March 2010Vol. XX, No. 3

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

EconomicForecastBreakfast:Nationallyrecognizedspeakers makeeconomic pre-dictions.Page 4

We Are TheArts: Chamberhosted the2009 AnnualMeeting, whichhighlightedLakeland's artsand culturalheritage.Page 8

Business AfterHours:St. Joseph’sAcademyshowcases newfacility.Page 6

insidethis issue

FORUM FOR BUSINESSmonthly

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ALSO INSIDE: Upcoming Events • EMERGELakeland •RibbonCuttings •Members on theMove

• 2010 •LEGISLATIVEPRIORITIES

The Lakeland Area Chamberof Commerce announces itslist of priorities for this year’sLegislative Session.

One important issue is the“Vote ‘No’ on 4,” whichproposes an amendment tothe Florida Constitution thatwas previously referred to asHometown Democracy. Ifpassed, Amendment 4 wouldimpose a referendumrequirement on all localcomprehensive plan changes.Florida Chamber of CommercePresident Mark Wilson states:“If you like the recession,you’ll love Amendment 4.”

Other issues include energy,taxes, transportation and termlimits.

See Page 2 article.

THE LIFE, ART & VOICEOF CUBAN BORN ARTISTCARLOS LUNACommUnity Celebration 2010Featuring Keynote Speaker:Internationally known Artist Carlos Luna

Thursday, March 18, 2010 – 11:30 a.m.– 1:30 p.m.The Lakeland Center – Exhibit Hall

Purchase Your Tickets OnlineVisit www.LakelandChamber.comAnd click on CommUnity Celebration

Doors open at 11:15 a.m.

Ticket Price: $25.00 - Individual TicketsCorporate TableSponsor Available: $350.00

(all tickets include parking)

presenting sponsors:

Defeat Amendment 4: The LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce supportsefforts to defeat Amendment 4 whichwill lead to higher taxes, job losses andmore lawsuits.

Exploring Energy: The LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce supportsoffshore energy exploration and pro-duction to promote energy security andsustainability for Florida employers andconsumers. Any offshore drillingproposals in the Eastern Gulf of Mexicoshould allow for ongoing military trainingexercises and ensure the protection forFlorida's natural coastal and marineresources.

Energy Solutions: The LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce supports acomprehensive energy policy that balancesaffordable, reliable and environmentallyresponsible energy sources while pro-moting economic and national security.

Unemployment Taxes: The LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce supportsthe reestablishment of the base rate tothe first $7000 of an employee’s salary;we ask the Legislature to rescind therequirement to refill the unemploymenttrust fund within 3 years, and to suspendany increases in unemployment taxesfor 2 years.

Income Tax Increase: The LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce supportsstability and predictability in the taxesemployers pay and will oppose corporateincome tax increases, unitary tax legis-lation or other tax proposals that willdiscourage investment in capital orjobs.

Transportation: The Lakeland AreaChamber of Commerce opposes theredirection of money from the StateTransportation Trust Fund for non-transportation related purposes; wesupport an equitable return on localtransportation projects; and encouragethe FDOT to pursue efforts to redirectfreight traffic from Lakeland’s downtowncorridor.

Property Tax Relief: The LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce supportspassing a joint resolution and additionallegislation to stop the property taxburden on business property.

Property Insurance: The LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce supportsproviding more affordable and availablehurricane insurance to Florida's businessowners and reducing current andpotential assessments on Floridiansfrom insolvent state-run insurers.

Term Limits: The Lakeland AreaChamber of Commerce opposes anyefforts by the Legislature to imposeterm limits at any level of government.

Streamlined Government: TheLakeland Area Chamber of Commercesupports efforts to eliminate duplicativefunctions, bureaucracy and red tapeburdens on employers.

Cost Benefit Analysis of Legislation:The Lakeland Area Chamber ofCommerce supports providing legislatorsa cost-benefit analysis of legislation toassist them in prioritizing limitedtaxpayer resources as efficiently andeffectively as possible.

No.2

2010LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

VOTE ‘NO’ ON 4By Katie DaughtreyVice President of Public Affairs

Florida business and labor leaders recentlylaunched the “No on 4” campaign. “No on4” is referring to Amendment 4, a proposedamendment to the Florida Constitutionthat was previously referred to as Home-town Democracy. If passed, Amendment 4would impose a referendum requirementon all local comprehensive plan changes.

The Lakeland Area Chamber of Com-merce is opposed to Amendment 4 and

we encourage you to “Vote NOon 4” for the following

reasons:

• THE DISRUPTION of localcommunities and the daily lives ofFloridians will be extraordinary.Cities and counties will be requiredto hold elections for each proposedcomprehensive plan change - not justmajor projects, but even minortechnical details. In the last fouryears alone, this amendment wouldhave required an average of over10,599 additional local votes per yearin Florida. In fact, had Amendment 4been in place in 2006, the voters ofCarrabelle - a small Franklin Countytown - would have seen 617 separatequestions in a single ballot!

• THE DISORDER will further disenfranchise Florida's already-fatigued

Continued on next page

“If you like the recession, you’ll love Amendment 4”- Mark Wilson, President, Florida Chamber of Commerce

electorate. Voters will be delugedwith highly technical backgroundmaterials prepared by the localgovernment planning staff. Thelegalese of proposed comprehensiveplan changes, often puzzling for expertengineers and attorneys, will furtherdampen voter turnout. Lines at votingbooths will grow as Floridians attemptthe virtual impossibility of voting onhundreds of separate and oftenconfusing ballot questions.

• THE COST will be astronomical.Every city and county in Florida

will be burdened with the time andcost of holding additional electionsto vote on proposed changes tocomprehensive land use plans.Each of these elections will becostly. And with smarter growthstalled, Florida's robust economywill taper off to a recession whileproperty taxes skyrocket to pay thebills.

• THE RESULT will be a systemthat is far worse, not better. That'swhy respected environmental leadersrefuse to support the amendment.

They know this amendment willnot put a stop to all development,but will make well-planned,smarter growth impossible - therebyencouraging sprawl that reducesgreen space and makes effectivegrowth management unachievable.

We encourage you to regularly log on tolakelandchamber.com to read updateson the “Vote NO on 4” campaign and tolearn about the devastating effects thisamendment will have on our state’seconomy.

By EMERGE LakelandMarketing Committee

EMERGE Lakeland membersattended a Higher Learning Luncheonin January at Keiser University.Debra Wright gave a moving tributeto her father, Dr. Clint Wright.Members also learned about manynew and innovative programsavailable here in Lakeland at ouruniversities.

Dr. Tracey Tedder introduced thenew Florida Southern CollegeRoberts Academy. The RobertsAcademy will open in fall 2010 toserve talented first- through fourth-graders with dyslexia. The Academywill offer a full-day program offeringreading, math, science, and otherelementary school subjects.

Robert Goodman presented USFPolytechnic’s Blue Sky Incubatorprogram which has two Polk

County facilities. The Blue Skyfacilities are the first public businesstechnology incubators in PolkCounty. They will focus on attract-ing and nurturing entrepreneurialbusinesses by creating a place whereUSF Poly faculty, staff and studentscan work with businesses to developinnovative technology.

Members were also updated onKeiser University’s MBA program.EMERGE would like to thank all ofthe speakers for a great program aswell as the Rib Crib for a greatlunch.

Please join us March 8 at 5:30 p.m.at Natalie’s Sports Bar & Grill for adrop by social and on March 16th

for Breakfast with Elected Officials.We’ll hold a Professional Develop-ment Breakfast with Dr. Rob Tate atFlorida Southern College on April22nd. Details for these events andmore are listed on the EMERGEWeb site, EmergeLakeland.com.

Whether you are looking to networkand attend social events, seekingout volunteer opportunities or careerdevelopment functions, EMERGELakeland has you covered. EMERGEpromotes social interaction amongyoung professionals, opportunitiesfor philanthropic engagement andcareer enrichment.

Visit EmergeLakeland.com to learnmore about upcoming events, volun-teer opportunities and developmentand social outings. Find EMERGELakeland on Facebook and Twitter…even more opportunities to keep upwith events and programs!

Looking for a business or service?Lakeland visitors and residents are encouraged to do business with Chamber members. Browse the Preferred Business Directory tolocate the products and services you need. To view the directory, visit the Chamber’s Web site at:

LakelandChamber.com

EMERGE Lakeland Goes Back to School

No.4

2010 Economic Predictions Offered Over BreakfastNationally Recognized Speakers Present to Sell-Out CrowdThe 23rd Annual Economic Forecast Breakfast was held onJanuary 14 at the Lakeland Center. This sell-out event washosted by the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce andsponsored by Allen & Company of Florida, Inc. More than600 Chamber members and guests gathered to hear the highlyanticipated economic predictions for 2010 presented by NationalForecaster Brian S. Wesbury and Urban Research Specialist Dr.Robert E. Lang. Brain Wesbury is a nationally known economistwho comes to Lakeland annually for this event. Wesbury is the

Chief Economist at First Trust Advisors, L.P. in Lisle, IL. Dr.Lang is Co-Director at the Metropolitan Institute at VirginiaTech in Alexandria, VA.

As always, this event was a tremendous success and an exceptionalopportunity for Chamber members to gain insight into theeconomic forecast for 2010. To view a podcast of the event,please visit LakelandChamber.com.

Dr. Robert E.Lang presenting

his predictions for2010

Brian S. Wesburypresenting hispredictions for

2010

Photo Credit:Gil WilliamsPhotography,(863) 688-2949

By Nancy CattariusWONN/WPCV/WLKF/WPCV Radio

The Jere Annis Leadership Award was established in 1989 by theLeadership Lakeland Alumni Association to honor the late Dr. Jere

Annis, an organizer of the Leadership Lake-land Program, past president of the LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce, and Chairmanof Leadership Lakeland Class I and II. Dr.Annis, who passed away in 1989, was afounder of Watson Clinic. This award rec-ognizes a graduate of the Leadership LakelandProgram who has contributed significant com-munity service on a continuous basis withinthe Lakeland area with an emphasis on gov-ernment, civic or social service which has cre-ated a positive impact on the community.

In today’s world of modern technology it is possible to find outalmost anything you want to know about someone through Googleor your favorite search engine. Thankfully, what you cannot learnas easily is how a person is regarded by their spouse, their children,their co-workers and their peers. What is this person REALLY like,what is their true character? To learn more about our winner wedecided to ask for 6-10 words that best describe him. The words weheard are as follows: from longtime peers- visionary, strategic plan-ner, articulate, dedicated, calm, compassionate, protective, consen-sus builder, meticulous and sweet. From close co-workers- honest,dynamic leader, high level of integrity, sincere, intellectuallystrong, good listener, sense of humor, empowers others, greatparent. From children- generous, wise, stoic, determined, sensitive,a leader. And lastly from his spouse- loving, caring, considerate,unique, ever-optimistic, kind, generous, thoughtful and devoted.

WOW, to be described in such terms, we knew we had a winnerfor sure.

Jack Stephens graduated from the University of Arkansas, andcame to University of Florida for his MBA. After a very successfulcareer at Broward General Medical Center, and North BrowardHospital District, he came to Lakeland Regional Medical Centerin 1984 to become President/CEO, a position he has held for thelast 26 years. Jack’s accomplishments and leadership within hisindustry and associated trade organizations are very extensive andimpressive, but this award recognizes his leadership in our commu-nity. He currently serves as President of VISTE, he is a graduateof Leadership Lakeland Class IV and was Chairman of LeadershipLakeland Class V. He served as Chairman of the LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce, Vice Chairman of LEDC andCo-Chairman of the United Negro College Fund. He has servedon boards, either advisory or active of Polk Museum, United Way,Pride, Citizens’ CPR, Leadership Lakeland Alumni, PolkCommunity College Foundation, Barnett Bank, ImperialSymphony Orchestra, Junior League of Greater Lakeland, FloridaSouthern College Advisory Board of Overseers, and is a member ofRotary Club. He has been recognized in Who’s Who in America,and Who’s Who in the South and Southwest.

Jack’s beloved family includes his lovely wife Beverly and his sonsJack and Christopher. Jack will be retiring from Lakeland RegionalMedical Center in September this year, but we look forward to hiscontinuing leadership in our community.

Congratulations to Jack Stephens, the very deservingrecipient of this year’s Jere Annis Award.

Jack Stephens Recipient of This Year’s Jere Annis Award

Jack Stephens

By Gary ClevelandCleveland & Company, Inc.

Over 25 years ago, Jim and BrendaCleary began their landscaping business.In 1999, they opened their family busi-ness, Cleary’s Garden Creations.Cleary’s Garden Creations is owned andmanaged by Jim and Brenda, but cus-tomers have also come to know theirchildren, Kristen, Ryan and Austin whoare an integral part of the business.

Cleary’s offers Lakeland a quality retailplant nursery product line, but pridesitself in the customer service backed upwith years of valuable local knowledgein the landscaping business. Cleary’sbelieves that this type of knowledgeablecustomer service is their niche in thisvery competitive market.

Maintaining a quality plant inventory isa full time job. Plants are propagated inCleary’s offsite greenhouses or securedfrom the best plant wholesalers in thestate to meet the needs and demands ofthe Lakeland community. In a smallbusiness, business owners can changequickly to respond to the consumersever changing needs. Recently Cleary’shas made changes to product line offeringsadding garden décor and birding productsto respond to a need in the community.

Over the years, Cleary’s has been anactive supporter of the local elementaryschools by providing plant materials tohelp young students learn and experienceplanting and nurturing with a hands-onapproach. During the Christmas season,Cleary’s has helped Lighthouse Ministrieswith donated Christmas trees for theirsupported families.

Through hurricanes, cold temperatures,scorching heat, heavy rains, droughtand economic storms of the past,Cleary’s has provided a significant andpositive effect on our community. As atrue small family businesses, Cleary’smakes a quality difference in theLakeland area market.

The Lakeland Area Chamber ofCommerce would like to congratulateCleary’s Garden Creations as the SmallBusiness of the Month for February.

Small Business of the MonthCommittee Member GaryCleveland (Cleveland &Company, Inc.) presents theFebruary Small Business ofthe Month Award to JamesCleary, Jr. and his family,(l-r) Brenda, Kristen, Ryanand Austin of Cleary’s GardenCreations.

February Small Business of the Month Award presented

CClleeaarryy’’ss GGaarrddeenn CCrreeaattiioonnssJames & Brenda Cleary4680 Cleveland Heights Blvd.Lakeland, FL 33813(863) 644-1900(863) 644-7366(863) 644-1900 (fax)

February Winner

No.6

St. Joseph’s Academy showcases new facility during Business After HoursBy Sara OlsenSt. Joseph's Academy

St. Joseph’s Academy welcomed morethan 300 Chamber members to theirnew campus at the January BusinessAfter Hours.

Guests entered through the courtyardarea of the school where they wereserved beverages and mingled withother Chamber members. The tastyfood provided by Texas Cattle Com-pany and Harris Seafood was served inthe school’s dining hall.

Msgr. John Caulfield welcomed thecrowd, blessed the food and gave a briefhistory of the school. Principal LanaSwartzwelder accepted the Chamberplaque. Tours of the school were pro-vided by St. Joseph’s Academy alumniand 8th grade students.

The sponsors that made this event pos-sible were: DiCesare, Davidson &Barker, P.A., Thomas J. Stanton & As-sociates, Community Southern Bank,Texas Cattle Company, Harris Seafood,

The Gym Sports Bar & Grill and TheRed Door Wine Market.

St. Joseph’s Academy integrates faith,learning and moral values with an em-phasis on a sound academic program,based on research and results. SJAserves students from PK through 8thgrades. The school is located at 310McDonald Street in the Lake MortonHistoric District. For more informationon SJA, please visit www.stjoelake-land.org or call (863) 686-6415.

Chairman Joe L. Ruthven presents plaque to Principal Lana Swartzwelder of St. Joseph’s Academy, and Monsignor JohnCaulfield of St. Joseph’s Church

Supporters provided wonderful food in St. Joseph’s beautiful setting. e dining hall was a perfect setting for networking.

Photo Credit: Polk State College Student, Justin Green.

No.8

The 2009 Chamber Annual Meeting on February 2 was atremendous success! In keeping with the theme of “We are the Arts”, 2009 Chairman of the Board Anu Saxena (ASCgeosciences, inc.) presided over an evening full of entertainment– from a “Red Carpet” welcome to performances, exhibits andart work generously provided by Explorations V Children’sMuseum, the Florida Dance Theatre, Lakeland CommunityTheatre, Platform Art, Polk Museum of Art and the PolkTheatre. The evening’s cultural program culminated with anuplifting performance by the Imperial Symphony Orchestra.

We’d like to thank the following sponsors of the 2009 AnnualMeeting. Without their generous support, this event wouldnot have been possible:

GrayRobinson, P.A. AT&T

Center for Retina and Macular DiseasePublix Super Markets, Inc.

Watson Clinic LLP

e Scott Linder Small Business of the Year Award waspresented to Gulf Coast Avionics and Rick Garcia byMartha Linder, widow of Scott Linder, in whose honorthe award is named. (l-r) Chairman Anu Saxena,Rick Garcia, Martha Linder.

e George Jenkins Award was presented toformer Mayor Ralph L. “Buddy” Fletcher forhis tremendous contributions to the Chamberand community. Mr. Jenkins’ daughter, CarolJenkins Barnett, made the presentation. (l-r):Carol Barnett, Buddy Fletcher and ChairmanAnu Saxena.

Outgoing Chairman Anu Saxena (r) officiallypassed the gavel to 2010 Chairman of the BoardJoe L. Ruthven at the conclusion of the evening’sfestivities. Joe L. presented Anu with his Chairman’sPortrait which hung in the Chamber’s lobbyduring 2009.

Singing the National Anthem a cappella were the SatinDolls from the Harrison Center for the Visual andPerforming Arts

Imperial Symphony Orchestra MusicDirector Mark ielen conducted thefull orchestra in a variety of musicalpieces om Classical to Broadway toPatriotic.

Mark N. Miller, Esq., GrayRobinson, P.A., introducedLakeland’s Imperial Symphony Orchestra, in aspecial performance highlighting Lakeland’stremendous arts and culture community.

Imperial Symphony Orchestra Harpist DollyRoberts entertainedguests during dinner.

Pictured above, (l-r)Steve Newhouse,Lyle Philipson andPeter Munson sharea few words beforethe Annual Meeting.

By Kathleen L. MunsonPresident

The theme of this year’s Annual Meeting,“We are the Arts” provided an excellentopportunity for the Chamber to showcaseLakeland’s rich arts and cultural heritage.A highlight of the evening was a specialperformance of the Imperial SymphonyOrchestra.

The arts truly enrich the quality of life andeconomic growth in our community. Theimportance of arts to the local economy inevident:

Based on a 2007 study, the arts in PolkCounty generate an annual economicimpact of more than $73 million.

In 2008, Florida’s arts and culture industrygenerated more than $3.1 billion in localeconomic activity. This industry supports88,326 full-time equivalent jobs, generates$2.1 billion in household income to localresidents and delivers $446.5 million inlocal and state government revenue.

According to Florida Tax Watch, 74.9%of visitors to Florida participate in culturalactivities. Non-local visitors to these

activities spent an average of 137% moreon lodging, meals, retail purchases andtransportation than local attendees. What is even more important to con-sider is that, based on Department ofEducation 12th grade enrollment datafor the 2007-2008 period, the moremusic and arts classes taken, the higherachievement in all measures is achieved.In other words, the arts make you smart!

Unfortunately, Florida’s investment in itsarts and cultural resources has droppeddramatically in recent years. In 1994,Florida was ranked #2 nationally in percapita state appropriations for arts andculture. In 2009, the State was ranked#48, investing only 14 cents per Floridian.Because of that funding loss, approximately51% of Florida’s arts and cultural organi-zations’ annual operating budgets nowmust be raised through individualcontributions.

Now more than ever, the support ofLakeland’s business and communityleaders is critically important to thesuccess of these organizations.

Our area is very fortunate to have so many quality arts and cultural

organizations. As part of the AnnualMeeting’s celebration of the arts, sevenof these organizations were recognizedfor all they do to enrich quality of lifeand economic growth.

• Explorations V Children’s Museum• Florida Dance Theatre• Imperial Symphony Orchestra• Lakeland Community Theatre• Platform Art• Polk Museum of Art• Polk Theatre

The diverse opportunities that theseorganizations provide enrich our educational outlets and stimulate oureconomy.

Historically, the Chamber has invited anationally-recognized speaker to serve asthe keynote speaker at the AnnualMeeting. This year, the Chamber isproud to contribute those funds to theseorganizations as our way of saying “thankyou” and to offer the business commu-nity’s support during these challengingeconomic times.

Your Chamber is proud to proclaim….”We are the Arts”!

Arts & Cultural Organizations Impact Education, Economy

Florida Dance eatre’s ballerina KassiAbreu performs during the reception.

Orphans om Lakeland Community eatre’sproduction of “Annie” entertained the crowdwith their antics. Production runs March 4-21.

Pictured above, JosephRaffael, Solstice, 2008,watercolor on paper, 59 x86 inches, Courtesy ofNancy Hoffman Gallery.Exhibition through April 4at Polk Museum of Art.

At le, Annie and Sandygreet the Saxena children.Sandy is a rescue om theSPCA and will be availablefor adoption following theproduction. Learn more atSandyeRescueDog.blogspot.com.

NEW MEMBERSe Chamber is proud to welcome 9 new members for January 2010

No.10

Through their membership in the Chamber, businesses invest in themselves and their community. We urge you to to “Buy Lakeland. It makes goodcents!” 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 LakelandChamber.com!

Advanced Concept Innovations, LLC4100 S Frontage Rd, Ste 4Lakeland, FL 33815-3203(863) 577-8055www.advancedconceptinnovations.comManufacturersMatt Muller

Crystal Lake Middle School2410 N Crystal Lake DrLakeland, FL 33801-6238(863) 499-2970Fax: (863) 603-6267www.schools.polk-fl.net/clmsSchools - Secondary (Middle)Shandale Terrell

DJ Orthopedics1600 Lakeland Hills BlvdLakeland, FL 33805-3019(863) 683-5237Medical EquipmentKurt Stefan

Doster Construction Company8529 S Park Circle, Ste 130Orlando, FL 32819-9016(407) 248-9961Fax: (407) 248-9971 www.dosterconstruction.com General ContractorsJon Kirson

E & A Cleaning Inc.529 Brannen Road, W.Lakeland, FL 33813-2727(863) 644-4927(863) 646-2238 Cleaning-Commercial-Residential-NewConst.Deanna Chambers

Rebekah's Sole In Motion Dance Co., Inc.6935 Carter Rd S Ste 7Lakeland, FL 33813(863) 644-5678www.danceinlakeland.comDance Company/Dance TrainingRebekah McLeod

Spartan Staffing1001 S Florida AveLakeland, FL 33803-1117(863) 430-8428Fax: (863) 686-7391www.spartanstaffing.comEmployment ContractorsJoel Malek

Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center6597 N Church AveMulberry, FL 33860-2014(863) 425-3444Fax: (863) 425-0600www.tuffy.comAutomobile/Truck - RepairRobert Harris

Visual Print Group & DesignPO Box 93573Lakeland, FL 33804-3573(423) 421-3423www.visualprintgroup.comAdvertisingCarol White

Chris Georgetti (Florida Technical College) welcomesthe group and explains how FTC works, and howimportant re-training is to the economy.

Hats Off Volunteers Visit Member BusinessesAt the end of January, the Chamber was pleased to release the 2010 Buyer’s Guide and2010 Membership Decals to members. With the help of more than 60 volunteers, thedelivery of the materials went off without a hitch!

Each year, the Chamber provides businesses the opportunity to enjoy one-on-oneinteraction with fellow members through the “Hats Off!” event. Delivering updatedmembership information and displays to the Chamber’s 1,600 brick and mortar businessesis a major task, and this year’s volunteers were up to the challenge!

Florida Technical College played host to the team of volunteers, and coordinated withIl Forno Restaurant and Pizzeria for an outstanding breakfast. The Chamber is verygrateful to have Magnify Credit Union as a partner in the “Hats Off!” event. By providing100% recycled cinch bags for the 2010 Buyer’s Guides and 2010 membership decals,Magnify helped create a simple method for delivery and a beautiful package to share!Community Southern Bank and Fifth Third Bank deserve some special recognition forhandling deliveries in Bartow and Tampa respectively.

Special thanks go out to all the sponsors for the “Hats Off!” event, and specialcongratulations to the volunteers for taking the opportunity to meet and networkwith their fellow members!

No.12

MARK YOURCALENDAR

EVENTS

Monday, March 8EMERGE Lakeland Drop-In,

5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Natalie’s Sports Bar & Grill,

3120 So. Florida Ave.

Thursday, March 11Schmooze a’ Palooza, 11:30 a.m.

Beef O’ Brady’s Family Sports Pub, 4810 S Florida Ave

Tuesday, March 16Emerge Lakeland Breakfast

with Elected Officials, 8:00-10:00 a.m.The Lakeland Center,

701 W. Lime Street

Thursday, March 18CommUnity Celebration,

11:30 am – 1:30 p.m.The Lakeland Center,

701 W Lime Street

Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m.Office Furniture Depot, 2440 US Highway 98 N

MEETINGS

Monday, March 8 EMERGE Lakeland Steering

Committee Meeting, 3:45 p.m.

Wednesday, March 10 Government Affairs Committee

Meeting, 8:00 a.m.

Thursday, March 11 Leadership Lakeland XXVII,

Area Economy Day

Wednesday, March 17Executive Committee

4:00 p.m.

Monday, March 22Small Business of the Month

Committee, 11:45 a.m.

Wednesday, March 24Board of Directors Meeting

NoonLakeland Yacht and Country Club,

929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

JJAANNUUAARRYY TTOOUURRIISSMM IINNQQUUIIRRIIEESSDuring the month of January, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds ofindividuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses andthe Lakeland community

Walk-in Visitors..................................628Relocation Response Mailings................5Relocation Response (Walk In) ............28Accommodations...................................0

Winter Accommodations .......................0Visitor Information Mailings ...................6Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries.............139

No. 14

2010 North-With-The-Tigers

August 27-28-29Detroit Tigers battle Toronto Blue Jays

Accommodations at the Westin Harbor Castle-

38 stories overlooking scenic LakeOntario and within walking

distance tothe Rogers Centre, home of the

Toronto Blue Jays!

Remember—if you are interested inthis year’s trip, you will need a passport. You may obtain an

application at one of our local postoffices or go to the Web site:

travel.state.gov.

More information to follow or e-mailJackie Johnson:

jackiej@lakelandchamber.com

SAVE THEDATE

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

1947 – 63 YearsLanier Upshaw, Inc.1953 – 57 YearsGillum-Waddell Plumbing Co., Inc.Lakeland juMemorial Gardens1955 – 55 YearsUniversal Building Specialties1956 – 54 YearsBernie Little Distributors1960 – 50 YearsHauger-Bunch, Inc. Realtors1967 – 43 YearsMcKay Enterprises1968 – 42 YearsB & B Auto Body Works, Inc.1969 – 41 YearsJefferson-Allsopp, Inc.1973 – 37 YearsPAI Pension Services, Inc.1975 – 35 YearsSonitrolSoutheastern UniversityQuality Petroleum Corp.1976 – 34 YearsMusser & Richards, L.L.C.1978 – 32 YearsSouthside Package & Lounge1979 – 31 YearsHeacock Insurance Group1980 – 30 YearsBrowning Moving & Storage/UnitedVan Lines1981 – 29 YearsOverhead Door Co. of Polk CountyVerplanck Plumbing, Inc.

1982 – 28 YearsTidwell's Urethane Foam Service1983 – 27 YearsHarley-Davidson/Buell of Lakeland, Inc.1984 – 26 YearsKeith Hilliard, D.M.D., P.A.Register Construction & Engineering, IncThom Downs Antiques, Inc.Lakeside Pediatrics/Northside1985 – 25 YearsGivaudan FlavorsBrett Blackmon, Inc.Family Eye Center SouthFlorida Central Credit UnionBusch Gardens - Tampa Bay1986 – 24 YearsDaryl A. Johnson, CPASpherion1988 – 22 YearsTroiano & Roberts, P.A.Smith, Feddeler, Smith & Miles, P.A.GLT Total Office1989 – 21 YearsNewberry's RefrigerationALBE Stamp & EngravingW. Clinton Wallace, P.A.APG Electric, Inc.St. Joseph's Catholic Church1990 – 20 YearsRain Soft/Discovery Marketing & Dist., Inc.

Lakeland Housing AuthorityMcVay-Wood Engineering, LLC

15-Year RenewalsSummit Consulting, Inc.VISTE/Volunteers in Service to the Elderly

Florida Handling Systems, Inc.Mike's Painting & Home Improvements, Inc.

Florida Kitchen and Bath Designs, Inc.Bartow Printing CompanyCraig A. Mundy, P.A.

10-Year RenewalsGordon Appraisal Services, Inc.Rib CribHair Razors Salon, Inc.Platinum Financial PlanningGeorge Ross, Inc.Village at Lake Highland

5-Year RenewalsBlack & Brew Coffee House & BistroMimis CafePremiere Commercial Furniture & Design, LLC

Lilly, O'Toole & Brown, LLP

CONNECT WITH USBy Laura TaylorLakeland Economic Development Council

The goal of Y Lakeland, a program of the LEDC, is toconnect college and high school students to Lakelandwith information that is relevant to young people,whether that is finding information on an internshipin our city or what is happening this weekend in Lakeland.

LEDC's current intern is Lakelandnative Josh Nederveld, a student at the University of Florida. He is adouble major in Journalism andGerman. He combines his knowl-edge of pop culture and Lakelandwith his extensive vocabulary to connect you to our city.

At Y Lakeland, the blog topics aremany and varied. Some recent

posts include previews about local events, like collegemovie nights at Lakeland’s Polk Theatre. Josh alsowrites news updates from Lakeland and around PolkCounty, like the Legoland deal and High-Speed Rail.

He is always on the lookout for new stores and restaurantsopening around town—Evolution Records and JimmyJohns downtown have both been featured recently. Andhe features pieces on the city of Lakeland itself, such asgood biking spots and parks around town, which is justpart of what makes living in Lakeland such an amazingexperience.

For Chamber members that have children or friends incollege or high school have them check out our Website at YLakeland.com. To receive Josh’s daily blogs youcan save our Web site on your favorites or just do whatmost students do to stay connected, friend ylakeland onFacebook or follow us on Twitter.

Josh Nederveld

20+ Years Renewals

No.16

MARCH MEMBERS ON THE MOVEKimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.Is pleased to be recognized by FORTUNEas one of the "100 Best Companies toWork For" for the sixth year in a row. Evenin the midst of a difficult economy, KHAemployees reported high satisfaction withthe firm.

Southern HomesGerardo Miranda joins Southern Homes asa New Home Specialist. He would be sellingnew homes at Patterson heights in HainesCity. Southern Homes’ is pleased to announce December’s Sale person of themonth, Janet Backman. Twice in a row!

Cipher IntegrationsDon Kane of Cipher Integrations has com-pleted a certification assessing his knowledgeof installing, configuring, and administeringMicrosoft Windows Operating Systems andis now recognized as a Microsoft CertifiedProfessional (MCP).

Achievement AcademyIs pleased to announce that Cece Christianhas been hired as the Marketing Coordinator.Cece comes to us with a background infundraising and event planning for organi-zations such as The Lakeland Pig Festival,Lighthouse Ministries, Inc. and The JuniorLeague of Greater Lakeland, Inc.

Watson Clinic LLPClinic hand surgeon Anne M. Meo, D.O.recently received certification from theAmerican Osteopathic Board of OrthopedicSurgery. Dr. Meo practices from the MainClinic location at 1600 Lakeland HillsBoulevard in Lakeland.

Family medicine specialist Rony J. Alvarado,MD has relocated his practice to WatsonClinic’s Lakeland Highlands office on 2140E. County Rd. 540A in south Lakeland.He previously practiced at WatsonClinic’s Plant City office.

SCOREPat Dooley has joined Central FloridaSCORE as a volunteer counselor. His expertise is business management.

CPS Investment AdvisorsChas P. Smith, CPA/PFS, president of CPSInvestment Advisors, was keynote speakerat the CPAlliance Training conferenceheld in Celebration, Florida. His topic was“Retirement Income Planning”.

bd’s Mongolian GrillThings are heating up in Florida for bd’sMongolian Grill, thanks in large part tothe restaurant chain’s new Tampa-areafranchisee. Darryl Thomas has purchasedthe Lakeland, Fla., and Oldsmar, Fla., bd’slocations and has already begun his effortsto expand the brand locally.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate, LLCRichard Dempsey, ALC, Realtor®, andsales associate at Coldwell Banker Com-mercial Saunders Real Estate (CBCSRE)in Lakeland, FL, was recently installed asthe 2010 President of the Lakeland Associ-ation of Realtors® (LAR) for a one-yearterm of service.

AlphaGraphicsOwner Lyle Philipson announced JamesBohannon has joined the AlphaGraphicsbusiness center located at 4130 S. FloridaAvenue as a Sales and Marketing Consultant.

Imperial Swan Hotel and SuitesPleased to announce Jennifer C. Vinson,Outside Sales and Marketing has joinedImperial Swan Hotel and Suites. TheSwan has 168 rooms including 30 ExecutiveSuites with Whirlpool Tubs and over10,000 sq. ft. customizable banquet space.

Northwestern Mutual Financial NetworkThomas G. Pate, CLU, ChFC, CASL hasbeen awarded a professional designation inthe field of long-term care, Certified inLong-Term Care (CLTC). The program isindependent of the insurance industry andfocuses on providing insurance professionalsthe tools they need to meet their client’slong-term care planning needs.

Browning Moving &Storage/United Van LinesBM&S was Agent of the Month in Augustand won the 2009 “Heart of Quality” and“Customer Choice Award”. BM&S is oneof 500+ United Van Lines agents with afleet of 20+ full-time interstate drivers and25+ local crew members.

Danielle Fence Mfg CoProudly announces that Todd Weihmeirwill assume the management and promo-tional responsibilities for their new 20,000sq ft Outdoor Design Center opening inMarch 2010. As part of his new role, Toddwill coordinate the introduction of 25 newproduct lines.

Proudly announces that Jeff Vikari will betransitioning from his role as Director ofMarketing to lead the Commercial SalesGroup initially focused on the New HomeConstruction market. The addition of thecomplete outdoor living products lineoffers endless opportunities to their builderpartners.

Polk Museum of Art Is proud to welcomes new Curator of Art,Adam Justice. Justice will be in charge oforganizing the Museum’s exhibitions withthe assistance of the Artistic ProgramsCommittee. He is also responsible forworking with the Acquisition and CollectionCommittee.

Stinson’s Home Design CenterIs proud to announce that they have beenawarded the “ColorCenter of the Year” forthe State of Florida from Mohawk. Thishonor was presented at the December2009 Mohawk Floorscapes/ColorCenterConvention in San Antonio, TX.

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

No.18

RIBBON CUTTINGSThe following companies recently celebrated a ribbon cutting in the month

of January. See the photos on our Web site at LakelandChamber.com.

RIBBON CUTTING THANK YOUSpecial thanks to Mayor Gow Fields and all the board members and ChamberChampions who truly make these ceremonies a special event.

M.S.E.A. Solutions, Inc.www.mseasolutions.com • (863) 965-4621

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Any Lab Test Now4226 US Hwy 98 N, Lakeland, FL 33809www.anylabtestnow.com • (863) 853-8100

Tuffy Tire & Auto Service Center6597 N. Church Avenue, Mulberry, FL 33860

www.tuffy.com • (863) 425-3444

Each month, the Chamber enlists thehelp of 20 volunteers to mentor new

and currentmembers with involvement inChamber eventsand programs.This dedicatedgroup of profes-sionals is rewardedfor their effortsthrough a pointssystem, and theChamber Cham-

pion of the month is announced.

This month, the Chamber staff would liketo recognize Karen Houtz with Community Bank of Florida for heroutstanding attention to Chambermembers and attendance at events!Karen is a wonderful asset to the Chamberand to the Lakeland community!

Karen Houtz

CHAMBER CHAMPIONFOR THE MONTH OF MARCH IS

KAREN HOUTZ

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$10 Chamber Member ~ $30 Non-Chamber memberYour R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit BAH.LakelandChamber.com to register and pay using your credit card or email MStevenson@LakelandChamber.com to register and pay at the door.

OFFICE FURNITURE DEPOT310 MCDONALD STREET

FOOD & BEVERAGES PROVIDED BYHARRY’S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILLE

THURSDAY, MARCH 18 • 5:30 TO 7:30 P.M.