July 2009Vol. XIX, No.7

Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents! • visit LakelandChamber.com

SBA Awarded:See whoreceived theplaque for thismonthly award.Page 5

Chairman’sReport:An update onthe Chamber’sstrategy andprogress.Page 2

Stately visit:Chairman’s Circlewelcomes formerstate Rep. DennisRoss.Page 11

insidethis issue

FORUM FOR BUSINESSmonthly

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ALSO INSIDE: New Members • EMERGE Lakeland • Ribbon Cuttings • Members on the Move

Your Chamber of Commerce is a growingand dynamic resource for the Lakelandcommunity. Through events and publications,the Chamber offers members valuable andcost-effective brand-building opportunities;opportunities that are truly shaping Lakeland’sfuture. Each year, the Catalyst Campaigndrives the Chamber’s budget for the followingfiscal cycle by sharing these opportunitieswith our 2,000 member businesses.

Renew Chamber sponsorships & advertisingfrom now until July 23.

New sponsorships and advertising availablefrom July 24 to October 2.

GROWING GREENWITH THE CHAMBERSupport the Chamber’s Efforts to be thePremier Catalyst for Economic Growth!

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

Continued on Page 4

Clubs &Organizations

It is time to update ourLakeland Area Guide toClubs & Organizations.

Please contact usno later thanAugust 31, 2009

To ensure your club ororganization is represented.

Please contact Patty Smith at863/688-8551 Ext. 221

Or E-mail atpsmith@lakelandchamber.com

ATTENTION

Volume Information: July 2009, Vol. XIX, No. 7

Anu SaxenaChairman of the Board

Aaron BatesManaging Editor

Kathleen L. MunsonPublisher & President

Kingston PartnersDesign

Lakeland AreaChamber of CommerceForum For Business Monthly

No.2

Chairman’s Mid-Year Report

I have very much enjoyed serving as yourChairman this year and the opportunityto meet many of you at our Chamberevents.

Your Chamber has been actively workingthese past months to offer a broad menu

of programs that meet the diverse needs of our 1,900 memberbusinesses in these challenging economic times. We value theinvestment you have made in this organization, and want toreport on our progress so far this year.

At our Annual Board Planning Retreat last fall, the Chamber’sboard of directors adopted five key strategic issues to focus onthis year. Strategy Groups were formed to address these issues,chaired by the Chamber’s Vice Chairs:

• Communications, Vice Chair Sam Nimah (Southern Wine& Spirits of Florida)

• Education, Vice Chair Alice Hunt (Hunt Construction ofCentral Florida, Inc.)

• Organization Advancement, Vice Chair Melinda Harrison(Watson Clinic LLP)

• Public Policy, Vice Chair Mark Wilson (Kimley-Horn andAssociates, Inc.)

• Smart Community, Vice Chair Hugh Autry (LakelandRegional Medical Center)

Working with board members assigned to these KSI groups, vicechairs are developing short and long-term strategies to seek avibrant economic environment and high quality of life inLakeland for our member businesses. We’ll look forward to

reporting back to you as these KSI strategy groups move forward.

Here’s a few of the key initiatives we’re currently working on:

40-Year Accreditation –We are currently undergoing our40-year accreditation evaluation through the U.S. Chamber ofCommerce. Of the 6,900 chambers in the U.S., only 260 areaccredited. This represents the top 4% of all chambers in thecountry, and the Lakeland Chamber is proud to have achievedthe high standards set by the accreditation program for the past40 years.

Vice Chair Melinda Harrison is chairing the accreditation taskforce, and working with the following oversight chairs in thenine accreditation areas being evaluated:

• Governance – Tim Campbell (Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney& Lancaster, P.A.)

• Finance – Walker Wilkerson (The NCT Group, CPAs, LLP)• Human Resources – Don Selvage (SHR HumanResources, LLC)

• Government Affairs – Mark Wilson (Kimley-Horn andAssociates, Inc.)

• Program Development – Maureen Shaw (Flower Cart Florist)• Communications – Sam Nimah (Southern Wine & Spiritsof Florida)

• Technology – Todd Baylis (Cipher Integrations, Inc.)• Facilities – Joe L. Ruthven (The Ruthvens)• Benchmarking – Paul Noris (Bank of Central Florida)

Following submittal of our accreditation application in August,the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will make an announcementof our accreditation approval in November.

I have full confidence we will again achieve the accreditationhigh standards this Chamber is known and respected for.

Establishment of a Middle Years Program (MYP) atLawton Chiles Middle Academy –For the past several months, a group of Lakeland business leadershave been working with the Polk County School Board to createa Middle Years Program (MYP), similar to the InternationalBaccalaureate (IB) programs currently offered at two highschools in Polk County.

I have been proud to be involved in this exploratory committee,and excited to confirm that we have the full support of the SchoolBoard and area business sponsors to establish a MYP program atLawton Chiles Middle Academy this fall, which will be a feederprogram into the two IB schools in our County. I am especially

pleased that Lawton Chiles Middle Academy, with its

Anu Saxena(ASC geosciences, inc.)

outstanding record of academic achievement under the leadershipof Principal Sharon Neuman, has been chosen as the hostschool to launch the County’s first MYP program.

The MYP will serve as a tremendous asset to our Chamber andthe Lakeland Economic Development Council in marketingLakeland as an ideal location to establish a business and retainthe area’s existing businesses. Continued enhancements of oureducation system not only serve our students, but enable areaemployers to better recruit and retain qualified employees.

“Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents!” Campaign –I want to encourage you to support your fellow Chamber membersby doing business in Lakeland, and to prominently display the “BuyLakeland” logo in your storefront or lobby. If you need a windowcling to display, just e-mail mstevenson@lakelandchamber.comand we’ll get one to you.

Also, look for the “Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents!”commercials that Bright House Networks has produced andwill air on their cable channels over the next few months.Thanks to our Bright House partners for helping spread theword to “Buy Lakeland!”.

Please read this month’s Forum for further updates on what’shappening at the Chamber. We could not accomplish all wehave this year in leading Lakeland’s business communitywithout the active involvement and support of our members.Working together, we will continue to build Lakeland as THEcommunity of choice to live, work and play.

I hope to see you at an upcoming Chamber event!

Best regards,

Anu Saxena,Chairman of the Board

No.4

Volunteers from 20 Chamber member companies all workwithin their contacts to grow the Chamber’s base of supportand in turn, grow our impact on Lakeland’s economy. Bycombining all advertising, sponsorship and membershipresources into one directed campaign, the Chamber is able toproduce a confident budget for 2010 and allows Chambersupporters to do the same.

BE A CATALYST …The 2009 Catalyst Campaign will Kickoff on July 23 at theLake Mirror Tower Apartments Ball Room. For a calendar ofevents, or to learn more about building your brand with theCatalyst Campaign, visit Catalyst.LakelandChamber.com.

This year, Catalyst will be “growing green”! Throughout the 10week campaign, we will be reducing paper use, learning moreabout reducing our carbon footprint and celebrating greenspaces in Lakeland. The most exciting endeavor of the CatalystCampaign will be on October 6 when the Chamber comestogether to recognize the planting of healthy, Florida-friendlymaples around Lake Mirror. Your company can be a part of thiscelebration by sponsoring one of the twelve trees we will plant.For more information on this partnership, please contact yourCatalyst volunteer or the Campaign office.

Support the Chamber’s efforts to be the premier catalyst for economic growth!Continued om Page 1

2009Catalyst Campaign

Backer{ }

Twenty years ago, Denise Kilburn andKathy Shufflebarger recognized a needfor pediatric therapies in our community.Through hard work and dedication theirpartnership has grown into their currentoutpatient therapy clinic for children.

Located at 1215 E. Orange Street,Pediatric Therapy Services, Inc. (PTS)offers physical, speech and occupationaltherapies. Their building was custom

designed to enhance and stimulate thechildren’s experience at PTS.

Denise, Kathy and a staff of 20 therapistsare dedicated to building a team consistingof patient, family and therapists. Thetherapies learned in the clinic have to bereinforced in the home to achievesuccessful outcomes.

Each child is evaluated and given acustomized therapy for their needs. Theydiscover what a child loves, needs andcraves then deliver a therapy treatmentprogram that supports those desires.Successful outcomes can range from achild mastering a single new task to com-pletely overcoming their disability.

PTS is constantly striving to providetheir patients and staff with the latestinnovation in therapy. They provideemployees with advance training annuallyand offer internships to graduate studentswho need clinical instruction for thecompletion of their education program.Denise and Kathy believe they must

lead by example to demonstrate thehigh expectations they require.

PTS collects memorable quotes from theirpatients for both feedback and amusement.Recently, therapist Miss Diana askedpatient Elizabeth, “What am I going to dowith you? She responded, “LoveMe.” AtPTS children with challenges learn toaccomplish new skills through therapyand Love.

The Lakeland Area Chamber ofCommerce would like to congratulatePediatric Therapy Services, Inc. as theSmall Business of theMonth for June.

June winner

Small Business of the Month Award presented

PPeeddiiaattrriicc TThheerraappyy SSeerrvviicceess,, IInncc..1215 E. Orange StreetLakeland, FL 33801863/802-3800 Phone863/802-0480 Faxwww.ptsbeyourbest.comptslakeland@yahoo.com

Denise Kilburn and Kathy Shufflebarger, PediatricTherapy Services, Inc., accept the June SmallBusiness of the Month Award om CommitteeMember Don Pickard (Pickard & Pickard, Inc.REALTORS).

Just over 100 people were in attendanceat the Chamber’s first Pink Slip Partyheld on May 19. Everyone from newgrads to victims of recent lay-offs cameto Natalie’s Sports Bar & Grill tocommiserate about the job market andlearn about the resources Lakeland hasto offer. Presenting Sponsor ActionProfessional Recruiters was on hand toreview resumes and offer advice onopen positions.

According to Marsha Leap, LeapAhead Professional Development, jobseekers are charged with finding newand more creative ways to marketthemselves and their skills. Not onlywas Marsha on hand to dispense advice,Leap Ahead Professional Developmentoffered a résumé review/interviewcoaching session as a door prize.Even though Deb McCutcheon, withsponsor company Action ProfessionalRecruiters, didn’t have many openpositions to offer job seekers, she wasencouraged by the positive attitude of

those in attendance. She and herco-workers were available to accept resumes and offer a friendly ear tothose out of work, some for as many as18 months.

WUSF’s Robin Sussingham was onhand to interview some of the participants.Many thanks to our generous sponsors:Action Professional Recruiters; CreativElaborations Design Studio &Natalie’s Sports Bar & Grill! Withoutyou, this event would not have takenplace!

With the success of the inaugural PinkSlip Party, plans are already underwayto schedule one in the Fall! Look formore information coming soon!

No.6

Over 100 people attend Chamber’s first Pink Slip Party

Pictured above:Rhonda Freemantalks with BarbaraRiegle of ActionProfessional Recruiters, Inc.

Pictured le: Jobseekers, employersand educators net-work at Natalie’sSports Bar & Grill.

The rain stayed away to make the May Business After Hours a success!The Lakeland Flying Tigers and Lakeland Electric teamed up toprovide a full evening of food, fun and entertainment. ChefThomas Mackinnon believed that “if you GRILL it, they willcome”, and presented a fabulous buffet of traditional ball park foodwith some snazzy extras. With more than 200 people in attendance,you can bet that much of the conversation started over a mini beefwellington or stuffed crab! The experience at Joker MarchantStadium would not have been complete without some ice cream forChamber members and guests provided by Dairy Queen Northowner Linda Brown.

Lakeland Electric representative Barbie Taylor was on hand toreceive the plaque of appreciation and a warm acknowledgementfrom the crowd. Zach Burek, General Manager of the LakelandFlying Tigers accepted the plaque of appreciation and then invitedeveryone to enjoy a great baseball game between Lakeland and theJupiter Hammerheads. What could be better than a night at theballpark?

Thanks to Lakeland Electric and the Lakeland Flying Tigers forhosting a very successful and enjoyable event.

Flying Tigers, Lakeland Electric host Business After Hours

Barbie Taylor accepts the Plaque of Appreciation for Lakeland Electric.

Pictured above: Zach Burek accepts the Plaque of Appreciation for LakelandFlying Tigers.

Pictured le: We can always be sure that Gina and Bill Berry of Gina’s Cos-tume Rentals, will be “dressed” for the event.

No.8

Leadership Lakeland celebrates graduation of Class XXVIUnder the leadership of Stacy Campbell Domineck, PolkWorks, 28 business people graduated from the 26th class ofLeadership Lakeland. Established in 1983, the annual programis designed to identify leadership and enhance existing leadershipin our community. Leadership Lakeland does not take publicpolicy positions or advocate any individual viewpoint. Theprogram unites leaders from diverse backgrounds and perspectives toimprove their ability to lead effectively. The program offers its

members a broad range of experiences and insights about thecommunity, its people, its needs and its services. LeadershipLakeland is committed to participating in the succession planningof Lakeland's leadership.

The program is designed to create better informed leaders forour community and offer opportunities to build and strengthenrelationships.

Pictured aabboovvee, Chairman of the Board Anu Saxena, ascgeosciences, welcomed all the guests and congratulated thegraduates.

Pictured rriigghhtt, Greg Madden (Madden) and his wife, Lory;David Robinson ( DSM Technology Consultants) and his wifeShelley (standing); Mike Smith (Publix) and his wife Angela:and Kandis Baker-Buford ( BoCC) and her husband Willieall shared a table for the evening.

At llee, StacyCampbell-Domineck, PolkWorks, Chairmanof Class XXVI,gave her closingremarks to theclass.

Pictured aabboovvee, Graduate Ernie Ivey, Polk State College, brought his wife, Bernice anddaughter, Vandoline, to share in the celebration.

Pictured llee, Dan McBride, Class XXVI member, Victory Church, announced the plansthat the class has for Giving Back to the community. Please see related article in this issueof the Forum for Business.

Class XXVI

Chris Asbill.....................................Lanier Upshaw, Inc.

Kandis Baker-Buford...................Polk County Board of

County Commissioners

Sarah Case .....................................JSK Consulting, Inc.

Kay Cochran ......Marriott Vacation Club International

Bill Crowe ......................................................QMI/ITW

Jerome Ferson...............................................The Ledger

Danita Frier ...............................Central Florida Speechand Hearing Center

Tarek Garas .............................................Watson Clinic

Tim Harris......School Board of Polk County, District 7

Ernie Ivey ..........................................Polk State College

Fred Koehler, II......................................Smart Creative

Kelly Lane ....................................Boys & Girls Clubs ofLakeland and Mulberry

Mike LaPan ...The Lakeland Center – City of Lakeland

Greg Madden .....................................................Madden

Dan McBride.........................................Victory Church

Shawn McDonough ................EXIT Realty of Lakeland

Mike Micallef .....................Community Southern Bank

Laura Newlin ..................Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney and Lancaster, P.A.

Cory Petcoff .......................................Baron Realty, Inc.

David Robinson .............DSM Technology Consultants

Linda Skillern......................Crowe Chizek & Co., LLC

Jackie Small ..................................................Polk Works

Mike Smith ..........................Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Monti Sommer ................................................AMIKids

Anne Sullivan ....................The NCT Group CPAs LLP

Tracey Tedder.........................Florida Southern College

Naomi Tillett ..............................Keith & Schnars, P.A.

Jennifer Vaughn........................Bank of Central Florida

Leadership Lakeland is a fabulous experience that not only buildsrelationships and teamwork within its classes, it also generates anenthusiasm for making Lakeland a better place to live. The coordinators of the program work tirelessly to provide opportunitiesand experiences throughout the year to introduce its participants to theinner workings of our community.

Class XXVI, like all classes before us, graduated from the program witha desire to give back to our community and reinvigorate others to giveback. Organizations throughout Lakeland need us and our resources tofulfill their missions. Some people choose to give the gift of money.Not everyone is in a position to do so. Everyone, however, can givetheir time. After all, volunteering is one of the highest expressions ofcitizenship in action. Thus was born the idea of “The Challenge.”Leadership Lakeland Class XXVI is challenging all past and futureclasses to see which class logs the most service hours per year. And theclass with the most hours not only gets bragging rights for the year, theyalso win the Best Class 5 to 9 trophy. Class XXVI has committed togiving an additional 240 service hours each year. That is 29participants giving an entire day each of service to our community ontop of all the service each member individually gives.

The Challenge of volunteer hours by class is simply a way to encourageall of us to reach out and invest time in our community – and what afun way to do it. By pulling together all Leadership Lakeland classes,we can make a difference.

So, how are we going to track these hours? The answer isSweatmonkey.com, a website that helps you track your service hours.We have worked with Scott Fore, Class III alumnus, to have all of theLeadership Lakeland classes and participants registered in advance onSweatmonkey.com. If you are registered with the alumni associationyou will receive an email from SweatMonkey.com. Make sure youremail is up-to-date! If not, check with Lisa Oliver.

We saw the “Challenge” as a way to help make Lakeland an evenbetter place to live and work. We know that the current classes cannever catch up with the cumulative value of the dollars and time thatprior classes have given! We hope that this “Challenge” gives our pastand future classes a reason to band together in spirit for the bettermentof our community.

Signed

Class XXVI

The Challenge Is On

Leadership Lakeland Class XXVIpurchased the official award for theGive Back project, “e Best Class 5to 9 Award”. It is a vintage timeclock that as been ‘refitted’ with anew face of the Leadership Lakelandlogo. On the side of the time clockare 10 small brass plates ready to beengraved with future class winningteams.

No.10

The following business leaders are members of theChairman’s Circle:

• Ralph Allen,Allen & Company of Florida, Inc.• Ira Anderson,Crowe Horwath LLP• Alice Barr, BloodnetUSA• Dean Boring, Boring Business Systems• Cynde Bunch, Bunch & Associates• Timothy F. Campbell, Clark, Campbell,

Mawhinney & Lancaster, P.A.• Mike Carter, The NCT Group CPA’s, LLP• Gary Cassard, Bright House Networks• Jim Chaffin, SunTrust Bank• Ken Ely, Platinum Bank• Art Erickson, Florida Lifestyle Communities• Jerome Ferson,The Ledger• Buddy Fletcher,City of Lakeland• Scott Franklin, Lanier Upshaw, Inc.• Mike Furr, Furr & Wegman Architects, P.A.• John Griffin, Pilot Bank• Kamal Haider, M.D., Clark &

Daughtrey Medical Group, P.A.• Ford Heacock,Heacock Insurance Group• Clayton Hollis, Publix Super Markets, Inc.• Dr. Anne Kerr, Florida Southern College• Mike Kosor, Bartow Regional Medical Center• Robert Loftin,Colonial Bank• Mike Marino,Wachovia Bank• Leonard Mass,Drummond Company, Inc.• Mark Miller,GrayRobinson, P.A.• Sam Nimah, Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida• Bob Puterbaugh, Peterson & Myers, P.A.• George Rogers,GEICO• Art Rowbotham,WONN/WPCV/

WLKF/WWRZ Radio• Joe P. Ruthven,The Ruthvens• Dr. Lou Saco,Watson Clinic, LLP• Anu Saxena,ASC geosciences, inc.• Jack Stephens, Lakeland Regional Medical Center

• Gary Tarr, Pepperidge Farm, Inc.

• Ralph Weeks,Quality Petroleum Corporation

The Chairman’s Circlehosted its SpringBusiness Luncheon on May 21, and welcomed specialguest Dennis Ross as their speaker.

Dennis Ross, aLakeland native,served in the Florida House of Representatives from2000 to 2008, when hereached term limits.During that time, Mr.Ross held severalleadership positions onkey committees andlast year was recognized as Florida’s “Most Valuable Legislator” by the FloridaChamber of Commerce.

Mr. Ross recently announced his candidacy to run for the U.S. House ofRepresentatives representing Florida’s 12th District, currently held by U.S.Representative Adam Putnam. Representative Putnam has announced he isleaving Congress to run for Florida Commissioner of Agriculture in 2010.

Mr. Ross provided a historical perspective of the insurance crisis in Floridaand how the state has gotten to this point. He noted that government shouldnot be a player, but a regulator. He presented his 4 Fundamental Principles ofDennis Ross:

1. Insurance is absolutely necessary to the economy.2. Insurance needs to be backed by private capital.3.Those who choose to live in high risk areas should assume the insurance

liability (under Florida’s current system all Floridians assume a portion of the liability for coastal residents).

4.Mitigation is necessary in order for homes to be retrofitted to withstand storms.

In an open forum, Chairman’s Circle Chairman Timothy F. Campbell (Clark,Campbell, Mawhinney & Lancaster, P.A.) asked members for updates andannouncements and their views on the economic outlook. Overall, membersexpressed they were seeing positive indicators, with several reporting theyhave remained steady or have seen some improvement.

The Chairman’s Circle is a special membership forum for senior levelexecutives. The forum provides members with the opportunity to meet withone another, build relationships, and participate in strategic marketing and

leadership events to enhance their businesses and the overall Lakeland business

community.

Chairman’s Circle welcomes former State Rep. Dennis Ross

e Chairman’s Circle hosted its Spring Business Lunch-eon on May 21, and welcomed special guest Dennis Rossas their speaker.

No.12

Nominations sought for 2010 Board of DirectorsThe Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce is fortunate to beled by an elected 38-member board of directors and five ex-officiomembers. These dedicated volunteer leaders direct the governanceof the Chamber and represent the interests of our 1,900 members.

In July, a nominating committee headed by Chair-elect Joe L.Ruthven (The Ruthvens) will convene to nominate 12 new di-rectors to serve a three-year term on the Chamber’s Board ofDirectors, effective January 1, 2010.

Active Chamber members in good standing are invited to submittheir name or the names of other members who meet thequalifications of nomination.

Nominations will be submitted to the 2010 Officers and DirectorsNominating Committee.

Names of proposed board candidates should be submitted nolater than Friday, July 10, 2009 to: Kathleen Munson, President,Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 3607, Lakeland,FL 33802-3607, by FAX: 683-7454 or by email:kmunson@lakelandchamber.com.

Questions regarding the nomination process may be directed toKathleen at 688-8551, ext. 234 or to the above email address.

On May 14, 24 Chamber members gathered at WebsterUniversity in downtown Lakeland to learn more aboutdeveloping and amending marketing plans for all businesses.Speaker Terry Litterst, a 30-year veteran business consultantand marketing expert, shared real-life examples of marketingplans and successes in action. Attendees learned aboutorganization, customer service and time management and

how those factors make up a positive and progressive mar-keting plan for businesses of all sizes and scopes.

As a bonus, everyone was treated with omelet’s and breakfastgoodies from Chef Paulie’s Cafe & Catering!

Many thanks to those that helped make the morning meetinga success!

Speaker Terry Litterst, 30-year veteran business consultant and marketing expert, addresses attendees.

Chamber members learn more about marketing plans

20+ Years Renewals1954 - 55 YearsBank of America1956 - 53 YearsJenkins Lincoln Mercury1968 - 41 YearsWilliams-Hess Insurance1972 - 37 YearsRubber & Accessories, Inc.1973 - 36 YearsPeppertree Village ApartmentsCrowder Bros. Ace Hardware1974 - 35 YearsGator Realty of PolkAA Electric S.E., Inc.1975 - 34 YearsChuck Warnock-Realtor-DeveloperPhoslab Environmental Services, Inc.Crawford Bracken, P.A.1976 - 33 YearsPeninsular Exterminating Co.1977 - 32 YearsHarry E. Bopp, DMD, PA1980 - 29 YearsUnited Way of Central Florida1981 - 28 YearsReady’s Pool Service, Inc.Sunco Carriers, Inc.1982 - 27 YearsLakeland Automall-Ford,Mazda,Hyundai & Isuzu

BAGLEY Idea Pros1983 - 26 YearsLakeland Square Mall1984 - 25 YearsThe Parlour Inc. of LakelandKeith & Schnars, P.A.Primex Plastics Corp.1986 - 23 YearsDeli Delicacies, Inc.1987 - 22 YearsADT Security Services, Inc.1988 - 21 YearsMunchel’s Fine Jewelry, Inc.Lakeland Public Library1989 - 20 YearsEverest UniversityLake Morton Bed & BreakfastBrooke Pottery, LLC

10-Year RenewalsPop’s Painting, Inc.George Harris Youth Shelter

5-Year RenewalsSuperior Car WashStarbucks Coffee CompanyCommunity National BankFred’s Southern KitchenIl Forno Restaurant and PizzeriaMJ Innovative Solutions

RENEWALSThe Chamber would like to recognizeand thank the following businesses fortheir long-standing support and loyalty.

Cutler Associates, Inc.1643 Williamsburg SquareLakeland, FL 33803-4279(863) 646-0220Fax: (863) 607-4111www.cutlerassociatesinc.comRick LentzGeneral Contractors

Island Real Estate6101 Marina DrHolmes Beach, FL 34217-1553(941) 778-6066Fax: (941) 778-6306www.islandreal.comLarry D. ChattReal Estate

LensCrafter's3408 S Florida AveLakeland, FL 33803-4765(863) 646-2707Fax: (863) 646-0210www.lenscrafters.comIva KirkOptical Shops

LensCrafter's3730 US Highway 98 NLakeland, FL 33809-3809(863) 859-0110Fax: (863) 853-9344www.lenscrafters.comBecca JohnsonShawn PlunkettOptical Shops

Miller Safe & Lock815 N. Florida AveLakeland, FL 33801-1705(863) 688-2655(866) 852-7147Fax: (863) 687-7383www.millersecuritygroup.comJoshua DanielsSecurity Services/Systems

PortraitEFX by Samuel K. Hamilton PhotographyLakeland, FL 33801-5644(863) 808-7688Samuel K. HamiltonPhotography

The Red Elephant Pizza and Grill – OOppeenniinngg JJuullyy 3311sstt 5216 S Florida AveLakeland, FL 33813-2516www.redelephantpizza.comJason HornScott PaulRestaurants

Shield Security Systems, Inc.141 W Central Ave Ste 14 PO Box 183Winter Haven, FL 33882-183(863) 294-1824(877) 538-6393Fax: (877) 272-9446www.shield4me.comMarty SeniorSecurity Services/Systems

UroCare3644 Innovation DrLakeland, FL 33812-4105(863) 646-5789Fax: (863) 646-5834Stanley H. Shrom, M.D.Debra WillardPhysicians - Urology

Wesley Mission/The Sanctuary at Wesley719 N Massachusetts AveLakeland, FL 33801-1746www.sanctuaryatwesley.orgSheila GeorgeOrganizations/Clubs

Through their membership in the Chamber, businesses invest in themselves and their community. We urge you to “Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents!” bydoing business with these new Chamber members. For the most up-to-date list of members, visit our on-line Preferred Business Directory at LakelandChamber.com!

NEW MEMBERSe Chamber is proud to welcome 10 new members for May 2009

No.14

No.16

POWERNETWORKING

$25 Members Only - Limited SeatingPre-register at http://Schmooze.LakelandChamber.com

THURSDAY, JULY 911:30 AM – 1:00 PM

MT. FUJI STEAK HOUSE & SUSHI BUFFET2607 S. FLORIDA AVE.

POWER NETWORKING THE CHAMBER WAY!

MARK YOURCALENDAR

EVENTS

Friday, July 3Chamber Closed in Observance

of Independence Day

Thursday, July 9Schmooze a’Palooza, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Mt Fuji Steakhouse, 2607 S. Florida Ave.

Thursday, July 16Business After Hours, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.,

Alexan at Lakeside Village Apartments,

1555 Village Center Dr.

MEETINGS

Wednesday, July 8Government Affairs, 8:00 a.m.

Tuesday, July 21EMERGE Lakeland,

Steering Committee, 3:45 p.m.Pack the Bar 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 23 Catalyst Campaign Kickoff,

5:30-7:30 p.m., Lake Mirror Tower Apartments,

130 S. Massachusetts Ave.

Friday, July 24Chamber Staff Retreat

Tuesday, July 28Investment Committee Meeting.

4:00 pm

MMAAYY TTOOUURRIISSMM IINNQQUUIIRRIIEESSDuring the month of May, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds of individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses and theLakeland community.

Walk-in Visitor...................................383Relocation Response Mailings................8Relocation Response (Walk In) ........... 22Accommodations...................................0

Winter Accommodations ...................... 0Visitor Information Mailings .................21Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries...............50

No. 18

2009 LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP BREAKFAST

Special thanks to Senator Ronda Storms, Representative Seth McKeel, Representative Mike Horner, Representative Kelli Stargeland Representative John Wood for briefing Chamber members on the outcome of the 2009 Legislative Session.

Thank you Sponsors!AlphaGraphics

Bank of Central FloridaCF Industries, Inc

Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney & Lancaster, PAColonial Bank

Folsom Construction, Inc.

Lakeland Surgical & Diagnostic Center L.L.P.Marriott Vacation Club International

Representative Seth McKeeltmr Agency

Watson Clinic LLP

300 Chamber members attended this year’s Legislative Wrap-Up Breakfast

Chamber member Maria Mahoney (e Mahoney Group, Inc.)asks Senator Storms a question regarding the 2009 state budget.

Mark Wilson (Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.), Representative Kelli Stargel,Representative John Wood and BusinessVoice Chairman Tim Rice (Wards Heatingand Air Conditioning

Chairman of the Board, Anu Saxena (ASC geosciences, inc.) and Public Policy Chair, Mark Wilson (Kimley-Horn andAssociates, Inc.)

Chairman of the Board, Anu Saxena (ASC geosciences, inc.), Representative MikeHorner, and Representative Seth McKeel

EMERGE Lakeland is excited to announce the second annual P2PProgram. P2P = Peer to Peer Networkingand aims to enrich the professionaldevelopment of Lakeland's youngprofessionals by partnering them withexisting EMERGE Lakeland members.25 P2P members (non-EMERGELakeland or existing EMERGE Lakelandmembers) and 10 current EMERGELakeland advisors will participate in theprogram.

The program application period will beJuly 1 - July 31, 2009. The program yearwill be August 1, 2009 - May 15, 2010.All newly engaged young professionalswill participate in two Emerge Lakelandmembership programs in four specificallydesigned P2P events or activities.

Please visit www.emergelakeland.com/p2p/for more information.

EMERGE Lakeland members attendeda “30-second commercial” developmentluncheon hosted by GrillSmith on May

20. Terry Ottinger, Vice President ofMembership Development at theLakeland Area Chamber of Commerce,shared his tips and tools for creatingyour “30-second commercial.” Marketingand personal branding are hot topics intoday’s marketplace and the object ofboth is simple: let people know who youare and what you do! After Terry’spresentation attendees had an opportunity to present their own 30-second commercial and were offeredtips for improvement. A very specialthanks to Terry and GrillSmith.

July brings our annual Pack the Barevent. Lots of networking and fun ishad at this event. Don’t miss it! In August, EMERGE Lakeland will be

hosted by United Way of CentralFlorida at Lone Palm for the Apronsevent. This is a wonderful opportunityto relax and enjoy a great meal preparedby the Aprons team. Also in August,EMERGE Lakeland is looking forwardto ‘Pounding the Pavement’ at FirstFriday in promoting out ‘EMERGEGoes Green’ initiative. Our members willbe helping educate about the benefitsof becoming a ‘Green Community.’

Professional development is one missionof EMERGE. EMERGE promotes socialinteraction among young professionals,opportunities for philanthropic engagement and career enrichment.

Visit www.EmergeLakeland.com tolearn more about upcoming events,volunteer opportunities and developmentand social outings.

You can also click on the EMERGElogo on www.lakelandchamber.com.

FEEDBACKWANTEDPreparations are underway

for next year, and we are in

the midst of making

decisions for the 2010

Buyer’s Guide.

Your feedback is

important to us, and we

would like to hear from you

about what you would like

to see in next year’s

Buyer’s Guide. So please

help us by visiting

Survey.LakelandChamber.com

EMERGE Lakeland’s second annual P2P Program to kick off

No.20

JULY MEMBERS ON THE MOVEOMS Group, IncShaunet Prokuski recently joined as aleading benefits and payroll firm, as theEnrollment Specialist.

Cheryl Sanna has joined as a leadingbenefits and payroll firm, as a BusinessConsultant.

ALL STAR Bleachers, IncPleased to announce the launch of itsnewly redesigned website. The site iswww.allstarbleachers.com.

Mine & Mill Supply CoElected officers: Leon H. Handley,chairman of the board, Robert Tidwell, executive vice president and vicechairman of the board; Richard W. Hart,president and chief operating officer; JohnA. Eady Jr., vice president; Charles E.Fitzgerald, comptroller and secretarytreasurer.

Perpetual Technology SolutionsWelcomes Patrick Sullivan to their team.Patrick’s role will be focusing on providingour customers with Managed Services.

Congratulations to Greg Rath whosuccessfully achieved the CISCO SMBspecialization for engineers.

Environmental Compliance Services, IncECS announces its acquisition of

Enviro-Logical Solutions, Inc. of Tampa, FL.

Watson Clinic and the Center forCancer Care & ResearchProud to announce the recent recognitionof Clinical Director Mary Ann Blanchardas the Polk County Nursing Consortium’sNurse of the Year in the Manager category.

Creative Contractors, IncCreative builds Non-Profit Headquartersfor Neighborly Care Network whoprovides meals and other life-sustainingservices to seniors and their family.

Gina’s Costume RentalsMoved to 2000 S. Combee Road,Lakeland, FL 33801 – just 1 buildingSouth of the previous location.

Sessums and Sessums, P.A.Brian Monk has joined the law firm of Sessums and Sessums, P.A.

Lanier UpshawIs proud to announce that the InsuranceProfessionals of Polk County namedDeborah Winters, Assistant VP, as the2008-2009 Insurance Professional of theYear, and Scott Franklin, President andCEO, as the 2008-2009 VIP of the Year!

Baylis & Company, PACommunity Team recently volunteeredtheir time with Paint Your Heart OutLakeland by delivering food and suppliesto the teams who were painting houses forthe elderly and disabled in the Lakeland area.

Baron RealtyBaron has just secured a lease fromJannabelle’s Bridal to open its doors at4204 South Florida Ave.

Agnini Family Dental CenterAnnouncing their new State-of-the-ArtFacility, with a custom waterfall thatprovides a serene backdrop for thetreatment rooms, located in NorthLakeland at 1805 Lakeland Hills Blvd.

CPS Investment AdvisorsGary Clark, CPS Investment Advisors,Director Institutional Retirement Plans,participated in the Morningstar Investment Conference 2009 in Chicago,Illinois.

Fantasy of FlightGeneral Manager Kim Long honored with“Innovative Marketing Award” from PolkCounty Tourism and Sports Marketing.

Digital Imaging & Consulting, Inc.Digital Imaging and Consulting haspartnered with Alternative Capital toprovide financing options in purchasingtheir products and services.

Holiday Inn Lakeland-SouthSusan Needham, General Manager, isproud to announce the Holiday InnSouth-Lakeland was awarded the mostimproved guest satisfaction scores in theregion, including Orlando and 39 fullservice Holiday Inn Hotels. Results werebased over 2008 and 2009

Watson Clinic, LLPProud to announce that Elisabeth L.Dupont, M.D., a breast surgeon located atWatson Clinic Women’s Center, recentlyreceived a Mastery of Breast Surgerycertification from the American Societyof Breast Surgeons.

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

Continued on Page 19

No.22

RIBBON CUTTINGSThe following companies recently celebrated their ribbon cuttings in the month of May

See the photos on our Web site at LaklandChamber.com.

RIBBON CUTTING THANK YOUSpecial thanks to Mayor Buddy Fletcher, City Commissioner Jim Verplanck and Glenn Higgins and all of the board members and chamber champions who truly make these ceremonies a special event.

AFLAC — Nadine Perez863/248-4951 • www.aflac.com

Privileged Critters1004 W. Main Street

863/521-1360 • www.privilegedcritters.com

SPCA5850 Brannen Rd S

863/646-7722 • www.lovemyspca.com

Zimmermann Associates, Inc.Announcing that G.F. “Sunny” Zimmermann,Inc., President of Zimmermann Associates,Inc., has received the Big50 award from na-tional trade publication, REMODELING. Theaward recognizes excellence within the indus-try, awarded to only 50 owners of remodelingcompanies throughout the country each year.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunder Real EstateAnnounces Kevin L. Kelley joining as aRealtor® and Sale Associates.

On the Move (Continued om Page 17)

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$10 Chamber Member ~ $30 GuestsPlease R.S.V.P. by 5:00 p.m. the day prior to the event. You may register and pay online at LakelandChamber.com or by E-mailing: mstevenson@lakelandchamber.com

ALEXAN AT LAKESIDE VILLAGE APARTMENTS

THURSDAY, JULY 16 • 5:30 TO 7:30 P.M.

1555 VILLAGE CENTER DRIVE