the chamber is your voice for business in tallahassee · surgical weight-loss options seminar and a...

5-Star Accredited by the U.S. Chamber of CommerceFour-Time Winner Florida Chamber of the YearNational Chamber of the Year

APRIL 2018The Official Publication of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber Is Your Voice for Business in Tallahassee

We Look Forward to Senator Galvano's Leadership as Senate President

Is Your Weight Affecting Your Health

and Well Being?

206 Second Street East Bradenton, FL 34208manateememorial.com

Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Manatee Memorial Hospital. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website.* Individual results may vary. There are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Talk with your doctor about these risks to find out if bariatric surgery is right for you.. 180035

We Can Help Many people who are seriously overweight have tried different diets, medications and professional weight-loss services for years without long-term success. Weight-loss surgery* helps people lose weight by reducing the size of the stomach or bypassing part of the intestines. If you have a BMI greater than 30 and have tried other weight-loss methods, we invite you to call our bariatric coordinator to learn more about our program. Be sure to ask about the Obalon® Balloon System, a non-surgical treatment option that can be swallowed.

Many of the procedures can be done with minimally invasive, laparoscopic approaches. Learn more about:

• Obalon® Balloon System • Gastric sleeve surgery• Lap-Band® adjustable gastric banding system• Gastric bypass surgery

For more information about our program, call 941.708.8055.

Surgical Weight-Loss Options Seminar and a Weight-Loss Support Group are offered each month at Manatee Memorial Hospital. Call 941.708.8055 for more information.

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2 Manatee Chamber of Commerce | April Current 2018ManateeChamber.com

Look around the community. When there’s a local cause or event that your family is passionate about, the Bradenton Herald is probably a part of it. Which is why we’re proud to support small businesses. We’re always here for you & yours.

Supporting what’s important to you.Supporting what’s important to you.To subscribe, call 1.800.748.6666

Shinn & Company

Carr, Riggs & IngramI S N O W A P A R T O F

Top 20 CPA Firm | CRIcpa.com

SARASOTA 50 Central Ave, Ste 910 | BRADENTON 1001 3rd Ave W, Ste 500 | 941.747.0500

3ManateeChamber.com April Current 2018 | Manatee Chamber of Commerce

MAILING ADDRESSP.O. Box 321

Bradenton, FL 34206-0321

BRADENTON OFFICEAT BANK OF THE OZARKS 1901 Manatee Avenue West

Bradenton, FL 34205Phone: 941-748-3411

Fax: 941-745-1877

LAKEWOOD RANCH OFFICEAT THE MCCLURE CENTER

4215 Concept CourtLakewood Ranch, FL 34211

Phone: 941-748-3411Fax: 941-745-1877

[email protected]

MISSION:To build a positive business

environment while enhancingthe community’s quality of life.

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s Current magazine is published monthly and distributed

to more than 3,000 business and community leaders. It is an

advertising medium available only to Chamber members.

FOR ADVERTISINGRATES CONTACT: Michele Slaughter

941-748-4842, ext. 116 [email protected]

The Current magazine is proudly published by

CG&B Publishing, LLC of Bradenton.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEChairman .........................................................................................................Darcie Duncan, Duncan Real EstateImmediate Past Chairman ....................................................................Kevin DiLallo, Manatee Memorial HospitalChairman-Elect .....................................................................................................Bill Poulton, Tropicana ProductsTreasurer ..................................................................................................Christy Cardillo, Shinn & Company, LLCVice Chairman, Community Development & Communications ....................Rick Bisio, The Educated FranchiseeVice Chairman, Membership Development & Services ..................... Ernie Withers, Mercedes-Benz of SarasotaVice Chairman, Public Policy & Small Business ....................Phill Baker, Boyd Insurance & Investment ServicesPresident | CEO ......................................................................... Jacki Dezelski, Manatee Chamber of CommerceBradenton Area Economic Development Corporation ................. Carol Probstfeld, PhD, State College of Florida

MANATEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFFTerri Behling, Vice President, Workforce and Community Development [email protected], ext. 172Kim Dalglish, Vice President, Membership .......................................... [email protected], ext. 121Jacki Dezelski, IOM, President | CEO ................................................ [email protected], ext. 131Tim Estep, Member Engagement Manager ..........................................TimE@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 275Tim Fenimore, Membership Development Representative ................... [email protected], ext. 241 Michael Gallen, Esq., Vice Pres., Public Policy & Small Business [email protected], ext. 124Carole Guevara, Information Specialist .............................................CaroleG@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 200Kimberly Henley, Program & Events Manager [email protected], ext. 139Carey Miller, Office Administrator ......................................................CareyM@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 113 Cara Misiewicz, Executive Assistant, Membership Development ........ [email protected], ext. 122Reba Parrish, Information Specialist .................................................. [email protected], ext. 100Dawn Plavak, Better Business Council Manager [email protected], ext. 114Diane Pluchino, Information Specialist ...................................................... [email protected], ext. 200Lisa Reeder, Executive Assistant, Public Policy & Small Business ...... [email protected], ext. 123Cheryl Richert, Controller of Finance ................................................CherylR@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 115Michele Slaughter, Creative Services Manager...............................MicheleS@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 116

FREE BUSINESS COUNSELING AT THE CHAMBERSCORE "Counselors to America's Small Business"

By appointment only - call 941-748-3411Thursdays, 9:00 - 10:00 - 11:00 AM, Bradenton Office

Tuesdays, 9:00 - 10:00 - 11:00 AM, Lakewood Ranch Office at the McClure Center

Stay up to date with the latest Chamber news and happenings follow us

BOARD OF DIRECTORSJason Bartz, NDC Construction CompanyKevin Baylor, Suncoast Business TechnologiesRichard Bedford, Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Inc.Jennifer Bencie, MD, Florida Dept. of Health - ManateeBruce Body, Raymond James & Associates, Inc.Shirley Bryant, Mayor, City of Palmetto (Ex Officio)Carlos Buqueras, Port Manatee (Ex Officio)Brian Carter, Mauldin & Jenkins CPA, LLCBill Colgate, MD, MCR Health Services, Inc.Janelle Esposito, Esposito Law Group, P.A.Diana Greene, PhD, School Board of Manatee County (Ex Officio)Darren Haimer, Bradenton HeraldSteve Hall, Alltrust InsuranceSharon Hillstrom, Bradenton Area Economic Development CorporationKaren Holbrook, PhD, University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee (Ex Officio) Ed Hunzeker, Manatee Co. Government (Ex Officio)Charlie Kennedy, School Board of Manatee County (Ex Officio)Karen LaPensee, LaPensee Plumbing, Pools & Air

Cara Martin, Southwest Florida Water Management District (Ex Officio)Stewart Moon, Jr., Air & EnergySean Murphy, Beach BistroJohn Nash, Osceola Pines-TimberJeffrey Nickse, Accurate Benefit Solutions, LLCBruce Patneaude, IMG AcademyFrederick Piccolo, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (Ex Officio)Jeff Podobnik, Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Club Wayne Poston, Mayor, City of Bradenton (Ex Officio)Teresa Rawe, MD,TeamHealthWilliam Robinson, Blalock Walters, P.A.Chris Sharek, Sharek Solutions, Inc.Vicki Silver, Feld Entertainment, Inc.Kay-Lynne S. Taylor, New College of Florida (Ex Officio)Brian Thomas, State College of Florida (Ex Officio)Priscilla Whisenant Trace, Commissioner, Manatee County Government (Ex Officio)Doug Van Dyke, Leadership SimplifiedKerry Ward, Bank of the Ozarks


NETWORKING AT A GLANCE

MANATEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFFTerri Behling, Vice President, Workforce and Community Development [email protected], ext. 172Kim Dalglish, Vice President, Membership .......................................... [email protected], ext. 121Jacki Dezelski, IOM, President | CEO ................................................ [email protected], ext. 131Tim Estep, Member Engagement Manager ..........................................TimE@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 275Tim Fenimore, Membership Development Representative ................... [email protected], ext. 241 Michael Gallen, Esq., Vice Pres., Public Policy & Small Business [email protected], ext. 124Carole Guevara, Information Specialist .............................................CaroleG@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 200Kimberly Henley, Program & Events Manager [email protected], ext. 139Carey Miller, Office Administrator ......................................................CareyM@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 113 Cara Misiewicz, Executive Assistant, Membership Development ........ [email protected], ext. 122Reba Parrish, Information Specialist .................................................. [email protected], ext. 100Dawn Plavak, Better Business Council Manager [email protected], ext. 114Diane Pluchino, Information Specialist ...................................................... [email protected], ext. 200Lisa Reeder, Executive Assistant, Public Policy & Small Business ...... [email protected], ext. 123Cheryl Richert, Controller of Finance ................................................CherylR@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 115Michele Slaughter, Creative Services Manager...............................MicheleS@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 116

Business After HoursApril 10 • 5:00 - 7:00 PMTurning Points

MYP Networking SocialApril 12 • 5:00 - 7:00 PMCentral Cafe

Coffee Club & Ten-Minute TakeawayApril 26 • 7:45 - 9:00 AMMedallion Home, CrossCreek, Parrish

FEATURES IN EVERY ISSUE

contents6 Membership Matters: Think Chamber • Your Chamber by the Numbers

7 Advocacy • Legislative Roundtable Provides Key Insight and Connections

9 Do You Know a Champion of Healthcare? • Nominations Deadline This Month • Corporate Sponsorships Available • Reserve Your Table or Seat Now

10 Ship-Shape Showcase • Free Admission for Chamber Members

11 Chamber's New Location

Chamber Open House at Bank of the Ozarks, April 20

12 Project TEACH • Inspire 4th Grade Students

34th Annual Golf Tournament • Save the Date

16 Member Appreciation Cook-out Highlights

18 Public Policy & Small Business • Headliners Lunch: Dr. Diana Greene, Manatee County School Superintendent • Social Media Safety for Teens (and Their Parents!) Seminar • Sales: Strategy & Structure Seminar

19 National Small Business Week • Become a Small Business Champion Sponsor • Join Us for Small Business "Night with the Marauders"

20 Get Your Business "On the Map"

21 Leadership Manatee • Apply Now for Class of 2018-19

Chamber Travel: South Africa

28 Culinary Crawl - Save the Date

8 Platinum Spotlight: Manatee County Government

13 Better Business Council (BBC)

14 Manatee Young Professionals (MYP)

20 Chairman's Circle Members

22 February Coffee Club

23 March Business After Hours

24 Welcome New Members

25 Chamber Friends - Here to Help

26 Power Connection Events

27 Bagels & Benefits Member Reception

28 Ribbon Cutting Celebrations

29 Member News

30 Calendar of Events & Meetings

Pencil, Pen, or Stylus?: Pen. Usually red or green so staff knows who sent the note.

Early Bird or Night Owl?: Both - with this profession you never know.Favorite Meal: Beef Stroganoff (made by my wife on my birthday)

Favorite App: No favorite but I have about 50 on my phoneOn Your Reading List: “Team of Teams” by General Stanley McCrystal

Favorite Manatee County Spot: Robinson PreserveBucket List Travel Destination: Middle East and Asia

Career in Your Next Life: Photography or tennisWhat Tugs at Your Heart: My family - I have a soft spot for each of them

Best Business Advice You’ve Received: Stay humble on the outside and confident on the inside.

It's the same advice I give to my sons.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

spotlightKevin DiLalloManatee Memorial HospitalImmediate Past Chairman


membership matters | think chamber

YOUR CHAMBER BY THE NUMBERS

2,000

Member businesses and organizations,the Manatee Chamber remains thelargest Chamber in the Tampa Bay Area.

With more thanOUR MISSIONTo build a positive business environment while enhancing our community’s quality of life.

68,167 employees of Chamber memberbusiness and organizations

47 RFPs sent to 1,008 member businesses to help

grow their business

150 4th grade classrooms reached with Project TEACH

SOLD OUT the 55th Annual Chamber Dinner with

585 attendees

267 Members received high quality education at a Chamber seminar or workshop

3,157 Member Referrals given out by our front desk

Information Specialists

Scheduled and hosted 301 SCORE consultations

for new and expanding businesses

94 Ribbon Cuttingscelebrating member grand openings, expansions and landmark occasions

In the last 12 months,your Chamber hosted

118 eventsfor the benefit of

our members.

26,000 Visitors to the Chambers two offices,

Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch, both of which are designated as

Official TouristInformation Centers

for Manatee County.

Membersassigned mentors

through the Chamber Friends

ambassador committee:

410 new members in the last 12 Months

IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS...

819 Member press releases sentvia the Chamber’s members-only

Press Release Tool

Despite this year’s challenges, we had several Chamber-backed legislative items pass – and we applaud our community and government partners, business leaders, Chamber volunteers, and State representatives for supporting these important measures.

Legislative Successes: • Opioid abuse prevention legislation that limits the quantity of opioids prescribed to patients, bolsters the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, and implements continued education for opioid prescribers. • Commercial lease tax was decreased from 5.8% to 5.7%. We will continue to advocate for a complete reduction of this Florida- only tax. • Restored $4.5 million in performance-based funding to FDOE so school district postsecondary workforce education programs would be funded at the appropriate level. • Funding was secured for the following: Florida Job Growth Grant Fund $85 million, $53.5 million to fund treatment and prevention of opioid abuse, VISIT Florida $76 million, $500,000 for Centerstone of Florida’s Psychiatric Residency Expansion, $600,000 for Robinson Preserve habitat restoration, and $350,000 for Florida Center for the Partnerships for Arts Integrated Teaching (PAInT) at USF Sarasota-Manatee

Many of the Chamber’s 2018 state legislative priorities were not addressed this year, or failed to pass. We consider these items unfinished business, including but not limited to: legislation to reduce workers’ compensation insurance rates, legislation protecting housing trust funds (Sadowski Act), and restoring recurring funding lost in 2017 for State College of Florida and University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee. We will continue to advocate on these and other priorities as we look toward the 2019 legislative session.

This year’s session was bittersweet as Manatee County will no longer have Representative Jim Boyd as our House District 71 representative. After serving 4 terms (8 years) in the House, Representative Boyd will step down. He has been a champion of our Chamber since taking office, carrying numerous issues over the years that have made significant improvements to our business environment and community as a whole. This year we applaud his stalwart efforts in successfully leading the opioid abuse prevention legislation and associated funding through the legislature. Prior to serving us as a State Representative, he was an outstanding Chamber volunteer, including three years as the Chamber’s Legislative Committee Chairman. The business community thanks him for his outstanding public service.

public policy

Another State legislative session has ended. Once again the unpredictable world of State policymaking is not for the faint of heart, underscoring the value of service of our representatives. Running government is tough business. There’s only so much pie to divvy up, so important trade-offs must be made along with challenging compromises as critical issues are addressed through legislation. During this year’s session, the Manatee Chamber’s Tallahassee team played legislative offense, visiting the capitol and voicing our legislative priorities during committee weeks. We were the voice of business during the most critical period of the lawmaking process as lawmakers determined the fate of bills and prioritized legislation.

During the fall of 2017, our state lawmakers were facing a tight budget year as a result of the significant impacts of Hurricane Irma and the expected costs of the statewide opioid crisis. Our legislative delegation put the warning signals out early and highlighted these concerns at the Manatee Chamber’s pre-session Pancakes & Politics event. As the 2018 session hit the midway point, tragic events unfolded at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida.

This placed even greater pressure on our state representatives, heightening budgetary constraints and creating a public policy firestorm. A new focus enveloped our lawmakers. Senator Galvano explained during the Manatee Chamber’s recent post-session Politics & Pints event that due to the increased demands on the budget, some organizations may not have received the funding they deserve. Senator Galvano led the bi-partisan effort to adopt legislation aimed at avoiding future school shootings and explained that he is not the same person after leading this effort and visiting the site of the shooting.

Legislative Roundtable Provides Key Insightand Connections

Hurricane Irma caused the largest emergency evacuation in Manatee County history when 25,000 people left their homes for temporary shelters. Manatee County was prepared and residents responded in a calm, orderly way thanks to incredible effort from across our community. Officials from County government, law enforcement, Manatee County School District, Department of Health, Red Cross and many others recognized the potential for a devastating storm and worked together to minimize impacts to our community. No one was harmed here, but the storm created enough damage to keep Manatee County Utilities staff working for months with solid waste haulers to remove debris from local roads and neighborhoods.

2017 will be remembered for Hurricane Irma, but many will also recall it as the year Manatee County completed the long-awaited Fort Hamer Bridge. Commissioners for many years had recognized the need to create faster routes for emergency responders in East Manatee and a new evacuation route for residents when storms approach. After a two-year construction, the bridge opened in October, 2017 connecting the two fastest growing areas of the County in Lakewood Ranch and Parrish.

In 2017, our government continued to be a state leader in technology, sustainability and innovation due in part to the County Commission’s direction and philosophy but also thanks to the creative professionals and staff who work here. Last fall Manatee County Emergency Communications Center rolled out the new PulsePoint app that allows first responders to crowdsource Good Samaritans around Manatee County by alerting citizens trained in hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) when someone in a nearby public place suffers sudden cardiac arrest. Manatee County'S 9-1-1 call center also became the second in Florida to adopt new technology that will save emergency responders time when home alarms sound, cutting up to three minutes from call processing time.

Last year our new Redevelopment and Economic Opportunity Department brought new life to efforts to redevelop and revitalize aging areas of the county. The County brought a much-needed connection to our housing, community and economic development projects and programs and developed a strategic work plan for the Southwest District. Using funds from the new district, the County completed our first public-private redevelopment project at the Parkwood Professional Center on 26th Street West.

The Florida Green Building Coalition announced Manatee County as Florida's first platinum-certified Green County Government in 2018, recognizing dozens of County-led sustainable projects, policies and initiatives.

MANATEE COUNTY GOVERNMENT1112 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL 34205 | 941-748-4501| MyManatee.org

Irma Response and Fort Hamer Bridge Highlight Busy Year for Manatee County Government

Do You Know a Championof Healthcare?Nomination Deadline Is this Month Corporate Sponsorships Offer High Visibility for Your CompanyReserve Your Table or Seat Now

6th Annual Champions of Healthcare AwardsMay 17 | Feté Ballroom | 7:30 - 9:30 AM

Nominations Accepted from the Community One of the most important ways you can support the Champions of Healthcare Awards is to nominate a deserving individual, organization or business. Last year's event drew almost 350 attendees and a great deal of media exposure. What a way to celebrate those who are contributing so generously to healthcare in Manatee County. A link to the nomination form will be available online this month so now is the time to consider who you will nominate.

• Institution/Program • Innovation/Research• Adult Volunteer • Youth Volunteer

• Lifetime Achievement• Physician • Nurse • Allied Health Professional • Individual of Merit

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)6 not for profit corporation. Contributions or gifts are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions or gifts may be tax deductible as ordinary and necessary business expenses. Please consult your tax advisor.

PRESENTING SPONSOR: SCHOLARSHIPSPONSOR:

MAJOR MEDIA SPONSOR:

6th Annual Champions of Healthcare AwardsFive years ago, the Manatee Chamber's Healthcare Committee launched the Champions of Healthcare Awards program. It immediately became a signature celebration program for our community. Through these annual awards we recognize the collective actions of the individuals, institutions and programs that have made an extraordinary impact in the Manatee County healthcare community and whose acts reflect dedication to excellence in their area of expertise beyond the scope of their profession.

Corporate Sponsorships Available for Significant ExposureAnother way to support these awards and get great exposure for your business is through a Corporate Sponsorship of the Champions of Healthcare Awards. These sponsorships are $1,100 and include a table at the event in addition to a number of publicity and recognition opportunities. Secure your sponsorship now for maximum impact!

Make Your Event Reservation Today - Awards Breakfast is May 17Make you reservations now. You may reserve individual tickets or secure a table sponsorship online or by calling Lisa Reeder at 941-748-4842, ext. 123.

APRIL 517th Annual

Ship-Shape Showcase

APRIL 12-13Big Bank Theory

APRIL 20Open House @ Chamber

Offices @ Bank of the Ozarks

MAY 11Project TEACH

MAY 176th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards

JUNE 23Culinary Crawl

AUGUST 1739th Annual Small Business

of the Year Awards

NOVEMBER 7 Chamber Expo

NOVEMBER 30Member Appreciation Cookout @ Lakewood

Ranch Office

DECEMBER 7 34th Annual

Golf Tournament

2nd MONDAY EVERY MONTH

Headliners Luncheon

HOLD THESE 2018

CHAMBERDATES

CORPORATE SPONSORS:

A/V PARTNER:

PROGRAMSPONSOR:


FREE ADMISSION FOR CHAMBER MEMBERS

Thursday, April 5 | 4:00 – 7:00 PM at Port Manatee, 300 Tampa Bay Way, Palmetto

JOIN US & ENJOY:Chamber Member Exhibit Booths • Networking • Cash Bar

Door Prizes • Entertainment • Complimentary Lite Bites Narrated Tours of the Port • Interactive Photo Booth

Complimentary Food Provided by:Anna Maria Oyster Bar • Southeast Culinary Arts • Kona Ice

Sonny’s BBQ • Riverhouse Reef & Grill • Bowled Life

Don’t Miss the Boat!CONNECT • EAT • TOUR • ENJOY!

Door Prizes and a Grand Prize Drawing

Presenting Sponsor:

BEVERAGE SPONSORS:

BINGOSPONSOR:

“Historic” Manasota Memorial Park & Funeral Home Palms-Robarts Memorial Park & Funeral Home

ENTERTAINMENTSPONSOR:

BARSPONSOR:

CORPORATE SPONSORS:

GRAND PRIZESPONSOR:

PHOTO BOOTH PROVIDED BY:PORT TOUR SPONSOR:

GOODIE BAG SPONSOR:


This is what peak performance looks like.

Only one real estate broker works so hard, knows the market so intimately and considers

the extra mile her first step. Meet Darcie Duncan. She’s been serving Anna Maria Island and

the Bradenton area for more than 28 years. Put the power of her experience to work for you.

Browse our listings at TeamDuncan.com/listings

941.779.0304 | Luxury Residential • Investment PropertiesVacation Rentals • Property Management

Manatee Chamber on the MoveBradenton Operations Moving to 1901 Manatee Ave. W. on the 2nd Floor of the Bank of the Ozarks Building

Construction of Mixed-Use Project Soon Underwayand Will Include New Space for the Chamber

Your Chamber is on the move! We shared with you in last month’s Current that the Chamber is vacating its building in downtown Bradenton. The City is undertaking an exciting mixed-use project that will include retail/commercial space and four levels of parking utilizing a portion of the existing City surface parking lot. The Chamber determined that the best path forward would be to allow demolition of our existing building to enable the City’s project to span the entire block along 3rd Ave. W. Once construction is complete, the Chamber will have brand-new, ground-level space for our Bradenton operations on the same corner at 10th St. W. and 3rd Ave. W. that we occupy now within the four-story project.

In the meantime, we will relocate to the 2nd floor of the Bank of the Ozarks building at 1901 Manatee Ave. W. We encourage our members to stop by and see us in our temporary space. We will still offer members, residents, and visitors alike the one-stop convenience of connecting to Chamber members, local information, and resources through both of our offices. This space will complement the Chamber’s Lakewood Ranch facility and operations at 4215 Concept Ct.

Our move will take place between April 5 - April 10. We will likely have a very short period of time (approximately 2-3 business days) when our Bradenton-based staff will be focused on moving and unpacking. The phones will still ring and emails will still come through, but we ask for your understanding if we’re difficult to reach on those few days. Operations at our Lakewood Ranch office should not experience any downtime.

It’s an exciting time to envision the future of our Bradenton operations. We are grateful for the hospitality the entire Bank of the Ozarks team is extending. We’re confident that the Chamber “won’t miss a beat” in serving our members and our community during this transition time. Several Chamber committees will still meet at our temporary space, but be sure to check your meeting notices carefully as some that typically take place in Bradenton will move to the Chamber’s Lakewood Ranch office or to other locations.

If you have not yet stopped by to “sign the door” at our Bradenton office, I encourage you to do so! You have until April 9 to add your name to the door as a way to commemorate the 50+ years the Chamber has carried out its mission while housed in our current building.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR: Please join us on Friday, April 20 for an “open house”. It will be a “drop in” event from 12:00-6:00 PM and a great way to visit with our team and fellow Chamber members. Details are in the box at right and the open houset is sponsored by Bank of the Ozarks.

ChamberOpen House

at Bank of the Ozarks

Friday, April 20

12:00-2:30 PMLunch at the Food Trucks

3:00 - 6:00 PMDrinks & Hors d’Oeuvres

Music | ConnectionsTours | Chamber Fun

No RSVP Required


Inspire 4th Grade StudentsVolunteer for Project TEACHFriday, May 11th

When you were in 4th grade, what career did you want? Are you currently working in that field? Are you working at the job you always dreamed of? On Friday, May 11 we are asking volunteers throughout the business community to help us with Project TEACH. The program, Teach Everyone About Career Horizons, is designed to discuss career choices and emphasize success in school.

Another objective of the program is the importance of first impressions. As a volunteer, you’ll assist students as they create a business card representing the career they hope to have in the future. You will share your experiences with them and open their eyes to new careers in our area. For many students, this is one of the first times they have had a business volunteer in their classroom and the first time they have been exposed to careers other than those of their parents.

We need more than 130 volunteers to reach every 4th

grade class. Encourage your co-workers to participate as well!

Volunteering is EASY and takes only a few hours of your time the morning of May 11. We begin with an orientation breakfast at 7:30 AM at Freedom Village, sponsored by the Manatee Education Foundation. During this breakfast, volunteers will be given all instructions and supplies. After orientation, volunteers travel to their assigned schools to present Project TEACH from 9:00 - 10:00 AM. If you have volunteered in the past, you do not need to attend orientation, you can pick up your packet at the Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s temporary location on the second floor of Bank of the Ozarks, 1901 Manatee Ave. W, Bradenton.

For more information, please see the volunteer flyer in this month’s issue of the Current. You may also call Terri at 941-748-4842, ext. 172 or email [email protected].

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Save the

Date!

Friday, December 7

BRADENTON COUNTRY CLUB

Our members will be among the first to play on the

newly upgraded course

FOR MORE INFORMATIONKim Dalglish, 941-748-4842, ext. 121

[email protected]/Golf


SPONSORSHIPOPPORTUNITIESAVAILABLE!


ManateeChamber.com/BBC

Top BBC Referral Categories in

FebruaryRoofing

Home Repair/Remodeling

Plumbing

Pleasewelcome new BBC Member: John and Joanne (Jo Jo) Bradshaw, owners of Lyteworks.

Tips for Using Peer-to-PeerPayment Systems and AppsOnline peer-to-peer, or P2P, payment systems let you send money to people quickly. There are several mobile peer-to-peer apps out there already and banks are getting into the game. If you use a peer-to-peer payment system, here are some tips to keep in mind.

• In many apps, when you receive a payment, the money is added to your P2P system balance. It’ll remain there until you transfer it to your bank account or use it for another transaction within the system. If you transfer the balance to your bank account, confirm that the deposit went through. The transfer could take a few days or even longer if it’s flagged for additional review.

• Scammers try to get you to pay them in many different ways, including by sending money online, so make sure you know who you’re sending money to. If you use the service to receive money from someone you don’t know personally, transfer the money to your bank account and make sure the money is there before you send any goods. Read the terms of service if you’re not sure if these kinds of transactions are permitted on the service you use.

• Peer-to-peer payment systems require access to your financial information, so check your account settings to see if you can enable additional security measures that aren’t on by default. Consider turning on multi-factor authentication, requiring a PIN, or using fingerprint recognition like Touch ID.

• Some systems or apps might share information about your transactions on social media. Check social media permissions or settings, some may be set to share your information with everyone by default. Adjust your settings based on what you’re comfortable sharing.

Check out more tips from the FTC and this article from Alvaro Puig, Consumer Education Specialist, at www.FTC.gov.

Testimonial"We used Armstrong Brothers Plumbing Services and we were very pleased with

the outcome. Thank you to the BBC for recommending their business."

-Joan Riggerello

Proud 2011 Chamber Business of the Year

9115 58th Drive EastBradenton FL 34202

941-753-7574

Is your websiteMOBILE FRIENDLY?


Be On the Lookout for More Networking OpportunitiesMYPonline.com

Thursday April 12 • 5:00 - 7:00 PMMYP Networking Social

Central Café 906 Manatee Avenue East, Bradenton, 34208

Young Professionals are invited to join Manatee Young Professionals (MYP) members and guests for casual business networking in a great social setting. MYP Networking

Social will be hosted by Central Cafe on Thursday, April 12 from 5:00 - 7:00 PM. There is no cost to attend for paid MYP members or for those who join on-the-spot.

Cost is $5 for all others. Complimentary appetizers and a cash bar are included. No RSVP necessary. Bring your business cards and bring a friend!

Next Month's Social Date:May 10

April 20 • 9:30 - 11:30 AMMYP Community Service Project

Feeding Empty Little Tummies936 14th Street West, Bradenton, 34205

Young Professionals are needed to help fill backpacks with non-perishable food. The backpacks are then distributed to 32 schools in Manatee County. To RSVP

contact Kimberly at 941.748.4842 ext. 139 or email [email protected]

Thursday, April 19 • 11:45 AM – 1:00 PMMYP Professional & Personal Development Series

Finance & Investing for Young ProfessionalsManatee Chamber Lakewood Ranch Office at the McClure Center

4215 Concept Court, Lakewood Ranch, 34211 Our speaker will be Derek Williams, CFP, Williams Wealth Management Group

The MYP Professional Development series gives MYP members the chance to connect over topics that will help young professionals grow personally and professionally. Each lunch in the series features a topic presented by a professional followed by

a facilitated discussion. The cost is $25 per session, which includes lunch.

For more information contact Kimberly at 941.748.4842 ext. 139or email [email protected]

Wednesday, April 25 • 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM

MYPower Networking LunchCleveland Kitchen

2539 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, Lakewood Ranch, 34211MYPower Networking Luncheons give young professionals the opportunity

to promote your business products and services.

This month's speaker is Chris Scott, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

Cost: $15 for paid MYP members, $20 for all guestsRSVP is required: Call Kimberly at 941-748-4842, ext. 139

or email [email protected]

MYP MarchSocialGood Liquid Brewing Co.

NEWEVENT


Check out photos and upcoming events at MYPonline.com

THANK YOU MYP WORKFORCE PARTNERS: THANK YOU FRIENDS OF MYP SPONSORS:


Thank you to all of our members who joined us for our 4th Annual Member Appreciation Cook-out at the Chamber’s Bradenton office. John Rice and his grill team served up delicious hot dogs and brats, donated by the Pittsburgh Pirates, and even gave away a brand new barbecue grill to one lucky member.

We shared a lot of laughs and enjoyed spending our Friday afternoon with so many friends. This was a wonderful opportunity to show our appreciation for your investment in the Manatee Chamber and for supporting our mission.

Member Appreciation Cook-out

THANK YOUto Our Sponsors:

It's All About Our Members!

Manatee County Approved the Additional School Millage -What Are the Next Steps to Take Manatee County Schoolsto the Next Level? What does the recent passage of an additional mill for public schools mean to you and your business? Dr. Diana Greene was sworn in as Superintendent in May of 2015. Since that day, the School District of Manatee County has made positive strides forward academically, financially and in terms of its public perception.

Bring your questions and join us to hear what plans are on the horizon to keep our teachers, help our students and bring our school district up to another level.

Social media can be a difficult playground. Being a parent has never been tougher than in this connected age and it's important to keep your kids' socializing fun and safe.

Bring your teen / pre-teen and learn: • What platforms are popular with kids and what are their vulnerabilities • Safe image sharing online • Location sharing and what it tells the world • How to check and set appropriate security privacy levels on apps • Cyberbullying • Online predators are watching

This will be a lively discussion with straight talk about the dangers and challenges of social media. We invite you to attend with your child, age 10+, and learn together how to navigate the social media waters.

The Future of Manatee County SchoolsDr. Diana Greene | Manatee County School Superintendent

Monday, April 911:30 AM to 1:15 PM

Rosedale Golf & Country Club5100 87th St. East, Bradenton

$30 Manatee Chamber & MYP Members $45 Potential Members

RSVP: Lisa Reeder, 941-748-4842, ext. [email protected]

ManateeChamber.com/Headliners

Plan to join us for lunch on May 14 for our next Headliner Series with Mayor Shirley Bryant, Carl Callahan, City of Bradenton and Rex Jensen of Schroder-Manatee Ranch, Inc. as we look at East/West Development.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

These events are open dialogues designed to allow members the opportunity to dialogue and interact with our speakers.

Wednesday, May 2 | 3:00 - 4:30 PMManatee Chamber Lakewood Ranch Office at the McClure Center

4215 Concept Court, Lakewood RanchParents with kids age 10 and above are invited to attend this FREE event.

Social Media Safety for Teens (and Their Parents!)SEMINAR | Kevin McNulty, NetWeave Social Networking

Sales: Strategy & StructureSEMINAR | Jamie Kane, Sandler Training

As a sales manager (or business owner who “sells” and “manages”) do you struggle to communicateyour mission, vision and values? Does your team really understand the strategy?

This is an active workshop for owners and managers who are serious about:• Selecting and hiring the best salespeople.• Effectively onboarding to jump-start and maximize performance.• Directing, coaching and mentoring.• Increasing revenues and improving margins.

Bring “real life” business issues and case studies. You can’t afford to miss this presentation to grow your business!

Tuesday, April 24 | 9:00 to 11:00 AMManatee Chamber Lakewood Ranch Office at the McClure Center

4215 Concept Court, Lakewood Ranch

$27 Non-Profit Chamber Members$30 Manatee Chamber and MYP Members

$45 Potential Members

RSVP: Lisa Reeder, 941-748-4842, ext. [email protected] | ManateeChamber.com/Events

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

SEMINARS


Become a Small Business Champion SponsorChamber Celebrates Small Business Week with Promotion, Networking, and Baseball!

$250 Sponsor Package Includes: • Recognition in the May issue of Current magazine

• Social Media Recognition on the Chamber’s Facebook Page • Special Recognition at the Chamber’s 39th Annual

Small Business of the Year Awards Ceremony on August 17

• Two (2) Game Package Tickets to "Night with the Marauders" on May 3 (see details below)• Business listed on the stadium jumbo-tron at the May 3 Marauders Baseball Game

• Opportunity to set up display table at May 3 Marauders Baseball Game (limited availability)

$28 Marauders Game Package Includes: One Game Ticket - Baseline Boxed Reserved Seat • Boardwalk BBQ Meal • Marauders Baseball Hat

Entry into Marauders Raffle • Networking on the Boardwalk!

All Chamber Members Invited toJoin Us For Small Business "Night with the Marauders"

Enjoy the game and celebrate with us on the boardwalk as we watch the Marauders take on the Dunedin Blue Jays while you network with other small business members in the community.

Thursday, May 3 | 5:30 PM BBQ on the Boardwalk | 6:30 PM First PitchLECOM Park | RSVP: ManateeChamber.com/Baseball

April 29 - May 5, 2018

Small Businesses are the Foundation of Our Community. When we support small business, jobs are created and local communities preserve their unique culture.

National Small Business Week is April 29 to May 5 and the Manatee Chamber is excited to celebrateall week long. From print advertising to social media exposure to recognition at LECOM Park, we are offering an exciting sponsorship package for maximum exposure for your business.

For More Information contact: Lisa Reeder, 941-748-4842, ext. [email protected] | ManateeChamber.com/Events


SILVER MEMBERS

GOLD MEMBERS

BRONZE MEMBERS

PLATINUM MEMBERS

®

ittsburgh irates aseball

Deadline to Reserve Ad Space:

Friday, June 8

Get Your Business"On the Map"Advertising opportunities for the Chamber’s 2017 Manatee County Street Map and Resource Guide are now available! This

updated, full-color Manatee Area Street Map and Resource Guide is an effective way to promote your business on more than 15,000 maps distributed by the Chamber, Bradenton Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, Manatee County Tax Collector and others.

It is the only official map endorsed

and distributed by the Manatee Chamber of Commerce and it's produced by fellow Chamber member, Target Marketing Inc.

Accurate, user-friendly maps are a popular item for our newcomers, potential commercial relocation candidates and even our lifelong residents. Many of the 24,000+ annual visitors to both Manatee Chamber offices ask for a map!

Don't miss out on the unique member opportunity to reach potential buyers, new residents and new partners by "putting your business on the map!" Sponsorships are reasonable, especially considering more than 15,000 maps will be printed and available for the next year. Space is limited, so please contact us TODAY!

LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE ON A FIRST RESPONSE BASIS!

To reserve your ad space,

call Target Marketing800-933-3909

You may also email [email protected]

or call 941-748-4942 ext. 116for more information.

ANNA MARIA • BRADENTON • BRADENTON BEACH

CORTEZ • ELLENTON • HOLMES BEACH • LAKEWOOD RANCH

LONGBOAT KEY • MYAKKA CITY • PALMETTO • PARRISH

ManateeChamber.com • 941-748-3411222 10th Street West, Bradenton • 4215 Concept Court, Lakewood Ranch


South Africa’s attraction lies in its remarkably untamed wilderness with its astonishing range of wildlife roaming freely across massive game reserves and is a must-do on your bucket list! Enjoy picturesque game drives, the fine beaches of Cape Town, garden tours, cultural attractions, wine tastings and much more.

SOUTH AFRICA ADVENTURE

Pricing starts at just$3,695 per person

October 20-29, 2018

For more information, contact Carey Miller at 941-748-4842, ext. 113

For a full itinerary & registration form, visit: ManateeChamber.com/Africa

SPECIAL Applications for the Class of 2018-2019 are Available Online

Leadership Manatee is one of our community’s best programs! Class members are lead through twelve comprehensive days throughout Manatee County. They learn more about our community’s education system, government, law enforcement, industries, agriculture and more! A critical factor in participant selection is identifying those individuals who are civically active and are most apt to use their leadership knowledge and skills for the long-term benefit of Manatee County.

Applications are posted on the Chamber’s website – ManateeChamber.com.

For more information about theprogram, please contact Terri

at 941-748-4842, ext. 172 or email [email protected].

Apply NOW!Facebook.com/ManateeChamber

GIVE US A LIKEAND STAY UP TO DATE!

LocalQuotes4U.com


coffee club

On behalf of the entire team at Blake Medical Center, thank you to everyone who attended February’s Manatee Chamber Coffee Club. We hope you enjoyed the food and conversation as much as we did!

At Blake Medical Center, our mission is to provide exceptional care to every patient, every time. Our team of skilled and compassionate employees, physicians and volunteers dedicate themselves to living that mission every day.

For over 40 years, we have been a provider of quality healthcare in Manatee County and our surrounding communities. From elective life-improving services to emergent lifesaving services, we continue to evolve to meet your healthcare needs.

We look forward to seeing everyone at the Blake Medical Center Business After Hours on Tuesday, July 10th!

Blake Medical Center2020 59th St. W.. Bradenton, FL 34209

941-792-6611| BlakeMedicalCenter.com


business after hoursAt AutoNation Ford Bradenton, our mission is to provide you and your family with a peerless Customer Experience, each and every visit. Whether it's a pleasurable and low pressure sales experience in our friendly showroom, or top-quality vehicle maintenance or repair at our service department--we strive every day to make sure that you are a fan for life.

Located in South Bradenton (on Highway 41 just a few miles north of the Sarasota Bradenton Airport), AutoNation Ford Bradenton is focused on a relaxed and comfortable shopping experience for Customers. Our sales team is very knowledgeable about all new & Certified Ford vehicles. Whether you're looking for a Focus for your daily commute to Tampa or an F-150 – America’s Best Selling Truck for 40 years! Let our staff give you all of the information you need to make a smart decision. Plus, be sure to ask us about the new Ford Bronco that’s on the way!

When it comes to pre-owned vehicles at AutoNation Ford Bradenton, you can’t argue with our prices. Even better, you don’t have to. We’re proud to offer AutoNation 1 PRICE Pre-Owned vehicles. That means no-hassle and no back and forth. Our low prices are clearly marked on every Pre-Owned vehicle. Plus, every 1 PRICE Pre-Owned Certified vehicle is inspected in 125 places and includes a 5-Day, 250 Mile Money-Back Guarantee.

Looking for a top-notch service experience? AutoNation Ford Bradenton is a great way to keep your vehicle on the road and running just right. Our service team consists of Ford-trained Advisors & Technicians that make servicing your vehicle simple & easy. And, we’re proud to offer AutoNation Precision Parts like oil filters, wiper blades, and batteries with an available lifetime warranty. When you add all of these things together, AutoNation Ford Bradenton makes servicing your car or truck fast, simple and easy.

But it’s not just about selling & servicing cars and trucks. AutoNation is on a mission to help drive out breast cancer. As part of our company’s Drive Pink initiative to raise funds & awareness for cancer, AutoNation puts a pink plate on every car sold or serviced. To date, AutoNation has committed over $12 Million to cancer-related research & treatment centers, coast to coast.

If you live in the Bradenton, Sarasota, or Bayshore Gardens areas, you can count on AutoNation Ford Bradenton for all of your automotive needs… today and down the road. Drive Pink, Drive Safe and Drive Now at AutoNation Ford Bradenton.

AutoNation Ford5325 14th St. W., Bradenton, FL 34207

(941) 708-4503 | AutoNationFordBradenton.com


Homestead Funding Corp.6273 Lake Osprey Dr., Ste. 14Sarasota, FL 34240homesteadfunding.com(941) 362-2895Mortgages and Brokers

Inhale Salt Spa4815 Manatee Ave. W.Bradenton, FL 34209inhalesaltspa.com(941) 900-6973Health and Wellness

ITelagen, LLC5901 N. Honore Ave.Sarasota, FL 34243itelagen.com(877) 983-2443Information Technology

Law Office of William C. Price III P.A.522 12th St. W.Bradenton, FL 34205wcpricelaw.com(941) 747-8001Attorneys

MI-BOX Gulf Coast5620 14th St. W.Bradenton, FL 34207getmibox.com(941) 777-7269Storage and Warehousing

Michael Saunders & Company - JoDene Moneuse440 Gulf of Mexico Dr.Longboat Key, FL 34228LongboatKeyLiving.com(941) 302-4913Real Estate - Residential

Parkwood Dental5315 4th Ave. Cir. E.Bradenton, FL 34208parkwooddental.us(941) 753-1432Dentists

Pleasant Lake RV Resort6633 53rd Ave. E.Bradenton, FL 34203pleasantlake.com(941) 756-5076Recreational Vehicle Resorts

Savantage Solutionssavantage.net(619) 961-7067Computer Software andConsulting Services

Sheryl Lowe(941) 773-9263Individual Members

new members5-Star Staffing Solutions, LLC5-starstaffing.com(813) 379-2530Employment and Temporary Help Agencies

Access Medical6812 Belmont TerraceLakewood Ranch, FL 34202access-medical.com(773) 308-7950, ext. 201Health and Wellness

Acropolis Greek Taverna229 N. Cattleman Rd., Unit 70Sarasota, FL 34243AcropolisTaverna.com(941) 355-4134Restaurants, Cafes and Taverns

Allan Mestel Photography6842 Gulf of Mexico Dr.Longboat Key, FL 34228mestelphoto.com(941) 807-7676Photography - Photographers

AMI RadioPO Box 267Bradenton Beach, FL 34217annamariaislandradio.com(941) 524-5207Entertainment

Andrick & Associatesandrickandassociates.com(941) 351-6565Mail and Direct Mail Services

Animal Network, Inc.animalnetworkinc.com(240) 481-1522Animal Shelters and Rescue Operations

Beacon Counseling1103 9th Ave. W.Bradenton, FL 34205BeaconCounseling.net(941) 479-2211Counseling - Psychological and Psychotherapy

Beam Software6771 Professional Pkwy. W., Ste. 101Lakewood Ranch, FL 34240beamsoftware.com(800) 212-2326Computer Software and Consulting Services

Blue Door Spa & Salon5234 E. State Rd. 64Bradenton, FL 34208bluedoorspaandsalon.com(941) 747-0111Salon and Spa Services

Brewer's Nursery15110 State Rd. 64 E.Bradenton, FL 34212brewerslandscapeservices.com(941) 746-0333Nurseries and Landscape Suppliers

Carole Zoellner(941) 737-2655Individual Members

Chel, LLCdivorcewellnesscoach.com(941) 877-1978Divorce Counselors

Clean Juice5215 University Pkwy., Ste. 104Sarasota, FL 34201cleanjuice.com(941) 822-8160Health and Wellness

Escape Reality6250 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd.Sarasota, FL 34243escaperealitysarasota.com(941) 806-5858Activities and Amusements

Farquest, LLC316 40th St. Ct. N.W.Bradenton, FL 34209(941) 725-7371Cabinets - Design, Sales, Installation

Fiorelli Winery & Vineyards4250 County Road 675Bradenton, FL 34211fiorelliwinery.com(941) 322-0976Wine - Retail or Wholesale

Florida Research Institute10920 Technology TerraceLakewood Ranch, FL 34211floridaresearchinstitute.com(941) 727-7772Medical - Research

Gulf Coast Wealth Advisors - Jeff LaBelle1 South School Ave., Ste. 501Sarasota, FL 34237gulfcoastwealthadvisors.com(941) 362-0700Financial Planning and Services

Help Where You Can, Inc.PO Box 20325Bradenton, FL 34205(941) 448-6350Non-Profit Organizations

Skyway Memorial Garden and Funeral Home5200 U.S. Hwy. 19 NPalmetto, FL 34221skywaymemorial.com(941) 722-4543Funeral and Cremation Services - Cemeteries

Suddath Relocation4756 122nd Ave. N.Clearwater, FL 33762suddath.com(727) 573-0000Movers

Summerfield Assisted Living3409 26th St. W.Bradenton, FL 34205summerfieldassistedliving.com(941) 751-7200Retirement Communities and Homes

Sun Communities Horseshoe Cove RV Resort5100 60th St. E.Bradenton, FL 34203horseshoecoverv.com(941) 758-5335Recreational Vehicle Resorts

Suncoast Auto Repair5400 14th St. W.Bradenton, FL 34207suncoastautorepair.com(941) 727-5506Automotive Repair and Parts

Sunshine Paintingsunshinepaintingfl.com(941) 888-3101Painting Contractors

The Motorcoach Store3231 59th Dr. E., Unit 102Bradenton, FL 34203themotorcoachstore.com(941) 896-4819Recreational Vehicles

Tide & Moon, LLC1209 3rd Ave. W.Bradenton, FL 34205(941) 708-1950Art and DIY Workshops

Tropical Breeze Realty of SW FL, LLC2011 Bispham Rd.Sarasota, FL 34231tropicalbreezerealty.com(941) 914-9644Real Estate - Residential

Visible Men Academy921 63rd Ave. E.Bradenton, FL 34203vmacademy.org(941) 758-7588Schools and Education


Interested in Becominga Chamber Friend?

Contact Cara Misiewicz at 941-748-3411

Chamber Friends are seasoned members

well-versed in Chamber benefits and services tohelp you get the most

out of your membership. These “ambassadors”

of the Chamber help us welcome new members, re-engage existing members,

and ensure that all feel connected.

Justin PhillipsMinuteman Press of Bradenton

Chamber Friend

Chamber Friends

Are Hereto Help


Chamber Member Cost to Attend: $15RSVP and register online at ManateeChamber.com/Events.

Questions? Call Cara Misiewicz at 941-748-4842, ext 122 or email [email protected]

Power Connection Breakfast and Power Connection Lunch are members-only networking events.

Make Powerful Connections Power Connection events are great opportunities to network and connect in a

setting that allows for one-on-one, B2B interaction. Attendees are invited to give a brief commercial on their business, products, and services.

LUNCH

BREAKFAST

Wednesday, April 18 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM

Anna Maria Oyster Bar Landside/Halfway Lounge

6906 14th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34207

Wednesday, May 211:30 AM to 1:00 PM

Riverhouse Reef & Grill995 Riverside Dr.

Palmetto, FL 34221

Thursday, April 127:30 to 9:00 AM

The Granary 2547 Lakewood Ranch Blvd.

Bradenton, FL 34211

SPONSORED BY:

Advance Care PHARMACY 941-212-6666

7016 US Hwy 301-N Ellenton, FL 34222

in the RIDGEWOOD PLAZA Ace Hardware and T-mobile

WE ARE THE PREFERRED PHARMACY FOR:

- SILVERSCRIPTS/WELLCARE - ENVISION Welcome SDMC Employees

- EXPRESS SCRIPTS - AETNA - CIGNA - MEDICARE/MEDICAID PLANS - AND MANY MORE INSURANCES

PAY LOWER OR $0 COPAYS WITH US

WE ACCEPT MOST INSURANCES

FREE DELIVERY FREE SHIPPING SERVICE WITH A SMILE ————————

ADVANCE CARE PHARMACY

941-212-6666 FREE $30

IN STORE CREDIT WITH TRANSFER OF 4 RXS


Need to brush up on your Chamber member benefits?

This reception is a great opportunity to learn more aboutthe Manatee Chamber, meet the staff, and hear about themany member benefits available to you. Let us help you

take full advantage of your membership. All members are welcome! Your RSVP is appreciated.

Register online at ManateeChamber.com/Events

SPONSORED BY:

Thursday, April 19 | 7:45 - 9:30 AM

Tuesday, May 22 | 3:00 - 4:30 PMManatee Chamber Lakewood Ranch Office

at the McClure Center4215 Concept Court, Lakewood Ranch 34211

For more information or to RSVP, contact Kimberly at [email protected] or 941-748-4842, ext. 139.

Thanks for voting us Number One for 19 years! Locally Owned and Operated

www.WagnerRealty.com Proud 2011 Chamber Business of the Year


941-753-7574

Increase your exposure!

Are you invisible on the SEARCH ENGINES?

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce offers our company valuable networking and marketing opportunities. I have connected to many clients through Chamber events, committees and referral services. Making new contacts is imperative in any business and the Chamber promotes this. The Chamber provides many opportunities to meet new people through Business After Hours, Business Expos, and Breakfast Clubs in a fun and relaxing atmosphere.

-Ernie Withers, Mercedes-Benz of Sarasota

Member Testimonial


ribbon cuttings

Bowled LifeGrand Opening

600 Old Main StreetBradenton, FL 34205

941-257-9235 Facebook.com/BowledLife

Acropolis Greek TavernaGrand Opening

229 N. Cattlemen Rd., Unit 70Sarasota, FL 34243

941-355-4134AcropolisTaverna.com

Feeding Empty Little Tummies936 14th Street WestBradenton, FL 34205

941-896-7870 FELTinc.org

Global Boarding Water Sports Anna Maria Island

Grand Opening9917 Manatee Avenue West

Bradenton, FL 34209941-242-9478

GlobalBoardingAMI.com

“Historic” Manasota Memorial Parkand Funeral Home

Remodel1221 53rd Ave. E.

Bradenton, FL 34203941-755-2688

ManasotaMemorial.com

McPherson 5 FoundationGrand Opening202 13th Ave.

Bradenton, FL 34208941-780-6822

amac5.org

SAVE THE

DATE!SaturdayJune 23

11:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Sponsorships Available for Great Business

ExposureFor More

InformationContact Terri at

941-748-4842, ext. 172 [email protected]



Boys & Girls Club of Manatee County is pleased to announce Kalista Khadaran has been named the Youth of the Year, a prestigious honor bestowed upon an exemplary young person in recognition of leadership, service, academic excellence and dedication to live a healthy lifestyle.

Humane Society of Manatee County has earned a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest independent charity evaluator. This is the second consecutive time that Humane Society of Manatee County has earned this top distinction.

Realize Bradenton selected Amber Grace to serve on its Board of Directors for a three-year term.

Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (BACVB) has announced the appointment of Judith Tilton to the newly created role of Director of Cultural Affairs.Bank of America welcomes Jamie Kahns as its new Sarasota Manatee Market Manager.

member newsPIER 22 recently received eight first-place awards in the Manatee Reader's Choice contest.

Shinn & Company has merged with top 20 CPA and advisory firm Carr, Riggs & Ingram, LLC (CRI). The Shinn & Company team joins more than 1,800 CRI professionals currently serving clients across the Southern U.S.



941-753-7574

Join the Conversation!

Have you been avoiding SOCIAL MEDIA?

CONGRATULATIONS To the 23rd Annual

Kent Schulz Award Recipient William Robinson

leadershipmanateeaa.org

Gulf Coast Wealth Advisors is proud to announce and welcome two new members to the team. Robert V Carr Jr, CFS Vice President and Christina Carey, Client Service Representative.

SouthTech welcomes Cameron Miller to its Client Services Team, assisting SouthTech's clients and troubleshooting technical issues on its behalf and Lauren Selle as their new Marketing Coordinator.

Purmort & Martin Insurance Agency, announced Russ Bobbitt, a longtime partner and agent, has recently assumed the role of president and chief executive officer from Jamie Purmort, who resigned to pursue other opportunities.

School District of Manatee County is proud to announce the winners of the 2018 Excellence in Education Awards. The Educator of the Year is Heather Anderson, Language Arts Teacher, King Middle School and the Support Employee of the Year is Marie MuellerLab Manager/Tech Support, Oneco Elementary.

We Want to Read All About It!We all love to read about your company's new hires, promotions or special awards, so don't forget to let us know about it! In fact, we will share this type of news with your fellow Chamber members in our Member News section above.

As part of your Chamber membership, you have access to the Chamber's PRESS RELEASE TOOL. This valuable tool enables you to share your press release with more than 100 area media contacts. Be sure to take advantage of this to gain exposure for your business. If you have questions or need to know more, give us a call at 941-748-3411.

Start sharing your great news today!


Network & ConnectLearn Something Newcalendar

APR12

5:00-7:00 PMCENTRAL CAFE

906 Manatee Avenue EastBradenton 34208

APR10

5:00-7:00 PM

Great Networking with ComplimentaryHors d'oeuvres, Beer & Wine, Door Prizes

Don't forget your business cards!

TURNING POINTS701 17th Avenue West

Bradenton 34205

Casual Business Networking For Young Professionals

Appetizers • Cash Bar • Live Music

Continental BreakfastTropicana OJ

Door Prizes & Quality Networking

MEDALLION HOME | CROSSCREEK, PARRISH3759 Manorwood Loop

Parrish, 34219and a Ten-Minute Takeaway

Sponsored by

Mon. 2 Infill Committee Meeting 12:00 - 1:00 PM Blalock Walters, P.A.Tues. 3 BBC Taskforce Committee Meeting 3:00 - 4:00 PM Bradenton Board Room BBC Advisory Committee Meeting 4:00 - 5:00 PM Bradenton Board RoomWed. 4 Power Connection Lunch 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Half Shell Seafood House Healthcare Committee Meeting 4:00 - 5:00 PM Lakewood Ranch Board RoomThurs. 5 Education & Workforce Committee Meeting 12:00 - 1:00 PM South Florida Museum 17th Annual Ship-Shape Showcase 4:00 - 7:00 PM Port ManateeFri. 6 Small Business Council Meeting 8:00 - 9:00 AM Manatee County LibraryMon. 9 Headliners: Dr. Diana Greene 11:30 AM - 1:15 PM Rosedale Golf & Country ClubTues. 10 Lunch with the Chairman 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Beach Bistro Business After Hours 5:00 - 7:00 PM Turning PointsThurs. 12 Big Bank Theory 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM Southeast High School Power Connection Breakfast 7:30 - 9:00 AM The Granary Technology Committee Meeting 3:00 - 4:00 PM Chamber Office at Bank of the Ozarks MYP Networking Social 5:00 - 7:00 PM Central CafeFri. 13 Big Bank Theory 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM Southeast High School Transportation Committee Meeting 8:00 - 9:00 AM South Florida MuseumMon. 16 Attainable Housing Task Force Meeting 4:00 - 5:00 PM Manatee Community FoundationTues. 17 Seminar : Analyze This: Social Media Success 1:00 - 4:00 PM Lakewood Ranch Board RoomWed. 18 Executive Committee Meeting 7:45 - 9:00 AM Chamber Office at Bank of the Ozarks Power Connection Lunch 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Anna Maria Oyster Bar Landside Leadership Manatee Graduation Dinner 6:00 - 9:00 PM University Park Country ClubThurs. 19 Bagels & Benefits Member Reception 7:45 - 9:30 AM Lakewood Ranch Board Room MYP Hot Topic Lunch: Financial Series 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM Lakewood Ranch Board RoomFri. 20 Natural Resources Committee Meeting 8:00 - 9:00 AM Lakewood Ranch Board Room MYP Community Service Project 9:30 - 11:30 AM Feeding Empty Little Tummies Chamber Friends Committee Meeting 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Chamber Office at Bank of the Ozarks Chamber Open House 12:00 - 6:00 PM Chamber Office at Bank of the Ozarks MYP Community Service Project 9:30 - 11:30 AM Feeding Empty Little TummiesTues. 24 Seminar: Sales Strategy & Structure 9:00 - 11:00 AM Lakewood Ranch Board RoomWed. 25 MYPower Networking Lunch & Ten-Minute Tip 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM Cleveland Kitchen Board of Directors Meeting 4:00 - 5:00 PM Lakewood Ranch Board RoomThurs. 26 Coffee Club & Ten-Minute Takeaway 7:45 - 9:00 AM Medallion Home, CrossCreek, Parrish MYP Social Committee Meeting 12:00 - 1:00 PM Chamber Office at Bank of the OzarksFri. 27 Downtown Redevelopment Committee Meeting 8:00 - 9:00 AM Connect Bradenton

APRI

L

APR26

7:45-9:00 AM

Sponsored by

Please carefully note meeting

locations


ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT BASEBALLMARAUDERS 5-GAME PLAN

FIVE OF OUR BEST WEEKEND GAMES IN ONE PACKAGE!

Infield Box or Reserve $15 per game, $75 per plan

Baseline Box $13 per game, $65 per plan

Left Field Bleachers $11 per game, $55 per plan

INCLUDED:

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FOOD

TWO FREE GIFTS Marauders Hat LECOM Park Stadium Replica

UNUSED TICKET POLICY Flexibility to exchange tickets for any game. You will also exchange your All-You-Can-Eat wristband for 2 entrée and 2 drink vouchers.

To order or for more information

Call us: (941) 747-3031Email us: [email protected]


PRESORTEDSTANDARD

U.S. POSTAGEPAID

AM-PM MAILINGSERVICE 222 10th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205

ManateeChamber.com

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THE ONLY PHONE SYSTEM YOU NEED

&941.556.4460 941.312.7888

KEEPING YOU CONNECTED



941-753-7574

Punch up your message!

Does yourEMAIL MARKETINGMake an impact?

VIEW CURRENTONLINE at


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