Craig Johnson, Chairman

Hard to believe half of the year is already gone.  This year's Heartland Triathlon was a Huge success.  I would like to personally thank Cherie Starr and all of the staff and support people for all of their efforts. This was my first year working and attending the Tri and I have to say I was extremely impressed. This is one of the premier events in Highlands County.  If swimming a ¼ of a mile, riding a bike for 15 miles and running 5K isn't your thing, you can be one of the event volunteers next year.  It was really cool to see all of the local participants competing this year.
 
July is always a favorite month for me as we celebrate the 4th of July and this great nation's independence.  I hope you all will take time this month to reflect and thank God for all of the blessings we enjoy living in the greatest country on earth.  We need to remember the price that was paid and is still being paid for this freedom, and thank keep our soldiers in our prayers.  I know that everyone will enjoy the fireworks this year and Thank You to all who contributed.
 
Have a great month.

Greg Harris, President

We've had some outstanding fun and some remarkable successes during the past month. I'd like to share them with you and acknowledge those fantastic members who continue to MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Heartland Triathlon Team Wins Gold Medal!

To all of the athletes, sponsors, volunteers, city and county personnel, and the residents that participated in our recent triathlon, I thank you for your support! Our fifth annual Heartland Triathlon was a huge success, and it would not have been possible without the help and assistance from all of you.

Planning for this year's event started over 10 months ago with a committee of 17 under the tutelage of USAT Certified Race Director Cherie Starr. We were fortunate to attract over 30 sponsors, 590 participants and more than 150 volunteers! Six states, 16 Florida cities, 77 kids, 441 adults, and 72 relay participants made up this year's event.

 

The Heartland Triathlon also hosted our monthly Chamber Luncheon held at Golf Hammock.

The Olive Garden supported the effort by sponsoring a pasta bash. The feast was attended by over 425 athletes and guests. Michellie Jones, Olympian and Ironman World Champion, hosted the All-American Luncheon, sponsored by Woody's BBQ, for two dozen athletes and their guests.

The Chamber wishes to give special thanks to all those that made this great day happen. Special thanks to guest speaker Eric Moore who presented a history of the Heartland Triathlon and how it came to be; Roger and the entire staff of Mulligans Restaurant for the outstanding lunch and accommodating the unexpected (but THANKFUL!) large crowd; and Race Director Cherie Star and several members of the Triathlon Committee who were on hand to talk with the membership.

Thank you everyone for making The Greater Sebring Chamber of Commerce 2010 Heartland Triathlon the BEST!

Lakeview Plaza Mixer is Fun for All
Many Chamber members were treated to a mixer at the Lakeview Plaza across from beautiful Lake Jackson, on Thursday, June 17th. The mixer, hosted by Blackman Properties, showcased the tenants in the Plaza with all being open and serving delicious hors d' oeuvres!

The tours of the property included each business in the plaza, the Highlands Food Bank and the mini storage facilities behind the plaza. Chamber Members Cupcakes Royale and Changes Salon were on hand as Chamber Members and plaza tenants. Hostess Martile Blackman did an outstanding job coordinating the event with all of the businesses, the awesome food, the beverages and the BIG Tent!

Mixer Showcases New Facilities

M. E. Gose Construction, Central Florida Neuropsychology and Upland Homes hosted a Chamber Mixer to show off their new facilities. Tours were provided throughout the evening, music was played in the back and the conference room was filled with food and libation!

The offices are absolutely beautiful! The décor and design schemes were spectacular with flowing fountains, large screen TV's, lots of different building materials for many different tastes!

The evening was capped off with the drawing of a dozen door prizes donated from the membership!

 

Sun 'n Lakes Fireworks Show. Sun 'n Lakes is hosting an Indpendence Day Celebration on July 2, from 5 to 10 p.m. Fireworks at 9 p.m. There will be live entertainment, children's activities, giveaways, raffles, face painting, a giant slide, balloon animals, a magician, a water slide, and a bounce gym. Fun for the whole family!

 

Sebring Fireworks Show. The Sebring Fireworks Show, presented by your Chamber, will be SATURDAY the 3RD behind the Civic Center. Donations are still being accepted for the show. Vendor booths are still available. Entertainment will include a concert by Heartland Pops; food by the Strenths; National Anthem perfofmed by Stephanie Sherrae; a chocolate chip eating contest sponsored by Alan Jay Automotive Network(three divisions: kids, teens, and adult. Please sign up at the Chamber or call 385-8448 to enter the contest).

Free Patriotic Review. Highlands Little Theatre announces a Free Patriotic Review on Saturday, July 3. Performances will be every hour on the hour until 3 pm. Doors open at 10:30 am. Bring the family and enjoy a patriotic holiday by enjoying hot dogs, Goldies' Famous Chili, brats, coleslaw, soda, beer, and baked beans. Proceeds benefit HLT's JaneLou Buck Scholarship Fund.

Sebring Lakeside Golf Resort/July 4th Patriotic Weekend. Sebring Lakeside Golf Resort announces an opportunity to stay in one of their newly remodeled luxury rooms on the white sandy shores of Lake Sebring for the July 4th weekend. With discounted packages starting at $125 (per person) for 3 days and 2 nights, guests will enjoy "Red, White and Blue Breakfasts and Socials," Friday dinner in the Tea Room with a presentation by a keynote speaker, and a Saturday seminar and focus group luncheon designed to connect guests with community leaders. There will be extended entertainment on both Saturday and Sunday. Reservations can be made by calling 385-7113.

Scholarship Luncheon. The Chamber Scholarship Luncheon is July 8th at the Civic Center at 11:45 am. Lunch is free! All monies raised at the luncheon go directly to the annual student scholarship fund, and are typically matched by Alan Wildstein!

Leadership Highlands Class of 2011. Leadership Highlands is now accepting applications for participants. Be a graduate of this exceptional learning and networking opportunity. Application packets may be obtained from the Community Education office at South Florida Community College (call 784-7392); the Avon Park Chamber of Commerce (call 453-3350); the Greater Sebring Chamber of Commerce (call 385-8448); and the Greater Lake Placid Chamber of Commerce (call 465-4331). Packets are due by the close of business on Thursday, July 8.

Mixer Opening. There is a mixer opening for Thursday, July 15th.
If you are interested in hosting please call the Chamber office at 385-8448 and let Greg know!

Children's Museum Hosts Amazing Race. Come support this staple in our community; a facility that has been a magical and entertaining place for so many children. The Children's Museum in Sebring is raising funds by hosting the Amazing Race on July 17. Thirty teams of two will compete amongst each other by following clues, navigating detours and roadblocks, and striving to be the first to reach the final destination somewhere in Highlands County. Various prizes will be awarded. Grand prizes are I PADS. Register by July 9 at the Museum or call 385-5437

 

Charles Stuart, owner of Highlands Jewelers

Charles Stuart, owner of Highlands Jewelers, has an eye for beauty and he isn't afraid to leave his hometown to obtain it.

 

Having recently returned from a trip to Antwerp, Belgium--known as the diamond capital of the world--Stuart expresses his deep interest in his industry and firm intent to bring back the finest gems to his shop.

 

"I have been going there [Antwerp] since 1987. This is where I go to buy diamonds. I go with our Master Jewelers group which allows us access to the largest and finest diamond manufacturers in the industry."

 

Stuart has a meticulous eye and discriminating tastes. He is no stranger to his craft. He learned the trade on the knee of his father Hank.

 

"I was only ten, but I had a real natural interest in the jewels my dad worked with. I would ask him, 'What's that?' about each of them. We didn't have video games back then (laugh)."

 

Hank opened the doors of Highlands Jewelers in 1972. Charles began working full-time with the company in 1980 and became a Certified Gemologist in 1988. He assumed the business two years later when his dad retired.

 

His store is currently the only member of the American Gem Society and Master IJO Jewelers in the Highlands area.

 

"Both of these organizations require strict standards for expertise, ethics, honesty, and trust, which are the motto's we live by."

 

If you visit Highlands Jewelers today, you will discover that it is a true family-owned business. Charles' son, Walter, has been with the company since 2003. A JA Certified Bench Jeweler, Walter has been rigorously tested by the Jewelers of America certification program

 

"So you know your jewelry is in the hands of an expert. If your jeweler is not certified by Jewelers of America, you may want to ask why not," says Charles.

 

Charles' wife, Francis, has been with the company since 1984.  According to Charles, Francis can make your dreams come true.

 

"If you are looking for fine jewelry, there is no one better than her to help you find what you are looking for. She truly has the desire, knowledge and caring attitude to make your wishes come true. Take it from me, I married her 25 years ago, and it was the best decision I have ever made"

 

Visit Highlands Jewelers and say "Hi" to the family. While you're there, take a look at the signature line of Ideal Cut Diamonds they created in cooperation with their contacts in Antwerp. The sparkle, brilliance, and fire of these diamonds are exceptional.

 

"Because we do it ourselves, we can save our customers a considerable amount of money of other branded diamonds. Customers that have purchased our "Fire of Light" diamonds are amazed at the quality and value of these diamonds."

 

 

 

 

Thank you to all those that have shown tremendous support for this year's Independence Day fireworks celebration! You really have shown
the spirit of this selfless holiday. Here is a sampling of the contributions that have either been made or committed by several generous vendors.  

Thnk you for  your generous support. Happy 4th of July. You're ALL the GREATEST!!!!

By the way, there is still time to contribute to this event! We are only short by less than $1,000!!! YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Welcome to April and May's new members of the Greater Sebring Chamber of Commerce. Be sure to visit their establishments, welcome them, and give them a taste of our great Sebring hospitality!

B I PUBLISHING at 2103 Timothy Terr, Valrico, FL 33594. Phone: 813.684.1514. Contact: James Gresh. bipub@verizon.net

C. PARKE SUTHERLAND, P.A. at 900 West Main St, Avon Park, FL 33825. Phone: 452.6900. Contact: C. Parke Southerland, P.A. cps@avonparklaw.com

CHANGES SALON UNLIMITED at 209 US HWY 27 South Sebring, FL 33870. Phone: 386.0777. Contact: Kimberly Hall. kimmhall@hotmail.com

Changes Salon Unlimited is now open for business from 8:00 am - 8:00 pm Monday - Friday and from 8:00 am - 2:00 pm on Saturdays.

FLORIDA MOBILE HOME SERVICES, INC. at 15 Pine Ridge Drive, Lake Placid, FL 33852. Phone: 465.5322. Contact: Patrick Corley. fmhs@netzero.net

Call us for any and all cleaning and repair/installation issues with your home or business. We can do the following: pressure cleaning of your house, out- buildings or driveways; gutter cleaning or replacement; building re-siding; window or door replacement or repair; skirting repair or installation; driveway, sidewalk, or curb replacement or repair; interior repairs that include drywall, paneling, floors and trim. If your facility is out of sorts we will level your premises.

HEARTLAND NATIONAL BANK at 320 US HWY 27 North Sebring, FL 33870. Phone: 386.1300. Contact: Janice Walker. bank@heartlandnb.com

The HEARTLAND POPS at 2130 Dog Leg Dr, Sebring, FL, 33872. Phone: 314-8877. Contact: Steve Newell (capt_drummer@yahoo.com). Please visit our website (under construction) at heartlandpops.org.

The Heartland Pops was formed in August of 2009 to provide better playing opportunities for area musicians, thereby providing a higher level of musical entertainment for our audiences. We feature some of the best musical talent in the Heartlands and we all volunteer our time and musical talent. We believe in focused rehearsals, which in turn, lead to quality performances. The POPS offers advanced student musicians the opportunity to enjoy the process of playing with experienced musicians, some of whom have well over fifty years of musical experience. The future is bright for these students. As we grow, this fine musical organization will look forward to awarding scholarships to our student members. The POPS is extremely excited with the talent of our musicians and the rich sound we produce. We welcome experienced musicians.

IDEAL GOLF at 3750 US HWY 27 North Suite 2D, Sebring, FL 33870. Contact: Bill Simmons. idealgolf@gmail.com

We specialize in retail golf equipment, clubs, bags, shoes, balls and equipment. Come see us!

JD FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS & INSURANCE GROUP, INC. at 3425 Mockingbird Dr, Sebring, FL 33875. Phone: 381.7633. Contact: Joseph DeRenzis, Jr. jdfinancila@embarqmail.com

Joseph DeRenzis is a member of the National ETHICS Bureau and is on the approved vendor with the Highlands County School System. He has been serving Highlands County for over 10 years and offers a complimentary consultation that will include a detailed review of your current financial portfolio as well as information on new programs and financial concepts. As an independent agent, he will work with you, the consumer, not the company. In addition he will help you learn to set sensible and achievable retirement goals.

LAKE OKEECHOBEE INSURANCE, INC. at 3214 US HWY 27 South Sebring, FL 33870. Contact: Julie Wudtke. jwudtke@embarqmail.com
Lake Okeechobee Insurance opened their first office in Okeechobee in 1995. In 2004, we opened the Sebring Office. We are an independent insurance agency, serving both Highlands and Okeechobee county residents in most lines of insurance.

LITTLE LAMBS INC. at P.O. Box 504, Sebring, FL 33871. Phone: 471.2626. Contact: Helen Bingenheimer. hjbinge@gmail.com

For the last 26 years, John Sala has been dedicating his life to helping men and women behind bars. John is aware of the anger, loneliness, futility, and despair that lurks in the prison cells of men and women who have destroyed their families, hurt their victims, and also maimed and warped their own lives. They are literally dying to know love, and we are dedicated to showing them the love of God.

MARKETPLACE CENTRAL PUBLICATIONS & ADVERTISING at 412 Rest Haven Rd, Zolfo Springs, FL 33890. Phone: 863.781.0344. Contact: Cindy Sebring Adams. Marketplacecentral.cindy@gmail.com

Marketplace is a business advertising magazine that does direct mailing directly to your home and business in Highlands County.

PRECIOUS ANGELS HOME CARE at 115 S Desoto Ave, Arcadia, FL 34266 863.990.1340. Contact: Lori Coker. loricoker@preciousangelshomecare.com

Precious Angels is "Assisted Living" in your own home. Our caregivers provide a wide range of daily personal services, including companionship, family respite, transportation/errands, meal preparation and other services. The other services include laundry, grooming/dressing, standby bathing, family updates, grocery shopping, medication reminders, changing the linens and encouraging independence. Precious Angels is licensed and insured, do background checks on all of there caregivers while providing in-home services and transportation and travel services. Our Mission Statement is our promise to provide you're "Precious Angels" with superior services while enhancing their lives with a nurturing relationship created by our staff of professionals to ensure quality of life.

RAM JACK FOUNDATION SYSTEMS of FLORIDA, INC. at 110 Gates Ave. Lake Placid, FL 33852. Contact: Richard Distefano, President. distefanogc@aol.com

We are an aggressive company specializing in foundation repair. We fix settling homes and buildings, putting in new construction piling under new buildings.

RE/MAX REALTY PLUS at 809 US HWY 27 South Sebring, FL 33870. Phone: 385.0077. Contact: Teresa & Kevin Bock. teresa@teresabock.com

Our Success Depends Upon Your Satisfaction. Kevin and Teresa along with their children, Alicia now 26 & Bradly 25 moved to Sebring, FL in March of 1988, from a small rural town of Maquoketa, Iowa. In 2007 Kevin and Teresa joined RE/MAX REALTY PLUS and their winning team of real estate professionals. Both are committed to offering the best customer service and the latest technology in marketing their listings more efficiently. They are always hands on when it comes to every detail of the listing and closing process so that each deal is a done deal! Kevin and Teresa strive to provide the best service possible to their customers. Whether it is listing or selling property our customers are always number ONE. Kevin and Teresa believe in giving back to the community and are proud sponsors of the Children's Miracle Network. A portion of the Bock's commission from every sale is donated to the All Children's Hospital, a member of our local Miracle Network, in St. Petersburg, FL.

Choosing where to live is one of the most important decisions you will make. Let us help you make the right move!

Call Kevin or Teresa for all your real estate needs in the Highlands County area.

URBAN TRUST BANK at 3525 US HWY 27 North Sebring, FL 33870. Phone: 314.9130. Contact: Eric J. Silsby. esildby@urbantrustbank.com

Urban Trust Bank (UTB) is a federally charted community oriented bank founded by legendary entrepreneur Robert L. Johnson. UTB is successfully executing an innovative business model that provides value-oriented, common-sense banking and mortgage services through a network of branches in Florida and Washington, DC area. Additionally, UTB is developing a suite of products to empower individuals and families in diverse communities who have been underserved or undervalued by traditional financial institution. UTB is among the largest African-American controlled banks in the country and has been highlighted in national and local media, including the Washington Post, the Wall Street Journal, CNBC, The Orlando Business Journal, and USA Today. UTB is designed as well capitalized by the Office of Thrift Supervision, the highest possible capital rating. UTB is headquartered in Central Florida and has Offices near Washington, DC.

WELLS FARGO ADVISORS at 211 US Hwy 27 North Sebring, Fl 33870. Wesley Hollan, Financial Advisor. Wesley.hollan@wfadvisors.com

When you work with Wells Fargo Advisors, you can expect the service and attention of a dedicated, experienced Financial Advisor and the support and resources of a world-class financial institution. As a part of Wells Fargo & Co, Wells Fargo Advisors connects you to some of the industry's finest financial service professionals. Our Financial Advisors draw on a talented force of market analysts, financial planning and investment specialists, and portfolio managers to provide you with the advice and guidance that can help you reach your goals.

 

 

 

 

 

MEH2A Right Workers, Right Place, Right Time: Call 863-452-0101

 

SFCC announces its new Time Management for Personal and Professional Development Workshop. The debut workshop is slated for Friday, July 23 from 1 to 5 p.m.

 

The introductory program is the first in a series of four new workshops that will be conducted the last Friday of every month at SFCC's Corporate and Continuing Education Department.

 

The workshop will address the P-force Principles, elements that are the foundation for successful time management, as well as how to deal with goal implementation, using technology and templates, purpose planning, and achieving a well-balanced life.

 

The remaining workshops in the series are Dealing with Difficult People, Stress Management, and Business Writing and Grammar.

 

Anyone interested in enrolling for the above workshops should call Lorrie Key, SFCC, at 863-784-7033.