Noteworthy - April - June

APRIL/MAY/ JUNE 2024

NOTEWORTHY

An official publication of the Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce

“Networking is an investment in your business. It takes time and when done correctly, can yield great results for years to come.” ― Diane Helbig

The Chamber of Commerce opens doors to invaluable connections, strategic partnerships, and boundless growth opportunities for businesses of all sizes

CHCC Office

6152 Delancey Station Street Suite 205 Riverview, FL 33578 www.riverviewchamber.com 813-234-5944

Office Hours

Mon.-Thurs. 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Fri. 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Mission Statement Our mission is to empower and foster a vibrant and thriving business community by having a commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, excellence, and advocacy for all businesses.

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How to Network Within the Chamber The Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce serves as an excellent source of networking opportunities for our members: Our Diverse Membership Base: Our members include businesses of all sizes and industries, professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders from over 77 zip codes. This diversity creates a rich pool of contacts and potential collaborators for networking.

Regular Events and Activities: Our Chamber organizes a wide range of networking events, such as mixers, luncheons, workshops, and seminars, providing members with numerous opportunities to meet and connect with other professionals face-to-face.

Business Advocacy and Support: As a Chamber, we often advocate for the interests of our members at the local, regional, and sometimes even national levels. By participating in Chamber activities and initiatives, members can build relationships with influential stakeholders and decision-makers in government, industry, and the community.

Stay informed of the latest Chamber news and happenings

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Access to Resources and Information: The Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce provides valuable resources, information, and educational opportunities to help businesses thrive.

Networking events often include presentations, panel discussions, and workshops on topics relevant to business growth, development, and success.

Business Referral Networks: As a Chamber of Commerce, we facilitate formal or informal business referral networks, where members can exchange leads, referrals, and business opportunities with one another, leading to increased sales and new partnerships.

Online Networking Platforms: With our new website, the Chamber will offer online networking platforms or directories where members can connect virtually, share resources, and engage in discussions, expanding networking opportunities beyond traditional in-person events.

Overall, our Chamber of Commerce serves as a dynamic hub for networking, providing members with the tools, resources, and connections they need to grow their businesses and succeed in the local business community.

“Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.” Michele Jennae 3

Thank You to Our Investing Partners Le

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Directory PAGE CHCC Board of Directors ______________________________________

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CHCC Ambassador Team ______________________________________

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Welcome New Members ______________________________________

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Renewing Members ___________________________________________

16 - 19

Signature Events in 2024 _____________________________________

20 - 27

Chamber Connections ________________________________________

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Chamber Committees ________________________________________

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Chamber Happenings _________________________________________

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In the Know ___________________________________________________

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Education and Training ________________________________________

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Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies ___________________________________

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CHCC Calendars _______________________________________________

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Your Chamber Membership: Expands your network Provides key business resources Supports your professional development Increases your credibility Helps you make business contacts

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Board of Directors

Chair of the Board Tammy See OEL Heating & Cooling

Jim Johnson Board Emeritus

Dave Boyle YMCA Camp Cristina

Gabriel Mbulo Edward Jones

Treasurer Theresa Sharkey Your Pie

Past Chair Michael Broussard The Flying Locksmiths

Ron Akers FruxPay

Annette Bilyeu Spectrum Reach

Joel Brown Tampa Electric

Jeff Campbell

Patrick Downes St. Joseph Hospital South

John Mayhew Mayhew Mediations

Elena Westrop Charity Clothing Pickup

Artie Wright Suncoast Credit Union

Lydansco Business Consulting Strategic Planning & Funding, LLC

Jason Newmyer AdventHealth-Riverview

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CHCC Ambassador Team

Co-Leader Melissa Canfield

Co-Leader Lisa Tackus

Grease Monkey

Align Right

Spectrum Reach

Brittany Petrie Bank OZK

Dawn Myers

Elena Westrop

Annette Bilyeu

Craig Beckinger An ABC Event, Inc.

Dave Lechuga Florida Executive Realty

Myers Law PA

Charity Clothing Pickup

Howell Hunt Ace Hardware

Joe Eletto

Joe Nichols

Century 21 Beggins

trax - Credit Union

Lisa Jordan

Melissa Hartmann

Accent American, Inc.

Osprey Observer

Jen Friedrichsen T & J Painting, LLC

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CHCC Ambassador Team

Michael Beiter

Jason Jones

Pat Magruder

Raquel Betancourt

Preservation 1st Financial Group

Bayview Graphix

Magruder Agency

Fifth Third Bank

Renee Scott

Richard Rohde

Renee Scott Insurance

R Processor, Inc.

Ron Akers

Tammy Dotson

FruxPay

Time 2 S.H.I.N.E. Consulting

Tammy See OEL Heating & Cooling

Are you interested in becoming an Ambassador?

Ambassadors are highly visible, prestigious volunteers who serve as the Chamber's primary liaison to Chamber members. Considered the goodwill arm of the Chamber, the Ambassador Team plays an essential role in member recruitment, communication, and retention. Each Ambassador is charged with conveying member needs, questions, and concerns to Chamber staff, keeping our Chamber in line with our members' desires. Each Ambassador makes a commitment to build lasting relationships with the community in order to build a loyal, committed membership base that will continue to support, participate, and invest in the Chamber. If you are interested in being an Ambassador or would like more information, please contact Sheri today at (813) 2345944 or Sheri@RiverviewChamber.com

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CHCC Ambassador Team Congratulations to the Ambassador of the Quarter - Annette Bilyeu with Spectrum Reach!

Built for What’s Now and What’s Next Spectrum Reach is your trusted media expert, delivering multiscreen solutions to get your message in front of the right audiences. They connect businesses to consumers across every screen alongside premium video content.

With insight-driven advertising solutions for your business, they deliver scale, impact, and innovation so you get the most for your advertising spend—whether you advertise nationally or in a single zip code. They also offer media that moves with your audience. Spectrum Reach helps clients deliver reach at scale, on a national to local to hyper-local level, reaching up to 97% of consumers in the US. They have access to millions of exclusive viewership insights, hundreds of networks, and premium programming. This data allows them to target customers across all screens—and maximize your budget.

91% - Access to more than 91% of all live sports.

30 Million - They gather data from nearly 30 million households, but you can precisely target the households that work for your campaign.

450+ - Access to the top 450+ streaming networks and publishers, including the Spectrum TV app, to put your brand on every screen.

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Welcome New Members!

Beef & Sea Dan St. Hilaire http://Beefandsea.com

Garcia Weight Loss Aesthetics & Hormone Replacement Therapy Vianey Nievesdiev www.garciaweightloss.com

Brandon TK Tech Services Tom Krzesinski Jr. http://tktechservices.com

Sun City Center VIPcare - Sun City Center Yaritza Salgado https://getvipcare.com/ourlocations/sun-city-center/

VIPcare - Brandon Dinara Anderson https://getvipcare.com/ourlocations/brandon

Valrico VIPcare - Valrico Dinara Anderson http://vipcare.com 10

Welcome New Members!

Musick Roofing Mary Bayes http://www.musickroofing.com

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Properties Group Seleka Kerr https://forever-agents.com

Howie’s Plumbing, Inc. April Kerbow www.suncitycenterplumbing.com

Guardian Haven Academy Nakisha Varlack www.guardianhaven.com

CC&N's Cleaning Services LLC Jacqueline Linjewile www.ccnscleaning.com

Tide Networks LLC Charles Wubbena www.tidenetworks.com 11

Welcome New Members!

Crosstown Advertising Network Araya Boonklung https://crosstownads.com

Ship Gulf Coast Jimmy Lynch www.shipgulfcoast.com

Future Leaders Empowerment Coaching, Inc. Carmen Henry www.futureleadersempowerment.com

Bayshore Funds Maggie Aldana (813) 771-8676

Primerica Monique Russell www.primerica.com/monique russell.com

Rockwell Group Foundation Kristina Hawkinson www.rockwellbuilders.com/ rockwell-group-foundation/ 12

Welcome New Members!

Combined Insurance Netasha Dodd http://physicalandfinancialwellness.com

Morsecom Andrew Graves www.morsecom.com

Quality Movers and Packers LLC Sophia Casusky https://qualitymoversandpackers.com/i ndex.html

Veracity Pharmacy Amy Alyeldin http://Www.veracitypharmacy.com

O2B Kids Cedarbrook Kim Colgrove http://www.o2bkids.com

Star Love Scrubs Tameka Copeland http://starlovescrubs.com 13

Welcome New Members!

Bubba's 33 Jennifer Nichols http://www.bubbas33.com

Cruise Planners - Matthew Gordon & Marji Beam http://www.ventureoutvacation.com

Ark Homes For Rent Tatiana Lopez www.arkhomesforrent.com/commu nities/oak-havenv

Absolute Aluminum Summer Cruz www.absolutealuminum.com

Sylvie Rachelle Etiquette Sylvie Rachelle Vaval www.officialsylvie.com 14

Welcome New Members!

If you are in your first year of membership, we invite you to attend the Year One Club! In this smaller group setting, you will forge new connections, learn new business development skills from featured speakers, practice networking skills, and have fun!

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Thank you Renewing Members!

34 Years Boyette Animal Hospital www.boyetteanimalhospital.com

15 Years Law Office of George Hunter, P.A. http://www.ghunterlaw.com

28 Years The Mosaic Company www.MosaicFloridaPhosphate.com

Meek Insurance Group, Inc. https://www.meekinsurance.com

25 Years Riverview United Methodist Church www.riverviewflumc.org R Processor, Inc. http://RichRohde.com 21 Years Chris’s Plumbing Service, Inc. www.chrissplumbing.com 19 Years L&M Insurance Group, Inc. https://landminsurancegroup.com/ 18 Years Southern Funeral Care & Cremation Services www.southernfuneralcare.com 15 Years All Family Law Group, P.A. https://www.FamilyMaritalLaw.com

Preservation 1st Financial Group http://www.preservation1st.com 14 Years Sun Towers Retirement Community http://suntowersretirement.com/ 13 Years Florida Society of Clinical Oncology, Inc. http://www.flasco.org FishHawk-Riverview Rotary Club2 www.FishhawkRiverviewrotary.org Riverview Friends of the Library http://hcplc.org 12 Years Freedom to Walk Foundation www.FreedomToWalkFoundation.org First Baptist Church of Riverview http://www.fbcriverview.org 16

Thank you Renewing Members!

11 Years ADS Building Contractors, LLC http://adsbuildingcontractors.com

9 Years The Grove at Southshore www.thegroveatsouthshore.com

Precision Overhead Garage Door http://Tampagaragedoorsfl.com

8 Years Jules Car Wash http://julescarwash.com/

American Water & Windows www.americanwaterusa.com/ 10 Years Krewe Of The South Shore Marauders https://www.kssmarauders.com/ TeleVoIPs http://www.televoips.com Kathy Wallin http://www.kandbtravel.com 9 Years Topgolf USA Brandon, LLC http://www.topgolf.com/tampa Sgt. Walter P. Ryan Detachment, Inc. http://mclriverview.org Rainbow Engraving http://rainbowengraving.com The Spurlino Family YMCA at Big Bend www.tampaymca.org/locations/spurlin o-family-ymca-big-bend-road

Secure Pro, LLC http://www.SecureProUSA.com The Bank of Tampa http://www.bankoftampa.com 7 Years Accurate Health Plans www.accuratehealthplans.com Dreama Blount's Insurance, Inc. www.dreamablountsinsurance.com Florida State Fair Authority http://www.floridastatefair.com 6 Years McCart & Tesmer, P.A. http://mccarttesmer.com SmileLYNN Pediatric Dentistry https://www.smilelynndental.com/

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Thank you Renewing Members!

6 Years Seeds of Hope, Inc. http://www.sohopefl.org

5 Years Kohn Law, PA http://www.kohnlawcares.com

RE/MAX Alliance Group www.remax.com/real-estateoffices/remax-alliance-groupriverview-fl/102023579

Judge Lyann Goudie, Circuit Court Group 13

5 Years Joe Rendon, CPA Goodwill Industries - Suncoast, Inc. http://www.goodwill-suncoast.org

4 Years Cold Stone Creamery - Riverview www.coldstonecreamery.com Brandon Crossroads Bowl, Inc. www.BrandonCrossroadsBowl.com

TamBay ADA Renovations http://waterdamagebrandon.com

3 Years March Marine Construction marchmarineconstruction.com

Advantage Restoration & Contracting http://www.advantage-rc.com

VIPcare - Riverview http://www.getvipcare.com

Fairfield Inn and Suites Riverview www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpafrfairfield-inn-and-suites-tampariverview/

Herzing University https://www.herzing.edu/tampa

Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa East/Casino tampaeastsuites.hamptoninn.com ServPro of Brandon/North Riverview servprobrandonnorthriverview.com

O2B Kids http://o2bkids.com 2 Years Grease Monkey http://www.greasemonkeyauto.com

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Thank you Renewing Members!

2 Years Focus Wealth Strategies http://www.focuswealthstrategies.com 1 Year Crowned By Tay Consulting LLC http://www.cbtayconsulting.com Dave Snell State Farm Agency http://www.isnellinsurance.com ServPro of NE Hillsborough County/Plant City http://www.servpro.com

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Upcoming Signature Events

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Upcoming Signature Events

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Upcoming Signature Events

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Largest Chamber Event of the Year!

safe trick-or-treating for the kids on our member

trick or treat trail!

Kids’ activity zone/costume contest pumpkin patch and hayrides live local entertainment food trucks and craft vendors produce market

Sponsorships Available sign up for the Trick-or Treat Trail Food Trucks and Vendors welcome!

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Upcoming Signature Events

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Upcoming Signature Events

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Upcoming Signature Events

Light Up Hillsborough Holiday Market

Dec. 6, 2024 Don’t miss Ce ntral Hillsborough ’s Premier Holiday Even t!

Lighted Holiday Market Local entertainment and performances Kids’ Zone with crafts and games Santa’s Workshop - Meet Santa!

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Put your business in front of the Central Hillsborough Community!!

Sponsorship Opportunities Vendor and Community Booth Space

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Upcoming Signature Events

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Upcoming Signature Events

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Chamber Connections Networking groups are open to entire membership and members may attend for free. Visitors may attend twice for free.

You may attend one or all at any time.

AFTER 5 will be held at rotating locations of CHCC restaurant members each month.

Held once per quarter. Watch the Week at a Glance for your next chance to participate!

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Chamber Connections Networking is about building relationships.

InnovateHer is about more than networking. It is a place for professional women to grow, support, motivate, and inspire each other while learning business and leadership skills. InnovateHer will meet monthly. Free for CHCC members to attend. Non-members may attend for $25.00 per meeting charge.

August 6, 12:00 PM

Register Join us for our weekly faith based networking group, INSPIRE. INSPIRE's mission is to foster a vibrant faith-based business community where professionals come together to inspire, support, and uplift each other. Through genuine relationships and shared values, we aim to nurture growth, encourage ethical practices, and collaborate on opportunities that enhance both business and spiritual development.

July 25, 3:00 PM Maple Street Biscuit Company 127 W. Bloomingdale Ave., Brandon

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Chamber Committees Co-Leaders: Joe Eletto, Century 21 Beggins Richard Rohde, R Processor, Inc.

The Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce (CHCC) Military Affairs Committee is dedicated to serving and supporting our military (past, present and families) in the community through advocating and educating the Chamber and community in how they can assist and participate in enriching the lives of our military community.

Are you, or a member of your organization, a military veteran? We want to recognize you! Please click here to submit your information. Each month a military veteran is recognized at the CHCC Monthly Luncheon. We also encourage you to participate in the Military Affairs Committee!

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Chamber Committees Military Recognition - Andrew Graves Andrew Graves served as a Gas Turbine Systems Technician Mechanic (GSM) aboard the U.S.S. Reuben James FFG 57 from 2004 to 2009, during his five years of active duty. Originally from Aurora, Colorado, he relocated to the Brandon area in the midst of the pandemic in 2020. After his military service, he pursued a career in plumbing, which he brought with him to Brandon.

Eventually, Andrew decided to change his career path and is now a security specialist for MORSECOM Communications. In his current role, he specializes in cameras, sensors, access control, monitoring, and event management.

With more than 26 years of experience designing technology and communications solutions from structured cabling and security, to voice, data, and video, to hosted cloud services and infrastructure systems – Morsecom is the certified expert at integration and implementation of best-in-class solutions for businesses of all sizes.

Andrew was recognized by the CHCC Military Affairs Committee at the Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon in May. 31

Chamber Committees Now meeting the 3rd Wednesday of each month at the Chamber Office 10:00 AM Committee Leader: Gabriel Mbulo, Edward Jones The Central Hillsborough County Economic Development Committee is a specialized group established with the primary goal of fostering economic growth, prosperity, and sustainability. The Committee collaborates to identify opportunities and address challenges related to economic development. Its responsibilities include conducting research and analysis to assess the local economic landscape, identifying key industries or sectors for growth, developing strategies to attract investment and business development, and advocating for policies that support economic vitality and the Chamber. The Committee also plays a pivotal role in implementing initiatives aimed at job creation, workforce development, infrastructure enhancement, and promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.

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Chamber Happenings Central Hillsborough County Chamber Holds Annual Legislative Wrap Up The Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce held its annual 2024 Legislative Wrap Up at The Regent, providing a comprehensive overview of the recent Florida Legislative Session.

The event, aimed at informing the business community about legislative developments, featured insights from key lawmakers and a discussion on the implications for local businesses.

Christopher Johnson, Senior Social Responsibility Specialist at The Mosaic Company, moderated the event. The esteemed panel included Representative Mike Beltran, Senator Darryl Rouson, and Hillsborough County Commissioner Mike Owen. These influential figures shared their experiences from the session, detailing which bills were passed, which were not, and the resulting impact on the business environment.

Attendees had the opportunity to submit questions to the lawmakers, gaining valuable knowledge about the legislative process and its direct effects on their businesses. The session emphasized the importance of staying informed and involved in legislative matters to navigate 33

Chamber Happenings the evolving business landscape effectively.

The Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce extends its gratitude to St. Joseph's Hospital - South for their generous sponsorship, making this event possible, and to their event partners, MJI Media; Fancy That Specialty Linens; The Regent; ABC Events; and Gerardo Luna Photography. The delicious lunch was catered by Tiki Docks.

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Chamber Happenings Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 30th Annual Golf Tournament The Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce celebrated with resounding success its 30th Annual Golf Tournament at the picturesque Club Renaissance Golf Club. This milestone event with a Red, White, & Blue theme, brought together over 100 enthusiastic golfers and featured a bustling Vendor Midway with 30 business members, making it a day to remember for all attendees.

The tournament, known for its friendly competition and community spirit, saw participants ranging from amateur golfers to seasoned pros. In addition to the golf tournament, the Vendor Midway was a highlight of the event, showcasing a diverse array of local businesses and services.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore and interact with vendors offering everything from delicious food and beverages to cutting-edge technology and unique services.

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Chamber Happenings Golf Tournament cont’d.

The excitement didn’t stop on the course or at the midway. Following the tournament, numerous prizes and raffles were given away. "The 30th Annual Golf Tournament has truly been a testament to the strength and unity of our community," stated CHCC staff member, Teri Perkins. "The incredible turnout, the enthusiastic participation, and the support from our vendors have made this event an unparalleled success. We are grateful to everyone who contributed to making this day memorable."

The Chamber extends its heartfelt thanks to all participants, sponsors, vendors, and volunteers who made this event possible. Special recognition goes to our event sponsors whose generosity and commitment to the community are deeply appreciated. Much gratitude also extended to Event Co-Chairs, Elena Westrop with Charity Clothing Pick Up, and Ron Akers with FruxPay.

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Chamber Happenings

Thank you sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and participants!

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Chamber Happenings CHCC May Monthly Luncheon The Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce hosted its monthly luncheon on May 28 at the Winthrop Barn Theatre, bringing together members and local business leaders for an afternoon of networking and community building. The monthly luncheons provide a vibrant platform for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and foster business relationships. It is an excellent opportunity for both new and longstanding members to engage with one another and explore potential collaborations.

This highly anticipated event was generously sponsored by Moffitt Cancer Center, with delectable cuisine provided by Coastal Catering. The Chamber proudly welcomed new members, enhancing the diverse and dynamic network of professionals. Renewing members were also recognized for their continued commitment and support, underscoring the strength and unity of the Chamber community. The monthly luncheons always conclude with exciting door prize giveaways, adding an element of fun and anticipation to the luncheon. Attendees leave with not only new connections and insights, but also many winning fantastic prizes.

The Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt thanks to Moffitt Cancer Center for their sponsorship and to Coastal Catering for the delicious food. Their support and contributions significantly enriched the event, making it a memorable experience for all. Also, much gratitude to the Chamber partners, MJI Media, Fancy That Specialty Linens, Gerardo Luna Photographs, and the Winthrop Barn Theatre.

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Chamber Happenings CHCC June Monthly Luncheon The June Monthly Luncheon was held on the 25th at the Winthrop Barn Theatre, and was generously sponsored by St. Joseph's Hospital South, with delicious cuisine provided by Care Package Meal Prep Company. The luncheon was a wonderful occasion for attendees to meet, share ideas, and forge new business relationships.

A special highlight of the event was the spotlight on St. Joseph's Hospital South's

"Christmas in July" initiative, a toy drive aimed at bringing joy to the young patients of the hospital. Members demonstrated remarkable generosity by donating toys in the drop boxes provided at the luncheon, showcasing their commitment to supporting local causes and spreading cheer. There was even a visit by Santa Claus himself!

Adding to the excitement, Charity Clothing Pickup was drawn from the business card pool for a special member spotlight. This recognition will grant them a speaking opportunity at the next luncheon, allowing them to share their mission and achievements with the Chamber community.

The Central Hillsborough County Chamber of Commerce expresses its deepest gratitude to St. Joseph's Hospital South for their sponsorship and to Care Package Meal Prep Company for the delightful food. Their contributions significantly enhanced the luncheon, making it a memorable and impactful event. Also, much gratitude to the Chamber partners, MJI Media, Fancy That Specialty Linens, Gerardo Luna Photographs, and the Winthrop Barn Theatre.

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Chamber Happenings

Member Spotlight

At Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC, the focus is on providing clients and their families with tailored solutions for retirement planning, income maximization, wealth transfer, and tax minimization. The team at Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC is dedicated to communicating recommendations and strategies in a clear and understandable manner. They believe that a skilled financial advisor can help clients fully comprehend the steps they are taking

during the financial planning process.

Continuous education and improvement are considered vital for both advisors and clients. Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC emphasizes educating clients on issues that may affect them during retirement and potentially jeopardize the legacy they wish to leave to their heirs. While advisors provide guidance, clients are encouraged to make their own informed decisions. An educated client is seen as the best client.

Acknowledging that they may not be able to assist everyone, the team at Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC strives to direct those they cannot help to other professionals who may be better suited to meet their needs.

A happy client is regarded as the best source for new business. In the competitive financial services industry, Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC has established a reputation for providing sound advice and exceptional service. The business grows through client referrals, with clients feeling confident in recommending the firm to friends and family, knowing that their best interests are always a priority.

Michael and Christian, partners and founders of Preservation 1st Financial Group, LLC, bring extensive experience in the financial services industry. Michael embarked on his career in 2001, focusing on helping individuals with their personal finances. He initially specialized in protection planning and obtained his life, health, and annuity license through the state of Florida. Michael’s expertise includes life insurance, Medicare, long-term care, and fixed and indexed annuities. Christian expanded the firm's offerings to include investment planning, enhancing the comprehensive services provided to clients. Together, Michael and Christian leverage their combined expertise to guide clients toward their financial goals.

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In the Know Florida Chamber of Commerce Florida Scorecard From the Florida Chamber of Commerce website, The Florida Scorecard™ is a dynamic online tool that identifies and tracks key metrics that are important to Florida’s economy today and into the future. The Florida Scorecard gives stakeholders the power to measure progress on a statewide level and within their own communities. Check back often as this information is updated regularly. Click image below to visit the FCC Scorecard.

Hillsborough County Economic Development Report This information is collected and published to assist the business community with data relevant to evaluate the dynamic economic ecosystem and workforce potential Hillsborough County has to offer. Contact the Economic Development Department’s Corporate Business Development/Business Intelligence team at (813) 272-5560 with any questions or to provide feedback on this report. Click Hillsborough County logo above to obtain reports.

Future Fair Hiring Event Apr. 17 and 18 The Regent

Workforce Development Workforce Solutions

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In the Know Why Is Networking Important?

In the fiercely competitive landscape of modern business, networking is essential for entrepreneurial success. It offers numerous opportunities to grow a business, forge valuable connections, enhance knowledge, and garner support. But how can entrepreneurs network effectively? What benefits does networking bring to their business growth?

Networking for entrepreneurs involves a purposeful and strategic effort to cultivate meaningful relationships, build trust, and create opportunities within the business community. Through effective networking, entrepreneurs can access essential resources, mentorship, and potential partnerships critical for the growth and success of their ventures. Networking provides a platform to exchange ideas, seek advice, and collaborate on projects, ultimately fostering innovation and driving business development.

Entrepreneurs can reap numerous benefits from networking, including: Access to valuable resources Advice from seasoned professionals Establishment of meaningful industry connections Effective networking also provides opportunities for entrepreneurs to: Exchange ideas Collaborate on projects Explore potential partnerships for business growth and success However, developing successful networking strategies necessitates: Careful planning Active participation A genuine willingness to contribute to the network

By prioritizing authenticity, mutual support, and a spirit of generosity, entrepreneurs can fully harness the potential of networking to advance their ventures.

Build your network!

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In the Know Networking with other small business owners is an invaluable strategy for those aiming to grow their enterprises.

A significant advantage of networking is the opportunity it provides to meet new customers and potential clients. Building strong relationships with other business professionals can expand your reach and open doors to new markets and opportunities.

Networking also offers the benefit of valuable insights and advice. By connecting with fellow business owners, you can learn from their experiences, gaining knowledge about best practices and effective strategies for business growth. This exchange of advice and resources can propel your business to the next level.

Moreover, networking helps build a supportive community of advocates for your business. Establishing relationships with other business owners creates a network of individuals who are invested in your success and eager to assist in your growth.

Networking contributed to the success of 78% of startups, according to one study from Zippia. So, a strong network of business professionals can dramatically boost the growth of a business. When you network with one person, you're potentially building relationships with that person's network too. If they know someone who can potentially be an investor or a customer for your business, you're likely to get an introduction or a referral as long as you made a great first impression.

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Education and Training The Nonprofit Leadership Roundtable is a great opportunity to network with other like minded leaders, with a monthly guest speaker who shares invaluable information on ways to improve and grow your organization.

The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Hillsborough County assists existing and emerging businesses in Hillsborough County, through no-cost confidential business consulting, information, and lowcost training. Appointments available at the GRCC office every Thursday between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

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Ribbon Cuttings

Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings August 9 - Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Star Love Scrubs August 14 - Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Amazing Lash Studio August 15 - Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Perspire Sauna Studio August 28 - Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Pepin Academies' 25th Anniversary

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Ribbon Cuttings

Super Sudz Laundry Center Tuesday, April 9

Bayview Graphix Tuesday, April 16

iSMASH of Tampa Tuesday, April 16

Daybreak Market and Fuel Saturday, April 20

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Ribbon Cuttings

Fresh Coat Painters Thursday, April 25

ABC Event Planning Tuesday, May 14

PF Auto Glass/Riverview Woman’s Club

Beef & Sea Tuesday, June 4

Tuesday, May 28

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Ribbon Cuttings

O2BKids Cedarbrook Friday, June 7

Fifth Third Bank - Riverview Financial Center

Garcia Weight Loss Aesthetics & Hormone Replacement Therapy Thursday, June 20

VIPcare Sun City Center Wednesday, June 26

Tuesday, June 11

ACE Hardware Friday, June 28 48

July

Chamber Calendar 17 Economic Development Committee 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM 18 RISE Networking Group 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM 18 LEAD Graduation 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM 19 Year One Club 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM 19 Networking@Noon 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 25 RISE Networking Group 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM 25 INSPIRE Networking Group 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM 26 Networking@Noon 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

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Chamber Calendar

August

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RISE Networking Group 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM 1 INSPIRE Networking Group 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM 2 Ambassador Team Meeting 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM 2 Networking@Noon 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 2 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Sweet Water Grand - The Bridges 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM 6 InnovateHER 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 7 Teaching to Excellence 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM 8 RISE Networking Group 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM 8 INSPIRE Networking Group 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM 9 Networking@Noon 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 9 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Star Love Scrubs 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM 13 Member360 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM 13 After 5 - Business After Hours 5:30 PM - 7:30 AM 14 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Amazing Lash Studio 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 15 RISE Networking Group 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM

15 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Perspire Sauna Studio 15 INSPIRE Networking Group 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM 16 Java & Jeans 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM 16 RISE Networking Group 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM 21 Economic Development Committee 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM 22 RISE Networking Group 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM 22 INSPIRE Networking Group 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM 23 Networking@Noon 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM 27 Monthly Member Luncheon 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM 28 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Pepin Academies 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM 29 RISE Networking Group 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM 29 INSPIRE Networking Group 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM 30 Year One Club 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM 30 Networking@Noon 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

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Congratulations!

Business of the Year Business of the Year

Business of the Year

Michael Broussard

Chamber Champion

Congratulations 2023 Businesses of the Year and Individual Award Winners!

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