technician. Programs focus on hands-on training and include externships to put skills into practice. Fortis Institute is licensed by the Florida department of Education and is accredited nationally by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET).
pERpEtUal tEChNOlOgy SOlUtIONS AnThony BuRTS(863) 226-4133www.PT-SoluTIonS.CoM/lEARnIngCEnTER
our learning Center gives business clients and individuals an avenue to learn and maximize various types of application, technical and professional development training. In addition, we provide e-learning as an option to help businesses and individuals better leverage their time and budgets to acquire additional. both instructor lead and e-learning materials assist in preparation where certifications are needed.
pOlK StatE COllEgE CORpORatE COllEgERoB ClAnCEy(863) 669-2326www.Polk.EDu/CC
The Corporate College is committed to enhancing the performance of public and private organizations throughout Florida. The renowned Corporate College faculty members are industry-proven trainers and experts that have both national and international experience in delivering training solutions on a wide variety of subjects. These experts address current trends, teach new skill sets, and lend their expertise to help organizations sustain a competitive advantage.
tEaM tRaININg UNlIMItEdkEnny STuRgEon(863) 214-6626www.TEAMTRAInIngunlIMITED.CoM
TTu provides highly customized, interactive and immediately applicable leadership development, Team building, and business Skills training. Specific workshops and services include: Experiential Team building, meeting Facilitation, Conflict Resolution, leadership Communication, Social media, Assessments: Change Styles Indicator, myers briggs Type Indicator, dISC, EQ
tRavISS CaREER CENtERDR. wAynE DICkEnS(863) 499-2700www.TRAVISS.EDu
Traviss offers a wide range of programs in various subject areas. They are: Academic Education, Adult General Education, Architecture & Construction Careers, Arts, A/V Technology & Communication Careers, business management & Administration Careers, Health Science Careers, Hospitality & Tourism Careers, Human Services Careers, manufacturing Careers, Transportation, distribution & logistics Careers and various other specialized programs.
WaRNER UNIvERSItyEnRollMEnT MAnAgEMEnT (800) 497-2972www.wARnER.EDu
Warner university strives to graduate individuals who exemplify academic excellence and Christian character, who are prepared to lead and committed to serve. Warner graduates have benefited from the encouragement and guidance of highly-qualified professors and now serve as successful businessmen and women in their communities, many in the professional fields of education, ministry, medicine, law, public administration and social services.
WEBStER UNIvERSItyAngIE BIRDwEll (863) 687-9309www.wEBSTER.EDu/lAkElAnD
Webster university, a worldwide institution, has provided outstanding higher education to the lakeland area since 1999. Webster’s small classes provide students with the attention and interaction to encourage both academic growth and personal development. The university responds to the diverse needs of students by designing and structuring programs that serve the individual, and ensure that each student’s education is a successful blend of theoretical and practical knowledge.
rOUNDtABLE MEMBErs
HELPINGYOU LIVEBETTEREach day at the Y, families are coming together to get healthy. Children are engaging in physical activites, learning social skills and building self-confidence. Parents are enjoying working out on our cardio equipment and participating in group fitness classes while knowing their children are in a safe, nurturing environment.
Ask us about our affordable membership and program rates for everyone. Call 863.644.3528 or visit www.ymcawcf.org.
At the Y, we make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 7
8 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
C O V E R F E AT U R E B y S t a C y C a M p B E l l - d O M I N E C KpoLK WorKs WorKforCe deveLopMent board
R e d u c e . R e t a i n . R e - I n v e s t
3the Prescription for Small BusinessSuccess
Believe it or not, despite high unemployment rates, a significant number of Polk County businesses are experiencing difficulty finding qualified applicants for current job openings. There is ongoing evidence that skills shortages are stifling job growth. Employers are expressing that, while they have openings or would like to hire, the candidates that compete for these jobs may not have the skills to perform them. At the same time employers are apprehensive about the prospects of an economic recovery. Uncertainty, coupled with a skills gap for potential jobs, is an inviting challenge for public investments in the local workforce and economy.
Recognizing that businesses cannot readily expand unless they can find workers with the skills to perform these jobs safely and effectively, Polk Works offers two unique training opportunities for employers, Competitive Edge Training Awards and On-the-Job Training. By taking advantage of these opportunities, businesses can address the skill needs of workers and their companies, while also allowing for rapid employment or reemployment. These tools can reduce turn-over and help employers grow their own talent, while avoiding significant turnover costs. Employers have the opportunity to positively affect their employees and at the same time improve the company’s bottom line.
The need for training (to mitigate the skills gap) is especially acute for dislocated workers transitioning to new industries, long term unemployed individuals updating their skills to catch up with emerging technologies, and low income and entry level workers seeking to start their careers in the worst economic climate in recent history.
Employers understand all too well the cost of hiring and training good employees. In many cases, candidates have the right combination of enthusiasm and intelligence, but lack the specific skills needed for the job. This is where the On-The-Job or Competitive Edge grant (customized training) can help your Polk County business save money while turning a great candidate into a productive and profitable employee.
on-thE-JoB training reimburses employers 50 percent of the wage rate of the individual for the extraordinary costs of providing the training and increased supervision related to the training. It also provides knowledge or skills essential to the full and adequate performance of the job. This program helps employers grow their own talent and assists in reducing turnover.
compEtitivE EdgE training Awards benefit employers by paying up to 50 percent of the cost of the training and are designed to meet the specific needs of the employer, especially in the area of introducing new technologies. Training can also be provided to employees in order to upgrade their skills and knowledge.
As businesses consider the return of training investments, these tools are available to mitigate some of the financial risks involved, allowing businesses to consider other strategic financial investments.
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 9
Reduce Your Turnover Cost by nearly $40,000!
Retain Good talent in your company by retooling and upgrading the skills of your workers
Re-invest In the economy by producing more goods and increasing your bottom line success!
tRaining woRkeRs can be a tRemendous dRain on a business’s time and financial ResouRces. HoweveR consideR tHese facts:
tRaining incReases employee pRoductivity
In addition to learning how to complete new tasks and take on more responsibility, employees can learn advanced techniques to help them complete everyday tasks more efficiently. For example, sending your bookkeeper to an advanced Excel class may help him or her learn shortcuts to simplify the accounting processes.
tRaining Reduces tuRnoveR
Employees who don’t receive guidance or have difficulty learning the ropes are much more likely to leave your company. Employees are less likely to leave if they have the opportunity to learn new skills and keep up to date with industry skills.
tRaining impRoves job satisfaction
Investing time and money in employees’ skills makes them feel valued and appreciated, and it challenges them to learn more and get more involved in their jobs. Higher job satisfaction ultimately results in reduced turnover and higher productivity.
tRaining aids in tHe RecRuiting pRocess
If you’re committed to training, you’ll be more willing to hire a desirable candidate who lacks a specific skill. Training also makes your company more attractive in the eyes of potential employees because it shows them that they have room to grow and accept new challenges.
tRaining RewaRds long-time employees
You’ll be more willing to promote existing employees who have learned new skills and are ready to take on new challenges.
tRaining Reduces tHe need foR employee supeRvision
Not only does skill-based training teach employees how to do their jobs better, but it also helps them work more independently and develop a can-do attitude.
s m a l l b u s i n e s s o f t h e m o n t harea director of the Florida Society of Hearing Healthcare Professionals. He enjoys networking with his local business peers and learning about innovations in the industry. Preston is a member of the local Lions Club, who likes helping people of all ages with their hearing needs.
His patients appreciate his dedication. This is evidenced by the many recent referrals from his existing patients, including adult children
His office focuses on providing a wide range of hearing aid models, including open fit with no ear mold and wireless technology. His many years of experience help him in researching which products work best for each patient. Preston and his staff provide continued service beyond the sale, with free adjustments and cleaning. He is also able to provide on site repairs.
Preston Craft is a member of the International Hearing Society, and he is
evaluation, and consultation to help improve patients’ hearing and understanding. He explains that the sooner someone gets help, the better the results. “Often, people have waited a long time to address their hearing issues. They have lost the ability to filter background noise from their hearing focus. If you have friends or relatives that complain their hearing aids make everything too loud in a crowd, this is because they have lost this ability to filter the different levels of noise.”
Preston Craft, is a licensed audioprosthologist, which is a hearing aid specialist. He opened his office on Crawford Street in Lakeland in 1985, after gaining experience working with his mother and stepfather in their Lake Wales office. His daughter, Kayla Johnson, recently joined his staff. This addition represents three generations that have been providing hearing aid sales and service to Polk County residents.
Preston performs hearing testing,
of patients. Preston Craft Hearing Aids is prepared to provide caring sales and service.
The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Preston Craft Hearing Aids as the Small Business of the Month for September.
sMaLL business of
the Month CoMMittee
MeMber terri
goLeno (CheathaM,
goLeno, & ferguson,
p.a.), presents the
septeMber sMaLL
business of the Month
aWard to preston
Craft, preston Craft
hearing aids. aLso
present to aCCept
the aWard Were Janet
Lafond and KaYLa
Johnson.
10
B y : t E R R I g O l E N O , CheathaM, goLeno, & ferguson, p.a.
FOr MOrE INFOrMAtION ON sOME OF thE rEqUIrEMENts FOr thE sMALL BUsINEss AwArD AND tO vIEw prEvIOUs rEcIpIENts, pLEAsE vIsIt LAKELANDchAMBEr.cOM/BUsINEssrEsOUrcE.
PRESTON CRAFT HEARING AIDS510 E Crawford St Lakeland, FL 33805 (863) 687-8420 F: (863) 688-9568
] C O N N E C TPrestonCraftHearing.com
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 11
MATTERSTH
E
W a N t t O K N O W W h y B E I N g a M E M B E R O F t h E l a K E l a N d a R E a C h a M B E R I S S O B E C O M I N g ? R E a d O N . . .
C a l E N d a R E v E N t h I g h l I g h t S R I B B O N C U t t I N g SN E W M E M B E R S
O F
WhO WIll BE NExt tO ShOWCaSE thE laKElaNd ChaMBER ChaMpIONS’ CUp?
Bright house networks presents the 21st Annual lakeland Chamber scramble—thursday, november 10 at lone Palm Golf Club—offering members time to re-connect, network, entertain clients and enjoy being outdoors on an extraordinary course at a time of year Floridians truly appreciate! one of lakeland’s premier golf events, the scramble serves as an important fundraiser allowing the organization to fulfill its mission to sustain a strong business climate in our community.
the unique six-person format encourages serious golfers and those just looking for an afternoon of fun and excitement! several levels of sponsorship and playing opportunities allow for participation from small businesses to large companies. with a limited number of spaces available, you’ll want to register today!
lakelandChamber.comTHURSDAY, NOVEMBER 1011 A.M. LUNCH & REGISTRATION
NOON SHOTGUN START4:30 P.M. AWARDS RECEPTION
Special Contests & Prizes
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIESDOUBLE EAGLE SPONSOR: $2500AWARDS RECEPTION SPONSOR: $2500DRIVING RANGE SPONSOR: $500CLOSEST TO THE PIN SPONSOR: $500LONGEST DRIVE SPONSOR: $500HOLE SPONSORS: $100 (each)PRIZE SPONSORS: Donate a prize andreceive recognition at the reception!
» MEN’S and WOMEN’S TOURNAMENT
» IF YOU DON’THAVE A SIX-SOME,WE’LL GET ONE TOGETHERFOR YOU!
ENTRY FEES$150 PER PERSONIncludes greens fee, cart, lunch,beverages and Awards Reception
$175 PER PERSONIncludes greens fee, cart, lunch,beverages and Awards ReceptionINCLUDING ENTRY INTO ALL CONTESTS
BONUS PACKAGE$1100 PER TEAMINCLUDES 6 PLAYERS, ENTRY INTO ALLCONTESTS AND HOLE SIGN!Total Savings of $50
SIX PERSONSCRAMBLE
For more informationvisit LakelandChamber.com
or call (863) 688-8551, Ext. 223 or 242
Sponsored byGraphic Design | Craig Advertising, Inc.
sAvE thE DAtE
LaKeLand ChaMber
scrAMBLE
12 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
thURSday, OCtOBER 13BUSINESS & BREaKFaSt 7:30 a.m.lakeland Habitat for Humanity1317 George Jenkins blvd
thURSday, OCtOBER 20EMERgE gEtS tRaShEd (SORt OF) 8:00 a.m.Republic Services3820 maine Ave
thURSday, OCtOBER 20BUSINESS aFtER hOURS 5:30 p.m.mcGee Auto Service and Tires3939 uS Highway 98 S
MONday, OCtOBER 10 EMERgE laKElaNd StEERINg COMMIttEE3:45 p.m.
tUESday, OCtOBER 11talENt dEvElOpMENt & EdUCatION 3:30 p.m.
WEdNESday, OCtOBER 12gOvERNMENt aFFaIRS 8:00 a.m.
WEdNESday, OCtOBER 12BUSINESSvOICE OF gREatER laKElaNd 9:00 a.m.
WEdNESday, OCtOBER 19ExECUtIvE COMMIttEE MEEtINg 4:00 p.m.
thURSday OCtOBER 27SCORE BUSINESS ROUNdtaBlE 7:30 a.m.Chamber Briefing Room
thURSday, OCtOBER 27aNNUal BOaRd OF dIRECtORS plaNNINg REtREat 8:00 a.m
FRIday, OCtOBER 28aNNUal BOaRd OF dIRECtORS plaNNINg REtREat 8:00 a.m.
13thUr
10MON
27thUr
o c t o b e r 2 011 d at e s
thUr20
wED12
FrI28
11tUEs
wED19
31
24
17
10
3
25
18
11
4
26
19
12
5
27
20
13
6
28
22
15
8
29
23
16
9
30
21
14
7
2monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday sat sun
1
EMERgE laKElaNd StEERINg COMMIttEE3:45 p.M.
talENt dEvElOpMENt & EdUCatION 3:30 p.M.
gOvERNMENt aFFaIRS 8:00 a.M.
BUSINESSvOICE OF gREatER laKElaNd 9:00 a.M.
BUSINESS & BREaKFaSt 7:30 a.M.
ExECUtIvE COMMIttEE MEEtINg 4:00 p.M.
EMERgE gEtS tRaShEd(SORt OF) 8:00 a.M.
BUSINESS aFtER hOURS 5:30 p.M.
SCORE BUSINESS ROUNdtaBlE 7:30 a.M.
aNNUal BOaRd OF dIRECtORS plaNNINg REtREat 8:00 a.M.aNNUal BOaRd OF
dIRECtORS plaNNINg REtREat8:00 a.M.
NOvEMBER 1-2WE3: WORKFORCE EdUCatION CONFERENCE The lakeland Center
NOvEMBER 1021St aNNUal ChaMBER SCRaMBlElone Palm golf Club
NOvEMBER 18aNNUal ChaMBER CaRBqPortable BBQ lunch
E v e n t H I G H L I G H T S
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 13
BUSINESS aFtER hOURS 01 | Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub provided a perfect atmosphere for meeting and networking!
02 | Members search for one another in the Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub 20th Anniversary balloon game
03 | Chamber Chair Alice Hunt presents a plaque of appreciation to Bruno DeZayas of Harbsmeier Dezayas, LLP as a partner in the August Business After Hours.
04 | Chamber Chair Alice Hunt presents a plaque of appreciation to Tim Bosko of Beef O’Brady’s Family Sports Pub as a partner in the August Business After Hours
NEW MEMBER RECEptION 05 | The Pilot Bank lobby provided new and veteran members an opportunity to meet and share.
06 | Pilot Bank Manager Scott Katz welcomes new members at the August New Member Reception.
BUSINESS & BREaKFaSt 07 | There wasn’t a movie showing, but members packed the media room at Valencia Hills for a special presentation from Verizon.
08 | Administrator Mike Bradley welcomes Business & Breakfast attendees to the special media room at Valencia Hills Health & Rehabilitation Center.
01
03 04
02
0605
07 08
14 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
aRtFUl JOURNEyS4175 mEdullA RdlAkElAnd, Fl 33811(863) 709-1088lAuRIESARTFulJouRnEYS.ARTFIRE.ComlAuRIE A. FullERRETAIl
aUdy’S StEElERS StUFF2034 EdEnFIEld Pl, unIT 1lAkElAnd, Fl 33801(863) 665-5038AudYSTEElERSSTuFF.ComAudY A. REEVESSPoRTS mERCHAndISE
azap a/C & REFRIgERatION SERvICE, llC1520 42nd ST nWWInTER HAVEn, Fl 33881(863) 551-9500F: (863) 551-9503AzAPAIR.ComdAREk SmITHH.V.A.C./R.
ClEaR thINKINg(863) 248-1106F: (760)454-2483ClEARTHInkInGllC.ComSuSAn mYERSInTERnET mARkETInG
FINIStERRE tRavEl, l.l.C.(863) 614-1124FInISTERRETRAVEl.ComYAHAIRA moRAlESTRAVEl AGEnCIES
FOOt aNd aNKlE INStItUtE OF CENtRal FlORIda4712 ExPloRATIon AVElAkElAnd, Fl 33812(863) 644-1313FAICF.ComdR. kEllY PonCHERIPHYSICIAnS & SuRGEonS – dPm - PodIATRISTS
haWK SalES, llC(863) 859-7603F: (863) 859-1584HAWkSAlES.nETbERnIE P. PREuSSInSuRAnCE
hEalthy ChOCOlatE(219) 688-2228HEATHlYCHoColATESouRCE.ComkIm SHEPPARdHEAlTH & WEllnESS
hUt NO. 84000 uS HIGHWAY 98 n, #103lAkElAnd, Fl 33809(863) 858-4888HuTno8.ComdEE dEE CICCARElloRETAIl
INtERNal MEdICINE SpECIalIStS MEdICal gROUp, pa4730 ExPloRATIon AVElAkElAnd, Fl 33812(863) 619-5999F: (863) 619-5995dR. CARloS m. RomERoPHYSICIAnS InTERnAl mEdICInE
pIxFIRE(561) PIxFIREPIxFIRE.ComSkIP FARlEYGRAPHIC ARTS
pROFESSIONal WINdOW INStallatION, INC8351 STATE RoAd 54nEW PoRT RICHEY, Fl 34655(727) 243-5272F: (727) 869-0983AbCWInTAmPA.ComJEFF TYSzkoWIndoWS
RaMada hOtEl & CONFERENCE CENtER laKElaNd3260 uS HIGHWAY 98 nlAkElAnd, Fl 33805(863) 688-8080F: (863) 688-6820RAmAdAlAkElAnd.ComJoHn HAYWARdHoTElS/SuITES
RhOdES NON pRESSURE ROOF & ExtERIOR ClEaNINg(863) 660-2569F: (863) 248-7707RHodESRooFClEAnInG.ComRuSS lAkERooF ClEAnInG SPECIAlIST
Sgt MaJOR BBq(863) 944-0338SGTmAJoRbbQ.ComSHERmAn RobERTSCATERERS
N E W M E M B E R S
DEEDEE JONESkInG’S CouRT GoWnS
Each month, the Chamber enlists the help of 20 volunteers to mentor new and current members with involvement in Chamber events and programs.
This month, the Chamber staff would like to recognize DeeDee Jones, owner of King’s Court Gowns, for her outstanding attention to Chamber members and attendance at events! DeeDee is a wonderful asset to the Chamber and to the Lakeland community!
aUgUSt tOURISM INqUIRIESDuring the month of August, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds of
individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses and the
Lakeland community.
WAlk-In VISIToRS ............................................324
REloCATIon RESPonSE mAIlInGS ...................0
REloCATIon RESPonSE (WAlk In) ..................23
ACCommodATIonS ............................................3
WInTER ACCommodATIonS .............................0
VISIToR InFoRmATIon mAIlInGS ...................20
VISIToR CEnTER E-mAIl InQuIRIES ..................58
OUrmEmBErS
SIlvER lEaF KItChEN & Bath1818 HARdEn blVd, STE 110lAkElAnd, Fl 33803(863) 692-3400F: (863) 638-6888SIlVERlEAFkITCHEnS.ComPAm lEonARdkITCHEnS And bATHS
vEtERINaRy hEalthCaRE aSSOCIatES3025 dundEE RdWInTER HAVEn, Fl 33884(863) 324-3340F: (863) 325-8658VHAVETS.CommonYA GARnETTVETERInARIAnS
zINgO’S ShavEd ICElAkElAnd, Fl 33801(863) 934-8001zInGoSHAVEdICE.CombRETT monTzInGoICE CREAm & FRozEn TREATS - mobIlE
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 15
R I B B O N C U T T I N G S
aUdy’S StEElERS StUFFLakeland, FL 33801
2034 EdEnfiEld Pl, Unit 1 | (863) 665-5038www.aUdystEElErsstUff.com
phOtOgRaphER’S NIChELakeland, FL 33803
2300 E EdgEwood dr | (863) 944-4757www.PhotograPhErsnichE.com
Rapha vaSCUlaR SpECIalIStSLakeland, FL 33803
1619 hardEn Blvd | (863) 577-8346www.raPhavascUlar.com
FIvE-I gROUNdS MaINtENaNCE, INC.Lakeland, FL
(863) 815-0907 www.fivE-igroUndsmaintEnancE.com
pRINCIpal FINaNCIal gROUpLakeland, FL 33813
140 fitzgErald rd, stE 2 | (863) 701-7402www.andrEadisinsUrancE.com
lIghthOUSE MINIStRIES StORELakeland, FL 33801
711 n florida avE | (863) 687-4076www.lighthoUsEmin.org
Special thanks to Mayor Gow Fields, Commissioner Justin Troller and all the Board Members and Chamber Champions who truly make these
ceremonies special events.
hUt NO.8Lakeland, FL 33809
4000 Us highway 98 n, #103 | (863) 858-4888www.hUtno8.com
16 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
Watson Clinic LLPPleased to announce the addition of James M. Belarmino, MD, a board-certified urologist whose areas of expertise include adult and pediatric urology and the treatment of cancers of the bladder, prostate, and kidney. Dr. Belarmino is also trained in the use of da Vinci robotics.Also, pleased to welcome Joel M. Chang, MD, to our team of anesthesiologists. Dr. Chang is a Watson Clinic specialist who will provide his services to patients during their visit to Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic Center and Lakeland Regional Medical Center.
Citizens Bank & TrustPleased to announce the appointment of Howard Wiggs to the Citizens Bank and Trust Board of Directors.
Camellia Rose Tea RoomOwner Ellen Garrett recently attended the World Tea Expo. In her 6th year of attendance, Garrett was able to experience a tasting of unique teas from around the globe and discover new products for the gift shop. Also at the Expo, a preview of Tea Time Magazine’s newest cookbook featuring Camellia Rose.
yMCA of West Central FloridaPleased to announce that Mrs. Robin Butz and Mr. Kevin Cook have recently joined our Board of Directors. Robin Butz is a Buyer for Publix Supermarkets and Kevin Cook is the Director of Communications for the City of Lakeland.
Learning Resource Center of Polk County, Inc.Announces its 2011-2012 board of trustees: President Michael Folsom, First Vice President Timothy Kiley, Second Vice President Matthew Cantrall, Secretary Frank Lansford, Treasurer Yvonne Bunce, Immediate Past President Tom Watson, Alyce Badcock, Joyce Barclay, Sandy Hightower, Sherry Kelley, Cathy Kennedy, Ken Menefee, Sara Reyes-Peacock, Richard Pellegrini, Austen Snodgrass, and Curt Wheeler.
Radiology & Imaging SpecialistsProud to announce the recent addition of Dr. Venkat Tummala, Board Certified in Radiology. Dr. Tummala specializes in Vascular and Interventional Radiology. In addition, the administrative staff now includes Anne Hough, Executive Assistant to the CEO and Theresa Swam, Medical Staff Services.
1 9 4 6 | 6 5 y E a R SgentrY Morrison funeraL hoMes
1 9 6 8 | 4 3 y E a R SW.h. aLderMan pLuMbing Co.
higgenbothaM auCtioneers int’L Ltd., inC.
1 9 6 9 | 4 2 y E a R SMCdonaLd ConstruCtion Corporation
1 9 7 2 | 3 9 y E a R SWiLLiaMs & WiLLiaMs, inC.
1 9 7 4 | 3 7 y E a R SLarsonaLLen, LLp
(forMerLY nCt group C.p.a.’s LLp)
1 9 7 7 | 3 4 y E a R SnationaL MeMoriaLs
saddLe CreeK Corporation
1 9 7 8 | 3 3 y E a R SYerton Leasing & auto saLes, inC.
1 9 8 0 | 3 1 y E a R SsCMh arChiteCts
1 9 8 3 | 2 8 y E a R SCLarK & daughtreY MediCaL group, p.a.
1 9 8 4 | 2 7 y E a R SCiviLsurv design group, inC.,
forMerLY Keith & sChnars
1 9 8 5 | 2 6 y E a R SKnight industriaL equipMent, inC.
1 9 8 6 | 2 5 y E a R SCheathaM, goLeno & ferguson, p.a.
poLK MuseuM of art
1 9 8 8 | 2 3 y E a R SbasKets instead, inC.
1 9 8 9 | 2 2 y E a R SaLLianCe for independenCe
forMerLY pCahC
JaCK haLL Jr.’s ConstruCtion and aLuMinuM
1 9 9 0 | 2 1 y E a R SMorris CoMMerCiaL enterprises, inC.
1 9 9 1 | 2 0 y E a R SdiLLard’s
green ConstruCtion serviCes, inC.
the MosaiC CoMpanY
riteWaY food broKers, inC.
20+
yEaRS
M E M B E R R E N E W A L S
16 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
Heacock Payroll offers employers a
complete payroll processing service
which can combine your payroll
taxes, workers’ compensation and
employee benefits. Allowing you to
spend more time on your business
and less time on paperwork.
You spend more time on your business and less time on paperwork.
WWW.HEACOCK.COM
• WORKERS COMP
• EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
• PAYROLL PROCESSING & TAXES
100 E Main St. • Lakeland, FL • 863.683.22201105 US Hwy 27 North • Sebring, FL • 863.385.5171
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 17
aMeriCan business WoMen’s assoC LKLd doWntoWn
15
yEaRS
gregCo reCYCLing, inC.YeLLoWbooK
10
yEaRS
pM internationaL suppLies, LLC
presidiuM netWorK serviCes LLC
vr business saLes/Mergers & aCquisitions
yEaRS
5
Boys & Girls Clubs of Lakeland & Mulberry Recently awarded a $10,000 grant from Taco Bell and a $7,967 SummerWerx grant from the City of Lakeland Neighborhood Association Coalition. Both grants were utilized to provide summer work experience. A third grant for $26,087 from the Polk County Workforce Development Board will allow more than 60 teens to experience a program promoting Teen Pregnancy Prevention and Workforce Readiness.
Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real EstateDavid Hitchcock, ALC, Realtor®, and sales associate has been awarded the Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) designation from the REALTORS® Land Institute (RLI).
Play It Again Sports Owner Sandy Fortin attended the sporting goods franchisor’s annual Summer Meeting and Trade Show in Minneapolis. Fortin returned with new insights that will optimize the shopping experience for local families looking for quality, in-season used and new sporting goods and equipment.
thE LAKELAND chAMBEr prINts BUsINEss ANNOUNcEMENts EAch MONth As spAcE pErMIts. pLEAsE EMAIL ANNOUNcEMENts tO [email protected]
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 17
18 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
P u b l i c p o l i c y : w h at ’ s h a p p e n i n g
] ShoulD you hAVE Any QuESTIonS RElATED To ThE PuBlIC PolICy InITIATIVES oF ThE lAkElAnD AREA ChAMBER oF CoMMERCE, PlEASE FREE To CAll youR VICE PRESIDEnT oF PuBlIC AFFAIRS, yADIRA P. holMES AT (863) 688-8551 ExT. 241.
yADIRA HOLMESlAkElAnd AREA CHAmbER oF CommERCEvice preSiDent, public affairS
The lakeland area chamber of commerce wants to keep you informed of legislation that could impact your business. during the 2012 legislative Session, the public affairs division will send a weekly update to keep our membership up to date on all the latest information from tallahassee. to subscribe to the chamber’s public affairs emails, visit updatES.lakElandchamBEr.com.
While the work is not yet complete, the City and Chamber will continue to work together to make the sign ordinance more flexible, appropriate, and engaging for our business community all while maintaining the charm and aesthetic appeal of Lakeland’s cityscape. Proposed changes to the sign ordinance will be well thought and incremental and the Chamber will be present at future workshops as the work moves forward.
The Chamber is grateful to the City of Lakeland for engaging our membership on issues of critical importance to the success of the business community. And, additional gratitude is due to each member. With your continued support, the Chamber will continue to work to make Lakeland “Florida’s community of choice.”
conversation as well.On Friday, September
2, the Chamber presented its formal recommendations to the City of Lakeland. The presentation included recommendations related to a-frame, temporary, electronic, and gas station (known as pump toppers) signage and was well received by the City Commission and City staff. For a complete list of the Task Force recommendations, visit bit.ly/KeyIssues. (The Chamber uses bit.ly to shorten Web addresses. Typing this address into your browser’s address bar will take you to the Key Issues section of LakelandChamber.com.)
Moving forward, the City of Lakeland staff has now begun the task of evaluating how the Chamber’s proposed recommendations can be configured within the current ordinance.
The Sign Ordinance Task Force met regularly from May through August to research and develop meaningful recommendations. Included in this process was a voluntary Chamber survey that offered incredible insight into the needs of our business community. The survey results indicated widespread support for sign ordinance revisions and the Task Force thanks all Chamber members who participated in this valuable endeavor.
Parallel with the Chamber Task Force, the City of Lakeland also organized several meetings and workshops to examine how the City wanted to approach changes to the ordinance. These public meetings were informative and provided an opportunity for the general public to contribute to the
EARlIER ThIS yEAR, ThE lAkElAnD
AREA ChAMBER oF CoMMERCE
BEgAn DISCuSSIonS wITh ThE CITy
oF lAkElAnD To PRoPoSE REVISIon
RECoMMEnDATIonS To ThE CITy
oF lAkElAnD SIgn oRDInAnCE. In
oRDER To MAkE PRogRESS TowARDS
A MoRE FlExIBlE, BuSInESS-FRIEnDly
SIgn oRDInAnCE, wE ConVEnED ThE
ChAMBER SIgn oRDInAnCE TASk FoRCE
AnD ChARgED ThEM wITh ExAMInIng
ThE CuRREnT SIgn oRDInAnCE AnD
RECoMMEnDIng ChAngES ThAT
woulD Allow BuSInESS To PRoSPER
whIlE MAInTAInIng ThE CITy oF
lAkElAnD’S PlEASIng AESThETIC AnD
unIQuE ChARACTER. MEMBERS oF ThE
TASk FoRCE InCluDED:
JIMMy wAllERTASk FoRCE ChAIRMAn
wAllER ConSTRuCTIon, InC.
MATThEw CAnTRAll SIgnS AnD SPECIAlTIES
MARk gAuThIER kRISPy kREME DoughnuTS
John kIng CITy oF lAkElAnD BEAuTIFICATIon
BoARD REPRESEnTATIVE
BEn MunDy SCMh ARChITECTS
CoRy PETCoFF BARon REAlTy, InC.
Don PICkARD PICkARD & PICkARD REAlToRS
AlICE hunT ChAIRMAn oF ThE ChAMBER BoARD
hunT ConSTRuCTIon oF CEnTRAl FloRIDA, InC.
kAThlEEn MunSon PRESIDEnT | ChAMBER
yADIRA holMES VP-PuBlIC AFFAIRS | ChAMBER
ChRISTInE MuRPhy ADMIn. ASSISTAnT | ChAMBER
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 19
watson clinic
ObstetricsPregnancy will be one of the most wonderful times in your life, especially if you’re receiving care from doctors you trust every step of the way. That’s why expectant mothers choose Watson Clinic. We have the expertise of board-certified obstetricians at two convenient Lakeland locations, the latest technologies including 3D and 4D ultrasound imaging, round-the-clock deliveries at Lakeland Regional Medical Center, and a wide range of services from infertility counseling to specialized high-risk pregnancy care. Watson Clinic’s OB team will deliver for you, and for your little miracle, too.
www.WatsonClinic.com | 863-680-7243
Everywhere you look, we’ve touched lives.
Visit our Sales Center at 1301 Grasslands Blvd. Suite 100 (866) 668-1227 | Pat Jones (863) 581-4699 or Debbie Haskell (863) 602-8830.www.Oakbridge.com
Laurel GlenStarting in the $300’s
Lakeside Villas Three Floor Plans To Choose From
Heritage LakesHomesites starting in the low $200’s
Executive HomesitesGated 24-Hr. Manned Security
Mission LakesStarting at $199,900
64 Upscale Townhomes Four Floor Plans To Choose From
The SanctuaryStarting at $659,900
Luxurious Estate Villa HomesFairway or Waterfront Views
20 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S20 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
Who makes the decisions about your financing?Does your bank shift your loan application to someone who doesn’t know you, or is unfamiliar with the local business climate?
We were founded to serve professionals and owner-managed businesses. Our commercial banking officers understand the local marketplace and can respond to your individual needs in a way you won’t find anywhere else.
Left to rightNancy LaFountain,
Jennifer Vaughn, Chrissy Schaff, Randy Hollen,
Larry Pitts,Scott Gardner
Paul J. Noris – President and CEO
“We are fortunate to have these six professionals with more than 140 years of combined banking experi-ence, over half of which have been right here in Polk County.”
Member FDIC www.bankofcentralflorida.com
Downtown Lakeland 101 S. Florida Avenue • 863-682-7100South Lakeland 5015 S. Florida Avenue • 863-701-2685Bartow 515 N. Broadway Avenue • 863-534-3585
E x p e r i e n c e E m e r g e : T r a i n i n g A c r o s s G e n e r at i o n s
CINDy GREENFuRR & WEGmAn ARCHITECTS PAeMerge chair
the workplace.The programs
and events that are developed by the EMERGE Steering Committee are specifically designed to encourage networking among young professionals, offer opportunities for soft skills development and invite young professionals into community service. One program that Past Chair Kathy Wallen (Baylis & Company PA CPAs) is particularly proud of is EMERGE Serves. With help from many of Lakeland’s business and non-profit leaders, this ten hour class takes 20 young professionals through the fundamentals of effective board service. EMERGE
Serves graduates are an outstanding pool of informed and energetic future leaders, and are carefully matched with open service opportunities in the community. Class Two will graduate this month.
In addition to EMERGE Serves, area young professionals are afforded an opportunity to attend monthly professional development workshops which have included book studies, guest speakers and facility tours. EMERGE’s P2P (Peer To Peer) Program pairs young professionals that are new to the Lakeland community with EMERGE veterans. Through the year-long program, these P2P
teams are immersed in the Lakeland volunteer community, the education community and the business community, providing an incredible and lasting connection to the area.
As EMERGE Lakeland continues to grow, our programs become more relevant to the training and retention plans of companies in the Lakeland area. For more information on how to involve your young professionals in EMERGE Lakeland events and programs, please visit EMERGELakeland.com, find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @EMERGELakeland.
X and Generation Y prefer to learn hard skills and soft skills on the job. Hard skills are technical and are often specific to industry, while soft skills directly affect interpersonal relationships and self-management ability – sometimes called “people skills”. By contrast, Traditional and Baby Boom generation members prefer to learn hard skills in a classroom setting.
These differences can greatly impact a company’s training plan and training budget. EMERGE Lakeland has a variety of programs designed to meet the needs of young professionals (specifically Generation X and Generation Y) in
Today’s workforce can be classified into four basic Generations: Traditional (born before 1945), Baby Boom (born 1943-1965), Generation X (born 1968-1979) and Generation Y (born 1978-1999). The differences in the work styles, learning needs and overall expectations of employees of different generations are distinct and well-documented.
Generations have different preferred methods of learning. On a broad level, Generation
EMERgE laKElaNd MISSION:To create a venue for our members to build
relationships, develop professionally, become politically aware, philanthropically active, and contribute to the economic development and
quality of life in lakeland. ] C O N N E C TEMERGELakeland.com
] T I C K E T S F O R C O R P O R A T E T A B L E S O F T E N ( $ 3 5 0 ) O R I N D I V I D U A L T I C K E T S O F ( $ 3 5 ) C A N B E P U R C H A S E D A T W W W. W E 3 E X P O . C O M . IF youR BuSInESS oR oRgAnIzATIon woulD lIkE To SERVE AS A SPonSoR oF ThIS EVEnT, PlEASE ConTACT AShlEy BARnETT AT (863) 698-9512 oR [email protected].
CrownShredding Ad 2.5x10.5.pdf 2/6/09 2:31:01
ASHLEy BARNETTPolk CounTY SCHoolSeDucation & talent DevelopMent KSi MeMber
August 22, 2011Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce Article
you want ‘em. We’ve got ‘em. Let’s keep ‘em.
serve: Business, IT and Financial Services, Agri-Tech and Agri-Business, Life Science and Medical Services, Research and Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, and Public Safety and Administration. Career academies also provide a choice in education: students are able to transfer to an academy which appeals to their career interests, all with the opportunity for earning college credit and industry certifications. Additional information can be found on the Polk Academies website at www.WE3expo.com .
Following the Career Academy Expo, please join us for a special dinner at 6:30 p.m. in Sikes Hall featuring guest speaker, Kaplan Mobray, who is a best-selling author, entertainer, motivational speaker, and career life coach. In addition, the five year “Career Academy Strategic Plan,” developed with community, business, higher education, Florida Ford Next Generation, and Polk County School Board input will be presented.
to each stakeholder. As part of the
continued effort to develop and cultivate new partnerships between local businesses and education, citizens are invited to attend the 3rd WE3 Career Academy Expo and Dinner Event. Please mark your calendar for November 1, 2011, 5:00-7:30 p.m., at the Lakeland Center to participate in this unique Expo with the opportunity to learn more about the existing 35 career academies which are housed in our nearby high schools. As the need for a highly skilled workforce increases, it is important for employers to be aware of the pool of talent that is available from local educational institutions. Additionally, local employers are an important resource for local educators. Employer input is critical to the development of relevant program curricula, which in turn produces qualified interns and even future employees.
The following are some industries that career academies
Education is a crucial issue that has a substantial impact on the economic sustainability of Polk County. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce and its partners are keenly aware of the need for an educated workforce and professional development for employees. The Chamber Board of Directors recognize the importance and value of strong education partnerships which can contribute to the community by supporting existing entities and their efforts to educate, train, or retrain the local workforce.
The Lakeland Chamber has determined that education is one of its Key Strategic Initiatives, with goals of increasing value to chamber members, bringing private industry expertise and learning opportunities to primary, secondary, and post-secondary institutions, and providing a system to facilitate, track, and measure outcomes of these partnerships in ways that are beneficial
3Rd WE3 CaREER aCadEMy
sAvE
thE
DAtE
The lakeland center
] C O N N E C TWE3Expo.com
a TASTE of local business one cup at a time
B y J I M l E v I N S O NinternationaL house of panCaKes
The
Common
Grounds member feature
gives your business the opportunity
to showcase “a day in the life” of your
employees and customers. Each month,
one of the door prizes at the business
After Hours event will be a Common
Grounds lakeland Chamber coffee mug
& the opportunity to submit a 350
word article about your local
business.
22 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S
Common
as the operator of the ihop restaurant on South florida avenue in lakeland, i work with my staff to deliver on ihop’s promise of hospitality. our menu delivers lots of variety and our recent “Simple & fit” section, which offers most meals under 600 calories, is popular with people who have all sorts of dietary needs. we frequently change our “limited time offers” and in october we will have our “trick or treat all you can Eat” pancake special and, of course, our favorite pumpkin pancakes will be back!
ihop has strong core values and the company prides itself on delivering a positive impact on the communities it serves. for our team in lakeland, we’ve found our involvement in different charities both fun and rewarding and we are all about helping a good cause.
South lakeland ihop now has free wifi and this helps our students that might want to come by for a late night snack. of course everyone knows that we offer our entire menu 24 hours a day – breakfast, lunch or dinner.
i can tell you that my team and i feel privileged to be a contributing part of the lakeland community.
F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 23
GO TIGERS!
BUSINESSH URSAFTER
$10 Chamber Member ~ $30 Non Chamber MemberYour R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit Lakeland.Chamber.com to register.
October 205:30-7:30 p.m.
5020 US Highway 98 S
List Price: $205OFD Reg. Price: $119
Locally Owned & Operated
IMPRESS YOUR CLIENTS!SALE: $101! SPECIAL OFFER! While Supplies Last
IMPROVE YOUR SEATING&
(863) 682-34502440 Hwy. 98 North 1 Mile S. of I-4 Across from Lakeland Chrysler
www.officefurnituredepot.com
CLASSIC TRADITIONAL STYLECAPTAIN’S CHAIRWITH CASTERS• Hand applied individual
brass nail head trim• Rich Mahogany wood finish• Sturdy hardwood frameFaux leather in Oxblood/Burgundy ONLY
(FULLY ASSEMBLED)
Oct11 LkldChamberAd:FloorMatAdNov-LKLD 8/22/11 10:25 AM Page 1
Lake
land
Are
a C
ham
ber o
f Com
mer
ceP.
O. B
ox 3
607
• Lak
elan
d, F
L 33
802
- 360
7
RE
TUR
N S
ER
VIC
E R
EQ
UE
STE
D
