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A Message from our Chairman
 | | Craig Johnson, Chairman |
Fall is my favorite time of the year. COOL Weather. We had a great turnout for our October Lunch hosted by Florida Hospital and the program was outstanding. We had a great time at the Chamber 5K Friday night October 15 with over 130 participants. I hope next year we have 250. It was fun being held at night and running around Downtown Sebring. Sebring Signs and Promotions did a great job hosting our Mixer this month. I really think you're missing out on one of the great benefits of being a Chamber member if you don't attend the lunches and mixers and events.
November is going to be a busy month as well. THE ELECTIONS (make sure you vote), the Florida Hospital Gala, The Downtown Art Festival, 2nd annual Children's Home Society golf tournament, The Ridge Area ARC Weinerfest and Weiner Dog race (by the way our daughter Hannah is the current Weiner Dog senior champion and will look to defend her title).
Don't forget our meeting this month is November at Sun'n Lakes. It will be a Breakfast meeting hosted by Highlands Independent Bank. It's the famous or infamous MONEY GRAB, so get up early and you might win some money. Our mixer this month is November 18th hosted by the Woman's Club of Sebring.
Don't forget to be Thankful for all of the blessings you have. I know it's hard sometimes to count our blessings when times are hard, but I believe it's during these times that we learn to really appreciate the things that matter most, (God, family and friends). Have a great Month. |
From the Desk of Greg 
 | | Greg Harris, President |
The season is upon us!
We've seen the influx of our winter residents throughout the county as they return for what we sometimes take for granted. And, the holiday season is being kicked off with trick-or-treating on the Circle for the little guys.
We have lots of great mixers and membership meetings planned for the balance of the year as well as through next April. Be sure to get involved. They are fun and informative!
Our Annual Banquet is scheduled for January 27 so be sure to mark your calendar and plan on attending. We'll also be having the infamous table-decorating contest which is worth the price of admission just to see.
I am grateful for the opportunity to lead this great Chamber and for the AWESOME support of the greatest members around! If you'd like to know how to get more out of your Chamber membership, give me a call.
Florida Hospital is Sponsor/Presenter for Membership Luncheon
The Greater Sebring Chamber Membership Luncheon was held on October 14 at the Sun 'n Lake Clubhouse. The luncheon was sponsored by Florida Hospital and it kicked off Breast Awareness Month. Those attending the luncheon received a great recycled bag compliments of Florida Hospital. The luncheon was well attended and we want to thank Florida Hospital and the folks at Sun 'n Lake for all that they do for our awesome Chamber!
October Business Expo/Mixer a Success
Sebring Signs and Promotions Hosted our October Business Expo/Mixer.
It was Sebring Signs and Promotions' second annual event and members were treated to a variety of vendors showing their wares and offering up delicious appetizers, treats and drinks. Thanks for all of the members and businesses that made it a special night!
Rooter Rush, line dancing on the Circle, a beer garden donated by Bernie Little and lots of fun!
The response was very positive and everyone seemed to enjoy the venue, the course, the festivities, and the nighttime atmosphere.
I'd like to thank all of the participants, the spectators, the volunteers (SFCC softball and volleyball teams), the 5K committee, the RSVP folks from SFCC, and Magnificent Matt Christian for leading everyone out with the Sebring International Raceway Pace Car!
We'll definitely do this again next year!
Big Crowd Shows for Night Moves
Our 3rd Annual Chamber 5k Walk/Run was held on Friday, October 15 at night, on the Circle! The entries came in slowly at first but picked up nicely prior to the event. We had over 130 participants, music by Rooter Rush, line dancing on the Circle, a beer garden donated by Bernie Little and lots of fun! The response was very positive and everyone seemed to enjoy the venue, the course, the festivities and the nighttime atmosphere. I'd like to thank all of the participants, the spectators, the volunteers (SFCC softball and volleyball teams), the 5K committee, the RSVP folks from SFCC and Magnificent Matt Christian for leading everyone out with the Sebring International Raceway Pace Car!
 | | The Senior Center Hosts its Ribbon-Cutting |
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 Set Your Home Aglow with The Bulb Bin
What started twenty years ago as a simple light bulb and ballast store, has grown into a major staple of Highlands County for most home furnishing needs.
The Bulb Bin, located at 283 U.S. 27 N. in the Village Fountain Plaza, is truly a great story about the persistence and sustainability of a grass-roots, mom-n-pop establishment with a strong desire to serve its market with a hghly focused niche.
 | | The Bulb Bin offers a variety of specialty items such as these fans from the Deco Breeze Collection |
The Bulb Bin was originated in 1989 by Wayne and Kay Todd. Originally oriented toward the commercial market, the Todd's decided years later to cater the business primarily to homeowners. Today the store has quite a loyal customer-base and it has established itself well in the private sector. "Wayne knows almost everyone!" laughs Kay.
The Todd's pride themselves on their knowing their customers and their customers' needs. Their interest is to give each customer a great experience.
 | | The Bulb Bin has more than just light bulbs. |
Enter the store and, chances are, you'll be greeted by Wayne's warm receiving smile and eager disposition to assist. Walk through the store, and you'll be amazed at the depth and scope of the showrooms. Each room features various themes or types of products and the inventory seems endless. | | Furniture, too! |
"We really have almost everything a customer could need for home decor," states Kay.
And truly they do. The Bulb bin has the area's largest selection of silk-string-hardback lamp shades, finials, ballasts, fluorescent fixtures, security lights, ceiling medallions, mirrors, scented candles, table lamps and floor lamps; and, of course, a large assortment of light bulbs.
 | | A striking collection of chandeliers |
But that's not what really sets the Bulb Bin apart. Wayne and Kay really know the business. Lighting has its roots in Wayne's family. His parents owned a lighting store in Highlands County, and Wayne grew up learning the business from them.
 | | The showroom is extensive |
Wayne and Kay were married in 1976, and in 1989 the two decided to initiate their own lighting business. Today their children and grandchildren can also be seen assisting in the store.
"We are so blessed to have our family near us," says Kay.
Unsure of your lighting needs, or how to create that special atmosphere for any room in your house? No worries. The Bulb Bin offers in-home consultations. They can visit your home and advise you of how to provide proper lighting with respect to your budget.
"Often, in these difficult economic times," states Kay, "people will make lighting th e last thing on their list [of home decor projects], but truly it should be one of the first because lighting is a critical factor in the appeal and functionality of a home."
Visit the Bulb Bin at their establishment or stop and say "Hi" at their booth this weekend at the Sebring Art Festival.
When you discover the scope and quality of the products and service, it will soon become your one-stop shop for all your home decor needs!
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| | Call Office Furniture Depot at
866-816-3450 or 863-682-3450 |
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Announcements
Link from the Chamber website to your website! Do you have a web site? Are you linked from the Chamber site to your site? If not follow the simple steps to be linked.
Have the designated voting member of your organization send an e-mail to information@sebring.org with the following information:
· Your full and correct company name
· Your full and correct web site address
· Your name and full e-mail address
We look forward to putting the name of your company as well all of its attributes in front of the 100,000 people that "hit" our web site each month.
Greg is begging again! The Chamber is in need of a 4-legged rolling cart for a large popcorn machine. Our goal is obviously to get it donated, but we are will to purchase if necessary. Our goal is immediate, Greg will give you email blasts and lots of free popcorn! Please let us know if you can help us with this. Crown Pointe Assisted Living and Memory Care Residence is having an Open House on November 10 from 2-4pm. They are located at 5005 Sun N Lake Blvd, Sebring.
Handicapped Americans Love of Life Organization's (H.A.L.L.O.) will host its 14th Annual HOLIDAY BAZAAR & BAKE SALE Saturday, November 20, 2010 at the Sebring Country Estates Clubhouse from 9:00 a.m. until 2 p.m. Come enjoy the following items: · Handcrafted items · Baked goods · Concession open all day · Delicious Menu Inside · Air-conditioned atmosphere. Call 385-1196, or email: halloinc@embarqmail.com for space rental information.
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Please donate to Habitat Home Supply. Are your things taking up space? Don't need it anymore? Getting new stuff? We are in need of the following items: furniture, appliances, home decor, building supplies, electronics, holiday decorations, and sporting goods. CALL 385-7111
Call Habitat, we'll come pick up your used items and give you a tax receipt. We are located at 159 S. Commerce Avenue in Sebring.
Ridge Area ARC is seeking sponsors, vendors and exhibitors for their 2010 WienerFest Featuring the Wiener Walk and the Wiener Race. The event will be Saturday, November 13 from 9 am to 5 pm at the Avon Park Memorial Football Field on State Street. This is the second annual Weiner Dog Race in Highlands County. Thousands of people came out last year to see this unique event. Dogs and their owners from all over the state enter this race. Please feel free to contact Rhonda Beckman, Chief Executive Officer for Ridge Area ARC @ (863) 452-1295 ext 112, for any questions or if you require any additional information. |
The Florida Sheriff's Youth Ranches is hosting a Turkey Shoot on Sunday, November 7 from 10 am to 3 pm. Click Here for more details.
GREEN - GREENER - GREENEST EXPO is gearing up. This event is being conducted by the Heartland Sun Times in conjunction with Lakeshore Mall. This event is ESPECIALLY designed for companies that offer GREEN (Renewable) products or ECO Friendly services for a more SUSTAINABLE future! It will offer you a great venue for you to meet potential clients face to face and demonstrate your services and sell your products right inside the Lakeshore Mall (without having to pay expensive mall rent!!!) There are many levels of participation suitable for EVERY budget! IN FACT.....For as little as $35.00.....your company can be a part of this UNIQUE and SPECIAL EVENT! For more information, contact Annette Frederick, Heartland Sun Times, at 863-632-2134. Email: Annette@heartlandsuntimes.comThe Kenilworth Lodge invites you to ring in the New Year tropical style. Gary Roland and the Landsharks will be performing all your favorites (Jimmy Buffet, Beach Boys, Bob Marley and more) on New Year's Eve as you enjoy butler-served appetizers, a surf-n-turf buffet, beer and wine (provided by Cusworth Arms), and a great festive atmosphere! The cost is $121 pp that includes accommodations, dinner, show, and 3 drinks; or $92 pp for dinner, show, and 3 drinks. For reservations or information, call Kathy at 800-423-5939.
Faith Lutheran Church presents a Christmas Concert by Paul Todd. The event will take place Monday, November 29, at 7 pm. Tickets are $10. Paul Todd is a prolific writer, entertainer, composer, arranger, & singer. He has opened for the Pointer Sisters, Rich Little, The Gatlin Brothers, and Joan Rivers. He has worked with Amy Grant, Michael Smith and Phil Driscol. Paul has composed songs for the Make A Wish Foundation recorded by Amy Grant, "Christmas is for Children" for the Toys for Tots Program & "Men in Mission" for the Men in Mission organization. Tickets may be purchased in the church office from 9:00am - 1:00pm Monday through Friday, in Faith's Closet from 10am-2pm Tuesday through Friday, or in the sanctuary the night of the concert.
Please Welcome Homemade Creations, featuring specialty cakes, cupcakes, muffins, pies, Breyers Ice Cream, milk shakes, truffles, chocolate covered rice crispy treats, and more. Located two doors down from Depot Restaurant. Call them at 863-452-9429 or visit them at homemadecreation.com. Children's Home Society of Florida (CHS) invites golfers to the 2nd Annual Golf Tournament benefiting the Hansen Center in Highlands County on Saturday November 13, 2010 at Sun N' Lakes Golf and Country Club here in Highlands County. (See article)
If your air conditioner is 10 years or older, you should consider replacing your old inefficient system before $1500 federal tax credits expire on December 31, 2010. To find out about the services of Air and Electrical Services Click Here.
Advertising "special" for Chamber of Commerce members only
WFHT 1390am is offering each of the members of the Chamber of Commerce in Sebring a free promotional package of 50 (fifty) 30-second spot advertisements. Since the station has a new format and the Dave McCoy is new resident to the area, WFHT 1390 wants to work with Chamber members to encourage them to discover the value of advertising on the station over time. This offer is absolutely free and we will even produce your ad if you would like.
To receive the spots, please contact Timothy Saenz at tim@mywfht.com or call the station 863-657-2097. The Lake Placid Noon Rotary Club invites you to attend our 7th annual Wild Game Dinner on December 4th. This is our primary fund raiser and helps support many charitable organizations in Highlands County, as well as internationally. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, but slots are filling fast. For more information about the event and ticket locations Click Here. Kegel Bowling Center is pleased to offer Chamber members a 15% discount on any 3-party packages during the holiday season. Click Herefor more information. MarketPlace Central Publications is proud to announce the 3rd Edition of The Best Value of Highlands Magazine. This publication is direct mailed to 15,000 homes and displayed in area businesses in order to reach 20,000 customers. Customers can also view your business on our website and keep them updated with events going on in our community. This allows you three ways to reach customers for only pennies per issues. The Best Values of Highlands is a publication for businesses and professionals and we would love to profile you as a person and/or advertise your business in order to notify the public of your products, services, credentials and area of expertise. I would love to meet with you and discuss your advertising opportunities. 3rd Edition will be in mail boxes Nov. 29th. Deadline is Nov. 5. Call Cindy Sebring Adams, Publisher, at 863-781-0344.
Residence Inn suggests an Exchange Party. It's time for our Annual Employee Holiday Party and I am hoping our fellow Chamber Members might be able to participate in an exchange program this year and years to come. I would like to trade one night's lodging at a value of $150.00 per company. I will be able to trade at least 3 Gift Certificates. I think this might be a fun idea. If you are interested, please contact me, Bruline Bikar/General Manager, at 863-314-9100. Le Lumiere offers discounted specials. Did you miss our 5 Year Anniversary Celebration In May? It's not too late! We thought we would bring back some of the specials for you! Look for these specials during the month of November! All are welcome to participate. Get 10% off a Deluxe or Specialty Facial, Back Treatment or 60 Minute Massage held during November 2010. We will also be holding a raffle at the end of the month for special prizes. Entering is easy, just come in for a service between November 1st and November 30th. The more services you do the more chances you have to win! Get 15% off any retail product purchase of $35.00 or more during November 2010. Look for our Holiday Gift Certificate Offer available November 22nd - December 23rd 2010. For every $50.00 you spend on gift certificates you'll receive 5% off your next service. Terms and conditions apply -please see receptionist for full details. The Sebring Sunrise Rotary Club Proudly Presents its 3rd Annual Charity Cruise Raffle. This is a $2500 value trip for two to any Caribbean destination for any time of the year. Raffle tickets are available for a $10 donation. The winning ticket will be selected live on the Morning Dave Show Lite on 105.7 right after the 7 am news on December 24. To purchase a ticket, you may contact the Sebring Sunrise Rotary Club at 863-414-6339; or go to sebringsunriserotary.com It's Apple Time! It's the 41st Annual Gene Scheck Rotary Apple and Sweet Apple Cider Sale. Be sure to get your order in at the Lakeshore Mall on Thursday, November 11; Or, you can visit the website sebringrotaryapples.com. Finally, you can just Click Here to obtain an order form and submit the order form to Greg Harris and he will make sure it gets to the right Rotarian. The Rotary Club announces a Bar-B-Que on Thursday, November 11, from 8am to 3pm or until sold out. It will be at the Lakeshore Mall (next to the Rotary Apple/Cider Sale). All proceeds will go to New Testament Mission. Preorders will be accepted until November 2. For further information and to pre-order, call Robert or Mary Strenth at 863-381--5127 or 863-385-8538. The Sebring Sunrise Rotary Club is selling Christmas Wreaths this year. The proceeds help fund the over 25 organizations it supports. The wreaths are beautiful and fairly inexpensive. To see the wreaths, Click Here. Since this fundraiser was my idea and I have a big mouth, I have bet the entire club that I would out sell them! So, if you want a beautiful wreath....BUY from ME!!!!!!!! Thanks, Greg Habitat for Humanity needs you! Are you a member of a group? Are you part of a service-oriented church? Get a group together to make a real difference in your very own backyard. There is no way to end substandard living conditions unless we work together to end them. Don't be fooled into thinking everyone else is volunteering, so you don't need to. One person on a Habitat worksite makes a huge impact. Come out to Mason's Ridge-just once this fall. Make the commitment! Give your time-it's as valuable to us as it is to you. Share the wealth! Volunteer days are Monday through Saturday. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Call 863.402.2915 to sign up or e-mail at jmcgee@habitathighlands.org. If your air conditioner is 10 years or older, you should consider replacing your old inefficient system before $1500 federal tax credits expire on December 31, 2010. To find out about the services of Ridge Air Conditioning, Click Here for details. Heartland Young Professionals is looking for entrants to participate in this year's Christmas parade titled "A Homegrown Christmas." Click Here to obtain the entry form. The Traveling Vietnam Veterans Museum is open to the public from November 18 through the 21st at the Lakeshore Mall. Click Herefor more details. |
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Welcome New Members!
Welcome to our newest 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!
ALDI (Florida), LLC at 2900 New Life Way, Sebring, FL 33870. Phone: 863.353.4919. CHOICE ENVIRONMENTAL at 5151 Kenilworth, Sebring, FL 33870 Phone: 863.655.0005. Contact: Jim Wheatley. jwheatlidc@aol.com Specializing in Waste Services/Environmental Services. GENIUS PROMOS at 703 Lucerne Avenue #205, Lake Worth, FL 33460. Contact: Noelle Younk. nvelle@geniuspromos.com Advertising Specialties/Promotional Marketing, cups, hats, t-shirts, pens, etc. w/company logos. HIGHLANDS COUNTY QUILT GUILD at P.O. Box 9040, Sebring, FL 33875. Phone: 863.471.0694. Contact: Barbara Black and Karen Doughty hcquilt2011@gmail.com The Quilt Guild is a non-profit organization that exist to create, stimulate, maintain, and record an interest in all matters pertaining to the making, collecting and preserving of quilts and to establish and promote educational and philanthropic endeavors through quilting. This is our Guild "Mission Statement" HIGHLANDS DJ PRODUCTIONS at P.O. Box 505, Lake Placid, FL 33825
Phone: 863.464.1138. Contact: Charles Worley and Jodi Worley
highlands-dj-productions@hotmail.com
Highland's DJ Productions is a DJ duo consisting of two of the best disc jockeys that worked the circuit on the east coast of Southern Florida (from West Palm Beach to Miami) for many years. They have over 40 years of DJ experience including FM and AM radio, nightclubs, private parties and major outdoor events. They have a sound system capable of serving your smallest party to the largest corporate outdoor event. The entertainment fits your needs ranging from the more conservative Sweet 16 and retirement parties to the wildest country, dance club, hip hop or rock n roll shows and adult themed entertainment. And yes, with the later, there are dancer poles for the ladies who had always dreamed of "taking the stage". We also have the very popular "top 40" shows where there is a fine blend of all genres of today's hits. With over 70,000 songs in our library and the capability to grab a song instantly off the internet if we don't have it, there will never be a request that is not fulfilled. Simply put Highlands DJ Productions gives you "more bang for your buck" and is sure to make your event, no matter how large or small, an unbelievable success.
THIN & HEALTHY'S TOTAL SOLUTION at 13 Ryant Blvd, Sebring, FL 33870. Phone: 863.382.4447. Contact: Dr. Keatley Waldron and
Sheri Pickard. dwtotalsolutions@yahoo.com
USANA HEALTH SCIENCES at 3505 Par Road, Sebring, FL 33872. Phone: 863.381.5822. Contact: Shannon Williams.
Shanwill89@yahoo.com
Villa Lotela and Conna Walker at 700 E Cornell Street, Avon Park, FL 33825. Phone: 863.873.9670. www.villalotela.com. Contact: Conna Walker at connawalker@gmail.com
Owns 5 seasonal, corporate, short term or annual, lakefront, completely furnished apartments.
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Calendar of Events
For up-to-the-minute, real-time information about upcoming events; or to submit an event, please
Click Here.
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Heartland Cultural Alliance
Makes Major Strides
The newly reorganized and invigorated heartland Cultural Alliance has taken some major initiaves in establishing credibility and is moving toward its goal of having Highlands County promoted as an arts & culture destination.
First, we have sponsored the county's first themed art show which has exceeded expectations in attendance and publicity. And since it was an off- season event it stood to establish a measure of local interest and support of Highlands County artists
Next, HCA has opened its own Gallery of Fine Art at Sebring Regional Airport with an exhibit of Jim Fitch's art and a tribute to his contributions to the Highlands County art community. The gallery's airport location will enable corporate executives who fly private jets into the county associate art and culture with Highlands County. It also serves to expose local artists to a population with disposable income who are likely art buyers
Our ad campaign educating the public about the importance of art & culture to economic growth, academic achievement, and quality of life in Highlands County is in full swing.
Finally, the first weekend in December HCA, in partnership with WHFT Radio, will be producing the county's first Music Fest and art show at Lake Shore Mall. This three day event will highlight the talent of local musical groups to the world. More to come on this watershed event.
HCA Today is another step in uniting the creative community to enrich the lives of all who live in and visit Highlands County. This is your publication. Bring forth your announcements, events, ideas and comments. Let's share, network, unite and prosper.
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This is Your Newsletter
We encourage all Chamber members to participate in this newsletter by submitting articles, press releases, upcoming events, and announcements.
If you have an idea for an article or would like to communicate news about your organization, please call Jennifer Mattison at 863-202-6558.
Anyone interested in advertising, should call the Chamber at 385-8448. |
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Collegiate Effort to Educate on the Benefits of Green
Florida Campus Compact and The South Florida Community College Honors Program will host a Day Institute on "Green Energy, Green Revolution, Green Jobs," Friday, Nov. 5, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., in the SFCC University Center Auditorium, Highlands Campus.
The Day Institute will focus on broadening student, faculty, and community participation in green service-learning projects while promoting awareness of the biofuels industry and other green jobs for Highlands County.
Guest speakers include Dan P. Murphy, director, Highlands County Economic Development Commission, who will speak on the economic future of Highlands County; Dr. Kevin Cooper, director, Indian River State College Banner Center for Energy, who will focus on green industries, solar panels, and start-ups and technology training for small businesses; and Dr. John Alleyne, Highlands County UF/IFAS Agricultural Extension, who will speak about ongoing biofuels research and its potential for green jobs.
The program is free and open to the public. |
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CHS Golf Tournament to Benefit Hansen Center
Children's Home Society of Florida (CHS) invites golfers to the 2nd Annual Golf Tournament benefiting the Hansen Center in Highlands County on Saturday November 13, 2010 at Sun N' Lakes Golf and Country Club here in Highlands County.
The event will kick-off with registration at 7:30 a.m. followed by a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Lunch, along with an awards ceremony and prize drawings, will conclude the event at 1:00 p.m.
All proceeds from the tournament will go directly to support this vital program for teen girls in Highlands County.
Hansen Center, known in the community as Hansen House, provides emergency group care and shelter services for up to 12 girls ages 13 to 17 who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect.
For more information on sponsorships, volunteering or participating in this event, please contact Summer Rose Tucker at summer@fastlanepromotions.biz or 863-414-4452. Please visit us at www.chsfl.org or www.facebook.com/CHSgulfcoast. |
Public Service Message from the Sheriff
This month I'm borrowing the Sheriff's space to personally thank everyone in Highlands County who made the recent Florida Crime Prevention Association's Southern States Conference a big success. For those of you who may not know, we hosted this state-wide Conference at the Four Points Sheraton and the Sebring International Raceway October 18th through the 21st. Representatives from Avon Park Police Department, Sebring Police Department and the Highlands County Sheriff's Office participated in Opening Ceremonies, the Awards Banquet and Honor Guard duties. Unfortunately the event conflicted with several big events in Lake Placid however we still had support from the Lake Placid Police Department in spirit! The Tourist Development Council was instrumental in providing funding for this event so a big thank you goes out to them as well. In addition many local vendors stepped up to the plate to make the Conference great, providing door prizes, food and beverages and other donations to the cause.
I also wanted you to know that the attendees at the Conference were very complimentary of all the businesses they visited while they were here. Many people went to local eateries for both lunch and dinner and were very happy with the food and the service they received. Others visited stores and made purchases. Of the 84 people and their families who attended this event, I never got even one dissatisfied comment throughout the entire week. This is a tremendous testimony to what great business people we have in this county. I am proud to be able to host events like this because I know I can depend on you! Thank you so very much!
Nell Hays, Crime Prevention Specialist for the Highlands County Sheriff's Office,
Region 6 Representative,
Florida Crime Prevention Association Board of Directors |
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