C NNECTION ADVANCING COMMERCE
THE BOCA CHAMBER'S QUARTERLY MAGAZINE JANUARY TO MARCH 2020
SERVING BOCA RATON TO BOYNTON
CONNECTION MAGAZINE Publisher: Troy M. McLellan, CCE, FCCP Editor: Mariana Griswold BOCA CHAMBER OFFICERS
TABLE OF CONTENTS From Your President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Michael Daszkal, Daszkal Bolton LLP Chair Jackie Reeves, Bell Rock Capital Chair-Elect John Tolbert, Boca Raton Resort and Club Vice-Chair Todd Hale, Office Depot, Inc. Treasurer Troy M. McLellan, Boca Chamber Secretary Susan J. Saturday, Bluegreen Vacations Corporation Immediate Past Chair
By The Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
DIRECTORS
Golden Bell Battle of the Bands . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Paul Adkins, Florida Peninsula Michael Antonello, Lynn University Jason Aube, BB&T (Branch Banking & Trust) Clara Bennett, Boca Raton Airport Authority Chris Chase, SunTrust Bank Ian Cotner, AT&T Steven Deutsch, Frank, Weinberg & Black P.L. Andrew Duffell, Research Park at FAU Sophia Eccleston, Florida Power & Light Amanda Ellis, Oceans 234 Kevin Fernander, Palm Beach State College Will Fleming, MotionPoint Corporation Todd Hale, Office Depot, Inc. David Hammer, Newell Brands Larry Katz, Wells Fargo John W. Kelly, Ph.D., Florida Atlantic University Ahnich Khalid, Maggiano's Little Italy Ken Lebersfeld, Capitol Lighting Matthew Linderman, Boca West Country Club Michael Marshall, Gunster Lincoln Mendez, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Mark Mileusnic, NCCI Michael Myers, Cancer Treatment Centers of America Patty Nobles, Comerica Bank Sal SaldaĂąa, Town Center at Boca Raton Brook Thomas, West Boca Medical Center Bob Tucker, ADT Corporation Frank White, Kaufman Lynn Construction
Meet the New Faces of Healthcare . . . . . . . . . 5 Leadership Boca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 The Boca Chamber App . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Community Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Your Scene, You're Seen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 Member Anniversaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 New Member Orientation/Referring Partners 15 YEA! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Ribbon Cuttings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-20 Meet Our New Board Members . . . . . . . . . . . 21 New Member Listings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22-23 Member Buzz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Our Mission To promote and sustain economic prosperity in Boca Raton and South Palm Beach County
onnecting Members
dvancing Commerce
PROFESSIONAL TEAM
Troy M. McLellan CCE, FCCP- President & CEO Sarah E. Pearson IOM- Executive Vice President Firdaus Dotiwala- VP, Finance & Administration Chasity J. Navarro- Events Manager Sophia Lopez- Events Administrator Alison Miuccio- Membership Development Manager Jenifer Marquart- Membership Development Associate Mariana Griswold- Marketing & Communications Sherese James-Grow- Foundation Manager, Golden Bell & YEA! Beatriz Serpa- Member Services & Administrative Associate Jonathan Porges- Boynton Beach Market Manager Jennifer Higginbotham- Executive Assistant to the President & CEO Troy McLellan 2 | Connection Magazine
rotecting Business
nhancing the Community
FROM YOUR PRESIDENT
Advancing in 2020 Looking back at a year of exciting progress, The Boca Chamber is committed to continued advancement in 2020. As we enter the new year, we are more inspired than ever to deliver on our mission, to Promote and Sustain Economic Prosperity in Boca Raton and South Palm Beach County, with new resources, new leadership, and new ideas. Technology has become an important part of doing business. In an effort to bring our members businesses together, we are proud to unveil The Boca Chamber App. We are certain that this mobile application will help create better, faster, and stronger communication with The Chamber and fellow members. In the ever-changing world of technology, it is crucial to be current with the latest advancements. This new application will create more connections and will give you access to 'The Chamber World' at your fingertips. For more information about our new mobile app, please turn to page 8. President & CEO Troy McLellan
After a year of extraordinary leadership by Chair Susan J. Saturday, we welcomed Michael Daszkal as our new "As we enter the new year, we are more inspired Chairman of The Boca Chamber Board of Directors on than ever to deliver on our mission, to Promote and November 1. With Michael at the helm, our future is in Sustain Economic Prosperity in Boca Raton and good hands. Our newest Executive Committee members South Palm Beach County, with new resources, also include John Tolbert, of the Boca Raton Resort and new leadership, and new ideas". Club as Vice Chair and Todd Hale of Office Depot, Inc. as Treasurer. Our Board represents the best and brightest in our community. To learn more about our newest Board members, please refer to page 19. Looking ahead, you won’t want to miss a few of our exciting events. On February 21, we will recognize Clara Bennett of The Boca Raton Airport Authority as the 2020 award recipient at the Annual Diamond Award Luncheon. On Saturday, March 7, mark your calendars for our annual community cookout at the YMCA. Bring your kids and spend the day playing games, having fun, and enjoying grilled food prepared by the Chamber’s and YMCA Board of Directors. We strive to support businesses through programs and opportunities that connect members and advance commerce by engaging our community to participate in local events such as Boca Bacchanal and the Festival of the Arts Boca. These events provide a positive economic impact to our business community as they bring customers to your restaurants, visitors to your hotels, and shoppers to your stores. You can learn more about these exciting upcoming events on page 10. From Connecting Members, to Advancing Commerce, to Protecting Business and Enhancing the Community, the Boca Chamber is your strongest business advocate. We are working for you so that we can advance commerce together. Along with our leadership, Chairman of the Board, Michel Daszkal, we’re excited for this new year ahead, and look forward to growing business in the community where we live, work, learn and play.
Moving Forward,
Troy M. McLellan, CCE, FCCP President & CEO
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Boynton Beach Since The Boca Chamber and Boynton Beach merger, we have increased membership in the Boynton and Lake Worth market. We have increased attendance at Coffee Plus, The Women’s Business Council, and Lunch & Learn by over 50%. We are looking forward to another year of success in 2020!
300 Chamber Events We hosted 300+ events & celebrated 48 ribbon cuttings.
2019 by the Numbers 130,000 Employees We are proud to serve 1,700 members, totaling 130,000 employees.
We would like to share some impressive numbers with you from 2019! The Boca Chamber is excited about the progress that has been made in the last 12 months . We invite you to join us as we keep our focus on the interests of our community and our mission: To Promote and Sustain Economic Prosperity in Boca Raton and South Palm Beach County.
398 Businesses as New Members In 2019, we welcomed 398 businesses as new members to the Boca Chamber.
Golden Bell Battle of the Bands In 2019, we launched our Season 2 Golden Bell Battle of the Bands Fundriaser raising $100k for our Education Foundation.
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$98K Awarded to Public Schools Our Golden Bell Education Foundation awarded a recordsetting amount of almost $98k to 26 Boca Raton Public Schools.
31 Restaurants In it’s third year, our tourism committee succeeded in Boca Restaurant Month.
MEET THE NEW FACES OF HEALTHCARE
INTRODUCING THE NEW FACES OF H E A L T H C A R E CEO of Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West in Palm Beach County
NELSON LAZO
Nelson Lazo is the chief executive officer of Doctors Hospital in Coral Gables and Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute, both part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest not-for-profit, faith-based healthcare organization in the region. Doctors Hospital has been providing high-quality care for the community since its inception in 1949. As CEO, Mr. Lazo is responsible for overall administrative and operational management of the 281bed, acute-care hospital and its more than 900 employees and the Institute — a Baptist Health Center of Excellence that provides world-class orthopedics and sports medicine care at eight locations. Mr. Lazo was named to his current position in January 2010 after serving as CEO of Baptist Health’s Mariners Hospital in Tavernier for three years. In 2015, Barry University honored Mr. Lazo with a Distinguished Alumni Award for his achievements, contributions to the community and support of the university. He is a member of the Orange Bowl Committee as well as the American College of Healthcare Executives.
CEO of West Boca Medical Center
GEORGE RIZZUTO
West Boca Medical Center appoints George Rizzuto as its new chief executive officer. In
this role, Rizzuto will be responsible for overseeing all strategic, operational and clinical activities at the hospital. Rizzuto has more than 35 years of hospital leadership experience as a healthcare executive with extensive experience in hospital operations and finance, as well as public accounting. Rizzuto also served as vice president of operations at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, where he improved the hospital’s financial performance, patient flow and patient satisfaction. Prior to this, George served in leadership roles at Central Montgomery Medical Center, Warminster Hospital and Abington Memorial Hospital. Rizzuto returns to Tenet from a former sister facility, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children in Philadelphia, PA, where he served as the CEO, and prior to that, chief financial officer of the hospital.
CEO of Boca Raton Regional Hospital
LINCOLN MENDEZ
Lincoln S. Mendez is the CEO of Boca Raton Regional Hospital. Mr. Mendez has been in this position since July 2019. Prior to his current role, Mr. Mendez served as CEO of South Miami Hospital for over nine years. Before that, Mr. Mendez held the position of CEO at Doctors Hospital for a total of 14 years. During this period, he was the CEO of HealthSouth Doctors’ Hospital, Inc. for the eight years prior to Baptist Health South Florida’s acquisition of Doctors Hospital in October 2003. Prior to his employment with HealthSouth Doctors’ Hospital, Inc., Mr. Mendez was the Chief Operating Officer at Kendall Regional Medical Center in Miami, Florida, from 1993 to 1995. Mr. Mendez holds a Master’s degree in Health Administration from Florida International University and both a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Southern Adventist University, Collegedale, Tennessee. Connection Magazine | 5
LEADERSHIP BOCA 2020
A NEW YEAR OF LEADERSHIP
The 2020 Leadership Boca Class has been announced. Sessions will begin on February 6, 2020 with 10 themed day trips to follow. 2019 Highlights Below.
The class of 2019 visited several of Boca's headquarters, including Office Depot,Inc. (pictured above).
Other sessions include Economic Development, Health, Human Services, Education, and Environmental Awareness.
Cultural day participants of the program learned about hidden cultural gems that are available in our Boca Raton community, such as the Wick Theatre (pictured above). 6| Connection Magazine
ANNOUNCING THE 2020 CLASS Bridget Adlen, Hyatt Place Boca Raton/Downtown Andi Allen, Legacy Bank of Florida Elisa Audiffred, Lynn University Muareen Avella, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Jessica Beaver, FAU Tech Runway Rachael Bonlarron, Palm Beach State College Michael Caro, PNC Bank Lili Cock, TD Bank Jessica Desir, Boca Raton Police Services Department Bob DiRocco, Habilitation Center for the Handicapped Heather Dupree, Boca Grove Golf & Tennis Club Wendy Elliott, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Lina Gonzalez, TD Bank Tim Grajko, Morgan Stanley - Boca Raton Group Terry Gray, Schoeppl Law, P.A. Jennifer Halikman, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Lindy Harvey, Spirit of Giving Network Gina Harwood, The Keyes Company Bryan Hunt, Peter Blum YMCA Anne Jaakkola, Boca Helping Hands, Inc. Jonelle John, Bluegreen Vacations Andrene July-Johnson, NCCI Michael Kalvort, City of Boca Raton Kendra Kent, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Kimberly McCarten, The Arc of Palm Beach County Ryan Minton, Renaissance Boca Hotel Femke Perez de Groot, Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center Ginny Prystawski, Wells Fargo Kacee Reid, Memorial Healthcare System Alyse Reiser Comiter, Gunster, Yoakley & Stwart, P.A. Irina Rothenberg, OZO2 Eco Dry Cleaning Christopher Sajdera, Sajdera Kim, PLLC Shakira Sarquis-Kolber, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Dave Schapiro, Lynn University Tiina Smith, NCCI Danielle Trepeck, Office Depot, Inc. William Urbanek, Boca Raton Airport Authority Fedra Vimercati, Comerica Bank Ross Wilde, The Rudman Law Group Stefan Wolff, HITT Contracting, Inc
Connection Magazine |7
IT'S A NEW DECADE
The Boca Chamber at Your Fingertips Enjoy essential Chamber information and connection all in the palm of your hand. By downloading the app, you will have access to many features and services.
• Get Ready, Get Social All social media feeds will be easily accessible through The Chamber App. Members will be able to login and see what's happening in The Chamber World. • Tune Into the News Check up on member to member news in real time, and get easier access to community events and news stories. • Convenient Directory Looking for connections? Look no further, The Boca Chamber App is filled with helpful resources to help your business succeed. • Event Registration All Chamber events will be available to view and register for right in the palm of your hands.
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
Boca Bacchanal--presented by the Boca Raton Historical Society & Museum--is just around the corner! South Florida's premier food and wine event will feature delectable dishes from award-winning chefs; superb wines from all over the world; & a host of enticing interactive experiences in truly luxurious settings. Bacchus Beckons hosted by Bloomingdale's. Tuesday, January 21, 2020, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., at Bloomingdale's at Town Center. $75. Kick-off event. Announcement of chef, vintner, & host pairings for the Vintner Dinners. Distinctive BB wines & tasty appetizers. Bubbles & Burgers sponsored by ALINA Residences. Thursday, February 20, 2020, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., at the Boca Beach Club. $100. Meet the featured BB chefs. Gourmet sliders, wine & Champagne, overlooking the ocean.
Festival Boca presents A Season of Heroes in 2020, including everything from acrobats to jedis, from string virtuosos to literary leaders. It is a 10-day extravaganza of entertainment and engagement you don’t want to miss. Featured performers include Troupe Vertigo (circus ac robats), Eroica Trio, “classical guitar-hero” Miloš, a Moth StorySLAM, Luke Skywalker and his full Star Wars entourage, Postmodern Jukebox, Nu Deco Ensemble, and of course The Symphonia. This year also features an all-female Authors & Ideas series: novelist Jesmyn Ward, cartoonist Roz Chast, psychologist Laurie Santos, and political analyst Amy Walter. For full schedule and information, visit festivalboca.org.
Vintner Dinners. Friday, March 6, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., at elegant private homes & historic venues in Boca Raton. $350. Sumptuous five-course meals, prepared by world-class chefs, working in tandem with acclaimed vintners. The ultimate dinner party experience. The Grand Tasting. Saturday, March 7, 2020, from 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., in the Great Hall at the Boca Raton Resort & Club. $125. Signature finale event. Dinner-by-the-bite from over 25 noteworthy local restaurants. Over 130 outstanding wines & Champagnes. Silent auction. Luxury vendors. Pop-up art gallery--and a painting demonstration--with Thomas Arvid. To purchase tickets, please visit www.bocabacchanal.com or call 561.395.6766, Ext. 101. Proceeds benefit BRHS&M.
We can help you get there from here. At Synovus, we combine valuable local insight with the financial strength and depth of services to meet almost any business need, large or small. Here is where we have the understanding to share your vision and the resources to help you get there. Let’s talk today. 1-888-SYNOVUS | synovus.com
Synovus Bank, Member FDIC.
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lynn.edu
If you believe you can go anywhere …
Go further in your life, your career and your community with a graduate degree from Lynn. Power network with Career and Alumni Connections. Gain priority access to professional organizations and learn from community leaders and experts in your field. Schedule a visit and get started on your future today. lynn.edu/visit Please notify us at least five days in advance if a reasonable accommodation for a disability is needed by calling +1 561-237-7580 (EEO/Access/AA Institution). Lynn University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, age, pregnancy or parenting status, veteran status or retirement status in its activities and programs. In accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Lynn University does not discriminate on the basis of sex. Inquiries concerning the application of the non-discrimination policy may be directed to the University Compliance Officer/Title IX Coordinator at 3601 N. Military Trail, Boca Raton, FL 33431; via email at titleixcoordinator@lynn.edu; by phone at +1 561-237-7727 or to the U.S. Dept. of Education OCR. Lynn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, master’s and doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call +1 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Lynn University. © 2019 Lynn University
Connection Magazine |11
YOUR SCENE, YOU’RE SEEN HOLIDAY BREAKFAST [1.]
[4.]
[2.]
[3.]
[5.]
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[1] Ryan Alper, Troy McLellan, Rosie Inguanzo-Martin, Kurt Pottkotter, Doug Mosley, Timothy Snow [2] Peter Gary, Commissioner Robert Weinroth [3] Troy McLellan, Michael Daszkal, Timothy Snow [4] The West Boca High School Encore Ensemble [5] Jackie Reeves, Al Travasos [6] Michael Daszkal, Councilwoman Andrea Levine O'Rourke
SUCCESSFUL WOMEN IN BUSINESS [1.]
[2.]
[1] Joni Jones, Holly Carson [2] Sarah Pearson, Dr. Marla Dudak [3] Danielle Rosse, Jennifer Thomason 12| Connection Magazine
PULSE Professionals Under 40 [1]
[3.]
[2.]
[3.]
[1] Kathryn Young, Amanda Ellis, Mohamed Abdalla [2] Rigo Beltran, Dr. David Doriscar [3] Pradiptee Lama, Erick Solms
YOUR SCENE, YOU’RE SEEN HOLIDAY AUCTION [2.]
[1.]
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[5.]
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[1] Chris Torelli, Troy McLellan, Laura Malone Millward [2] M.J. 'Mike' Arts, Patty Nobles [3] Mayor Scott Singer, John Tolbert [4] Reba Larney, Deby Goldfarb, Nada Vergili, Scott Lappin, Laureen Pannullo [5] Troy McLellan, Michael Daszkal [6] Judy Farmer, Alison Miuccio, Susan Bronstein
AFTER HOURS NETWORK [1.]
[2.]
TRUSTEE HOLIDAY PARTY [1.]
[3.]
[1] John McClaskie, Patricia O'Meara [2] Deby Goldfarb, Mark Toor [3] Joan Greenberg, Angela Campbell
[2.]
[3.]
[1] Ken Lebersfeld, Keith O'Donnell, Pam Weinroth, Commissioner Robert Weinroth [2] Audra Durham, Claude Dubois [3] Ami Zak, Arnie Zak Connection Magazine |13
MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES
CELEBRATE
Congratulations
Ross Realty & Appraisal , Inc. for 54 Years!
Our Member Anniversaries
Thank You For Your Commitment! 54 Years As A Member Ross Realty & Appraisal, Inc.
20 Years As A Member Jewels In Time
38 Years As A Member Inn at Boynton Beach J. Heffernan Corp. Mario Ferazzoli & Son, Inc. Osborne & Osborne, P.A
19 Years As A Member Boynton Beach Community High School National Multiple Sclerosis Society 9 Years As A Member Schnabel Learning Amicus Medical Center Barbara Beznos RD, LD/N 18 Years As A Member Integrated Nutrition, LLC PLC International Association of Barrington Terrace Firefighters Local 1891 BocaFertility Schoolhouse Children's Museum Deck 84 Stratford Court Defender Resorts dba Ventura at Boca Trustbridge Hospice Foundation First Citizens Bank Illustrated Properties - Sally Ott 17 Years As A Member Incapital Keller Williams Realty Boca Raton Nat King Cole Generation Hope, Inc. Ruth & Norman Rales Spanish River Community High School Jewish Family Services The Wine Cellar at Boynton Beach Sklar Furnishings Ulysse Nardin, Inc. US Foods 16 Years As A Member Unique Gifts & Premiums 8 Years As A Member Alman & Katz, DMD, PA 15 Years As A Member Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County Boynton Beach Marble & Granite, Inc. Crown Castle Fiber The Ostroff Group, Inc. Intranet Communications Group, Inc. Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital 14 Years As A Member Memorial Healthcare System Grand Floridian Estate Realty Omar Periu International Prime Catch Susan J. Brotman, PA Unity School 7 Years As A Member 13 Years As A Member Addison Mizner Elementary School Comcast Spotlight Advent School Rapoport's Restaurant Group Arthur Norek Roses Realty Services, Inc. Flashback Diner Valerie Kolbert APRN, PA Kings Pharmacy Victory Accounting Service, Inc. Lang Realty Lavalle Brown & Ronan PA 12 Years As A Member LTD Environmental Management Astro Air Inc. Mario's Osteria EY Menorah House Hampton Inn & Suites Boynton Beach Mulhall Family Matters, P.A. JPMorgan Chase Sandpiper Shores Elementary School Porges, Eisenberg & Levine, CPA, LLC Singer Law Office, P.A. The Gordon Agency South Florida Fair The Women's Circle 11 Years As A Member Tijuana Flats Bell Rock Capital, LLC United Capital Carlos Aristizábal Keratin Complex 6 Years As A Member Tag-Team Movers Allegro Washington Real Estate Partners Croskey Lanni, PC Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort Dunay, Miskel and Backman, LLP Farmer's Table 11 Years As A Member Gloria Wank, GRI/Realty Associates Bell Rock Capital, LLC Murdoch Weires PLLC Carlos Aristizábal Oxbridge Academy Keratin Complex Quest Workspaces Tag-Team Movers Sandler Training / Lewis Fogel Washington Real Estate Partners Seacoast Bank Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort The Realtors® of the Palm Beaches & Greater Fort Lauderdale
34 Years As A Member Boynton Beach Mall 33 Years As A Member Morgan Stanley / Michael Shapiro Palm Beach State College Personalized Air Conditioning Plastridge Insurance Agency, Inc. Proskauer Rose LLP Renaissance Boca Raton Hotel Royal Palm Place Saint Andrew's School Saint John Paul II Academy SunTrust Bank 32 Years As A Member CenterState Bank 30 Years As A Member Boca Raton Airport Authority Daszkal Bolton LLP Kaleel & Crozier, PLLC, Attorneys At Law Rotary Club of Boynton Beach-Lantana State Farm Insurance-Bill Hagan 29 Years As A Member Thomas Workman & Associates CPA's 28 Years As A Member Boca Raton Community High School 26 Years As A Member Palm Beach County Sports Commission 24 Years As A Member Rosalita's Tex-Mex Grill Stanley Steemer of South Fla, Inc. 23 Years As A Member Boca By Design Grandview Preparatory School NAI Merin Hunter Codman Twin Palms Center for the Disabled 22 Years As A Member Simon & Sigalos, LLP 21 Years As A Member Anthony J. Reitano, CPA, LLC Colonial Veterinary Services, Inc. Hinman, Howard & Kattell, LLP ISG Graphics
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10 Years As A Member Chris Evert Charities Family Rentals and Guest Services Plum Productions Video
6 Years As A Member (cont'd) The Symphonia Boca Raton The Veranda Club 5 Years As A Member Boca Palms Animal Hospital Centennial Bank DermPartners Dyess Insurance Services Green, Ackerman & Matzner, P.A. Hampton Inn Boca Raton Losomo Inc. Madison's New York Grill & Bar Mandel Jewish Community Center of the Palm Beaches Nolan Construction Company Northwestern Mutual: The Striano Financial Group Peter M. Feaman, PA Sun Dek Beach House Transmedia Group The Boca Raton Florist The Rudman Law Group Tijuana Flats Tex-Mex VITAS Healthcare
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
WELCOME New Members
To the Chamber Family OCTOBER
THANK YOU TO OUR REFERRING PARTNERS! The Boca Chamber members listed below referred one of their contacts to join, and they did! Sue Wandersman, Siegel Law Group, P.A. Matt Blank, Signarama Tracie Taylor, ServPro
NOVEMBER
Canan Ozaktay, Epic Solutions Realty Frank Feiler, VR Business Brokers Marti Soroka, Third Level
THE REWARDS DECEMBER
Refer a member? Get Rewarded! You will receive: •One FREE ticket to a membership breakfast
N E W M E M B E R O R I E N TAT I O N I S S P O N S O R E D BY:
•One FREE spotlight ad in a Business Beat email blast •One highlight in Connection Magazine as a referring partner Connection Magazine |15
YEA!
2019-2020 YEA! Class
Entrepreneurs
2019-2020 Young Entrepreneurs Academy
Hooray! The 2019-2020 Class of Boca Raton’s Young Entrepreneurs Academy is in motion! Thank you to the Mentors who are helping these students along the way. Boca’s ninth year of the Young Entrepreneurs academy (YEA!) is an exciting program that transforms local middle and high school students into entrepreneurs. YEA!’s direct mission is to help students embrace their passion, energy, creativity and talents to launch a venture and view entrepreneurship as synonymous with success and freedom. Through the nine-month long curriculum, students work in close cooperation with local leaders of industry, community members, and educators to develop life skills, generate business ideas, conduct market research, and write business plans. The program culminates with a shark tank style event in April as students pitch their ideas to a panel of investors for funds to support their business venture.
2019-2020 Mentors
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS! Aprogram of the Golden Bell Education Foundation
Aprogram of the Golden Bell Education Foundation
PLATINUM PREMIER CORPORATE SUPPORTING
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Amelie Bertran de Balanda Harlan Burnstad Kasandra Diaz Ethan Faust Cole Fendelman Christian Frenette Imaara Koreth Joah Levine Joshua Maizes Frederik Malmstrom Ben Rosenthal Sarang Shravan Maya Stagman Levi Stein Val Sylvain Jasminsoye Thomas Justinsoye Thomas Jacob Wise
Lionel Aluka Patricia Burdett Alan Caine Ed Gagliardi Jonathan Grow Ali Kaufman Denise Leckey Darius McDougle Ross O’Connor Martine Pierre-Paul Don Schneider Michael Solomon Lina Sosa
GOLDEN BELL BATTLE OF THE BANDS SEASON
2
golden bell
battle of the
TOP FUNDRAISER
bands
JOHN TOLBERT
ROCK LOBSTERS
GAME OF TONES
BATTLE OF THE BANDS WINNER
MECHANICAL SOLIDARITY
THE STILETTOS
FEDERAL HIGHWAY
Season 2 of The Golden Bell Battle of the Bands was all the rage this year. Guests enjoyed a concert consisting of South Palm Beach County’s business professionals. Band Members traded in their business suits for musical instruments and microphones to battle it out on stage in front of 800 screaming attendees! Battle of the Bands was graciously hosted by Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRIC), which Crocker Partners acquired in 2018 with the goal of opening the former IBM campus to the community. The five competing amateur bands were Federal Highway, Game of Tones, Mechanical Solidarity, Rock Lobsters, and The Stilettos! The night began with performances by The School of Rock’s Student Band and The School of Rock’s Instructors. The battle kicked off with the winning band from last year’s Battle of the Bands, 180 Proof. The night closed with performances by professional bands, Del Pelson and the Solar Reef Band. The competing amateur bands worked hard all summer long to put on a memorable and entertaining performance. We are all so proud of their performances and the astounding amount of support we received from the community. In fact, Season 2 of Golden Bell Battle of the Bands sold out, and we raised a record-breaking amount of $100,000 to help support The Golden Bell Education Foundation, which is what this concert is all about! The first award was given to the individual who raised the most funds to help support the Golden Bell Foundation. The individual who won Top Fundraiser was John Tolbert, President and Managing Director of the Boca Raton Resort and Club and the Lead Guitarist of the Rock Lobsters. John Tolbert raised over $50,000! As the competition came to a close, it was time to pick the winning band. Judges deliberated over the difficult decision, as each band had demonstrated much showmanship and talent. The winner of Season 2 of Golden Bell Battle of the Bands was Mechanical Solidarity. The crowd went wild as their hard work and dedication paid off. The Golden Bell Foundation and its Board of Directors, chaired by Chuck Stout of CBIZ is grateful to all sponsors who helped make this possible, and of course the audience who helped support the bands and the Golden Bell Education Foundation! About Golden Bell: The Golden Bell Education Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit corporation that was created by the Chamber's Board of Directors as a separate operating entity, for the sole purpose of supporting the Boca Raton Public School System and administrating educational programs that promote business skills and workforce readiness. The Golden Bell Foundation’s mission is to support the Boca Raton public school system by administering funds and educational programs that promote business skills for students. Golden Bell Strives to help our local public schools fill in the gaps of key learning tools and resources not funded from traditional means. Connection Magazine |17
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Have Something to Celebrate? We will bring the giant scissors and get the word out! Contact our Membership Development Team at (561) 561 - 4433 Ext. 236
Johnson, Ritchey & Feldman, P.A. 2424 N Federal Highway Ste 166 Boca Raton
Xera Luxe 851 Broken Sound Parkway Ste 125 Boca Raton
Epic Solutions Realty 370 W Camino Gardens Blvd Boca Raton
Town Center at Boca Raton Play Area 6000 Glades Road Boca Raton
Local Management 200 Lindell Blvd Delray Beach
International Center for Advanced Dentistry 2900 N Military Trail Ste 175 Boca Raton
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RIBBON CUTTINGS
SPENGA Boca Raton 5030 Champion Blvd Boca Raton
Titleserv 1014 Gateway Boulevard Ste 105 Boynton Beach
Vylla Home 725 E Palmetto Park Road Boca Raton
Boca Raton Fit Body Boot Camp 555 N Federal Highway Boca Raton
American Association of Caregiving Youth 6401 Congress Avenue Ste 200 Boca Raton
Arthe Beauty Clinic 717 East Palmetto Park Road Boca Raton
Diamond Head Marketing
Aloft Delray Beach 202 SE 5th Avenue Delray Beach Connection Magazine |19
RIBBON CUTTINGS
Awards and More by Academy 141 NW 20th Street Suite D-3 Boca Raton
Support for Students Growth Center 5458 Town Center Road, Suite 8 Boca Raton
Sammy J's Kitchen and Cocktails 3320 Airport Road #1 Boca Raton
Vi at Lakeside Village 2792 Donnelly Drive Lantana
CHAMBER CONNECTION Exclusive discounts for Boca Raton chamber members! With this comprehensive program, you’ll receive: • Up to 55% off the officedepot.com regular price on a 350 item office supply core list • Aggressive pricing on top Technology items • Special pricing on Copy and Print Services • Fast and Free delivery on qualifying orders of $50 or more. Within our local delivery areas See below for details. And use the National Chamber’s Text To Save program to get your digital Store Purchasing Card. Simply text “BocaSPC” to 555-888 and present the Store Purchasing Card image at checkout at any of our retail stores. BSD111.16
Visit www.nationalchamberprogram.com/signup to enroll and start saving today! Fast and Free delivery. Minimum purchase required after discounts and before taxes. Orders outside our local delivery area and most furniture, oversized and special order items do not qualify. Non-qualifying orders incur a delivery charge (minimum charge of $7.95). Many orders can be delivered next business day (between 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM) if placed online or via phone by 5:00 PM or via fax by 3:00 PM, local time (In most locations). Other restrictions apply. See business.officedepot.com, call 888.2.OFFICE or ask your Account Manager for details. Office Depot is a trademark of The Office Club, Inc. ©2016 Office Depot, Inc. All rights reserved.
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OUR LEADERS Meet the Chamber's Newest Board Members
We are so proud to announce our newest board members for this fiscal year which began in November! As we welcome our new Chairman, Michael Daszkal of Daszkal
New to Executive Board Vice Chair John Tolbert Boca Raton Resort and Club
Bolton, LLP, we say a big thank you to our outgoing Chair, Susan Saturday, Chief Administrative Officer at Bluegreen Vacations Corporation. Lucky for us all, Susan turned over her gavel by positioning us for continued success; enabling us to continue the good work she began and furthering the growth of our Chamber. We want to warmly welcome four brand new members to our Board of Directors and 2 new members to our Executive
Treasurer Todd Hale Office Depot, Inc
New to Board of Directors
Committee. They began their tenure on November 1st and are part of a 31-member board representing the best and brightest in our community.
Paul Adkins Florida Penninsula
With their combined business knowledge and experience, they will add to the already strong Chamber Board by continuing our mission which is to promote and sustain economic prosperity in Boca Raton and South Palm Beach County. The commitment and dedication of our entire
Matthew Linderman Boca West Country Club
board makes Boca Raton the premiere city in which to do business – as well as the best place to live, work, learn and play. Please take a look at the new Board member photos to the right and give them a warm welcome when you see
Lincoln Mendez Boca Raton Regional Hospital
them at events! For our complete list of Chamber Board Members, please visit our website: www.bocachamber.com. "Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality." --Warren G. Bennis
Frank White Kaufman Lynn Construction
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NEW MEMBERS TRUSTEE MEMBERS Ellis Law Group, P.L. (561) 910-7500 www.ellis-law.com Seth Ellis Proworld Academy at Olympus International Academy (561) 306-1601 http://www.proworldacademy.com Antonio Torri
GENERAL MEMBERS 5i Solutions (954) 462-5400 http://www.5isolutionsinc.com/ Andrew Becker ADP Ft. Lauderdale Small Business Services (561) 656-5172 www.adp.com Megan McDaniel All Time Air Conditioning, LLC (561) 777-9888 www.alltimeairconditioning.com Jodi Ryan Alzheimer's Community Care (561) 683-2700 www.https://www.alzcare.org/ Lindsay Mulock ANT Logistics (561) 392-3770 www.antlogisticsboca.com Gulden Secilmis Apple Spice Box Lunch & Catering Co. (561) 623-0180 applespice.com/palmbeach Tom Silk Arthe Beauty Clinic & Academy (561) 931-2275 www.arthebeautyclinic.com Ana Feijo Bad Dog Enterprise (954) 360-9098 www.baddogenterprise.com Aaron Wilton Boca Beach House (561) 453-1400 www.bbhresidences.com Bonnie Heatzig Capital Group Realty of South Florida (561) 289-0323 www.teamusa.com Eddy Sua Community Greening Corp (561) 927-8733 www.communitygreening.org Matt Shipley
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(September-November 30, 2020) Datny Law Firm (561) 221-7474 www.datnylaw.com David Datny D'Best Sandwich Shop (561) 241-5155 www.dbestsandwichshop.com Susannah Amygdalitsis Dog Activity World Group, LLC (561) 340-3740 www.dogaw.com Hannah Wickins Douglas Elliman Real Estate (561) 866-8263 www.elliman.com Douglas Elliman/Randi Pilato E & M Culinary, Event & Creative (561) 756-9764 www.emcaters.com Andy Cohen Eagle Eye Home Inspections (954) 489-8113 www.eehomeinspections.com Oscar Martinez Elegant Occasions By Marie (631) 987-6765 www.elegantoccasionsbymarie.com Marie Leible Elite Med Spa (954) 456-4777 www.drhegedosh.com Natalia Hegedosh Empower Consulting Partners (888) 483-5457 www.empowerconsulting.com Andrea Garcia Epson Enterprise (407) 401-3946 Elijah Pearson Ethan Allen Retail, Inc. (561) 347-5067 www.ethanallen.com Catharine Gallagher Executive Planning 401(k) Specialists (561) 931-3630 www.ExecPlanning.com Jason Dynan Extraordinary Photography by Tina K VaLant (561) 945-6363 www.tinavalant.com Tina VaLant FASTSIGNS Of Boynton Beach (561) 877-1821 www.fastsigns.com/2233 Eric Martin Flax & Associates (305) 793-5299 www.flaxandassociates.com Samantha Flax
Flying Chimp Media (954) 634-2446 www.flyingchimp.com Jonathan Garber Galuppi's 620 Subs N Salads (561) 620-7827 www.620subssaladads.com Alexis Florie Get Insurance Anywhere (561) 734-3884 www.getinsuranceanywhere.com Paul Cholak Golden Estate LLC (561) 332-6950 Jairo Espinoza Green Arrow Agency (561) 450-9288 www.greenarrowmm.com Mike Piccoli Greentree Marketing Services (561) 901-3030 www.greentreemarketingservices.com GroovyTek (303) 317-2800 www.groovytek.com Greg Boman Hispanic Entrepreneur Initiative (561) 866-3322 www.heiflorida.org Mary Sol Gonzalez HITT Contracting, Inc. (954) 295-3934 www.hitt.com Stefan Wolff HotWorx Boynton Beach (561) 770-7330 www.hotworx.net Karissa O'Connell Innovative Technology Solutions (561) 465-7552 www.its3fla.com Aliya Budhwani Insight Marketing, Inc. (855) 930-0955 www.umbrelladebt.com Joe McCarthy James W McCauley MD PA (561) 392-0310 Bonnie Rath Jesse Davidson, P.A. (561) 600-0560 www.jessedavidsonlaw.business.site Jesse Davidson JK Closing Attorneys (954) 332-3111 www.jkclosings.com Charles Esposito, Esq.
NEW MEMBERS Just Salad (866) 673-3757 www.justsalad.com/florida Adam Shapiro
Nexx Health (305) 542-6490 www.nexxhealth.com Brianna Bowes
KB Branding Services (443) 858-5225 www.kbbrandingservices.com Diane Lavenstiein
North Broward Chiropractic & Wellness (954) 426-1100 www.northbrowardchiro.com Katie Andrade
KEKOA Poke Bowls + Hawaiian Foodie (561) 218-4523 www.eatkekoa.com David Obadia
Nozzle Nolen Pest Solutions (561) 964-6200 www.nozzelnolen.com Eric Gibson
Keyrenter Property Management (561) 331-6000 keyrentersouthflorida.com Daniel Schwab
ORW Workplace (561) 430-4140 www.orwworkplace.com Gary Napoli
KSB Group (561) 409-6154 Suha Boylu
(561) 477-3535 www.pbpdcares.com Saadia Mohammed
The Freedom Law Group (954) 590-8533 www.freedomlawfl.com Eric Weitkamp
Laine & Co Hair Studio (561) 208-2000 Michele Aronesty
Party Host Helpers - South Florida (844) 307-2789 www.partyhosthelper.com Shaina Wizov
U.S. Mortgage of Florida (561) 886-0300 www.usmtg.com Clifford Bernstein
Pristine Pros (561) 299-5555 www.pristinepros.com Michelle Mastronardo
URBAN Training and Services (954) 892-1755
Rooms To Go (561) 477-5313 www.roomstogo.com/stores/boca-raton/ boca-raton-store/407 Justin Norman
Vie Villas at Boca Raton (561) 237-2085 www.vievillasbr.com Louisa Shows
LPL Financial | Private Wealth (561) 702-6564 www.privatewealth.us James Franskousky Mary Kay Cosmetics-Adelaide Cordes (561) 445-7618 www.marykay.com Adelaide Cordes Mass Mutual (954) 689-9581 www.massmutual.com Phillip Kittell Massage Envy Boynton Beach (561) 374-7979 /locations.messageenvy.com/florida/boynton-beach/1000-n-congress-suite-140.html Kelly Perelli-Minetti Modern Etiquette and Leadership Academy (561) 351-0219 www.modernetiquetteandleadership.com Martine Pierre-Paul MTN Matchmaking (561) 334-6773 Stacie Lopinto Music and Art Academy Inc. (215) 370-5005 Steve Sherman My CPA, PA (954) 834-0414 www.yourmycpa.com Lyon Goultiex Nationwide Realty International, LLC (561) 901-4261 www.NRIBoca.com Lucille Gioia
Roots and Wings (301) 442-3463 www.rootsandwingsinc.org Ted Hoskinson Sajdera Kim, PLLC (561) 910-3082 www.sajderakimlaw.com Christopher Sajdera Sammy J's Kitchen + Cocktails (561) 338-5455 www.sjboca.com Samir Changela South Florida PBS (877) 272-7867 Sandra Baker Specific Chiropractic (561) 571-2468 www.specificchiropractor.com SpotOn (561) 425-9202 www.spoton.com Joseph Wagner Susan Tobia Art (774) 368-0949 www.susantobiaart.com Susan Tobia
The Burger Bunch, LLC d/b/a BurgerFi (561) 504-8325 Scott Hodes The Camp Experts & Teen Summers (561) 995-5633 www.summerfunexpert.com Lisa Borg The Cursive Letters Revolt!! Book (314) 650-2873 www.christyzwenger.com Christy Zwenger The Execu|Search Group (954) 556-2776 www.execu-search.com Samantha Wolf
Renata Urban
Vylla Homes (954) 715-8137 www.vylla.com Sherlock Fenderson Wall Street Personnel (561) 441-8015 www.wallstreetpersonnel.com Revi Goldwasser Waring Law, PLLC (561) 382-6860 www.waringinjury.com Matthew Waring Warner-Prokos Photography 561-271-7954 https://wpnewborns.com LuAnn Warner-Prokos Whit's Frozen Custard of Boca (561) 465-3428 www.whitscustard.com/fl-boca-raton Sara Weber Xera Luxe (561) 717-5210 www.xeraluxe.com Emily Rentz Z9 Capital LLC (561) 923-9554 Daphne Fernandes
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2020 DIAMOND AWARD RECIPIENT Clara E. Bennett Executive Director The Boca Raton Airport Authority
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2020 PEARL AWARD RECIPIENT Rhea Jain Founder and Owner, Renoosh 2019 YEA! Graduate
Member Buzz Clerk & Comptroller’s Office Wins 2019 Gold Stevie Award Clerk Sharon R. Bock, Esq. Recognized as Silver Stevie Award winner WEST PALM BEACH, FL (Dec. 12, 2019) – The Clerk & Comptroller, Palm Beach County was recognized as a Gold Stevie Award winner for Organization of the Year – Government or Non-Profit for agencies with more than 10 employees, at the 16th Annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. The Stevie Award for Women in Business recognizes outstanding women and organizations in the corporate, nonprofit and government sectors from around the world. Winners were announced during an awards ceremony on Nov. 15. “It is an incredible honor for our office to earn this international award, and to be recognized along with so many outstanding organizations,” Clerk Bock said. “This award is a testament to my team’s continued commitment to public service that improves the quality of life for everyone in our community. It is my privilege to lead such a dedicated group of professionals.” Shareholder Linda Conahan Receives 2019 Corporate Council Leadership Award WEST PALM BEACH, FL. (Nov. 21, 2019) – Gunster, one of Florida’s oldest and largest full-service business law firms, is pleased to announce shareholder Linda Conahan received the Corporate Council Leadership Award given by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance. The award was presented at the Alliance Annual Dinner. It recognizes an individual who has gone above and beyond in their work in the community helping to grow jobs and strengthen the economy. Conahan is a trailblazer in the legal industry, a pioneer for women in the courtroom and an engaged business leader for Broward County. Her commitment and leadership, both in the workplace and community, are unparalleled. Conahan has earned a variety of honors and recognitions over the course of her career. She was recognized as one of “100 Outstanding Women” of Broward County and she has the distinction of being an inaugural member of the Bar Register of AV Rated Preeminent Women Lawyers.
Spanish River Library to Host Demonstration for New Voting Equipment BOCA RATON, FL – (Nov.18, 2019) – In partnership with the City of Boca Raton, the Palm Beach County Supervisor of Elections (SOE) office hosted House at the Spanish River Library on November 20, 2019. Anticipating a historic turnout for county-wide elections in 2020, the SOE team was on-site to show participants how to use the new voting equipment, assisted voters with registration, and provided information about becoming a Poll Worker and the office’s new Adopt-A-Precinct and Vote in Honor of a Veteran Programs. The new voting equipment purchased includes 525 touch-screen machines that accommodate hearing and visual impairments, 10 high-speed tabulators that can help speed up recounts and 975 precinct scanners and tabulators for early and Election Day voting. Attendees will have the opportunity to practice using the new ballots and new machines by voting on fun contests. In addition, the Supervisor of Elections office is looking to hire at least 4,000 English and Spanish speaking Poll Workers to work a variety of paid positions during the 2020 elections.
Angel Moms Welcome Elizabeth Smart BOCA RATON, FL – (Dec. 4, 2019) – The trauma and horror of being a human kidnapping victim are difficult to relay, even to those who want to help. Only a person who has endured, survived and even triumphed, following such an ordeal, can truly understand. To help others grasp the enormity of what it is like to be a victim – and then a survivor – Elizabeth Smart will share her experience, as the keynote speaker at the 7th Annual Angel Moms Brunch and Benefit on Tuesday, March 31, 2020. The Brunch will be held at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2020, at Royal Palm Beach Yacht and Country Club, 2425 W Maya Palm Dr., Boca Raton, FL 33432. Early Bird tickets go on sale January 1, 2020, for $150 each, at www.placeofhoperinker.org/angelmomsbrunch Connection Magazine |25
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THE CALENDAR
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
07- International Business Alliance Round Table
04- International Business Alliance Round Table
08- Boynton Beach: Lunch & Learn
05- Boynton Chamber Ambassador Meeting
08- Boynton Chamber Ambassador Meeting
07- Prime Professionals Group Round Table
09- January Membership Breakfast
03- International Business Alliance Round Table 06- Prime Professionals Group Round Table 06- Boca Chamber Ambassador Meeting
07- Boca Chamber Ambassador Meeting
09- Government Affairs Committee Meeting 10- Prime Professionals Group Round Table 10- Boca Chamber Ambassador Meeting
11- New Member Orientation
07- Community Cookout
12- Boynton Beach: Lunch & Learn
10- New Member Orientation
13- February Membership Breakfast
14- South Palm Beach County Capital Days
11- Boynton Beach: Lunch & Learn
13- Government Affairs Committee Meeting
Tallahassee Fly-In
12- March Membership Breakfast
18- FREE Workshop
14- New Member Orientation
12- Government Affairs Committee Meeting
15- South Healthcare Advocacy Network
18- Economic Development Committee
16- Boynton Beach: Coffee Plus Network
18- PULSE Network
16- Successful Women in Business Luncheon
19- South Healthcare Advocacy Network
21- FREE Workshop
20- Successful Women in Business Luncheon
21- Economic Development Committee
21- 2020 Diamond Award Luncheon
18- South Healthcare Advocacy Network
25- Smart Talk for Women- Round Table
19- Successful Women in Business Luncheon
21- PULSE Meets the Board & Trustees 23- Government Affairs Committee Meeting: Boynton Beach 24- Boynton Beach Women's Business Council 28- Smart Talk for Women- Round Table 28- Live After Five: After Hours Network
17- FREE Workshop 17- PULSE Luncheon
25- Live After Five: After Hours Network 27- Boynton Beach: Government Affairs Council 27- Government Affairs Committee Meeting:
24- Smart Talk for Women Round Table 24- Live - After - Five 26- Boynton Beach: Government Affairs Council
Boynton Beach 28- Boynton Beach: Women's Business Council
27- Boynton Beach: Women's Business Council
Next Day Response on Loan Requests Term Loans and Lines of Credit Up to $250,000 Decisions Made Quickly and Locally All loans are subject to approval.
For more information including our five locations, please call (561) 544-8400 or visit LegacyBankFL.com.
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Boca Chamber 1800 North Dixie Highway Boca Raton, FL 33432-1892
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