A Message from our Chairman Happy New Year!
| | Craig Johnson, Chairman |
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and New Years. This has been a good year at our Chamber. I am proud to say that Your Chamber has ended this year with more members and stronger financials than we began the year and it has been great to see all of the excitement at our Chamber this year. Greg has done an outstanding job as President and I credit him for creating a lot this excitement (well, all except those darned emails), just kidding Greg.
January 27th, 2011 is the Annual Chamber Awards Banquet at Sun'n Lakes from 6 pm 'til ? You don't want to miss this year's event.
We will return to our monthly Chamber luncheon at Sun'n Lakes on the 13th from 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM, and our monthly mixer is on January 20 at the Highlands County Convention Center from 5 - 7 pm.
This will be my last "Chairman's Letter." I can't believe my year as Chairman went by so fast. I have thoroughly enjoyed serving as Chairman of The Greater Sebring Chamber this year, and working with an outstanding Board of Directors.
I would like to take this opportunity to THANK the Board, Greg, and You our members for all of your support. An organization is only as good as its members and we have Great Members. I would like to wish Nick Schommer (Chairman for 2011) all the best. I know Nick will do an outstanding job.
I wish all of you a very prosperous 2011. It's great to be a (Florida Gator), I mean it's great to be a Greater Sebring Chamber Member. |
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From the Desk of Greg
 | | Greg Harris, President |
Wow, 2010 was a Cool Year!
We got a lot accomplished at the Chamber with your help!
We retired a significant amount of debt, we grew the membership, and we had some fun along the way!
The challenges we face this new year are: developiing new fund-raising programs, encouraging member retention, hosting member & board orientation, having the Ambassadors maintain a consistent 15 members, hosting quarterly Chamber "lunch & learn" programs, developing a new interactive web page, developing social networking tools, and promoting ALL chamber members.
If you are interested in helping in any of these areas, please let me know!
I look forward to working for all of you!
Greg
The Stephanie Sherrae Salon Hosts Outstanding Mixer!
December's Chamber Mixer was held on December 16th at The Stephanie Sherrae Salon. Stephanie and her crew did an awesome job!! From the decorations and scents to the food and festive drinks, everyone could feel the Holiday Spirit abound! Many new Chamber Ambassadors and New Members were in attendance.
The Stephanie Sherrae Salon is located next to Beef O'Brady's in North Sebring. Stop in and see what you missed! We can't wait for her next Chamber Mixer!!


Mayor Proclaims Thelma Pyle Day! by contributor Will Stageman
The Sebring City Council proclaimed Friday, December 10th as Thelma Pyle Day. Sebring Mayor George Hensley read the proclamation to a gathering of Pyle's family and friends in the Chamber Offices.
For Thelma, the day was extra special as she was turning 80 years old the next day! She has spent half her life in service to the promotion and improvement of the City of Sebring.

Congratulations, Thelma! We're proud to have such a wonderful woman dedicated to helping our city!
Chamber Hosts Annual Christmas Party
The Chamber held its annual Christmas party on December 17th. Members were treated to eats, drinks and merriment while being serendaded by Steve Jones!

 
Generous Contributions Made at Chamber Breakfast
The December Chamber members were treated to a wonderful concert of Christmas favorites by the elite of the Sebring Choir. The show was held at the new Island View Lakefront Restaurant and Pub at Sun 'n Lakes. Megan and the staff at Sun 'n Lakes did an outstanding job!
 
As is tradition during the show, the plate is passed and members donate to the show choir to help offset expenses. Alan Wildstein has historically matched the monies raised. However, this year Alan added $1600.00 from his own pocket to go along with the $400.00 contributed by the audience, bringing the total gift to over $2,000.00!
 
Alan, you are truly an amazing individual!
Lunch with Legends
Kicking off the new race series at the Sebring International Raceway,
The Legends Racing--a Bobby Rahal Signature Event--was the Lunch
with Legends event on the Circle.

The crowd was treated to vintage race cars roaring into the Downtown
Circle by sheriff's escort. The main attraction was Bobby Rahal, event
sponsor, driving a vintage classic and leading the others into Sebring.
Once in town, Rahal took plenty of time to sign posters for all that wanted them, and received the key to the city from Mayor George Hensley!
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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.
The Annual Banquet is January 27th at Sun N Lakes. We are soliciting Silent Auction Items for the evening event. Your item will be displayed prominently for all to see throughout the evening. Plus, your items will have a ball because it's a fun event! Last year items included: a money tree, gourmet cooking lessons, dinner packages, gift baskets, race tickets, hotel packages, jewelry, office furniture, luggage, hand bag, advertising and much more! Also, don't forget to sign up for the table decorating contest, it is always an amazing spectacle! Last year w e had 29 participants in the table decorating, and are hoping to see 35 participants this year! And, like last year, there is no theme because we want you to use your imagination and promote your own businesses!! The cost is $100 and tables are limited to the first 35. It's a great way to get your name out in front of over 250 people. Call the Chamber and let us know!! 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. Greg needs help doing mock job interviews with high school students for their Junior Achievement Project. The Chamber is a partner with Junior Achievement and we try to help whenever we can. Having done a couple of these interview sessions, I can tell you that it is a rewarding experience to see these young people as they prepare for the next stage of their lives. It doesn't take long, you'll have a resume, cover sheet and a list of questions to guide you! I need eight additional interviewers, so please let me know if you can participate in the process on January 7th! Thanks, Greg Stewart Construction is offering a New Year's special for those wishing to remodel or in need of handyman services. Click here! for more information. Heartland Horses & Handicapped is having their Annual Fundraiser. Please Click here! to see more on this great cause. Alan Jay Kia Invites area charities to "Rock In" 2011! Starting at 10am on Monday, January 3rd, representatives & volunteers from a half-dozen local charities will compete in a 5-day rocking chair "endurance" challenge. Click here! for more details.
Stop Smoking for the New Year! Free Smoking Cessation classes are available. Click here! for more details.
Kegel Bowling Center now accepting applications for part-time staff. Positions include: Snack Bar Attendant, Birthday Party Attendant, and Front Desk Clerk. Kegel Bowling Center is looking for friendly staff members with good work ethics, good customer service qualities, that are reliable and punctual Plus a willingness to work in a place where people come to have fun. Multiple shifts available: days, nights and weekends. Please come in to the center at 6800 US Hwy 27 N, Sebring, FL 33870 to fill out an application. Now is the time to pre-order your 2011 Mr. Habitat Calendar. Featuring 12 individuals from local organizational supporters including Florida Hospital Heartland, Wells Fargo Advisors, and our very own Sebring Chamber of Harris. Wow, see Greg in the calendar! Click here for an order form.
The Florida Park Service is receiving proposals until 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday, January 21, 2011, for the award of a Single -Year Concession Agreement for the operation of a concession within Highlands Hammock State Park, located at 5931 Hammock Rd Sebring , FL 33872 . A mandatory on-site meeting to present the business plan packet and answer questions will be held on Wednesday, January 5, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. EST at Highlands Hammock State Park. Applicants may obtain additional information or a proposal packet by contacting the park at 863-386-6099. To discover more information about the park go to the link below. http://www.floridastateparks.org/highlandshammock The American Red Cross Announces it 2011 Schedule for Health and Safety Courses. Click here!The American Legion Post 74 of Sebring Golf Tournament will be held on January 15th at Highlands Ridge North. Click here! for details.
Ever Thought About Starting Your Own Business? Have a Downtown Sebring Business You'd Like to Improve? Plan to Attend the Destination Centennial: Downtown Sebring Business Opportunity Seminar Tuesday, February 1, 2011, 5:00-9:00 PM at the Kenilworth Lodge. The seminar will be conducted by Casey Wohl. Click here! for more details. Taylor Rental Center is offering Chamber members special discounts. Click here for details. MidFlorida Credit Union is hosting the "Run your Heart Out" 5K run at Highlands Hammock State Park. The run will benefit Junior Achievement. Click here for 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!
Aglow International of Sebring at 202 Stanley Ave, Frostproof, FL 33843. Phone: 863.635.5830. Contact: Helen Bingenheimer, President We are an outreach ministry which holds monthly meetings to encourage others in their walk with God. We also do outreach ministry into the community such as "Back to School Bash". Deloris G. Fennell Bookkeeping Services at 4508 Hester Avenue Sebring, FL 33875. Phone: 863.471.2354. Contact: Deloris G. Fennell Corporation Bookkeeping & Financials, Payroll- W2's, P/R Reports ; 1099's Farm Bureau Insurance at 6419 US27 S, Sebring, FL33876. Phone: 863.385.5141. Contact: ChadMcWaters, Agency Manager Insurance Agency First Data at 4101 Grass Avenue, Sebring, FL. Phone: 863-414-5220. Contact: Andy Rodriguez SunTrust and First Data have come together to bring you a great rate for credit card processing. This means a low price structure for you, more payment options for your customers and complete business solutions and robust products and services that help build your business. First Data Credit Card Processing is a Merchant Credit Card Service for all leading credit and debit cards. Our company is fast, highly reliable, and secure. We supply single monthly statements and 24/7 support. Lower your costs; build business with our payment processing agreement. For all the benefits of this new service, call Andy Rodriguez @ (863)414- 5220. Highlands County Concert Band, Inc. at 240 Buttonwood Drive, Sebring, FL 33875. Phone: 515.490.4332. Contact: Victor Anderson, Band Director
Community Band comprised of various age groups that host concerts throughout the year.
Seacoast National Bank at 199 US Hwy 27 N, Lake Placid, FL 33857. Phone: 863.465.4834. Contact: John Macchia
Commercial lending and business banking services.
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Calendar of Events
JANUARY 8 Saturday Nite Cruise - downtown (5-
8pm) Bud Whitlock 471.1900 12- 15 Flywheelers Park Antique Engine & Swap Meet 14 Downtown Gallery Walk (5-7pm) 20- 23 US Sport Aviation Expo - 655.6444 x 117 22 Big Brothers/Big Sisters Winterfest - Sebring Airport (10am-4pm) admission $5 FEBRUARY 5-6 Lake Placid County Fair - Devane Park 11 Gallery Walk (5-8pm) 12 Saturday Nite Cruise - Roaring 20's - Downtown Circle (5-8pm) 11- 12 Highlands County Quilt Show - Ag- Center - 471.1935 (9am-4pm) 11- 19 Highlands County Fair - 382.2255 23 Rotary Spaghetti Supper - Highlands County Fairgrounds 23- 26 Flywheelers 19th Annual Antique Engine & Tractor Show MARCH 2-6 Pioneer Park Days - Zolfo Springs - 863.735.0330 3 Circle of Speed - Downtown Circle (time tba) 11 Gallery & Downtown Walk (5-8pm) 12 Saturday Nite Cruise - Bud Whitlock - 471.1900 13 Ride the Racetrack - 385.8448 (time tba) 3- 14 Strawberry Festival - Plant City, FL 15 Taste of the Race - Downtown Circle (time tba) 16- 19 Twelve Hours of Sebring -
1.800.635.RACE 25- 26 Springtime on the Mall - Avon Park - 453.3350 26- 27 Orchid Society Show - Ag-Center - 465.2830
For up-to-the-minute, real-time information about upcoming events; or to submit an event, please Click here!
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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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Annual Golf Tournament Supports Hansen Center
For the second year in a row, the community of Sebring showed their support for the teen's finding safe haven at Hansen Center ...and got to enjoy a beautiful day hitting the links. The 2nd Annual Hansen Center Golf Tournament, held at Sun n' Lake Golf Club, was a huge success in raising funds and awareness to support Hansen Center, located in Sebring, FL. The tournament committee more than doubled it's participation this year, having to split the tournament into three flights. The winners of the first flight were Derek Melvin, Terry Little, Mike Lamere and Gibron Fenrello, who combined to shoot a 58 in the four-person scramble. It came down to the wire in the second flight, but the team of James Goins, Jimmy Goins, Mike Traegde and Ken Danielson came out on top with a score of 67. The third flight was won by the team of Mike Huffman, Jason Pewitt, Lawrence Hunt and Maria Weber, who combined to shot a 69. We would like to recognize our tournament chair, Summer Rose Tucker, for her continued support and advocacy on behalf of our teen girls. We would also like to thank our major sponsors, Alan Jay Automotive Network, Budweiser, Fast Lane Promotions, Cohan Radio Group, Homegrown Magazine, Heartland for Children and Sebring High School Student Government Association. Without their generosity, this event would never be possible. Over the past 2 years this event has raised more than $11,600 for the Hansen Center . This program of the Children's Home Society of Florida provides 24-hour awake care for teenage girls who have been removed from their homes, providing them with a safe place to live, caring adult relationships and activities for healthy development. These teens come from some of the unhealthiest living situations in our community, arriving with unbearable hurt and confusion resulting from unimaginable traumas they have survived. Our goal is to heal their wounded bodies and hearts by offering them a consistent, nurturing environment. Created in 1902, Children's Home Society of Florida (CHS) is the oldest and largest statewide private not-for-profit provider of services to children and families in Florida . The Gulf Coast Division serves more than 5,600 children and families in the Tampa Bay and Tri-County areas each year through a full spectrum of prevention and intervention programs. Services include foster care, adoption, child development, emergency shelters, residential group homes, independent and transitional living for teens, parent education, counseling, mentoring, treatment for developmentally disabled children, and more. CHS, which serves close to 100,000 children and family members annually, is headquartered in Winter Park , Fla. , and offers services in more than 100 locations by more than 1,500 staff members dedicated to providing child-focused, family-centered care.
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Merchants Beware
(Chamber Members, we just received this message from the Lake Placid Chamber. Please be careful when accepting cash from your customers.) The Lake Placid Police Department is investigating several cases of counterfeit money being passed through Lake Placid businesses.
Merchants are asked to examine cash thoroughly. If a merchant receives a counterfeit bill, contact law enforcement immediately. If possible seize the counterfeit bill and turn it over to law enforcement. Anyone with information into the investigation of the counterfeit money is asked to contact the Lake Placid Police Department at (863) 699-3758.
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Public Service Message from the Sheriff
Here we are once again with a fresh new year to embrace!
It's the time most people re-evaluate goals, systems, procedures, and make plans for change where necessary.
When you are taking stock of these things please include the following areas: First, what personal information do you really need to collect from your clients? Is there any way to keep from taking Social Security or Driver's License Numbers? Do you keep credit card information on file? If your business uses this personal information, are your procedures secure so that this information is safe? Do you have the most updated firewall or security systems on your computer lines so that the storage of this information will not be breached?
Over the past year we have seen several instances where customer's personal information has been hacked and used fraudulently. Please take preventative measures when dealing with Social Security, Driver's License and credit card numbers and be sure they are securely stored or deleted as soon as possible.
Second, do you have the serial and model numbers of all your personal property written down and stored in a readily accessible place? In the event of a burglary we would need this information to accurately report and possibly find stolen items. Looking for this information now and making it a habit to record these numbers on all new equipment will be invaluable if you suffer a loss.
Finally please take a moment and do a quick walk around of your business. Outside, are there items lying around that could offer access to your building after hours such as large rocks, ladders, tools? What about shrubbery - has it become taller than three feet high thus enabling someone to hide there? Have trees grown lower than 6 feet from the ground and now block the view of your business from the street? What about lighting? Are your customers able to see well enough to get to their vehicles safely after dark?
If you would like assistance in evaluating the security of your workplace, please contact Crime Prevention Specialist Nell Hays and request a Business Security Survey.
This is a free service provided by the Highlands County Sheriff's Office and the results are confidential. You can contact Nell at 385-0024. Thank you, and best wishes for a happy and prosperous new year!
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