November 2010Forum for Business Monthly

By Sam NimahSouthern Wine & Spirits of Florida, CarBQ Chair

November is here and with it comes the start ofthe busy holiday season! Each year, theChamber kicksoff this time witha celebratoryBBQ lunch,made special forbusinesses andtheir employees.This year, yourcompany can rev up your employees’ engineswith a hearty lunch to power them through -into the new year!

On November 19, the Chamber, with the helpof Fred’s Southern Kitchen, will be serving upsome of the best pulled pork sandwiches in thecounty! Businesses are encouraged to supportthe Chamber and their employees by ordering

lunches for folks in the office. Orders of morethan 25 lunches can be delivered free!

Only have a few hard working staff members tothank?Drive on throughHangar #2 at Tigertown

to pick up yourorder & be theoffice hero with acomplete lunch foreveryone!

For only $10, yourcompletely portable

CarBQ lunch includes a pulled pork sandwich,sides & dessert! Order for your office todayfrom LakelandChamber.com or fax the orderform insert.

For additional information, or to find outhow to volunteer, call the Chamber at

(863) 688-8551 Ext. 228.

November 2010Vol. XX, No. 11

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

BusinessAfter Hours:'After Hours' funat Septemberevent.Page 2

SmallBusiness ofthe Month:Find out whois this month’swinner.Page 5

Board Retreat:‘New Normal’for Lakelanddiscussed.Page 6

insidethis issue

FORUM FOR BUSINESSLAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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

monthly

See CarBQ Sponsors, Page 4

Super charge employees withCChhaammbbeerr’’ss 44tthh AAnnnnuuaall CCaarrBBQQ

On November 19, the Chamber, with thehelp of Fred’s Southern Kitchen, will beserving up some of the best pulled pork

sandwiches in the county! Our famous 6 person Scramble will be heldon Thursday, November 18, at Lone PalmGolf Club.

Registration at 11a.m.Shotgun Start at 12:00 Noon

There’s still time to register for all theexcitement:

• Regal Chevrolet, GMC, Honda, Acura,Kia is offering special Hole-In-One Prizes—INCLUDING A NEW CAR!

• Citizen’s Bank & Trust jazzing up thosegolf carts!

• The Detroit Tigers/Lakeland FlyingTigers and Terrie Lobb Catering, Inc. areoffering exceptional hospitality with boxedlunches and an awesome awards reception!

• Ward’s Heating & Air Conditioninghelps you get started on the Putting Green!

• And competition for this year’sFABULOUS CHAMPIONSHIPTROPHIES…will Bright House Networks win again?

September BBuussiinneessss AAfftteerr HHoouurrss leads to more after ‘After Hours’ funBy Terry OttingerVice President, Membership Development

The Business After Hours was held at Fun Bike Center Motorsportslocated at 1845 E. Memorial Blvd. The Fun Bike folks reallyknow how to throw a party! MOJO's Wings, Burgers, Beer andPapa John’s Pizza provided food and drink, while the membersenjoyed 60,000 square feet of air-conditioned showroom. With acomplete line of motorcycles and scooters, plus any and all

accessories you can think of, and maybe some you would neverthink of, Fun Bike owners & staff provided a wonderful atmos-phere for networking and fun. Many great door prizes wereawarded and then a special announcement… open bar &karaoke contest at MOJO’s! Members danced and sang late intothe night and everyone reported having a wonderful time.Thanks to the Fun Bike and MOJO’s staff for a great event!

(Photo Credit: Justin Green Photography)

Joe L. RuthvenChairman of the Board

Kathleen L. MunsonPublisher & President

Amy S. WigginsEditor

Kingston PartnersDesign

Lakeland Area Chamber of CommerceForum For Business Monthly

Volume Information: November 2011 Vol. XX, No. 11

The Dorsch family, Elliott, Jordan, Dave & Nick, accept thePlaque of Appreciation om Chair Joe L. Ruthven

No.2

Liz Craven, ProAd Media, shows off her special door prize

The crowd enjoys food and relaxed atmosphere in Fun Bike Center’s giant showroom

By EMERGE Lakeland MarketingCommittee

EMERGE Lakeland members partici-pated in several events recently includ-ing an Armed Forces Celebration at theLakeland Yacht and Country Club, anetworking event at Texas CattleCompany and volunteering at LakelandChamber’s Politics in the Park.

EMERGE Lakeland will be holding itsannual meeting November 17 at the

Sorosis Building from 5:30-7:30 p.m.During the meeting, EMERGE’s 2011officers, committee chairs and steeringcommittee members will be announced.Visit EMERGELakeland.com to learnmore about upcoming events, volunteer

opportunities and development andsocial outings.

The EMERGE experience is open toyoung professionals (ages 21-42) whoare interested in finding a place in theLakeland community. You can followEMERGE on Twitter @EMERGELakelandand join the EMERGE Lakeland Groupon Facebook. Membership informationis available at EMERGELakeland.com.

Experience EMERGE

Monthly updates for Lakeland’s young professionals

By Kathy Wallen,EMERGE Lakeland Chair

EMERGE Lakeland proudly announcesthe first class of EMERGE Serves gradu-ates. From September through October,community leaders and volunteers pre-sented an intensive study in effectiveboard leadership for the group. The fol-lowing young professionals participatedin the ten-hour course detailing thefundamentals of board service and nowstand ready to serve the community.

Congratulations to:Chris Chaffin,SunTrust Bank

Tim Darby,Darby Law Group, P.A.

Cindy Green,Furr & Wegman Architects, P.A.

Matthew Green,Crowe Horwath LLP

Ashley Hall,Alliance for Independence,formerly PCAHC

Craig Hill,Law Office of Craig B. Hill, P.L.

Karen Houtz,Community Bank of Florida

Marci Miller,Junior Achievement

April Mullins,Bank of Central Florida

Callie Neslund,Representative Seth McKeel

Michael Riskin,CPS Investment Advisors

Jorge Rivera,CPS Investment Advisors

Rosemary Roudabush,Baylis & Company, PA

Mandy Sanders,The NCT Group CPA’s, LLP

Lauren Saunders,Saunders Real Estate

Lance Schmidt,The NCT Group CPA’s, LLP

Meredith Spresser,Polk Museum of Art

Thomas Stull,Furr & Wegman Architects, P.A.

Kathy Wallen,Baylis & Company, PA

Jeannie Weaver,JSK Consulting, Inc.

April Williams,Integrity Insurance Agency/Word AliveMinistries

EMERGE Serves prepares young leaders for board service

No.4

(Continued from Page 1)

CCaarrBBQQ SSppoonnssoorrssDIESELBright House NetworksFred’s Southern KitchenWONN/WPCV/WLKF/WWRZ Radio

PREMIUMPepperidge Farm, Inc.Rib CribSouthern Wine & Spirits of FloridaU.S. Foodservice

UNLEADEDBank of Central FloridaFurr & Wegman Architects, PAThe NCT Group CPA’s, LLP

HYBRIDBaylis & Company PA CPA’sDSM.netInternational PaperRTS Packaging

Thanks to our sponsors

ffoorr FFUUEELLIINNGG our CarBQ efforts!

By Cory PetcoffBaron Realty, Inc.

Gold’s Gym/American Fitness, Inc. inSouth Lakeland has been in businessfor 16 years! The gym opened to helppeople realize their goals and find theirinner strength.

Gold's Gym provides the latest cardioand strength training equipment alongwith a dynamic group exercise programthat includes classes like yoga, groupcycling, mixed martial arts, boot camp,muscle endurance training and Pilates.More importantly, they provide an en-ergetic, supportive environment full ofall kinds of people who are committedto achieving their goals.

Gold’s Gym is family owned and oper-ated and the three owners are at theclub daily. The dedicated staff in-cludes many with more than 10 yearstenure. This longevity provides theability to build and maintain personalrelationships with members.

The health club business is competi-tive, so Gold’s Gym takes the time tomake their members feel like family.

Members should feel as if they are partof more than just a health club. Thestaff strives to make Gold’s Gym aplace where everyone feels welcomeand enjoys coming back.

Parents can feel comfortable and dedi-cated to their fitness while childrenvisit the Kids Club. Kids Club is morethan just ‘babysitting’. Parents realizehow important it is for children toenjoy time at the gym. With daily fit-ness activities, crafts, games and more,the littlest members at Gold’s Gymstay safe and happy. The goal of theKids Club is to direct the child’s energyinto a lifelong love of physical activity.

With more than 60 classes per week,group fitness programs are rockin’!There are four group fitness studios(including private yoga and private Pilates reformer studios) with veryknowledgeable and passionate instructors.

Gold’s Gym is more than fitness and fun.Gold’s is involved any many communityand charity events. Each year they hosta “Spinathon” (Indoor Cycling), for theMarch of Dimes, raising anywhere from$3,000 - $5,000. This year with the ad-

dition of a “Pedal for Pink” ride benefit-ing Breast Cancer Awareness, Gold’sGym continues to find ways to give backto the Lakeland community.

This year, Gold’s Gym hosted “LeanOut Lakeland” coordinated by WhitneyCabrera with Strategic Wellness. Thisevent is designed to create permanentchange in the lives of Lakeland resi-dents. This eight week event began inJanuary and helped more than 70 par-ticipants lose a total of 857 pounds.As a result, numerous lives werechanged.

The Lakeland Area Chamber ofCommerce would like to congratulateGold’s Gym/American Fitness, Inc. asthe Small Business of the Month forOctober.

October Small Business of the Month Award presented

GGoolldd’’ss GGyymm//AAmmeerriiccaann FFiittnneessss,, IInncc..3625 South Florida AvenueLakeland, FL 33803(863) 646-3036 Phone(863) 646-6701 Faxwww.goldsgym.com

October Winner

Small Business of the Month Committee Member, Cory Petcoff (Baron Realty, Inc.) presents the October Small Business of the MonthAward to Zack Rogers, Gold’s Gym/American Fitness, Inc. Also present to accept the award back row (l-r) Mickie Rogers, Justin Youngand Kathy Neel. Front Row (l-r) Ridge Rogers, Cassidy Neel, Hannah Neel and Holton Neel.

No.6

By Alice HuntHunt Construction of Central Florida, Chair-Elect

The Chamber’s board of directors took part in a very produc-tive Board Planning Retreat on October 1-2, at SoutheasternUniversity. Special thanks to Dr. James Davis and SEU stu-dents, faculty and staff for generously allowing the Chamber tospend the weekend on their beautiful campus. Directors weregiven a unique opportunity to encounter firsthand the phe-nomenal growth that the University has experienced over theyears and to witness the plans for future growth.

The two-day planning session focused on “The New Normal:Doing Business in Today’s Economy”. Directors heard severaldynamic presentations during the retreat, including:

• “What does Florida’s Future Look Like?” presented by Dr.Dale Brill (President, Florida Chamber Foundation).

• An Economic Analysis of the “New Norm” and What BusinessesShould Look for in the New Economy, presented by Dr. R.Joseph Childs (Dean, College of Business and Legal Studies,Southeastern University).

• “Polk County’s Health and its Impact on Businesses andSchools”, presented by Dr. Daniel Haight (Director, PolkCounty Health Dept., and Associate Professor, College ofMedicine, University of South Florida).

• “Florida High Speed Rail Project and its Future Impact onthe State, Region, and Lakeland”, with presentations by:

• Chuck Barmby (Transportation Planner, City of Lakeland)• Gow Fields (Mayor, City of Lakeland)• Sylvia Blackmon-Roberts (President/CEO, Blackmon Roberts Group, Inc.)

Chamber leaders also heard how the following Key StrategicIssues (KSI) Committees are progressing in providing memberservices and value:

• Communications – Vice Chair Tim Jackson (NuJak Companies)

� • Talent Development and Education – Vice Chair Steve Moore (Florida Property & Development)

� • Member Value – Vice Chair Patrick Fagan (Fifth Third Bank)� • Public Policy – Vice Chair Mark Wilson (Kimley-Horn

and Associates, Inc.)� • Quality of Life – Mike LaPan (The Lakeland Center) for

Vice Chair Melinda Harrison (Watson Clinic LLP)

Chamber Treasurer Walker Wilkerson (The NCT GroupC.P.A.’s, LLP) also presented a Financial Outlook for theChamber, to provide directors with a two-year projection onthe Chamber’s financial resources.

Armed with knowledge and concepts from the morning ses-sion, directors worked in breakout and general sessions to iden-

tify priorities for the 2011 Business Plan that will add value toChamber membership and provide members assistance in ad-justing to the “new normal” of today’s economy.

Special thanks to Dr. Larry Ross (Distinguished Professor ofBusiness, Department of Business and Economics, FloridaSouthern College) for his excellent work in facilitating theRetreat, as well as the Chairman’s Circle, for serving as Retreathost.

Chamber directors and staff will now develop a business planand budget for next year with strategies to meet the needs ofour 1,700 member businesses. The 2011 Business Plan will bepublished in January’s Forum for Business Monthly newsletter.

Chamber’s Board Planning Retreat discusses ‘New Normal’ for Lakeland

Dr. Dale Brill, President of the Florida Chamber Foundation, presentsvaluable insight on “What Does Florida’s Future Look Like?”

(L-R): Board members Todd Baylis, Weymon Snuggs, Mitch Harvey andLinda Jezard discuss “What does the “New Normal” mean for Lakelandbusinesses?” during one of the breakout sessions.

Incoming board members Kathy Wallen and Phil Wegman work with ViceChair Patrick Fagan during a breakout session.

Courtesy of the US Bureau of Engraving & Printing

This Spring, businesses and consumerswill see their money move in a whole newway. The U.S. government will issue a re-designed $100 note with two new ad-vanced security features: a blue 3-DSecurity Ribbon and a color-shifting Bellin the Inkwell.

You can’t miss the blue 3-D Security Ribbonon the front of the new $100 note. Theribbon seems to be three-dimensionalwith bells and numeral 100s appearing tofloat or glide above the ribbon as youmove the note. You’ll know a new $100note is genuine by tilting the note backand forth while focusing on the ribbon.You will see the bells change to 100s as they move. It’s that simple.

A second new security feature on the new$100 note, also on the front of the note,is the Bell in the Inkwell. At first, the bellblends with the inkwell because they arethe same copper color, but when you tiltthe note, the bell changes to green. Thiscolor shift makes the bell seem to appearand disappear within the inkwell.

In addition to these new security features,the government also retained three highlyeffective security features from the old$100 note design, including:

• Portrait Watermark – Hold the note tolight to see a faint image of BenjaminFranklin in the blank space to the right ofthe large portrait. It is visible from eitherside of the note.

• Security Thread – Hold the note tolight to see an embedded thread that runsvertically to the left of the portrait. Theletters USA and the numeral 100 appearin an alternating pattern and can be seenfrom both sides of the note. The threadglows pink when illuminated by ultravio-let light.

• Color-Shifting 100 – Tilt the note tosee the numeral 100 in the lower rightcorner of the front of the note changefrom copper to green.

Prevent LossLaw enforcement officials warn thatcounterfeiters look for opportunities totake advantage of uninformed businessesand consumers when a new currency de-sign is issued. They are encouragingeveryone who handles cash to know thesecurity features of the new $100 note be-fore it begins circulating. Any business orconsumer that accepts a counterfeit notewill suffer a financial loss because fakescannot be traded in for real notes.

How to PrepareBecause cash handlers are the front lineof defense in the fight against counterfeit-ing, the government has developed anumber of training materials and re-sources to help them easily identify possi-ble counterfeit notes before they acceptthem.

The training materials can be down-loaded from www.newmoney.gov or or-dered by calling 1-877-639-2877. Theyillustrate how to detect a counterfeit notequickly and easily. A range of materialsare available, including brochures to handout to employees, posters to display inbreak rooms, training videos and interac-tive training tools.

What To Do If You Suspect a FakeIf you suspect you’ve been passed a coun-terfeit note, the U.S. government wantsyou to be aware of a few tips. First, try tonote the characteristics of the person whotried to pass the fake note and, if possible,write down a description of any vehiclehe or she drove as well as the license platenumber.

Next, immediately contact your local po-lice department or U.S. Secret Servicefield office. These contact numbers canbe found in U.S. telephone books or onthe law enforcement interactive map onwww.newmoney.gov.

Finally, make sure that you write your ini-tials and the date in the border of the sus-pect note. Remember to limit thehandling of the note and protect it byputting it in an envelope. Only turn thenote over to a police officer or a U.S.Secret Service agent. If the note is gen-uine, it will be returned to you. If thenote is counterfeit, you will not be reim-bursed.

You cannot trade in a counterfeit note fora real one, and it is against the law toknowingly try to pass a counterfeit alongto someone else.

New $100 banknote begins circulating Spring 2011

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

and currentmembers withinvolvement inChamberevents and pro-grams. Thisdedicated groupof professionalsis rewarded fortheir effortsthrough apoints system,

and the Champion with the mostpoints is featured in the Forum forBusiness Monthly.

This month, the Chamber staffwould like to recognize Mrs. ShereeSaulter, Community Relations Coordinator with Webster Universityfor her outstanding attention toChamber members and attendance atevents! Sheree is a wonderful asset tothe Chamber and to the Lakelandcommunity!

Sheree Saulter

No.8

CHAMBER CHAMPIONFOR THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER IS

SHEREE SAULTER

NEW MEMBERSe Chamber is proud to welcome 20 new members for September 2010

No.10

Through 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 atLakelandChamber.com!

America's Business Benefit Association1102 S Florida AveLakeland, FL 33803-1308(863)682-0129InsuranceSteve Dufaultwww.abbaplans.com

Bee 'Dry' Carpet Cleaners, Inc.dba Bee Sure ServicesPO Box 2216Lakeland, FL 33806-2216(863) 646-3544Fax: (863)648-1142Cleaners - Carpet/Upholstery/DraperySarah E. Wrigley

Blackwater Integration, LLC2828 States St, Ste 101Lakeland, FL 33803-7338(863) 937-9368Fax: (863) 937-9371Broadcast EngineeringStaci Martinwww.BlackwaterInt.com

Bodine Printing & Copy Center5711 S Florida AveLakeland, FL 33813-2566(863) 646-5704Fax: (863) 647-5465PrintingBruce Bodine, Jr.

Bubba Ques BBQ2444 US Highway 92 EastLakeland, FL 33801-2671(863) 665-4049Fax: (863) 665-5650RestaurantsShane Kossowwww.bubbaquesbbq.com

Cachina King Mack, P.A.1809 Richmond RoadLakeland, FL 33803-2541(863) 288-7667AttorneysCachina King Mack

Camellia Rose Tea Room & Boutique120 N Collins StreetPlant City, FL 33563-3318(813) 659-8287Fax: (813) 659-1802RestaurantsEllen Garrettwww.camelliarose.com

Farm Bureau2033 Edgewood Dr. E, Ste 1Lakeland, FL 33803-3660(863) 667-2001 Ext 4InsuranceDiane FaubertRyan Brownwww.floridafarmbureau.com

The Finishing TouchLakeland, FL 33803-5477(863) 688-8874Interior Decorators/DesignersFran Munson

Highland MRI2946 Lakeland Highlands RdLakeland, FL 33803-4379(863) 510-5944Fax: (863) 510-5939Radiology/ImagingRenee Kellywww.highlandmri.com

Brian Kuehner, P.A.4921 Southfork Dr., Ste 4Lakeland, FL 33813-2078(863) 646-5728Fax: (863) 646-8421AttorneysD. Brian Kuehnerwww.briankuehner.com

Neo Net Media, LLC6810 New Tampa Hwy Ste 600Lakeland, FL 33815-3167(863) 904-6949Fax: (863) 435-2166Social Media ConsultingSteven Goodmanwww.neonetmedia.com

Regal Chevrolet, GMC, Honda,Acura, Kia1025 US Hwy 98 SPO Box 90037Lakeland, FL 33804-0037(863) 904-1170Fax: (863) 680-2401Automobile - Dealers - Newwww.regallakeland.com

RL Barr Enterprises8410 Epicenter Blvd, Unit 1Lakeland, FL 33809-1774(863) 874-4830Automobile/Truck - RepairRobert Barrwww.rlbarrenterprises.com

Shalom-Center for Peaceand Restoration, IncPO Box 1250Lakeland, FL 33802-1250(863) 802-4814Fax: (863) 688-2169Social ServicesAltavise Henrywww.shalomcpr.com

Southern Gourmet Catering2124 Harden BlvdLakeland, FL 33803-5917(813) 716-5607CaterersHerbert & Trish Glaroswww.fredssouthernkitchen.com

Superior Spray Service1114 E. Palmetto StPO Box 8913Lakeland, FL 33806-8913(863) 682-0700Pest ControlLawn Spray ServiceKevin Blankswww.superiorspray.com

Total Body Conditioning, Inc.5705 S Florida AveLakeland, FL 33813-2566(863) 937-8996Fax: (863) 937-8997Health & FitnessMark Bodinewww.tbcpersonaltraining.com

Travel Made EasyLakeland, FL 33813-2634(863) 666-0331Travel AgenciesLaTasha Duncanwww.PremierTravelMadeEasy.com

TrueScapes Land Management, Inc.2179 Malachite DrLakeland, FL 33810-8244(863) 797-3009LandscapingEd Huckerywww.truescapes.net

CORRECTION: In the SeptemberForum, we incorrectly printed a wrong address for Sundown Southern Eatery.The correct information is as follows:Sundown Southern Eatery1100 3rd St. SWWinter Haven, FL 33880-2907(863) 293-0069Fax: (863) 298-0979www.sundownrestaurant.comMichael JohnsonRestaurants

No.12

Lakeland Flying Tigers GM named Florida StateLeague Executive of the YearBy Jacqueline L. Johnson, Senior Vice PresidentConvemtion & Visitors’ Bureau

In late September, The Florida State Leagueannounced its pick for Executive of the Year,Lakeland Flying Tigers General ManagerZach Burek. Burek will be honored in frontof more than 1,200 representatives fromMinor League Baseball and Major LeagueBaseball at the Baseball Winter Meetingsduring the Opening Session as well as theAwards Luncheon December 6 at DisneyWorld.

2010 was a record breaking year for theFlying Tigers:• The team established a new single-seasonattendance record at Joker MarchantStadium with 64,010 fans attending games.The previous record of 61,255 was set in1987. The club also set new records in con-cession sales and merchandise sales. • 2010 marked the 60th season Lakelandhas been a member of the Florida StateLeague (FSL). Lakeland was an original

member of the FSL in 1919 and has won fiveleague championships. Lakeland has been aDetroit Tigers minor league affiliate since1967, the second longest affiliation in all ofMinor League Baseball. • The season also celebrates the 45th an-niversary of Joker Marchant Stadium.

“I am very honored and humbled to be rec-ognized by a league with such great historyand tradition as the Florida State League”commented Burek. “This award is a creditto the hard work and passion of our entirestaff.” This is Burek’s 5th season as generalmanager and 10th season with the Tigers or-ganization. Burek started with the Tigers asan intern in 1997 while attending SouthernNew Hampshire University.

Congratulations to Zach and the Tigers or-ganization for such noteworthy recognition!

MARK YOURCALENDAR

EVENTSThursday, November 11Schmooze a’ Palooza, 11:30 a.m.Beef O Brady’s Family Sports Pub,

3120 S Florida Ave

Thursday, November 1820th Annual Chamber Scramble,

11:00 a.m.Lone Palm Golf Club

Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m.Southeastern University, 1000 Longfellow Blvd

Friday, November 194th Annual CarBQ, 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Tigertown

Thursday, November 25 & Friday, November 26

Chamber Closed in Observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday

MEETINGSMonday, November 1

Lakeland Chamber Foundation Board ofDirectors Meeting, 4:00 p.m.

Thursday, November 4Leadership Lakeland Class XXVIII

Law Enforcement/Judicial System Day

Friday, November 5EMERGE Lakeland Steering

Committee Retreat, 1:00-5:00 p.m.Baylis & Company PA CPA’s

Wednesday, November 10Government Affairs, 8:00 a.m.

BusinessVoice of Greater Lakeland, 9:00 a.m.

Executive Committee Meeting, 4:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 17Board of Directors Meeting, NoonLakeland Yacht & Country Club, 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR TTOOUURRIISSMM IINNQQUUIIRRIIEESSDuring the month of September, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundredsof individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businessesand the Lakeland community.

Walk-in Visitors..................................259Relocation Response Mailings................3Relocation Response (Walk In).............13Accommodations...................................3

Winter Accommodations .......................0Visitor Information Mailings ...................3Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries...............75

No. 14

Common GroundsA taste of local business one cup at time

By Bob ReadIndependent Associate, Pre-Paid Legal

Pre-Paid Legal was one of the first compa-nies in the United States organized solelyto design, underwrite and market legal ex-pense plans. For a low monthly fee of $26or less, the Company's legal expense plans(referred to as memberships) offer a vari-ety of legal services in a manner similar tomedical reimbursement plans or HMOs.

We give members access to professionallegal counsel not only for traditional legalproblems, but for everyday events such asbuying a house or a car, creating a will,handling a problem with an insurancecompany, dealing with identity theft, andmuch more where legal review should beroutine, but rarely is. These events can beamong the most important events in aperson's life, yet there is a tendency forthem to take place without proper legalreview. For Pre-Paid Legal members, ac-cess to legal counsel is only a toll-freephone call away.

The Company currently provides legalservices to more than 1.5 million familiesacross the U.S. and Canada. Plan benefitsare delivered through a network of inde-pendent provider law firms. Membershave direct, toll-free access to theirprovider law firm rather than having tocomb through a yellow-page style direc-tory for a referral. Provider firms are care-fully selected and the quality of service isclosely monitored to maintain the highstandards of Pre-Paid Legal.

Our members are served by a provider lawfirm which has been carefully screenedand selected by Pre-Paid Legal. Using theplan, members simply call their providerfirm directly at the toll-free number ontheir membership card when they have alegal question or problem. It’s really thatsimple. Pre-Paid Legal does all the work;

no searching for a qualified lawyer, noclaim forms, no worries about being ableto afford a lawyer – just peace of mind.

In addition to our family plans, we alsohave specialty marketing areas includingGroup Employee Benefits Plans, Commercial Driver's Legal Plans, andSmall Business Plans for the smallbusiness owner. You can learn moreat PrepaidLegal.com/hub/BobRead.

I have been a PPL Independent Associatesince 2001. As an Independent Associate,I have the freedom to work with you atyour convenience. I invite you to give mea call or send me an email to give you fur-ther information about Pre-Paid Legal.Call me anytime at (863) 512-1437 oremail [email protected].

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

Bob and his assistant, Max, ready for anotherday at the office.

The Lakeland Chamber’s newest member feature gives your business the opportunity to showcase “aday in the life” of your employees and customers. Each month, one of the door prizes available at theBusiness After Hours event will be a “Common Grounds” Lakeland Chamber mug. One luckybusiness will be drawn to receive a mug and submit a 350 word article about a “taste of daily life”around the office along with a picture of the mug in or around the business.

…

20+ Years Renewals1953 – 57 YearsSale Insurance Agency, Inc.1962 – 48 YearsLoftin Real Estate, Inc.1963 – 47 YearsRegal Chevrolet, GMC, Honda, Acura, Kia1967 – 43 YearsWatkins Associated Industries, Inc.1968 – 42 YearsHiggenbotham Auctioneers Int'l LTD., Inc1974 – 36 YearsRita Staffing, Inc.1975 – 35 YearsPoor Richard's Print Shop1977 – 33 YearsCPS Investment AdvisorsSam's Sport Shop1978 – 32 YearsHauser's Coin Company, Inc.1980 – 30 YearsSCMH Architects, Inc.1982 – 28 YearsPolk State College/Winter Haven Campus1985 – 25 YearsInnovative InkLilley Air Conditioning, Inc.1986 – 24 YearsSpherion1987 – 23 YearsCitrus Connection/Lkld Area Mass Transit DistUniversity of South Florida Polytechnic1988 – 22 YearsCentral Pavers, Inc.Computer Merchandise Corp.(CMC)Polk County Animal HospitalSmith, Feddeler, Smith & Miles, P.A.1989 – 21 YearsA-C-T Environmental & Infrastructure/American Comp TechAPG Electric, Inc.Cannon's Appliance ServiceEverest UniversityFleetwing CorporationImperial Symphony OrchestraMail Processing Associates, Inc.Mid-State Machine and Fabricating Corp.Rodda Construction, Inc.Tax Advantage of LakelandThe Fearn Partnership, Inc.Victory Church1990 – 20 YearsLakeland Housing Authority

15-Year RenewalsFlorida Kitchen and Bath Designs, Inc.Keith & Morgan, Inc.

10-Year RenewalsLee & You Investments, Inc. dba Publix Chinese Kitchen

5-Year RenewalsInsulfoam of FloridaLakeland Outdoor Advertising

No.16

NOVEMBER MEMBERS ON THE MOVEGLT Total OfficePleased to announce that Marc Burnett hasjoined the staff as an account executivebringing more than 35 years of sales experi-ence to the company. Marc will be targetingnew accounts to explain the benefits and sav-ings of buying office supplies and relatedproducts from GLT.

Baskets Instead, Inc.Is celebrating their 23rd birthday! DebeJordan and Mary Roberts attended the Atlanta Gift Market to ready the store fortheir 24th Christmas Season. Baskets Insteadbegan as a home based business in 1987. Thiswas the 61st market they have attended, in-cluding many International Fancy FoodShows held in New York and San Francisco.

CivilSurv Design Group, Inc.Mr. J.N. “Jack” Breed, P.L.S., Vice Presidentof CivilSurv Design Group, Inc, was awardedthe highest honor of the Florida Surveyingand Mapping Society, “Life Member”, tohonor his dedication and hard work for over25 years.

Mr. Kenneth T. Glass, P.S.M., Vice Presidentof Surveying and Mapping for CivilSurv Design Group, Inc., was elected to the 2010-2011 Florida Surveying and Mapping Society’sState Board of Directors as Treasurer and amember of the Executive Committee inNaples.

Sessums & Sessums, P.A.Lacy Littlejohn has joined the firm as an Associate Attorney. Littlejohn, a Bartow na-tive, graduated from the University of SouthFlorida and has earned her law degree fromBarry University with a concentration inChildren and Family Law. She has earned hercertification from the Florida Supreme Courtas a County Court Mediator.

Watson Clinic LLPIs pleased to welcome Duane O. Campbell,MD, to their team of expert neurology spe-cialists. Dr. Campbell will offer his servicesprimarily at Lakeland Regional Medical Center,as well as Watson Clinic’s Main location at1600 Lakeland Hills Boulevard in Lakeland.

Is proud to announce the addition of board-certified OB/GYN Diana L. Wilson, MD, toour team of expert specialists. Dr. Wilson willoffer obstetric and gynecologic care fromWatson Clinic’s Main Clinic location at 1600Lakeland Hills Boulevard in Lakeland. Dr.Wilson is board-certified in obstetrics and gy-necology.

Polk State CollegePleased to announce Capt. William Mann ofthe Polk County Sheriff’s Office has beennamed the director of the Kenneth C.Thompson Institute of Public Safety. CaptainMann has 20 years experience in the PCSOafter graduating from PSC’s Law EnforcementAcademy in 1990.

Also, has named Terrell Elliston to be SportsInformation Coordinator. He will be workingclosely with the coaches to develop the col-lege’s athletic websites and promote its ath-letic teams to students and the community.

Danielle Fence Mfg. Co., Inc.Proudly announces that Kim Bollinger hasbeen named the Product Manager for our fivenew lines of Outdoor Furniture on display atthe Mulberry Design Center. The new manu-facturers include; Brown Jordan, O.W.Lee,Lloyd Flanders, Casual Creations and Telescope.

Proudly announces that Kathy Barstow hasbeen named The Product Manager for ournew line of Gas Torches & Low VoltageLighting. See top manufacturers such as;Kichler, Tempest Torch and Legendary Lightsat our new design center in Mulberry.

Florida Presbyterian HomesAllison Stinson has joined Florida PresbyterianHomes as the Director of Marketing. Stinsonbrings more than 20 years experience in pri-vate banking, organizational development,strategic planning and human capital.

Also, the Porter-McGrath Health Center hasreceived the coveted State of Florida GoldSeal Award for Nursing Homes for the fourthtime. Implemented in 2002, the Gold Sealrecognizes Florida nursing centers that ex-hibit excellence in care management andquality of life for their residents, markingnursing homes of the highest caliber.

Coldwell Banker CommercialSaunders Real Estate, LLCJay Mathews recently joined ColdwellBanker Commercial Saunders Real Estate inLakeland, FL as Realtor® and Sales Associate.He specializes in commercial and land prop-erties.

Alliance for IndependencePleased to announce that Ashley Hall has re-cently been named the Manager of Mediaand Community Relations. In this role,Ashley will continue to build and maintainrelationships with the media as well as sup-port the organization by sustaining relation-ships with donors, volunteers, clients andtheir families.

Also pleased to announce two additionalboard members for 2010-2011: Suzette Jones,Community Volunteer & Javier Marin,SunTrust Bank.

Lanier Upshaw, Inc.Is very proud to announce that Ben Krieg,AAI, AIS, has been awarded the CharteredProperty Casualty Underwriter (CPCU) des-ignation from the American Institute forCPCU.

CPS Investment AdvisorsPleased to welcome our newest team mem-ber. Scott Sweeten has joined CPS Investment Advisors as Director of the CPSAlliance program. Sweeten has more than15 years experience in the financial arena.He has a BS in Finance from the StateUniversity of New York and plans to utilizehis vast experience in his new role at CPSInvestment Advisors.

The Lakeland Chamber prints business announcements each month as space permits.Please mail your announcements to the Chamber or e-mail: [email protected]

The following companies recently celebrated their ribbon cuttings in the month of September. See the photos on our Web site at LakelandChamber.com.

RIBBON CUTTING THANK YOUSpecial thanks to Mayor Gow Fields, Commissioner Glenn E. Higgins,Commissioner Phillip Walker and all the Board Members and ChamberChampions who truly make these ceremonies special events.

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RIBBON CUTTINGS

Polk Accident and Rehab Clinic708 S Florida Ave • Lakeland, FL 33801

(863) 937-8939

Watson Clinic-ExpressCare3615 S Florida Ave, Suite 710 • Lakeland, FL 33803

(863) 680-7000 • www.watsonclinic.com

Lake Morton Retirement Home, LLC610 E. Lime Street • Lakeland, FL 33801

(863) 937-9114

Joshua’s Kitchen2020 Shepherd Road • Mulberry, FL 33860(863) 701-6088 • www.joshuaskitchen.com

DeGeorge Custom Frames1837 E Edgewood Drive • Lakeland, FL 33803(863) 646-4955 • www.degeorgeframes.com

Jets Pizza of Lakeland3234 S Florida Ave, Suite A • Lakeland, FL 33803

(863) 709-0999 • www.jetspizza.com

Pro Med Healthcare Services2518 S Florida Ave • Lakeland, FL 33803(863) 669-0440 • www.promedhs.com

The Stanford Inn & Tea Room555 E Stanford Street • Bartow, FL 33830(863) 533-2393 • www.thestanfordinn.com

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