CHAMBER CONNECTIONS. The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce enewsletter. It s a Bird, It s a Plane... It s Planes, Trains, & Automobiles 2018

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February 2018 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce enewsletter In this issue: President s Message

Strawberry Classic Cruise-In Best of Plant City Awards Lunch & Learn Series It s a Bird, It s a Plane.

It s continued to grow over the years and is now a favorite for many.

earn badges, demonstrations, and displays as far as the eye can see.

1 February 2018 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce enewsletter In this issue: President s Message New Members Ribbon Cuttings February Anniversaries Involvement Opportunities Volunteer Opportunities February Calendar Strawberry Classic Cruise-In Best of Plant City Awards Lunch & Learn Series It s a Bird, It s a Plane... It s Planes, Trains, & Automobiles 2018 On February 24th we will host the annual Planes, Trains, & Automobiles event at the Plant City Airport. The event was created when now Chairman Jason Jones was inspired by an old photo of the Strawberry Air Fest. It s continued to grow over the years and is now a favorite for many. Over 5,000 visitors come out each year to enjoy classic cars, model trains, airplanes, k9 demonstrations, and fun for the whole family. There will be free flights for children (ages 8-17) courtesy of EAA Young Eagles, opportunities for Cub and Boy Scouts to earn badges, demonstrations, and displays as far as the eye can see. Opening ceremonies are at 10:30am and trophies will be awarded at 2:30pm, be sure to vote for your favorite automobile & plane on display! When: Saturday, February 24th, 10am-3pm Where: Plant City Airport (4007 Airport Road, Plant City, FL) Cost: FREE admission. Parking $5 The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce 106 N. Evers Street Plant City, FL PlantCity.org Photos of past years events courtesy of The Plant City Times & Observer + The Plant City Chamber

2 2018 Trustees THANK YOU TO OUR TRUSTEES FOR YOUR COMMITMENT TO THE CHAMBER AND TO OUR COMMUNITY Board of Directors THANK YOU TO OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR YOUR LEADERSHIP AND COMMITMENT TO THE CHAMBER. Executive Committee: Chairman of the Board Jason Jones Advantage Restoration & Contracting Chair Elect Karen Kerr South Florida Baptist Hospital Immediate Past Chair Yvonne Fry Fryed Egg Productions Treasurer Carole Wright Myers & Wright, P.A. VC: Membership Division Courtney Paat State Farm Insurance VC: Community Relations Division Clark Smith Suncoast Credit Union VC: Community Events Division Alice Bullard OnPoint IT Solutions VC: Governmental Affairs & Economic Impact Division Marty Clay Hillsborough Community College Directors: Mike Arndt Minute Man Press Matt Buzza Pilot Bank Irene Castillo Raulerson Castillo & Company Kayla Drawdy Hillsborough Title, Inc. Ken Gibbs Jack T. Gibbs, Realtors Charles Harris Holiday Inn Express & Suites Larry Jimenez, Jr. Star Distribution Systems Jamey Moody James S. Moody, III Tom Pollock Pilot Bank Remegio Sanchez Ice Pop Factory Jim Scott Jarrett-Scott Ford Ed Verner City Properties Company

President s Message BUSINESS BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY IS MORE THAN A SLOGAN IT S A PROMISE. Members: The annual Passing of the Gavel was held last Thursday at the Trinkle Center.

We want to thank Yvonne Fry for her leadership during 2017 and are looking forward to Jason Jones term as Chairman during 2018.

3 President s Message BUSINESS BUILDING A BETTER COMMUNITY IS MORE THAN A SLOGAN IT S A PROMISE. Members: The annual Passing of the Gavel was held last Thursday at the Trinkle Center. It was a wonderful evening filled with laughter, introspection, and celebration. We want to thank Yvonne Fry for her leadership during 2017 and are looking forward to Jason Jones term as Chairman during Jason says that he plans to focus on three things: economic growth, business education and increased chamber membership value during his year as Chairman. Part of his plan includes bringing back the Lunch and Learn Series; we held the first of this series on January 24th and we were very pleased with the turn out. February s topic will be Social Media & Small Business lead by member-business Graphite Media. We are excited to see what 2018 will hold with Jason s leadership. We have a very busy February and March ahead of us! The winners of the 2018 Best of Plant City Awards will be revealed at a Chamber luncheon on February 8th. Please join us in congratulating the top finalists and the winners in each category. Space is limited so be sure to register soon to save your seat for this exciting event. The cost for members and their guests is $40, non-members are welcome to attend at the non-member rate of $50. Register by February 2nd to lock-in a $10 early bird discount. Categories include Hospitality & Tourism, Small Business, Downtown Enrichment, Economic Development, Community Service, and many more. We look forward to recognizing those in our community who go above and beyond to make our city the best place to live, work, and play. Also in February is Planes, Trains, & Automobiles 2018! We host this event in February each year at the Plant City Airport, in partnership with Tampa International Airport; and it s always a good time. There will be free flights for children, vendors, K9 demonstrations, and fun for the whole family! And with March of course comes the Florida Strawberry Festival! We appreciate all of the volunteers who help run the Chamber booth during the eleven day run and are recruiting even more for this year. This is a great way to promote our community and encourage visitors to return year-round. If you re interested in becoming a Chamber festival volunteer, please sign-up here. Make it a great February! Christine Miller (President)

4 New Members PLEASE JOIN US IN WELCOMING OUR NEWEST CHAMBER MEMBERS Saputo Dairy Foods USA December 21, Sydney Road Plant City, Florida (815) Food Processing / Packaging TR Network Consulting, LLC December 28, S. Alexander Street, Suite 10 Plant City, FL (813) Computer Repair & Information Technology Consulting Alpha Omega Credit Solutions, LLC December 29, W. Reynolds St, Ste 5 Plant City, FL (866) Credit Solutions Carr & Associates Consultants December 29, 2017 P. O. Box 1600 Thonotosassa, FL (813) Business Consultants & Management Chick-fil-A Lakeland Square December 29, US Highway 98 N Ste.692 Lakeland, FL FL (863) Restaurants Pinch A Penny Pool, Patio, and Spa January 2, S. Collins Street Plant City, FL (813) Swimming Pools & Spas - Builders, Services & Supplies Centennial Bank January 3, James L. Redman Parkway Plant City, FL (813) Financial Institutions Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services-State Farmers' Market January 3, W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Plant City, FL (813) Government New Beginnings Worship Center COGBF January 3, S. Knight Street Plant City, FL (813) Churches & Religious Organizations Direct Auto & Life Insurance January 5, A East Fowler Avenue Thonotosassa, FL (813) Insurance

New Members PLEASE JOIN US IN WELCOMING TO OUR NEWEST CHAMBER MEMBERS Drawdy's Dance School January 8, 2018 108 NE Drane St. Plant City, FL 33563 www.drawdysdanceschool.

5 New Members PLEASE JOIN US IN WELCOMING TO OUR NEWEST CHAMBER MEMBERS Drawdy's Dance School January 8, NE Drane St. Plant City, FL (813) Dance Studios / Dance Lessons All Pro Wildlife, LLC January 9, 2018 P.O. Box 1373 Plant City FL (813) The Corner Store January 9, East Reynolds Street Plant City, FL (813) Restaurants Clayton Dermatology Group January 10, Thonotosassa Rd. Plant City, FL (813) Medical Services k.e.y Beauty & Esthetics January 9, W. Reynolds Street, #9 Plant City, FL (813) Cosmetics & Skin Care Complete Air Services LLC January 10, 2018 Plant City, FL (813) Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration Norma's Plant City Cuban Sandwich Shop January 9, N. Collins St Plant City, FL (813) Restaurants The Tooth Caboose January 16, Thonotosassa Road Plant City, FL (813) Dentists & Orthodontists Pipe Pros INC January 9, East Reynolds Street Plant City, FL (813)

Ribbon Cuttings Lawrence McClure, State Representative Thursday, January 4th On Thursday, January 4th The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for House District 58 Rep.

He is committed to listening to the concerns of constituents, providing assistance when needed, and is dedicated to maintaining our conservative values. Rep.

A PEACE of Plant City Tuesday, January 9th On Tuesday, January 9th The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for A Peace of Plant City located at 120 N.

6 Ribbon Cuttings Lawrence McClure, State Representative Thursday, January 4th On Thursday, January 4th The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for House District 58 Rep. Lawrence McClure. State Representative Lawrence McClure looks forward to fostering business growth and job opportunities in the state of Florida. He is committed to listening to the concerns of constituents, providing assistance when needed, and is dedicated to maintaining our conservative values. Rep. McClure will pursue efficiency within state government and get rid of unnecessary regulations that are burdensome to business owners. A PEACE of Plant City Tuesday, January 9th On Tuesday, January 9th The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for A Peace of Plant City located at 120 N. Collins Street, Suite 101.Back to her roots, Jayme Harris, Plant City native and USAF veteran, has created A PEACE of Plant City. A PEACE of Plant City will offer an array of boutique style retail offerings, with locally made strawberry themed shirts, hats, jewelry, organic soaps, lip balm and lotions. Veteran made pens and unique gift items. Repurposed, refurbished, and original state antique furniture and household decor. Direct Auto & Life Insurance Friday, January 12th On Friday, January 12th The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the Thonotosassa location of Direct Auto & Life Insurance. "Direct Auto & Life Insurance specializes in providing affordable auto insurance. We proudly offer a member-tomember affinity discount to the employees of any company that belongs to the Plant City Chamber of Commerce.

Ribbon Cuttings Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Thursday, January 18th On Thursday, January 18th The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the Hillsborough County Farm

"Although Hillsborough County Farm Bureau has been in the county for over 75 years, our office has not been in Plant City since the late 50 s and we are thrilled to be back.

7 Ribbon Cuttings Hillsborough County Farm Bureau Thursday, January 18th On Thursday, January 18th The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau at their new location at 305 S. Wheeler Street, Plant City. "Although Hillsborough County Farm Bureau has been in the county for over 75 years, our office has not been in Plant City since the late 50 s and we are thrilled to be back. Hillsborough County Farm Bureau is a not-for profit, membership, agriculture education organization. Our mission is to assist the Ag community any way we can. Farm Bureau Insurance is a member benefit for our members. If you re not a member, consider joining!" Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings: Norma s Plant City Cuban Shop Friday, February 9, 2018 Fazoli s Monday, February 12, 2018 Florida United Methodist Children s Home Foster Care Services Tuesday, February 13, 2018 Grits & Berries Tuesday, February 20, 2018 Ribbon Cuttings are an excellent way to showcase your business and generate publicity; they re posted on our Facebook page, in the Plant City Observer, in FOCUS Magazine, and in this monthly newsletter Chamber Connections. If you haven t had a ribbon cutting, or have recently remodeled or moved, call us to schedule a ribbon cutting for your business today!

8 Community Calendar HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? ADD IT TO THE COMMUNITY CALENDAR! ADD AN EVENT TO THE CALENDAR NOW

! 2017 Chamber Ambassador Team of the Year: Team Two 2017 Chamber Ambassador of the Year: Alice Bullard The 2018 Plant City Magazines have

9 Ambassador Corner MONTHLY AMBASSADOR MEETING Our Chamber Ambassadors are the driving force behind member engagement and outreach. At the January meeting we celebrated the 2017 all stars & took this fun photo. Who says building your network can't be fun?! 2017 Chamber Ambassador Team of the Year: Team Two 2017 Chamber Ambassador of the Year: Alice Bullard The 2018 Plant City Magazines have arrived! Ambassador teams will be distributing these new directories starting February 1st. Interested in becoming a Chamber Ambassador? Click here to find out how.

Member Anniversaries FEBRUARY S CHAMBER MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES 30+ Years Cross Pest Control Badcock Home Furniture & More Marjon Specialty Foods, Inc.

10 Member Anniversaries FEBRUARY S CHAMBER MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES 30+ Years Cross Pest Control Badcock Home Furniture & More Marjon Specialty Foods, Inc. 20+ Years Farm Credit of Central Florida, ACA Trapnell Elementary School Lee, Tom City of Plant City 10+ Years Bealsville, Inc. Haught Funeral Home, Inc. United Food Bank & Services of Plant City State Farm Insurance - Courtney Paat St. Peter's Episcopal Church Walden Lake Community Association Keller Williams Realty Lighthouse Ministries Strawberry Town Cafe Reddy Ice Sysco International Food Group, Inc. 5+ Years Suncoast Community Health Centers, Inc. - Plant City Family Care Enterprise Rent A Car Malissa Crawford - Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, Inc, Gospel METS Ministries, Inc. 1-4 Years University of Florida - Plant City Campus Direct Auto Insurance Tint Plus Sweetgum Environmental Plant City Dentistry Outpatient Rehabilitation Services - SFBH Plant City Dermatology Mt. Zion Assembly of God Davis, J. Coleman T-R Drum LLC Florida E.N.T. & Allergy College Hunks Hauling Junk & College Hunks Moving N Zone Sports Iceberg Air Conditioning and Heating Lighthouse Clipper Coupon Lynn Galindo Do Terra Essential Oils Robin F. Fuson PA Plant City Boxing Gym U.S. Army Recruiting The Law Office of Makar, P.A.

11 Volunteer Opportunities VOLUNTEERING IS A GREAT WAY TO GET INVOLVED

13 RSVP NOW

14 RSVP NOW

15 REGISTER NOW

17 You ve Voted Now discover the winners of the 2018 Best of Plant City Awards Register Now

20 2017 Chair, Yvonne Fry, passes the Gavel to 2018 Chairman of the Board, Jason Jones 2018 Chairman of the Board, Jason Jones, and family Past Chairmen passing the gavel down 2018 Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

21 THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR BANQUET SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR INVITATION SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR PROGRAM SPONSORS

Meetings Community Calendar Click here for all events hosted by organizations in our community:

25 February Calendar ALL THINGS PLANT CITY DURING THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY Chamber Calendar Click here for all events hosted by the Chamber: Monthly Networking Lunches Business After Hours Ribbon Cuttings Committee Meetings Community Calendar Click here for all events hosted by organizations in our community: Fundraisers Workshops Award Dinners Craft Fairs 106 North Evers Street Plant City, FL (813) PlantCity.org

CHAMBER CONNECTIONS. AAA Strawberry Classic Cruise-In. In this issue: The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce enewsletter. President s Message

CHAMBER CONNECTIONS. AAA Strawberry Classic Cruise-In. In this issue: The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce enewsletter. President s Message December 2017 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS The Greater Plant City Chamber of Commerce enewsletter In this issue: President s Message New Members Ribbon Cuttings November Anniversaries Involvement Opportunities