David Centrella, ODP Business Solutions at Office Depot
Sheryl Clark, Boston Proper Ian Cotner, AT&T
Megan Escamilla, Neiman Marcus Group
Will Fleming, Chimney Trail Partners
Joshua Goldglantz, Gunster
Daniel Gropper, PhD, Florida Atlantic University
Scott Gunnell, JM & A Group
Jerad Hanlon, West Boca Medical Center
Daniel Hostettler, The Boca Raton
Jennifer Jolly, Boca Grove Golf and Tennis Club
Ahnich Khalid, Maggiano’s Little Italy Boca Raton
Amy Kemp, Florida Power & Light Company
Ken Lebersfeld, Capitol Lighting
Matthew Linderman, Boca West Country Club
Lincoln Mendez, Baptist Health
Mark Mileusnic, NCCI
Ross O’Connor, Morgan Stanley
Ethan Shapiro, Saint Andrew’s School
David Smail, ADT
John Tolbert, BRE Hotels & Resorts
Bob Tucker, BT Consulting
Ron Wichowski, Dimension Hospitality
Van Williams, Palm Beach State University
PROFESSIONAL TEAM
Troy M . McLellan, CCE, FCCP - President & CEO
Sarah E Pearson, IOM - Executive Vice President
Diana St-Germain - Finance Manager
Kaley Jones - Events Coordinator
Laurie Pierson - Business Development Manager
Marti Soroka - Membership Development Associate
Alexis Nasti - Communications Manager
Mandy Forrester - Foundation Manager, Golden Bell
Sherese James - Program Manager, YEA!
Jenifer Marquart - Boynton Beach Market Manager
Maria Alvarez - Executive Assistant to the President & CEO
Kristina Palacios - Office Manager
Advancing beyond the limit.
For over 73 of Boca Raton’s 100 remarkable years, the Boca Chamber has proudly upheld our mission to promote and sustain economic prosperity in South Palm Beach County. As we celebrate Boca’s centennial, our city continues to thrive as a premier business destination—home to more than half the corporate headquarters in the county, dozens of publicly-traded companies, and 13,000 businesses. With a rich history of innovation, commerce, and leadership, Boca Raton remains an ideal place to Live, Work, Learn, and Play.
With a strong economy, a highly skilled workforce, and a businessfriendly environment, Boca Raton attracts companies across diverse industries, from technology and finance to healthcare and hospitality. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, top-tier educational institutions, and world-class amenities further enhance its appeal, making it not only a hub for economic growth but also a desirable place to build a career and enjoy an exceptional quality of life. As businesses continue to flourish here, Boca Raton remains a shining example of a thriving and dynamic community with limitless opportunities.
Our organization is committed to Advancing Commerce further by equipping our members with the tools and resources needed to excel. One of the many ways we do this is by providing direct access to industry experts and thought leaders who share invaluable insights on professional development, economic trends, and business growth strategies. Whether through our signature events, educational programs, networking opportunities, or business advocacy we ensure that our members are empowered with knowledge and connections that drive success.
A prime example of this commitment is our Leadership Boca program, which provides emerging and established leaders with an in-depth understanding of our community while fostering invaluable relationships. This program helps participants develop the skills and insights necessary to drive positive change in their businesses and beyond. See page 10 for more information about this long-standing and dynamic program.
"From small startups to established enterprises, our members are driving progress, creating jobs, and investing in the future of Boca Raton. Their commitment to excellence and adaptability in an ever-changing economic landscape underscores why our city remains a thriving center for business growth."
In this issue of Connection Magazine, we are proud to feature Matthew Linderman—General Manager and Executive Vice President of one of the largest private country clubs in the United States and largest in the state of Florida—Boca West Country Club. A pivotal player in Boca Raton’s economy, Boca West not only sets the standard for excellence in the private club industry, but also plays a significant role in advancing commerce and supporting local businesses. Through its economic impact, job creation, and community partnerships, Boca West continues to strengthen the fabric of our business community. See pages 12-13 to read the full story.
As you explore this issue, you will discover stories of resilience, innovation, and leadership that showcase the strength of our local business community. From small startups to established enterprises, our members are driving progress, creating jobs, and investing in the future of Boca Raton. Their commitment to excellence and adaptability in an everchanging economic landscape underscores why our region remains a thriving center for business growth. We are proud to champion these businesses and provide them with the support, connections, and resources they need to succeed.
Thank you for being an integral part of the Boca Chamber as we continue to shape a vibrant and prosperous future for our entire community. Together, we continue to build a thriving business environment where success knows no limits.
Moving Business Forward,
Troy M. McLellan, CCE, FCCP President & CEO
President & CEO Troy M. McLellan
Boynton Beach
A THRIVING HUB FOR BUSINESS GROWTH
Boynton Beach is experiencing an exciting wave of economic development, driven by the strategic initiatives of the Greater Boca Raton/Boynton Beach Chamber of Commerce. These efforts are solidifying Boynton Beach’s reputation as a prime location for businesses to thrive. One of the standout contributions of the Chamber is its ability to connect local businesses with influential leaders. By advocating for local businesses, facilitating networking events, and providing essential resources, the Chamber plays a pivotal role in ensuring a thriving business ecosystem. The Chamber creates programs that support growth, attract new investments, and promote workforce development, ensuring that businesses in Boynton Beach have the tools needed to succeed.
THE CHAMBER’S ROLE IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The Chamber is fostering a dynamic business climate through programs like the Business in Boynton Luncheon, sponsored by FP&L, which brings together local entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and government officials to discuss opportunities for economic growth and collaboration.
We kicked off the year with Verdenia Baker, Palm Beach County Administrator, who provided an indepth look at how her office drives economic development across the county. She highlighted key infrastructure projects, workforce
initiatives, and business-friendly policies that help shape a thriving economic environment in Boynton Beach and beyond. Her insights set the stage for the Chamber’s continued efforts in fostering business growth.
Then, Antonia Smith from the Palm Beach Office of Equal Business Opportunity joined us for the Business in Boynton Luncheon. Smith has been instrumental in advocating for small and minority-owned businesses, ensuring they have access to resources, funding, and networking opportunities. Her work helps level
PROPERTY APPRAISALS AND BUSINESS GROWTH
Closing out a strong quarter of economic initiatives, the Chamber welcomed Dorothy Jacks, Palm Beach County Property Appraiser, to discuss the crucial relationship between property valuation and business growth. Jacks emphasized how the accurate appraisal of commercial and residential properties directly influences investment decisions, tax revenue, and infrastructure development.
As property values rise, the city sees increased funding for public services and business incentives, making it more attractive for new enterprises. The appraisal process also ensures fair market valuations, helping businesses and property owners make informed financial decisions that align with their long-term goals.
the playing field for businesses looking to establish themselves in the community, creating a more diverse and inclusive economic landscape.
Additionally, the Chamber provided access to a key state official, Lucdwin Luck, from the Office of State CFO Jimmy Patronis. Luck provided an overview of the State of Florida CFO's office, highlighting its role in state financial operations and businessrelated policies. His insights helped attendees better understand the resources available to businesses through the CFO’s office.
LOOKING AHEAD
Our proactive approach to economic development is setting the stage for sustained growth and prosperity. Through impactful programs, strategic partnerships, and community engagement, the Chamber is creating an environment where businesses can succeed and residents can enjoy an enhanced quality of life.
Giving Students a Voice
THROUGH THE GOLDEN BELL EDUCATION FOUNDATION
Giving Students a Voice
Aurora Lydia Dominguez, English Teacher, Boca Raton Community High School
Every time I see my students in The Paw Print hard at work, with writing, editing, laying out pages, I’m reminded why I do what I do. They are my heart, my purpose. And every time we receive support, whether through a grant or a simple kind word, I feel overwhelmingly grateful.
The Golden Bell Grant is more than just a contribution; it’s a lifeline. It’s ink on the page. It’s the moment a young journalist sees their byline for the first time and realizes that their voice matters. It’s a student finding their passion for storytelling. It’s a young creative writer, pouring their soul onto a page, knowing that soon, their work will be published in a product such as a newspaper, they never thought could be possible. Thanks for the years that you’ve supported us with the grant. It has been a gift that continues to shape the future of student journalism, their creativity, their critical thinking, and knack for leadership.
With this grant, I've ensured that my students have the research materials they need, the printing costs covered, and, most importantly, the ability to see their words come to life—all while spending time in my classroom, working hard on their project.
Every printed edition, every piece of student work, every breakthrough moment in our newsroom or the classroom in my creative courses at Boca High—it's all because someone believed in them.
When Dr. King added Creative Writing to my schedule for the first time this school year, it was another step in expanding opportunities for students to tell their stories, a true dream of mine.
And this funding? It makes sure that their stories and their dreams don’t just stay as ideas but become something real, something tangible.
To those who support student journalism and a student's creative writing path, so that students have a chance to learn and take those skills to the workforce and beyond, thank you. You change lives, and students never forget that time that they were believed in and loved.
Mission :
To support the Boca Raton public school system by administering funds and educational programs that promote business skills for students.
In 2024, Golden Bell fulfilled almost $103,000 in grants to 21 local K-12 public schools.
Scan to learn more or get involved.
Growing Innovative Leaders of Tomorrow
Growing Innovative Leaders of Tomorrow
THROUGH YEA! ENTREPRENEURIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMMING
Sherese James, Program Manager, YEA!
The Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) is a ground-breaking and exciting program that transforms local middle and high school students into real, confident entrepreneurs. Through the year-long program, students in grades 6-12 generate business ideas, conduct market research, write business plans, pitch to a panel of investors, and win seed money to launch their very own companies. The program year consists of two significant events: The CEO Roundtable and Elevator Pitch Competition held on January 22nd, and the Investor Panel Presentations held on March 5th. Through this comprehensive program, YEA! students not only learn entrepreneurial skills but also gain knowledge to become the great business leaders of tomorrow!
YEA! CEO ROUNDTABLE
From the CEO Roundtable, we are grateful to the CEOs who shared valuable information about their business journey and the importance of mentorship:
• Sheryl Clark, Boston Proper
• Jenn Jager, Plum Productions
• Michael Piccoli, On Target Digital Marketing
The second half of the night consisted of students pitching their businesses within 30-60 seconds to impress the audience and judges. The competition was stiff, but three rose to the top:
1st Place - Kyle Weinstock from Spanish River High School
2nd Place – Mia Song from Saint Andrew’s School
3rd Place – Jonah Weiner from Saint Andrew’s School
“SHARK TANK STYLE” INVESTOR PANEL COMPETITION
The Investor Panel Presentations were the final culminating event of the year, where students presented their innovative business ideas to win seed money from investor judges. Based upon the appeal and merit of the students’ plans and presentations, judges determined the amount of funds to allocate to each business. The investors also selected businesses to advance to the Young Entrepreneurs Academy Saunders Scholars Competition in Rochester, NY, where they will compete with students across the United States for college scholarships!
The top three businesses chosen to represent our Boca chapter in the national competition are:
• Kyle Weinstock (11th grader at Spanish River) HYDR8 Now, a portable water measuring and notification coaster
• Iris Hua (10th grader at Saint Andrew’s School) Shower Okey, an in-shower karaoke system
• Brandon Fina (10th grader at Saint Andrew’s School) Culture Crates, monthly box subscription of cultural items from various countries
Ishita Bansal, Luxeria Beauty
Ellie Dwyer & Sabrina Greenberg, Eco Loops
Jack Feldman, One Snap Sport
Brandon Fina, Culture Crates
Gabriel Garcia & Marven Jenty, Tyny Myghts
Aadi Grover, Meal-4-Everyone
Ethaniel Hazon, Street Play
Iris Hua, Shower Okey
Blake Kornhaber, John O’Sullivan, & Scott
Peck, Rapid Rescue
Ryan Leslie, EZ Wash
Neha Narwani, Smooth GripFlex
Christian Price-Rodriguez, Family Harmony
Keshav Raghavan, Boomee Ventures
TC Schrieber, The Pace Partner
Mia Song & Annie Zhang, Reefresh
Katherine Stephenson, Latch Fit
Jonah Weiner, Pla$tykCycle
Kyle Weinstock, HYDR8 Now
We are extremely proud of our entire YEA! Class of 2025 for all the hard work they accomplished to be the future CEOs and business leaders of tomorrow!
YEA! CLASS OF 2025
New Member Orientation
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
The Boca Chamber members listed below referred one of their contacts to join, and they did!
Karen Laurence 215 Properties, LLC
Jeff Marbach Payday Payroll
John McClaskie Leading Edge Mortgage Corp.
David Valdepenas NerdBird
Jeannie Roberts Town Center at Boca Raton
Josemaria Valdepenas Constant Balance Consulting
Joyce Hunter The Florida Printing Group
Cindee Connor Graze Craze
Phillip Lomenzo The Florida Printing Group
Audra Cohil Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort
Rick Schuster PA Lang Realty
Mary Sol Gonzalez Hispanic Entrepreneur Initiative - HEI
Kali Williams Oceans 234
Matthew Shelton Full House Public Adjusters
Welcome to the Warmer Side of Care.
There are many sides of care at Baptist Health. And each one stays true to our values. Bringing humanity, warmth and understanding to every person that comes through our doors. Which is why we’re here to stand by you, through all of life’s moments. Welcome to Baptist Health.
The Boca Chamber’s Leadership Boca program offers Chamber members an exceptional opportunity to deepen their understanding of Boca Raton and South Palm Beach County, enhance leadership capabilities, and embrace civic responsibility. Throughout the engaging Leadership Boca journey, participants benefit from immersive experiences that provide vital resources, broaden professional networks, and sharpen leadership skills essential for success in today's competitive environment.
Participants explore significant local topics such as healthcare advancements, environmental sustainability, and agricultural innovation. By directly engaging with industry leaders and experts, participants gain valuable insights into the pressing challenges and innovative solutions shaping these crucial sectors.
Interactions with city officials provide firsthand experience of local governance processes, underscoring the importance of active civic engagement and demonstrating the tangible influence that effective leadership has on community policies and initiatives.
On Economic Development Day, participants gain deeper insight into Boca Raton’s thriving business ecosystem, discovering how local businesses drive economic growth, innovation, and community well-being.
Human Services Day offers attendees the opportunity to engage directly with charitable organizations serving the Boca Raton community. This day fosters a profound appreciation for the critical services these organizations deliver and the significant impact they have on local residents.
Currently underway, the Class of 2025 will conclude their Leadership Boca experience with an official graduation ceremony on June 18th. Effective leadership is crucial to the success of our businesses and community at large. As alumni of Leadership Boca, my Co-Chair Dan Nathanson and I can personally affirm the program’s transformative impact on personal growth, professional networking, and community understanding.
It is an honor to serve as Chair for Leadership Boca 2025, and I eagerly anticipate seeing the accomplishments and lasting connections this year's class will forge.
Brad Mitchell - Northwestern Mutual
Brett Weinbender - Windward Risk Managers
Caroline Johnson - Johnson Ritchey Family Law
Cathryn Vaughn - Boca Grove
Courtney Kowaleski - Polen Capital
Dave Cohen - Lynn University
Eric Roby - Fuller Center
Fernanda Macedo - Fernanda Macedo State Farm
Jeff Guggenheim - The Harbor Financial Group at
Morgan Stanley
Jennifer Rohloff - Boca Raton Regional Hospital
Joe Mir - NCCI
Josh Cougler - On the Wall Home Entertainment & Secuirty Services
Kevin Cucci - Baptist Health South Florida
Kristen Conn - Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center
Marnie Omanoff - Boca Raton Regional Hospital
Maryanne Rodriguez
Matthew Brennan - Seacoast Bank
Michael Piccoli- On Target Digital Marketing
Michael Nathanson - The Nathanson Brothers Real Estate Team with RE/Max
Mitch Wiemer - NCCI
Natacha Nettles - Palm Beach State College
Natalie Capiro- George Snow Scholarship Fund
Paola Morales -AW Architects Inc.
Phillip Gabes - Boca Grove
Robert Linder - Schooley Mitchell
Samantha Gallo- Lynn University
Sandra Garcia - iThink Financial Credit Union
Sharel Pizarro - Spirit of Giving Network
Stacey Ramos- Boca Raton Regional Hospital
Tricia Sabataso - YMCA
Tyler Sheradsky - Truist
Alvaro Nuñez Alfaro, ’17 Founder/CEO Super Luxury Group
Advancing Commerce
AT THE LARGEST PRIVATE COUNTY CLUB IN FLORIDA
Boca West Country Club is renowned as one of the largest and most prestigious country clubs in the nation. The Club not only provides its Members with a luxurious lifestyle, but also delivers significant economic benefits to the City of Boca Raton. We had a chance to hear from Matthew Linderman, President, COO & General Manager, about his initiatives to Advance Commerce within The Club and the community.
Q. Boca West Country Club is a key player in Boca Raton's economy. How do you see The Club’s role in Advancing Commerce and supporting local businesses?
Boca West Country Club is more than just a private club, it is a significant economic force within Boca Raton. With 7,000 residents, our Membership represent a diverse demographic from all over the country and world. Visiting family members of our Members help boost local hospitality and tourism throughout the year, beyond just peak holiday seasons. Additionally, The Club attracts a large number of visitors for its events, tournaments, and social gatherings. These visitors frequent Boca Raton’s restaurants, retail stores, entertainment venues, local attractions, and healthcare facilities.
Boca West employs almost 700 staff members yearround, and that number grows to just under 1,200 during peak season. These jobs span multiple industries, including hospitality, culinary arts, golf and racquet sports management, spa and wellness services, maintenance, and administration.
Beyond direct employment, The Club maintains a broad network of partnerships with local vendors and service providers. We work with local farmers to source fresh produce for our restaurants and we engage local artisans for various events and activities we offer our Members. We prioritize keeping our economic footprint local when possible.
Q. How does Boca West Contribute to workforce development and career opportunities in the service industry?
As one of the largest employers in Boca Raton, Boca West plays a significant role in workforce development and creating career opportunities within the service industry, particularly in the hospitality sector—providing a variety of job opportunities across multiple departments, including restaurant services, maintenance, golf, and fitness.
The Club employs individuals with varying skill levels, from entry-level positions to more specialized roles, and offers competitive wages and benefits. We also offer training and development programs through the Boca West Academy, led by our Director of Learning and Development, to help employees build on their skills, grow within the organization, and advance in their careers. These programs include on-the-job training, classroom style training, mentorship opportunities, support for professional certifications, and Florida
Ready to Work accreditation. By collaborating with Universities, such as FAU, Lynn University, Palm Beach State College, and local High Schools, The Club supports workforce development by offering internships and training programs to students.
Boca West has a strong culture of growth and recognition and believes in promoting from within, offering many of its employees to take the next step, advance their careers, and take on leadership roles. The Club helps individuals build long-term careers in the service industry, reducing turnover and ensuring a stable and skilled workforce.
Q. As a leader in the hospitality and private club industry, what are the biggest challenges and opportunities in maintaining Boca West’s status as a premier country club while staying competitive in an evolving market?
One of the biggest challenges we face is the changing landscape and demographic of private clubs and luxury hospitality. The expectations of members are higher than ever, and they are looking for more than just exceptional golf and dining—they want a full-service lifestyle experience that includes state-of-the-art wellness facilities, innovative dining concepts, cutting-edge technology, and unique social and recreational activities. To stay ahead, we continuously invest in Capital Improvements to our facilities, enhance amenities and services, and offer diverse member experiences. Over the years, Boca West has undergone significant renovations to keep our facilities the best-in-class. Recently we enhanced and upgraded our Lifestyle Center and Aquatics complex and added modern dining experiences that rival top restaurants in the area. The Club is about to embark on yet another Capital Improvement plan, recently approved by its members, investing $95 million back into The Club's facilities. This plan includes the complete renovation of one of our four
"Markets evolve, consumer expectations shift, and technology advances at a rapid pace. The most successful businesses are those that remain forwardthinking, open to change, and willing to invest in relationships that drive collective success."
golf courses, renovation of the entire Racquet Sports facilities, expansion of the main clubhouse kitchen and loading dock, construction of an all new administration and operations building, as well as various enhancements and renovations to existing clubhouses.
Additionally, we see major opportunities in technology and sustainability. Integrating smart technology into club operations allows us to enhance member experiences while improving efficiency.
Sustainability is also a key focus and aligns with the values of today’s environmentally-conscious Members. Boca West has been ranked #3 in the U.S. for its sustainability practices by Vivid Leaf, an industry leader in sustainability certification. Vivid Leaf designated Boca West with its highest certification level, Sapphire Global Leader, after an extensive review of The Club’s entire operation. In its assessment, Vivid Leaf noted nearly 50 best practices in place by Boca West, including a chiller plant to generate ice that is leveraged to cool the main clubhouse, solar panels, rationalized mowing practices, all-electric member golf carts, a vegetable and herb garden, LED lighting, an advanced recycling program, leveraging lakes for irrigation, and many more initiatives.
Maintaining our status as a premier Country Club requires a balance of tradition and innovation. By staying adaptable, listening to our members, and continuously refining our amenities package, we ensure Boca West remains at the forefront of the industry.
Q. What has been your involvement with the Boca Chamber and how does the Chamber help to advance the Boca West Country Clubs mission?
The Boca Raton Chamber of Commerce is a powerful advocate for local businesses, and our involvement has been instrumental in strengthening Boca West’s ties to the community. The Chamber serves as a hub for networking, collaboration, and economic development, providing us with valuable opportunities to connect with other business leaders and community stakeholders.
One of the key ways the Chamber supports our mission is by promoting Boca Raton as a top-tier destination for luxury living, tourism, and business development. This directly benefits Boca West, as many of our prospective members are drawn to the vibrant economic and cultural landscape of our city.
Additionally, the Chamber's focus on workforce development aligns with our goals of attracting and retaining top talent. Through Chamber-sponsored leadership programs, educational partnerships, and economic initiatives, we have been able to engage with emerging professionals and support the growth of the local workforce.
By being actively involved in Chamber events, committees, and initiatives, we not only strengthen Boca West’s presence in the business community but also contribute to the overall prosperity of the region.
Q. What other community organizations or initiatives is Boca West involved in, and why are these partnerships important to your mission?
Boca West is deeply committed to philanthropy and community engagement. Both our members and employees are deeply involved in philanthropic efforts through the Boca West Cares initiative, which fosters a strong sense of community. Our flagship charitable initiative, the Boca West Children’s Foundation, was established to support at-risk children and families throughout Palm Beach County. The Foundation partners with over 30 local charities, providing funding for programs that address hunger, education, healthcare, and emotional well-being.
Through the Boca West Children’s Foundation, we support numerous local charities focused on children’s welfare, education, and healthcare. We also collaborate with nonprofits, schools, and cultural organizations to give back to the community. These partnerships reinforce our mission of making a meaningful impact beyond our club’s gates, ensuring that Boca Raton remains a thriving place to live, work, and play.
Beyond philanthropy, we actively support cultural and civic organizations through the Boca Raton Historical Society and various environmental sustainability programs.
Our goal is to be more than just a private Country Club, we aim to be a driving force for positive change in the community. Engaging with these organizations is not just about giving back; it’s about fostering a sense of community, not only within our gates.
Q. What advice would you give to business owners and executives about fostering strategic partnerships and community involvement for long-term growth?
I strongly believe that no business succeeds in isolation. Whether you’re running a private club, a retail store, or a corporate enterprise, fostering strategic partnerships and community involvement are essential for long-term growth.
Building strong community relationships is essential for sustainable success. I encourage business leaders to engage with local organizations, support workforce development, and find ways to give back. Investing in people—both employees and the community—creates goodwill, strengthens brand reputation, and ultimately drives long-term growth. Strategic partnerships open doors to new opportunities and keep businesses connected to the broader economic landscape.
My advice to business leaders is to actively engage with local organizations, whether it be through the Chamber of Commerce, nonprofit initiatives, or industry associations. These relationships create valuable networking opportunities, help establish brand credibility, and open doors to new collaborations.
It’s also important to focus on giving back. Businesses that invest in their communities through philanthropy, workforce development, or mentorship tend to build stronger customer loyalty and goodwill. Corporate social responsibility isn’t just a trend; it’s a key factor in business sustainability.
Finally, always stay adaptable. Markets evolve, consumer expectations shift, and technology advances at a rapid pace. The most successful businesses are those that remain forward-thinking, open to change, and willing to invest in relationships that drive collective success.
Ribbon Cuttings
Over the past few months, we’ve had the pleasure of celebrating grand openings and anniversaries across our community! The Chamber has welcomed a surge of Ribbon Cuttings from a variety of industries—clear proof that South Florida’s economy is thriving and businesses are on the rise.
We’re grateful to everyone who has joined us in supporting these new ventures. Each event has been a fantastic opportunity to foster connections, showcase community spirit, and welcome growth in Boca, Boynton, and beyond.
Want to be part of the excitement? Check out upcoming Ribbon Cutting ceremonies at www.bocachamber.com/events. We’d love to see you there!
2025 Tallahassee Fly-In ADVOCATING FOR BUSINESS & GROWTH 2025 Tallahassee Fly-In
Sarah Pearson, EVP Boca Chamber, IOM
From March 4-6, the Boca Chamber led a delegation of South Palm Beach County business leaders to Tallahassee for its annual Fly-In, engaging with State Legislators, industry leaders, and government officials on key policy issues.
The trip featured briefings with the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association and Florida Chamber of Commerce, followed by meetings with state officials, including Florida Secretary of Commerce Alex Kelly, Commissioner Wilton Simpson, and multiple Legislators representing Palm Beach County. Attendees also participated in high-level discussions at the Palm Beach County Legislative Appreciation Luncheon and networking receptions.
Top advocacy priorities included affordable housing, insurance reform, elimination of the Business
Rent Tax, economic development incentives, aerospace industry support, and funding for Florida Atlantic University. The Chamber emphasized policies to foster business growth, protect employer rights, and enhance workforce opportunities.
The Boca Chamber’s 2025 Tallahassee Fly-In provided an invaluable opportunity for South Palm Beach County business leaders to engage directly with lawmakers and ensure that the needs of local businesses remain a priority in Florida’s legislative
process. The trip reinforced the Chamber’s commitment to fostering economic growth, advocating for pro-business policies, and strengthening relationships between the private sector and government.
As the Chamber continues its advocacy efforts, the insights and connections gained during this trip will serve as a foundation for ongoing policy engagement and business development in the region.
