Issuu

chairman’s welcome

lakeland: promoting economic

prosperity & working for a brighter tomorrow. It is my distinct pleasure to present to you the 2012 Guide to Lakeland. Inside these pages you will find quality products and services to assist with your purchasing needs. When you “Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents!” you’re helping to create jobs and promote economic growth in our community. For more than 90 years this Chamber has worked tirelessly to promote a thriving business environment. The past success of our Chamber is the result of the exemplary dedication of our Chamber staff, board of directors and more than 1,600 member businesses. This continued high level of commitment will make the difference in Lakeland’s future. Through various services and programs, the Chamber gives member businesses a voice in government and helps to improve the quality of life for all of us in

every facet of our community: education, business development, public policy and other important community issues. The sustainability of a community is dependent upon strong public and private sector relationships. Our Chamber, together with local government and education partners, works collaboratively on initiatives to promote Lakeland as a desirable place to live, work, learn and play. With this Guide, residents, newcomers and visitors will find good reason to be excited about life in Lakeland. From details about Lakeland’s vibrant downtown atmosphere to information about cutting-edge

healthcare, the Guide to Lakeland is packed with information and resources to assist families. For additional resources, business services, community activities and programs please visit LakelandChamber.com. Best wishes for a most successful 2012,

Walker Wilkerson, Chairman of the Board

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

we serve you. in more ways than you realize. Work, school, medical visits, but without a car how do you get there? Simply ride the Citrus Connection, your local public transit link. We know that 82% of our riders do not have access to a personal vehicle and that without our bus service many

Lakeside Village Chamber Ad08B

lifestyles and personal freedoms would be drastically altered. In a recent on-board survey with over 700 completed, our riders told us they use our buses to go to work (49%), shopping (38%), medical appointments (30%) and school (19%) to name just a few. Whether

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you take public transit or not, the difference we make in the community might be impacting you in ways not even realized. Thank you for your support of the Citrus Connection — providing public transit for 30 years and proud to be part of the community!

www.RideCitrus.com

Stay a While! You'll want to spend the whole day at Lakeside Village. Shop at Belk, Kohl's, Bed Bath & Beyond, Books-A-Million and stylish boutiques. Enjoy a dozen great places to eat. Relax at our 18-screen Cobb Theatres. There's something for everyone. Come see for yourself!

Located at the corner of Harden Boulevard and Polk Parkway in Lakeland, Florida. www.shoplakesidevillage.net 863- 616- 9360

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

table of contents

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce About Lakeland Chairman’s Welcome..................................................................................1 For Work or For Play..................................................................................4 Downtown Cool...........................................................................................6 Arts & Culture.............................................................................................9 Sports & Recreation................................................................................ 12 Festivals, Events & Attractions............................................................. 16 Healthcare................................................................................................ 20 Employment Opportunities.................................................................... 26 Learning & Education.............................................................................. 29 Out on the Town....................................................................................... 32 A True Sense of Place.............................................................................. 34 About the Chamber Chamber Accreditation ......................................................................... 37 2012 Executive Committee................................................................... 39 Chairman’s Circle......................................................................................42 Working Together................................................................................... 51 Here to Serve You.................................................................................... 52 Buyer’s Guide Preferred Business Directory Alphabetical Member Listing.................................................................................. 53 Categorical Member Listing Index......................................................................... 97 Categorical Member Listing................................................................................... 99

35 Lake Morton Drive | Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 688-8551 | F: (863) 683-7454 info@LakelandChamber.com LakelandChamber.com

Publisher & President: Kathleen L. Munson

Managing Editor: Amy S. Wiggins

Design:

tmr Agency tmrAgency.com

Contributing Photographers: Tom Hagerty ThomasHagerty@gmail.com tmr Agency tmrAgency.com Marti Newkirk Photography email@martisparty.com A free copy of 2012 Guide to Lakeland may be picked up from the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce or obtained via U.S. Mail by sending $10 for shipping made payable to the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce. 2012 Guide to Lakeland is published by the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce, 35 Lake Morton Drive, Lakeland, FL 33801, (863) 688-8551. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the express written consent of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved © 2012. Listed content descriptions for members of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce were provided and approved by each active Chamber member. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce assumes no responsibility for the content, errors or omissions.

for work or play

built upon historic character, legacy, charity & volunteerism, lakeland is

a true sense of place. Built upon historic character, heritage, philanthropy and volunteerism, Lakeland offers its residents and visitors a true sense of place. From its pedestrian friendly downtown to quiet picnics on the shore of one of its lakes, Lakeland has something to offer each of its diverse residents and visitors. Founded by Abraham Munn, Lakeland was incorporated January 1, 1885. Excellent railroad service in the mid1890’s quickly made Lakeland one of the premier cities in all of Florida. From

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

the winter strawberry crops of the mid1890’s to being the 3rd city in all of Florida to have electric lights, Lakeland has always been a hub of innovation and progressive thinkers. We invite you to see how Lakeland’s commitment to downtown development, redevelopment, historic preservation, cultural amenities and a business friendly environment make Lakeland a wonderful place for residents, visitors and businesses alike.

Newcomers Information Garbage Removal/Recycling

Lakeland Solid Waste Management LakelandGov.net/PublicWorks | (863) 834-8773 Republic Services RepublicServices.com | (863) 665-1489 Utilities

Lakeland Electric LakelandElectric.com | (863) 834-9535 TECO Peoples Gas PeoplesGas.com | (877) 832-6747 Central Florida Gas CFGas.com | (863) 293-2125 Polk County Utilities Polk-County.net | (863) 298-4100 Telephone

Bright House Networks MyBrightHouse.com | (866) 976-EASY Verizon Verizon.com | (800) 483-4200 Cable Television

Bright House Networks MyBrightHouse.com | (863) 965-7766 Verizon Verizon.com | (863) 683-4390

Numbers to Know

Florida Consumer Services...................(800) 435-7352 Better Business Bureau........................(800) 275-6614 Business Development Assistance

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce.(863) 688-8551 Central Florida SCORE...........................(863) 619-5783 Enterprise Florida..................................(407) 956-5600 Lakeland Downtown Development Authority ........................................................................(863) 687-8910 Lakeland Economic Development Council ................................................................(863) 687-3788 Small Business Development Center.....(863) 534-5915 Emergency & Public Safety

Emergency...................................................................911 Fire Department Business Office........(863) 834-8200 Peace River Center Crisis Hotline........(863) 519-3744 Police Department Non-Emergency...(863) 834-6900 Police Department Crime Report........(863) 834-6966 Polk County Emergency Management....(863) 534-5600 Polk County Sheriff Non-Emergency.....(863) 533-0344 Lakeland Electric Emergency...............(863) 834-4248 Sewage Emergency Line ......................(863) 834-8277 City Offices

City Hall Offices.....................................(863) 834-6000 Library Reference..................................(863) 834-4280 Parks & Recreation ..............................(863) 834-6035 Polk County Offices

Animal Services.....................................(863) 499-2600 Board of County Commissioners.........(863) 534-6000 Building Permits....................................(863) 534-6080 Clerk of Circuit & County Courts.........(863) 534-4000 Courthouse Annex.................................(863) 603-6412 Environmental Services ......................(863) 534-7377 Health Department...............................(863) 413-2620 School Board of Polk County . .............(863) 534-0500 Social Services.......................................(863) 533-1111 Supervisor of Elections.........................(863) 534-5888 Tag Agency.............................................(863) 603-6497 Tax Collector...........................................(863) 534-4700 Traffic Signs/Signals.............................(863) 535-2200 Florida State Government Offices

Agency for WorkForce Innovation.......(850) 245-7105 Driver License Division..........................(863) 499-2323 Florida Highway Patrol..........................(863) 499-2300 Department of Revenue.......................(863) 499-2260 State Information Operator.................(850) 488-1234 United States Government Offices

Federal Bureau of Investigation..........(863) 682-6114 Social Security Administration............(800) 772-1213 I.R.S. (Tax Forms Only)..........................(800) 829-1040 Post Office..............................................(800) 275-8777 Veterans Administration......................(800) 827-1000 Social Services

United Way Referral Line...........................................211

Miles to… Tampa, 35 Orlando, 55 Jacksonville, 195 Miami, 235 Tallahassee, 270

Population 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010 2011 2016 2020

42,803 47,406 70,576 78,452 94,163 97,422 106,577 (projection) 115,050 (projection)

Employment (Lakeland MSA) Government Education & Health Services Professional & Business Services Retail Trade Leisure & Hospitality Manufacturing Transportation, Warehousing Financial Activities Mining, Logging & Construction Wholesale Trade Other Services Information

28,900 28,600 27,900 24,700 15,200 13,900 11,500 11,200 10,200 8,300 8,000 1,700

Top Employers Publix Super Markets, Inc. Lakeland Regional Medical Center City of Lakeland GEICO Watson Clinic LLP GC Services, LP Rooms to Go Summit Consulting, Inc. W.S. Badcock Corporation McDonald Construction Corp

9,300 4,600 2,500 2,050 1,500 1,000 800 693 600 500

Sources: Lakeland Economic Development Council, City of Lakeland Community Development, Central Florida Development Council 2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

downtown cool

Lakeland’s downtown is the

energized epicenter

of the Lakeland area. Beautiful green spaces, vibrant stories of our history, exciting retail and delectable dining exist side-by-side in our pedestrian-friendly Downtown. Green spaces

Hollis Garden at Lake Mirror Community Park is a formal garden in the Neo-Classical European style featuring 1.2 acres with 10,000 flowers and ornamental shrubs and shade trees. Open Tuesday – Sunday. (863) 603-6281 Barnett Family Park at Lake Mirror Community Park welcomes children to the public interactive fountain area, playground, 6

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

labyrinth, covered picnic area, and public restrooms. (863) 603-6280

is a recognizable landmark at the Lake Mirror Community Park.

Sunflower Preschool Playground at Barnett Family Park is specifically designed for children 3-5 years old and features age appropriate equipment that provides maximum early childhood developmental and play opportunities.

Lake Morton is home to swans, geese and serves as a bird sanctuary. The public park is a beautiful place for a picnic or family fun and exploration.

Lemon Street Promenade features a variety of sculptures from the Florida Outdoor Sculpture Competition. Albert Paley’s “Tribute to the Spirit of Volunteerism” stands at Lake Mirror and

Munn Park has been restored to reflect its original town square design, with a public fountain, shade trees and park benches. Perfect for reading a book or just taking it all in!

tom hagerty/lakeland local

Downtown Dining & Entertainment Bay Street Bistro | (863) 683-4229 Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro BlackAndBrew.com | (863) 682-1210 Crispers Restaurants, Inc. Crispers.com | (863) 682-7708 Fresco’s Bakery & Bistro FrescosBakery.com | (863) 683-5267 Garden Bistro | (863) 686-3332

Interested in starting a business in Downtown?

“Class A” office buildings and smaller buildings are available for businesses looking to be a part of Downtown’s vibrant community. Developers and investors may be eligible for economic incentives. For available properties, visit LakelandCRA.net or call (863) 834-6011.

Downtown Shopping & Activities Brooke Pottery BrookePottery.com | (863) 688-6844 Explorations V Children’s Museum ExplorationsV.com | (863) 687-3869 Flowers By Edith FlowersByEdith.com | (863) 686-1134 George L. Gaines, Jeweler GLGaines.com | (863) 688-8557 Goin’ Postal GoinPostal.com | (863) 688-1174 Lakeland Community Theatre LakelandCommunityTheatre.com | (863) 603-7529 Nathan’s Men’s Store NathansMensStore.com | (863) 682-2811 Paint Along Studios PaintAlongStudios.com | (863) 409-5771 Patchwork Pig, LLC PatchworkPigOfLakeland.com | (863) 682-4774 Polk Museum of Art PolkMuseumofArt.org | (863) 688-7743 Polk Theatre Inc. PolkTheatre.org | (863) 682-7553

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Y E A R S LAKELAND

With over 390 years of diversified business experience and leadership, Platinum Bank’s Lakeland Advisory Board members are anchors in the local business community and have experienced the advantages and challenges in the local economy. The knowledge and understanding that has been gained through these experiences is what makes Platinum Bank your established business partner. As key leaders in the local community, they have a vested interest in ensuring the local economy succeeds.

BRIAN SWAIN [31 YRS] . BRIAN PHILPOT [16 YRS] . ROB HARPER [23 YRS] . KEN ELY [33 YRS] . DON STEPHENS [41 YRS] JOE RUTHVEN [54 YRS] . DALE JACOBS [36 YRS] . TOM MOORE [56 YRS] . MARTY HIGGENBOTHAM [50 YRS] . RALPH FLETCHER [50 YRS] . JEFF STOKES [20 YRS]

WWW. PLATINUMBANK .COM

DOWNTOWN LAKELAND: 724 S. FLORIDA AVENUE | 863.616.1234 SOUTH LAKELAND: 5404 S. FLORIDA AVENUE | 863.709.1234 OFFICES IN BRANDON, TAMPA, PLANT CITY AND WINTER HAVEN

LOCAL OWNERS, LOCAL DECISIONS

Extremely FLORIDIAN GrayRobinson is dedicated to serving Florida with 10 full-service law offices from Tallahassee to Key West. We are deeply connected to the communities we serve and are committed to providing exceptional client service. We offer legal assistance to Fortune 500 companies, emerging businesses, lending institutions, local and state governments, developers, entrepreneurs and individuals.

Fort LauderdaLe JacksonviLLe key West LakeLand MeLbourne MiaMi napLes orLando taLLahassee taMpa 863-284-2200 l www.gray-robinson.com 8

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

24 HOUR DRIVE-UP ATM

2012

arts & culture

Discover an ACTIVE a n d e n c h a n t i n g

arts community with a sincere

regard for culture.

Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture & Visitors Center

FLSouthern.edu/FLLWCtr | (863) 680-4444 Florida Southern College is home to the largest single-site collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in the world. Today, the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center attracts more than 30,000 visitors annually to tour the campus, along with an exhibit of Wright’s photos, drawings, correspondence and a model of the campus he named “Child of the Sun.”

Florida Dance Theatre

FloridaDanceTheatre.org | (863) 802-0399 Florida Dance Theatre is Polk County’s premier professional dance company dedicated to the enhancement of the community through the art of dance. The Company consists of professional dancers from around the country and apprentices who have attained a high level of proficiency. The training academy focuses on the teaching of artistic techniques, beginners through advanced.

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Imperial Symphony Orchestra

ImperialSymphony.org (863) 688-3743 From September through May the orchestra presents five “Masterworks” concerts at the Youkey Theatre, Lakeland Center with world-class guest artists. Another successful event for the ISO is the annual fully staged opera, bringing world-renowned singers to the city in January, in collaboration with Florida Southern College. Outdoor “Pops” concerts are performed in Lakeland and Winter Haven as well.

Lakeland Community Theatre

LakelandCommunityTheatre.com (863) 603-7529 The theatre produces four Main Stage Productions per season which run from August through July and also presents “The Edge,” an alternate Stage Read series. The Theatre for Youth offers a play in January, June and September. Theatre

classes are offered throughout the year, as well as Spring and Summer theatre camps.

Harrison School for the Arts

HarrisonArts.com (863) 499-2855 The Lois Cowles Harrison Center for the Visual and Performing Arts offers programs in motion picture arts, music, theatre, musical theatre, dance, and visual arts for students in grades 9-12. Performances are open to the public and include the Harrison Symphony, Harrison Singers, theatre and musical main stage productions, concerts from the Piano and Dance Departments, visual arts exhibitions and short films.

Explorations V Children’s Museum

ExplorationsV.com (863) 687-3869 Explorations V offers three floors of kid-powered exhibits and interactive programs that

celebrate the five senses! Art and science are the pathways for many of the learning concepts, unleashing the power of play and surprising senses on a jet-stream journey of discovery through touchable exhibits featuring art, science, literature, math, health, life skills and cultures from around the world.

The Lakeland Center

TheLakelandCenter.com (863) 834-8100 Central Florida’s premier multipurpose entertainment complex is home to many diverse contemporary and performing arts programs including the Lakeland Broadway and Entertainment Concert Series, The Imperial Symphony Orchestra, The Lakeland Concert Band, various children’s performances and numerous dance and talent competitions. The 2,300 seat Youkey Theater is a focal point in the Central Florida market, hosting a variety of cultural and entertainment events.

FloridaAirMuseum.org (863) 644-2431 Designated in 2003 as Florida’s official aviation museum and education center, the Florida Air Museum at SUN ‘n FUN displays a unique collection of more than 35 antique, classic and “home built” airplanes. The museum also is home to the extensive personal aviation collection of Howard Hughes, including a 14-foot model of the HK-1 (a.k.a. “Spruce Goose”) and other personal memorabilia.

Polk Museum of Art

PolkMuseumofArt.org (863) 688-7743 The Museum’s diverse exhibition schedule features more than 20 exhibitions per year in a wide variety of artistic styles and genres: from realistic to abstract, and from ancient to extremely contemporary. The Museum also provides a comprehensive calendar

of events and educational activities. Don’t forget the unique Museum Store filled with artistic gifts, jewelry and home décor.

Polk Theatre

PolkTheatre.org (863) 682-7553 One of only three atmospheric theatres still in existence in the state of Florida, the Polk Theatre opened in 1928 as a vaudeville and movie house. The Polk Theatre shows quality films, independent and foreign films and hosts a yearly Performing Arts Series that brings nationally acclaimed shows to its stage.

Florida Air Museum

Noticeably DiffereNt. • • • • • •

Accounting Audit Tax Outsourcing International Advisory

Lakeland, Florida

863-683-6783

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

tom hagerty/lakeland local

sports & recreation

w e h av e a s t r o n g r e p u tat i o n a s a

world-class sports center

for amateurs & professionals. Sports enthusiasts from around the world enjoy our area for organized amateur and professional sports events as well as opportunities to frequent world-class lakes, playgrounds and park facilities.

Lakeland Parks and Recreation

LakelandGov.net/ParkRec (863) 834-6035 Lakeland Parks and Recreation Department oversees a full complement of recreational activities and multi-purpose facilities. The recreation division plays host to the more traditional sports such as tennis, swimming, softball, basketball and soccer programs as well as fun-filled leagues that introduce the excitement of dodge ball and kickball to the community.

Aquatics

Barnett Splash Pad 121 South Lake Avenue | (863) 834-3157 Gandy Pool 404 Imperial Boulevard | (863) 834-3157 Simpson Park Pool 1725 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, (863) 834-2286 Tennis

Beerman Family Tennis complex 1000 E Edgewood Drive | (863) 834-2374 Kelly Recreation Complex 404 Imperial Boulevard | (863) 834-3284 Lake Parker Park 910 E Granada Street | (863) 834-2233 Woodlake Park 3415 New Jersey Road | (863) 834-6035

Fishing

park spotlight:

Lake Parker park

910 E. Granada Street (863) 834-2233

Basketball Boat Ramp Fishing Jogging Path Lawn Bowling

Nature Trail Soccer Tennis Picnic Area Volleyball Playground Roller Hockey Shuffleboard

The Thomas R. Shaw Recreation Complex at Lake Parker Park features 32 shuffleboard courts and one state-of-the-art lawn bowling green with Henselite artificial turf, the only one in Florida!

With more than 600 freshwater lakes, rivers and phosphate pits, Polk County has a world-renowned reputation for great freshwater fishing. Excellent saltwater fishing is available just a short drive away in the Gulf of Mexico. Required fishing licenses are easily attainable at most bait and tackle shops or through the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission website, MyFWC.com. The website also contains useful information such as fishing tips, forecasts, regulations and events. Many of the area’s park facilities feature boat ramps, providing direct access to the county’s beautiful assortment of lakes and rivers. For specific park details, visit LakelandGov.net/parkrec.

Professional Sports

Detroit Tigers/Lakeland Flying Tigers

LakelandFlyingTigers.com (863) 686-8075 Lakeland is the Spring Training headquarters for the 2011 American League Central Division Champion Detroit Tigers and the regular season home of its minor league affiliate in the Class A Florida State League, the Lakeland Flying Tigers. The relationship between Lakeland and the Detroit Tigers is the longest lasting relationship between a major league baseball team and a current Spring Training host city. This spring will mark the Tigers’ 76th year training in Lakeland. The Lakeland Flying Tigers find inspiration for their name and colors from the former Lakeland School of Aeronautics which trained more than 8,000 pilots between 1940 and 1945, some of whom flew with the Flying Tigers in China during World War II. Joker Marchant Stadium, the Tigers’ home field, is a state-of-the-art facility that features six luxury suites, a second tier concourse level and an outfield berm, as well as individual seats with cup holders and improved seating for fans with disabilities. 2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

tom hagerty/lakeland local

Lakeland Raiders Indoor Football

LakelandRaiders.com (863) 834-7511 Drawing inspiration from the Marine Raiders of World War II, the Lakeland Raiders Professional Indoor/Arena Football Team is sanctioned by the Ultimate Indoor Football League. The Raiders play home games at The Lakeland Center. The Lakeland Raiders organization is a community-based team that supports affordable family fun and entertainment. 2012 Inaugural Season Home games for the Raiders are March 10, March 17, April 14, April 27, May 14, May 26 and June 2. One Team. One Mission. The Invasion begins! Surrounding Area

Nearby Tampa is home to NFL’s 2003 Super Bowl Champions, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the NHL’s 2004 Stanley Cup Champions, the Tampa Bay Lightning, and MLB’s 2008 American League East Division Champions, the Tampa Bay Rays. In Orlando, you’ll find the NBA’s 2009 Eastern Conference Champions, the Orlando Magic. tampa bay Buccaneers Buccaneers.com | (813) 870-2700 Tampa bay lightning Lightning.NHL.com | (813) 301-6500

Tampa bay rays TampaBay.Rays.MLB.com | (888) 326-7297 Orlando Magic NBA.com/Magic | (866) 239-9666

YMCA of West Central Florida Lakeland Family YMCA YMCAWCF.org (863) 644-3528

Fontaine Gills Family YMCA

YMCAWCF.org (863) 859-7769 Much more than just “a place to work out,” the Y is committed to strengthening our community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Financial aid is available for qualified applicants. - “Success Afterschool” program for K-8 - Summer & School Break Camps - Youth Sports - Aquatics - Teen Programs - Wellness Centers - Group Exercise Classes - Active Older Adults - Wellness Programs

Baseball Training Center

Florida Baseball Heaven BaseballHeavenPC.com (863) 644‑0500 Health & Fitness

Gold’s Gym/American Fitness, Inc. GoldsGym.com | (863) 646‑3036 Lifestyle Family Fitness Lake Miriam Shopping Center LFF.com | (863) 644‑3030 Lifestyle Family Fitness Downtown LFF.com | (863) 688-6966 Pyramid Profiles PyramidProfiles.net | (863) 797‑6107 Serious Exercise, L.L.C. SeriousExercise.com | (863) 686‑9593 Total Body Conditioning, Inc. TBCPersonalTraining.com, | (863) 937‑8996 Warrior Running Camps Warr10r.com | (863) 937‑9786 Golf

Lakeland and the surrounding area play host to more than two dozen golf courses, offering a variety of challenging venues for both public and private play. Cleveland

Public Play

Bramble Ridge Golf Course, Inc. BRGolf.com | (863) 667-1988 Cleveland Heights Golf Course LakelandGov.net/chgolf (863) 834-4653 Huntington Hills Golf & Country Club HuntingtonHillsCountryClub.com (863) 853-9393

tom hagerty/lakeland local

Heights Golf Course features 27 classically designed holes that offer a challenge to all skill levels. Cleveland Heights is a municipal facility with a private club feel.

YMCA Par 3, Home of the First Tee in Lakeland

YMCAWCF.org (836) 577-0236 Fun for the whole family! The lighted driving range, practice greens, netted practice “cage”, and 9-hole, par 3 golf course are open to the public.

Professional golf instructors offer individual and group instruction to adults and youth.

YMCA Par 3 YMCAWCF.org/Par3 | (863) 577-0236

The First Tee program curriculum offers progressive levels of golf instruction and includes lessons in “Life Skills” which emphasize the nine core values of honesty, sportsmanship, courtesy, judgment, integrity, perseverance, respect, responsibility and confidence. All camps and programs are available to boys and girls ages 6-18. Financial Aid is available to qualified applicants.

Private & Semi-Private Courses

Big Cypress golf club BigCypressGolfClub.net (863) 859-6871 The Club at Eaglebrooke Eaglebrooke.com | (863) 701-0101 Grasslands Golf & Country Club Oakbridge.com | (863) 680-1600 Lone Palm Golf Club LonePalmGolfClub.com (863) 499-5480

LAKELAND

RAIDERS Indoor

football

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

festivals & attractions

tom hagerty/lakeland local

Seasonal festivals & year-round attractions are plentiful in the lakeland area. Residents and visitors alike enjoy events that meet the needs of a diverse array of interests. Visit LakelandChamber.com/events for up to date information on events and happenings in the area.

Bok Tower Gardens

BokTower.org (863) 676-1408 Located in Lake Wales, this National Historic Landmark offers the beauty and serenity 16

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

of a 250 acre Olmsted-designed landscape garden located on one of peninsular Florida’s highest points. Music from the 60-bell Singing Tower carillon fills the garden daily. The Pinewood Estate showcases one of the finest examples of Mediterranean-style architecture in Florida. A nature preserve and walking trails, as well as a visitor center, café, gift shop and free parking are available. Located 10 miles from LEGOLAND® Florida.

Fantasy of Flight

FantasyofFlight.com (863) 984-3500 General admission to this aviationthemed attraction showcasing vintage aircraft from the world’s largest private collection includes themed immersion experiences, simulators, interactive exhibits, a tram tour of aircraft maintenance areas, restoration and backlot tours and a daily aerial demonstration (weather permitting). “Wing Walk” Air, Ropes Course & Zip line invites visitors to defy gravity at this all new mid-air challenge. Hot air balloon rides and biplane rides are available for an additional charge. Fantasy of Flight is located at exit 44 off I-4.

LEGOLAND Florida

January:

LEGOLANDFloridaResort.com (863) 595-2330 Nearly 50 million LEGO® bricks have been assembled in Central Florida to produce the most stunning creation yet – LEGOLAND® Florida. Inspired by the famous LEGO® brick, the new 150-acre theme park caters to kids ages 2-12 with more than 50 rides, shows and attractions, and a breathtaking botanical garden. A full day of high-energy, memory-making fun awaits families at LEGOLAND® Florida, the ideal family vacation getaway. Just 45 minutes west of Orlando and a 45-minute drive east from Tampa!

Lakeland Pig Festival

LakelandPigFest.net (863) 450-3322 Every January, more than 30,000 people enjoy Lakeland’s Annual Pig Festival. Enjoy food from 300 BBQ teams competing in various categories for a chance to qualify for the America Royal Invitational, the largest barbeque contest in the world. Tigertown, the spring training facility for the Detroit Tigers, serves as the perfect venue for an afternoon of fun for the whole family.

event spotlight:

downtown Marti Newkirk Photography

tom hagerty/lakeland local

Downtown Lakeland’s First Fridays DowntownLakelandFL.com (863) 513-3669

Downtown Lakeland is home to outstanding restaurants, unique retailers & all around “cool” folks. Each month, thousands of residents & guests make First Friday their destination for food, entertainment and special arts activities.

Downtown Lakeland’s Farmer’s Curb Market LDDA.org/CurbMarket | (863) 221-4633

Located in the plaza of the Peterson Building at 200 N Kentucky Avenue, this weekly market features produce, arts & crafts, organic meats, jewelry, live music & more. For current vendors and special events, visit the web site! 2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

April:

Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In

Sun-n-Fun.org (863) 644-2431 Each Spring, tens of thousands of aviation enthusiasts travel to one of the world’s largest aviation events, the Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In. Held at the Sun ‘n Fun Complex at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport, this popular week-long event features more than 4,000 airplanes, daily air shows and a Friday night air show complete with fireworks. In addition, educational forums, seminars and workshops for virtually every aviation interest are available. May:

MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake

PolkMuseumofArt.com (863) 688-7743 From its introduction in 1974 as a crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public

Library, Polk Museum of Art’s MIDFLORIDA Mayfaire by-the-Lake has grown into one of Florida’s premier outdoor art festivals. Every Mother’s Day weekend, more than 180 artists display their creative wares around the shores of beautiful Lake Morton. Enjoy great food, live entertainment, and free art activities at the Children’s Art Tent. July:

Red, White & Kaboom Independence Celebration

LakelandGov.net (863) 834-6000 Each July, Lakeland residents and visitors gather around Lake Mirror Downtown for an Independence Day celebration including food, live music & fireworks! In addition to blankets & chairs, spectators bring canned goods to the event to replenish local food pantries.

September – June:

Florida Southern College Festival of Fine Arts

FLSouthern.edu/FFA (863) 680-4296 The Festival of Fine Arts at Florida Southern College is an annual series of visual art exhibitions and live performances in theater, music and dance. Now in its 52nd year, the 2011-12 Season showcases artists from around the world and runs through June 4 with nearly 30 exciting events. The Festival also welcomes back the free to the public Child of the Sun Jazz Festival in April.

Life is better IN A BRIGHT HOUSE!

Around the corner. Right where you need us.

BRIGHT HOUSE NETWORKS

TV - HOME PHONE - INTERNET THE NICE THING ABOUT BEING THE LOCAL BANK is that we have a vested interest in the community. We’re part of it. So we’re doing more than simply helping clients manage their finances. We’re helping neighbors achieve their dreams. And, like any good local bank, we’re conveniently located. With 11 offices in Polk County, we’re probably just around the corner.

B A N K I N G

I N S U R A N C E

I N V E S T M E N T S

• Exclusive local programming and 100s of hours of HD • Home Phone service with unlimited calling in the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada • Road Runner® High Speed Online, another Bright House exclusive

1-866-976-EASY I brighthouse.com

Serviceable areas only. Some restrictions apply. Products and services subject to change. Road Runner and related indicia are (TM) and (c) Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s11)

tom hagerty/lakeland local

October:

Lake Mirror Classic Auto Festival

LakeMirrorClassic.com (863) 683-1540 The display of more than 500 vehicles on and surrounding the restored 1920’s, art deco-inspired Lake Mirror promenade Downtown is one of the premier regional automobile shows in the southeastern United States. In addition to attracting more than 35,000 spectators, the Lake Mirror Classic annually draws top collector

spotlight:

cars from the southeast and serves as a support event to the prestigious Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance. December:

Holiday Walk-About

DowntownLakelandFL.com/holidaywalkabout (863) 513-3669 This annual event in Downtown Lakeland celebrates the holidays with shopping, dining, music, horse-drawn wagon rides

and more! Holiday music from many area schools and churches create a festive atmosphere. Pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a kiddie train ride, pony rides and lots of holiday shopping complete the picture. Be sure to celebrate Downtown on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving each year!

lakeland linder regional airport

LakelandAirport.com (863) 834-3298 With more than 110,000 aviation operations each year, city owned and operated Lakeland Linder Regional Airport (LAL) is one of the busiest contract towers in the country. Situated four miles southwest of the city’s commerce center, LAL provides service to commercial and general aviation aircraft, including approximately 200 business and personal aircraft based at the airport.

During the summer of 2011, LAL began providing non-stop commercial service to select cities in the Northeast and Midwest through Direct Air. Direct Air has built a strong niche service developing secondary markets offering economical, convenient service without the high fares and lengthy travel times at larger airports. Huge potential lies ahead because of Lakeland’s central location in the heart of Florida. This partnership makes LAL a gateway for visitors to our region and a convenient travel option for our local residents. LAL is strategically located between Orlando International Airport in Central Florida and Tampa International Airport on Florida’s west coast. Facilities include a beautiful terminal and ramp, two runways, associated taxiways, offices, rental car agencies, hangar space, on-site parking and a very popular restaurant.

Approaches are available for all aircraft arrivals during inclement weather. Lakeland Linder Regional Airport offers one FBO facility providing services for arriving and departing general aviation aircraft. Direct Air VisitDirectAir.com, (877) 432-DIRECT Restaurants

Earhart’s Runway Grill EarhartsRunwayGrill.com (863) 937-8900 Transportation Services

H & H Transport HandHTransport.net | (863) 859-9711 Maingate Taxi MainGateTaxi.com | (863) 292-9166 2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

healthcare

lakeland is home to some of the most

advanced healthcare facilities &

practitioners in the nation. With resources from cancer care and research to industry leading cardiac care units, Lakeland’s hospitals and clinics provide residents and visitors with a multi-disciplinary approach to health care.

Bartow Regional Medical Center

BartowRegional.com (863) 519-1402 Bartow Regional Medical Center is a 72-bed acute care facility serving south Lakeland, Bartow, Mulberry, Ft. Meade, southwest Winter Haven and south Polk County offering emergency services, inpatient and outpatient surgical services including spine and orthopaedic surgery, cardiac catheterization, wound care/hyperbaric medicine, women’s center, intensive care, progressive care, post-surgical care, rehabilitation services, dialysis and lithotripsy. The hospital also offers a wide variety of diagnostic/ancillary services including CT’s, MRI’s, echocardiography and mammography as well as providing a full-service laboratory, radiology and respiratory care departments.

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

Center for Cancer Care & Research

LakelandCancerTreatment.com (863) 603-4761 The Center for Cancer Care & Research in Lakeland is a state-of-the-art facility and an affiliate of the acclaimed Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, which means that patients gain access to the latest in cutting edge clinical research trials and treatment options. The Center is operated by two of Central Florida’s most respected medical practices – Watson Clinic and Clark & Daughtrey Medical Group – as well as some of the area’s finest independent oncologists. Expert physicians utilize progressive surgical interventions and the latest in radiation therapy and chemotherapy alternatives.

Clark & Daughtrey Medical Group, P.A.

Clark-Daughtrey.com (863) 284-5941 Clark and Daughtrey Medical Group, P. A. (C&D), established in 1949 with two specialties between its founders Dr. Sam Clark & Dr. John Daughtrey. C&D now boasts more than twenty distinct specialties of medicine and is continuing

to expand. The group boasts national accreditation in cardiology, oncology, radiology, sleep lab and clinical laboratory, along with many other outstanding programs. Clark & Daughtrey physicians are board certified/eligible in their respected fields. The independent medical group’s partnership track brings physicians into the group and quickly gives them the option to become a partner.

Lakeland Regional Cancer Center

LRMC.com/Cancer-Center (863) 603-6565 Lakeland Regional Cancer Center, affiliated with Lakeland Regional Medical Center, provides advanced cancer care through clinical research, stateof-the-art diagnostic and treatment services, patient education and support services. The facility houses chemotherapy, radiation, laboratory, medical, surgical, urologic and gynecologic oncology services, as well as a resource library. LRCC physicians are fellowship-trained within their specialty areas and are leaders in advanced treatments and technologies such as sentinel lymph node mapping,

cryosurgery, robotic surgery, mammosite, and IMRT/IGRT. The Cancer Research and Clinical Trials program at LRCC offers patients access to clinical trials, some of which are first offered at LRCC.

Lakeland Regional Medical Center

LRMC.com (863) 687-1100 Founded in 1916, Lakeland Regional Medical Center is one of the largest and most innovative healthcare facilities in Florida. LRMC’s Heart Center is the largest, most experienced and most comprehensive cardiac program in Polk County. It was the area’s first accredited Chest Pain Center. In addition, LRMC’s cardiovascular surgery program has been awarded the 3 Star Rating achieved by only 12% of hospitals in the country. LRMC is also a Joint Commission accredited Primary Stroke Center. Other specialized hospital services include

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Since 1941, Watson Clinic has been Lakeland’s medical provider of choice, delivering compassionate and skilled healthcare services to generations of families. Our commitment to patient care, cutting-edge research and the latest technologies have made us one of the largest and most respected medical clinics in the state.

With more than 200 physicians representing primary care, as well as over 40 additional medical and surgical specialties, Watson Clinic can treat nearly every ailment you’re likely to face in a lifetime. To schedule an appointment with a board-certified specialist at a location convenient to you, please call 863-680-7000.

Watson Clinic is proud to be a member of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce.

Visit us online at www.WatsonClinic.com | Follow us on

emergency care (including the area’s only trauma service), neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, minimally-invasive and robotic surgery, obstetrics, pediatric and neonatal intensive care, as well as general medical and surgical care units.

Watson Clinic LLP

WatsonClinic.com (863) 680-7000 First established in 1941 with only a handful of physicians, Watson Clinic has grown into one of the largest and most respected outpatient medical clinics in the southeast. Today, Watson Clinic’s team includes more than 200 boardcertified physicians practicing in 40 different medical and surgical specialties from 16 convenient locations – including their widely-recognized main campus on Lakeland Hills Boulevard. The Watson Clinic Women’s Center offers the latest in digital mammography and breast surgery services, and the recently opened Bella Vista Building, a three-story, 51,000 square foot facility, houses the specialties of dermatology, otolaryngology/facial plastic surgery and plastic surgery, as well as a hearing center, speech pathology and a deluxe day spa.

spotlight:

lakeland paves the way Lakeland Regional Cancer Center and the Center for Cancer Care & Research have taken leadership roles in the areas of specified cancer research, offering the latest treatment advances through clinical trials. Over the years, LRCC has offered trials for renal cell, fallopian tube, lung, myeloma, pancreatic and many other cancers. They were the first treatment facility in the world to offer various trials for melanoma and prostate cancers.

Looking for a Doctor?

Come See Us: • 65+ medical providers • More than 20 specialties • More services, including a new, full service Radiology Department

• 8 Convenient locations, so we’re easy to find!

284-5941

www.clark-daughtrey.com

Health Care for your whole family! 2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Brilliant minds, advanced technologies, caring hearts. At Lakeland Regional, you’ll find a community of caregivers dedicated to delivering exceptional healthcare. Physicians who bring you knowledge and skill in the latest, most effective treatments. Surgeons and other specialists who give you a greater chance for recovery utilizing state-of-the-art, minimally invasive technologies. And nurses, therapists and technicians who have a big heart for healing. Whether it’s at our 851-bed medical center, highly progressive cancer center, leading specialty surgical practices or the area’s most comprehensive rehabilitation and sports medicine program, Lakeland Regional gives you more options, greater experience, and the highest level of care. All resulting in the best healthcare experiences. To find out more or for a physician referral, call 863-682-LRMC (5762).

Additional Medical Resources Assisted Living & Nursing Homes Arbor Oaks at Lakeland Hills ArborOaksLakelandHills.com (863) 687‑0101 Consulate Health Care (863) 682‑7580 Consulate Health Care of Lakeland ConsulateHC.com (863) 859‑1446 Emeritus at Lakeland AdultCare.net (863) 688‑1126 Grace Manor at Lake Morton LakeMortonRetirementHome.com (863) 937‑9114 Hawthorne Inn (863) 644‑6414 The Manor at Carpenters EACLakeland.com (863) 858‑3847 Palm Terrace of Lakeland CypressHealthcare.net (863) 688‑5612 Savannah Cottage/Memory Care Residences SLM.net (863) 815‑9411 Savannah Court of Lakeland SLM.net/SCLakeland (863) 816‑1155 Southland Suites of Lakeland (863) 701‑7820 Valencia Hills Health & Rehabilitation Center (863) 858‑4402 The Villa at Carpenters EstatesatCarpenters.com (863) 858‑3847 Dentists Agnini Family Dental Center AgniniDental.com (863) 682‑1500 Bopp and Tarver, PLLC LakelandPediatricDentistry.com (863) 644‑2408 D.M.D. TheFamilyDentist‑Lakeland.com (863) 647‑3222

Jones, Wilson, Vallejo Associates, P.A. JWVDental.com (863) 644‑3571 Lakeland Periodontics, Inc. LakelandPerio.com (863) 687‑9227 MidTown Dental MyMidTownDental.com (863) 688‑9001 Kenneth L. Mundy, D.D.S., P.A. KenMundyDDS.com (863) 644‑6418 Parajon Orthodontics/Jorge Parajon DDS, MS, PA ParajonOrtho.com (863) 853‑4985 Robert M. Prisbe, D.D.S. (863) 646‑9668 Trinity Endodontics of Greater Lakeland, P.A. (863) 413‑9773 Craig W. Valentine, D.M.D., P.A. DrCraigValentine.com (863) 646‑8511 Shirin Yasrebi, D.D.S. Dentistry‑Pediatric.com (863) 667‑9000 Vision Care Center For Retina And Macular Disease CRMD.net (863) 297‑5400 Central Florida Eye Associates JayMulaney.com (863) 686‑1010 Eye Express EyeExpress.com (863) 687‑2260 Eye Express EyeExpress.com (863) 619‑2700 Eye Specialists of Mid‑Florida (863) 665‑4515 Family Eye Center South LLC FamilyEyeCtr.com (863) 644‑7773 Hubbell Eye Clinic HubbellEyeClinic.com (863) 688‑6197

Lakeland Eye Clinic LakelandEyeDrs.com (863) 688‑5604 Lakeland Eye Clinic LakelandEyeDrs.com (863) 644‑6455 Lakeland Eye Clinic LakelandEyeDrs.com (863) 858‑2020 Pearle Vision of Lakeland PearleVision.com (863) 413‑0200

Physicians – OB/GYN Simply Women SimplyWomenGyn.com (863) 644‑4496 Women’s Care Florida, Lakeland OB/GYN LakelandOBGyn.com (863) 688‑1528

Physicians The Barranco Clinic BarrancoClinic.com (863) 603‑9676 Clark & Daughtrey Medical Group, P.A. Clark‑Daughtrey.com (863) 284‑5941 Florida Retina Consultants RetinaFlorida.net (863) 682‑7474 Mainsail Medical, Inc. MainsailMedical.com (863) 701‑7188 Nite Owl Urgent Care NiteOwlUrgentCare.com (863) 644‑7337 Options for Women Pregnancy Help Clinic, Inc. OptionsForWomenPHC.com (863) 682‑5763 Premier Care Professionals, Inc. (863) 533‑1100 Rapha Vascular Specialists, Inc. RaphaVascular.com (863) 577‑VEIN Watson Clinic LLP WatsonClinic.com (863) 680‑7000 Physicians – Internal Medicine Central Florida Internal Medicine Associates DrSamKorley.com (863) 533‑2850 Internal Medicine Specialists Medical Group, PA (863) 619‑5999

Physicians – Pediatrics Lakeside Pediatrics/Northside LakesidePeds.com (863) 688‑3550 Lakeside Pediatrics/Southside LakesidePeds.com (863) 619‑8441 Physicians – Urology UroCare (863) 646‑5789 Physicians & Surgeons – Podiatrists Foot and Ankle Associates FloridaFootandAnkle.com (863) 687‑3404 Foot and Ankle Institute of Central Florida FAICF.com (863) 644‑1313 North Lakeland Foot Clinic NorthLakelandFootClinic.com (863) 859‑4434 Physicians & Surgeons – Dermatology Dermatology Assoc of Central Florida, P.A. (863) 686‑2282 North County Dermatology Clinic NCDermClinic.com (863) 853‑3331 Physicians & Surgeons – General Surgery W. A. Magarino, MD, PA (863) 688‑6051 Physicians & Surgeons – Orthopaedic Highland Center for Orthopaedics HighlandOrtho.com (863) 709‑8777

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

employment opportunities

lakeland distinguishes itself as a

business friendly city. Lakeland’s top industries are manufacturing, distribution, healthcare and tourism. Lakeland distinguishes itself as a business friendly city with outstanding quality of life, diverse culture, available skilled workforce and low labor costs. In addition, our location along the Interstate 4 corridor between Tampa and Orlando, access to a variety of colleges and universities within our city, close proximity to ports and two international airports and the cost of doing business, make Lakeland a great place to live and work. Lakeland’s location between Tampa and Orlando makes it an ideal location for manufacturing and distribution. The Lakeland market 26

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

absorbs more than one million square feet of manufacturing/warehouse space annually, with more than 30 million square feet in the entire market. Founded in 1930, Publix Super Markets is Lakeland’s largest employer with more than 9,000 employees in Polk County. The company is privately owned and operated by its 149,500 employees, with 2010 sales of $25.1 billion. The company has consistently been named one of FORTUNE’s “100 Best Companies to Work For in America.” Publix Lakeland facilities include numerous super markets, manufacturing facilities

Employment – Executive Search SHR Human Resources, LLC SHRLLC.com | (863) 712‑7360

Employment – Medical Staffing Pro Med Healthcare Services, LLC PromedHS.com | (863) 669‑0440

Employment Contractors 1st Priority Staffing LLC 1stPriorityStaffing.com | (863) 937‑9170 Action Professional Recruiters, Inc. ApplyAction.com | (863) 603‑7823

(bakery, dairy, deli), distribution and cold storage facilities, as well as their 320,000 square foot corporate headquarters. Publix recently broke ground on a 562,000 square foot expansion of their current 550,000 square foot warehouse off County Line Road used to store dry goods. Each year more than 1.5 million visitors travel through Polk County, spending nearly $966 million in revenue and employing 16,000 residents. The Detroit Tigers spring training camp accounts for $33 million in revenue. Because tourism is such an important industry to Lakeland, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce, City of Lakeland and Central Florida Visitors & Convention Bureau work both independently and in unison on various marketing efforts to keep this industry alive and well. A growing sector of Lakeland’s economy is healthcare. Major healthcare employers include Lakeland Regional Medical Center (the 5th largest hospital in the state of Florida, housing 851 beds), Watson Clinic (one of the state’s largest medical clinics with more 1,500 employees and 200 plus doctors), Clark & Daughtrey Medical Group and two cancer centers, the Center for Cancer Care & Research and the Lakeland Regional Cancer Center.

In 2011, the Lakeland Regional Cancer Center completed a 27,000 square foot expansion of their campus, with the addition of 26 exam rooms, a special procedure room, cystology room and an endoscopy suite will bring the total square footage to 63,755. Other major healthcare industry employers include Stryker Sustainability Solutions, a medical reprocessing manufacturer, WellDyneRx, a pharmacy benefits management company and pharmaceutical distributors McKesson and Cardinal. Lakeland’s major employers include GEICO, GC Services, Lockheed Martin, JBT FoodTech, Carpenter Company, Marriott Vacation Club International, Saddle Creek Corporation, Summit Consulting, Flowers Foods, Pepperidge Farm, Tampa Maid Foods, Advance Discount Auto Parts, Key Safety Systems, The Ledger, Sykes, Rooms To Go, City of Lakeland, and Polk County Public Schools. Polk County’s agriculture sector continues to be a staple of our economy with more than 626,634 acres of agricultural lands, and agribusiness and food manufacturing companies that output more than $8 billion in annual sales and contribute more than 62,000 jobs to Polk’s economy.

Alternative Business Solutions | (863) 666‑6948 Diversified Sourcing Solutions DiversifiedSourcingSolutions.com (863) 686‑5356 Labor Ready, Inc. LaborReady.com | (863) 686‑1500 Manpower, Inc. Manpower.com | (863) 665‑2455 MDT Personnel MDTPersonnel.com | (813) 394‑6928 Rita Staffing, Inc. RitaStaffing.com | (863) 646‑5021 Spartan Staffing SpartanStaffing.com | (863) 686‑7614 Specialized Labor Services | (813) 754‑4664 Spherion Spherion.com | (863) 667‑0800

Employment Search Agency/Permanent Rita Staffing, Inc. RitaStaffing.com | (863) 646‑5021

Employment Services Accountemps AccounTemps.com | (813) 623‑6832 Polk Works One‑Stop Center PolkWorks.org | (863) 508‑1100

Employment Training & Career Services Leap Ahead Professional Development, LLC LeapAheadToday.com | (863) 607‑3090 Polk Works ‑ Workforce Development Board PolkWorks.org | (863) 508‑1600 Polk Works WorkForce 2020 PolkWorks.org | (863) 508‑1600

Employment/Temporary Staffing PHR Staffing Solutions PHRServices.com | (863) 682‑1749 2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CPSBuyersGuideAdFinal:Layout 1

9/12/11

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LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

learning & education

With modern & creative outreach is impressive. OPTIONS, LAKELAND ’S ACADEMIC

With options that appeal to every learning style, Lakeland’s education and learning options are welcoming to students of all abilities and generations.

Polk County Schools

Polk-FL.net (863) 534-0698 With an enrollment of nearly 93,000 students, the school district of Polk County is the eighth largest in Florida and the thirty-first largest in the United States. The district has 160 school sites including 66

elementary schools, 19 middle schools and 17 high schools. Also included are charter schools, career centers, adult schools, alternative schools and pre-kindergarten sites. The district is the largest employer in Polk County with more than 12,000 employees. The school district’s percentage of core content courses taught by teachers classified by the federal government as “highly qualified” is 96.4 percent.

In 2010-2011, community involvement to the district consisted of more than 26,000 volunteers performing more than 800,000 hours of service. Students provided more than 120,000 hours of service to the community through service projects linking curriculum to community needs. The Polk Education Foundation awards more than $600,000 in scholarships to Polk students annually. More than 2,500 local businesses and organizations partner with Polk County Public Schools in programs and projects.

Polk County Public Schools has a strong commitment to optimizing partnerships. 2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

tom hagerty/lakeland local

Education Early Learning Coalition of Polk County ELCPolk.org | (863) 733‑9064 Florida Virtual School (407) 484‑4031 Huntington Learning Center HuntingtonLearning.com | (863) 701‑9200 Huntington Learning Center HuntingtonLearning.com | (863) 858‑3600 Learning Resource Center of Polk County, Inc. LRCPolk.com | (863) 688‑9477 Polk County Public Schools Polk‑FL.net | (863) 534‑0698 Polk County School Board ‑ Elementary Department Polk‑FL.net | (863) 534‑0642 SUN ‘n FUN, Inc. Sun‑n‑Fun.org | (863) 644‑2431 Sylvan Learning Center Educate.com | (863) 647‑1922 Sylvan Learning Center Educate.com | (863) 859‑0209 West Area Adult School WestAreaAdult.com | (863) 499‑2835 Schools – Alternative/Technical/ Vocational Florida Technical College FTCCollege.edu | (863) 619‑620 Fortis Institute Fortis.edu | (863) 646‑1400 Pace Center for Girls, Inc. PaceCenter.org | (863) 688‑5596 Traviss Career Center Traviss.edu | (863) 499‑2700 Schools – Charter/Choice/Magnet Achievement Academy AchievementAcademy.com | (863) 683‑6504 Rosabelle Wilson Blake Academy BlakeAcademy.com | (863) 499‑2870 Harrison Center for Visual & Performing Arts HarrisonArts.com | (863) 499‑2855

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

Lawton Chiles Middle Academy LCMAKnightsOnline.com | (863) 499‑2742 Lincoln Avenue Academy Schools.Polk-FL.net/laa | (863) 499‑2955 McKeel Academy of Technology McKeelAcademy.com | (863) 499‑2818 McKeel Elementary Academy McKeelElementary.com | (863) 499‑1287 Schools – Colleges/Universities Everest University CCI.edu | (863) 686‑1444 Florida Southern College FLSouthern.edu | (863) 680‑4111 Keiser University KeiserUniversity.edu | (863) 682‑6020 Polk State College/Lakeland Campus Polk.edu | (863) 297‑1000 Polk State College/Winter Haven Campus Polk.edu | (863) 297‑1098 Southeastern University SEU.edu | (863) 667‑5000 Southeastern University College of Business and Legal Studies SEU.edu | (863) 667‑5402 University of South Florida Polytechnic Poly.USF.edu | (863) 667‑7013 Warner University Warner.edu | (863) 638‑7683 Webster University Webster.edu/lakeland | (863) 687‑9309 Schools – K‑12 Private All Saints’ Academy AllSaintsAcademy.com | (863) 293‑5980 Geneva Classical Academy, Inc. GenevaClassicalAcademy.com (863) 644‑1408 Lakeland Christian School, Inc. LCSonline.org | (863) 688‑2771 The Monarch School, Inc. TheMonarchSchool.org | (863) 680‑1290

St. Anthony Catholic School Schools.Polk.net/St.Anthony (863) 858‑0671 St. Joseph’s Academy StJoeLakeland.org | (863) 686‑6415 St. Paul Lutheran School SPLSLakeland.org | (863) 644‑7710 Santa Fe Catholic High School SantaFeCatholic.org | (863) 665‑4188 Schools – K‑12 Public Central Florida Aerospace Academy ‑ Polk County School Board PolkAcademies.com | (863) 698‑9512 Crystal Lake Middle School Schools.Polk‑FL.net/clms | (863) 499‑2970 George Jenkins High School Schools.Polk-FL.net/GJHS | (863) 648‑3566 Kathleen High School Schools.Polk-FL.net/khs | (863) 499‑2655 Lake Gibson High School LakeGibsonHighSchool.com | (863) 853‑6100 Lakeland Electric Power Academy (863) 614‑9183 Lakeland High School LakelandHighSchool.com | (863) 499‑2900 Padgett Elementary School Schools.Polk‑FL.net/Padgett | (863) 853‑6044 R. Bruce Wagner Elementary School Schools.Polk‑FL.net/rbw | (863) 701‑1450 Scott Lake Elementary School (863) 648‑3520 Southwest Middle School (863) 499‑2840 Winston Elementary School Schools.Polk-FL.net/Winston | (863) 499‑2890 Schools – Pre‑Schools Kids World Enrichment Center KidsWorldEnrichmentCenter.com (863) 686‑5783 St. Luke’s Ministries, Inc. St.LukesMinistries.org | (863) 686‑7455

Public Library

Lakeland Public Library 100 Lake Morton Dr (863) 834-4271 Hours: Mon-Thurs 9am-9pm Fri - Sat 9am-5pm Sunday 1:30pm-5pm

Larry R. Jackson Branch 1700 N Florida Ave (863) 834-4288 Hours: Mon,Tue, Thurs 9am-8pm Wed, Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-5pm

elibrary South Lakeland Lakeland, FL 33813 (863) 838-4507 Hours: Mon-Thur 9am-6pm Friday 9am-5pm Sat 10am-2pm

Polk County residents can obtain a library card free of charge with proof of residency. Your library card can be used throughout the county at all public libraries and reciprocal borrowing privileges apply to many neighboring counties such as Pinellas, Lake and Osceola. To learn more about the libraries in Lakeland and the services offered, access the web site at www.LakelandGov.net/library.

The Fields Family of Luxury Fields BMW Mercedes-Benz Volkswagen Fields Motorcars 325 S. Lake Parker Ave. Fields VW Lakeland 209 S. Lake Parker Ave. Fields BMW Lakeland 4285 Lakeland Park Dr. I-4 at exit 33 Or visit us online at fieldsauto.com For information call: 888-651-4823

FIELDS MATTERS BECAUSE YOU MATTER

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

out on the town

Shopping,

dining & nightlife

abound when you’re

out on the town.

Locate specific shops and eateries in the Chamber’s Business Directory at LakelandChamber.com.

Lakeland Square Mall

LakelandSquare.com (863) 859-5411 Lakeland Square Mall has exciting shops including Cotton On, rue21, 5-7-9, Rainbow, Hollister, Zumiez, American Eagle, Tilly’s and Old Navy. Lakeland Square Mall also features Dillard’s, Macy’s, JC Penney, Burlington Coat Factory and Sears. Additionally,

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

tom hagerty/lakeland local

a kid’s play area is located in front of Hollister and Children’s Place along with Kiddie Kruzzers available at each mall entrance.

Lakeside Village

ShopLakesideVillage.net (863) 616-9360 Lakeside Village is a dynamic lifestyle complex that combines retail, hospitality, entertainment and office space. Located in Lakeland’s upscale Grasslands area, its beautifully landscaped courtyards and streets invite you to stroll, shop and enjoy. Some of the retail shops that you will find at Lakeside Village include Belk, Kohl’s, Books-A-Million, GameStop and Chico’s. Join us for a movie at Cobb Theatres or choose from a good selection of restaurants including Chili’s, Longhorn Steakhouse, Mimi’s Café and Coldstone Creamery.

ride or not. The fact is that an affordable, working mass transportation system is important to local commerce, life and progress. It gets people to work, medical appointments, shopping and recreation, it makes our communities safer and saves valuable resources – and all of that adds up to a boost in our area’s quality of life. Service is available Monday through Saturday in frequencies of 30 and 60 minutes. Direct connections can also be made to the neighboring communities of Bartow, Winter Haven and Auburndale.

H & H Transport HandHTransport.net | (863) 859-9711 MainGate Taxi MainGateTaxi.com | (863) 292-9166

Getting Around

Citrus Connection

RideCitrus.com (863) 688-RIDE The public transit service provided by the Citrus Connection has something to offer everyone in our area, whether you

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

a true sense of place

lakeland continues to grow, develop

and be sought-after. Lakeland continues to grow, develop and become one of the most sought after places to live in the state. Employment opportunities are constantly emerging; major retailers are becoming major anchors in new retail centers and national & international performances headline performing arts venues. Lakeland takes pride in our community and has its own identity. Retaining the charm of a small town, Lakeland is made up of

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2012

great people – people from all walks of life and from all age groups. Simply put, these people are proud to call Lakeland home and you will be too! Living in Lakeland

Numerous options are available to those looking for homes and accommodations in Lakeland and the surrounding area. Homes and neighborhoods matching a wide spectrum of needs for individuals and families alike exist in our bustling

community. Selections include waterfront property, historic homes, custom-designed homes, golf course communities, modern condominiums, rental apartments and country estates with all amenities included. Whether you’re looking for that community you never have to leave, a home close to downtown in an eclectic or historic neighborhood or something on the water, Lakeland has a home to offer you.

Home Builders Adams Homes of Northwest Florida, Inc. AdamsHomes.com | (863) 619-8120 Florida Lifestyle Communities FLCToday.com | (863) 646-2904 Hickman Homes, Inc. HickmanHomes.net | (863) 646-1166 Highland Homes HighlandHomes.org | (863) 619-7103 Hunt Construction of Central Florida, Inc. (863) 647-2023 KB Home KBHome.com | (407) 587-3400 Mark Brown Construction, Inc. (863) 646-0511 Maronda Homes - Polk County Maronda.com | (813) 671-5340 Southern Homes of Polk County, Inc. MySouthernHome.com | (863) 687-2700 Thurn Construction, Inc. (863) 533-2840 Webb Home Builders Group, Inc. WebHBG.com | (863) 354-0004

Apartments Alexan at Lakeside Village AlexanAtLakesideVillage.com (863) 499-0004 Arbor Glen ArborGlenLakeland.com | (863) 393-0000 Audubon Oaks, Ltd. AudubonOaks.com | (863) 853-9900 Carlton Arms of Lakeland CarltonArmsOfLakeland.com (863) 648-0666 Carlton Arms of North Lakeland CarltonArmsOfNorthLakeland.com (863) 853-4900 Huntington At Sundance Apartments Gables.com | (863) 648-4400 Lake Mirror Tower Apartments Pinnacleams.com/lakemirrortower (863) 688-9991 Lakeview Place (Senior Apartments) (863) 687-3401

Lakewood Terrace Apartment Homes (863) 683-6428 LeMans Apartment Suites LeMansSuites.com | (863) 647-2929 Lohr Enterprises (863) 688-3407 Madison at Lake Gibson (863) 859-5553 Mahalo Management, Inc. (863) 644-1881 Parke 33 Apartment Homes MidwestRents.com | (863) 686-3600 Peppertree Village Apartments NPMA.ws | (863) 646-5069 Sterling Place (Senior Apartments) UnitedChurchHomes.org | (863) 859-7856 Victoria Manor Apartments, LLC VictoriaManorApts.com | (863) 682-1300 Village at Lake Highland VillageApt.com | (863) 701-7101

Real Estate The Agency, Inc. Realty & Investment Services The-Agency-Inc.com | (863) 686-7080 Ardis Limited, Inc. ArdisLimited.mfr.mlxchange.com (863) 683-4565 Jan Bellamy, Broker/Owner JanBellamyTeam.com | (863) 802-5262 Brooks Chandler Realty, LLC BrooksChandler.com | (863) 644-4601 George R. Burt, Lic. Real Estate Broker (863) 688-2212 Coldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate, LLC SaundersRealEstate.com | (863) 648-1528 Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Inc. FloridaMoves.com | (863) 687-2233 Drummond Company, Inc. Oakbridge.com | (863) 647-1100 Easy Homes 123, LLC EasyHomes123.com | (863) 686-7489 Gene Engle, Realtor (863) 688-3009

English Family Residential Properties, LLC (863) 858-4737 Gator Realty of Polk GatorRealtyOfPolk.com | (863) 687-4663 Keller Williams Realty of Polk KW.com | (863) 577-1234 C. L. ‘Jimmy’ Lawhon, Real Est. (863) 682-4111 MIDFLORIDA Real Estate Sales, LLC MidfloridaSales.com | (863) 667-0021 My New House Realty MyNewHouseRealty.com | (863) 838-1441 Pickard & Pickard Inc.REALTORS (863) 688-7623 RE/MAX Paramount Properties PolkCountyHomes.com | (863) 680-3322 Realty World Homes of Distinction RealtyWorldCentralFlorida.com (863) 701-2350 Stille Real Estate (863) 687-4052 Mary Ann Touchton, CRS, Realtor FloridaHomesByMaryAnnTouchton.com (863) 577-1234 Ulysses Realty Group, Inc. UlyssesRealtyGroup.com | (863) 614-3565 Walter - William Investment Co. (863) 647-5123 Chuck Warnock - Realtor - Developer (863) 683-5050

Property Management All County Polk Property Management AllCountyPolk.com | (863) 510‑5965 Durham & Associates dba WillowBrooke & Oakbridge Props. (863) 647‑2338 Lakeland Properties & Management, Inc. LakelandProperties.org | (863) 665‑8575 Native Palm Properties NativePalmOnline.com | (863) 647‑1679 Vantage Property Management, LLC Vantage‑Properties.com | (863) 412‑8136 Your Rental Connection, Inc. YRCRents.com | (863) 701‑8000

2012

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

tom hagerty/lakeland local

Veterinarians All Creatures Animal Clinic AllCreaturesFL.com | (863) 646-5683 Care Animal Clinic CareAnimalClinicFL.com (863) 665-2000 Cleveland Heights Animal Hospital PetHospital.com | (863) 646-2995 Edgewood Animal Clinic (863) 688-8301 My Pet’s Animal Hospital FloridaVet.com | (863) 646-3669 Northside Animal Clinic (863) 858-6044 Parkway Veterinary Emergency Clinic ParkwayPetER.com | (863) 665-3199 Polk County Animal Hospital PolkCountyAnimalHospital.com (863) 858-2252

critter spotlight:

Santa Fe Animal Hospital SF-AH.com | (863) 665-5033 Thompson Animal Hospital ThompsonAnimalHospital.com (863) 648-3545 Veterinary Healthcare Associates VHAVets.com | (863) 324-3340

Pet Adoptions S.P.C.A., Inc. LoveMySPCA.com | (863) 646-4607

Pet Crematory Heath Funeral Chapel HeathFuneralChapel.com (863) 682-0111

Four Paws Only FourPawsOnlyFL.com | (863) 667-3113 Mutt ‘n Fancee Mobile Grooming Salon (863) 838-6886

Pet Sitting Service Promise Pet Care, LLC PromisePetCare.com | (863) 450-4770

Specialty Pet Shops Benson’s Canine Cookies BensonsCanineCookies.com (863) 688-9249 The Doggie Bag, Inc. TheDoggieBagBoutique.com (863) 683-6220

Pet Boarding & Grooming Doggie Styles Mobile Grooming, LLC JoelsDoggieStyles.com (863) 535-5169

diOGi PARK 500 W Carter Road Located on three fenced acres within Loyce E. Harpe Park, DiOGi Park is the first dog park in the County. Dedicated in memory and tribute to fallen Polk County Deputy Sheriff Vernon “Matt”

Williams and his K-9 partner DiOGi, the park features separate play areas for large and small dogs, each with fire hydrants, agility training equipment and shaded picnic shelters for owners.