The Official Publication of the Manatee Chamber of Commerce 5-Star Accredited by the U. S. Chamber of Commerce Four-Time Winner Florida Chamber of the Year National Chamber of the Year

Warmest Holiday Greetings and Best Wishes for the New Year Trudy Moon

Outgoing Chairman of the Board

December 2016

Reduced Risk of Stroke with the WATCHMAN™ Implant Manatee Memorial’s Heart and Vascular Center is the first in the region to offer patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation an alternative to long-term warfarin medication. The newly approved WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC) Implant helps to close off the left atrial appendage and catch harmful blood clots before they enter the bloodstream — reducing the risk of stroke.

To learn more about the WATCHMAN Implant, please call 941.708.8064.

(Left to right) Cardiologists Srinivas Iyengar, MD, FACC; Eugene Parent, MD, FACC and Daniel Friedman, MD, FACC, FHRS can perform the WATCHMAN Implant procedure at Manatee Memorial Hospital.

206 Second Street East Bradenton, FL 34208 www.manateememorial.com

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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. 160071

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Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

Financial Strategies | Estate Planning & Trust Assistance

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Financial Strategies & Planning Assistance in document structure in family governance Strategic planning with trusted financial advisor Virtual office services Philanthropy & Legacy Planning Estate Planning & Trust Assistance Periodic review of processes and procedures Garrett Shinn, CPA | Tax Partner Risk management recommendations

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December Current 2016 | Manatee Chamber of Commerce

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EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Chairman.......................................................................................................................... Trudy Moon, Air & Energy Immediate Past Chairman ........................................................................ Jonathan Fleece, Blalock Walters, P.A. Chairman-Elect.......................................................................................Kevin DiLallo, Manatee Memorial Hospital Treasurer...........................................................................Phill Baker, Boyd Insurance & Investment Services, Inc. Vice Chairman, Community Development & Communications.......... Ernie Withers, Mercedes-Benz of Sarasota Vice Chairman, Membership Development & Services........................................ Bill Poulton, Tropicana Products Vice Chairman, Public Policy & Small Business............................................ Darcie Duncan, Duncan Real Estate Chairman, Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation.................... Michael Moschella, Hancock Bank President............................................................................... Robert Bartz, IOM, Manatee Chamber of Commerce

BRADENTON OFFICE 222 10th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205 Phone: 941-748-3411 Fax: 941-745-1877

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Lisa Arrigo Hoban, L.A. Events, Inc. Ben Bakker, HJB Properties Jackie Barron, The Mosaic Company Jason Bartz, NDC Construction Company Vanessa Baugh, Commissioner, Manatee County Government (Ex Officio) Kevin Baylor, Suncoast Business Technologies Richard Bedford, Schroeder-Manatee Ranch Inc. Jennifer Bencie, MD, Florida Dept. of Health - Manatee Rick Bisio, The Educated Franchisee Bruce Body, Raymond James & Associates, Inc. Shirley Bryant, Mayor, City of Palmetto (Ex Officio) Carlos Buqueras, Port Manatee (Ex Officio) Christy Cardillo, Shinn & Company, LLC Karen Carpenter, Board Member, School Board of Manatee County (Ex Officio) Brian Carter, Mauldin & Jenkins CPA, LLC William Colgate, MD, MCR Health Services, Inc. Ron Getman, Getman Cruise & Travel Diana Greene, PhD, School Board of Manatee County (Ex Officio) Sherod Halliburton, Manatee Community Federal Credit Union

LAKEWOOD RANCH OFFICE AT THE MCCLURE CENTER 4215 Concept Court Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211 Phone: 941-748-3411 Fax: 941-745-1877 [email protected] ManateeChamber.com MISSION: To build a positive business environment while enhancing the community’s quality of life.

Sharon Hillstrom, Bradenton Area Economic . Development Corporation Ed Hunzeker, Manatee Co. Government (Ex Officio) John Laurie, BB&T Insurance Services Michael Maddaloni, Bealls, Inc. Michael Milliron, IMG Academy Stewart Moon, Jr., Air & Energy Sean Murphy, Beach Bistro John Nash, 1st Manatee Bank Donal O’Shea, PhD, New College of Florida (Ex Officio) Frederick Piccolo, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (Ex Officio) Wayne Poston, Mayor, City of Bradenton (Ex Officio) Tara Poulton, Southwest Florida Water Management District (Ex Officio) William Robinson, Blalock Walters, P.A. Vicki Silver, Feld Entertainment, Inc. Sandra Stone, PhD, University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee (Ex Officio) Brian Thomas, State College of Florida (Ex Officio) Bob Turner, Bradenton Herald Kerry Ward, Bank of the Ozarks

MANATEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF

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 ADVERTISING RATES CONTACT: Michele Slaughter 941-748-4842, ext. 116 or [email protected] The Current magazine is proudly published by CG&B Publishing, LLC of Bradenton.

Jahna Allen, Vice President, Community Development.............. [email protected], ext. 172 Robert Bartz, IOM, President...........................................................BobB@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 112 Kim Dalglish, Vice President, Membership Dev. & [email protected], ext. 121 Jacki Dezelski, IOM, Executive Vice [email protected], ext. 131 Tim Fenimore, Membership Development Representative.............. [email protected], ext. 241 Michael Gallen, Esq., Vice Pres., Public Policy & Small [email protected], ext 124 Kimberly Hinkle, Visitor Information [email protected], ext. 200 Kimberly Kramer, Program & Events [email protected], ext. 139 Carey Miller, Office Administrator................................................. [email protected], ext. 113 Reba Parrish, Visitor Information Specialist.................................. [email protected], ext. 100 Dawn Plavak, Better Business Council Manager.......................... [email protected], ext. 114 Diane Pluchino, Visitor Information Specialist...................................... [email protected], ext. 200 Lisa Reeder, Executive Assistant, Public Policy & Small [email protected], ext. 123 Cheryl Richert, Controller of Finance...........................................CherylR@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 115 Michele Slaughter, Creative Services [email protected], ext. 116 Leigh Weger, Executive Assistant, Membership Development.... [email protected], ext. 122

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

By appointment only - call 941-748-3411 Thursdays, 9:00 - 10:00 - 11:00 AM, Bradenton Office Tuesdays, 9:00 - 10:00 - 11:00 AM, Lakewood Ranch Office at the McClure Center

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Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

Stay up to date with the latest Chamber news and happenings

contents FEATURES

IN EVERY ISSUE

7 Public Policy • Advocacy for Strong Business Environment Catalyst for Positive Change

6 Platinum Member Spotlight: Sarasota Bradenton International Airport

8

16 18

20

12

2016 Chamber Year in Review • Another Stellar Year in the Making

13 Power Connection Lunch

Chamber Expo Highlights Holiday Buyer's Guide • 'Tis the Season to Shop Chamber

23

Annual Dinner • Secure Your Sponsorship • Reserve Your Tickets

25

Sporting Clays - Register Now!

Manatee Young Professionals (MYP)

20

Tech TIPS • A/B Website Testing

29 Welcome New Members Thank You Renewing Members

21 5th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards VIP Events • State of the Ports Luncheon

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24 Bagels & Benefits

Our Cover Girl • Outgoing Chairman, Trudy Moon

22

Better Business Council (BBC)

30

Coffee Club

31

Business After Hours

32

Ribbon Cutting Celebrations

33

Member News

ABOUT OUR COVER

34 Calendar of Events & Meetings

A huge thank you to Gary Sweetman Photography & Digital Imaging, a Chamber member since 1979, for shooting our cover photo.

26 Holiday Coffee Club • Join Us! 27

Leadership Manatee Fall Highlights

28

Get More Bang for Your Bucks with the Welcome Manatee! Program

Best Wishes for the Holiday Season! During the holiday season, our thoughts turn gratefully to all of our members who made 2016 a wonderful year!

NETWORKING AT A GLANCE

Business After Hours December 1 • 5:00 - 7:00 PM SandBar Restaurant

MYP Networking Social December 8 • 5:00 PM World of Beer Cortez

See page 20 for more fun outtakes from our fantastic photoshoot at Moon Estates.

Holiday Coffee Club December 14 • 7:30 - 9:30 AM Manatee Performing Arts Center

December Current 2016 | Manatee Chamber of Commerce

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PLATINUM MEMBER

SPOTLIGHT

Sarasota Bradenton International Airport

Your local airport is pleased to provide you with updates on some of its major remodeling and construction projects. We are also excited to share air service news and reveal our latest customer service amenities. ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGING: Located in the short term parking lot, 4 complimentary EV charging stations provide patrons the opportunity to recharge their electric vehicles while traveling or picking up family and friends. INDOOR ANIMAL RELIEF AREA: Installed post-security at gate B2 to accommodate pets and service animals traveling with passengers, this new amenity is equipped with artificial grass and clean up supplies. SRQ also has two outdoors pet relief areas on each end of the terminal building. iPads: Complimentary iPads are now available on the concourse. Passengers are welcome to surf the internet via the complimentary SRQ Wi-Fi. The iPads are located outside CNBC at gate B5, and between Starbucks and the Gulf Breeze Café. CURB SIDE RENOVATIONS: Installed new roads and roadway markings, and new landscaping. Two canopies, one at baggage claim and one at ticketing, will extend over the roadway, providing additional coverage from the weather.

FAA AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL TOWER (ATCT): Co-funded by SRQ, FDOT, and the FAA, the $22M ATCT will enhance the safety of the airport and free 100 acres of airport land for future development. Construction of this state-of-the-art, 139foot ATCT with adjoining FAA training facility is expected to be completed by the end of 2017. AIR SERVICE UPDATES: SRQ has 7 air carriers: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Elite Airways, JetBlue Airways, United Airlines, Air Canada, and WestJet. Nonstop service is provided to Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Chicago O’Hare, Newark, New York LGA & JFK, Portland (Maine), Toronto, and Washington DC. Elite Airways, our newest addition, commenced nonstop service to Portland, ME (PWM) on November 17, and will be offering the 2-weekly flights year-round on Thursdays & Sundays. WestJet seasonal service to Toronto returned on December 2, while the JetBlue Airways nonstop Boston and New York JFK service returned on October 30. Nonstop seasonal service to Newark with United Airlines’ will commence on December 17 and the nonstop Detroit with Delta Air Lines returns effective December 18. Make sure to check out the convenient flights from your local airport with easy connections to many destinations worldwide.

Thank you for your continued support. Enjoy the holidays and remember: SRQ provides a convenient, stress-free travel experience. SMAA/SRQ 6000 Airport Circle | Sarasota, FL 34243 | 941-359-2770 | www.srq-airport.com

Advocacy for Strong Business Environment Catalyst for Positive Change - a win for Manatee County! A strong business environment is created through leadership, commitment and perseverance, they are not a given. Business leaders such as yourself, along with our government partners and other stakeholders, work hand-in-hand to strengthen your business. Quality communities that encourage businesses and families to relocate are equipped with excellent schools, efficient and safe transportation grids, adequate public safety, quality parks, and vibrant urban corridors with pedestrian friendly livework environments. Our community has demonstrated we want to continue to be a quality community. In November, your Chamber and our valued members realized the fruits of our robust advocacy efforts when Manatee County Government adopted revisions to the County Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code, and the county electorate approved the Manatee County Infrastructure Sales Tax and extended the School District of Manatee County Capital Outlay Sales Tax. We accomplished this through the work of our dedicated members giving their time, talent and passion to move our community forward.

Urban Corridors identified by Manatee County for redevelopment.

In 2009, the Chamber’s Infill and Revitalization Committee presented recommendations for urban infill and redevelopment in a workshop to the Board of County Commissioners. We focused on the challenges of attempting to accomplish quality infill and redevelopment under the County’s existing land development code. Our advocacy to revise the code and address these obstacles was born out of the citizen and business representatives desire to incentivize new businesses and redevelopment, including mixed use livework communities, along our time-worn urban corridors. The effort to revitalize our urban corridors is an exciting endeavor that begins in 2017, the same year our School District Capital Sales Tax extension takes effect. This money will ensure necessary renovations to existing schools and provide new safety measures and enhance technology, along with the anticipated need for new schools in the northern and eastern portions of

the county. We can all agree our children and educators require adequate resources to ensure they have a safe and secure learning environment. This extension ensures a quality public school system. Couple this with the expected impact of the County’s Infrastructure Sales Tax that will address long over-due infrastructure and transportation concerns, such as traffic congestion relief, intersection updates, sidewalks, streetlights, among other safety measures, along with enhancements to public safety, and public park improvements. Our community has made a very important investment and taken a bold step toward creating healthier live-workplay, pedestrian friendly environments. We continue to make quality of life a top priority, strengthening our businesses environment and making our region a top destination spot for families and businesses to start-up and grow.

Image of proposed redevelopment from Chamber Infill and Revitalization Committee’s presentation to Board of County Commissioners.

Thank You...

Our Members' Investment Made It All Possible As the end of 2016 draws near, we’d like to take this opportunity to say thank you. Thank you for the investment you’ve made in your business, the investment you’ve made in the Chamber and our mission, and the investment you’ve made in our community. We’ve had an outstanding year and are celebrating many successes. These accomplishments, outlined on pages 9-11, are a direct result of the hard work, dedication and support from companies like yours. We know you recognize that a strong local economy leads to added opportunities and a better quality of life for us all. Your Manatee Chamber remains the largest Chamber in the Tampa Bay region. That is not by accident. But, simply being the biggest is not the only metric by which we measure our success. Every year we revisit our program of work to identify new priorities and challenges that need to be met. And, every year our members support our priorities through involvement and commitment. This month you’ll receive your 2017 Member Handbook & Benefits Guide. We encourage you to check out what’s new and share it with your entire team. Together, we can accomplish even more in 2017!

2016 Chamber Highlights Another Stellar Year in the Making

It has has been a year of accomplishment for the Manatee Chamber of Commerce. We believe the unmatched support we receive from our members is due to our dedication to building economic prosperity through a strong business community and vibrant quality of life. We represent a unified business voice for all of Manatee County - north, south, east and west - and are constantly working on your behalf. We maintain 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S Chamber of Commerce which is a distinction earned by only 1% of the more than 7,000 Chambers across the U.S. The Manatee Chamber is committed to helping our members achieve success through networking and marketing opportunities, business education, leadership training, advocacy and unique business resources. We also serve as a convener and collaborator to ensure that our community is working together to make this the best place to live, work and play. We couldn't do it without you thank you!

Building, nurturing, and maintaining genuine business relationships is what many business owners would say is their key to success. The Manatee Chamber, with more than 2,100 members, has the ability to connect business professionals with one another to build and foster those important relationships. In just the past year, the Chamber has hosted more than 75 events offering members quality networking opportunities morning, noon and night. Whether you prefer Coffee Club, Power Connection Lunch, or Business After Hours, we make it easy for you to meet fellow members. This year, we launched Power Connection Breakfast for those who like the smaller, more intimate networking setting of Power Connection Lunch but need a morning option. At both PCB and PCL, every member has the opportunity to give a commercial about their business, every time. To help new, and even long-standing, members navigate the many (100+) member benefits available to you and your employees, we hosted several Bagels and Benefits member receptions throughout the year. Attended by more than 400 members, we were able to share programs, benefits and initiatives that help our member businesses, and our community, thrive. If you haven’t attended a Bagels & Benefits reception lately, consider joining us in 2017. And speaking of navigating member benefits, we continue to grow our Chamber Friends program. Chamber Friends, seasoned members serving as Chamber ambassadors, help new members kick start their Chamber membership. Connect with a Chamber Friend. It could be very worthwhile to you and your business. Did you recently open, expand or relocate your business? If so, we very well may have hosted your Ribbon Cutting to celebrate and announce your exciting news. We hosted more than 200 ribbon cuttings this year giving our members valuable exposure through the Chamber and local media outlets. Ribbon Cutting celebrations are free of charge and included with your membership investment. If showcasing your products and services is a part of your marketing plan, we hold two annual events, Ship-Shape Showcase and Chamber Expo, worth taking advantage of. Both were sell-outs for booth space this year which gave participants premium exposure to the 1,500+ members in combined attendance. Ship-Shape and Expo are true “Shop Local. Shop Chamber.” events promoting the value of patronizing local businesses. Our 2nd Annual Member Appreciation Cookout, attended by more than 500, gave us an opportunity to thank our members for their continued investment. In just two years, this event has become so popular that in 2017 we plan to host two, one in March and one in November. Come and enjoy a hot dog on us!

Learn Something New The Chamber provided our members with a diverse selection of business development seminars with topics like social media, marketing, sales, leadership management courses, Dale Carnegie training and even a special internet safety course to protect you and your children. We also provided our members with a unique opportunity for one-on-one counseling from legal experts regarding the new federal overtime regulations. In partnership with Manasota SCORE, we provided no-cost, confidential mentorship and guidance for business owners desiring to start-up or grow their business. We partnered with Manatee County to host a Small Business Expo with free tools, resources and information for small businesses. We also continued our partnership with State College of Florida in offering our members online courses 24/7, including continuing education (CEU) credits. Course topics included sales training, social media, marketing, media relations, human resources, operations and business basics. We continued to make our committee and task force experience a learning opportunity for members. By attracting a diverse set of members, with a wide range of expertise, committee participation delivered a triple play by giving members influence, networking opportunities and knowledge. The Chamber expanded information in our monthly magazine, the Current, to include more technology tips and more public policy coverage. Knowledge is power!

Have a Voice... If Not the Manatee Chamber, Then Who? The Chamber’s business is your business. That’s why we pay particular attention to the issues that impact you and focus our efforts on strong, smart advocacy on your behalf at the local, state and federal levels of government. We dedicate significant resources to public policy, which deliver great value on our members’ investment and impacts your workforce and bottom line. The Chamber launched our public policy @dvocacy Enews this year to keep our members up-to-date on critical issues and provide action alerts. Our year-round advocacy includes the preparation of position statements and speaking on behalf of our members before governing bodies. We were successful with important Chamber-backed policies being approved locally including Manatee County’s revisions to the comprehensive plan and land development code to incentivize infill development along our urban corridors, encouragement of attainable housing options, and adoption of a more urban-friendly noise ordinance to promote a vibrant urban core. Additionally, we encouraged members to get out and vote in the primary and general elections. A big effort for the Chamber this year was our partnership with the Forward Manatee Campaign for successful passage of both the County Infrastructure and School District Capital Outlay Sales Tax referenda. We feel these two funding streams are critical to our community’s long-term success. This year, as we represented our members in Tallahassee, the Chamber opened doors to some of the most influential leaders of our state, including Governor Rick Scott, Senate President Andy Gardiner, Majority Leader Bill Galvano and CFO Jeff Atwater, among others. We had the opportunity to stress the importance of economic development, tax cuts for businesses, and job creation in addition to addressing other quality of life issues such as increased access to health care and education funding. Transportation is a top concern for our member businesses and we brought that message home in meetings with FDOT officials, including Secretary Jim Boxold. We stressed the importance of securing local transportation projects and continued funding to address our local infrastructure needs. Chamber-backed legislation that was passed and approved by the Governor included the elimination of the manufacturing equipment sales tax, protecting the Transportation Trust Fund, increased funding for K-12 education (including capital outlay), increased funding for behavioral health, and funding requests for State College of Florida and South Florida Museum Institute for STEAM in partnership with USF Sarasota-Manatee. Our advocacy continues as we prepare to visit the Florida Capitol again for some unfinished business and deliver our 2017 legislative priorities on behalf of our members. We also keep our fingers on the pulse of public policy issues affecting business by facilitating important dialogue between our members and key decision makers. VIP guest luncheons were hosted with prominent leaders and elected officials, including Congressman Vern Buchanan, Commissioner of Agriculture Adam Putnam, Florida CFO Jeff Atwater, Chief of Bradenton Police Chief Melanie Bevan, Cyber Security Director Sri Sridharan, and FDOT Secretary Jim Boxold. We hosted a pre- and post-legislative session “Pancakes & Politics” which provided the opportunity to engage one-on-one with our state legislative delegation. We also worked to bring predictability and certainty to the redevelopment of Manatee County’s urban areas through our Infill Committee that forwarded recommendations to Manatee County on land use and financing considerations in redevelopment pockets and thoroughfares including Manatee Avenue and the Southwest Corridor. The Chamber Infill Committee also provided recommendations to Littlejohn Consulting and Manatee County regarding the rewrite of the southwest urban corridor land development code.

Contribute to the Well-Being of the Community Business success depends upon community success and vice versa. The Chamber's mission is intentionally tied to the quality of life we want to see in Manatee County. The Chamber’s 20+ committees, boards and task forces work on issues important to the success of your business and our community. A qualified talent pool is a critical factor for long-term business success. To help educate students about what's necessary for their future success, the Chamber presented our financial literacy program – The Big Bank Theory – to 12th graders and our career awareness program – Project TEACH – to local 4th graders. We reached thousands of students in Manatee County using more than 300 member volunteers. We also launched a new job shadow program for high school students. Two schools participated in our pilot and we are already planning to expand our reach next year. Leadership Manatee celebrated that start of its 34th year in 2016. Our program educates business and community leaders about community opportunities and challenges to ensure we do not experience a gap in leadership. More than 1,100 business and community leaders are graduates. We supported the Leadership Manatee Alumni Association and its mission to keep graduates connected with each other and the program. We also promoted the opportunity for high school students to participate in the Junior Leadership Manatee program. Our Manatee Young Professionals (MYP) program reached several new milestones including a membership that again surpassed 400 paid members. Using the talents of our members, we introduced new branding for the program and increased our social media presence. We successfully advocated on issues important to young professionals like the noise ordinance and other priorities. These are the result of a stronger voice for young professionals in front of elected officials. MYP offered benefits directed at those 21-40 years of age through social, business and community involvement. The Manatee Chamber and Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation (BAEDC) maintained our strong affiliation through complementary missions and collaborative leadership. The Chamber creates the "product" of a desirable place to live, work, play and operate a business while the BAEDC markets that "product" to the world. We collaborated on a number of important issues including the two half-cent sales tax ballot items and several legislative priorities.

Exposure – the good kind – is important to every business. You need customers and clients to know about your products and services. The Manatee Chamber promotes its members in many different ways. Our super-popular Press Release Tool is one of our top members-only benefits. Is your business getting in the news? More than 600 press releases have been sent by our members so far this year. If you aren’t taking advantage of this tool, you should be! Manatee County has designated both Chamber offices as official Tourist Information Centers. We continued to see increase traffic to our offices, which means more eyes on our members’ promotional materials. Lobby visitors totaled more than 25,000 individuals, all of whom had easy, convenient access to Chamber member promotional materials in our lobbies. Do we have your brochures and business cards? Our official Manatee County Preferred Business Directory is one of the most requested items by members, newcomers, and visitors. We gave out 14,000 copies at no charge. We want consumers to know about your business! Our online presence – both through our website and social media – offered many ways for us to encourage patronage at Chamber member businesses. One of the most heavily trafficked parts of our extensive website was our online directory. We offer sponsorship opportunities at many different levels to accommodate budgets of every size. We craft each opportunity carefully to offer members a great return on their sponsorship investment.

Grow Your Business and Bottom Line Each year we undertake a program of work that is designed to give members access to resources specifically designed to help them reach new customers, capitalize on the credibility Chamber membership brings, discover new efficiencies and improve our community for greater business success. We think a great way for members to hone in on the Chamber benefits most important to you is by attending a “Bagels & Benefits” member orientation. It’s useful for new and longstanding members alike. In 2016 we reached a new high in attendance at these events. The Chamber's LocalQuotes4U tool continues to drive more business to Chamber members by giving consumers an easy way to reach member businesses and receive quotes for products and services. We also spent time harnessing the brain power of Chamber leaders to brainstorm on “Shop Local. Shop Chamber.” marketing ideas to enhance our messaging. Our Welcome Manatee! new resident and relocation program, in partnership with the Tax Collector’s Office, gave participating members a prime opportunity to promote their business and grow their client base. Our Better Business Council added new members and partnered with the Bradenton Herald to produce a highly-distributed “Guide to Better Business.” The BBC offered additional marketing opportunities for members, including referrals. Our CEO Roundtable program offered business owners and top decision-makers the opportunity to develop lasting relationships with other business leaders. This program provides business leaders with a “sounding board” of fellow executives to help them navigate the ups and downs of owning a businesses. The Chamber helped expand the Health Links program to offer free one-on-one consultation for businesses wanting to start or expand wellness/wellbeing benefits to employees. A happier, healthier workforce can improve employee productivity, engagement and presenteeism.

Don't Miss Out... Advertise in the BBC Directory

2016 DIRECTORY Your Official Guide to Better Business

The deadline for advertising in the upcoming BBC Consumer “Guide to Better Business Directory” is Friday, January 6. This unique publication will be distributed through the Bradenton Herald on Friday, January 22 and will also be available online through their website at Bradenton.com. In addition, it is distributed at both the Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch offices of the Chamber, through the offices of the Manatee County Tax Collector and mailed in our new resident packets.

ManateeChamber.com/BBC

Top BBC Referral Categories in October:

Featuring local businesses dedicated to building and maintaining good customer relations

New for 2017, the BBC Directory will publish two times! Distribution of the directory will be in January and again in July. As a member of the Better Business Council, your business will automatically be listed in the Directory. If you wish to increase your exposure by taking advantage of this advertising opportunity, please contact Darren Haimer at the Bradenton Herald. He can be reached at 941-745-7099. If you have any questions regarding your membership in the Better Business Council, please contact Dawn Plavak, Manager, at 941-748-1325 or [email protected].

Cleaning Services Air Conditioning Painting

JOIN THE BBC

Welcome to Some of Our Newest BBC Members:

Exposure in Print & Online Priority Referrals Set Your Business Apart

Please welcome Alexis Nguyen with Assisting Hands Home Care as one of our newest BBC members.

Mike Wick (right), BBC Advisory Committee Chairman, welcomes Jason George with Sunbay Marketing as a new BBC member.

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ManateeChamber.com

Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

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. December 7 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM The Ranch Grill 14475 State Road 70 E. Lakewood Ranch January 18 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Wicked Cantina 101 7th Street N. Bradenton Beach

Chamber Member Cost to Attend: $15

RSVP to Kimberly Kramer at [email protected] or Register online at ManateeChamber.com/Events. Power Connection Breakfast and Power Connection Lunch are Members-only networking events.

PLATINUM MEMBERS

®

SARASOTA BRADENTON

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GOLD MEMBERS

MAULDIN &JENKINS CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS, LLC

SILVER MEMBERS

BRONZE MEMBERS



December Current 2016 | Manatee Chamber of Commerce

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MYP Fall Funk Ace's Live

Friday, December 2 • 11:45 AM – 1:00 PM MYPower Networking Lunch

Manatee Chamber Bradenton Office Catered by Chicken Kitchen 222 10th St. W., Bradenton MYPower Luncheons give young professionals the opportunity to promote your business products and services and help MYP members find new customers for you! Cost: $15 for paid MYP members, $20 for all guests RSVP is required: Call Kimberly at 941-748-4842, ext. 139.

Next Month's MYPower Lunch Date: January 25 - Mexicali

Thursday, December 8 • 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM MYP Networking Social

World of Beer - Cortez 497 Cortez Road West, Bradenton, 34207 Join other local young professionals for casual business networking, complimentary appetizers, and a cash bar. This event is free for paid MYP members and $5 for guests. Don't forget to bring a friend!

Next Month's Social Date:

January 12 – iHeart Media Kick-Off Party

December 1 through December 9 MYP Community Service

Big Bank Theory

MYP Members are encouraged to volunteer for the Big Bank Theory. It’s an easy, fun, hands-on activity with local high schoolers Aimed at improving their financial literacy. Many dates available. You’ll love it! For more information call Jahna at 941-748-4842, ext. 172.

Tuesday, December 20 • 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM MYP Community Service

Salvation Army Gift Distribution 5328 24th St. E., Bradenton It’s the big day! Put on your Elf Ears or Santa hat and help distribute toys & clothing to families in need this holiday season. Register online or contact Kimberly at 941-748-4842, ext. 139.

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ManateeChamber.com

Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

13 Months of MYP Membership for the price of 12! It’s a great time to join MYP! Membership has its benefits including free events and greater exposure for you and your business. Join now and enjoy 13 months of membership for the price of 12!

Check out photos and upcoming events at MYPonline.com THANK YOU MYP WORKFORCE PARTNER:

THANK YOU FRIENDS OF MYP SPONSORS:



December Current 2016 | Manatee Chamber of Commerce

ManateeChamber.com

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MANATEE CHAMBER EXPO HIGHLIGHTS

CHAMBER EXPO2016 NOVEMBER 9

CREATING BUSINESS CONNECTIONS IN MANATEE AND SARASOTA COUNTIES

Hundreds of Business Connections Made at Chamber Expo! More than 1,000 members and guests turned out for the 2016 Chamber Expo to learn more about local businesses, connect with current and future customers, make new friends and enjoy fantastic food and entertainment.

Chamber Expo is always a great reminder to Shop Local. Shop Chamber.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS PRESENTED BY

CORPORATE SPONSORS

GRAND PRIZE SPONSOR

ENTERTAINMENT SPONSOR

BAR SPONSOR

MEDIA PARTNERS

SUPPORTED BY

Our Delicious Complimentary Lite Bites Were Provided by: Cedar Reef Fish Camp • Culver’s of Sarasota • Daily Eats • Der Dutchman • Edible Elegance by Eli • Fresh Kitchen Jpan Sushi & Grill • Newk’s Eatery • Orange Blossom Catering • Renaissance on 9th • Sonny’s BBQ

ze Grand Pri WINNER!

MANATEE CHAMBER EXPO HIGHLIGHTS

to SHOP CHAMBER and save!

‘Tis the Season for Santa and Savings! Purchase $50 or more in gift cards and receive a free bonus card.

Gift Card

Purchase online, call or visit. E-Gift Cards also available.

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Isla

Manatee Chamber Holiday ads.indd 1

Bonus Gift Card Sale 11/1/16 - 1/8/17. Bonus Card may not be used on day of purchase. Gift cards do not expire.

10/25/16 3:41 PM

TEMPEST CREATIONS

Leather Goods

Bags • Journals • Jewelry Masks • and More! contact us at [email protected] or find us online at

facebook.com/tempestcreations tempestcreationsinc.etsy.com

Mention you are a Chamber Member to receive discount! FUN GIRL ART | Jean G. Farmer, Owner/Artist 1001 12th Ave. W., Bradenton • 941-448-7485

HERE COMES SANTA CLAUS! We’ve got just What you need…

10% off for All Active Military, LEO, and 1st Responders

Visit us in the store or online at: www.toughenuff.com

8959 US Highway 301 N Parrish, FL 34219 – Parkwood Square Shopping Center

Are you looking for a safe harbor to sustain your retirement income? Let Clark Financial Partners lead you safely to Financial Freedom. Call us to set up a

COMPLIMENTARY APPOINTMENT

and receive your choice of two books, “Tax-Free Retirement” or “The Retirement Miracle,” by best-selling author Patrick Kelly.

Ken Clark President/CEO

United States Veteran

SERVING SENIORS & VETERANS THROUGHOUT FLORIDA

CALL (941) 238-6480 | www.clarkfinancialpartners.com

We’ve got your holiday event all wrapped up. We have the perfect locations, experienced staff and expert culinary teams, along with everything you need to make your holiday celebration easy and enjoyable.

CALL / EMAIL US! Patti McKee | (941) 778-8709 [email protected]

Tech TIPS

Technology In Plain Speak

by Chris Graser & Nazareth Morris, Last 7 Studios Web Design; Contributing Editors: Malinda Lee & Julie Jones

A/B Website Testing

Helping a "Good" Website Become a "Great" Website A/B Testing is considered one of the least used but most effective ways to introduce changes to a website. It can help a good website become a great one. What is A/B Testing? How does it actually affect my website? How can I use the information that A/B Testing gives me to improve my website? It is all less complicated than what it seems. So, let's start with the basics. What is A/B Testing? A/B Testing is the process of testing two different versions of the same content to determine if changes based on website layout or quantity of content has any effect on how people interact with that page. The content that you are testing can be anything from a whole website, a single page on a website, an email, or a landing page. So how does it work? When a user visits the page, they are randomly given Page A or Page B, hence the name A/B testing. Based on what the users do once they arrive in your A/B test, it generates conversion rate data. Conversion rate is a number that you get when you divide the number of users who visited a specific piece of content or page by the number of users who take a desired action. For example, let's say you

have a contact form on a landing page. Every time a user comes to that page and completes that form, a conversion has been achieved. All of the visitor data added together gives you the conversion rate.

and we compare the conversion rate data between both pages. If we see that page "B" has generated more conversions than page "A", we make page "B" the page that all users land on by default.

Now that we understand the basics of conversion, let's talk about what A/B testing would look like on a landing page. Specifically, a form on that landing page. For example, the form on this landing page has five pieces of information that are collected. Name, Email, Phone Number, Address, and a message. The analytics data shows that the landing page has a conversion rate that is below 1%. We decide to A/B test the page by focusing on the element that users interact with, the form. When testing, it is important to focus on one element at a time. The users interact with the form on our landing page, so we look at streamlining that interaction. Page “A” will stay the same. For page “B”, we remove three of the fields from the form, Phone Number, Message and Address. Once those fields are removed, we begin the A/B test. 50% percent of page visitors will get page "A" that has five fields, the other 50% of page visitors get page "B" that has two fields. The test runs for 30 days. The data is then compiled

So, what do these test results mean? At the most basic level, it means that more people were willing to fill out the shorter form. If we look a little deeper, it means that we have gained some information about our site users that will help us establish more variables to test going forward. We can use this information to improve the website by making small changes across the whole site. We can change any of the forms that are simply used as a point to collect "Call Backs". Shortening them can increase the number of contacts that the site generates with little or no work to the rest of the site. This is not to say that every form must be shortened, but it is a good place to start.

Our Cover Girl

Trudy Moon, Outgoing Chamber Chairman Our outgoing Chairman, Trudy Moon, exudes poise and grace as she poses for this month's cover. Of course, she did receive a little help from her husband, Stewart and son, Stewart, Jr. Our cover photographer, Gary Sweetman, was fantastic to work with (as always!) Rain, the Moon's Hanoverian rescue, was a perfect lady and took directions amazingly well.

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Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

Overall A/B Testing can, over time, not only increase the revenue that a website generates, but can also change the overall direction of the site. A/B Testing lets you see your website through your customer's eyes, and lets you better meet their needs.

5th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards Sponsorships Now Available

Four 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.

Nominations Accepted Beginning in January

One of the most important ways you can support the Champions of Healthcare Awards is to nominate a deserving individual, organization or business. This year's event drew more than 300 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 beginning next month so now is the time to consider who you will nominate.

5th Annual Champions of Healthcare Awards May 25, 2017 Feté Ballroom 7:30 - 9:30 AM

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

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

Corporate Sponsorships Available for Significant Exposure

Another 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 25, 2017

Make you reservations now. Last year's awards event was attended by more than 300 business, healthcare and community leaders. You may reserve individual tickets or secure a table sponsorship online or by calling Jacki Dezelski at 941-748-3411. 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.



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PUBLIC POLICY

VIP EVENTS State of the Ports



Small employers are good employers

Let's Talk About Port Manatee and the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

Join us for this special VIP luncheon event. You’ll hear an update from these business leaders. Carlos Buqueras with nearly a quarter century of distinguished Florida port leadership has been with Port Manatee as Executive Director since 2012. Frederick “Rick” Piccolo has over 44 years of experience in the aviation industry and has been President and CEO of the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport since 1995. When: Friday, January 20 • 11:30 AM to 1:15 PM Where: Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club 7650 Legacy Boulevard, Lakewood Ranch

Show your employees how much you care by kick-starting a health and safety program today.

Connect with Us ü  Receive FREE 1-on-1

support through advising ü  Assess your business culture ü  Get connected to local resources to help you achieve your goals.

Cost:

$30 Manatee Chamber and MYP Members; $45 Potential Members (includes plated luncheon)

RSVP: Lisa Reeder, 941-748-4842, ext. 123 or ManateeChamber.com/events

These VIP Events are open dialogues designed to allow members the opportunity to inquire and interact with our speakers.

Here to Help

Chamber Friends are seasoned members well-versed in Chamber benefits and services to help 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.

Contact Kim Dalglish or Leigh Weger at 941-748-3411

Tom Scholz

Kool Stuff Chamber Friend

Get started today, contact Pascale at [email protected]

Thanks for voting us Number One for 18 years! healthlinksflorida.org 22

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Locally Owned and Operated www.WagnerRealty.com

Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

2017

DINNER

Maximize Your Visibility with Business Leaders This sell-out event is not to be missed! Join us as we honor Outgoing Chairman Trudy Moon, Air & Energy, and welcome Incoming Chairman Kevin DiLallo, Manatee Memorial Hospital, and show our appreciation to our members who invest in local business growth and prosperity.

Secure Your Sponsorship Now!

54th Annual Dinner February 2, 2017 Feté Ballroom at Polo Grill & Bar

5:00 PM Networking Social & Silent Auction 6:30 PM Dinner & Program For business promotion, contact Kim Dalglish at [email protected] or 941-748-4842, ext. 121

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Cocktail Reception Sponsor • $3,000 Corporate Sponsors • $2,000 Invitation Sponsor • $1,500 Entertainment Sponsor • $1,000 Silent Auction Sponsor • $1,000 A/V Sponsor • $1,000

REGISTER ONLINE AT 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.

ManateeChamber.com/ AnnualDinner

Are you invisible on the

SEARCH ENGINES?

Increase your exposure! 941-753-7574 9115 58th Drive East Bradenton FL 34202

Proud 2011 Chamber Business of the Year

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Bagels & Benefits Member Reception Need to brush up on your Chamber member benefits? This reception is a great opportunity to learn more about the Manatee Chamber, meet the staff, and hear about the many member benefits available to you. Let us help you take full advantage of your membership. All members are welcome! Seating is limited. RSVP requested.

Thursday, December 1 7:45 AM

Manatee Chamber of Commerce Lakewood Ranch Office at the McClure Center 4215 Concept Court, Lakewood Ranch Register online at

ManateeChamber.com/Events For more information, contact Kimberly Kramer at [email protected] or 941-748-4842, ext. 139

We offer digital and offset printing with in-house foil stamping, embossing, and die cutting to meet all of your printing needs. • Portfolios & Pocket Folders • Brochures, Sell Sheets & Rack Cards • Annual Reports & Manuals • Newsletters, Postcards & Direct Mail • Point of Purchase & Product Packaging • Promotional Products

It’s that time of year to start planning your Holiday cards & 2017 calendars!

*,"1 Ê  ,

2016 Member

Strengthening Your Business and our Community National Chamber of the Year Four-Time Winner Florida Chamber of the Year U.S. Chamber 5-Star Accredited

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Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

Sponsored by

4th ANNUAL

SPORTING CLAYS FUN SHOOT Friday, January 27, 2017 12:00 - 3:00 PM

Ancient Oak Gun Club

16800 SR 64 East • Lakewood Ranch

ENTRY FEE Four-person Team • $450 Individual • $125

Entry Fee Includes: Shooting Fee 50 Targets Shells (20 & 12 gauge) Golf Cart

Join us at our 4th annual event and network with other shooting enthusiasts in a fun, casual atmosphere. And because we are “beginner-friendly,” mulligans are available! There will be unique targets with special prizes, a White Clays 50/50 Contest, raffle prizes, and great give-aways. Awards will be presented to the top three teams and the top individual male and female shooter.

Breakfast Break & Cowboy Cookout Awards Ceremony Goody Bag

Register NOW! ManateeChamber.com/SportingClays For more information, contact Jahna at 941-748-4842, ext. 172 or via email at [email protected].

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Cowboy Cookout Sponsor

Award Sponsor

Scorecard Sponsor



Safety Sponsor

Goody Bag Sponsor

Media Sponsor

Shell Sponsors

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It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Wednesday, December 14 7:30 – 9:30 AM

Manatee Performing Arts Center 502 3rd Avenue West, Bradenton

SPONSORED BY:

Join us for a morning of great networking, festive holiday entertainment by the Manatee High Jazz Band and the Saint Stephens Children's Choir, delicious breakfast, and our ever-popular gift-giving extravaganza! We hear Santa and Mrs. Claus will again be making a special appearance! Help us spread some holiday cheer by donating a “gift” for this special event. The more “gifts” we collect, the more cheer we’ll spread.

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO:

To donate gifts, please contact Kimberly Kramer at [email protected] or call the Chamber at 941-748-3411.

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Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

Fall Highlights of Leadership Manatee THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS:

What does a school bus, 500 cans of peas, and a tight rope have in common? They’re all part of the Leadership Manatee program. The month of September closed out with Education day and numerous tours of public, private and alternative learning institutions. In early October, during Local Government Day, the class enjoyed a luncheon with many local elected officials. Along with the lunch, the class participated in a mock trial (hence, the peas), giving them all hands-on experience of our judicial system. And in late October, the class participated in Escape to Reality, an outdoor team-building initiative. The activities involved in Escape to Reality are both enlightening and entertaining, a unique medium for personal discovery. December brings a holiday break for the Leadership Manatee class and, as they return in January, they wrap up the remaining days that will focus on law enforcement, business and industry, land use and transportation, and human needs issues. Check the February issue of the Current for more updates and photo highlights.

Your hometown choice for the area’s best properties.

Don’t Make a Move until you contact Darcie Duncan. Darcie Duncan, crs, Gri Broker-Owner

941.779.0304 teamduncan.com

Residential Sales • Investment Properties • Vacation & Annual Rentals • Property Management

Does your

EMAIL MARKETING Make an impact?

Punch up your message!

941-753-7574 9115 58th Drive East Bradenton FL 34202

Proud 2011 Chamber Business of the Year

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Getting More “Bang” for Your Marketing Buck! Use the power of the Chamber and join the Welcome Manatee! Program. Start 2017 off right with this great marketing program and increase your visibility with Manatee County’s newest residents.

INCREASE YOUR VISIBILITY

Advertising in the Chamber Current magazine is a great way to promote your business to fellow Chamber members. There are plenty of advertising options to suit your business needs. Give us a call today!

Annually, the Manatee Chamber distributes over 4,000 Welcome Manatee! relocation packets to prospective and current residents through the Tax Collector offices in Manatee County. Your brochure could be in that packet. As a participant in the Welcome Manatee! Program, you would receive an electronic monthly mailing list of these prospective new residents to treat as new leads. All you need to do is provide us with 1,000 rack cards/tri-fold brochures every quarter or 4,000 for the entire year and we’ll do the rest! Contact Diane Pluchino or Kim Hinkle at [email protected] or 941-748-4842, ext. 200 for more information and an application for the Welcome Manatee! progam.

Michele Slaughter

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

Sandler provides training solutions and consulting for small- to medium-sized businesses as well as corporate training for Fortune 1000 companies. We work with you to identify the training solution that best suits you or your organization. Our training is based on the concepts of incremental growth and change — supported by reinforcement, business coaching and accountability. Sandler has more than three decades of experience helping professionals like you grow and businesses like yours succeed. We have both the reputation and the results to prove it! If you’re looking to move up to the next level or to learn more about our various training solutions, contact Jamie Kane at (941) 907-1520 and let us know how we can help.

6371 Business Blvd. • Sarasota, FL 34240 • www.jamiekane.sandler.com 28

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Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

new members Abston Installations, Inc. abstonflooring.com 727-710-1811 Remodeling, Home Repair and Improvements Affordable Custom Blinds and Designs 10105 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL 34210 acblindsanddesigns.com 941-201-9161 Blinds, Window Treatments, Draperies, Shutters American Lock and Key 9516 Cortez Rd. W., Ste. 8 Bradenton, FL 34210 AmericanLockAndKeys.com 941-795-1825 Locksmiths

Freedom Community Outreach 345 6th Ave. W. Bradenton, FL 34205 FreedomCommunityOutreach.com 813-420-3583 Non-Profit Organizations Joyce M. Kajtaniak 770-634-8866 Individual Members Lex's Automotive 1045 Hasko Rd. Palmetto, FL 34221 lexsauto.com 941-723-0806 Automotive Repair and Parts Life Squire Gulf Coast lifesquire.com Personal Assistant Services

Cruise Planners / Living the Dream Vacations livingthedreamvacations.com 224-241-1373 Travel Agencies

Manatee Gynecology Associates, LLC 1850 59th St. W., Ste. B Bradenton, FL 34209 manateegynecology.com 941-792-4993 Obstetrics and Gynecology

Escape Bradenton 465 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL 34207 EscapeBradenton.com 941-666-5358 Activities and Amusements

Odyssey Movers / Move It Junk Removal 1838 1st Ave. E. Bradenton, FL 34208 MoveItSuncoast.com 941-803-4959 Construction Hauling and Recycling

Financial Integrity Group, LLC 5910 Cortez Rd. W., Ste. 120 Bradenton, FL 34210 FinancialIntegrityGroup.com 844-421-3555 Financial Planning and Services

Optimus Car Wash & Detail Center 5150 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL 34210 optimuscarwash.com 941-251-6393 Car Wash and Detail Centers

S & G Concessions luv-dogs.com Food Trucks and Carts SK Graphic Design PO Box 21402 Bradenton, FL 34204 SKGraphicDesign.com 813-343-6731 Graphic Artists and Designers Solgen 106 Brilliant Bloom Ct. Bradenton, FL 34212 solgenrenewables.com 941-677-2786 Energy and Energy Consulting Services Sunset Kia of Bradenton 4770 14th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34207 sunsetkiaofbradenton.com 941-752-1000 Automobile Dealers Trailwalker Gear Outfitters 4818 14th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34207 trailwalkergear.com 877-837-1106 Athletic Retailers and Outdoor Specialty Stores Wolfe Media, Inc. PO Box 20298 Bradenton, FL 34204 wolfemedia.com 941-782-8001 Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations

renewing members

Have you been avoiding

SOCIAL MEDIA?

Join the Conversation!

2015 – 1 Year Vein Center at Erasers

941-753-7574 9115 58th Drive East Bradenton FL 34202

Proud 2011 Chamber Business of the Year

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coffee club For the past 70 years, Easter Seals Southwest Florida has provided support to children and adults with disabilities. The services over the years have evolved in many ways to meet the needs of today’s community. Easter Seals SWFL began serving children with Polio, and today, Easter Seals SWFL includes an alternative high school program, as well as an adult program, serving individuals from six weeks old to age 87 and counting. From intervention therapies, to home-based care, to job placement, Easter Seals SWFL offers programs that help enrich the lives of people with all levels of ability. From Cerebral Palsy to Spina Bifida, to Down Syndrome and Autism, Easter Seals SWFL services allow each individual to achieve his or her full potential while enriching their lives along the way. As we embark on seven decades of serving people with special needs, Easter Seals SWFL is proud to have served the disability community. To mark this milestone, Easter Seals SWFL will host a celebration at the Ritz Carlton on December 9 at 6:30 PM. We hope you will join us on this journey to honor children and adults living with disabilities in our community. EASTER SEALS SOUTHWEST FLORIDA 350 Braden Avenue Sarasota, FL 34243 EasterSeals-SWFL.org 941-355-7637

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business after hours Liberty Tax Service was founded in 1997 by CEO, John Hewitt, previously the co-founder of Jackson Hewitt. As the fastest-growing tax preparation franchise, Liberty Tax Service, has prepared almost 20 million individual income tax returns in more than 4,300 offices and online.

Kathy DeStefano, Owner of the Lockwood Ridge location in Sarasota, is a Certified Public Accountant with over 35 years of experience. Kathy’s sister, Anna Sauter, manages the office with over 10 years of experience as a seasoned tax preparer. The Lockwood Ridge Road office is committed to providing exceptional customer service as Kathy and Anna take exhaustive steps to ensure every return is one hundred percent accurate. All returns at Liberty Tax Service are backed up by a written guarantee at no additional cost. Our staff is available yearround to answer questions and address any concerns regarding your tax return; including corresponding with the IRS on your behalf, audit assistance, and free copies of your return. All tax preparers at Liberty Tax Service keep up-to-date on current tax rules and complete courses each December to increase and refine tax preparation knowledge and skills. Accuracy is of utmost importance. Each tax return undergoes a triple-check system to eliminate the chance of errors. Our tax preparers go above and beyond to find and take full advantage of all available tax credits and incentives, so you never pay more tax than necessary. Have kids? No problem. Bring them along; Liberty Tax Service has a play area to keep your children occupied while your tax return is prepared. Liberty Tax Service is committed to making the tax process easy and stress free, while maintaining the highest accuracy and providing the best customer service.

LIBERTY TAX SERVICE 8311 Lockwood Ridge Road Sarasota, FL 34243 LibertyTax.com 941-355-8184



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ribbon cuttings The Aesthetic & Wellness Center Grand Opening 5219 E. State Rd. 64 Bradenton, FL 34208 941-749-0741 tawcenter.com

Barak Law Group, P.A. Grand Opening 5454 Lena Road, Ste. 107 Bradenton, FL 34211 941-782-8242 tbaraklawgroup.com

Dickey's Barbecue Pit Grand Opening 4406 53rd Ave. E. Bradenton, FL 34203 941-727-4227 dickeys.com

Havoline Xpress Lube - 14th Street Remodel 6606 14th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34207 941-758-8398 havolinequicklube.com

Havoline Xpress Lube – Cortez Remodel 5202 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL 34210 941-795-6446 havolinequicklube.com

The Makers Market and Workshops, LLC Grand Opening 6650 Cortez Rd. W. Bradenton, FL 34209 941-720-6821 makersmarketdiy.com

Grand Opening Renovation Relocation

Manatee Square Garden – Community Garden Project Manatee County Health Department Grand Opening 410 6th Avenue East Bradenton, FL 34208

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Powerhouse Row & Fitness Grand Opening 11538 Palmbrush Trail Lakewood Ranch, FL 34208 powerhouserow.fitness

Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

Contact Kimberly Kramer at 941-748-4842, ext. 139 to Schedule a Manatee Chamber Ribbon Cutting

member news

Manson Roofing honors Erin Ogline, Thomas Manson, and Brian Manson upon their completion of the Dale Carnegie twelve week course in Human Relations. President Bruce Manson and VP George Manson were in attendance for the event.

SRQ Wealth Management is pleased to announce Steve Martin and Karin Grablin have been chosen as two of Florida's Five Star Wealth Managers for 2016. Ryntal Property Management is happy to announce Julia LaLonde has joined their team as Administrative Assistant.

The School District of Manatee County announced 100 teachers will receive classroom grants to fund educational projects for their students.

year, the firm has been ranked as a “Best Law Firm” by U.S. News and Best Lawyers®.

MTC

is excited to announce Ashley Mitchell, a Manatee Technical College student in the digital design program, was the winner in the 20+ category of the ManaCon Art Challenge. The challenge was part of the Seventh Annual Mana-Con Comics Convention at the Manatee County Public Library.

Pittsburgh Pirates

announces the appointment of Jeff Podobnik to the position of Senior Director, Florida and Dominican Republic Operations. Podobnik has spent 27 years with the Pirates, most recently as Senior Director of Security and Contract Services at PNC Park. Podobnik replaces Trevor Gooby, who served the club as Senior Director of Florida Operations from 2005-2016.

Shinn & Co is proud to announce its Founder and Managing Partner, Byron Shinn, was awarded the Rick Fawley 2016 Economic Development Award of Distinction at the Bradenton Area EDC 2016 Annual Update Luncheon. Selah Freedom is excited to announce Debra Pitell-Hauge, a real estate professional with Michael Saunders and M. Catherine Vernon, Executive Director of Key Chorale and a former international corporate attorney, has been added to its Board of Directors. Spark Growth is pleased to announce

its CEO, Sara Hand, has recently joined Scaale Group and Cross Border Angels & Investors as a regional development partner.

Keller Williams Farm and Ranch,

a division of Keller Williams Lakewood Ranch Market Center, is excited to announce Adam Miller has joined its team.

Florida Internet Realty is happy to announce Christy May has joined broker Steve Rider of Southgate Circle as a broker associate. Carraway Consulting of Bradenton announces Mac Carraway, President, will serve as Director of Operations for the Florida Turfgrass Association. Manatee County

names Geraldine Campos Lopez director of the new Redevelopment and Economic Opportunity Department.

Blalock Walters, P.A. is pleased to announce that, for the third consecutive

Your Perfect Florida Lifestyle Begins with Duncan.

~ Real Estate Sales ~ Vacation Rentals ~ Property Management

941.779.0304 teamduncan.com

Is your website

MOBILE FRIENDLY?

Tim Lester

REAL ESTATE BROKER

941.524.8465

941-753-7574 9115 58th Drive East Bradenton FL 34202

TimLesterRealty.com

Proud 2011 Chamber Business of the Year

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calendar DECEMBER

Learn Something New

Bagels & Benefits Member Reception Business After Hours Downtown Redevelopment Committee Meeting MYPower Luncheon MYP Social Committee Meeting MYP Community Service Committee Meeting BBC Advisory Committee Meeting Power Connection Lunch Big Bank Theory Technology Committee Meeting MYP Networking Social Big Bank Theory Transportation Committee Meeting Holiday Coffee Club Chamber Friends Committee Meeting MYP Community Service Chamber Offices Closed - Christmas Holiday Chamber Offices Closed - Christmas Holiday Chamber Offices Closed - New Year's Holiday

JANUARY

Thurs. 1 Fri. 2 Mon. 5 Tues. 6 Wed. 7 Thurs. 8 Fri. 9 Wed. 14 Fri. 16 Tues. 20 Fri. 23 Mon. 26 Fri. 30

Network & Connect

Chamber Offices Closed - New Year's Holiday BBC Advisory Committee Meeting Healthcare Committee Meeting MYP Leadership Board Meeting Leadership Manatee Law Enforcement Day Technology Committee Meeting MYP Networking Social Coffee Club Power Connection Lunch Bagels & Benefits Member Reception State of the Ports VIP Luncheon Chamber Friends Committee Meeting

Mon. 2 Tues. 3 Wed. 4 Fri. 6 Wed. 11 Thurs. 12 Fri. 13 Wed. 18 Thurs. 19 Fri. 20

DEC

01

7:45 - 9:15 AM 5:00 - 7:00 PM 8:00 - 9:00 AM 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM 12:00 - 1:00 PM 12:00 - 1:00 PM 4:00 - 5:00 PM 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM 3:30 - 4:30 PM 5:00 - 7:00 PM 7:30 AM - 2:30 PM 8:00 - 9:00 AM 7:30 - 9:30 AM 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Lakewood Ranch Board Room SandBar Restaurant Bradenton Board Room Bradenton Board Room Bradenton Board Room Bradenton Board Room Bradenton Board Room The Ranch Grill Braden River High School Bradenton Board Room World of Beer Cortez Braden River High School Bradenton Board Room Manatee Performing Arts Center Bradenton Board Room Salvation Army Gift Distribution

4:00 - 5:00 PM 4:00 - 5:00 PM 12:00 - 1:00 PM

Bradenton Board Room Bradenton Board Room Bradenton Board Room

3:30 - 4:30 PM 5:00 - 7:00 PM 7:45 - 9:00 AM 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM 7:45 - 9:15 AM 11:30 AM - 1:15 PM 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM

Bradenton Board Room iHeart Media Manatee Fair Grounds Wicked Cantina Lakewood Ranch Board Room Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club Bradenton Board Room

Sponsored by

Great Networking with Complimentary Hors d'oeuvres & Door Prizes Don't forget your business cards! SandBar Restaurant 100 Spring Avenue Anna Maria

Sponsored by

Casual Business Networking For Young Professionals Cash Bar World of Beer 497 Cortez Road West Bradenton

Sponsored by

Continental Breakfast with Tropicana OJ, Announcements, Door Prizes & Quality Networking

5:00-7:00 PM

DEC

08

5:30-7:30 PM

DEC

14

Manatee Performing Arts Center 502 3rd Avenue West Bradenton

7:30-9:30 AM

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Manatee Chamber of Commerce | December Current 2016

PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

222 10th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34205 ManateeChamber.com

AM-PM MAILING SERVICE