June 2014 Forum for Business

JUNE 2014 | VOL. XXIII, NO. 6

BUY LAKELAND. IT MAKES GOOD CENTS!

FORUM FOR BUSINESS LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

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CH A M BER STAFF K AT H L E E N L . M U N S O N President

KMUNSON@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

BARBARA BENNETT Executive Assistant

BBENNETT@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

SARAH BREED

Administrative Assistant, Member Relations | Public Affairs

SBREED@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

S A L LY C H A P M A N

Vice President, Finance & Administration

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S M O N T H LY TIMOTHY B. JACKSON | CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD NUJAK COMPANIES

K AT H L E E N L . M U N S O N | P U B L I S H E R LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SCHAPMAN@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

C A R O LY N J A C K S O N

Senior Vice President, Member Relations

CJACKSON@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

JACQUELINE L. JOHNSON

Senior Vice President, Convention & Visitors Bureau

JACKIEJ@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

AMY S. WIGGINS | EDITOR LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

N I C E B R A N D I N G A G E N C Y | C R E AT I V E D I R E C T I O N , P R O D U C T I O N & P H O T O G R A P H Y WWW.BRANDNICELY.COM

Bus NESS&bre kfast

K AT I E M C B R I D E Membership Consultant

KMCBRIDE@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

NIKKI OAKLEY

Membership Account Executive

NOAKLEY@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

TERRY OTTINGER

Vice President, Membership Development

TOTTINGER@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

RICH ROY

Vice President, Public Affairs

RROY@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

“One-Page Business Plan”

Presented by Dick Pellegrini, Pilgrim Associates | SCORE Counselor

Is your business plan concise enough to review each month? Join us as we learn the value of creating a simple plan and examining that plan often.

June 12 | 7:30 a.m. $5 Members $15 Guests lkld.cc/bandbjune12

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1001 Carpenters Way

KARA SIMM

Administrative Assistant, Membership Development | Communications

KSIMM@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

PAT T Y S M I T H

Administrative Assistant, Convention & Visitors Bureau

PSMITH@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

AMY WIGGINS

Vice President, Communications

AWIGGINS@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

35 LAKE MORTON DRIVE PO BOX 3607 LAKELAND, FL 33802-3607 (863) 688-8551 LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM © 2014 Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. The Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to refuse certain advertising and is not liable for advertisers claims and/or errors. The opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent the position of the Chamber.

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exper i e nc e e me r g e

WILL LINK CHAIR

CONNECT ] EMERGELakeland.com

There once was a master carpenter who, for many years, worked exclusively for the same builder. When the time came for the carpenter to announce his retirement, the builder asked the carpenter to stay on for one final job.

The builder owned a magnificent tract of land full of spectacular views and he wanted to build a dream home.

The carpenter was not excited about the prospect of delaying his retirement, but he knew the job would give him the extra money necessary to live out his days comfortably. So, he agreed to complete this one final job.

The carpenter’s resentment of the builder for delaying his

retirement distracted the carpenter and caused the carpenter to cut corners, ignore details, and accept less-than-quality workmanship.

When the time came to turn over the keys of the new house to the builder, the carpenter was caught off guard.

The builder refused the keys and instead handed the carpenter an envelope. Inside the envelope was a note thanking the carpenter for so many years of loyal service and friendship. Attached to the note was the deed to the property. The carpenter had been building his own home.

How differently would the carpenter have conducted himself if he

had only known what he was doing?

We, as members of the Lakeland community, are carpenters. Our community decision makers are the builders of the story. Lakeland, itself, is the home we will receive (and, in fact, have already received and continue to receive on a daily basis).

I’m spending my time as chair of EMERGE Lakeland encouraging young professionals to make our home, Lakeland, a dream home. Whether we know it or not, the decisions we make (both professionally and personally), determine the type of home we will build. So, don’t allow yourself to be distracted,

preoccupied, or cynical.

Instead, become educated, offer yourself, and give back.

EMERGE Lakeland assists young professionals in the “building” of our home in many ways. I’d like to share a few.

In just a few days, on June 17, EMERGE will “inspect building plans” through a visit to Catapult Lakeland and engage in a conversation about the local economy with a representative of the Lakeland Economic Development Council.

This experience will provide our members with an inside look at what is coming to our community in the near future.

Later this year we will help “fortify the

foundation” through volunteer projects with the Salvation Army and other worthy causes.

Hands on activities aimed at helping those who cannot help themselves fortifies our home’s foundation.

Finally, EMERGE “strengthens the neighborhood” through social opportunities.

That’s right, EMERGE sets aside time for its members to just hang out in order to build friendships that go beyond the organization.

Sometimes a house doesn’t feel like a home until it is filled with friends and family.

I invite you to join us in this construction project. Help us build Lakeland into a dream home.

n a c k e e w a One night

E F I L R U O Y E HC ANG

land

u/lake d e r. te s b e w • 9 3-687-930 6 8 2 0 2 e it u S , r Drive 1479 Town Cente

Webster University educates professionals in the Lakeland area through our accredited master’s degree programs. Classes are taught by academically qualified faculty who are practitioners in their fields. The classes are the right size for learning and the perfect place for networking. Apply today!

For a complete program listing go to webster.edu/lakeland No GRE/GMAT • Classes one night a week Webster University, founded in 1915 with its home campus based in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, is the only Tier 1, private, nonprofit university with campus locations around the world including metropolitan, military, online and corporate, as well as American-style traditional campuses in North America, Europe and Asia.

4 EC-2476 | F O R UGeneric.indd M F O R B1 U S I N E S S

Be a part of what’s next.

8/13/13 8:33 AM

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A M O N T H LY

There are many options when it comes to organization and storage of important documents.

Start with figuring out what is integral to your business.

DAWN DECAMINADA SMALL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE CENTER

> D OES YOUR BUSINESS DEAL WITH KEEPING IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS ORGANIZED AND STORED

PERSONAL OR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION?

> D O YOU NEED REMOTE ACCESS TO YOUR FILES?

> D OES YOUR BUSINESS REQUIRE YOU TO KEEP A HARDCOPY OF YOUR DOCUMENTS?

PROPERLY IS A KEY STRATEGY FOR MANAGING A SMALL BUSINESS OWNER’S MOST IMPORTANT ASSET… TIME. MORE OFTEN THAN NOT IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

IMPLEMENT A PROCESS OF ORGANIZATION. If documents do not have to be filed immediately make sure there is a designated and secure area for documents “waiting to be filed”. Set aside time each week to manage those files.

HAVE A WIDE RANGE OF OPTIONS TO

THE SHUFFLE.

SECURELY STORE THEIR DOCUMENTS.

THAT IS WHY

UNFORTUNATELY THERE IS NOT A

IT IS CRITICAL

“ONE SIZE FITS ALL” SOLUTION FOR

TO ESTABLISH ORGANIZATION AND STORAGE FOR YOUR

CONNECT ]

SMALL BUSINESS.

CFDC.org/SBAC 6 | FORUM FOR BUSINESS

If you cannot house a server onsite to back up your files there are some inexpensive options. If you need to keep sensitive files safe and secure locally you can invest in an external hard drive to back up your computer files. However, an external hard drive can be damaged and information could be lost. There are several companies online that offer safe storage to backup your files, but you want to make sure to vet all companies prior to handing over sensitive documents.

If confidentiality isn’t a necessity but you need a system to access documents there are several inexpensive choices. Both Google and Yahoo offer a document storage option for businesses.

Applications such as Dropbox, Skydrive and other cloud based services offer an easy way to access documents on the go.

SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS TODAY

GET LOST IN

A SYSTEM OF

THIS NEXT STEP IS WHERE THE SECURITY AND ACCESSIBILITY OF DOCUMENTS COMES INTO PLAY.

DETERMINE HOW YOU NEED TO STORE YOUR FILES. If you need to save a hardcopy of your files onsite investing in a fireproof filing cabinet is a must.

Back up each file by scanning it and saving it on your computer. Make sure that the scanned copy and the hard copy have the same file name for future accessibility. Archived hardcopies can be moved offsite to a storage facility.

ALL BUSINESSES. THE GOOD NEWS IS AS TECHNOLOGY CHANGES SO DO THE SERVICES AVAILABLE TO BUSINESS OWNERS. SO NO MATTER WHAT THE SIZE OF YOUR COMPANY OR YOUR BUDGET THERE IS A SOLUTION TO YOUR NEEDS.

Leade r s hip L a k e l a n d A lum n i A ssociat ion

SAM CROSBY

PRESIDENT Leadership Lakeland Alumni Association

CONNECT ] LeadershipLakeland Alum.com

Leadership Lakeland Alumni Association’s newest project is WOW (Worthy Outreach Work). The purpose of the project is threefold: 1) to encourage any alumnus to get involved by nominating a nonprofit organization and its specified need or project, 2) to utilize the expertise, manpower and funding assistance of the alumni association to support the need or project of the non-profit and 3) to encourage LLAA members and the community to support the project with a contribution of their time or financial support. The first WOW applications were due April 1 and 15 organizations in our community submitted projects for consideration.

With so many worthy organizations and projects in our community, selecting just one recipient was no easy task. The alumni association’s advisory board, comprised of past presidents of the organization, was given the responsibility of making the selection.

This team of community leaders used several criteria in the selection process. Scope of community outreach, as well as time and financial commitment were considered. One of the most important factors was the project’s alignment with LLAA’s mission statement: “to provide extraordinary learning experiences, inspire community participation and leadership and cultivate and invigorate leaders in Lakeland.”

The first recipient

of Leadership Lakeland Alumni Association’s WOW program is the Lakeland PACE Center for Girls, Inc. PACE’s mission is to provide girls and young women an opportunity for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy.

PACE works with girls and young women ages 12 to 18 years of age.

The Center provides a gender-responsive, nonresidential delinquency prevention and early intervention model targeting the unique needs of young females who are identified as dependent, truant, runaway, delinquent or in need of academic skills. PACE’s core program offers three key components education, counseling

and career-vocational focus on the future. The majority of students have suffered trauma in their lives and it has impacted their ability to be successful in their home, school and community. At PACE, girls find a supportive environment that many of them have not had for a very long time, or perhaps never have had in their lives.

The greatest need at PACE currently is technology and Nexus Tablets. Through the WOW Program, the Leadership Lakeland Alumni Association will be providing financial assistance to purchase Nexus Tablets for the girls to use at the Center.

Each tablet will teach the girls technology

skills not available to them at home. From downloading books, to dissecting frogs, these tablets will assist in science, math, reading and social studies. The tablets will be used throughout the school to motivate, enhance and encourage the girls to learn and explore the world through technology. The first 10 tablets have been purchased for the students through a grant from the Lakeland Chamber Foundation.

The center’s goal is 45 – one for each student to use daily.

The Leadership Lakeland Alumni Association presented the PACE Center a check for $2,000 at its annual Class reception on May 9 for the

purchase of additional tablets and protective covers. More tablets are needed and it is up to alumni and community members to support the association and make a difference. To assist in this worthy outreach work (WOW) with your contribution go to the PACE center’s website http://www. pacecenter.org/supportpace/donate and make a donation….. Send a check of any amount to PACE Center for Girls with tablet in the memo.

LLAA’s WOW (Worthy Outreach Work) program is just beginning. The next applications are due September 1 and will be announced at the organization’s annual meeting in January of 2015.

Lakeland & Bartow Offices www.moodylaw.com FORUM FOR BUSINESS | 7

JASON HEACOCK

C. SCOTT FRANKLIN, CPCU, ARM

KENT LONGO

HEACOCK INSURANCE

LANIER UPSHAW, INC.

MULLING INSURANCE

LanierUpshaw.com

MullingInsurance.com

CYBER LIABILITY

EMPLOYMENT PRACTICE LIABILITY INSURANCE

Heacock.com

EMPLOYEE DISHONESTY INSURANCE It’s alarming how frequently we read about an employee who is caught stealing from their employer.

Many times the guilty party is a trusted, long time employee who no one would ever suspect of stealing.

These are usually crimes of opportunity involving first time offenders. Unfortunately, employee dishonesty crimes can go undetected for a long time and may result in very large losses.

One of the most significant emerging risks for businesses and one that is often misunderstood is Cyber Liability. While everyone is familiar with highprofile computer security breaches such as the one Target experienced during the holidays, few small to medium sized businesses fully appreciate the threat they face and the staggering cost of settling claims that are not covered by their general liability policies.

Most business insurance policies do not automatically include coverage for employee dishonesty. If they do, it’s often for low limits such as $5,000 or $10,000.

Additional Employee Dishonesty coverage is usually available at a reasonable price. For instance $25,000 of coverage for most business categories costs less than $200/year. Employee Dishonesty coverage is frequently added to a business insurance policy by endorsement and provides coverage for employees stealing money or merchandise from your business. Some businesses, such as a janitorial company, may need an Employee Dishonesty Bond which provides coverage for theft by your employees from your customer’s premises.

Between 2009 and 2013, the number of reported data breaches quadrupled. Even if nothing malicious materializes in the wake of a breach, companies are still required to submit extensive notification paperwork to both the government and to customers, as well as provide free credit monitoring for those whose records have been violated. At an average cost of $208 per compromised record (with some estimates as high as $1,008 per record), the cost to a business can quickly reach several hundred thousand dollars.

Keep in mind that most insurance companies will want an agreement to prosecute the employee before paying a claim. This can be a very difficult decision, especially when the guilty party is that long time, trusted employee.

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Business Owners are missing out on a much needed coverage titled Employment Practice Liability Insurance (EPLI). This policy covers employmentrelated claims like discrimination, sexual or workplace harassment, abusive or hostile work environment (retaliation), breach of implied employment contract, wrongful termination and even some American with Disabilities Act violations.

The awards or settlements on these types of claims can be in the hundreds of thousands depending on the type of claim and duration of the wrongful act.

One example is a female truck driver alleged that she was subjected to a hostile work environment, which included pornographic magazines around the plant, and she was fired in retaliation for complaining about the harassment. The jury awarded her more than $224,000.

There are, of course, fraudulent claims brought on by employees. The employers, however, have to defend themselves. The average defense of these claims easily climbs into the tens of thousands—and that is before even going to court.

Business owners can think of this as prepaid legal. If they do not have this coverage now, they should get something even if it is the minimum. Most policies are based on number of employees and industry type.

DON WESTERFELD

COURTNEY PAAT

BOB ETTENSOHN

LOCK INSURANCE

COURTNEY PAAT/ STATE FARM AGENT

THE ETTENSOHN AGENCY INC./ ALLSTATE

PaatInsurance.com

Ettensohn.com

PERSONAL AND COMMERCIAL LIABILITY UMBRELLA POLICIES.

EMPLOYER NON-OWNED AUTO

LockInsurance.com EQUIPMENT FLOATER COVERAGE General Liability Insurance covers many things but one thing it doesn’t cover is your equipment. Many small business owners believe that equipment is covered as part of General Liability Coverage (GL). But, without Equipment Floater coverage, this is not the case.

Mobile property is uniquely exposed to perils of transit and theft. Equipment Floater insurance covers some of the risks associated with mobile property.

Let’s look at a lawn service for example. A typical day involves transporting expensive equipment from the business location to the service location... a client’s home or office. If the lawn service owner steps inside to greet his or her client and the lawn mower disappears, the cost to replace that equipment comes as a high price to the lawn service.

But it’s not just lawn services or construction companies that are at risk. Consider photographers, musicians and production companies and the expensive and technical gear that travels with them.

Adding Equipment Floater coverage to a General Liability policy covers equipment from theft, certain damage and many other named perils as listed on the policy.

An insurance coverage that many business owners miss? Personal and Commercial Liability Umbrella policies.

Many business owners are so involved with the growing and managing of their businesses, they don’t make the time to make sure their own house is in order and protected. Liability Umbrella policies protect a business owner’s personal and business assets in the event of a liability claim and potential lawsuit. If a client was to get hurt at their business or home, the business owner is risking losing the business and/or considerable assets if not properly protected. Coverage under an Umbrella policy typically starts at $1 million and is an important piece of a business owner’s financial plan.

As a small business owner, have you ever sent an employee on an errand? Maybe you needed office supplies, a deposit made at the bank or even food picked up for a meeting. Did you realize that YOUR financial future is riding with that employee?

If you, as the employer, have directed the employee to drive their personal automobile on behalf of you, you are then liable for any injuries or damage that they may cause. You may think that their personal auto policy will cover them and protect you in event that an accident occurs. However, most personal auto policies have specific exclusions for business use.

If a serious accident causing serious injury or death occurs, you and your business could be responsible for hundreds of thousands of dollars.

So, how do you protect yourself? The good news is that a coverage called Employer Non-Owned Auto is available! You can add it to your Commercial Auto Policy. It doesn’t cost a lot but it is well worth it. Don’t have a Commercial Auto Policy? Most insurers will allow you to add it to your General Liability or Business Owners Policy (BOP.)

Many companies will add this coverage as an endorsement to General Liability policy for less than $100 per year. For other companies, a standalone Equipment Floater Policy is required but still valuable compared to the cost of equipment replacement.

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L UAU D ow nt o w n & K i n g o f t h e Win g Con t e st

Bernie Little Distributing Cottrell Signs Republic Services Signs & Specialties Southside Package & Lounge Spherion Two Men and a Truck

2014 JUDGE’S CHOICE WINNER

BEDROCK WINGS OF LAKELAND

2014 PEOPLE’S CHOICE WINNER

BEEF O’BRADY’S FAMILY SPORTS PUB SOUTH Buffalo Wild Wings Carter’s BBQ Cleveland Heights Golf Course Fred’s Market: Johnson BBQ Ker’s Winghouse Bar & Grill Mojo’s Wings Burgers Beer Ovations Food Services Whiskey Bent BBQ Supply

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American Business Women’s Association Chick-Fil-A Crispers Downtown Lakeland Partnership Dunkin Donuts Fresco’s Bakery & Bistro Jet’s Pizza of Lakeland Jimmy’s Famous Seafood Express Jimmy John’s PDQ South Lakeland Red Elephant Pizza and Grill Ric’s Wine Market

Black & Brew Coffee House & Bistro Burger 21 Dairy Queen North French Fry Heaven Lakeland GLT Total Office Gold’s Gym Grillsmith J Burns Pizza Mimi’s Café Palace Pizza Restaurant Downtown Terrace Hotel Tracy and Company Hair Designers, Inc. True MD Smokey Bones BBQ & Grill Tijuana Flats Burrito Company

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smal l b u s i n e s s o f t h e mon t h

STANLEY STEEMER CARPET CLEANER MR. JOHN PETERS

(863) 709-9400 4318 Holden Rd Lakeland, FL 33811

CONNECT ] www.stanleysteemer.com

You’ve probably seen them on the road or maybe even parked at your house or business, those bright yellow Stanley Steemer vans.

Those vans, and the technicians that drive them, are busy providing professional cleaning services for carpet, upholstery, tile and grout, hardwood flooring, and water extraction services. John Peters and his wife Susan own the local Stanley Steemer franchise, and they take great pride in the services they offer.

It’s not surprising that a cleaning company would have a fleet of pristinely maintained vans that are washed inside and out each day after they

SMALL BUSINESS

OF THE MONTH

COMMITTEE MEMBER, MARY MCQUEEN,

PRESENTS THE SMALL BUSINESS OF THE

MONTH AWARD FOR MAY TO JOHN AND SUSAN PETERS.

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return from their route.

The fleet is replaced every two and a half years, and all cleaning equipment is expertly cared for to ensure the best service for customers.

Even though Stanley Steemer is a large corporation with franchises all across the nation, John and Susan have created a company that has a familyowned atmosphere. In an industry that has a relatively high employee turnover rate, John and Susan’s staff are mostly long time employees. As owners, they strive to provide their employees with excellent training and mentoring so they can move up within the Stanley Steemer

Corporation. They have helped two of their employees purchase franchises in other states, so they can become Stanley Steemer owners and realize the entrepreneur dream.

John and Susan’s commitment to excellence has been highly regarded by Stanley Steemer’s corporate offices. They have won multiple awards including 2001 Rookie Franchise owner as well as Operations of Excellence Awards in 2003 and 2008. More recently Susan was recognized with the Maxine Bates Award, the highest award given for her hard work, loyalty and integrity by Stanley

Steemer. John was recognized this past year by the corporate office and awarded the Tony Musilli Memorial Award for his dedication to Stanley Steemer.

Stanley Steemer is the first carpet cleaner to be certified asthma and allergy friendly™ by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

John is committed to providing the highest standard for cleaning services in his mission of making every home or business they enter cleaner and healthier, putting a smile on every customers face.

Not only do John and Susan have a commitment to providing excellent service to their

customers but they are also committed to the community. They provide support for many local charities including LVIM, SPCA Lakeland, Junior Achievement and Medulla Fire Department.

They are also members of the Better Business Bureau and the Institute of Inspection Carpet Cleaning Repair Installation Certifications, and of course, the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate John and Susan Peters of Stanley Steemer, the Small Business of the Month award winner for May 2014.

BY MARY MCQUEEN,

MCQUEEN MARKETING LLC

WANT TO KNOW WHY BEING A MEMBER OF THE LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER IS SO BECOMING? READ ON...

CALENDAR

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

TIMOTHY B. JACKSON NUJAK COMPANIES, INC. I have very much enjoyed serving as your Chairman these past few months, and getting to meet many of you at Chamber and community events.

Your Chamber has been actively working to offer a broad menu of programs and services that meet the diverse needs of our 1,700 member businesses.

We value the investment you have made in this organization, and want to report on our progress so far this year.

Under the Chamber’s Strategic Implementation Plan, we are continuing to focus on five key strategies initiatives (KSIs) to move Lakeland’s business community forward. Here’s a brief update on what our KSI strategy groups are working on: Business Development, led by Vice Chair Dr. Bill Rhey (Florida Southern College). Bill and his strategy group have been exploring the launch of an International Business Council here in Lakeland, to expand international trade opportunities for local businesses. The group is also working with Gene Conrad with Lakeland Linder Regional Airport on strategies to expand commercial opportunities out there.

Membership Development, led by Vice Chair Mike McGee (McGee Auto Service and Tires). Over the past year, this strategy group has researched and developed a new tiered investment model for our Chamber. The new plan will offer enhanced benefits and services through several membership tiers, making it easier for businesses to select the tier that best meets their business needs. The new plan will officially launch in 2015, but new members are already being brought in under the new program.

Public Policy, led by Vice Chair Matt Ruthven (The Ruthvens). This KSI, which is aligned to the

NEW MEMBERS

Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee, monitors and advocates for pro-business legislation and laws at the local, state and federal level. During this past legislative session, Matt and his strategy group worked successfully with the City of Lakeland and other stakeholders to secure funding support for the Detroit Tigers spring training operations in Lakeland as well as other spring training teams in Florida.

Sustainable Community, led by Vice Chair Craig Hill (Law Office of Craig B. Hill, P.L.). This KSI is focused on continuing to provide opportunities for young business professionals, entrepreneurs, students and small businesses to become more engaged in our community. The strategy group is also working with other community stakeholders, including Ignite Lakeland, to revitalize Lakeland’s downtown corridor and to attract and retain the best and brightest of our creative class in Lakeland.

Talent Development, led by Vice Chair Dr. Joe Childs (Southeastern University). Talent Development has always had its focus on the fact that we must train, educate and retain talent for our community to continue to grow and thrive. Joe and his strategy group are planning an event in the fall that will offer an opportunity for all of the community’s institutions of higher learning to gather together for a collaborative event. Their goal is to continue to build relationships among the various colleges and universities, and engage all students, both new and returning, in our community.

Besides these strategies, we’re also working on several other important initiatives, including:

CHAMBER ACCREDITATION. For the past 45 years, your Chamber has been accredited with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

We will be submitting our application for 45-year accreditation this fall. Special thanks to Past Chair Mark Wilson (Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.) for chairing the Accreditation Oversight Task Force. In 2009, the Chamber was one of only 55 chambers in the country to receive a Five-Star accreditation rating, which is the highest possible rating awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

SMALL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CENTER. We are pleased to continue our partnership with the SBDC at USF into 2014, and this spring welcomed Javier Marin, Certified Business Consultant with the SBDC to work from the Chamber’s building. Javier is dedicated to Polk County’s small businesses and specializes in finance and growth acceleration – a major asset for Lakeland’s entrepreneurs!

PRESIDENT SEARCH. Paul Noris (Bank of Central Florida) has been appointed to chair the search committee to recruit a new President to succeed Kathleen Munson by the end of the year. Kathleen is retiring after serving the Chamber for the past 27 years.

Paul and his committee will conduct a search process over the summer months, and hope to bring a recommendation back to the Board of Directors this fall. As we move into the summer months, please remember to support our local businesses and the “Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents”! campaign. By doing business in Lakeland, you are supporting fellow Chamber businesses, families, friends and neighbors.

I encourage you to read this month’s Forum for further updates on what’s happening at the Chamber. We could not accomplish all we have this year in leading Lakeland’s business community without the active involvement and support of our members. Working together, we will continue to build Lakeland as THE community of choice to live, work and play.

I hope to see you at an upcoming Chamber event!

Best regards,

TIMOTHY B. JACKSON,

Chairman of the Board

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June 2014 dates THUR 5

THUR 12 THUR 19

MON 16

THURSDAY, JUNE 5 LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP BREAKFAST 7:00 a.m.

Lakeland Yacht & Country Club 929 Lake Hollingsworth Dr

THURSDAY, JUNE 12 BUSINESS & BREAKFAST 7:30 a.m.

Estates at Carpenters 1001 Carpenter’s Way

WED 4

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4 TALENT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING

MON 9

MONDAY, JUNE 9 EMERGE LAKELAND STEERING COMMITTEE

TUES 10

TUESDAY, JUNE 10 PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE TOUR OF CUBA INFORMATIONAL MEETING

WED 11

THURSDAY, JUNE 19 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 p.m.

Ed Morse Mazda 1250 W Memorial Blvd

11:45 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

TUES 17

3:30 p.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11 GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

TUESDAY, JUNE 17 EMERGE: LAKELAND ECONOMIC UPDATE FOR YPS AT CATAPULT Noon Catapult Lakeland 331 South Florida Ave

3:45 p.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

5:30 p.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

MONDAY, JUNE 16 SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS COMMITTEE MEETING

WED 18

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 18 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

THUR 26

THURSDAY, JUNE 26 SCORE ROUND TABLE

JULY 15

TUESDAY, JULY 15 EMERGE: A FIVE ALARM FESTIVITY: BREAKFAST WITH THE LAKELAND FIRE DEPARTMENT

8:00 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11 BUSINESSVOICE OF GREATER LAKELAND 9:00 a.m.

Chamber Briefing Room

4:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m.

Lakeland Chamber 35 Lake Morton Dr

8:00 a.m.

Lakeland Fire Dpt Station 1 (Downtown)

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SAT

SUN 1

2

3

4

5 TALENT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING 3:30 P.M.

9 EMERGE LAKELAND STEERING COMMITTEE 3:45 P.M.

16 SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS COMMITTEE MEETING | 11:45 A.M.

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10 PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE TOUR OF CUBA INFORMATIONAL MEETING | 5:30 P.M.

17 EMERGE: LAKELAND ECONOMIC UPDATE FOR YPS AT CATAPULT | NOON

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11 GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS 8:00 A.M. BUSINESSVOICE OF GREATER LAKELAND 9:00 A.M.

18 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING | 4:00 P.M.

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29

LEGISLATIVE WRAP-UP BREAKFAST | 7:00 A.M.

12 BUSINESS & BREAKFAST 7:30 A.M.

19 BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 5:30 P.M.

26 28 SCORE ROUND TABLE 7:30 A.M.

30

6

Ev ent HI G HLI GH T S 01

APRIL NEW MEMBER RECEPTION Hosted by Audubon Oaks Apartments

01 | Guests greatly enjoyed the beautiful

clubhouse and welcoming atmosphere at Audubon Oaks Apartments.

02 | Networking was in full swing at this

month’s New Member Reception!

APRIL BUSINESS & BREAKFAST Hosted by Lake Morton Plaza, LLC

03 | Wes Craven of BigHarryDeals.com,

Polk Foodie/Polk Home & Garden Magazine and Polk Elder Care Guide discussed Advertising Strategies for Small Businesses.

04 | Thank you Lake Morton Plaza,

LLC for your gracious hospitality and delicious breakfast!

02

03

04

During the month of April our Visitor Information Center assisted hundreds of individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businesses and the Lakeland community.

WALK-IN VISITORS................................................. 395 RELOCATION RESPONSE MAILINGS........................ 6 RELOCATION RESPONSE (WALK IN)...................... 27 ACCOMMODATIONS................................................. 1 WINTER ACCOMMODATIONS.................................. 0 VISITOR INFORMATION MAILINGS.......................... 7 VISITOR CENTER E-MAIL INQUIRIES.................... 113

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 15

T. Mims Corp.

Welcomes Ashley Edmund, a graduate of the University of South Florida. With her experience in records management and business administrative support, Mrs. Edmund will specialize in project research and implementation. T. Mims Corp. engages in real estate development, recycling/landfill operations, mining, cattle production, and commercial leasing.

Also, welcomes Lacy Holmes, a graduate of Florida State University. Ms. Holmes will specialize in business development, be responsible for project research and manage visual and print media. T. Mims Corp. engages in real estate development, recycling/landfill operations, mining, cattle production, and commercial leasing.

FHS, Inc.

CHAIRMAN ’S CIRCLE Bank of Central Florida Is proud to announce the hiring of Aileen Payne to their Management Team as a Private Banking Officer. A native of New Orleans, Ms. Payne has been in the banking industry for over 35 years.

Aileen is a graduate of Leadership Winter Haven Class XXVI. She is also very active in her support of organizations that aid military fallen heroes and wounded warriors in both the Lakeland and Winter Haven areas.

CPS Investment Advisors Chas P. Smith, president, was the keynote speaker at the 17th annual CPAlliance Executive Roundtable in Greenville at the Honey Lake Plantation. Topics included the CPA’s role as a fiduciary, the CPA as a trusted adviser in the financial services industry, the importance of dividends in a portfolio, creative retirement plan solutions, and a global economic outlook.

Furr & Wegman Architects, PA Architect Aaron Banks, AIA, LEED AP has joined Furr & Wegman Architects, P.A. Aaron has more than eight years of extensive experience in the Central Florida market in commercial, educational, religious and hospitality projects which complement our firm’s focus in providing quality design services. Aaron is from Winter Haven, FL. He earned degrees at Polk State College and the University of South Florida. Aaron is married to Ashlie Banks and currently lives in Wesley Chapel, FL.

Lakeland Regional Medical Center Proudly announces that it has been named recipient of the Gallup Great Workplace Award based on the most rigorous workplace research ever conducted. The Gallup Great Workplace Award recognizes companies who have achieved engagement excellence for their extraordinary ability to create an engaged workplace culture.

LRMC is one of only 35 international winners.

16 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S

Todd Wall, President of FHS, has been elected to serve on the Florida Phosphate Political Committee. Florida Phosphate Political Committee (FPPC) organization was founded in 1979 to encourage phosphate industry participation in government and key political issues.

Watson Clinic LLP Recently received the highest level of recognition as a Patient Centered Medical Home from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), a non-profit organization devoted to improving health care quality.

To be deemed a Patient Centered Medical Home, a medical practice must meet strict criteria in delivering an all-inclusive, convenient and consistent healthcare experience for each patient. This model is based upon a variety of factors, including the establishment of an ongoing, personal relationship between a patient and their primary care provider.

JSK Consulting, Inc. Is pleased to announce Michael Schenk, PE has joined our professional team as our Director of Utilities Engineering. Mr. Schenk has considerable experience working on public and private sector utility engineering studies and projects throughout the State of Florida. He is responsible for business development of new clients while also maintaining strong relationships with JSK’s existing clients.

C oldwell Banker Commercial Saunders Real Estate David Hungerford recently joined the land real estate brokerage firm. Hungerford specializes in development land, including agricultural, investment and commercial properties.

Pyramid Profiles Ian McIntosh, LMT was elected and sworn in as 1st Vice President of the Florida State Massage Therapy Association (FSMTA), Heart of Florida Chapter. The mission of the FSMTA is to promote awareness of massage therapy in Florida through education and professionalism. In his role, McIntosh plans to bolster education and publicity efforts in Polk County.

THE LAKELAND CHAMBER PRINTS BUSINESS ANNOUNCEMENTS EACH MONTH AS SPACE PERMITS. PLEASE EMAIL ANNOUNCEMENTS TO MOTM@LAKELANDCHAMBER.COM

Lakeland Habitat for Humanity Welcomes John Roberts, Construction Manager and Jinola Smith, Administrative Assistant. LHFH builds and renovates homes for low income families, elderly and veterans.

Alltrust Insurance Announces Sozon Vatikiotis as CEO. He is a graduate of Stetson University College of Law and practiced in the fields of commercial and corporate litigation before joining Alltrust in 2011 to develop the company’s central Florida market.

Bankers South Lending & Finance Julia Hubbard, who has a long career in accounting management, has been hired as Chief Financial Officer for the company. Lakeland native Samantha Sokolski has been hired as a Relationship Manager, working mostly with the AgAmerica Lending division. A.J. Porreca, a former international barefoot ski champion, has been hired on fulltime after a semester-long internship.

Cecilia Yan has been working with AgAmerica for about 8 months as an intern in underwriting and was recently offered a fulltime position. Amanda Erhard is graduating from this semester and has accepted a fulltime position the Land South Group accounting department.

Each month, the Chamber enlists the help of 20 volunteers to mentor new and current members with involvement in Chamber events and programs.

This month, the Chamber staff would like to recognize Bob Read, Director at LegalShield of Lakeland, for his outstanding attention to Chamber members and attendance at events! Bob is a wonderful asset to the Chamber and to the Lakeland community!

BOB READ

LEGALSHIELD OF LAKELAND Director

Special thanks to Mayor Howard Wiggs, Mayor Pro Tem Keith Merritt, and all the Board Members and Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies special events.

FITNICHE, INC. 1523 TOWN CENTER DR | (863) 619-5390

Lakeland, FL 33803 FITNICHE.COM

UNIQUE POOLS SPAS PATIO N MORE

JC MACHINE, INC.

2326 E EDGEWOOD DR | (863) 940-9826

3620 AIRPORT RD | (863) 450-3195

Lakeland, FL 33803

Lakeland, FL 33811

LAKELANDHOTTUBPOOLANDPATIO.COM

JCMI-USA.COM

EXPLORATIONS V CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

OLIVE BRANCH REALTY

109 N KENTUCKY AVE | (863) 687-3869

1715 S FLORIDA AVE | (863) 602-8830

Lakeland, FL 33801

Lakeland, FL 33803

EXPLORATIONSV.COM

OLIVEBRANCHREALTY.NET

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 17

PARTNERS ARK INSURANCE SOLUTIONS. LLC 4404 S FLORIDA AVE, STE 6B LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 614-0810 ARKINSURANCESOLUTION.COM ABIGAIL ROCHE INSURANCE

FISH2O

2195 E EDGEWOOD DR LAKELAND, FL 33803 (863) 683-7333 GOFISH2O.COM TODD VREELAND RETAIL

KERRY

5200 US HIGHWAY 98 S LAKELAND, FL 33812 (863) 619-2222 KERRY.COM CHRISTOPHER THIEL FLAVOR PRODUCTS – MANUFACTURER

NEW BETHEL A.M.E. CHURCH 2122 MARTIN L KING JR AVE LAKELAND, FL 33805 (863) 687-1994 EDDIE LAKE CHURCHES/SYNAGOGUES

BUSINESS BUILDERS KATHRYN ABELS

CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (863) 660-1301 INDIVIDUALS

AXA ADVISORS/CURTIS W RAVEN, JD CPA CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (813) 892-3491 CURTISRAVEN.COM CURTIS RAVEN FINANCIAL SERVICES

BURKS FINANCIAL GROUP

5143 S LAKELAND DR, STE 4 LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 940-4755 BURKSFINANCIALGROUP.COM BOB BOWLING FINANCIAL SERVICES

CRUISE PLANNERS

4004 CHEVERLY DR W LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 644-1014 EXCLUSIVECRUISEPLANNERS.COM RUTHELISE ANDERSON TRAVEL AGENCIES

D.R. HORTON

1977 WIND MEADOWS DR BARTOW, FL 33830 (863) 860-6645 DRHORTON.COM TWINKLE ROBINSON REAL ESTATE

GILLINGHAM PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, LLC 10145 SLAUGHTERHOUSE RD POLK CITY, FL 33868 (863) 698-2121 DAN GILLINGHAM SURVEYING

18 | | F OF RO U RM U MF OF RO RB U BS U ISNI EN SE S S

HILLCREST COFFEE

119 HILLCREST ST LAKELAND, FL 33815 (863) 398-9155 BRIAN GODING COFFEE HOUSE

JIMMY’S FAMOUS SEAFOOD EXPRESS

CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (863) 662-0323 NIK MINADAKIS RESTAURANTS

THE MEN’S WEARHOUSE #3340 3957 US HIGHWAY 98 N LAKELAND, FL 33809 (863) 859-7418 TMW.COM PATRICK FLYNN MEN’S APPAREL

MERCURIAL CREATIVE SOLUTIONS 1109 LAKE POINT TERRACE LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 712-6007 MERCURIAL.SOLUTIONS KARYN BARKER MARKETING/ADVERTISING

PHILLIPS CORPORATION

PO BOX 28 EAGLE LAKE, FL 33839 (863) 733-4800 THEPHILLIPSCORP.COM MICHAEL CARGIL CLEANERS – WATER & SMOKE DAMAGE

PREMIER HOME MORTGAGE 223 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33801 (863) 709-1300 MIKE MARINO MORTGAGES & LENDING

SHORT AND SIMPLE SUPPLIES

CALL TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT (863) 221-3809 SHORTANDSIMPLESUPPLIES.COM DONNA MARIE HOUDARSKI DISTRIBUTORS

WHIMSY BOUTIQUE 4415 S FLORIDA AVE LAKELAND, FL 33813 (863) 640-2815 SHOPWHIMSY.COM SUE KRAFT RETAIL

NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR

20+

15

YEARS

YEARS

1951 | 63 YEARS PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS, INC.

1967 | 47 YEARS

AEI ELECTRICAL CONSTRUCTION, INC. ALL CREATURES ANIMAL CLINIC MITCHELL INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. POP’S PAINTING, INC.

LUNZ PREBOR FOWLER ARCHITECTS

The Lakeland Area Chamber of

YMCA OF WEST CENTRAL FLORIDA, INC.

1974 | 40 YEARS GRAYROBINSON, P.A.

1977 | 37 YEARS CROWE HORWATH LLP

1980 | 34 YEARS

10

Commerce is fortunate to be led by a

YEARS

ex-officio members. These dedicated

THE FOUNDATION OF SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

40 member board of directors and five volunteer leaders direct the governance of the Chamber and represent the interests of our 1,700 members.

ATLANTIC FILTER OF POLK COUNTY, INC.

1981 | 33 YEARS CENTRAL FLORIDA SPEECH & HEARING CENTER

1982 | 32 YEARS TIDWELL’S URETHANE FOAM SERVICE

1984 | 30 YEARS

5

YEARS BANK OF CENTRAL FLORIDA GRIFFIN LAWN CARE LLC

In July, a nominating committee headed

by Chair-elect Kurt Elmhorst (Allen & Company of Florida) will convene to nominate 12 new directors to serve a three-year term on the Chamber’s board of directors, effective January 1, 2015.

ESTATES AT CARPENTERS STEPHEN D HERMAN CPA

1985 | 29 YEARS THE HAIR SHANTY OMNIA, INC. ONEBLOOD

1988 | 26 YEARS MUNCHEL’S FINE JEWELRY, INC. PRESTON CRAFT HEARING AIDS

Active Chamber members in good

People-to-People Tour

CU B A

October 12-19, 2014

standing are invited to submit their names or the names of other members who meet the qualifications of nomination. Nominations will be submitted to the 2015 Officers and Directors Nominating Committee.

1989 | 25 YEARS HIGHLANDS PROPERTIES/NORTH CAROLINA

NAMES OF PROPOSED BOARD CANDIDATES SHOULD BE SUBMITTED NO LATER THAN FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2014 AT 5:00 PM TO

1990 | 24 YEARS COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE, INC. SIR SPEEDY PRINTING

1991 | 23 YEARS

KATHLEEN MUNSON, PRESIDENT Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 3607 Lakeland, FL 33802-3607

BEEF O’BRADY’S FAMILY SPORTS PUB DANIELLE FENCE MFG. CO., INC. EXPLORATIONS V CHILDREN’S MUSEUM LORIO & ASSOCIATES, INC. KENNETH L. MUNDY, D.D.S., P.A. RITEWAY FOOD BROKERS, INC.

1992 | 22 YEARS SOUTHERN HOMES OF POLK COUNTY, INC.

1993 | 21 YEARS BASKIN-ROBBINS ICE CREAM

$3,599

from Tampa For Details: Travel.LakelandChamber.com (863) 688-8551 Ext. 228

1994 | 20 YEARS RE/MAX PARAMOUNT PROPERTIES SUNSHINE INTERIORS OF LAKELAND, INC.

department of the treasury cuban assets control regulation license no: CT-2013-2299886-1 pending renewal approval

BY FAX (863) 683-7454

BY EMAIL kmunson@lakelandchamber.com

Questions regarding the nomination process may be directed to Kathleen at (863) 688-8551, Ext. 234 or to the above email address.

FO F OR RU UMMF O F OR RB BU US SI NI NE ES S S | | 19

po l k E c onomi c U p dat e

DR. JAMES FARRELL, CFA

FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE

CPS Investment Advisors is proud to underwrite the research and preparation of the Polk Progress report

CONNECT ] FLSouthern.edu/ PolkProgress

With Dr. Carl Brown retiring from Florida Southern College this month, with him goes the Polk Progress Report in its full form. After 30 years of economic updates and tracking the growth of the Polk County economy, Dr. Brown calculated his final Polk Progress Index as of the 4th quarter 2013 (of course with a projection for 1st quarter 2014).

While Polk County took a small step back in the 4th quarter, Dr. Brown projected that the 1st quarter will see a return to growth. We have seen taxable sales remain low through the 1st quarter, declining 7.5% year-over-year. Revised employment numbers show a quarterly gain of 0.8% and a yearover-year gain of 1.4%,

P O LK P RO GRES S I N DEX

bringing the total number of employed people in Polk County to 255,813 as of March 2014. With a labor force of 275,450, Polk County has an unemployment rate of 7.1%, which

is slightly higher than in December, attributable to a 2% increase in the number of job seekers with only a 1.5% increase in employed persons from December to March.

P R O F E S S O R O F E C O N O M I C S, D R . C A R L B R O W N, R E T I R E D F R O M FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE AFTER 3 4 Y E A R S W I T H T H E I N S T I T U T I O N.

In addition to his contributions to the business community through the Polk Progress Index, Dr. Brown also helped to start the MBA program at FSC. THANK YOU, DR. BROWN FOR YOUR SERVICE!

20 | F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S

Home sales are holding steady, albeit at a lower level than the 2013 peak, at 1332 homes sold in the county during the 1st quarter.

This represents a slight uptick from the 4th quarter of 2013 where there were 1317 homes sold.

At the national level, the S&P 500 finish April up .62%, bring its year-to date return to 1.91%, while the DJIA finished April up .75%, bringing its year-to-date return to -.11%. Gold and silver continue to trade near their 52-week lows as uncertainty and speculation have taken a backseat to slow, steady growth.

Following 2.6% GDP growth in the 4th quarter, GDP stagnated in the 1st quarter, growing at an annualized .1%. While personal consumption was up .5% over the quarter, GDP was held back by

declines in investment and exports. The particularly harsh winter is partially attributable to the decline in investment as many projects were slowed. Personal income was also up .5%, suggesting continued steady improvement. Inflation remains low, with the CPI increasing 1.5% during 2013, and .4% since the beginning of the year. While gasoline and fuel oil have declined, utility oil has increased over the quarter.

In all, the economy continues to move along slowly.

Unemployment numbers continue to reflect an improving economy, with new job openings spurring a return to the labor force of previously discouraged workers, contributing to the bounciness of the recent unemployment rate.

C/F/R’S POLK COUNTY TEAM – CPAs DEDICATED TO YOUR SUCCESS

At C/F/R, we’re firm believers that bigger isn’t always better. We prefer to know our clients on a personal level, providing our undivided attention and wholehearted support. From the smallest tasks to the largest challenges, we keep the focus where it’s meant to be, on having the right people with the right skills providing our clients with amazing service. As advisors, we believe we are a reflection of the clients we serve. Knowledge is key. Deadlines are met. Costs are fair. Relationships matter. We take on your challenges as if they were our own and we celebrate your successes, because ultimately, what’s important to you is important to us.

The largest accounting firm local to Polk County

Lakeland Office 863-937-9520

Winter Haven Office 863-299-5638

Tampa Office 813-321-6869

Orlando Office 407-841-6930

www.cfrcpa.com

TA S T E

a of local business o n e c u p at a t i m e

The Common

Grounds member

feature gives your business the

opportunity to showcase “a day in the

life” of your employees and customers.

Each month, one of the door prizes at

the Business After Hours event will be a Common Grounds Lakeland Chamber coffee mug & the opportunity to submit a 350 word article about your local business.

B Y K I M B E R LY V O T E R Y MARKET MANAGER, LAKELAND | GROWFINANCIAL.ORG

Grow Financial’s 20th location - and the first in Polk County - just celebrated its first anniversary! The modern store opened last April at 2645 S. Florida Ave. in the Southgate Shopping Center. Showcasing the latest interactive technology, the 4,521 square foot building is home to eight professionals including a commercial banker and a mortgage lender. Grow Financial is a full service financial institution offering a comprehensive array of services for individuals and businesses.

I’m Kimberly Votery, the Market Manager of the Lakeland store. Before transferring to Grow, I was the Branch Manager at Midflorida Credit Union in Lakeland. Before working in the credit union model, I spent about 14 years working with Bank of America. I’ve been in Lakeland more than 21 years and I stay very active in the community. I currently serve as the secretary of my church’s finance committee and the vice president of my homeowner’s association. I’m a Chamber Champion, Lakeland Business Leader and member of the American Business Women’s Association.

Here at Grow, it’s my job to mentor, motivate and develop our Lakeland/Polk County team to best serve our members. And, as Market Manager, I’m regularly in the “market” visiting with members and building the relationships that set the foundation for our outstanding client service.

My job is great because I represent Grow Financial to the Lakeland and Polk County community. Grow Financial started with very humble beginnings back in 1955 when the military personnel and civilian employees of MacDill Air Force decided to pool their resources to open MacDill Air Force Base Federal Credit Union. A broom closet in a base office building was cleared out to make room for the Credit Union’s very first location, which was open only during lunch hours!

Grow Financial now serves more than 171,000 members and opened its 22nd location in Columbia, South Carolina last November. The Credit Union continues to expand as they prepare to open five more stores this year.

Grow Financial continues to stay ahead of the competition with innovative ideas and services, and has been recognized as a Top Workplace in Tampa Bay for the past three consecutive years.

2222| |F OF O RR UU MMF OF O R RB B UU SS I NI N ES ESS

p u bli c pol i cy 2014 FLORIDA LEGISLATIVE SESSION CONCLUDES : SINE DIE

RICH ROY

PUBLIC AFFAIRS VICE PRESIDENT

CONNECT ] LakelandChamber.com

The last day of the legislative session, better known on Capitol Hill as Sine Die, is a lot like the last day of school. Everyone is excited the end has come as they watch the ceremonial dropping of the hankies signifying the official end of the 60-day legislative session in Tallahassee.

Prior to the start of the 2014 Florida legislative session, your Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce approved a slate of legislative priorities, alongside our Florida Chamber partners, that increases opportunities in the city and state. Since

then, state legislators approved a $77.1 billion state budget, passed legislation providing $500 million in tax cuts to Florida’s families and small businesses through reductions in auto tag fees, back-to-school and hurricane preparedness tax holidays, as well as, funding for local projects in the community.

Some of those projects in the community include legislation supporting and retaining the Detroit Tigers and Spring Training teams in the state, Peace River Center Crisis

Stabilization Unit & Triage Center funding and reinstatement of $500,000 for the Salvation Army George W. Jenkins Community of Hope project.

We were fortunate to get the above bills and funding requests approved by both legislative chambers before the hankies dropped – quite the rare feat considering nearly nine-tenths of the legislation filed during regular sessions doesn’t make the cut.

We are hesitant to pop open those champagne bottles just yet as we still need the approval of the Governor to

be truly victorious… something that won’t happen until after this article has gone to print.

We would like to thank Senators Kelli Stargel, Denise Grimsley, and Darren Soto, and Representatives Seth McKeel, Ben Albritton, John Wood, Neil Combee, and Mike La Rosa, for their support, hard work and dedication.

We would also like to thank our members for your engagement during session and playing a key role in helping to advance issues of importance

within the business world. During the 60day session, we sent eight “Call to Action” emails and nine “Legislative Update” emails, growing our subscriber list by 30% and connecting members and business owners directly to our Polk Delegation.

Moving forward, your Lakeland Chamber will focus on local issues, such as the upcoming municipal election, infrastructure improvements, and implementation of the above measures to create a more sustainable community.

Well-Rounded.

You’re in good hands. Wall Titus can provide everything from tax preparation to wealth management. Our comprehensive financial approach gives you the confidence and certainty of knowing we’ve got your finances under control.

F O R U M F O R B U S I N E S S | 23

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 3607 • Lakeland, FL 33802 - 3607

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