October 2008

INSIDEEMERGE Hosts Book Review .. . . 4Small Business Award . . . . . . . . . . 6Catalyst Campaign . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . 10Leadership Lakeland XXVI . . .11Members on the Move . . . . . .17Ribbon Cuttings . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

You won’t want to miss this premier event! Sponsorships and player spots are still available! Call 863/688-8551 Ext. 242 for more details or

e-mail amclacklan@lakelandchamber.com

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 EVol. XVIII, No. 10

Visit our Web site atwww.lakelandchamber.com

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Full Service Hair Salon • Manicures & Pedicures • Facials • Massages MM #20937 • Body & Skin Care Treatments • Facial & Full Body Waxing • Special Occasion Packages

FOOD / FUN / DRINKS / DOOR PRIZES

OCTOBER 30, 2008 • 4:00 - 7:00 PMTour our newly expanded 4,800 sq. ft. facility.

On-site demonstrations by Paul Mitchell® and Dermalogica® representatives.Visit us online to receive a FREE $20 Gift Card for first-time client visits.

OpenHouse Celebration

5668 South Florida Avenue • 863.644.8663 • www.AllureBeautySalon.com

As the Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) establish Career Academies throughout the county, the strong partnership forged with Polk Community College has become increasingly apparent. The collaborative efforts will certainly strengthen the workforce in our community.

The PCC Corporate College has worked with numerous businesses throughout Polk County and has become the single source of training for many. As companies explore relocating to the market or expanding their current businesses, the Corporate College works with them at the earliest developmental stages to meet their workforce needs. The relationship between the Polk County School Board and the PCC Corporate College will prove to be a catalyst that will attract new businesses to the area, entice younger workers to stay in the community, and keep the community’s workforce skills and knowledge current. Channeling highly skilled employees to Polk County’s industries is a major goal of this partnership. A great example of this partnership can be seen with the new Central Florida Aviation and Aerospace Academy offered through Kathleen High School at the Florida Air Museum at Sun ‘n Fun. This initiative is just one of many that the PCC Corporate College and PCPS are presently working on that is designed to result in a larger aviation industry sector surrounding the Linder Airport.

An initiative underway with Lakeland Electric represents another example of the partnership between PCC Corporate College and the PCPS. Lakeland Electric has partnered with both educational entities to prepare to meet the skilled labor demands predicted, as large numbers of baby boomers leave the workforce over the next five to ten years. The Corporate College’s role is to provide technical skills upgrades for the incumbent workforce, while the PCPS are building a Power Career Academy at Tenoroc High School to meet the future employment needs of the company by training and channeling skilled workers from within the community.

The collaborative effort between PCC and the PCPS extends well beyond these two initiatives. PCPS is planning career academies in Advanced Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management that will coincide perfectly with the Corporate College’s manufacturing training Supply Chain Institute with Winter Haven High School. In addition, PCC has partnered with the PCPS to develop the Bartow Medical Academy at Bartow High School and the Academy of Legal Studies at George Jenkins High School.

The partnerships between PCC and PCPS benefit our community by creating a pipeline of skilled workers to maintain and expand the local workforce, enabling future economic growth and stability for both individuals and businesses.

Partnership between PCPS Career academies and PCC’s Corporate College

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October 1 Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m.

October 7 Chairman’s Circle Luncheon, Noon. Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive.

October 8 Government Affairs, 8:00 a.m.

BusinessVoice, 9:00 a.m.

Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m.

October 9 Leadership Lakeland XXVI, City Government Day.

Business & Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. Lakeland Habitat for Humanity, 1317 George Jenkins Boulevard.

October 15 Executive Committee Meeting, 4:00 p.m.

Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m.

October 16 Politics in the Park - Free Admission, Lake Mirror Promenade, 5:30 p.m.

October 21 EMERGE Lakeland Steering, Committee Meeting, 3:45 p.m.

October 22 Board of Directors Meeting, Noon. Lakeland Yacht and Country Club, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive.

Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m.

October 23 Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m. Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic Center, 1315 North Florida Avenue.

October 28 Investment Committee Meeting, 4:00 p.m.

October 29 Entrepreneurial Academy, 5:45 p.m.

VoLumE INFormatIoN:

October 2008Vol. XVIII, No. 10

Timothy F. CampbellChairman of the Board

Kathleen L. MunsonPublisher & President

Aaron BatesManaging Editor

Rachel AycockEditor

863/669.8775

upcoming meetings & Events All meetings are held at the Chamber unless otherwise noted.

683-1111 800 South Florida Ave.Lakeland, FL

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www.yoursleepcenter.com

We guarantee a good night’s sleep at the best possible price! By listening to you, caring about your needs, and helping you select the best possible sleep system within your budget, we’ll make sure you love your bed too!

South Lakeland 701-7244 5688 South Florida Ave.Behind Ale House and Louie Mac’s

Central Lakeland 603-04012125 South Florida Ave.Formerly Cleghorns, beside Starbucks

North Lakeland 815-46884220 U.S. 98 NorthNext to Circuit City

Winter Haven 299-0511 700 1st St. SW Citi Centre opposite Macy’s

SLEEP CENTER (3) 5.25X8.indd 1 4/9/08 11:57:54 AM

EMERGE members participated in a book review by Dr. Larry Ross of Florida Southern College on August 12. Dr. Ross reviewed “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable,” by Patrick Lencioni. EMERGE members listened and asked questions while eating lunch at the President’s Dining Hall in the Charles T. Thrift Building on the campus of Florida Southern College. EMERGE Lakeland thanks Dr. Ross and Florida Southern College for a great event. Following the event EMERGE members delivered leftover food to the Talbot House in Lakeland.

EMERGE members also participated in a presentation on branding for downtown Lakeland. The Lakeland Downtown Development Authority’s branding consultants conducted their second meeting to present and gain community input regarding the branding process of downtown Lakeland. Future branding meetings will be scheduled.

Visit www.emergelakeland.com to learn more about upcoming events, volunteer opportunities and development and social outings. You can also click on the EMERGE logo at www.lakelandchamber.com.

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For more information or to apply for admission visit

www.seuniversity.edu or call 863.667.5018

1000 Longfellow Blvd. Lakeland, Florida 33801-6034 863.667.5018 toll free 800.500.8760

Undergraduate programs:Degree programs are offered in the evenings or online.

� B.S. in Criminal Justice (online only)� B.S. in Human Services� B.S. in Management

Graduate programs:� M.B.A.� M.Ed. in Educational Leadership� M.Ed. in Elementary Education (with NBPTS preparation)� M.Ed. in Teaching & Learning (online only)� M.S. in Professional Counseling� M.S. in School Counseling� M.A. in Ministerial Leadership� Executive M.A. in Ministerial Leadership

Degree programs for working adultsPursuing a dream takes real courage. That’s why Southeastern

University has designed programs with your needs in mind. Our convenient, accelerated, welcoming programs of study are personally enriching, professionally relevant, and grounded in the Christian worldview.

Evening & Weekend Programs

� B.S. in Marketing� B.S. in Practical Theology

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September Small business of the month award Winner

Classic Controls, Inc. is an instrumentation, valve, and system representative, serving industrial customers in the State of Florida in the

power generation, chemical, phosphate, food, pulp & paper, water, and wastewater process markets.

In 1991, Classic Controls, Inc. was founded by Ray Anderson, joined by Shawn Warren and two other employees. A year later Jim LeVine joined the team. Now in their 18th year of business, Classic Controls, Inc. has grown into one of the most respected representative firms in the State of Florida. Shawn and Jim recently completed their buyout from Ray, but Ray is still an integral part of the team. Together, Shawn, Jim, Ray and their 18 employees bring their talents and dedication together to serve their customers.

Classic Controls, Inc. started as a pure sales office, but it quickly grew to add full service capabilities including instrument calibration & repair, system integration, and control valve repair.

The owners and staff represent and service the highest quality products that measure such things as flow, pressure, level, temperature, pH, conductivity, etc. and monitor and control it with systems small to large, down to the final control elements of control valves. When it comes to controls, they have it covered for your plant.

What’s the company’s key to success? Its team! “We have been truly blessed in the quality of each employee that has joined our team and shares our vision of customer satisfaction” says co-owner Shawn Warren. That’s certainly not an easy undertaking- in addition to learning about each product and service, team members must support each division equally.

The owners of Classic Controls, Inc. live by the phrase, “Do the right thing”. These simple words offer a solution to complicated challenges and have been the foundation of trust for their customers and principals. Classic Controls, Inc. is also proud to “do the right thing” by giving back to local communities, schools, youth sports and charities. They have been supporters of many charities and encourage employees to do the same.

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Classic Controls, Inc. as the September Small Business of the Month award winner.

Classic Controls, Inc.5095 South Lakeland Drive • P.O. Box 6187

Lakeland, FL 33807-6187863/644-3642 • www.classiccontrols.com

Shawn Warren and ray anderson accept the September Small business of the month award from Ginny houghton (allen & Company of Florida, Inc.).

Hosted by:

1317 George Jenkins Boulevard

Thursday, October 97:30 - 9:00 a.m.

“Lakeland EconomicDevelopment Update”

Speaker:Bill Mutz, Chairman of the Board

Lakeland Economic Development Council

Please R.S.V.P. by 5:00 p.m. the day prior tothe event to 863/688-8551 Ext 232 or

E-mail: mstevenson@lakelandchamber.com

&BUSINESS BREAKFASTStart Your

BusinessDay

WithUs!

$5 Chamber Member$15 Non-Member

PresentingSponsor:

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8

time to Purchase a New Car!Chamber members and potential new members enjoyed the outstanding hospitality of Regal

Automotive Group and the Campisi family at our August Business After Hours. Gathering in the Honda Showroom, nearly 200 guests braved the remnants of Hurricane Fay to network and meet our newest members. The staff at Regal offered fabulous service, from shuttling people to the entrance to providing the DJ entertainment. There’s no doubt they entertained a few new car shoppers as well. Even the food was a big hit - offering many guests the opportunity to try something new - fried gator tail! Our thanks go out to Sal Campisi, Renee Campisi and the entire staff at Regal for a fabulous event.

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Semi-precious stonesFlooring (Wood, Tiles & Porcelain)Sinks, Faucets & VanitiesSolid Wood Cabinets

2109 W. Memorial Blvd.Lakeland, FL 33815P (863) 688-2525F (863) 688-2828

located on the NW corner of Wabash Ave & Memorial Blvd, 1/2 mile east of I-4

Sal Campisi, Jr. accepts the Plaque of Appreciation

Despite the rain, members network “shoulder to shoulder”.

Members line up to brave tasting the fried gator tail!

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Catalyst Campaign Celebrates Victory!

On September 16, Catalyst Campaign Chair Nancy Cattarius (WONN/WPCV/WLKF/WWRZ Radio) claimed victory on behalf of 20 corporate teams and the Chamber of Commerce! As a part of their grand opening celebration, Leading Edge Aviation hosted a gala for board members, volunteers and their dedicated companies. Final results will be available in the November Forum for Business Monthly. Take a look back at our adventures from this summer…

Bank of Central Florida team members Jennifer Vaughn and Randy Hollen celebrate their progress with Bank President Paul Noris at the Campaign Kickoff.

Showing “pizza prowess” at the Kickoff: Vice Chair Kathryn Koch-O’Malley and the Colonial Bank team Barbara Cadiz and Team Captain Nancy Kahrs.

Allen & Company of Florida Team Captain Nick Stevens with Furr & Wegman Architects, PA team members Cindy Green & Crystal Lester work on their Kickoff Pizza.

Wearing their chocolate-making gear, Campaign Chair Nancy Cattarius (WONN/WPCV/WLKF/WWRZ Radio) and Team Captain Kathy Wallen (The NCT Group CPA’s, LLP) show their Campaign pride!

Vice Chair Walker Wilkerson (The NCT Group CPA’s, LLP) carefully constructs his chocolate peanut butter cups at the Reward Reception.

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The Chamber is Proud to Welcome 18 New Members for August 2008Through their membership in the Chamber, businesses invest in themselves and their community.

We urge you to “Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents!” by doing business with these new Chamber members.For the most up-to-date list of members, visit our on-line Preferred Business Directory at www.lakelandchamber.com!

AFLAC/Nadine PerezLakeland, FL 33809-5943(561) 865-1127Nadine PerezInsurance

Art In Motion Academy of Dance1037 S Florida Ave Ste 105Lakeland, FL 33803-1199(863) 248-5888www.aimdance.netJennifer DavisDance Studio

Backyard Adventures IIPC, LLC3111 US Highway 98 S Ste 130Lakeland, FL 33803-8318(863) 665-9876Fax: (863) 665-4040www.backyardadventuresfl.comJeremy & Trish YostEntertainment Fun Center

Country Inn and Suites4500 Lakeland Park DriveLakeland, FL 33809www.countryinns.com/lakelandflSheila PatelHotels/Suites

Create an Image Salon & Spa Inc.3500 S Florida Ave Ste 6Lakeland, FL 33803-4869(863) 701-2887Denise LaneHair Salons

Dutch Ireland Insurance, LLC2031 E Edgewood Dr Ste 1Lakeland 33803PO Box 699Eaton Park, FL 33840-0699(863) 816-5828www.di-ins.comDutch IrelandInsurance

Fairfield Inn & Suites4307 Sterling Commerce DrPlant City, FL 33566(904) 249-9071 Ext 702Fax: (904) 241-7743www.marriott.com/tpapcLisa DickinsonHotels/Suites

Florida Gate Masters5147 S Lakeland Dr Ste 3Lakeland, FL 33813-2610(863) 816-5838Fax: (863) 816-5840Byers LevyGate Access/Control

Franwell, Inc.2525 Drane Field Rd Ste 9Lakeland, FL 33811-1344(863) 583-0228(800) 639-1615Fax: (863) 577-0955www.franwell.comGrady Morrell

Integrity Reporting3510 S Florida Ave Ste 101Lakeland, FL 33803-4874(863) 647-2800Fax: (863) 647-0028www.integrityreporting.netSuesanna M. RiceCourt Reporters

Make-A-Wish Foundation of Central and Northern Florida1719 W Kennedy BlvdTampa, FL 33606-1643(813) 288-2600Fax: (813) 288-2605www.wishcentral.orgKristin SeeAssociations

Papa John’s Pizza1849 E Memorial BlvdLakeland, FL 33801-2226(863) 680-4000Fax: (863) 688-4043www.papajohnsflorida.comGeorge CadoretteRestaurants

Papa John’s Pizza3505 Cleveland Heights BlvdLakeland, FL 33803-4907(863) 619-7272Fax: (863) 619-3750www.papajohnsflorida.comJohnie LewisRestaurants

Papa John’s Pizza6747 US Highway 98 NLakeland, FL 33809-6226(863) 858-9090Fax: (863) 858-4829www.papajohnsflorida.comEd DimalantaRestaurants

Papa John’s Pizza2105 E County Road 540 ALakeland, FL 33813-3794(863) 619-8700Fax: (863) 647-2325www.papajohnsflorida.comJustin RutherfordRestaurants

Rounders Transportation & Logistics, Inc.2920 Drane Field RdLakeland, FL 33811-1329(863) 607-9810(888) 687-5623Fax: (863) 687-8035www.rounderstransport.comJeff Cox, Jr.Construction

Total Advantage Beverage Group, LLC464 W Pipkin Rd Ste 1Lakeland, FL 33813-2699(863) 644-9100Fax: (863) 644-9144www.xpress-caffe.comGregory G. SmithBeverages

Wiley & Malless, LLC306 E Main St Ste 202Lakeland, FL 33801-5023(863) 688-6880Fax: (863) 688-6887www.wiley-malless.comJames MallessReal Estate

20+ Years Renewals

1946 - 62 YearsGentry Morrison Funeral Home Southside1969 - 39 YearsMcDonald Construction Corporation1970 - 38 YearsGore’s, Inc.1971 - 37 YearsMeisner Paint & Body, Inc.1972 - 36 YearsWilliams & Williams, Inc. 1973 - 35 YearsFurr & Wegman Architects, P.A.1974 - 34 YearsThe NCT Group C.P.A.’s, LLP1975 - 33 YearsFlorida Baptist Childrens’ Homes, Inc.Poor Richard’s Print ShopHerndon & Associates, Insurance, LLC

1977 - 31 YearsSaddle Creek CorporationNational Memorials1978 - 30 YearsYerton Leasing & Auto Sales, Inc.1980 - 28 YearsSCMH Architects, Inc.1982 - 26 YearsRobert L. Valentine, P.A.1985 - 23 YearsKnight Industrial Equipment, Inc.1986 - 22 YearsPolk Museum of ArtCheatham & Goleno Financial Services, P.A.1987 - 21 YearsSanta Fe Catholic High School1988 - 20 YearsBaskets Instead, Inc.Town & Country Termite & Pest Control, Inc.

15 Years Renewals

Jim Williams Fence CompanyMaxPak, LLCWard’s Heating & Air Conditioning

10 Years Renewals

Law Offices of Colon & Lopez, P.A.Baylis & Company, PA, CPA’sTalbot House Ministries, Inc.Mitchell’s CoffeehouseCentral Sheet Metal & Steel, Inc.

5 Years Renewals

Health Insurance of Florida, Inc.Masseys Painting, Inc.Ken Mullins Insurance

The Chamber would like to recognize and thank the following businesses for their long-standing support and loyalty:

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Leadership Lakeland Class XXVI Selected

The Leadership Lakeland Class XXVI has been selected. Stacy Campbell-Domineck, Polk Works, will serve as chair of this year’s class and Art Erickson, Florida Lifestyle Communities will serve as Chair-Elect.

Christopher Asbill, Lanier upshaw, Inc.Kandis Baker-Buford, Polk County board of County CommissionersSarah Case, JSk Consulting, Inc.Kay Cochran, marriott Vacation Club InternationalWilliam Crowe, QMI/ITWJerome Ferson, the Ledger Publishing CompanyDanita Frier, Central Florida Speech & hearing CenterDr. Tarek Garas, Watson Clinic LLPTimothy Harris, the School board of Polk CountyErnie Ivey, Polk Community CollegeFrederick John Koehler, II, Smart CreativeKelly Lane, boys & Girls Clubs of Lakeland & mulberryMichael LaPan, the Lakeland CenterGregory Madden, maddenDan McBride, Victory ChurchShawn McDonough, EXIt realty of LakelandMichael Micallef, Community Southern bankLaura Newlin, Clark, Campbell & mawhinney, P.a.Cory Petcoff, baron realty, Inc.James David Robinson, DSm technology ConsultantsLinda Skillern, Crowe horwath LLPJacquelyn Small, Polk WorksMichael Smith, Publix Super Markets, Inc.Monti Sommer, amI LakelandAnne Sullivan, the NCt Group CPa’s, LLPTracey Tedder, Florida Southern CollegeNaomi Tillett, keith and Schnars, P.a.Jennifer Vaughn, bank of Central Florida

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august New member

reception

The August New Member Reception was hosted by Stinson’s Home Design Center, located at 2315 Commerce Point Dr. Ste. 130. With nearly 20 new member representatives in attendance, they were introduced to what programs and events the Chamber has to help them build their business. Good food and lots of networking made the evening a great success. Everyone enjoyed looking at the new flooring available to homeowners. Thanks to the Stinson’s and their staff for their hospitality.

Riverside Bank is the Presenting Sponsor for the New Member Reception series.

New members listen as opportunities and programs are presented to them.

Members network with one another.

October 16 5:30—8 p.m.

HOSTED BY

Gubernatorial SponsorsBadcock Home Furniture & more Bank of Central Florida DMA Engineering, Inc.

GLT Total Offi ce Griffi n Pools, Inc. The NCT Group CPA’s, LLPParrish and Parrish CPA's, PA Rodda Construction, Inc. Sessums & Sessums, PA

Solar Source Southside Cleaners - LaunderersWard’s Heating & Air Conditioning Watson Clinic LLP

Congressional SponsorsAiken Offi ce Solutions CF Industries, Inc.

Clark, Campbell and Mawhinney, PA The Fearn Partnership, Inc.Florida Strategic Group, LLC Lanier Upshaw, Inc.

Party People Celebration Co. Ross Vecchio, PA Signs & Specialties, Inc.Valenti Campbell Trohn Tamayo & Aranda Verizon

Senatorial SponsorsBernie Little Distributors Lakeland Electric

Straw Poll SponsorFolsom Construction, Inc.

Presidential SponsorsCoca-Cola Enterprises Colonial Bank The Ledger

Publix Super Markets, Inc. WONN/WPCV/WLKF/WWRZ Radio

Meet Local, State and Federal candidatesDiscuss Issues Participate in a Straw Poll

Enjoy live entertainment, food and beverages

GENERAL ADMISSION IS FREE

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2009 Board of Directors - Election Results

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the following business leaders were elected by the Chamber’s 2,000+ member businesses to serve on the Chamber Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2009.

The tremendous leadership and expertise of these individuals will be of great benefit to the organization in carrying out its mission: The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce is the leading organization dedicated to creating a climate where business can prosper.

A special “thank you” to the following Committee members: Chair Anu Saxena, Immediate Past Chair Paul Noris, Past Chair Maureen Shaw, board members Nancy Cattarius, Melinda Harrison, and Walker Wilkerson.

HUGH AUTRY Lakeland Regional Medical CenterTODD BAYLIS Cipher Integrations, Inc. SYLVIA BLACKMON-ROBERTS Blackmon Roberts Group, Inc.GARY CASSARD Bright House NetworksDENIS COLE FirmenichSCOTT GARDNER SunTrust BankTERRI GOLENO Cheatham & Goleno Financial Services, P.A.TIM JACKSON NuJak CompaniesJOE JOSEPH Royal Granite & Marble LLCSTEVE MOORE Florida Property & DevelopmentBOB MORROW GEICOTIM RICE Ward’s Heating & Air Conditioning

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The August 14 Business & Breakfast was hosted by Bridgewater LLC in their beautiful multi-purpose room at the Lake Club. Members and guests were eager to hear Jeff Sprague, Lakeland Electric, speak on “Save Money with Energy Conservation”. Jeff presented a “heads-up” on new programs planned by Lakeland Electric to save consumers money. Thanks to Tracy Brown and the staff of Bridgewater for hosting the event.

Presenting Sponsor for the 2008 Business & Breakfast series is Regions Bank.

Everyone Wants to Save money!

Tracy Brown, Marketing Coordinator for Bridgewater LLC, welcomes Chamber members.

Jeff Sprague, Lakeland Electric, gives his presentation to Chamber members.

Brenda Powers from Regions Bank speaks to Chamber members.

Chamber members network after the presentation.

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Save The Date!

Tuesday, February 3, 2009 5:30 pm

The Lakeland Center

Your invitation will be mailed in December!

2008 Chamber annual meeting

august tourism Inquiries

During the month of August, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds of individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses and the Lakeland community. Walk-in Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313 Relocation Response Mailings . . . . . 12 Relocation Response (Walk-In) . . . . 22 Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 Winter Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . 2 Visitor Information Mailings . . . . . . 41 Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries . . . . 258

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Harbsmeier DeZayas, LLP863.619.7330

Specializing in Work-Related Issues For Employers

Let us come talk to you about your work-related issues and how we can provide other legal services for your employees.

eleven attorneys practicing state-wide

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Workers’ Compensation Defense

EXECUTIVE OFFICE

Kathleen Munson, president Ext. 234 - kmunson@lakelandchamber.com

Barbara Bennett, executive assistantExt. 233 - bbennett@lakelandchamber.com

Sally Chapman, vice president, finance &operationsExt. 240 - schapman@lakelandchamber.com

COMMUNICATIONS

Aaron Bates, vice presidentExt. 237 - abates@lakelandchamber.com

Angela McLacklan, administrative assistantExt. 242 - amclacklan@lakelandchamber.com

CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

Jackie Johnson, senior vice presidentExt. 223 - jackiej@lakelandchamber.com

Angela McLacklan, administrative assistantExt. 242 - amclacklan@lakelandchamber.com

Patty Smith, visitor information specialistExt. 221 - psmith@lakelandchamber.com

MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT

Terry Ottinger, vice presidentExt. 231 - tottinger@lakelandchamber.com

Mary Stevenson, administrative assistantExt. 232 - mstevenson@lakelandchamber.com

Nikki Oakley, membership account executiveExt. 239 - noakley@lakelandchamber.com

Amy Wiggins, membership account executive Ext. 229 - awiggins@lakelandchamber.com

Matthew Wengerd, membership account executiveExt. 236 - mwengerd@lakelandchamber.com

MEMBER RELATIONS

Carolyn Jackson, senior vice presidentExt. 230 - cjackson@lakelandchamber.com

Christine Murphy, administrative assistantExt. 228 - cmurphy@lakelandchamber.com PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Ashley Link, vice presidentExt. 241 - alink@lakelandchamber.com

Christine Murphy, administrative assistantExt. 228 - cmurphy@lakelandchamber.com

Visit the Lakeland Chamber Web site at:www.lakelandchamber.com

Steve Scruggs, executive directorsscruggs@lakelandedc.com

Claudia Tritton, business development directorctritton@lakelandedc.com

Laura Taylor, assistant directorltaylor@lakelandedc.com

Visit the LEDC Web site at:www.lakelandedc.com

LakELaND ECoNomICDEVELoPmENt CouNCIL:

863/687-3788

LakELaND arEaChambEr oF CommErCE:

863/688-8551

17

october members on the move

Polk TheatreThe historic Polk Theatre announces the 2008/2009 Board of Trustees.Officers: President, Meri Mass; President Elect, Ira Anderson; Treasurer, Jim Ham III; Secretary, Philip D. Wegman, AIA; Immediate Past President, Dale Dreyer.

Board of Trustees: Tom Anderson, Nathaly Arredondo, Calvin Arter, Jr., Cathalain Carter, Brian Dockery, Sergui Gherman, Ann Hilliard, Ashley Link, Zenapha Milton, Cory Petcoff, Jennifer Rumph, Donovan Tinsley, Julie Townsend, Cassandra Trohn, Joyce Tubb and Ryan Tucholski.

December 2008 Celebrates Polk Theater’s 80th Anniversary.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma SocietyChanna Petrocelli, Business Development Manager for M.E. Wilson Co., Inc. has signed on as corporate chair of the 2008 Polk Light The Night® Walk, for the Central Florida Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Light the Night is an annual fundraising event held each fall to raise money for cancer research and patient services. Participants at the walk carry illuminated balloons – white for survivors, red for supporters – to honor and commemorate lives touched by blood cancer. In Central Florida, the Polk County Walk will take place on Saturday, October 4th at Munn Park in downtown Lakeland.

Community Foundation of Greater Lakeland, Inc.The Community Foundation of Greater Lakeland is pleased to announce that the following business and community leaders have been elected to serve on the Foundations Board of Directors, for the 2008 – 2009 fiscal year: Ralph Allen, Lew Belcourt, John Cannon III, Brenda Craft, Lynn Fischer Kryger, Sam Hart, A.L. “Judge” Holmes, Martha Linder, Charles McPherson, John Scheck, Sandra Sheets, Ihla Sloman, David Touchton, Jefrey R. Walker, and Terry Worthington. The tremendous leadership and expertise of these individuals will be of great benefit to the organization in carrying out its mission.

Watson ClinicWatson Clinic is pleased to welcome an additional member to our expert team of

anesthesiologists. Duane C. Baker, MD will serve all Watson Clinic patients who undergo procedures at Lakeland Surgical and Diagnostic Center. Dr. Baker received his medical degree from East Tennessee State University, Quillen-Dishner College of Medicine, in Johnson City, TN.

SCORECentral Florida SCORE is looking for volunteers to mentor small businesses. Call 863/619-5783.

Saddle Creek CorporationImproving efficiencies and accommodating seasonal fluctuations are two key reasons why Hornell Brewing Company, Inc., national marketer of the famous Arizona ® brand iced teas and other beverages, is turning to Saddle Creek Corporation for its logistics needs in the Southeast.

Bank of Central FloridaPaul Noris, President and CEO of the Bank of Central Florida, announced Gwyndolyn Hughes will be the Private Banker for the new South Lakeland office which will open in early 2009. Ms. Hughes was most recently with Regions Bank as Assistant Vice President/Assistant Branch manager.

Citizens Bank & TrustCitizens Bank & Trust is on the move again in Lakeland as Polk County’s oldest bank continues its westward expansion. As the signature tenant of the 6-story Citizens Bank & Trust Plaza on Lake Morton, the bank relocated its Downtown Lakeland office there in September.”The move to an existing high quality office building enables us to expedite our schedule to offer a full-service banking, finance, lending, trust and investments center in the downtown area,” said Citizens President and CEO Greg Littleton.

Waller Realty, LLCJimmy Waller, managing Broker, has successfully completed the following, the prestigious Certified Commercial Investment Member Designation course.

Talitha Bean, Commercial Property Manager, has successfully completed the following course, Certified Property Management Specialist Designation (CPMS).

Waller Construction, Inc.Brain Waller, of Waller Construction, Inc. in Lakeland, Florida has earned the designation of Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers Council. Brian Waller is one of only 2,000 professional remodelers nationwide who have attained or are in the process of earning the CGR certification.

Waller Development, Inc.Waller Development of Lakeland announces the current major redevelopment of the former Stille Real Estate Building located at 1602 South Florida Avenue. Waller Development has recently redeveloped Waller Plaza (801 South Florida Ave) and Dixieland CRA 2008 Award Winning Waller Lofts (1074 South Florida Ave).

ASC geosciences, inc.ASC geosciences, inc., through its affiliate in New Delhi, India, has been awarded a contract for geotechnical instrumentation services on an integrated gas utilization project in Angola on the west-African subcontinent. The Angola LNG project, a joint venture of 5 international energy firms, will ultimately tap over 10 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves from offshore blocks near the city of Soyo in the Zaire province of Angola.

Allen & CompanyA group of professionals from Allen & Company recently attended a conference facilitated by Cannon Financial Institute’s Chief Executive Officer Phil Buchanan, CFP. The conference was part of a comprehensive course study to obtain the Certified Wealth Strategist designation.

Allen & Company of Florida, Inc. is pleased to announce that Iradis Vazquez has joined the firm. Iradis comes to Allen & Company from Fidelity Investments in Jacksonville, where she obtained her Series 7 and 63 securities licenses.

Representative Seth McKeelThe Foundation for Florida’s Future released Florida’s Education Report Card, the inaugural guide on how well Florida’s legislatures are keeping the promise of a quality education.

The Lakeland Chamber prints business announcements each month as space permits.Please mail your announcements to the Chamber or e-mail membersonthemove@lakelandchamber.com.

More Members on the Move on Page 18

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ribbon CuttingsThe following companies recently celebrated their ribbon cuttings in the month of August.

See these photos in full color by visiting our Web site at www.lakelandchamber.com!

Ribbon Cutting Thank YouSpecial thanks to Mayor Buddy Fletcher and all of the board members and Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies a special event.

Citrus Connection/Lakeland Area Mass Transit Dist.1212 George Jenkins Boulevard, Lakeland, 33815

863/688-7433 Ext. 106www.ridecitrus.com

Explorations V Children’s Museum109 North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland, 33801

863/687-3869www.explorationsv.com

my Pet’s animal hospital2225 Drane Field Road, Lakeland, 33801

863/646-3669 • www.floridavet.com

Rep. Seth McKeel earned a 106% on his Legislative Report Card based on his voting record for the 2008 Legislative Session.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Lakeland, Inc.Congratulations to Mitch Weinstein for being honored as Boys & Girls Clubs of America Board Member of the Year for the State of Florida.

Lakeland Christian School, Inc.Julie Rice has been appointed Director of Community Relations for Lakeland Christian School. She will be primarily responsible for introducing the school to prospective LCS families.

All Saints’ AcademyAll Saints’ Academy experienced extraordinary growth and has nearly outgrown the capacity of its infrastructure (pipes, pumping station, communications, etc.), therefore, the school is in the midst of completing an important upgrade to ensure its current services meet the growing needs of the community and students it serves.

St. Joseph’s Catholic SchoolSt. Joseph’s Catholic School will celebrate 70 years of Catholic education on Thursday, October 30, 2008 at The Club at Eaglebrooke. Tables for 10 are $1,500 each and individual tickets are $75. For more information, please contact the Development Office at 863/683-8780.

October Members on the MoveContinued from Page 17

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• Go where your customers are — buses are where people are!• Reach them where decisions are made. Get them where they

work, shop, eat or play.• Get the tough-to-reach customer (reaches all age groups).• Lakeland Area / Polk County Focus• No clutter. Simple. Direct. More impact!• Frequency and Reach. Affordable — best cost per thousand,

just pennies a day! 688.RIDEwww.RideCitrus.com

Transit FactsWhy Bus Advertising?• More than 20 Bus Routes Serving Customers 6 Days a Week• Over 2 Million Rides a Year• 38 Buses and 15 Handy Buses in Today’s Fleet• Each Bus Averages over 6,000 Miles a Month

( 7 4 3 3 )

We keep your message rolling.

Colorful buses available and waitingfor your message, so call today!

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Hosted by:

Thursday, October 235:30 p.m.

1315 N. Florida Avenue

Now you can R.S.V.P. online!Please visit www.lakelandchamber.com to register using the Chamber store or call by

5:00 p.m. the day prior to the event to 863/688-8551 Ext 301 or

E-mail mstevenson@lakelandchamber.com$10 Chamber Member / $30 Non-Member

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