December 2009Vol. XIX, No.12

Buy Lakeland. It makes good cents! • visit LakelandChamber.com

Small Businessof the Month:See whoreceived theplaque for thismonthly award.Page 5

WinnersAnnounced:The winners ofthe 19th AnnualLakelandChamberScramble areannounced.Page 16

Board Retreat:Frank LloydWright visitsannual BoardRetreatPage 17

insidethis issue

FORUM FOR BUSINESSmonthly

LAKELAND AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ALSO INSIDE: Upcoming Events •ChamberAccreditation •RibbonCuttings •Members on theMove

Have we seen the end? Is the worst behind us?Is the economy really rebounding? And what will Florida’snew, recovered economy look like once the dust settles?Mark your calendars NOW because youdon’t want to miss the opportunity to hearthe latest economicpredictions for 2010.

The Lakeland Chamberof Commerce and Allen& Company will host the23rd Annual EconomicForecast Breakfast at theLakeland Center onJanuary 14th.

Back by popular demand,Brian Wesbury will offerhis perspective on the national economy.Mr. Wesbury is one of America’s prominenteconomists and economic forecasters. He isthe Chief Economist at First Trust AdvisorsL.P., a financial services firm based in Lisle,Illinois and serves on the Board of Advisorsto First Trust Capital Partners, an affiliatedprivate-equity firm. Brian is a monthlycontributor for the American Spectatormagazine and regularly published in the WallStreet Journal, and has been a CNBCcontributor since 2007.

New to our event, Dr. Robert Lang will join

us to offer his perspective on the futuregrowth and economic potential of Polk

County and the CentralFlorida region. RobertLang has made a strongmark as one of America’spre-eminent experts onthe many faces - urban,suburban and exurban –of physical and populationgrowth across NorthAmerica. An urbanplanning and policyexpert, Dr. Lang focuseson suburban studies;

demographic and spatial analysis; metropolitangovernance; the “built environment”; andother issues of environmental psychology. Heis a director of the Metropolitan Institute atthe Virginia Polytechnic Institute and StateUniversity and is research director for theBrookings Mountain West Initiative withthe University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

To reserve tickets, call (863/688-8551, x228)or email Christine Murphy atcmurphy@lakelandchamber.com. Tickets are$25. You can also complete the ticket orderform found in this month’s FORUM insert.

DON’T MISS OUT -RESERVE TICKETS NOW

2010 ECONOMICFORECAST BREAKFAST

Thursday, January 14, 20107:00 – 9:00 AM

The Lakeland Center

SAVE THEDATE

Save the Date for the64th Annual Tiger BBQFebruary 25, 2010More informationto follow online:

www.lakelandchamber.comand in your January 2010FORUM FOR BUSINESS!

Lakeland Area Chamber of CommerceForum For Business Monthly

No.2

Volume Information: December 2009 • Vol. XIX, No. 12

The City of Lakeland municipalelection was held Tuesday, November3rd. Voters re-elected CommissionerHoward Wiggs in the Lakeland AtLarge Seat 1 race and electedDon Selvage as a newly seatedCommissioner in the LakelandSouthwest District C seat. TheChamber extends our congratulationsto both Commissioner Wiggs andsoon-to-be Commissioner Selvage!

A runoff election is scheduled forTuesday, December 8, 2009 to decidethe Mayoral race and the LakelandNorthwest District A seat. Theballot will also include the specialelection for the Lakeland SoutheastDistrict D seat.

The City of Lakeland Mayoral ballotincludes Gow Fields and JimVerplanck. Clarence Grier, Sr. andPhillip Walker will also compete ina runoff election to determine whowill represent the NW District Aseat on the Commission. IncumbentCommissioner Edie Yates andPatrick Jones will face each other ina special election for the SE DistrictD seat scheduled for December 8th.

Please remember to stress theimportance of the December 8thelections to your friends, family andcolleagues. This is a crucial electionthat will determine the path ourCity takes the next several years. Beheard on December 8th, VOTE.

The entire November 3, 2009Election Summary Report for theLakeland Municipal Election isavailable on the Polk CountySupervisor of Elections web site atwww.polkelections.com.

City of Lakelandrunoff election setfor Tuesday, Dec. 8

The Chamber would like to recognize thefollowing members of the executive com-mittee and board of directors as they retirefrom service. Each has contributed un-selfishly of their time, leadership and com-mitment to the Chamber and its members.

Keith AlbrittonAllen & Company of Florida, Inc.

Vice Chair – MembershipDevelopment, 2005-2006Vice Chair –Communications, 2008Board of Directors,2004-2009

Timothy F. CampbellClark, Campbell, Mawhin-ney& Lancaster, P.A.Vice Chair – PublicAffairs, 2005Vice Chair – Education &Public Policy, 2006Chair-elect, 2007

Chairman of the Board, 2008Immediate Past Chair, 2009Board of Directors, 2003-2009Chairman, Lakeland Area ChamberFoundation, Inc., 2009

Mayor Ralph L. “Buddy” FletcherCity of LakelandBoard of Directors,1997-2009

Dr. Marshall GoodmanUniversity of South FloridaPolytechnicBoard of Directors,2006-2009

Andy HernandezMIDFLORIDA RealEstate Sales, LLCBoard of Directors,2007-2009

Dr. Eileen HoldenPolk State CollegeBoard of Directors,2007-2009

Mark MillerGrayRobinson, P.A.General Counsel, 2006Board of Directors,2006-2009

Paul NorisBank of Central FloridaVice Chair - MembershipDevelopment, 2004Vice Chair – InternalInfrastructure, 2005Chair-elect, 2006Chairman of the Board,2007Immediate Past Chair, 2008

Board of Directors, 2002-2009Chairman, Lakeland Area Chamber

Foundation, Inc., 2008

Thank You to Retiring Officers and Directors

Anu SaxenaChairman of the Board

Kathleen L. MunsonPublisher & President

Aaron BatesManaging Editor

Kingston PartnersDesign

Lakeland Chamber Awarded Prestigious 5-Star AccreditationThe U.S. Chamber of Commerce recentlyannounced that the Lakeland Area Chamberof Commerce has been awarded its 40-YearAccreditation with a 5-Star rating. Less than1% out of more than 7,000 chambers in thecountry have achieved this highest level ofaccreditation ranking.

“We are extremely proud to be awarded our 40-year accreditationwith Five-Star rating by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.Accreditation is one of the most prestigious honors bestowed bythe U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and offers an excellentmeasurement tool for chambers of commerce to achieve thehighest standards of organizational excellence in representingtheir member businesses and communities,” said Lakeland Cham-ber President Kathleen Munson. “Achieving the highest levelof accreditation is a tribute to the outstanding leadership of ourChamber volunteer leaders and professional staff, who unselfishlycontribute their time and talent to make Lakeland such atremendous place to live and work.”

The Accreditation program with the U.S. Chamber of Commercedefines organizational excellence in chamber planning andrecognizes chambers for outstanding contributions toward positivechange in their communities. In order to achieve accreditationrating, chambers undergo a comprehensive evaluation in nineareas: governance, finance, human resources, government affairs,program development, communications, technology, facilities andbenchmarking.

To successfully complete the accreditationapplication, Chairman of the Board Anu Saxena(ASC geosciences, inc.) appointed an Accredita-tion Review Task Force to lead the Chamberthrough the evaluation process. The Chamberwould like to recognize the following leaders who

worked with staff for more than six months to successfullycomplete the application:

Chair ...................................Melinda Harrison (Watson Clinic LLP)Governance .......................................................Timothy F. Campbell

(Clark, Campbell, Mawhinney and Lancaster, P.A.)Finance ....................................................................WalkerWilkerson

(The NCTGroup, CPAs, LLP)Human Resources ............................................................Don Selvage

(SHRHuman Resources, LLC)Government Affairs ..................................................Mark E.Wilson

(Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.)Program Development.............Maureen Shaw (Flower Cart Florist)Communication................................................................SamNimah

(SouthernWine and Spirits of Florida)Technology...........................Todd Baylis (Cipher Integrations, Inc.)Facilities............................................Joe L. Ruthven (The Ruthvens)Benchmarking ........................Paul Noris (Bank of Central Florida)

The LakelandArea Chamber of Commerce represents more than1,800 businesses in the Greater Lakeland area. The Chamber wasfirst accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in 1968, and hassuccessfully achieved its accreditation every five years since then.

Increase Your Business Potential inthe New Year!

Each year, the Chamber offers it’smembers the outstanding opportu-nity to meet and greet up to 20businesses! Hats Off to ChamberMembers has been scheduled forJanuary 26, 2010. Please volunteerto deliver the 2010 MembershipMaterials to 20+ companies… it’s aperfect way to meet local businessowners and provide assistance to theChamber at the same time! Makesure you reserve your spot- there are alimited number of spaces available!

Please call Terry Ottinger at863/688-8551, Ext 231 for moredetails and to volunteer.

No.4

INCREASE YOURPOTENTIAL

HATSOFF

Creative Refinishing has been servingLakeland and Central Florida area foralmost thirty years with the finest qualityantique restoration and wood refinishing.Through hard work and dedicationWayne Small has built a full servicefacility for furniture restoration.

Wayne Small got started in the furniturerestoration business in 1978. He cameto Lakeland to attend SoutheasternBible College in 1977. After a year anda half, he began praying about a careerand met a gentleman at church thatowned “The Craftsman” a furniturerestoration business and Wayne went towork with him for $3/hour. It was evidentthat Wayne was very talented, butlacked business skills. In three monthshe invested as a full partner and theyremained partners for three years beforehe ventured out on his own startingCreative Refinishing.

Located at 1041 East Rose Street,Creative Refinishing is the only fullservice antique restoration and woodrefinishing company in Lakeland. Theyare able to provide just about any servicerelated to furniture restoration.

Wayne and his five employees restorewood furniture which includes repairs,refinishing, and fabrication of newparts, color touch-up/matching, chaircaning and weaving. They also repairwater damaged furniture. CreativeRefinishing has superlative experiencein applying all types of finishes. Theyuse the best spray equipment in a dustfree environmentally safe spray booth.

Creative Refinishing believes in strongethics, honesty and quality. 70% ofCreative Refinishing customers arereferred and 75% are repeat customers.When the final product is delivered orpicked up the customers typically praiseWayne and his staff for the quality oftheir workmanship.Creative Refinishing believes in usingtraditional woodworking techniquesand high quality finishing that will lastfor generations. Their service allows

their customers to continue to use andenjoy their furniture for years to come.

Lakeland is fortunate that Wayne Smallis committed to quality and pride in therestoration of wood furniture and beingone of the best in our community. Werecognize his dedication by namingCreative Refinishing Small Business ofthe Month for November.

Small Business of the Month Award Committee Member, Tim Jackson (NuJak Companies)presents the November Small Business of the Month Award to Wayne Small of Creative Refinishing.Also present to accept the award was (l-r) Abigail White, Ellery Cermeno, David Whitaker &Wendell Harris.

November winnerSmall Business of the Month Award presented

CCrreeaattiivvee RReeffiinniisshhiinnggWayne Small1041 E. Rose StreetLakeland, FL 33801863/688-8400 Phone863/688-8404 Faxwww.creativerefinishing.comwayne@creativerefinishing.com

Apron’s Event ‘full-filling’ successThe United Way/EMERGE Apron’s Event on the eveningof October 22nd proved to be fun, informative, and full-filling (in more ways than one). The event, held at Lone Palm, provided a wonderful opportunityfor networking by the over 70 individuals in attendance including manyEMERGE and United Way Young Leaders Society members.

Chef Mick Grimes of Publix Apron’s showed his expertise as he demonstratedthe preparation of the wonderful meal enjoyed by attendees. We owe our thanksto Mike Larson and Mark Bailey of Constellation Wines U.S. for their amazingselection of an accompanying Wine pared to each course. Lone Palm provedonce again to be a most excellent venue for this annual event with Wayne Rathand his wonderful staff.

Voted as one of the most favored EMERGE events – It is sure to be a “Do NotMiss Event” in 2010.

No.6

By Steve MaddenPresident of Madden

As 2009 comes to a close, now is a goodtime to take an inventory of your sales andmarketing efforts. Review what you haveexecuted over the past year and summarizethe results. If your business is going togrow through this period, you need toadapt to the times. This means analyzingyour sales and marketing strategy to ensureit still meets the needs of your market.

Consumers are more savvy than everbefore and to gain their attention, youhave to make sure you are speaking theirlanguage when and where they want tohear it.

Ask yourself these 8 questions and plan forresults…1. What is causing sales to happen in my

organization? Identify these methods and do more of it.

2. Who are my best customers? Recognize

your current customers and they will reward you with continued loyalty.

3. What defines my ideal customer: frequency, profitability, location, industry? These customers may represent a vertical market for your company to pursue.

4. What am I currently doing to drive traffic to my website? Simple activities can produce greater site activity. Does your site motivate the consumer to take action?

5. Am I managing my online reputation? With the soaring popularity of social media, consumers are creating and sharing their experiences, opinion and

content online. Make sure you are right in the middle of these online conversations.

6. Do I have a defined sales process? When you do things in the correct frequency and volume, results are predictable and measurable.

7. What are my competitors doing? In this economy, competitors may have left the marketplace. Be prepared to grab their market share with sound strategies.

8.Does my brand do a good job of portraying my company’s offering, culture and personality? Keep your brand in fighting shape – it may be time for a facelift.

Start 2010 with a fresh commitment toyour organization and a comprehensivemarketing strategy that defines objectivesand guides decision-making.

Madden is a brand identity company specializ-ing in strategic marketing, advertising, creativeservices, promotional products and brandedapparel.

FOCUS ON MARKETING:Plan a better marketing strategy for 2010

Texas Cattle Company hosts New Member ReceptionThe New Member Reception got off to a great start as hostsponsor Texas Cattle Company, located at 735 Main Street,brought out the delicious appetizers! New members networkedand met with Chamber Champions to start them on the rightpath with their new endeavor. Presenting Sponsor RiversideBank welcomed new members and offered a professional 30-second commercial to help the new members create and delivertheir own. Each new member was introduced to the group and

business cards were exchanged. New Member Receptions areoften the start of long-lasting relationships between members,and the crowd at Texas Cattle Company was eager to meet,share and get involved. Thanks to Texas Cattle Company forthe warm and relaxed environment and the great food andthanks to Presenting Sponsor Riverside Bank for their con-tinued support of the event and their willingness to helpand serve new members.

New members listen as Chamber staff bring them up to date on programsand events available through their Chamber membership

Chrissy Schaff, Riverside National Bank and Liz Craven of Pro-AdMedia networking.

No.8

20+ Years Renewals

1952 -57 YearsBadcock Home Furniture & more1970 - 39 YearsGore's, Inc.1971 - 38 Years The Nissen Group, LLC1973 - 36 YearsStraughn Trout Architects, LLC1974 - 35 Years McGee Tire Stores, Inc.Florida Analytical, Inc.1975 - 34 YearsFlorida Baptist Childrens'' Homes, Inc.1978 - 31 YearsCraig W. Valentine, D.M.D., P.A.1980 - 29 YearsSCMH Architects, Inc.Atlantic Filter of Polk County, Inc.1983 - 26 YearsClark & Daughtrey Medical Group, P.A.1985 - 24 YearsBella Vista Manor & Vista Villas1986 - 23 YearsLakeland Downtown Development AuthorityAmerican Cancer SocietyDaryl A. Johnson, CPAR. Cline, Inc.Fun Bike Center Motorsports1988 - 21 YearsTown & Country Termite & Pest Control, Inc.1989 - 20 YearsImperial Symphony OrchestraMail Processing Associates, Inc.Action Home Care, Inc.Radio Training Network, Inc.Cannon's Appliance ServiceJeffrey Reese Coffman, C.P.A.Wal-Mart Super Center #01-1245Keller Williams Realty-Carolinas

15-Year RenewalsHickman Homes, Inc.Tapatios Restaurante Mexicano, Inc.Stinson's Home Design CenterComfort Inn & SuitesHighland Park Church of the Nazarene

10-Year RenewalsCarlton Arms of North LakelandJohn Hancock Financial NetworkSouthland Suites of LakelandMaddenAlternative Business SolutionsMobility AmericaSave-A-Lot Food Stores

5-Year RenewalsSuperior Business Technologies, IncMaid By Elizabeth

RENEWALSThe Chamber would like to recognizeand thank the following businesses fortheir long-standing support and loyalty.

1st Priority Staffing LLC4100 Frontage Road S Ste 111Lakeland, FL 33815-3203(863) 937-9170Fax: (863) 614-0054www.1stprioritystaffing.comCathy Ward-BolgerEmployment Contractors

AFLAC/Les Middleton5133 S Lakeland Dr Ste 3Lakeland, FL 33813-2622(863) 899-8458www.aflac.comEdward L. MiddletonInsurance

Anston-Greenlees, Inc.1315 W Fletcher AveTampa, FL 33612-3310(813) 963-1919Fax: (813) 963-2815www.agi-engineers.comRob Anston, P.E.Bill Greenlees, P.E.Engineers - Electrical/Mechanical

Body & Soul Massage Therapy& Wellness Center5131 S Florida Ave Ste 7 & 8Lakeland, FL(863) 797-6107(863) 248-4161Barbara BeasleyIan McIntosh, LMTKathleen NowakMassage Therapy

CD CommunicationsLakeland, FL 33810-2678(863) 660-5373Fax: (863) 853-2766Cynthia CavanahDave WakefieldTelecommunications

Chiropractic Center of Lakeland- South5227 US Highway 98 S Lakeland FL33812PO Box 1417Highland City, FL 33846-1417(863) 709-1600www.cclchiro.comDr. Michael StrattonChiropractic Physicians

Darby Law Group, P.A.500 S Florida Ave Ste 30 Lakeland 33801PO Box 2971Lakeland, FL 33806-2971(863) 683-7400Fax: (863) 683-7445www.darbylawgroup.comBen DarbyAttorneys

Elite Pursuit InvestigationsPO Box 92415Lakeland, FL 33804-2415(863) 904-5936Fax: (863) 904-5936www.elitepursuit.comL. C. JonesInvestigative Services

The FALLS Adventure, Inc.4798 S Florida Ave PMB 184Lakeland, FL 33813-2181(863) 521-4164www.thefallsadventure.orgElizabeth WillersJock R. WillersLeadership/Team Building

Indian Summer Farms3010 Knights Station RdLakeland, FL 33810-2515(863) 937-3645Fax: (863) 937-9262www.indiansummerfarms.comNeil CombeeLewis KingProduce

Mid Florida Villas14344 Evans Ranch RdLakeland, FL 33809-9769(863) 816-2574(866) 387-4435Fax: (863) 816-2639www.midfloridavillas.comAndrew & Bernadette GilchristProperty Management

Richard Pahucki4469 Fairway Oaks DrMulberry, FL 33860-8598(863) 425-2868Richard L. PahuckiConsulting Services

Ricky Lee Insurance2031 E Edgewood Dr Ste 1 Lakeland33803PO Box 2956Lakeland, FL 33806-2956(863) 816-5828Ricky LeeInsurance

TLC Engineering for Architecture874 Dixon BlvdCocoa, FL 32922-5809(321) 636-0274Fax: (321) 639-8986www.tlc-engineers.comMatthew CraigEngineers - Structural

Truly Nolen of America1023 S Florida AveLakeland, FL 33803-1117(863) 683-7378Fax: (863) 686-8197www.trulynolen.comTed HortonPest Control

NEW MEMBERSe Chamber is proud to welcome 15 new members for October 2009

No.10

Through their membership in the Chamber, businesses invest in themselves and their community. We urge you to to “Buy Lakeland. It makes goodcents!” by doing business with these new Chamber members. For the most up-to-date list of members, visit our on-line Preferred Business Directory at LakelandChamber.com!

No.12

The SPCA’s Campus of Kindnessis visited by hundreds of animallovers every day – adopting orphanedanimals and utilizing our full-serviceanimal medical center. Over 8,000dogs and cats enter our adoptioncenter every year, and the animalmedical center serves the pets inour care and public pet owners, too.You can get involved by adopting,volunteering, fostering animals,inviting us to your next event or evenusing our animal medical center foryour next veterinary visit. The SPCAis not funded by any national parentorganization, such as the ASPCA. Ourpets rely on your generosity every day.

We give to them

when you give to us.

www.lovemyspca.com • 863.646.7722

MARK YOURCALENDAR

EVENTS

Thursday, December 10 Business & Breakfast, 7:30 AM

Estates at Carpenters1001 Carpenters Way

Thursday, December 17 Business After Hours, 5:30 PM

Fifth Third Bank & Stone Center2205 E. Edgewood Dr.

Thursday, December 24 and Friday, December 25

Chamber Closed in Observance ofChristmas Holidays

Thursday, December 31Chamber Closed for

New Year’s Eve holidayNoon

Friday, January 1Chamber Closed for New Year’s Day

MEETINGS

Wednesday, December 9Government Affairs, 8:00 AM

BusinessVoice, 9:00 AM

Executive Committee Meeting4:00 PM

Lakeland Yacht and Country Club 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

Thursday, December 10Leadership Lakeland XXVII County Government Day

Tuesday, December 15 EMERGE Lakeland Steering Committee Meeting, 3:45 PM

Wednesday, December 16Board of Directors Meeting

NoonLakeland Yacht and Country Club 929 Lake Hollingsworth Drive

OOCCTTOOBBEERR TTOOUURRIISSMM IINNQQUUIIRRIIEESSDuring the month of October, our Visitor Information Center assisted hundredsof individuals, answering questions pertaining to Chamber member businessesand the Lakeland community.

Walk-in Visitors..................................333Relocation Response Mailings................9Relocation Response (Walk In).............17Accommodations...................................1

Winter Accommodations .......................3Visitor Information Mailings ................ 36Visitor Center E-mail Inquiries.............122

The Catalyst Campaign, the relationships that are formed, the opportunities to build business, and the progress for our community would not be possible without the support of the following companies:

No.14

Nancy Cattarius, WONN/WPCV/WLKF/WWRZ Radio....$37,205Phil Wegman, Furr & Wegman Architects, PA ..............$32,645Mary McQueen, McQueen Marketing, LLC....................$29,565Victor Rodriguez, Lakeland Regional Medical Center .....$24,853Kathy Wallen, The NCT Group CPAs ............................$20,425Cindy Green, Furr & Wegman Architects, PA ................$17,045Sarah Case, JSK Consulting, Inc. .....................................$13,250Brian Yates, CenterState Bank .........................................$12,780Tom Eleazer, Florida Lifestyle Communities.....................$10,320Jennifer Vaughn, Bank of Central Florida ..........................$7,380Kathryn Koch O'Malley, Lanier Upshaw............................$7,295Faye Sanders, Allen & Company of Florida .......................$6,100Johnathan Crain, Two Men and a Truck ............................$5,045Bryan Mau, CPS Investment Advisors ...............................$3,750Thomas Lee, Allen & Company of Florida ........................$1,810Krista Gospodinova, SunTrust Bank...................................$1,000Steve Brechue, Lakeland Regional Medical Center..............$420

And for the support of corporate teams:Watson Clinic....................................................................$22,360Catalyst Campaign Staff ....................................................$19,270Publix Super Markets, Inc .................................................$10,000GEICO.................................................................................$7,000Riverside Bank.....................................................................$1,750

Catalyst Campaign Closes with $291,268…On October 6, the Catalyst Volunteers, led by Chair Nancy Cattarius (WONN/WPCV/WLKF/WWRZ Radio) celebrated a victorious10 week campaign by announcing a total of $291, 268 in Chamber sponsorship and advertising support. Congratulations to our volunteers!

No.15

SAVE THEDATE2009 Chamber Annual MeetingTuesday, February 2, 2010

5:30 pm The Lakeland Center

•Your invitation will bemailed this month!

NEW LAKELAND MAPOPPORTUNITYThe Lakeland Chamber of Commercewill be working with Target Marketingto produce a 2010 Lakeland Map thismonth, which will offer multipleaffordable advertising opportunitiesfor our members.

Trees Planted at Lake MirrorThis year, Catalyst Volunteers and Staff worked hard to design a green campaign.From organic foods and biodegradable party ware to the elimination of paper corre-spondence, everyone was in on the “Growing Green” initiative. In support of con-tinued green space efforts at the City, 11 Chamber members also joined in bysupporting the new Florida-friendly maples planted at Lake Mirror. Those Chambermembers are:

• 2010 Chamber Board Chair Joe L. Ruthven•

Stop by the Chamber to see the renewable bamboo plaque that was created in honor of these fabulous sponsors!

No. 16

19thAnnual Bright House Chamber Scramble

1st Place Net Winner - Bank of Central Florida/Allen & Company TeamL to R, Jimmy Waller, Guy Hill, Paul Noris, Mike Ryan, Sam Nimah, notpictured Fred Lopez

1st Place Gross Winner - Bright House TeamL to R, Teddy Koukoulis, Dr. RichardRadocha, MD, Brian Bierwagen, JackMyers, Drew Gillan and Jim Elswick.

Chairman Mike LaPan—having fun emceeingthe Mid-Florida Awards Reception for theBright House Scramble!

The Chamber’s Board of Directors took part in a very productivestrategic planning retreat on October 2-3, at Florida SouthernCollege (FSC). Directors voted to hold their retreat in Lakelandthis year to support the “Buy Lakeland” campaign and to patronizelocal restaurants. Special thanks to FSC President Anne Kerr forgenerously allowing the Chamber to host our retreat on the FSCcampus and for providing directors a unique opportunity toexperience firsthand the exciting growth and restoration that istaking place there.

As Chair-elect, Joe L. Ruthven (The Ruthvens) presided over thetwo-day planning session.

On Friday morning, Maria Brous (Publix Super Markets, Inc.)presented highlights from the Florida Chamber of CommerceFoundation’s recent cornerstone report, “A Vision for Florida in2030”. The report outlines six economic drivers that will positionFlorida as a global market leader. The presentation served as anexcellent foundation for the strategic planning discussions duringthe retreat.

During the Friday retreat session, Board members heard from thefollowing Vice Chairs of the Chamber’s KSI (Key Strategic Issues)strategy groups that have met over the past six months to developlong-term goals tied to the Chamber’s strategic plan: Communications ..............................................................Sam Nimah

(Southern Wine & Spirits of Florida)Education............................................................................Alice Hunt

(Hunt Construction of Central Florida, Inc.) Organization Advancement..................................Melinda Harrison

(Watson Clinic LLP)Public Policy....................................................................Mark Wilson

(Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.)Smart Community ...........................................................Hugh Autry

(Lakeland Regional Medical Center)

On Friday evening, board members and their guests boarded busesand headed to four member restaurants located throughout thecity. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed patronizing some of theexcellent restaurants we have in Lakeland.

On Saturday, directors worked in breakout sessions to prioritize KSIgoals to implement in the Chamber’s strategic plan. Chair-electRuthven will now work with 2010 KSI Vice Chairs and staff toform strategy groups made up of board members to developmeasurable goals to carry out the Chamber’s vision and mission.

The Chamber would like to extend special thanks to the followingsponsors for hosting this year’s retreat:

Chairman’s Circle – Retreat SponsorThe Ruthvens – Luncheon HostBank of Central Florida – Reception Host

Chamber holds board planning retreat

Chamber Directors Don Bosko, Tony Martinez, Mark Wilson, Gary Cassard,Patrick Fagan and Stacy Campbell-Domineck participate in one of the severalbreakout sessions held in the McKay Archives Center during the retreat.

Pictured above: Chair-elect Joe L. Ruthven leads retreat discussion.Pictured le: e famous architect “Frank Lloyd Wright” (wonderfullyportrayed by a FSC theater student) welcomes retreat attendees to FloridaSouthern College. e campus has the largest collection of Frank LloydWright designed buildings in the world.

No.18

DECEMBER MEMBERS ON THE MOVEBoys & Girls Clubs of Lakeland & MulberryPleased to honor with Boys & GirlsClubs of America National Service toYouth Awards: •Senator Paula Dockery - Outstanding Public Service;

•Tim McCausland, City of Lakeland - 20 years;

•Don Barclay, Rib Crib - 30 years; •Gene Strickland, Retired City of Lakeland - 40 years.

Merit Awards:•John Burton, Sun-N-Fun •Leonard Mass, Drummond Company, Inc.

Alliance for IndependenceProud to announce that Ashley Hall, AFICommunications Coordinator, has beenelected to serve as Vice President of theNorth Lakeland Kiwanis Club for the2009 – 2010 year. Ashley will also serve asthe Public Relations Chair during this year.

St. Joseph’s Academy St. Joseph’s School is now St. Joseph’sAcademy (Preschool - 8th grade) and islocated at 310 McDonald Street in theHistoric Lake Morton District (formerSouthside Baptist facility). The newcampus sits on 4.5 acres and has morethan 66,000 square feet.

The Mahoney Group, Inc.Maria Mahoney, President of The Mahoney Group, Inc. a Lakeland, Floridacommercial real estate brokerage companyrecently attended the National EconomicSummit for Women Business Owners andthe WIPP (Women Impacting PublicPolicy) Annual Legislative Meeting inWashington DC.

Coldwell Banker Residential Real EstatePresents the launch of the first-everinternational home search application foriPhoneTM and AndroidTM-powereddevices. The application literally putshomes in the hands of potential buyersand brings up instant information andproperty photos on the spot.

Lanier Upshaw, Inc.Proud to announce that Mark J. (Josh)Szponar has joined the agency asCommercial Lines Risk Consultant.

Lone Palm Golf ClubLone Palm is proud to announce newExecutive Chef, David Jelenc. Davidjoins us from the Ritz Carlton in Sarasotawhere he served briefly after a 15 yeartenure at the former El ConquistadorCountry Club in Bradenton.

Shield Security Systems, Inc.We've changed our company name to24/7 Shield Security & More since weoffer more than just security systems, andwe wanted to provide piece of mind to ourcustomers knowing they are protected 24hours a day and 7 days a week.

CPS Investment AdvisorsBryan Mau, Regional Director of Retirement Services for CPS InvestmentAdvisors was selected 2009 New Resident“Who’s Who of Central Florida”. Bryanwas selected for his numerous hoursvolunteering for many different not-for-profit organizations and serves on severalboards in the area.

Pleased to announce that Jorge Rivera hasjoined the firm as Staff Accountant.

Rubber & Accessories, Inc.Pleased and proud to announce theappointment of Bradford Merkel to itsOutside Sales Staff.

Senior HelpersJorge Giraldo, MBA, CSA and CEO ofSenior Helpers of Polk County recentlyjoined the Board of Directors for PolkFamily Caregivers. Polk FamilyCaregivers connects caregivers to thevital information and resources in thePolk County community.

Achievement Academy2009 – 2011 Board members were in-stalled: Randy Hollen, Bank of CentralFlorida-President, Adam Airth, Putnam,Creighton & Airth, PA-1st VicePresident, Michael Peeples, SouthernHomes- 2nd Vice President, Gilit Kontny,GG Graphic Designs-Member, LynetteMitchell-Parent Representative.

Central Florida Eye Associates/Jay Mulaney, MDDr. Jay Mulaney published a paper in theEuropean Journal of Ophthalmology (Vol.18) titled "Comparison of daytime efficacyand safety of dorzolamide / timololmaleate fixed combination versus latanoprost". J.Mulaney, S. Sonty, J.A.Stewart, W.C. Stewart.

Straughn Trout Architects, LLCIs pleased to announce that Tim Hoeftand Aaron Banks were recognized in theAIA Tampa Bay’s “40 Under 40” exhibition. This event features fortyimages of built and theoretical projectsfrom those 40 years of age or under.

Watson Clinic LLPCardiologist John G. Canto, MD, MSPH,FACC, FACP, FAHA, FASE, was thesenior author of a recent study publishedin the Archives of Internal Medicine,which has received national recognitionby renowned news outlets, including theLos Angeles Times and the Wall StreetJournal.

Bright House NetworksFor the second year in a row, J.D. Powerand Associates announced that BrightHouse Networks ranked highest incustomer satisfaction in the South regionas a result of the 2009 Internet ServiceProvider Residential Customer Satisfac-tion StudySM . The results of the studyshowed Bright House Networks RoadRunner service having the highest overallperformance in cost of service; customerservice; and billing.

The Lakeland Chamber prints business announcements each month as space permits. Please mail your announcements to the Chamber or e-mail: membersonthemove@LakelandChamber.com

BUSINESSAND BREAKFAST

$5 Chamber Member ~ $15 Non-MemberPlease R.S.V.P. by 5:00 p.m. the day prior to the event. You may register and pay online by using this link: LakelandChamber.com or by E-mailing: tottinger@lakelandchamber.com

ESTATES AT CARPENTERS101 CARPENTERS WAY

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10

7:30 A.M. ~ 9:00 A.M.

No.20

Members gather for October Business After HoursArbor Glen and Two Men and a Truck teamed up to host theOctober Business After Hours. It was a showcase of Chambermembers, as Fresco’s Bakery & Bistro, Southside Package &Lounge, Outback Steakhouse, Tapatio’s Restaurante Mexicano,Chili’s, Hooter’s, Beef O Brady’s, Ciao Bella, Moe's SouthwestGrill, Pipo’s Café, Subway, Smokey Bones, Regal AutomotiveGroup and Dillard’s offered food, drink and door prizes forguests. Arbor Glen staff took members on a tour of the modelsavailable and encouraged everyone to register to win an

autographed Derrick Brooks football or fragrance gift basketfrom Dillard’s. The weather was warm, but the networking washot, as members shared prospects and learned about fellowmembers. The Chamber’s “on call” sound guy, Ken Williamsof Center Door Productions, provided a wonderful soundsystem, despite a little rain and preparations for Friday’s LakeMirror Classic concert. Congratulations to Arbor Glen &Two Men and a Truck – small businesses working together!

Jonathon Crain accepts the Plaque of Appreciation for Two Men and a Truck

e staff of Arbor Glen accepts the Plaque of Appreciation.

Door prizes always bring the crowd to attention.

Members network and exchange business cards

Habitat for Humanity hosts October Business & Breakfast

Becky Bywater welcomes everyone to Lakeland Habitat for Humanity Claudia Tritton, Lakeland Economic Development Council, brings everyoneup to date on Lakeland’s business community.

The October Business & Breakfast made its annual trip toLakeland Habitat for Humanity ReStore located at 1317George Jenkins Blvd. Claudia Tritton, Business DevelopmentDirector at the Lakeland Economic Development Councilbrought members up to date on the economic growth of Lake-land and the surrounding area. The LEDC’s attention to at-tracting diverse businesses and high-skill high-wage jobs haslessened the impact of the recent economic conditions for theCity. Showcasing new buildings and relocating businesses,Claudia’s presentation offered a positive look at Lakeland and

the commitment of local companies to building strong busi-nesses and supporting a strong community. Statistical trendsshow promise as Lakeland and Polk county look to a brighterfuture and hopefully, a quick recovery. Lakeland Habitat forHumanity Executive Director, Claire Twomey shared informa-tion on new partnerships and opportunities for the communityto get involved in building safe, affordable homes. Manythanks to Lakeland Habitat for Humanity, its staff andboard of directors, for a wonderful breakfast, and abeautiful event setting!

On November 24th, after 19 years of service, theLakeland Area Chamber of Commerce said a fondfarewell to one of its longest tenured staff members,Mary Stevenson.

If you have joined the Chamber during the last 19years, Mary has probably processed your membershipapplication, made updates to your membership account, oranswered your membership questions. You’ve seen hersmiling face at Business After Hours, the Luau and ahost of other Chamber events.

A loyal and tireless employee, Mary epitomizes thededication that makes the Lakeland Chamber so great.Congratulations and Best Wishes to Mary and herhusband John, who is also retiring, as they fulfill theirplans to travel and spend time with their family andespecially grandchildren. Thanks, Mary, from all ofthe Chamber members and especially the staff for ajob well done.

Chamber wishes fond farewell to Mary Stevenson

No.22

RIBBON CUTTINGSThe following companies recently celebrated their ribbon cuttings in the month of October.

See the photos on our Web site at LakelandChamber.com.

RIBBON CUTTING THANK YOUSpecial thanks to Mayor Buddy Fletcher, Commissioner Glenn Higgins, Commissioner Jim Verplanck, Commissioner Justin Troller and all of the board membersand Chamber Champions who truly make these ceremonies a special event.

DC’S Sports Bar1015 S Florida Ave • Lakeland, FL 33803863/682-2300 • www.dcssportsbar.com

Flooring America of Lakeland5729 S Florida Ave • Lakeland, FL 33813

863/701-9411 • www.flooringamericaoflakeland.com

Property Management & Realty Innovations, Inc.

5925 Imperial Parkway, Suite 102 •Mulberry, FL 33860863/647-1679 • www.pmriflorida.com

Navesys Incorporated3730 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Suite 2

Lakeland, FL 33803863/395-4815 • www.navesys.com

Harrison School for the Arts750 Hollingsworth Road • Lakeland, FL 33801-5818

863/499-2855 • www.harrisonarts.com

Trinity Medical Center/Nite Owl Urgent Care3242 S Florida Ave • Lakeland, FL 33803

863/646-4000 • www.niteowlpediatrics.com

AT&T Mobility4310 US Hwy 98 N • Lakeland, FL 33809

863/253-2050 • www.att.com

U.S. Security Associates3710 DMG Drive • Lakeland, FL 33811

863/860-0491 • www.ussecurityassociates.com

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$10 Chamber Member ~ $30 Non-Chamber memberYour R.S.V.P. is appreciated! Visit BAH.LakelandChamber.com to register and pay using your credit card or email tottinger@lakelandchamber.com to register and pay at the door.

FIFTH THIRD BANK &STONE CENTER, INC

EVENT LOCATION: STONE CENTER, 2205 E. EDGEWATER DR.

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 17 • 5:30 TO 7:30 P.M.