Orlando, Inc. Headlines

The Art of Networking

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Annetta Wilson delivered an amazing program to a sold out crowd at last week's Business Success Strategies on The Art of Networking – Learn How to "Work a Room" so it "Works for You." First asking audience members to point out some of the challenges faced when walking into a room full of strangers, she moved on to her arsenal of networking tips arming the crowd with what she refers to as "Party Survival" techniques for social engagements at business functions, holiday gatherings, and more.

After pointing out that research shows that 55% of how we communicate is non-verbal, Annetta made some very interesting suggestions on wearing certain clothing or accessories that would serve as "Conversation Starters." She recommended that men wear an interesting tie or softer pastel colored shirts with their suits rather than the standard blue or white shirts to appear more inviting; and that women choose an interesting necklace or pair of shoes to draw attention and complements, which can serve as the "ice-breakers" and lead to conversation.

Of course, the importance of body language could not be overlooked. Ms. Wilson warned audience members to avoid standing or sitting with folded arms or hands as this is a non-verbal way of being uninviting to others in the room. While employing all of these tips to attract attention, attendees were also taught to look for these opportunities in order to start conversations with others.

Some key points that Wilson touched on were to "be different and memorable" and to never ask the "boring" question, "What do you do?" She pointed out that this question has the potential to create an awkward moment in instances where someone may have lost a job or may not have what they believe to be an impressive answer. Instead of leading the conversation with a "boring" or potentially awkward question, focus more on the "Conversation Starters" that allow the other person to talk about things that are comfortable for him or her.

There was so much useful information shared that many were scrambling to jot it all down in their i-Pads and note cards. Having anticipated this, Ms. Wilson prepared (what she referred to as) Cliff Notes of her presentation for everyone who attended.

This Business Success Strategies program was extremely helpful in teaching how to build strong relationships that will certainly boost your career, accelerate your business growth and ultimately increase your bottom line. The art of "face-to-face" networking is more important than ever; and Ms. Wilson did a phenomenal job teaching participants how to get the most from business gatherings by mastering The Art of Networking; learning how to "mix-and-mingle," accurately read body language and be memorable when meeting others.

For more information on Annetta Wilson, visit http://speakwithease.com/.

Questions, comments or suggestions regarding the Orlando, Inc., Business Success Strategies series should be directed to Vilma Quintana at vilma.quintana@orlando.org.

Randall Made Knives

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400

In 1965, the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce presented its highest recognition to Astronaut John Young for shining the national and international spotlight on his home town. In the years since, the John Young Spotlight Award has been presented to numerous individuals and organizationswho have distinguished themselves in much the same way.

Above: Central Florida Partnership CFO Scott Fagan presents a Randall Knife to Orlando, Inc. Chairman Waymon Armstrong.

As we celebrate the Chamber's 100^th Anniversary, we remembered one such award winner at the Board of Directors Meeting of Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce). In 1992, W. D. "Bo" Randall, Jr., the founder ofRandall Made Knives, was recognized with the John Young Spotlight Award. In honor of that recognition and in celebration of 100 Years of Service to our community, a custom Randall Knife was accepted on behalf of the Chamber by 2012-13 Chairman Waymon Armstrong.

Following are some interesting facts on the history of Randall Made Knives:

Founded by "Bo" Randall, 1992 John Young Award Recipient

He founded the company in 1938 after making knives for several years as a hobby. He made his first knife in his garage at Lake Ivanhoe, Florida using an auto spring

War heroes and GIs on all fronts carried Randall Knives with them into major battles, including:

Lieutenant General James M. Gavin, commander of the 82nd Airborne Division during the Normandy invasion.

Army Air Force Captain Ronald Reagan, future U.S. President, owned a Randall Knife in WWII.

In the Vietnam War, General William Westmoreland, Commander of American military operations in Vietnam, was often photographed with a Randall.

Pilot Gary Powers of the 1960 U-2 incident.

Randall's were so popular that GIs from overseas ordered them through the mail simply addressing letters to the "Knife Man, Orlando" and the Postmaster knew to deliver them to Mr. Randall.

As the U.S. initiated its space program, NASA needed a survival knife for its astronauts, and Major Gordon Cooper worked with Randall on the design of the Model 17 "Astro." These first astronauts carried their Randalls into space.

After recovering the Liberty Bell 7 Mercury space capsule from the ocean in 1999, astronaut Gus Grissom's Randall knife was found inside. Despite having spent 40 years at an underwater depth of 15,000 feet (4,600 m), the knife was still serviceable after a good cleaning. Due to the historical significance of the "Astro," the Smithsonian Institution displays two at their museum.

Bo's son and current owner of Randall Made Knives said he also made a knife for the Orlando Museum of Art.

Country music songs have been written about Randall Made Knives.

And now, the 100^th Anniversary of Orlando, Inc., has been recognized with a Randall Made Knife.

In Their Own Words

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 13 May 2013 10:00:00 -0400

Everyone has an opinion. That's why we asked the Past Chairs of Orlando, Inc., for their perspectives on the once-in-a-lifetime, 100^th Anniversary Celebration that the Orlando Chamber honors over the next year.

Already we have heard from ten Past Chairs; their service to our organization spanning the past two decades. You can tell that their connection and their commitment to our important work have not wavered since they led the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce.

We will continue to add to this impressive list of community leaders that are now showcased on our 100^th Anniversary website, as they share their experiences and their congratulations on this historic commemoration.

"First of all, I am honored and humbled to be a Past Chair of this truly remarkable organization. This 100 year achievement is so special for our community when you consider the leaders the Chamber has produced as well as the incredible list of accomplishments. The Orlando that we all know and love wouldn't be what it is today without the Chamber." Ed Timberlake (1999) Seaside National Bank & Trust

"Congratulations to Orlando, Inc. and the Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce for 100 years of community building. This legacy of leadership is evident in the strength and vitality of The City Beautiful and the region which surrounds it. I am proud to have been a part of this organization since I first moved to Orlando in 1987. It is hard to imagine what future community leaders will be saying at the 200th Anniversary celebration, but with the foundation that has been built during the first 100 years it will surely be impressive!" Frederick Leonhardt (1992) GrayRobinson, P.A.

"For 100 years, this volunteer-led, community-minded organization has impacted virtually every significant event in Central Florida history. The organization remains as strong as ever. Congratulations!" Eddie Carpenter (1994)

"Serving as Chair during 2005 was an honor and an experience I'm so very proud of. The Chamber was prominently engaged in many transformative efforts that will continue to positively shape Central Florida for years to come. These included supporting UCF with its effort to secure a medical school and aiding the civic and business community with realizing its aspirations for three new community venues (Project Hometown). I continue to cherish these memories and the impact we made!" Craig E. Polejes (2005) Junior Achievement of Central Florida, Inc.

"Having the honor and the privilege of being a part of such an outstanding organization as Orlando Inc. on its 100 year anniversary and having a small role to play in helping to guide the ship during that time will be one of the high points of my life. There is no doubt that the gifted and passionate professionals and volunteers that are Orlando, Inc. have made a significant impact on the destiny of such a great community that is Central Florida." Kelley P. Mossburg (2007) Main Street Advisory, LLC

"In the past 100 years, the Chamber has contributed more to the positive growth and development of the greater Orlando community than any other organization. It has helped shepherd Orlando from a sleepy citrus town to the vibrant community it is today. I can only imagine what it will assist in accomplishing in the next 100 years." William B. Wilson (2003) Holland & Knight

"This 100 year anniversary celebration is important because it requires each of us to recall the highlights of the many dramatic changes in the path of progress for our community, over the relative short period of time of a hundred years. By looking back, we see how remarkable our journey has been, blessed by great leadership, positive attitudes, and progressive thinking. Thankfully, our Chamber, and its membership were major players in each positive step of the way." Jack Prevost (1995) Old Florida National Bank

"The story of our great nation is built on the stories of its people. And, the stories of its people are created in those cities, towns and communities which we call home. For Orlando, the Chamber has been a creator, developer and keeper of so many of our stories during its 100 year history. The stories of a great nation." James S. Hunt (2000)

"As the 100th year celebration of the Orlando Chamber gets underway, it has been a labor of love for many to uncover the history of the organization. It's fascinating to note that in almost every major decision or event that has occurred in our community over the past 100 years, the Chamber has been at the table. While our name has changed numerous times and our mission has evolved over the years, our underlying values stay the same. Our goal is to make tomorrow better for our Central Florida Community. The only thing better than celebrating the past, is to be excited about how the Central Florida Partnership and it's lines of business will be active participants going forward. Happy Anniversary Orlando, Inc.!" Patricia Engfer (2009) Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport

"The recipe for any major city or region hoping to achieve success for its citizens must include certain key ingredients; outstanding corporate success & sponsorship, great educational systems, diversity and committed inclusive community leaders. Orlando Inc., in all of its titles has brought together, for 100 years, all of the necessary ingredients to develop Central Florida into a remarkable community. It has been an honor to participate in the process. " Lonnie C. Bell, Jr. (2002) Orange County Government

Orlando, Inc.

Orlando, Inc., is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A "Five-Star Chamber" – the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic, Business Connection and Business Executive. Log on to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

Working together with BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership), the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Gorovitz Appointed to Meritas Board

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 13 May 2013 10:00:00 -0400

Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A. announced that Central Florida Partnership Board Member Aaron J. Gorovitz, a long-time real estate partner with the firm, has been appointed to the board of directors of Meritas, a global alliance of 7,124 experienced lawyers in 175 full-service law firms serving 236 markets-all rigorously qualified, independent and collaborative.

Gorovitz has been involved with Meritas for several years. He is one of seven elected board members who will serve for a three-year term. Most recently, he served as the co-chair of the Meritas U.S. Real Estate Group and the chair of the North America Real Estate Meeting, which was held in Chicago this past October and which received national recognition.

For more than 25 years, Gorovitz’s legal practice has centered on large and complex commercial, residential and mixed use real estate projects throughout Central Florida. He is often involved in site selection and due diligence and is lead counsel in the procurement of Developments of Regional Impact (DRIs), comprehensive plan designations, zonings and other governmental approvals and entitlements. He also formulates public/private partnerships on master plans, and takes a lead role in the development, financing and leasing of projects.

A community leader, he also serves as the Chair of the Central Florida Partnership (CFP), which is influencing growth in the Central Florida community. Gorovitz is also involved with many other organizations, including the Orange County School Board Business Advisory Group, the Community Foundation of Central Florida, the Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando and the Jewish National Fund. In addition, he serves as the co-chair of Meritas’ Real Estate Group and is a member of the Meritas Member Relations and Marketing Board Committee. Recently, Gorovitz was honored with the “Most Influential Businessmen” in Central Florida award by the Orlando Business Journal and the “Father of the Year” award presented by the American Diabetes Association.

The firm also announced that Gorovitz has been featured as one of the Orange County leaders in Central Florida by Florida Trend magazine, May 2013 issue. Gorovitz has spent countless hours working side-by-side with community leaders and was instrumental in bringing SunRail to Central Florida. This March, he traveled with other regional leaders to Washington, D.C. to help advance the regional needs including: hospitality, travel and tourism, research funding and entrepreneurship. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Foundation of Central Florida. To view Florida Trend’s list of Orange County leaders, go to: http://bit.ly/120tzRq

Founded in Orlando, in 1969, Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A ., is a multi-practice law firm with over 100 attorneys. We represent clients across a myriad of industries locally, nationally and beyond our borders, advising on almost every aspect of business: from high-stakes, high-profile litigation to labor and employment law; from tax issues to trademark and patent protection; from bankruptcy and creditors’ rights to wealth management; from complex commercial and residential real estate issues to healthcare; from capital raising and entity formation to corporate growth and expansion. www.lowndes-law.com

Legislature Kills Mandated Sick Leave

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Waiting until the 59^th day of its 60 day session, the Florida Legislature finally delivered the predicted and what some termed the "kill shot" to mandated paid sick leave. This priority legislation, which was strongly supported by the Central Florida Partnership along with a broad coalition of key Florida business interests, was sponsored by House Majority Leader Rep. Steve Precourt (R-Orlando) and Senator David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs) and will preempt local governments from enacting paid sick leave mandates. All Republican members of the Central Florida Legislative Delegation supported the preemption legislation which was opposed by all Democratic delegation members. The bill is now on Gov. Scott's desk for signature and, upon becoming law, it will effectively nullify the Orange County referendum on paid sick leave slated for the August 2014 primary election.

"The leadership of Rep. Precourt and Senator Simmons is to be commended for steering this necessary and important measure through the legislature on behalf of Florida's business community. Without passage of preemption legislation businesses throughout our state would have potentially faced a hodgepodge of conflicting and costly paid sick leave mandates largely advocated by activists funded by out of state special interests that would place them at a competitive disadvantage," said Central Florida Partnership Vice President for Public Policy Mike Ketchum.

In addition to the paid sick leave mandate win and the long sought elimination of the sales tax on manufacturing equipment, the influential Florida Chamber again this session scored some huge wins for the business community with more than 25 bills on its 2013 Business Agenda passing the legislature. Included among these were two important bills spearheaded by two members of the Central Florida Legislative Delegation – Sen. Alan Hays (R-Umatilla) and Rep. Larry Metz (R-Groveland). The Hays legislation will close a costly loophole in the workmen's compensation law while Rep. Metz successfully worked to bring greater predictability to the civil justice system by greatly improving Florida's expert witness standard.

Legislative sessions always contain disappointments for some and for the region there were some major session disappointments. Topping the list was the failure of legislation to provide tax subsidies benefitting certain sports venues throughout Florida, including the Daytona International Speedway and the planned future soccer stadium in Downtown Orlando. The latter was heavily lobbied by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer but to no avail as the controversial "venues package" succumbed in the final minutes of the session over the opposition of House Speaker Will Weatherford (R-Wesley Chapel) and what appeared to be a growing legislative aversion to the granting of lucrative economic development subsidies.

Also failing due to opposition of some local governments and House leaders was the attempt sponsored by Senators David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs) and Andy Gardiner (R-Orlando) to supplant the Orlando-Orange County Expressway authority with the creation of a Central Florida Expressway Authority that would overlay Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties. Irreconcilable differences over composition of the new authority's board coupled with serious concerns over the apportionment of toll revenues among the affected counties led to the demise of the proposal this year.

Click here to learn about the Central Florida Legislative Delegation.

Michael L. Ketchum
Vice President, Public Policy
Central Florida Partnership
Vice President, Advocacy
Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce)
mike.ketchum@orlando.org
(407) 835-2464

America?s Small Business Summit

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Representing Orlando, Inc., at America's Small Business Summit, presented by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D. C. last week, were Michael Ketchum, Vice President of Advocacy, and Vilma Quintana, Executive Vice President. With the theme, "Small Business, Big Impact," close to 700 hundred entrepreneurs, business executives, and service providers gathered to learn, network, and discuss common legislative and management concerns affecting small businesses today.

Marketing experts provided tips for using the web as an effective marketing tool, and persuasive strategies to increase sales and boost profits. Breakout sessions covered topics ranging from the importance of advocacy and how to build an effective board of directors to advice on navigating the 2014 Health Care Reform.

Steve Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Magazine and Bob Woodward, investigative journalist and best-selling author, provided behind-the-scenes insights of our political environment. Dr. Marty Regalia, senior vice president and chief economist of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, provided an economic update. General Michael Hayden, former director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), shared some of the lessons learned while leading during times of crisis.


Top left: Moore Hallmark, Southeast Regional Director at U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Vilma Qunitana; and Mike Ketchum. Top right: Dr. Marty Regalia, Senior VP and Chief Economist, US Chamber; and Vilma Quintana. Dr. Regalia will appear at an Orlando, Inc., meeting in August.

Margaret Spellings, senior adviser, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, moderated a Panel of Governors on "How to Lead Enterprising States" featuring The Honorable Tom Corbett, Governor of Pennsylvania; The Honorable Paul LePage, Governor of Maine; and The Honorable Scott Walker, Governor of Wisconsin. During this interactive session, the governors highlighted successful programs and policies outlined in the 2013 Enterprising States study. This study measures and ranks states in terms of policies deployed to support small business in five areas: exports, business climate, innovation and entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and their talent pipeline. For more information on the 2013 Enterprising States study, click here.


Top left: Jim Koch, Founder and Chairman, The Boston Beer Company. Top right: Bob Woodard, Investigative Journalist and Best-Selling Author.

In his remarks, U.S. Chamber President, Tom Donohue, summed it up by saying, "The Small Business Summit is an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of people who have brought great innovation and success to the small business area, while letting Washington know exactly what's happening in the small business community."


Top left: Orlando, Inc. Vice President for Advocacy Mike Ketchum meets and visits with Gov. Scott Walker (R-Wisconsin) during U. S. Chamber's Small Business Summit in Washington, D C. Top right: Tom Donohue, President, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than three million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers, and industry associations. For more information about the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, visit www.uschamber.com.

Staff Retreat

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Like in your businesses, every once in a while our team needs a 'change of scenery' to better reflect and focus on the important work ahead. A recent outing to Wycliffe Bible Translators, Inc., was hosted by Thomas Schneider, Wycliffe's Director - Community & Government Relations/Special Counsel and a member of the Board of Directors of Orlando, Inc.

In addition, the staff of the Central Florida Partnership and its four Lines of Business participated in a VIP Tour of the Wycliffe Discovery Center which chronicles the impact Wycliffe has made since it was established in 1942.

The organization chose to relocate its headquarters to Central Florida from Huntington Beach California (moving from Orange County CA to Orange County FL) in 1999.

We extend our very special thanks to Bob Creson, President of Wycliffe, Mr. Schneider and their entire team for being such hospitable hosts during our visit.

With 500-600 employees in the U.S. and 6,000 around the world, Wycliffe has translated the Bible's New Testament into thousands of languages and dialects. There are 6,900 languages in the world, and Wycliffe projects that it will complete the last 1,970 languages by the year 2025. A child in kindergarten today may be just the one to translate the Bible into the final language.

As an example of their work, kiosks in the Discovery Center allow you to translate your name into Ancient languages like Aramaic, Greek, Hebrew and Hieroglyphics, Modern tongues like Cyrillic and Arabic, and even Fantasy languages like Klingon, Cirth, and Atlantean. Mr. Schneider provided translations for the words, Central Florida Partnership, Leadership Orlando, BusinessForce, myregion.org and Orlando, Inc.

Central Florida Partnership - Ideas to Results
The Central Florida Partnership is a collaborative of business and civic leaders committed to procuring a better tomorrow for Central Florida's seven counties - Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia. We are thoughtful leaders united by a single, guiding principle - that we have both the power and the responsibility to make change happen.

Working together, through four lines of business – Orlando, Inc. (Regional Entrepreneurship), BusinessForce (Regional Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership) – the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

About the Central Florida Partnership
Click here to learn more about the Central Florida Partnership.
Click here for the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors.

Community Connections Continue

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 06 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Building relationships was an important component in the Leadership Orlando experience for Class 84. From social holiday gatherings to a recent outing at Splittsville in Downtown Disney, the class continues to get together on a regular basis. Graduates are looking forward to another opportunity to stay in touch, remain active and "giveback" to our community.

The next class outing is May 11, 2013, at the Operation Giveback walk/roll/run event on the campus of the University of Central Florida. Operation Giveback is designed to support our Wounded Warriors. "Whether you are an avid runner (15K for you), a weekend stroller (5k all the way), or somewhere in between (10K is available too), the Operation Giveback event provides an opportunity (excuse!) to get together as a class while raising money for a great cause," says class member Diana C. Teel.

Operation Giveback (OGB) is committed to helping the men and women of the U.S. military who have been wounded in action, recognizing they have served our country with pride, distinction, honor, and in some cases paid the ultimate price. Donations raised at this event will benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.

Leadership Orlando Class 84 has created a Class Team, Eight 4 Heroes - Leadership Class 84. (Thanks Todd Andrus, LEGOLAND Florida, for the great name!) If interested, sign up at the link below, dust off those running shoes and join the Eight 4 Heroes! Or, show your support by sponsoring with a 'General Race Team Donation' or one or more of the individual Class 84 Heroes.

Eight 4 Heroes - Leadership Class 84 – Operation Giveback

If you've been looking for the 'right' time to participate in Leadership Orlando, or if know someone who should be in the room for these discussions, now is indeed the perfect time to be a part of America's largest Community Leadership program, Leadership Orlando. Preparing for the future of our region is up to each of us. Take time to learn about the issues and participate in the community conversations that are helping to guide our future.

Class 86 begins in September 2013, with William G. Oakley, President/CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, Inc., serving as Class Chair. The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed at www.LeadershipOrlando.org. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.Panter@ideastoresults.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Developing regional leaders is important to the future success of the Central Florida Region. That is why "Regional Leadership" is a primary line of business for the Central Florida Partnership. With over thirty years of proven success, Leadership Orlando, America's largest "Community Leadership Program," continues to recruit, cultivate and encourage emerging leaders to better serve the Central Florida Region.

Working together with Orlando, Inc., (Regional Entrepreneurship), BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), and myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves), the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

City Proclaims Orlando Inc. Day

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

The Council Chambers at the City of Orlando was packed with well wishers on Monday as Mayor Buddy Dyer proclaimed April 22, 2013, as "Orlando Inc. Day" in honor of the Chamber's 100^th Anniversary. Joining in the festivities were ten Past Chairs of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce, spanning four decades, and well as current Directors, Investors, Members and Staff.

Click here to read the proclamation.

In reading the Proclamation, Mayor Dyer recognized the Chamber's important role in our community since it was established in 1913 as the Orlando Board of Trade. Stating that nearly every milestone in our community's history has involved the organization, he specifically cited the formation of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission and Visit Orlando, as well as United Arts of Central Florida and the Orange County COMPACT.

It has advanced such successful programs as Leadership Orlando, myregion.org, and How Shall We Grow? It led the sale of 10,000 preseason ticket sales that brought the NBA's Orlando Magic to town. And, it has been an advocate for community initiatives such as Project Hometown in support of the Community Venues, SunRail, and the Central Florida Partnership.

With a "Five Star" Accreditation from the U. S. Chamber of Commerce, the first chamber of commerce in Florida to achieve this very special distinction, Orlando, Inc. begins "a year-long celebration to celebrate its rich history, decades of accomplishments and the tremendous legacy the organization has in our community."

Addressing Mayor Dyer and the members of the City Council, Past Chair Tico Perez, who also serves as Chairman of the 100^th Anniversary Celebration, thanked the City for this very special once-in-a-lifetime recognition. He acknowledged the role that the City has played in nurturing collaborative partnerships with the Chamber and throughout our community, all of which continue to make our region vibrant and strong.


	Click here to view more photos.

For more on the 100^th Anniversary activities, visit www.orlando.org/100.

Orlando, Inc.

Orlando, Inc., is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A “Five-Star Chamber” – the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Entrepreneurs Ecosystem

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

The "Community Luncheon" Acknowledging and Honoring Members of the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem was the first-ever gathering of the critical resources that comprise the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem in the Central Florida region. Leaders from such organizations as the City of Orlando, University of Central Florida, Rollins College, National Entrepreneur Center, Orange County Economic Development, United States Department of Commerce Export Assistance, Osceola County Economic Development, and many more spent time learning and sharing with each other and discussing the economic future of our community. To learn more about the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem, "click here," Entrepreneurs Ecosystem.

The meeting was facilitated by Jacob V. Stuart, President of the Central Florida Partnership, with the purpose of strengthening relationships among the nearly one hundred (100) members of the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem. Mr. Stuart emphasized the importance of all of its members working closely together to form a partnership that has the bottom line of enriching the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem, thereby furthering economic growth of the Central Florida region.

For more information on the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem or to learn how you can get involved, please contact Vilma Quintana, Executive Vice President of Orlando, Inc., at vilma.quintana@orlando.org.

Town of Ponce Inlet Now "Open for Business"

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Congratulations to the Town of Ponce Inlet in Volusia County on becoming "Open for Business" Certified! There are now 7 counties and 25 cities throughout Central Florida participating in this regional initiative to streamline the permitting process.

For a list of participating counties and cities who are "Open for Business" certified, visit www.openforbusinesscfl.com. The website also includes a convenient one-stop shop where local government standards for each participating county and city are at your fingertips, offering an agreement across the region on the minimum standards that are applied in each certified local government.

"Open for Business" was successfully advanced by the following Founding Partners: the

Associated Builders & Contractors, the Central Florida Partnership, the Home Builders Association of Metro Orlando, the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission, the Orlando Regional REALTOR Association, and Workforce Central Florida; with myregion.org serving as Project Director.

And So It Begins

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Twenty two Past Presidents (1976 – 2013) joined members of the current Volunteer Leadership Team at a very special luncheon on Friday to kick off the 100^th Anniversary of Orlando, Inc., (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce). Guests also included the Chairs, Chairs-Elect, and Past Chairs of the Central Florida Partnership and its four Lines of Business: Orlando, Inc., BusinessForce, Leadership Orlando, and myregion.org.

Robert N. Blackford (1980) gave a heartfelt invocation asking blessings on those Chamber leaders present, those not able to attend, and those with us 'in spirit' who have given so much to our organization and our community during the last century.

100^th Anniversary Chairman, Tico Perez (1997) expressed appreciation for the men and women who have taken on the mantle of leadership over the years, guiding our organization's impact on the community. "This organization," he said, "was instrumental in founding the Economic Development Commission, the Convention & Visitors Bureau (Visit Orlando), United Arts of Central Florida, the Community Foundation of Central Florida, and many others whose work over the years has made our region strong."

"This organization was instrumental in the recognition of Orlando as America's First City of Light by former President George W. Bush," Perez continued. "This organization has graduated over 3,000 business and community leaders from its Leadership Orlando program. This organization has advocated regional thought, regional transportation, regional connectivity, and regional cooperation."

"This organization has been a leader on issues of diversity, founding the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Business Expo. This organization has been an advocate for the African-American Chamber of Commerce, the Asian-American Chamber of Commerce and the Metro Orlando Urban League."



Click here to view more photos.

In the words of Ronald Reagan, Perez said, "There is no left or right, there is only up and down" and "This organization has always chosen up – when it advances such issues as the half-penny sales tax, SunRail, Orange County COMPACT, Vote No on Four, and Project Hometown, always choosing to move our community forward."

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer joined in this very special gathering as well, calling to mind the great collaboration that has taken place over the Chamber's long history between local government and the Chamber, representing the business community. "The Chamber is a great convener, bringing all stakeholders to the table. No organization has had a greater impact on our community. Without its efforts on the projects and issues mentioned previously, we would not have the success that we enjoy today."

The Mayor continued, "The City of Orlando intends to participate fully in this 100 year celebration, beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Monday afternoon at City Hall with the proclamation of Orlando, Inc. Day recognizing all of the contributions made to our community by the Chamber."

A decades-old Chamber video proclaiming Orlando as the Action Center of the U.S. was also presented.

In closing, Tico Perez encouraged three action points: Wear your 100 Year pins and help tell our story; participate on whatever level you can in the 100^th Anniversary Gala scheduled for September 21, 2013; and volunteer for our Speakers Bureau to help us spread the word about the important contributions to our history and to our future in Central Florida.

Legacy of Leadership

J. Blair Culpepper (1976)
Sherman S. Dantzler (1978)
Robert Blackford (1980)
Roland M. Lee (1981)
Thomas S. Heywood, Jr. (1986)
John O. Riggle (1989)
Frederick W. Leonhardt (1992)
R. Van Bogan (1993)
Jack G. Prevost (1995)
James B. Cross, CPA (1996)
Tico Perez, Esquire (1997)

Ed Timberlake (1999)
Ellen S. Titen (2001)
Lonnie Bell (2002)
William B. Wilson (2003)
Wayne C. Wolfson, D.C. (2004)
Craig E. Polejes (2005)
Des Cummings, Jr., Ph.D. (2008)
Patricia J. Engfer (2009)
Martin Rubin (2010-2011)
Waymon Armstrong (2012-2013)
Shari Sandifer, MBA, RN (2014-2015)

For more on the 100^th Anniversary activities, visit www.orlando.org/100.

Orlando, Inc.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic, Business Connection and Business Partner. Log on to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Past Presidents Share Perspective

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Nearly forty years ago, J. Blair Culpepper served in 1976 as the volunteer Chairman of the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce, now known as Orlando, Inc. He and ten other Past Chairs shared their personal and professional reflections on Wednesday with the Central Florida Young Professionals, most of whom weren't yet born when Culpepper served as Chair.

Roland M. Lee (1981), now 90 years old, received a rousing ovation for his service in 1981 and his continued support and active engagement over the years. Regional outreach brought Osceola County resident, Thomas S. Heyward, Jr. (1986) to the Orlando Chamber role who reminisced about the Chamber phone bank promoting season ticket sales that brought the Orlando Magic to town.


J. Blair Culpepper	Roland M. Lee	Tom Heyward

When Jack G. Prevost (1995) moved from North Carolina, Interstate 4 and Martin Marietta were new to our community. James B. Cross (1996) praised our community as a place where all you have to do is 'raise your hand' to get engaged. Proud to be the first African-American to serve in the role as Chairman (2002), Lonnie C. Bell credited the Leadership Orlando program with connecting him to the community. In the midst of our nation's response to 9/11, the Chamber advanced such initiatives as myregion.org and the half-cent sales tax to support our schools during his term.


Jack Prevost	James B. Cross	Lonnie C. Bell

2003 Chairman William B. Wilson provided two concepts and a challenge to the YPAC members: Servant Leadership and Community Involvement (civic rent) lead to Success. He quoted Ralph Waldo Emerson on Success. " To laugh often and love much; . . . to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived—this is to have succeeded ." (Click for complete quote.) His challenge: Be somebody and do good!

Project Hometown, the UCF Medical School and the Level One Trauma Center were priorities during Craig E. Polejes' term as Chair in 2005. He thanked Leadership Orlando and the Chamber for his involvement in the community at large. Patricia J. Engfer (2009), who served as both Chair of the Chamber and of the new Central Florida Partnership advised the young professionals to "show up" and then have the courage to lead.


Craig E. Polejes	William B. Wilson	Patricia J. Engfer

A serial entrepreneur, Martin Rubin (2010-2011) brought entrepreneurship to Orlando, Inc., with programs like The B.I.G. Summit and the Entrepreneurs Academy. He reiterated that newcomers can move to leadership positions quickly like he did in just six years. Chair-Elect Shari Sandifer (2014-2015) has built a company and a culture that embraces change. She encouraged the members of YPAC to really listen because that is the best way to learn.


Martin Rubin	Shari Sandifer	Michelle Chandler, Chair, YPAC

In summarizing, Central Florida Partnership President Jacob V. Stuart, and Michelle Chandler, SchenkelShultz Architecture and Chair of YPAC, thanked these gifted and gracious leaders for their service, all of whom have, in so many ways, paid their 'civic rent' and encouraged the Central Florida Young Professionals Advisory Council to do the same.



Click here to view more photos.

Central Florida Young Professionals Advisory Council

Our goal at the Central Florida Partnership is to provide our Volunteer Leadership Team with consistent and thoughtful input from a younger generation; one that will be asked to live with the "opportunities exercised" and the "challenges met" when it comes to our "collective future."

Listening carefully to the voices of young professionals, especially when it comes to key community issues, will help us better frame the public policy debate across the Central Florida Region. We remain committed to an issue-driven advisory body; one that does not circumvent existing groups and organizations of young professionals. In fact, our goal is to complement the many efforts that are already in place and currently underway.

?Crunch Time? In Tallahassee

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400

With only 12 days remaining in the 2013 legislative session, it's getting to be "crunch time" now in Tallahassee as legislators, lobbyists and state and local officials anxiously await the fate of their pet bills before the looming May 3rd adjournment date. Shortly, bills will begin to die in committees, on the calendars or in last minute messages between the House and Senate. We will also witness during these last days the "high season" for deal-making and horse-trading between the Senate and House as well as the governor.

As this process goes forward in these final days we'll soon have the answers to whether or how the legislature resolves a number of key issues in a number of important areas:

State budget – With some differences apparent between the House and Senate versions of the roughly $74 billion state budget –although the are not as wide-ranging as in recent years – budget negotiations commenced over the weekend and largely focus on the $26.9 billion that lawmakers actually control with the balance of the budget tightly tied to trust funds and federal monies they do not control. Any tough budget issues that cannot be reconciled by a House-Senate Conference Committee, if necessary, will eventually be "bumped up" to House Speaker Will Weatherford (R-Wesley Chapel) and Senate President Don Gaetz (R-Niceville) for decisions.

Medicaid expansion – One of the biggest unresolved and most complex and partisan issues this session is how to expand healthcare to the state's low income residents. The Senate has crafted two competing plans that would utilize federal subsidies and some state monies while the House has advanced a more "bare bones" plan that would use state funds only and cover less people. Already there is speculation Medicaid expansion may have to carry over to be addressed in a special session.

Pension reform – While a real appetite appears to exist in Tallahassee this year to reform the state pension system and protect Florida taxpayers from future liabilities, the House and Senate have different ideas on how to accomplish it with the House insistent on totally moving employees from a "defined benefit" program to a "defined contribution" one and the Senate moving in a direction allowing for alternative plan choices.

State employee and teacher pay raises – This is likely the year we will see pay raisesfor state employees and teachers but exactly who will get how much and how they will be structured remains in doubt. Differences between the governor and the House and Senate

will have to be ironed out in the budget negotiations that are unfolding this week.

Sales tax exemption for manufacturing machinery and equipment – In an effort to make Florida more competitive with other states, Gov. Rick Scott, joined by the business community, has made this legislation which has gained traction in both the House and Senate the centerpiece of his economic development legislative package.

Sports stadiums and venues – In a year when state economic incentives or subsidies for private businesses are getting increasing legislative scrutiny and decreased funding as well as getting caught up in some raw politics, the prospects for state tax dollars going to support certain sports stadiums and venues in Daytona Beach, Jacksonville, Miami and Orlando via several legislative measures that are in play remain in doubt during these final days. This is an area that could be where the action is for the end of session deal-making and horse-trading ahead.

Ethics and campaign finance reform – With a consensus on ethics reform seemingly reached in the House and Senate bills, the outcome remains in doubt on campaign finance reform. Differences remain between the houses on increased campaign contribution limits and the governor has weighed in with his strong opposition to contribution increases.

Paid Sick Leave – Two different versions of legislation preempting to the state the question of mandated paid sick leave and effectively nullifying an upcoming Orange County referendum in 2014 on the issue are moving in the legislature and the outlook on prospects for a meshing of the two bills, whose passage are a top priority of the Central Florida Partnership, still remains favorable.

Regional Expressway Authority – Strong support for creating a regional expressway authority in Central Florida has been seen in the Senate while the House, joined by some county officials in the region has been less receptive to the measure which is also a Central Florida Partnership regional priority. With the hour growing late in the session, this one may have to wait for another time and a greater regional consensus.

Click here to learn about the Central Florida Legislative Delegation.

Central Florida Education Summit

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Arts, Sports, Concerts & More

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Fresh off their 'field day' in March at the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium, the members of Leadership Orlando Class 85 gathered on Tuesday for an update on the remaining Community Venues that are part of Project Hometown: Amway Center and Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, as well as some new projects on the horizon.

Presentations by Katherine Ramsberger, President of the Dr. Phillips Center, and Allen Johnson, Executive Director of Orlando Venues, complimented the earlier update by Leadership Orlando Class Chair Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, bringing class members 'up to speed' on each of the Community Venues and their plans for the future, including funding challenges and the need for on-going community support for these projects. Phil Rawlins, President of Orlando City Soccer Club, provided perspective on the economic impact possibilities for this international sport in Central Florida, as well as the latest developments on the possible MLS franchise and site selection for a proposed soccer stadium.


Kathy Ramsberger	Allen Johnson

Phil Rawlins	Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer

With the downtown skyline as a backdrop, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer praised the efforts of business leaders and elected officials who are making the Community Venues a reality for Central Florida.

"The model for public-private partnerships that brought the Medical City to our region has been successfully employed in other areas like SunRail and the Community Venues," said Mayor Dyer. He also gave credit to the Central Florida Partnership and myregion.org for its leadership in developing a vision for regional sustainability and paving the way for our infrastructure vision.

Viewing the Amway Center from every angle, a tour of the state-of-the-art facility took participants to the OZONE, private loge/club seating, Jernigan's Restaurant which overlooks the bowl/performance space, and the newest Amway Center addition, the Magic Grill, open to the public before, during and after all games, concerts and ticketed events.

After a quick bus ride on the Downtown Lymmo (just how many class members can you pack into a LYNX bus?), Class 85 enjoyed lunch at the LYNX Central Station, as well as presentations by John M. Lewis, Jr., CEO of LYNX and Marc S. Reicher, Senior Vice President of Operations for RIDA Associates, LP, guiding the proposed Central Station complex adjacent to the Orange County Courthouse and LYNX downtown terminal.


John Lewis	Marc Reicher

With a new appreciation for state-of-the-art versus status quo, the Leadership Orlando participants then jumped back on the Lymmo to the construction site of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for a 'hard hat' tour. In the midst of construction cranes, rebar, and staging areas, they visualized how this massive structure on its nine-acre site will take its place in relation to the Downtown Orlando skyline.



Click here to view more photos.

If you have been looking for the "right" time to participate in Leadership Orlando, or know someone who should be in the room for these discussions, now is indeed the perfect time to be a part of America's largest Community Leadership program, Leadership Orlando. Preparing for the future of our region is up to each of us. Now is the time to learn about the issues, participate in the difficult conversations and help in guiding our future.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Budget, Medicaid Get Legislative Focus

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

As the 42nd day of the 60 day Florida legislative session dawns today, important action occurred last week on two of the major issues to come before the current session – the state budget and Medicaid. With respect to the budget, the Senate easily passed its $74.3 billion version by a bipartisan, unanimous vote while the House, in passing its $74.4 billion budget version, witnessed somewhat of a partisan divide with all but one Republican supporting the budget and almost one half of the Democratic caucus opposing it largely due to their disappointment over how the issue of Medicaid had been handled by the Republican majority and despite the fact the budget document contained top Democratic priorities of pay raises for teachers and state employees. This week's budget actions have now set the stage for House and Senate negotiations on a final spending plan for the state's next fiscal year with the differences largely over teacher and state employee pay raises and Medicaid.

In deciding how the state will eventually handle Medicaid now that Obamacare is the law of the land, there's still a long ways to go yet. With the Senate having previously rolled out two competing proposals, last week it was the House's turn to unveil their draft plan, called Florida Health Choices Plus, to use state, not federal dollars to obtain healthcare for nearly 116,000 low income Floridians.

The long stalled, controversial legislation to insure that taxes are collected on internet sales thus ending the competitive advantage online retailers enjoy over Florida's "brick and mortar" retailers received another favorable Senate committee vote last week and awaits further Senate committee action. The House has been less receptive to the internet sales tax and a similar House measure still faces further committee scrutiny. To attempt to keep the legislation revenue neutral, the Senate bill contains a lowering of the Communications Services Tax (CST). Another tax measure heavily promoted by Gov. Scott and the business community to improve Florida's ability to compete with other states, a sales tax exemption for industrial machinery and equipment purchases, continue to slowly move through the legislative process

On the education front, transformational legislation revamping the requirements for high school graduation by creating different designations for high school diplomas and making dramatic changes to the state university system by designating "a preeminent university" based on certain specified criteria now await the governor's signature. In other education activity, following House passage of the controversial "Parent Trigger" legislation granting parents more say in the fate of a failing school, attention last week turned to the Senate where a similar bill was heard in committee. Following testimony, the Senate bill was amended by Sen. David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs) to place final decisions on solution alternatives with local school boards rather than the State Board of Education.

More action was seen during the week on one of the Central Florida Partnership's priorities, mandated sick leave preemption, when the Senate Judiciary Committee approved on a 6-3 vote Sen. David Simmons' measure to preempt local governments from enacting sick leave ordinances. Members of the Central Florida Legislative Delegation serving on the committee supporting Simmons included Senators Andy Gardiner (R-Orlando) and John Thrasher (R-St. Augustine) while Sen. Darren Soto (D-Orlando) opposed the bill. The legislation now moves on to the Senate Appropriations Committee. A House preemption bill by House Majority Leader Rep. Steve Precourt (R-Orlando) also is awaiting Senate action.

Click here to learn about the Central Florida Legislative Delegation.

Business Partner Member Profile

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Periodically, Every Monday will feature members at the Business Partner level of Orlando, Inc. So that we can get to know them better and have access to the products and services that they provide, today we are featuring Wayne Elsey Enterprises.

Wayne Elsey has changed lives around the world. As the founder of Soles4Souls, Wayne helped put over 17 million pairs of shoes on the feet of those in need in response to some of the world's largest natural disasters. Providing footwear to more than 129 countries around the world, Soles4Souls reached the top 1% of nonprofits in the US under Wayne's tenure as CEO.

He has appeared on Good Morning America, Today Show, and NBC Nightly News, and also authored the powerful book, Almost Isn't Good Enough. Today, his company Wayne Elsey Enterprises offers consulting for other nonprofits looking to make the biggest impact possible and Wayne balances his consulting duties with speaking engagements, conferences, and seminars.

Through WEE, Wayne has also created 501(c)(3) University, a comprehensive online resource offering an education in all things nonprofit. His latest development Funds2Orgs sees a return to international outreach, this time as a unique fundraising platform for nonprofit organizations trying to gain financial sustainability while simultaneously providing micro-enterprise in developing countries.

A true visionary in every sense of the word, Wayne thinks global with each endeavor and usually manages to positively impact thousands in the process.

For more, contact:
Wayne Elsey
Head Coach
Wayne Elsey Enterprise
3401 Brookwater Circle
Orlando, FL 32822-3065
Phone: (407)440-8264
Email: wayne@wayneelsey.com

Orlando, Inc.
Orlando, Inc., is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A "Five-Star Chamber" – the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Log on to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Full House at MemberLink

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

It was a full house at the Organizational Meeting of MemberLink, held on Tuesday, April, 9, 2013, in the Chamber Boardroom. This new initiative of Orlando, Inc., is designed to be a highly visible, prestigious and committed group of 100 active members representing all business sectors, membership levels and stages of the business life cycle.

The meeting began with the president of the Central Florida Partnership, Jacob V. Stuart, welcoming the crowd; and Waymon Armstrong, Chair of the Board of Directors of Orlando, Inc. introducing his fellow board member, Mimi Hull, Ph.D. as the facilitator of MemberLink.

Hull outlined the guidelines of MemberLink and advised those in attendance "to look at this as an opportunity to improve our businesses, our link to the Chamber and our community." The membership guidelines include the following:

Must be a member of Orlando, Inc.
Attend at least 8 of 12 meetings a year.
One person per company may be a member of MemberLink.
Members may serve on MemberLink for no more than 24 months.
Each MemberLink member may invite one guest per month.

With such a great group of professionals from a wide assortment of industries congregated in one place, Hull seized the opportunity to gather feedback from them by assembling everyone into smaller groups to spend a few minutes talking about what would make an ideal MemberLink for them. One person from each group stood up to present the ideas of their group. This exercise was very engaging for all as many wonderful ideas were shared; including improving the ecosystem, networking with other industries, increased awareness about what's going on in the community, organizing more leads groups, and so much more.

The primary purpose of MemberLink is to "Link Members to Success" through monthly breakfast meetings, focused on the program of work of Orlando, Inc., and the "Lines of Business" of the Central Florida Partnership.

The next meeting of MemberLink will be held on May 14, 2013, in the Chamber of Commerce Building. If you are interested in joining MemberLink, please contact Kathy Panter at kathy.panter@ideastoresults.org or by phone at 407.835.2499. We assure you it will be an enjoyable and beneficial experience, providing you with new business contacts and tools to develop new business leadership skills.

Women Leaders Speak of Change

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

The Business Leadership Roundtable on New Women Leading Change in Central Florida had an incredible turnout. With standing room only, men and women of the community amassed the boardroom of the Chamber of Commerce Building to hear from a panel of four dynamic women who are leading change in Central Florida.

Vilma Quintana, Executive Vice President of Orlando, Inc., led the discussion with Diana Bolivar, President of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando; Flora Maria Garcia, President and CEO of United Arts of Central Florida, Inc; Karen Hagan, Regional CEO of the American Red Cross Mid-Florida Region; and Pamela Nabors, President and CEO of Workforce Central Florida extending to each woman the opportunity to share with the audience what their accomplishments have meant to them personally and professionally as they have continued overcome obstacles and roadblocks during their climb to the top.

These influential business leaders spoke in depth about the support and mentorship that they received starting as early as their childhood and at the onset of their careers. They were also just as open in sharing some of the pitfalls that they have faced and how they turned those experiences into learning moments to aid them in their continued pursuit of success.

Responding to questions from the audience, the four stressed the importance of finding a balance between family and career. Pamela Nabors pointed out, "I'm not wearing a red cape," as she explained how important it is to have a good support system. Karen Hagen, who graduated from Leadership Orlando Class 84 that same day, added, "Men and women alike need that strong support system to be effective leaders."

Some key take-away advice that the panel shared with the audience was to "be authentic" (Flora Maria Garcia) by staying true to who you are and your values; "drink the Kool-Aid" (Diana Bolivar) of your organization because it's important, for your individual success and that of the organization, for you to believe in what you're doing; seek mentors, and give back by mentoring and supporting others.

Attendees were buzzing about how pleased they were with the discussion, and walked away feeling inspired by this panel of four remarkable women leaders right here in Central Florida.

Legislative Session Reaches Midpoint

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

With the legislature back in the state capital after its Easter and Passover holiday breaks, the mid point of the 2013 legislative session has been reached but with many big issues still unresolved. The midpoint is oftentimes compared to an 18 hole round of golf, when it is said legislators "have made the turn and are now on the back nine" as they head toward their scheduled adjournment date of May 3^rd.

This week saw more action on two of the Central Florida Partnership's legislative priorities – government mandated sick leave preemption and the creation of a regional expressway authority. On Thursday the House of Represenatives passed on a strong 75-43 vote the preemption measure authored by House Majority Leader Rep. Steve Precourt (R-Orlando). Leader Precourt skillfully fended off on the House floor attacks on the legislation from Representatives Victor Torres, Joe Saunders and Linda Stewart, all Orlando Democrats. Precourt was ably assisted in floor debate by Representatives Mike LaRosa (R-Kissimmee), Tom Goodson (R-Titusville) and Jason Brodeur (R-Sanford) from the Central Florida Regional Legislative Delegation. The legislation will now move to the Senate for consideration there along with a similar Senate bill by Sen. David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs) which will receive its final Senate committee hearing on April 8^th. The proposed legislation creating a Central Florida Expressway Authority overlaying Lake, Orange, Osceola and Seminole Counties received its second favorable Senate committee hearing and moves on to its final Senate committee stop in the Appropriations Committee. A companion bill in the House by Rep. Bryan Nelson (R-Apopka) has not been set for a hearing amid indications further work needs to be done on the Senate bill to satisfy concerns that have been expressed from some of the affected counties.

Since the return of legislators to the capital, a cascade of legislation in a host of important areas from the Florida Chamber's " 2013 Business Agenda" has been reported out of House and Senate committees or seen favorable floor action. Among these are the "parent trigger" bill to decide the fate of failing schools, a shutdown of Internet cafes, and tort reform measures in the areas of medical liability and expert witness testimony designed to further improve Florida's civil justice system. Progress has also been seen in overhauling the state employee pension fund, a top priority of the legislative leadership and the business community to protect Florida taxpayers from future pension liabilities.

Clearly, the two biggest issues facing the legislature are crafting the state budget and finding an alternative to expanding Medicaid under Obamacare while still offering health services to low income people. Two proposals have surfaced in the Senate while the House continues to work on their proposal. With respect to the budget, the separate House and Senate versions with each totaling over $74 billion – the largest in Florida history – are being readied for floor action shortly. With the state's financial picture continuing to improve, we are seeing once again the insertion of "local projects" or as some have termed them – "turkeys" – in the budget.

Also awaiting to learn its fate is legislation determining whether sales taxes can be collected on purchases over the Internet thus ending a price advantage for internet retailers over Florida-based retailers. This issue has been percolating in the legislature for several years and has previously failed largely due to the perception by some legislators it was a tax increase. However, this may be the year for its passage as the legislative climate appears more favorable.

Click here to learn about the Central Florida Legislative Delegation.

Michael L. Ketchum
Vice President, Public Policy
Central Florida Partnership
Vice President, Advocacy
Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce)
mike.ketchum@
orlando.org
(407) 835-2464

Leadership Orlando Commencement

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Transforming the experiences of our Leadership Orlando participants during the last eight months into actionable community service was the goal for our final session. Last Thursday, the members of Class 84 marked the conclusion of their participation in Leadership Orlando, which began in September, and the commencement of their leadership service to the Central Florida Region.

A return to leadership skills training and a primer on volunteer board service was provided, in partnership with The Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership Center at Rollins College. By providing new skills, new resources, and new opportunities to connect and engage with regional needs, Class 84 graduates are better prepared to take their next step as community leaders.

Leadership Orlando alumnus, Craig M. McAllaster, Ed.D., Dean of the Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business, provided a morning welcome to the beautiful Winter Park campus, and spent 90 minutes with Class Members sharing his thoughts on leadership and provided Keys to Unlocking Productivity! He examined recent trends in leadership, generational issues and the motives approach displayed in the workplace, receiving high marks and resounding kudos from class members.

For only the second time, these new Leadership Orlando graduates join the members of Class 83 in being formally certified through a unique partnership with the Community Foundation of Central Florida, the Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership Center at Rollins College, and the Central Florida Partnership. The 90-minute Orientation to Board Service course, presented by The Philanthropy Center's Senior Program Manager, Emily Furlong, provides crucial information on the roles and responsibilities of board members as well as fiduciary expectations and liabilities in volunteer leadership roles.


Craig M. McAllaster, Ed.D. shares insights with Leadership Orlando Class 84. Orientation to Board Service Certification provided through new community partnership.

Special thanks to Leadership Orlando Alum, Kaia Forgét, Program Manager at The Philanthropy Center, for designing and coordinating our session, who also served as Game Show Host as class members participated in a "jeopardy-like" test of their knowledge of the Leadership Orlando syllabus, reminding them of all that they have encountered during the last eight months.

Fellow Class Member Tom Hope, Associate Vice President, Rollins College, shared an entertaining and informative presentation on the history of Rollins College and its impact on Central Florida during lunch. That was followed by a campus-wide scavenger hunt for many of the class members while others took in the beauty of the Cornell Fine Arts Museum.


Top left: Tom Hope, Associate Vice President, Rollins College, shares the Rollins College story with fellow Leadership Orlando Class Members. Top right: Class Chair Adrian Jones recieves a gift from his fellow class members.

Marty Rubin, CEO of Smart City Telecom and Past Chair of Orlando, Inc., joins Robert Brown, CEO of Heart of Florida United Way, Mark Brewer, President/CEO of the Community Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., Flora Maria Garcia, President and CEO of United Arts of Central Florida, Inc., in a discussion about how to Connect and Engage as volunteer leaders in Central Florida.

Class members celebrated their graduation into community service at a reception at Park Plaza Gardens, sponsored by Rollins College, with members of the A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association).

It is with very Special Thanks that we recognize Adrian Jones, General Manager, LEGOLAND Florida, for his outstanding leadership and inspiration as Class 84 Chair. To the following members of Leadership Orlando Class 84, we say "Thank You" for your commitment to the Central Florida Region and Congratulations!

Chair
Adrian Jones
LEGOLAND Florida

Sherry R. Alexander
90.7 News

Todd L. Andrus
LEGOLAND Florida

Scott Barnhard
YMCA of Central Florida

Richard L. Barry
GrayRobinson, P.A.

Dustin J. Becker
PNC Financial Services Group

Alan G. Burcope
Finfrock Design-Manufacture-Construct

Carrie Busbee
HD Supply

Liza M. Coburn
BBVA Compass

Ursula Cutler
VITAS Innovative Hospice Care

Soraia Dearaujo
InCharge Debt Solutions

Cynthia Duffaut
NASA-John F. Kennedy Space Center

Scott A. Ferguson
Carr Riggs & Ingram, LLC

Nicole R. Finegan
HMS Certified Public Accountants, P.A.

Andrew J. Fleming
Golf Channel

Tamiko N. Fletcher
NASA

Michael G. Forde
Orlando Magic

Malvina Y. Gasco
The Boeing Company

Christopher A. Geiger
Lockheed Martin

Jeffery G. Goodwin
SunTrust Bank, Central Florida

Stephen Graham
Orlando Health (Dr. P. Phillips Hospital)

Karen E. Hagan
American Red Cross Mid-Florida Region

Marty R. Hardin
Trane

Bill B. Hawthorne
Skanska USA Building, Inc.

Jerry G. Henderson
Transportation Security Administration

David G. Hobbs
Seminole State College of Florida

Thomas Hope
Rollins College

William C. Hopkinson
U.S. Army PEO STRI

Wendy S. Horency
City of Orlando

Lynn F. Ivanek
Habitat for Humanity Greater Orlando

Fanita L. Jackson
VA Medical Center - Orlando

Cynthia A. Jantomaso
Haines City Economic Development Council

Michelle L. Kendall
Parsons Brinckerhoff

John M. Lewis, Jr.
LYNX

Tia R. Llewellyn
Devereux Florida

Sanj Marosi
Walt Disney World Resort

Kerry G. Martin
Curley & Pynn Public Relations and Marketing Communications

Cathy C. Matthews
Matthews Systems Engineering, Inc.

Nabil May
Regions Bank

Eva M. McConnell
Progress Energy

Lisa D. McCormick
Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission

Todd A. Miller
Greenberg Traurig, P.A.

Etta W. Money
InCharge Debt Solutions

Alan Morrison
Waste Management

Brian D. Murry
McDonald Toole Wiggins P.A.

Bryan J. Nadeau
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Frank W. Naylor, III
Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division

Robert Pigman
Orlando Police Department

Curtis S. Ramsey
Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, Inc.

Christopher P. Roper
Akerman Senterfitt

Laura O. Ross
Seminole State College of Florida

Terry E. Ross
Centerplate, Inc.

Deanne Schulz
McDonald's/Dalton Agency

Donny Smith
Hardin Construction Company, LLC

Luis A. Sosa
CNL Financial Group

Diana C. Teel
Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division

Charles J. Thompson
First Baptist Church of Orlando

Gary C. Wargo
Medical Curriculum Technologies (MCT)

James M. Wilbour
Lincoln Technical Institute

Enrollment is currently underway for Class 86, scheduled to begin in September 2013, with William G. Oakley, President/CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, Inc., serving as Class Chair. The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed at www.orlando.org/leadership. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at kathy.panter@orlando.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Developing regional leaders is important to the future success of the Central Florida Region. That is why "Regional Leadership" is a primary line of business for the Central Florida Partnership. With over thirty years of proven success, Leadership Orlando, America's largest "Community Leadership Program," continues to encourage, cultivate and recruit emerging leaders to better serve the Central Florida Region.

Working together with Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) focused on Regional Entrepreneurship, BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), and myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves), the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando

Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

?Turning the Page?

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Last week, the Leadership Council of the Central Florida Partnership conducted nine rounds of extended workshops over a three day period. This was another substantive step in the "Turning the Page " process that will result in a new roster of priorities for our seven-county region.

Alex Martins, President of the Orlando Magic and Chair of the Leadership Council, is leading his colleagues in managing this challenging work by asking three core questions:

What priorities unify the region?
What priorities address or have positive impacts on other issues and opportunities?
What priorities do the most for the people who call Central Florida "home"?

Jacob V. Stuart
President
Central Florida Partnership

It's been an honor to listen to over 500 leaders respond to this set of questions over the past twelve weeks and to serve as a kind of historian on how we take on priorities and succeeded on so many in the past explaining that, when we faced delay or changing conditions, we regrouped, reevaluated, and reentered the field of play with the best data. Leaders are offering their ideas because they know The Partnership and its "Lines of Business" have taken action in the past and have confidence we will move decisively to advance new priorities.

What is different about this round of priority-setting? Four significant changes are emerging.

First, there is a spirit of opportunity and optimism as our communities emerge from a long recessionary economy, albeit too slowly.

Second, leaders no longer come to workshops armed with single issues, independent agendas, and campaigns. They are looking for solutions on a regional scale, thinking creatively about root causes, shared agendas, and shared measures.

Third, a much broader cohort of leaders are using technology, data, and alternative forums to conduct these critical discussions.

Fourth, the competitive and economic scale of our region is being clarified and absorbed by leaders. Our gross regional product dwarfs many regions we have considered traditional benchmark competitors of the past. Our super regional posture in partnership with Tampa Bay makes us the 10^th largest in the U.S. Our research and collaborative platforms are national best practices, and our three sectors (public, private, and independent/philanthropy) want to work in-concert rather than in-silo.

Leaders, like the Chairs of Young Professionals Advisory Council, Orlando Inc., myregion.org, and the Central Florida Roundtable of Community Based Organizations (Michelle Chandler, Waymon Armstrong, George Walton, and Mark Brewer, respectively), have explored custom and flexible ways to discuss priorities, conduct surveys, and edit responses. Our current Chairs of Leadership Orlando Class 84 and 85 (Adrian Jones and Steve Hogan respectively) have insisted that "Turning the Page" be a part of class curriculum and a critical orienting feature for our future leaders.

When you have the opportunity, I would encourage you to express your appreciation to the entire Leadership Council for taking on the most challenging part of their assignment that lies ahead: drawing up insights and helping the Board decide where we invest precious resource and take action for the future prosperity of our Region. In the meantime, the " Turning the Page" portal is ready and updated for your review.

About the Central Florida Partnership
Click here to learn more about the Central Florida Partnership.
Click here for the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors.

Linking Members to Success

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

As a valued Member of Orlando, Inc., you are our greatest asset. We are proud to announce our newest initiative, MemberLink, a highly visible, prestigious and committed group of 100 active members of Orlando, Inc., representing all business sectors, membership levels, and stages of the business life cycle.

The primary purpose of MemberLink will be to "Link Members to Success" through monthly breakfast meetings, focused on the program of work of Orlando, Inc., and the "Lines of Business" of the Central Florida Partnership.

MemberLink "Organizational" Meeting
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
8:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Chamber of Commerce Building
RSVP to Pam Clancy at pam.clancy@orlando.org,
or call 407.835.2486

MemberLink will be facilitated by Mimi Hull, Ph.D., President of Hull & Associates; a member of the Board of Directors of Orlando, Inc. In her leadership role, Dr. Hull will be working with Kathy Panter, Vice President of Investor Relations for the Central Florida Partnership.

Dr. Hull is a fully Licensed Psychologist who specializes in organizational development and human relations training and consulting. Her programs are known for being upbeat, participatory and productive. She is a veteran speaker with amusing and inspiring information for every listener, including Change Management, Sales Training and Management, Organizational Development and Procedure, Board Development, Strategic Planning, Diversity, Leadership, Team Building and Motivation. Dr. Hull has been heard on WDBO 96.5 FM Radio, and is the "Dr. Mimi" who authors "Corporate Couch." To learn more about Dr. Hull's qualifications and experience, "click here," Mimi Hull, Ph.D.

Please accept our invitation to join our newest initiative, MemberLink. It will be an enjoyable and beneficial experience, both personally and professionally, providing you with new business contacts and tools to develop new business leadership skills.

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Please don't hesitate to contact Kathy Panter at kathy.panter@ideastoresults.org or by phone at 407.835.2499.

Orlando, Inc.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic, Business Connection and Business Partner . Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Mayor Jacobs Gathers Local Chambers

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Waymon Armstrong, President of Engineering and Computer Simulations and Chair of Orlando, Inc., and Vilma Quintana, Executive Vice President, joined Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and her Office of Economic Development team for "Coffee & Conversation" last week.

The meeting was held on Wednesday, March 27, 2013, at the Orange County Administration Building and was designed to promote collaboration and communication among Chambers of Commerce and explore how Orange County can support each organization's program of work.

"Our local Chambers of Commerce are economic development drivers and support small business development growth. For this reason, Orange County wants to make sure we maintain open channels of communication. We want know as much as we can so that we may continue improving our services. Furthermore, the Chambers can help promote the resources available to small businesses in Orange County," said Mayor Jacobs.

Participating Chambers of Commerce included:

African American Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
Apopka Chamber of Commerce
Asian American Chamber of Commerce
Brazilian American Chamber of Commerce
British American Chamber of Commerce
Caribbean American Chamber of Commerce
Central Florida Disability Chamber
East Orlando Chamber of Commerce
Goldenrod Chamber of Commerce
Greater Haitian Chamber of Commerce
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando
International Drive Resort Area Chamber of Commerce
MBA Orlando (Central Florida's LGBT Chamber)
Orlando, Inc.
Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida
West Orange Chamber of Commerce
Winter Park Chamber of Commerce

For more information about Orange County's Office of Economic Development, visit www.ocfl.net.

Florida Business Agenda - Regional Legislation Start Moving In Tallahassee

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Florida legislative sessions often contain many unexpected or unforeseen twists and turns but the sudden resignation in the second week of the session of Florida Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll who was linked to an internet café organization under investigation was clearly not one that could be expected or foreseen. Unfortunately for the governor, the Carroll resignation overshadowed news that Florida's unemployment rate dropped below the national average for the first time in five years and while its ultimate impact on the political fortunes of Gov. Scott remain to be seen, already an unexpected consequence of her resignation has resulted in long sought legislation to ban internet cafes now on the verge of passage.

Despite this shocking start to the 2013 legislative session, Central Florida legislators are turning their focus to those issues that matter to Florida businesses and some are playing a key role in moving a number of key components in the Florida Chamber's "2013 Business Agenda" in addition to the internet café ban gaining traction in the capital. With Obamacare now the law of the land, legislative reluctance particularly in the House to embrace the federal call to expand Medicaid has instead resulted in a "Florida Alternative" proposal surfacing in the Senate. With strong leadership shown by Rep. Jason Brodeur (R-Sanford), legislation to shore up and reform Florida's state employee pension system passed the House and moves to the Senate. To further reduce workmen's compensation costs, Sen. Alan Hays (R-Umatilla) has stepped up and is moving through committee legislation to close a costly prescription drug repackaging loophole. Hays also is spearheading legislation to expand our water supply with a 30 year alternative water supply permitting bill.

Action was also seen last week on some important legislation of regional interest. A measure by Sen. David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs) to collapse the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority and create a four county Central Florida Expressway Authority was favorably reported after receiving its first Senate committee hearing. Although some concerns on the legislation were expressed at the hearing by Osceola County officials, they committed to continue to constructively work with Sen. Simmons on ironing out the areas of concern. A similar bill, HB 945 by Rep. Bryan Nelson (R-Apopka), still awaits its first House committee hearing.

Central Florida Partnership priority legislation filed by powerful House Majority Leader Rep. Steve Precourt (R-Orlando) to preempt local governments, such as Orange County, from mandating paid sick leave is now poised for passage on the House calendar and a similar Senate bill authored by Sen. David Simmons passed its second Senate committee hurdle and moves on to its final Senate committee stop. Once again, insatiable sick leave community activists appeared to vigorously oppose the Simmons bill in committee even after Sen. Simmons agreed to accept an amendment suggested by the activists.

Renovation of regional sports facilities such as the Daytona International Speedway and a planned Orlando soccer facility anticipated to draw a new soccer team to the area were the beneficiaries of generous, and in the opinion of some in the media, overgenerous subsidies which were initially approved by a House committee.

With the religious holidays next week, legislative activity will be limited with legislators in Tallahassee for only two days. They will return on April 1 ^st to address the many tough and often controversial important issues impacting the business community during the final five hectic weeks before final adjournment on May 3^rd.

B.I.G. Award Transforms Social Enterprise

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Based in Orlando and operating in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, REBUILD globally (RG) takes an unorthodox approach to reducing poverty and creating business. Orlando, Inc. recognized REBUILD for its innovation and history of success by awarding it with the Judges' Choice Award at the 2012 Business Innovation & Growth Summit in November.

Producing beautiful, artisan-crafted sandals from recycled tires and repurposed leather, RG acts as a social enterprise offering vocational training, gainful employment, and educational opportunities for some of Port-au-Prince's most vulnerable populations.

"The B.I.G. Award has launched opportunities for growth in unprecedented ways. The opportunity to work with businesses in Central Florida who provide professional services has certainly increased our visibility. Clear Channel Outdoor provided billboards which enhanced our presence at the Surf Expo in January and the analysis provided by .Com Marketing is leading to a complete in-house renovation of our web site," states social entrepreneur and REBUILD CEO, Julie Colombino.

"Orlando, Inc. and all the organizations included in our prize package have helped give us the tools to launch our brand in the international market. We have already seen a huge increase in our online sales, and are filling orders to surf shops and boutiques around the world," says Sandra Fernandez, the organization's Country Director.

Building on the momentum from The B.I.G. Award, REBUILD globally will be holding a fundraiser on March 28^th at the University Club in Downtown Orlando. The event will feature a breathtaking performance by the world-renowned aerialist and Athlete of the Decade, Christine Van Loo. All proceeds from the event will support RG's youth development program, which provides academic scholarships, vocational training, and leadership skills to vulnerable young people in Haiti. To learn more or purchase tickets, please visit rebuildcocktails.eventbrite.com.

To learn more about REBUILD globally, sponsor a student, or purchase a pair of REBUILD recycled tire sandals, visitwww.rebuildglobally.org or contact Sandra Fernandez at Sandra@rebuildglobally.org.

Orlando, Inc.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Managing Expectations, Priorities and Time

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0400

The Mission – should you decide to accept it – is to spend one day a month from March through October exploring Central Florida, focusing on Strategic Priorities (Regional in Scope and Global in Context) that will make our region more competitive on the international stage.

That is exactly what sixty six business and community leaders intend to do as members of Leadership Orlando Class 85. Meeting for the first time on Tuesday, Class Chair, Steve Hogan, CEO or Florida Citrus Sports and this energetic and enthusiastic group immediately connected with their common mission and with each other.

Jacob Stuart, President of the Central Florida Partnership, facilitated the introductions of all the participants, connecting the dots between the companies they represent, and the leaders and issues that they should pay attention to in the coming months, the opportunities and challenges that will affect the future of the Central Florida Region.

Right out of the starting block, class members were asked to participate in an initiative designed "to build on the Partnership's success by renewing its roster of regional priorities and responding to the call for a new round of decisive actions for the coming years." Led by consultant, Donald N. Upton, President of Fairfield Index, Inc., this "Turning the Page" Workshop is one of many scheduled during March with outreach to a significant number of business and community leaders, seeking their input on "what's next" for Central Florida.

Also included in the program were leaders who have made a positive impact on our region through public service and relationship building. Former Tampa Mayor, Pam Iorio, shared many of the insights included in her recent book, STRAIGHTFORWARD: Ways to Live & Lead. Providing tips on How to Work a Room So it Works for You, Annetta Wilson provided skills in the Art of Networking that will serve class members well during their Leadership Orlando experience.



Class members practice networking, and then put their skills to use during a Reception with members of the A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association) including R. Van Bogan, Betsy Culpepper, Arnold Gibbs, Katherine 'Boo' Gonzalez, and David Smith.

On Wednesday, Steve Hogan welcomed Class 85 to his 'turf' at the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. A day of team building designed around his industry included many surprises. From Chalk Talk with Super Bowl Champion and Pittsburgh Steeler Max Starks to personalized team jerseys, participants chose up sides, developed team names and logos, and then met challenges like Catch & Throw, Field Goal Kicks, Minute to Win It, and Trivia and Tailgate competitions.

Many thanks to Steve Hogan and his outstanding "team" for putting together such a unique Leadership Bowl.



Click here to view more photos from this event.

Class 86 begins in September 2013, with William G. Oakley, President/CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Florida, Inc., serving as Class Chair. The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed at www.LeadershipOrlando.org. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.Panter@ideastoresults.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Capitol Days

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Michael Ketchum Vice President of Advocacy, and Vilma Quintana, Executive Vice President for Orlando, Inc., along with other Central Florida leaders, attended the Florida Chamber Capitol Days in Tallahassee last week, hearing from Governor Rick Scott, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Adam Putnam.

The Florida Chamber’s premier annual Tallahassee event, Capitol Days, was held March 6-8, 2013, and was designed to bring together CEOs, small business leaders, local chamber executives and elected officials from across Florida to discuss Florida’s transitioning economy and top business priorities for the upcoming legislative session.

This year’s Capitol Days addressed the Florida Chamber’s top legislative priorities focused on making Florida’s business climate more competitive and lowering the cost of living for Florida’s families and small business, including tax reform, legal reform, business climate reform, excellence in education and quality of life.

Florida Governor Rick Scott presents at Capitol Days 2013

Paid Sick Leave Preemption

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Once the traditional opening day ceremonies concluded, both houses of the legislature got down to work right away on a Central Florida Partnership legislative priority with further action seen on two measures that would effectively preempt paid sick leave mandates by local governments. HB 655, authored by Rep. Steve Precourt (R-Orlando), came out of the House State Affairs Committee headed by Central Florida Legislative Delegation Chair Rep. Steve Crisafulli (R-Merritt Island) on a 12-5 party line vote and will be calendared now for floor action. Meanwhile in the Senate, SB 726 was presented to the Senate Community Affairs Committee by its sponsor, Sen. David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs), who requested and received an assurance from the committee chair the bill would be scheduled for a full hearing and debate next week.

As was the case at its previous House committee stop, HB 655 attracted fierce opposition from Orlando area community activist groups and representatives of organized labor. Offsetting the opposition was a diverse assemblage of business organizations who effectively portrayed the havoc that would result on Florida businesses from paid sick leave mandates.

Among the House members of the Central Florida Legislative Delegation supporting HB 655 were Committee Chair Crisafulli, along with Reps. Jason Brodeur (R-Sanford), Mike LaRosa (R-Kissimmee), Neil Combee (R-Auburndale) and Rep. Ben Albritton (R-Bartow). Opposing the bill were Reps. Linda Stewart (R-Orlando), Dwayne Taylor (D-Daytona Beach) and Ricardo Rangel (D-Kissimmee).

Click here to view the Central Florida Legislative Delegation.

Multi-Modal Transportation

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0400

Regional Transportation was the focus as Leadership Orlando Class 84 gathered at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport on Thursday. Harold W. Barley, Executive Director of MetroPlan Orlando, served as the Session Moderator and provided an overview of Central Florida's multi-modal transportation system.

The presenters that followed included: Noranne Downs, District 5 Secretary, Florida Department of Transportation; John M. Lewis, Jr., CEO of LYNX; Scott Batterson, PE, Vice Chair of the Orlando-Orange County Expressway Authority and IBI Group (Florida) Inc.; Carolyn Fennell, Director of Public Affairs for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority;Jerry G. Henderson, Federal Security Director from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Orlando; and J. Stanley Payne, CEO of Canaveral Port Authority. Lewis and Henderson are also participants in Class 84.

Following lunch, Class Members provided reaction and response to the proposed 2040 Long-Range Transportation Plan for Central Florida, through a workshop presented by Cynthia Lambert, MetroPlan Orlando.

With safety and security top-of-mind, Leadership Orlando participants received a VIP behind-the-scenes tour conducted by the Transportation Security Administration that included the baggage processing area. With 100% of checked baggage and cargo now being screened at OIA, this is quite an operation. Security officers with the Bomb Appraisal Unit and the Security Checkpoint Units provided information on threat assessment and resolution.



Click here to view more photos.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

100 Year Anniversary for Orlando, Inc. Celebrations Begin

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0500

On behalf of Tico Perez, Past Chair (1997) of Orlando, Inc., and Chair of our 100 Year Celebration, we are happy to announce that preparations are underway for our 100 Year Celebration. These "first steps" beginning in April 2013 will include a 100 Year Anniversary Chairs' Luncheon; Presentation of a 100 Year Proclamation, and "The 100 Year Gala."

The 100 Year Anniversary Chairs' Luncheon will include the Past Chairs, Chairs and Chairs-Elect of Orlando, Inc., as well as the Central Florida Partnership, BusinessForce, and myregion.org.

100 Year Anniversary "Chairs' Luncheon"*
Friday, April 19, 2013
11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Chamber of Commerce Building

Past Chairs, Orlando, Inc., (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce gather for annual Past Chairs' Luncheon December 11, 2012

Additionally, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer will honor Orlando, Inc., with a presentation of a Proclamation honoring our 100 Year Anniversary at a meeting of the Orlando City Council, at Orlando City Hall; the exact time will soon be announced.

Presentation of 100 Year Proclamation
Orlando City Council Meeting
Monday, April 22, 2013
Time: TBD
Orlando City Hall

"The 100 Year Gala" for Orlando, Inc., is scheduled for later this year at the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport.

Orlando, Inc.
"The 100 Year Gala"
Saturday, September 21, 2013
6:00 to 9:30 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport

Throughout this important time of reflecting on our past and turning our line of vision to the future, our 100 Year Anniversary Celebration will properly be a part of any and every event, program or activity, hosted by the Central Florida Partnership or any of its "Lines of Business" – Orlando, Inc., BusinessForce, Leadership Orlando and myregion.org.

* Special Note: Invited to attend the 100 Year Anniversary "Chairs' Luncheon" will be the Chair, Chair-Elect, and all Past Chairs ofOrlando, Inc., Central Florida Partnership, BusinessForce, myregion.org, with recent and future Chairs of Leadership Orlando; along with the Chair and Past Chairs of the Central Florida Young Professionals Advisory Council.

Orlando, Inc.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Welcome New Members

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0500

We are proud to welcome new members for February 2013 to Orlando, Inc. We encourage you to review the following listings to see if there are goods and services provided by these new members that would be of value to you and your business.

Business Partners
Florida Apartment Association 875 Concourse Parkway South Suite 125 Maitland, FL 32751-6150 Ms. Laura A. Heiselman Organizations (Non-Profit)
Business Connections
Ace Relocation Systems, Inc. 2507 Investors Row Suite 400 Orlando, FL 32837-8384 Mr. Tom Westwood Moving and Storage Records Storage/Online LaCima Restaurants, LLC (Twin Peaks) 8350 International Drive Orlando, FL 32819-9327 Mr. David Nadelman Restaurants	Staples 8421 South John Young Parkway Orlando, FL 32819 Mr. Nahum Suarez Office Supplies
Business Basic
Clayton Air & Heating, Inc. 91 West Main Street Apopka, FL 32703-5155 Mr. Jose Mercado Air-Conditioning and Heating Davinci Worldwide, Inc. 189 South Orange Avenue Suite 1550 Orlando, FL 32801-3268 Mr. William Rodriguez, Jr. Collection Agencies EZ Learning Driving School, Inc. 7523 Aloma Avenue Suite 112 Winter Park, FL 32792-9158 Mr. Andres Patino Schools JDL Technologies 1228 East 7th Avenue Suite 200 Tampa, FL 33605 Mr. Chuck Szymczak Computer Technology Solutions Kings Bowl Orlando 8255 South International Drive Suite 120 Orlando, FL 32819-9350 Mr. Robert Morris Entertainment (Variety) Night Clubs LightbulbPRoductions 2203 Fosgate Drive Winter Park, FL 32789-6121 Ms. Heather Traynham Marketing	Physicians Collaborative Associates 425 West Colonial Drive Suite 302 Orlando, FL 32804-6863 Ms. Penny Kroker Health Care Consultants Retailer One on One, LLC 2345 West Sand Lake Road Suite 100 Orlando, FL 32809-9120 Ms. Julia Sosa Event Planning and Production Franchising Sherris Legal, P.A. 121 South Orange Avenue Suite 1270 Orlando, FL 32801-3249 Mr. Jimmy Sherris Attorneys (Personal Injury) Sun Cycles Bicycle Sharing Co. 625 East Central Boulevard Orlando, FL 32801-2916 Mr. Peter Martinez Bicycles and Parts Super Holiday Tours 116 Gatlin Avenue Orlando, FL 32806-6908 Mr. Bryan N. Cole Tour Operators

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce)

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A “Five-Star Chamber” – the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region. Working together with BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership), the Central Florida Partnership is moving “Ideas to Results.”

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Announcing 2013 Dates: Entrepreneurs Academies

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 04 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Imagine benefitting from the combined experiences of many successful entrepreneurs – mentorship-on-steroids, if you will. Imagine the direction and velocity your company can achieve with a proven network of critical resources and connections.

The highly-rated Entrepreneurs Academy, first presented in 2012 by Orlando, Inc., was created by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs to accelerate innovation and growth by helping companies navigate the rich set of resources available in the Orlando Economic Center.

"We are very proud to announce the schedule of dates for our 2013 the Entrepreneurs Academy," said Vilma Quintana, Executive Vice President for Orlando, Inc. "Building on the outstanding faculty and positive response of engaged participants, we are confident the Entrepreneurs Academy will help you make crucial connections that would otherwise take you years to assemble."

Two Dates to Choose from in 2013

First Class:
Day 1: Wednesday, September 25, 2013
            8:30 am to 4:00 pm
Day 2: Thursday, September 26, 2013
            9:00 am to 4:00 pm
            Graduation - 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm
Rollins College - Winter Park, FL

Click Here to Apply

Second Class:
Day 1: Wednesday, October 9, 2013
            8:30 am to 4:00 pm
Day 2: Thursday, October 10, 2013
            9:00 am to 4:00 pm
            Graduation - 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm
Rollins College - Winter Park, FL

Click Here to Apply

Each Academy will be held on the beautiful campus at Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida.

In the exclusive, two-day, interactive session, you'll meet and work with experts and entrepreneurs who represent elements of the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem: Advocates, Entrepreneurial Educators, Funding Sources, Professional Services, Recognition, Resource Providers, Sources of Innovation, and Talent – all of them focused on helping you take your business to the next level.

If you are looking for this type of dynamic learning environment, these power-packed days will help you gain a competitive edge . . . setting your goals higher, solving problems faster and achieving more in less time.

Each entrepreneur's journey is unique. To address unexpected challenges, it takes time to find the right resource at the right time. The differences among the many resources available are not always clear, nor are the sequencing or ways to ensure that the correct resource is not overlooked. The Entrepreneurs Academy will help you create a customized roadmap for your specific journey.

Visit www.orlando.org/academy for more information or to Register. Questions may be directed to Vilma Quintana at 407.835.2520 or vilma.quintana@orlando.org.

Orlando, Inc., is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A "Five-Star Chamber" – the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region, connecting entrepreneurs to success.

Working together with BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership), the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

Precourt Steers Paid Sick Leave Ban Past First Committee Hurdle

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Legislation to ban local governments from enacting paid sick leave mandates authored by House Majority Leader Rep. Steve Precourt (R-Orlando) was approved last week on an 11-7 straight party line vote in the House Local and Federal Affairs Committee. The measure now moves on to the House State Affairs Committee for further action while in the Senate, a paid sick leave ban by Sen. David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs) still awaits its first hearing.

Rep. Steve Precourt
(R-Orlando)

Among Central Florida Legislative Delegation members serving on the committee the Precourt bill was supported by Representatives Mike LaRosa (R-Kissimmee) and David Santiago (R-Deltona) while Representatives Randolph Bracy (D-Orlando) and Ricardo Rangel (D-Kissimmee) were in opposition.

“Leader Precourt is to be commended for his masterful job in shepherding the bill through the committee in the face of strong opposition from organized labor and others aligned with the out-of-state special interests who are spearheading the Orange County paid sick leave mandate initiative,” stated Central Florida Partnership Vice President for Public Policy Mike Ketchum.

Congratulations to George Aguel

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

2013 Chairman Aaron Gorovitz, Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A., and the Board of Directors of the Central Florida Partnership welcomed George A. Aguel as the new CEO of Visit Orlando, during its meeting on Wednesday. Accompanying him to the Board Meeting was Larry Henrichs, Visit Orlando's COO/CFO, who served as Interim CEO after the sudden passing of friend and colleague Gary Sain.

In his first day on the job, Aguel thanked the Partnership Board Members for their enthusiastic support and said he will continue the great work initiated by his predecessors and the outstanding team at Visit Orlando.

He expressed appreciation for the way that Mr. Henrichs stepped up to the plate during a sudden and devastating time for Visit Orlando and our community.

(L-R) Aaron J. Gorovitz, George A. Aguel, Larry Henrichs

Aguel has a history with our organization spanning over two decades with his participation in Leadership Orlando Class 25 while he was Vice President of Resort Sales at Walt Disney Attractions, Inc. He took an active role in the Hispanic Summit, presented by the Chamber in 2005 and 2006, and served on the Board of Directors for the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce in 2008-2009. In his new role, he will once again hold a seat on the Board of Directors of Orlando, Inc., (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce).

Central Florida Partnership - Ideas to Results
The Central Florida Partnership is a collaborative of business and civic leaders committed to procuring a better tomorrow for Central Florida's seven counties - Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia. We are thoughtful leaders united by a single, guiding principle - that we have both the power and the responsibility to make change happen.

About the Central Florida Partnership
Click here to learn more about the Central Florida Partnership.
Click here for the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors.

Orlando is Electrifying - Ride in Style in a Chevy Volt

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

To the founders of the Orlando Chamber of Commerce, celebrating its 100^th Anniversary this year, the automobile was a relatively new phenomenon. They might never have imagined what a powerful force it would become and the innovative forms of transportation in use today, much less what is planned for the future of Central Florida.

At the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, Chairman Aaron Gorovitz, Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A., was sporting a new ride. Testing the electric technology of the new Chevy Volt, the loaner car was made available by the Electrification Coalition.

Its exciting initiative, Drive Electric Orlando, is intended to give visitors to the greater Orlando area an opportunity to try a plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) while here for vacation or business. See last week's Every Monday article, Drive Electric Orlando Leaders Encouraged to Try Electric Vehicles, for more details.


(L-R) Library of Congress: An early Benz automobile. Early steam automobile presented to Smithsonian . De Dion motor carriage #2. c1901.

Electrifying the light-duty, passenger vehicle transportation system is the best way to enhance our national and economic security by reducing the role that oil plans in the economy because:

Electrification promotes fuel diversity
Electric vehicles will be powered by largely domestic fuels
Electricity prices are generally more stable than oil prices
Electrification will increase energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption

For more, contact:
Electrification Coalition, 1111 19^th Street, N.W., Suite 406, Washington, D. C. 20036
Telephone: 202.448.9300 or visit www.ElectrificationCoalition.org.

Central Florida Partnership - Ideas to Results

The Central Florida Partnership is a collaborative of business and civic leaders committed to procuring a better tomorrow for Central Florida's seven counties - Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia. We are thoughtful leaders united by a single, guiding principle - that we have both the power and the responsibility to make change happen.

About the Central Florida Partnership
Click here to learn more about the Central Florida Partnership.
Click here for the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors.

Paid Sick Leave Preemption Bill Gets First House Hearing

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

On the heels of a Circuit Court ruling issued last Friday by a three judge panel ordering the Orange County Commission to place the mandatory paid sick leave referendum on the ballot the action now shifts to the State Capital this week when HB 655, a measure authored by House Majority Leader Rep. Steve Precourt (R-Orlando) to effectively negate any referendum by prohibiting Florida political subdivisions from requiring employers to provide certain employment benefits, such as paid sick leave, will receive its first hearing in the House Local and Federal Affairs Committee on Wednesday.

Rep. Steve Precourt
(R-Orlando)

In introducing the legislation Rep. Precourt told Every Monday, "I'm glad to file this bill to insure a positive business climate and level playing field exists throughout Florida and we do not have a hodge-podge of conflicting local ordinances and regulations adversely impacting our businesses on matters that are clearly best left to the private sector and not government to determine."

The Precourt legislation was prompted by recent efforts by special interest groups in Orange County and Miami-Dade County largely funded by out-of-state organizations to mandate paid sick leave for employees. In Orange County, their efforts led to a petition drive in 2012 to place a paid sick leave referendum on last November's general election ballot. However, the Orange County Commission on Sept. 11^th delayed placing the referendum on the November ballot when the referendum proponents publicly admitted changes were needed to the defective ballot language. A lawsuit that is still pending contesting the referendum and challenging the confusing, deceptive and misleading ballot language had earlier been spearheaded and coordinated by the Central Florida Partnership on behalf of Orlando, Inc. and a host of local and statewide business organizations.

Central Florida Partnership Vice President for Public Policy Mike Ketchum hailed the Precourt legislation stating, "Leader Precourt recognizes this as bad public policy and he fully understands the unintended consequences that would result from this ill-conceived, job-killing initiative being promoted by certain special interest groups who are avowed opponents of our free enterprise system. Ketchum added, "In their haste to achieve at the ballot box an entitlement for themselves the referendum proponents admittedly deceived petition signers and chose to ignore the disastrous effects this onerous mandate would have on Florida businesses by placing them at a competitive disadvantage and under a compliance nightmare at a time when many are still desperately struggling to keep their doors open in today's economy."

Meanwhile, SB 726, a bill also aimed at preempting paid sick leave mandates by political subdivisions has been filed in the Florida Senate by Sen. David Simmons (R-Altamonte Springs) and is awaiting its first Senate committee hearing.

Drive Electric Orlando - Leaders Encouraged to Try Electric Vehicles

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

At a recent meeting of the region's business and community leaders hosted by the Central Florida Partnership, Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and representatives from the Electrification Coalition provided a briefing on an exciting initiative, Drive Electric Orlando, intended to give visitors to the greater Orlando area an opportunity to try a plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) while here for vacation or business.

Through the availability of electric vehicles at major rental car agencies and a network of charging stations located strategically at hotels, theme parks, and the convention center, the initiative will create a seamless rental car experience for visitors to see first-hand that electric vehicles are reliable, fun to drive and can meet their daily driving needs.

Today, Jacob V. Stuart, President of the Central Florida Partnership, will take delivery of a PEV, on loan for one week, to test drive this innovative technology.

The Orlando community has illustrated a commitment to becoming one of America's model communities for electric vehicles by building an EV charging network that boasts more than 300 stations. Further, support for similarly civic-minded initiatives from government and business leaders has proven to be strong.

Drive Electric Orlando is committed to creating a positive experience for visitors that choose to rent an electric vehicle by providing technical advice, documentation for staff and visitors, and recommending best practices. Participation of rental car companies, hotels, theme parks, and the convention center is crucial to its success.

Electrifying the light-duty, passenger vehicle transportation system is the best way to enhance our national and economic security by reducing the role that oil plans in the economy because:

Electrification promotes fuel diversity;
Electric vehicles will be powered by largely domestic fuels'
Electricity prices are generally more stable than oil prices; and
Electrification will increase energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

For more, contact:
Electrification Coalition, 1111 19^th Street, N.W., Suite 406, Washington, D. C. 20036
Telephone: 202.448.9300 or visit www.ElectrificationCoalition.org.

Central Florida Partnership - Ideas to Results
The Central Florida Partnership is a collaborative of business and civic leaders committed to procuring a better tomorrow for Central Florida's seven counties - Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia. We are thoughtful leaders united by a single, guiding principle - that we have both the power and the responsibility to make change happen.

About the Central Florida Partnership
Click here to learn more about the Central Florida Partnership.
Click here for the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors.

Entrepreneurs Ecosystem Workshop - Creating Your Roadmap to Growth

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Each entrepreneur's journey is unique. The path to innovation and growth is specific to their product or service, skill sets as a CEO, competitive landscape, marketplace, economy and many other factors. It can take time to find the right resource at the right time, creating unexpected challenges. Where to go?

At the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem Workshop, scheduled for the third Monday of every month, you will learn about the rich set of resources available in the Orlando economic center, also known as our Entrepreneurs Ecosystem. Learn who represent the elements of our Entrepreneurs Ecosystem: Advocates, Entrepreneurial Educators, Funding Sources, Professional Services, Recognition, Resource Providers, Sources of Innovation, and Talent - all of them focused on helping you take your business to the next level.

Mark your calendar to attend an Entrepreneurs Ecosystem Workshop. Everyone is welcome, there is no charge to attend and no appointment is necessary!

Orlando, Inc.
Entrepreneurs Ecosystem Workshop
Monday, March 4, 2013
9:00 – 9:30 a.m.
Chamber of Commerce Building
75 South Ivanhoe Boulevard, Downtown Orlando
No appointment necessary
(Click for Map)

For more information, please contact Demitra Campbell at 407.835.2532 or demitra.campbell@orlando.org.

Additional Dates:

Monday, April 1, 2013

Monday, May 6, 2013

Monday, June 3, 2013

Monday, September 9, 2013

Monday, October 7, 2013

Monday, November 4, 2013

On the Road Again - Leadership Orlando Travels to Brevard County

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Just weeks ago, we experienced the 'peaceful transfer of power' in Washington, D. C. with the Presidential Inauguration. At the last Leadership Orlando session, Class Chair Adrian Jones referenced a new transition initiative called "Turning the Page" for which the input of Class Members is essential in identifying new strategic regional priorities for the Central Florida Partnership. And, one of our region's most high-profile assets in Brevard County is experiencing its own reformation as it determines its future role in the nation's space program.

The Leadership Orlando session on Thursday, February 7, focused on transition and transformation as well. Beginning our day, Adrian Jones, General Manager of LEGOLAND Florida, led a discussion on the regional priorities that have been advanced as part of the Leadership Orlando Class 84 curriculum since September 2012.

Working with Steve Genoway, our consultant at Fairfield Index, Inc., participants evaluated the effectiveness of the Partnership in accomplishing these priorities and looked ahead to determine what's next. Similar conversations are being held with board members and volunteer leaders across the Central Florida Partnership's Lines of Business. In addition, a series of similar "Brainstorming Sessions" will be held with community leaders during the last week of March, designed to identify new regional priorities that will guide our collective work in the months and years ahead.



.

The Leadership Orlando class then traveled to Brevard County for an update on the Aerospace industry, specifically the future of the NASA-Kennedy Space Center, hearing from Trey Carlson, Master Planner at KSC. A private sector perspective was provided by Chris Wrenn, Director – Orlando Region for The Pizzuti Companies, on its development of Exploration Park at the Kennedy Space Center, a compelling site for all who seek to improve our lives on earth through scientific inquiry, technological innovation, and an entrepreneurial spirit.



.

Class members then participated in some exciting team-building experiences themed around the Space Program. The Astronaut Training Experience (ATX) provided participants with the opportunity to be Astronauts-for-a-Day as part of Mission Control and Orbiter Crews. With personal access to the Multi-Axis Trainer which simulates the disorientation of a tumble spin reentry into the earth's atmosphere, these trainees got a small taste of what it takes to be a member of the Astronaut Corps. Teams also built their own 'Mars Landers' and competed to accurately land an egg in the target area without breaking it, utilizing a variety of supplies that included plastic cups, balloons, etc. Most 'out-of-the-box' design was offered by the Rapunzel team.



.Click here to view more photos from this event.

If you have been looking for the "right" time and have the "right stuff" to participate in Leadership Orlando, or know someone does, now is indeed the perfect time to be a part of America's largest Community Leadership program, Leadership Orlando. Preparing for the future of our region is up to each of us. Now is the time to learn about the issues, participate in the difficult conversations and help in guiding our future.

Class 85 begins in March and is filling up quickly, with Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, serving as Class Chair. The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed at www.LeadershipOrlando.org. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.Panter@ideastoresults.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Access and Opportunity

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Leadership Orlando graduates who joined the A-Team for 2013 have already received information about two unique opportunities – both offering special discounts – for popular sporting events in the region.

Race Rewards discounts were made available by the Daytona International Speedway for a series of races from stock cars to super cross, scheduled for the first quarter of the year, and the Orlando Magic has provided significantly reduced pricing for Dinner & A Game, which features dinner at Jernigan's Restaurant and Club Seating for a game. But, you have to be a member of the 2013 A-Team to take advantage of these special offers.

Membership has its privileges!

Throughout the year, the A-Team is our "Go To" list with information on issues critical to our region's future, opportunities to network and build relationships, and just plain fun. Don't miss out. When these specials come to our attention, we will immediately pass them along.

If you are a Leadership Orlando Alum, renew your membership now and ensure that you stay on the cutting edge of the Central Florida Partnership's innovative work. As we look to the year ahead, make sure that you are a part of the action! It's Easy! Just click here to Renew Your Membership and Stay Connected.

If you want to re-connect with your own classmates, the A-Team may be the answer. Leadership Orlando maintains a database that includes over 5,000 program graduates. Can't remember who was in your class? Or when you graduated? Need to contact a classmate that you've lost track of? Contact us and we'll do what we can to connect you.

About Leadership Alumni - A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association)

Leadership Alumni, all graduates of Leadership Orlando and Leadership Central Florida, have always been very important to our collective success. Your perspective, your insight and your voice continue to make Central Florida strong.

Working together with Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership), Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) focused on Regional Entrepreneurship, BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), and myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves), the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Welcome New Members For January 2013

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

We are proud to welcome new members for January 2013 to Orlando, Inc. We encourage you to review the following listings to see if there are goods and services provided by these new members that would be of value to you and your business.

Business Partners
Client Intellect, Inc. 2603 Challenger Tech Court Suite 110 Orlando, FL 32826-2716 Mr. Eric Pratt Computer Technology Solutions	Mango's 8102 International Drive Orlando, FL 32819-9323 Mr. Joshua Wallack Night Clubs Restaurants (Concert Facility)
Business Connections
National Air Cargo Holdings DBA National Airlines 5955 T.G. Lee Boulevard Suite 200 Orlando, FL 32822-4423 Mr. Garrett Matyas Airline (Companies) OptiGrate Corporation 562 South Econ Circle Oviedo, FL 32765-4303 Alexei Glebov, Ph.D. Manufacturers	Planet Café 14842 Water Locust Drive Orlando, FL 32828-7327 Ms. Triesta Hall Media Advertising
Business Basic
A Chair Affair, Inc. 401 New Tech Court Suite 101 DeBary, FL 32713-4850 Ms. Ann Taylor Event Planning and Production Wedding Services American Express Open 537 Loyola Circle Suite 204 Orlando, FL 32828 Ms. Amy Goodman Credit/Debit Card (Services/Equipment) Anytime Fitness 2425 South Hiawassee Road Suite A Orlando, FL 32835-8760 Mr. Nicholas Carter Health and Fitness (Facilities/Trainers) Coed Barber Salon, LLC 1008 Mack Avenue Orlando, FL 32805-3730 Mr. Elvis Picanso Beauty Services/Salons Dewitt Law Firm, P.A. 37 North Orange Avenue Suite 840 Orlando, FL 32801 Ms. Sherri K. Dewitt Attorneys KaneyLaw 6 Broadwater Drive Ormond Beach, FL 32174-8742 Ms. Elan Kaney Attorneys (Corporations and Business Law) Paychex, Inc. 1001 Heathrow Park Lane Suite 2001 Lake Mary, FL 32746-7600 Mr. Wayne Carter Payroll Services	Realty Capital Commercial Real Estate Services 605 East Robinson Street Suite 500 Orlando, FL 32801-2045 Mr. Erik Vasquez Real Estate (Commercial/Industrial) Regus 3505 Lake Lynda Drive Suite 200 Orlando, FL 32817-8333 Ms. Lisette Barteau Professional Services Sugar Mill Country Club, Inc. 100 Clubhouse Circle New Smyrna, FL 32168 Mr. Derek Morrison Golf Courses and Country Clubs The Eternal Tap 116 West Church Street Suite 603 Orlando, FL 32801-3304 Mr. Jeremy Roberts Restaurants The Law Offices of Jeremy Thakurdin & Associates 7901 Kingspointe Parkway Suite 9 Orlando, FL 32819-6523 Mr. Tark Aoudi Attorneys Twelve Consulting, LCC 217 Meadow Bay Court Lake Mary, FL 32746-3848 José A. Fajardo, MBA Consultants

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce)

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Balancing Profit and Purpose: The Business of Social Entrepreneurship

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Mark Brewer

Social Entrepreneurship, an innovative model for doing business and doing good, is making its mark in the business and non-profit worlds. Learn what it takes to excel at this emerging business model of balancing profit and purpose.

Mark Brewer serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Community Foundation of Central Florida, Inc., a public grantmaking foundation that serves as a trusted philanthropic home for nearly 400 charitable funds established by generous individuals, families and corporations. Mark's involvement in the Central Florida nonprofit sector spans more than two decades and he has earned respect for his ability to build community partnerships that meet issues head-on and produce measureable results.

Mark has worked with hundreds of individuals, families, and corporations to establish philanthropy plans, endowments, funding strategies, and planned gifts. He is also well-known national speaker on nonprofit sector management and strategy, philanthropy's role in America, venture philanthropy strategies, and the role of the nonprofit sector in public policy.

Also Leading the Conversation

Julie Colombino
CEO
REBUILD Globally

REBUILD Globally turns discarded tires into recycled tire sandals, transforming lives in both Haiti and locally.

REBUILD Globally won the Judges' Choice B.I.G.* Award
at The B.I.G.* Summit in 2012.

Shawn Seipler
CEO
Clean the World

Clean the World recycles discarded soap from hotels and distributes it worldwide to prevent the spread of illness and disease.

Learn what it takes to excel at this emerging
business model for balancing profit and purpose.

Social entrepreneurial ventures can be for profit or non-profit, or they can be both. They are equally as innovative, scalable and sustainable as traditional entrepreneurial ventures, and have a double or triple bottom line - economic return, social return and sometimes environmental return.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn:

What does it actually mean to be a social entrepreneur?
What are the options in terms of organization?
What are the challenges and opportunities facing social entrepreneurs?
What strategies can be applied to make this business model scalable?
What are the opportunities for social innovation in our region?



Complimentary Admission for Orlando, Inc. Business Partners and Business Connection Level Members $39 - Business Basic Members of Orlando, Inc. $59 - Non Members	Questions: Contact Demitra Campbell at demitra.campbell@orlando.org or 407.835.2532.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

Leading Economic Driver Steers New Leadership Orlando Class

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:00:00 -0500

The ratings are in on the 2012-13 bowl season and Florida Citrus Sports-managed events helped spread the word nationally and internationally about Orlando. Leading this effort was Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, who will also Chair of the new Leadership Orlando class beginning in March,

"We are very happy with the performance of the Russell Athletic and Capital One bowls on television this year," said Hogan. "Our games continue to reside in the top-tier of the postseason in terms of total viewers and we are proud of the showcase they provide for our destination."

Numbers released recently show The Capital One Bowl alone attained over 7.5 million household impressions. In addition, Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium – with renovation about to begin – saw 107,839 fans pass through its gates for the two games combined. The game earned a 6.6 household rating, up 130 percent from 2011-12, the largest percentage improvement of any bowl game in 2012-13 and seventh-best among all bowls. Since 1984 (29 years), the Capital One Bowl has averaged an impressive 7.4 rating. The debut of the Russell Athletic Bowl posted a 3.0 household coverage rating and was a success in its initial effort with 48,127 in attendance.

Managing bowl games in Orlando since 1947, Florida Citrus Sports and its two bowl games are leaders in the postseason college football landscape. The Capital One Bowl leads all non-Bowl Championship Series games with an annual payout of $9.2 million, while the Russell Athletic Bowl's payout of $4.65 million is also amongst the top payouts in the industry.

"We're confident that Class 85 Chair, Steve Hogan, will bring that same excitement, energy and enthusiasm to our program," said Ruth Z. Mustian, President of Leadership Orlando. "We're sure he'll bring his passion for Central Florida to our participants as they explore our region over the next eight months."

Class 85 begins in March 2013, with Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, serving as Class Chair. The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed at www.LeadershipOrlando.org. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.Panter@ideastoresults.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Congressman John L. Mica to Speak at Transportation Summit

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

The Florida Chamber Foundation, in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation, is excited to announce that Congressman John L. Mica will join the speaker lineup at the Transportation Summit in Greenville, Florida on February 11. Just outside of the state Capitol, this one-day summit will bring together top business and industry leaders in Florida to participate in helping to secure Florida’s transportation future.

Mica is the former Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and in this role he was successful in leading the passage of many bills related to infrastructure projects. Some of those include enacting a major highway and surface transportation bill, passing a long-stalled FAA bill that was integral in moving the aviation industry forward, and many more. Under Mica’s chairmanship, a total of 30 of 55 bills were signed into law, positively impacting the nation’s infrastructure and competitiveness needs, including Florida.

The Summit includes a powerful lineup of additional invited guests and speakers, including:

Governor Rick Scott
Secretary Ananth Prasad
Speaker Will Weatherford

The Summit will cover essential topics to Florida’s transportation future such as freight, logistics and trade; mobility, moving people and goods; funding and investment, and much more.

To view the agenda and to register, go online today to www.FloridaChamber.com/TransSummit. Those who register before next Friday will have the opportunity to provide input on the questions the moderators should ask the panelists. Space is limited so register soon!

The Clock is Ticking - Four Weeks Left to Enroll in Leadership Orlando

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

If you've been looking for the 'right' time to participate in Leadership Orlando, or if know someone who would benefit from this proven leadership experience, now is indeed the perfect time to be a part of America's largest community leadership program, Leadership Orlando.

Preparing for the future of our region is up to each of us. There's no time like the present to learn about regional issues and participate in the community conversations that are helping to guide our future.

Class 85 begins in March 2013, with Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, serving as Class Chair. Hogan has served Florida Citrus Sports for 17 years with 14 of them spent in a leadership role. Now in his seventh year as Florida Citrus Sports' Chief Executive Officer, Hogan has been instrumental in the organization's development from a single bowl game into its current standing as one of the leading membership-based organizations in sports. He is also presently serving a two-year term as Chairman of the Football Bowl Association (FBA).

The 2007-08 year was a monumental one for Hogan and Florida Citrus Sports when the City of Orlando and the Orange County government voted on what amounted to the future of the bowls in Orlando. A renovated Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium – along with the new Amway Center and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts – was approved, and Hogan was instrumental in helping tout the importance of a renovated Citrus Bowl to government officials as well as the public.

With a plan now in place that will finance the nearly $200 million facelift for the stadium, bonds are expected to be issued in 2014, with construction beginning in either January or February of that year. Among the upgrades expected for the 65,000-seat stadium are: new suites and about 8,000 club seats; more restrooms and concession stands; and new banquet and ballroom spaces. Hogan said that with the upgrades, the stadium should be able to generate $250 million in revenue each year, with 70 percent to 80 percent of that money coming from visitors' spending money in Orlando.

Needless to say, members of Leadership Orlando Class 85 will be "in the know" when it comes to becoming the bowl industry leader in generating economic and exposure impact, providing the best customer experience and establishing Orlando as the nation's premier neutral site/venue for sports events.

The online enrollment form for Leadership Orlando and the full schedule may be accessed atwww.LeadershipOrlando.org. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.Panter@ideastoresults.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Business Partner Member Profile - Mango?s Tropical Caf

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Periodically, Every Monday will feature members at the Business Partner level of Orlando, Inc. So that we can get to know them better and have access to the products and services that they provide, today we are featuring Mango's Tropical Caf: From Ocean Drive to International Drive.

As published in Miami's Community Newspapers on January 14, 2013, South Beach's Mango's Tropical Caf, a premier attraction in Miami Beach and one of the top restaurant/ nightclubs in the U.S. for more than 20 years, is slated to open a second entertainment venue on Orlando's International Drive during the third quarter of 2014. The newly acquired Orlando site sits at the main Interstate 4 interchange for the Convention Center District and International Drive.

Joshua Wallack, COO of Mango's in South Beach, will relocate to Central Florida to oversee the development of Mango's Orlando. His commitment to Miami Beach is extensive, having spearheaded the campaign to pass the resort tax for the Miami Beach Convention Center renovation and expansion project and he sits as a member of that Chamber's Board of Governors and Executive Board. He is sure to bring that same commitment to Central Florida.

"We are very fortunate to have such a dynamic opportunity in Orlando," said Joshua Wallack, "Mango's Orlando will become the largest must-see nightlife entertainment destination in Central Florida with amazing shows, atmosphere, and late night dining."

Just as in South Beach, Mango's Orlando is expected to become a targeted tourist destination in Orlando, the most-visited US city with more than 55 million visitors each year. The 2.9-acre site is situated at 8102 International Drive, at the entrance to the Orange County Convention Center district. The convention center is the second largest in the U.S. with 2.1 million square feet of exhibition space. The existing two-story, 49,000-square-foot building, a former TGI Fridays concept and Bargain World retail store, will undergo extensive renovations.

Architectural rendering of Mango's Tropical Caf Orlando

Mango's helped to create the South Beach of today. During the early 1990s, Mango's was one of the first major nightclubs to stimulate the South Beach renaissance, and today it stands strong because it has something for everyone. The venue boasts wonderful food and entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere before 10 pm when it transforms into a nightclub with a variety of music and dancing as well as live performances. Mango's attracts young and old, families and young singles, tourists and locals, and everyone that enters is a celebration of Miami Beach.

It is precisely this unique atmosphere, a testament to Miami Beach, which will be transported to Orlando. The Orlando location will be the same, only larger, boasting 65,000 sq. ft., and representing a total investment of $30 million.

Mango's Orlando will surely follow in the South Beach location's footsteps and have great success in Central Florida. The Orlando location will reach even more visitors and teach them about the unique culture, history and beauty of Miami Beach. Mango's Orlando and Joshua Wallack will serve as ambassadors for the Million Dollar Sandbar bringing the message of beach breeze, tropical heat and Latin flavor to its Orlando guests.

Orlando, Inc.

Orlando, Inc., is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A "Five-Star Chamber" ? the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ? we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

U.S. Chamber President - Exploding Debt Greatest Threat to our Economic Future

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue delivered his annual State of American Business address on January 10, 2013, calling our exploding national debt the single biggest threat to our economic future, and urging leadership and action to tackle the enormous fiscal challenges and build a new prosperity that offers opportunity for all Americans.

"The imperative of economic growth should not be an afterthought. It must be job one," said Donohue. "As a nation and a people, we must finally face up to the single biggest threat to our economic future?and that is our exploding national debt, driven by runaway deficit spending, changing demographics, and unsustainable entitlements. Congress and the administration must focus their attention on this critical priority. Economic growth cannot solve all of our problems, but without growth, we will not be able to solve any of them."

These links direct you to the Press Release as well as the Full Speech and Video of the Address that are also available online at http://www.uschamber.com/sab.

Donohue Unveils New Agenda to Tackle Fiscal Challenges and Drive Economic Growth

In his remarks, Tom outlined the Chamber's top policy priorities for the coming year? The American Jobs and Growth Agenda?an ambitious effort to advance common sense reforms that will generate economic growth, create jobs, and expand opportunity for all Americans. The agenda also emphasizes the urgent need to address the fiscal crisis with a bold plan that slows the growth of runaway spending, reforms entitlement programs, and overhauls our tax code.

"The over-riding objective of this ambitious plan is to generate stronger economic growth in order to create jobs, lift incomes, and expand opportunity for all Americans," he said. "America needs big solutions so it's time to put the smallness of politics aside. We call upon all of America's leaders in and out of government to put country first."

The U.S. Chamber's 2013 American Jobs and Growth Agenda outlines five major issue priorities the U.S. Chamber will be pushing within the Administration and on Capitol Hill in 2013:

Produce more American energy

Expand American trade

Modernize our regulatory system

Reform our immigration and visa policies

Address the fiscal crisis with a bold plan that slows the growth of runaway spending, reforms entitlement programs, and overhauls our tax code

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

Contact: Moore Hallmark or Robbie Purser, USCC Southeast Office, 770-951-8864

Orlando, Inc.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Who Joins the A-Team? - 2013 Leadership Alumni Association

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 21 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Since 1975, business and community leaders have made a commitment to our community by participating in Leadership Orlando and remaining connected through the Leadership Alumni Association. Now dubbed the A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association), its members represent a broad sampling of Leadership Orlando classes presented over more than three decades.

From ABC Fine Wine & Spirits represented by Robert Gibson (Class 62), to the YMCA represented by Wayne Humphrey (Class 66), Leadership Orlando has been a staple for companies and organizations that encourage their employees to be community builders.

Graduates from the early years still value their Leadership Orlando connections. Just ask William Boyles (Class 21) and Frederick Leonhardt (Class 25) with GrayRobinson, P.A., or Brant Bittner, Orange County Bar Association (Class 18), Carol Monroe, Florida Cirtus Sports (Class 20), P. Frederick O'Dea, Jr., Hubbard Construction Company (Class 22) or Diane Culpepper, Bright House Networks (Class 45).

A line of business of the Central Florida Partnership, Leadership Orlando continues to provide informational updates and access to opportunities that are defining the future of the Central Florida Region. Leadership Development and Networking Events are also made available to the A-Team through the current Leadership Orlando curriculum.

Many members of the A-Team now serve in key public, private and civic sector leadership positions throughout our region, along with this sampling of graduates/participants who represent key investors in the Central Florida Partnership:

Laura Peters Armstrong
Florida Trend (Class 30)

Yolanda L. Cade
AAA (Class 78)

Jeffrey E. Decker
BakerHostetler (Class 35)

Charles S. Dorr
Hardin Construction Company, LLC (Class 31)

Richard T. Florell
Universal Orlando Resort (Class 41)

Alex Martins
Orlando Magic (Class 33)

Craig M. McAllaster, Ed.D.
Rollins Crummer Graduate
School of Business (Class 56)

Troy L. McNichols
AT&T (Class 83)

Thomas Schneider
Wycliffe Bible Translators, Inc. (Class 74)

Paul Shaffer
G&T Conveyor Company, Inc. (Class 82)

If you want to stay connected, or re-connect with your own classmates, the A-Team may be the answer. Leadership Orlando maintains a database that includes nearly 5,000 program graduates. Can't remember who was in your class? Or when you graduated? Need to contact a classmate that you've lost track of? Contact us and we'll do what we can to connect you.

Renew your membership now and enjoy the benefits available exclusively to paid members of the A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association) ensuring that you stay on the cutting edge of the Central Florida Partnership's innovative work.

As we look to the challenges ahead, make sure that you are a part of the action! It's Easy! Just click here to Renew Your Membership and Stay Connected.

About Leadership Alumni - A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association)

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando

Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Welcome New Members For December 2012

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

We are proud to welcome new members for December 2012 to Orlando, Inc. We encourage you to review the following listings to see if there are goods and services provided by these new members that would be of value to you and your business.

Business Connections
Clean the World 400A Pittman Street Orlando, FL 32801 Mr. Shawn Seipler Organizations (Non-Profit) Fuelzee 3020 Harrison Avenue Orlando, FL 32804-3732 Mr. Dan McGaw Telecommunications (Products/Services)	RadiusBlue 189 South Orange Avenue, Suite 2000 Orlando, FL 32801-3262 Mr. Eric Kovar Computer (Software Development)
Business Basic
Aircraft Support & Services, Inc. 4906 Patch Road Orlando, FL 32859-0067 Mr. Justin Troske Aircraft (Servicing, Maintenance and Repair) Gerber Collision and Glass 909 West Amelia Avenue Orlando, FL 32805-1405 Mr. Rob Robbins Automobile (Body Repair/Painting) Panda Express 2972 South Kirkman Road Orlando, FL 32811-1968 Ms. Lourdes Sanchez Catering Restaurants	Pier & De, LLC 911 North Orange Avenue, Suite 223 Orlando, FL 32801-1068 Mr. Piergiorgio Quintiero Restaurants Unique Air Services 3979 South Orange Blossom Trail, Suite 207 Orlando, FL 32839-7906 Mr. Carlos Aponte Air-Conditioning and Heating

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce)

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A ?Five-Star Chamber? ? the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ? we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region. Working together with BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership), the Central Florida Partnership is moving ?Ideas to Results.?

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Capitalizing on Hogan's Leadership

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

If recent headlines have anything to say about it, Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, led Central Florida in putting its best foot forward for residents and visitors alike. From Pep Rallies to Fan Fests, and Bowl Game Kickoff Luncheons to the Orlando Citrus Parade, 2012-2013 Bowl Week set the stage for even bigger and better things in the years to come.

Virginia Tech To Meet Rutgers In Russell Athletic Bowl

Virginia Tech Comes Back To Trump Rutgers In Overtime

Georgia Wins Barnburner Over Nebraska, 45-31

Aaron Murray Makes History With Capital One Bowl MVP Performance

Florida Citrus Sports is a not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to increasing community spirit and pride, promoting tourism, stimulating economic development and ultimately benefiting charities, educational institutions and the quality of life in Central Florida through its signature events.

With the approval of nearly $200 million in renovations to the stadium, the possibilities for Orlando to become the bowl industry leader in generating economic and exposure impact, provide the best customer experience and establish Orlando as the nation's premier neutral site/venue for sports events are ours for the taking.

At the Central Florida Partnership, we're looking for Steve Hogan to bring that same experience and excitement to our Leadership Orlando program beginning in March when he will serve as Chair of Class 85. For nearly two decades, Hogan has been a part of this unique economic driver in Central Florida and currently serves as Chair of the Football Bowl Association.

Florida Citrus Sports Association, Inc. and Florida Citrus Sports Events, Inc. were founded to organize, promote, and manage the best bowl games in America; to use these games to increase community spirit and pride; to promote tourism and stimulate local economic development and ultimately to benefit charities and educational institutions through the Florida Citrus Sports Foundation, Inc. Florida Citrus Sports Foundation, Inc. enhances the quality of life in Central Florida with its charitable contribution of resources to organizations dedicated to improving lives, health, and education in our community.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Leadership Orlando Focuses on Community Venues

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

With the downtown skyline as a backdrop, the members of Leadership Orlando Class 84 received a Project Hometown primer from Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer in the Fairwinds Tower Room at the Amway Center. Setting the stage for their session discussions on Thursday, Mayor Dyer praised the efforts of business leaders and elected officials who are making the Community Venues a reality for Central Florida.


Left: Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer. Right: Allen Johnson, Executive Director of Orlando Venues.

Building on successes like the Medical City and Amway Center, he is excited about the Creative Village, Florida Citrus Bowl renovations, and completion of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, all components of the Leadership Orlando Community Venues Session.

Presentations by Allen Johnson, Executive Director of Orlando Venues, Katherine Ramsberger, President of the Dr. Phillips Center, and Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, brought class members 'up to speed' on each of the Community Venues and their plans for the future, including funding challenges and the need for on-going community support for these projects. A new addition to the session, Phil Rawlins, President of Orlando City Soccer Club, provided perspective on the economic impact possibilities for this international sport in Central Florida.


Left: Katherine Ramsberger, President, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Right: Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports.

A tour of the state-of-the-art Amway Center took participants to the OZONE, private loge/club seating, Jernigan's Restaurant which overlooks the bowl/performance space, visitor locker rooms, Mercedes Benz Lounge and the Ritz Carlton Destination Club, viewing the Center from every angle.

After a quick bus ride to the Florida Citrus Bowl, Class 84 enjoyed lunch in the Dex Imaging Skyline Club, and toured the 'backstage' areas as well as the field and lower bowl seating. Class members were asked to familiarize themselves with the 24 inch bench seats in the lower bowl, a very tight squeeze for knees and backs, bringing home the need to upgrade the facility to modern standards so that our ranking as a preferred bowl game host community is not jeopardized ? nor is the nearly $80 million economic impact that comes with the annual bowl games.


Left: Phil Rawlins, President of Orlando City Soccer Club. Right: Leadership Orlando Class 84 at the Amway Center.

With a new appreciation for state-of-the-art versus status quo, the Leadership Orlando participants then traveled to the construction site of the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for a 'hard hat' tour. In the midst of construction cranes, rebar, and staging areas, they visualized how this massive structure on its nine-acre site will take its place in relation to the Downtown Orlando skyline.


Left: Leadership Orlando Class 84 at Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Right: Group of Leadership Orlando Class 84 on the field at Florida Citrus Bowl. Click here to view more photos. Click here to view more photos..

Class 85 begins in March , with Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, serving as Class Chair. The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed at www.LeadershipOrlando.org. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.Panter@ideastoresults.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

100 Year Gala Scheduled

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

The Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce, celebrating its Centennial in 2013, has a rich history of "community building" and being the leading "change agent" for our region. Its Vision today is, most likely, much the same as it was when it was established in 1913 as the Orlando Board of Trade.

Serving as a Civic Trustee for the Welfare of the Central Florida Region, the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce Champions Economic Prosperity and Quality of Life for All of Our Citizens and is Committed to Making our Region One of the "Top 5 Places" in the United States to Live, Work and Play.

It was with much pride and enthusiasm that a message was received on June 10, 2009, from Thomas J. Donohue, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber of Commerce of the United States of America, that the Accrediting Committee had, once again, approved its application and awarded a "Five Star" designation – the highest level of achievement possible, recognizing less than 1% of the 6,936 chambers of commerce in the country. Previously, the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce received "Five Star" Accreditation in 2003, and the five-year renewal process will next fall in the year 2014.

This year, as we celebrate our 100^th Anniversary, including "The 100 Year Gala" now scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2013, the opportunities are limitless and the recognition and reputation that has been gained during the last century by the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce will ensure our continued success for another 100 years.

Orlando, Inc.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Act Now to Reserve Your Place

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Central Florida's Regional Leaders will travel to our Nation's Capitol, March 13-14, 2013, to advance regional needs focused on Hospitality, Travel & Tourism, Research Funding, and Entrepreneurship to our Congressional Delegation.

The BakerHostetler Central Florida Partnership "Trip to Washington, D.C." will involve a Regional Traveling Team led by Regional Leaders. The Official Delegation will include: Frank C. Kruppenbacher, Chair and Phillip N. Brown, Executive Director, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority; John C. Hitt, Ph.D., President and Michael J. Grindstaff, Chair of the Board of Trustees, University of Central Florida; Leslie Hielema, President and Waymon J. Armstrong, Chair,Orlando, Inc.; Larry Henrichs, Chief Operating Officer and Paul S. Mears, III, Chair, Visit Orlando. Also included will be Jacob V. Stuart, President and Aaron J. Gorovitz, Chair of the Central Florida Partnership.


Shown in 2012: Frank DiBello, President, Space Florida; Host Sponsor Jeffrey Decker, BakerHostetler; and Florida Lieutenant Governor Jennifer Carroll, join with other participants in private meetings with members of Florida's Congressional Delegation. Washington, D. C., "after dark" offers spectacular views of the Viet Nam Memorial and Washington Monument.

As in years passed, the agenda will be developed around key regional themes that will be advanced to our Congressional Delegation. This year our themes include: Hospitality, Travel & Tourism - Changing policies and procedures to facilitate welcoming the world to Florida (and Orlando) with expedited, customer-focused visa and global entry procedures; Research Funding - The nation's future prosperity and economic competitive advantages will rest greatest on the ability of our universities and colleges to continue to provide the intellectual properties and disruptive discoveries that set America apart; and Entrepreneurship - Revitalize the engine of entrepreneurial innovation by tax, regulatory and other reforms that liberate job creation. Previously, discussions have centered on Aerospace Research & Development, as well as the Modeling, Simulation & Training industry cluster so important to Florida's Super Region.

We've confirmed Air Travel Reservations for forty (40) and Hotel Accommodations for fifty (50); since some of our Participants will already be in Washington, D.C. The "price" for the 2013 BakerHostetler Central Florida Partnership "Trip to Washington, D.C.," is $1,195 per person with a Special Rate available for Elected Officials of $995 (Prices include: Airfare "to-and-from" Washington, D.C., Overnight Accommodations, All Meals & Refreshments, Meeting Materials and Ground Transportation).

To reserve your seat on the BakerHostetler Central Florida Partnership "Trip to Washington, D.C.," just "click here."

Working together, through four lines of business ? Orlando, Inc. (Regional Entrepreneurship), BusinessForce (Regional Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership) ? the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

About the Central Florida Partnership
Click here to learn more about the Central Florida Partnership.
Click here for the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors.

Enrollment Underway - 2013 Leadership Orlando Schedule Online

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Developing regional leaders is important to the future success of the Central Florida Region. That is why "Regional Leadership" is a primary line of business for the Central Florida Partnership. With over thirty years of proven success, Leadership Orlando , America's largest "Community Leadership Program," continues to recruit, cultivate and encourage emerging and established leaders, to better serve the Central Florida Region.

Take a look at who attends Leadership Orlando: Mid to upper level managers and business owners from all sectors of our community who want to make an impact on our future. Leadership Orlando provides an opportunity to step outside one's traditional circle of influence, build relationships with other business leaders, and broaden your reach. Leaders in government, community-based organizations and education are also a part of the mix. Visit www.leadershiporlando.org for more.

If making yourself more valuable to your company and to your community is important to you, consider enrolling in Leadership Orlando. Our new curriculum provides more than an education about what's important to our region and helps cultivate your relationships too.

Builds both business and personal contacts.
Provides proven learning tools for business and community leaders.
For newcomers, it is a quick and complete orientation to the community.
Gets you connected and engaged!
Delivers high-energy learning through hands-on experiences.
Sessions are efficiently organized and professionally presented.
Your company will benefit, as well, from a proven leadership development program that helps expand your organization's scope and reach.
Increases community exposure and awareness.
Creates opportunities to market your company.
Develops employees, and improves retention.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Hielema Accepts New Opportunity

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0500

At last week's Board Meeting of Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce),Waymon J. Armstrong, Chair, announced that Leslie Hielema, President since November of 2008; has accepted an exciting new career opportunity and will join the leadership team at the Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), beginning January 1, 2013; when Ms. Hielema begin her work as Vice President for The Orlando Center of the Florida Institute of Technology, working directly with Anthony J. Catanese, Ph.D., President of the Florida Institute of Technology, and Founding Board Member of the Central Florida Partnership.

Along these lines, Ms. Hielema will continue her full-time duties and responsibilities as President of Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) until December 31, 2012, when I will assume the role as Interim President; working closely with Mr. Armstrong and, too, with the other Volunteer Members of the Board of Directors of Orlando, Inc.

During this time of transition; Vilma Quintana, Executive Vice President of Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce), will continue in her important leadership role, enjoying expanded duties beginning January 1, 2013. As a result, Ms. Quintana will be elevated to the Management Team, to better reflect her increased leadership role and additional responsibilities.

As a member of the Management Team; Ms. Quintana will join Kathy Panter, Vice President of Investor Relations for the Central Florida Partnership; effective January 1, 2013, who will assume a similar leadership role for Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce); along with Mike Ketchum, Vice President of Advocacy for Orlando, Inc., Scott Fagan, Director of Financial Services for the Central Florida Partnership, Kristine Vorpagel, Chief of Staff for the Central Florida Partnership, Ruth Mustian, Director of Communications for the Central Florida Partnership and "yours truly," all working together in support of our Volunteer Leaders and, too, working together to advance the important work of Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce); and the other "Lines of Business" of the Central Florida Partnership.

Since her very first day "on the job," Ms. Hielema has successfully worked to "transform" Orlando, Inc., to its new focus, "Connecting Entrepreneurs to Success." Under Ms. Hielema's leadership, the accomplishments of Orlando, Inc., are many, but there is much more work to be done; as a result, we're excited to honor Ms. Hielema's legacy of leadership by continuing to advance Florida's first ever Entrepreneurs Academy, the ongoing work associated with Central Florida's Entrepreneurs Ecosystem, and the extraordinary success of The B.I.G. (Business Innovation & Growth) Summit, held in 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012; which have earned a national reputation with entrepreneurs across America. While her career path is changing, her commitment to "Connecting Entrepreneurs to Success" is not; in her new leadership role, her talents, experiences and special skills will continue to serve the Central Florida Region.

For your added information, click here for a complete statement; which will serve as the "Official Announcement" when it comes to this important news regarding Orlando, Inc. Please join me in extending our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Hielema regarding this exciting change in her professional life, along with our sincere thanks for her special service "above and beyond the call of duty."

Tradition Continues - Annual Holiday Luncheon for Past Chairs

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0500

Honoring a long-standing tradition, Pat Engfer, 2009 Chamber Chair, hosted the Annual Luncheon of the Past Chairs of Orlando, Inc., (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) in the Chamber Boardroom on December 11, 2012.

2012-13 Chair, Waymon Armstrong, CEO of Engineering & Computer Simulations, looked forward with great anticipation to the planning and execution of next year's Centennial Celebration, marking the Chamber's 100^th Anniversary.

Armstrong provided an update on recent activities including the phenomenal success of the Entrepreneurs Ecosystem, the Entrepreneurs Academy and The B.I.G.* Summit, now in its fourth year, showcasing Business Innovation and Growth. All these efforts are focused on connecting entrepreneurs to key resources needed to innovate and grow their businesses.


Above left: Sherman S. Dantzler (1978), James C. Robinson, Jr. (1973), J. Blair Culpepper (1976). Above right: Roland M. Lee (1981), Thomas S. Heyward, Jr. (1986), Robert N. Blackford (1980), James B. Brown (1982), Hans W. Tews (1983), John O. Riggle (1989) Not Pictured: Frank Kruppenbacher (1987).

Above left: Jack G. Prevost (1995), James B. Cross (1996), Eddie Carpenter (1994), R. Van Bogan (1993), Tico Perez (1997), Frederick W. Leonhardt (1992) Not Pictured: Ed Timberlake, Jr. (1999). Above right: Lonnie C. Bell (2002), Martin Rubin (2010-11), William B. Wilson (2003), Waymon J. Armstrong (2012-13), Shari Sandifer (2014-2015), Ellen S. Titen (2001), Patricia J. Engfer (2009), Craig E. Polejes (2005), Wayne C. Wolfson (2004)

"Much has changed across Central Florida since the Orlando Regional Chamber was established a century ago, and in the four most recent decades that our Past Chairs served our community. We are fortunate that the vision and dedication of our volunteer leaders remains the same. Commitment, constancy, and the courage to take risks or to stay the course have guided us. They have brought us to where we are today, and are keeping a watchful eye on where we are headed," said Armstrong.

In what has become a tradition, these Chamber historians each took turns sharing stories and fond memories of their years of service to the organization. And, they are very proud to have been a part of it.


Click here to view more photos.

In attendance were:

James C. Robinson, Jr. (1973)

J. Blair Culpepper (1976)

Sherman S. Dantzler (1978)

Robert N. Blackford (1980)

Roland M. Lee (1981)

James B. Brown (1982)

Hans W. Tews (1983)

Thomas S. Heyward, Jr. (1986)

Frank Kruppenbacher (1987)

John O. Riggle (1989)

Frederick W. Leonhardt (1992)

R. Van Bogan (1993)

Eddie Carpenter (1994)

Jack G. Prevost (1995)

James B. Cross (1996)

Tico Perez (1997)

Ed Timberlake, Jr. (1999)

Ellen S. Titen (2001)

Lonnie C. Bell (2002)

William B. Wilson (2003)

Wayne C. Wolfson (2004)

Craig E. Polejes (2005)

Patricia J. Engfer (2009)

Martin Rubin (2010-11)

Waymon J. Armstrong (2012-13)

Shari Sandifer (2014-2015)

On behalf of our 2012 Chair, Waymon Armstrong, we extend our sincere appreciation to Pat Engfer for er friendship and generosity in hosting this annual holiday luncheon. This very special gathering was documented with photos as well as group photos, by decade of service. Click here for a photo gallery of the 2012 Past Chairs Luncheon.

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce)

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A "Five-Star Chamber" ? the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ? we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Leadership Orlando Redux -

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 17 Dec 2012 12:00:00 -0500

Many of our Leadership Orlando participants say it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But, it doesn't have to be. Just ask Ruth A. Patrick, President/CEO of the BETA Center, Inc., and Katie Miller Witter, Principal, Investment Advisor with Financial Harvest Wealth Advisors, who just completed the program for the second time.


Ruth A. Patrick	Katie Miller Witter

Ruth Patrick originally joined Class 35 when she was Development Director with the Citrus Council of Girl Scouts. Now, as the CEO of a local community-based organization, Ruth says,

"I participated in Leadership Orlando Class 35, graduating in May 1996. The opportunity to fast forward 16 years and have an amazing learning experience as part of Class 83 gave me a "refreshed" look at new lines of business, regional initiatives and partnerships, community leaders and priority areas that had arisen during a short but long 16 year span."

Along with her more recent classmate, Katie Witter, Ruth was "reminded that Central Florida leaders are an amazing group of men and women passionate about their community and making Central Florida an amazing place to live, play and work!"

Katie Miller Witter graduated from Class 60 when she was a Financial Consultant with CFSE Wealth Management, Inc. Now, nine years later, she found value not only in the updated curriculum, but also the fresh business contacts she has made with new classmates and program faculty.

"What an AWESOME experience ? again! Leadership is an opportunity to serve ? as I matured in my role as wealth advisor for Financial Harvest Wealth Advisors, I realized leadership must be learned and practiced, day after day," says Katie. "Leadership Orlando provides a landscape where that is possible, designing an agenda that is relevant, educational, interesting, energetic, stimulating and conducive to building relationships. I look forward to putting all of this new knowledge to work, and staying connected, at an even greater leadership level, within this wonderful community where we are so blessed to live."

If it's been a while since you participated in Leadership Orlando, now is indeed the perfect time to be a part of America's largest Community Leadership program, Leadership Orlando ? Again! Or, if know someone who should be in the room for these discussions, send them our way. Preparing for the future of our region is up to each of us. Now is the time to learn about the issues, participate in the community conversations that are helping to guide our future.

About Leadership Orlando

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Global Leader Extraordinaire - Rick Goings at Business Leadership Roundtable

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:00:00 -0500

It was an honor and privilege to hear from Rick Goings, CEO of Tupperware Brands. His is truly a local rock star. He has successfully led the growth of Tupperware's multi-billion dollar global portfolio, with much of that growth coming from emerging markets. Tupperware has been and continues to be a company that is changing people's lives through enlightening, educating, and empowering them to achieve their goals.



Tupperware CEO, Rick Goings, address a sell-out crowd at the Chamber of Commerce Building. Goings with event sponsor, Tara Crary, Corporate Marketing, Urban Trust Bank and Leslie Hielema, President of Orlando, Inc. Click here to view more photos from this event.

In many of the world's emerging markets, there are very limited earning opportunities for women. The company is leveraging a growing female sales force of over 2 million women in regions like China, India, Indonesia, the CIS, Latin America and South Africa. Training, financing and mentoring women can transform villages and entire countries from the inside out. Tupperware is leveraging this global desire of more and more young women to become entrepreneurs.

Rick encouraged us to focus on:

People: If you grow the people, they grow the business. Grow your leadership team from the inside.
Business Model: Every successful business model works until it doesn't so you need to continue to renew and refresh the model.
Competition: Be your own consultant using internal intelligence and know your competitive advantage.

Leaders need to create right operating landscape around the 4Fs: Be fast, focused, flexible and fun. You need to understand and have an appreciation for different personality style. Seek leaders with intellectual curiosity, ability to build trusting relationships, and that can see around the corners. Good relationships = Retention of good employees.

Remember people come to work for money, but would die for a cause.

Book Recommendations:

Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make Competition Irrelevant by W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne.
The Post-American World by Fareed Zakaria.

Passing the Gavel - Linda Landman Gonzalez Takes the Helm

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:00:00 -0500

At the Dec. 7^th BusinessForce Board of Directors meeting and its biennial "Passing of the Gavel" luncheon, Orlando Magic Vice President of Community Affairs and Governmental Affairs Linda Landman Gonzalez assumed the 2013-14 chairmanship of BusinessForce, the political action arm of the Central Florida Partnership.



Board Member William B. Wilson, Holland & Knight LLP, greets Linda Landman Gonzalez, with Jay Galtraith; Gonzalez with Aaron Gorovitz; New BusinessForce Chair addresses Board of Directors; and Board Member Carolyn Gosselin receives thanks from Galbraith. Click here to view more photos from this event.

The board meeting was presided over by outgoing 2011-12 BusinessForce Chair Jay Galbraith of SeaWorld who was presented the traditional Chairman's Gavel and saluted for his outstanding leadership during the challenging 2012 election cycle by Central Florida Partnership Chair-elect Aaron Gorovitz. In formally presenting Landman Gonzalez to the board as his choice to lead BusinessForce during the 2013-14 election cycle, Gorovitz praised her leadership skills and cited the widespread respect she commands for her deep community involvement.

During the luncheon a number of BusinessForce Board members received special recognition and service awards from Chair Galbraith. Retiring board member Dori Madison was honored with the Chair's Award for her service over 4 years as the Chair of the Central Florida Political Leadership Institute Screening Committee while board members John McReynolds, Mike Mitchell, Linda Landman Gonzalez, Craig Swygert, Carolyn Gosselin, Derek Bruce and Beth Thibodaux received service awards for their dedicated work in chairing various BusinessForce task forces and committees during the 2011-12 election cycle. Receiving the President's Award presented by BusinessForce President Mike Ketchum every 2 years was Craig Swygert whose extraordinary work and that of his Clear Channel Outdoor colleagues "above and beyond the call of duty" in direct support of certain BusinessForce-endorsed candidates over several recent election cycles was lauded by Ketchum.

To learn more about BusinessForce and how you can become involved visit www.orlando.org/businessforce or contact michael.ketchum@orlando.org.

Eyes on Modeling, Simulation & Training

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:00:00 -0500

The Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation & Education Conference (I/ITSEC) was the venue for our Leadership Orlando session on Thursday. The Members of Class 84 didn't have to travel far to participate in the largest modeling & simulation conference in the world because it was held right here in Central Florida at the Orange County Convention Center.

The Central Florida Region boasts the highest concentration of modeling, simulation and training related activities in the nation. We are home to the UCF's Institute for Simulation & Training, the National Center for Simulation, significant modeling and simulation activities for all four branches of the armed forces, and hundreds of entrepreneurs and emerging businesses who develop systems and technologies supporting a variety of industries including the military, government, healthcare, public service (firefighters and police), entertainment/attractions and the private sector.


Sharing their message with Class 84 were Central Florida Partnership Board Member, CAPT Steve "Snak" Nakagawa, Commanding Officer, Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division; Ron Smits, 2012 I/ITSEC Program Chair; and RADM Jim Robb, USN (Ret.), President, National Training and Simulation Association.

Class Members were greeted by 2012 I/ITSEC Program Chair, Ron Smits, Director of the Readiness & Training Solutions Division, DRC. Countries around the world were represented at the Conference which included 10 percent more exhibitors (550) than last year's show.

Presentations were made by senior executives/commanders representing the military, academia and the private sector including: Naval Air Warfare Center Training Systems Division (NAWCTSD), U. S. Army PEO STRI, U.S. Army Simulation & Training Technology Center, National Center for Simulation, UCF Institute for Simulation & Training, and local businesses: Lockheed Martin, i.d.e.a.s. and the Nicholson Center for Surgical Advancement at Florida Hospital.

RADM Jim Robb, USN (Ret.), President of the National Training and Simulation Association, focused on the importance of the MS&T Industry here in Central Florida, acknowledging that Central Florida is the epicenter for modeling, simulation & training worldwide.

Participants then had free time to explore the Conference Floor with full access to the extensive exhibit hall. Class Members had the chance to pilot (and sometimes crash) helicopters, shoot M16s, and enter virtual worlds to participate in ground assaults ? all in simulation, of course! Real life demonstrations of systems that translate to the private sector in the areas of healthcare, fire and EMT training and others showed Class Members how impactful these technologies are in our everyday lives.


Class Member John M. Lewis, Jr., CEO of LYNX, takes a turn in the cockpit and zeroes in on his target. LEGOS at I/ITSEC - Building a model satellite at Air Force Research Laboratory's La Luz Academy booth.

At times it was hard to distinguish the enthusiasm of the Leadership Orlando participants from that of the hundreds of high school students who were also in attendance to take advantage of the opportunity to test their skills on the latest in cutting-edge simulation technology. Exposure to these types of career opportunities will surely have a positive influence on future military personnel, engineers, scientists and technicians for years to come.

Leadership Orlando Class 84 saw not only the power of the MS&T Industry in our region, but also the unique asset that we have right here in Central Florida - the Orange County Convention Center ? showcasing our region to the world.

In summarizing the experience, Class Chair Adrian Jones, General Manager of LEGOLAND Florida, noted these take-aways:

The importance of MS&T and its economic impact on our region.
The incredible levels of technology used in peacekeeping around the world with America leading the way.
The 'willing suspension of disbelief' that makes simulation possible for training and the entertainment industry.
The power of storytelling; our brains are hardwired for stories.
The innovations in tele-surgery and robotic surgery that are changing healthcare delivery.
Why it's important to communicate with elected officials regarding potential Base Closure and Realignment (BRAC) Commission actions in 2015, which could threaten Central Florida's powerful economic base for MS&T.

The Class then departed for SeaWorld Orlando where they were briefed on the use of modeling and simulation in the entertainment/attractions industry. Gathering at SeaWorld's Ports of Call, the Class was welcome by Loren Bender, Vice President of Finance for SeaWorld, Discovery Cove & Aquatica, who also serves as a member of the Central Florida Partnership's Board of Directors.


Leadership Orlando Class Chair Adrian Jones with our afternoon hosts, SeaWorld's Loren Bender and Brian Nadeau. Talking with the Penguins is Class Member Cynthia A. Jantomaso, Deputy Director, Haines City Economic Development Council.

Brian Morrow, Creative Director for SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, and Michael Fletcher, Vice President of Entertainment for SeaWorld, Discovery Cove & Aquatica, provided glimpses of future projects and the vision and delivery of SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration. Following a private screening of the Polar Express attraction, class members were given access to enjoy the park.

Enrollment is currently underway for Class 85, scheduled to begin in March 2013, with Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports serving as Class Chair. Space is limited, so don't delay! The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed at www.leadershiporlando.org. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.panter@orlando.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Developing regional leaders is important to the future success of the Central Florida Region. That is why "Regional Leadership" is a primary line of business for the Central Florida Partnership. With over thirty years of proven success, Leadership Orlando, America's largest "Community Leadership Program," continues to encourage, cultivate and recruit emerging leaders to better serve the Central Florida Region.

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando

Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

U. S. Travel CEO Confirmed -

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:00:00 -0500

Roger J. Dow, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, will speak on March 14, 2013, at a breakfast meeting that is part of the BakerHostetler Central Florida Partnership "Trip to Washington, D.C."

The U.S. Travel Association is the national umbrella organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. that represents all segments of travel in America, an industry responsible for generating $1.9 trillion in economic output annually.

Special thanks to Larry Henrichs, Chief Operating Officer of Visit Orlando, who secured Mr. Dow for our program and serves on our Regional Planning Committee along with representatives from: the University of Central Florida, the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission, Florida High-Tech Council, the National Center for Simulation; Orlando, Inc., Visit Orlando, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, and the Central Florida Partnership. Also serving on the Planning Committee is Jeffrey E. Decker, representing our Host Sponsor, BakerHostetler.

The mission of U.S. Travel is to increase travel to and within the United States. It advocates the power of travel to leaders in government, provides authoritative travel research and analysis, and hosts annual signature events, including International Pow Wow, which generates more than $3.5 billion in future travel business to the United States.

Dow was instrumental in leading an industry-wide movement for creation of the Travel Promotion Act. This bipartisan legislation, signed into law by President Obama in March 2010, established the nation's first-ever communications and promotion program, known as Brand USA, which aims to increase international travel to the United States.

More recently, U.S. Travel has taken the lead in forming the Discover America Partnership, a consortium of some three dozen companies and associations interested in improving our nation's visa policies around the world, especially in the high-growth markets of Brazil, China and India. U.S. Travel is also working closely with the Administration and Congress to reduce domestic and international barriers to travel.

Globally, U.S. Travel has identified the tremendous economic and diplomatic opportunities that lay in welcoming more international travelers to the U.S. Reforming the visa and entry process have been and remain top priorities.

The BakerHostetler Central Florida Partnership "Trip to Washington, D.C." is scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, March 13 & 14, 2013; and will involve a Regional Traveling Team led by Regional Leaders. As in years passed, the agenda will be developed around key regional themes that will be advanced to our Congressional Delegation.

This year our themes, decided by the Regional Planning Committee, include: Hospitality, Travel & Tourism - Changing policies and procedures to facilitate welcoming the world to Florida (and Orlando) with expedited, customer-focused visa and global entry procedures; Research Funding - The nation's future prosperity and economic competitive advantages will rest greatest on the ability of our universities and colleges to continue to provide the intellectual properties and disruptive discoveries that set America apart; and Entrepreneurship - Revitalize the engine of entrepreneurial innovation by tax, regulatory and other reforms that liberate job creation. Previously, discussions have centered on Aerospace Research & Development, as well as the Modeling, Simulation & Training industry cluster so important to Florida's Super Region.

Space is limited; as a result, you are encouraged to make your reservations now so you will not be disappointed later. Along these lines, we've confirmed Air Travel Reservations for forty (40) and Hotel Accommodations for fifty (50); since some of our Participants will already be in Washington, D.C.

The "price" for the 2013 BakerHostetler Central Florida Partnership "Trip to Washington, D.C.," is $1,195 per person with a Special Rate available for Elected Officials of $995 (Prices include: Airfare "to-and-from" Washington, D.C., Overnight Accommodations, All Meals & Refreshments, Meeting Materials and Ground Transportation). To reserve your seat on the BakerHostetler Central Florida Partnership "Trip to Washington, D.C.," just "click here."

For additional Information, contact Lisa Winkelbauer at 407.835.2448 or lisa.winkelbauer@orlando.org.

About the Central Florida Partnership
Click here to learn more about the Central Florida Partnership.
Click here for the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors.

Welcome New Members

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:00:00 -0500

We are proud to welcome new members for November 2012 to Orlando, Inc. We encourage you to review the following listings to see if there are goods and services provided by these new members that would be of value to you and your business.

Business Partner

American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute
800 North Magnolia Avenue
Suite 300
Orlando, FL 32803-3261
Ms. Brenda Vazquez
Schools
Education Services

Coalfire
127 West Fairbanks Avenue
Winter Park, FL 32789-4326
Mr. Ron Frechette
IT Technology Consultants

Dramatic Learning, LLC
P.O. Box 781445
Orlando, FL 32878-1445
Ms. Chelsea Harris
Education Services

HostDime.com, Inc.
189 South Orange Avenue
Suite 1500
Orlando, FL 32801-3259
Ms. Vikki Fraser
Internet Services

REBUILD Globally
P.O. Box 540764
Orlando, FL 32854-0764
Ms. Julie Colombino
Organizations (Non-Profit)

Business Connections

Advanced Diversity Consulting
4744 Lumberton Drive
Orlando, FL 32817
Mr. Charles Polk
Consultants

Boston Market
4201 East Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32803-5215
Ms. Sharon Tillotson
Restaurants
Catering

LMF Soft
890 Grand Hughey Court
Apopka, FL 32712-4750
Mr. Joel M. Andres, Jr.
Computer (Software Development)

Roomba Inn & Suites
5840 West Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway
Kissimmee, FL 34746-4718
Ms. Tina Nguyen
Hotel and Resort (Amenities)

Business Basic

ARCpoint Labs, Orlando-Central
709 East Michigan Street
Orlando, FL 32806
Mr. Tracy Watkins
Medical Laboratories and Blood Banks

Basati, LLC
1579 Lake Baldwin Lane
Unit A
Orlando, FL 32814-6698
Mr. Tim Smith
Computer Technology Solutions

ConferenceDirect
1704 Bimini Drive
Orlando, FL 32806-1514
Ms. Susan Henderson
Conference Services

Firestone Complete Auto Care/Winter Park
7727 University Boulevard
Winter Park, FL 32792-8812
Mr. Darrel Pedraza
Automobile (Service/Repair)

Hotto Potto
3090 Aloma Avenue
Suite 150
Winter Park, FL 32792-3744
Ms. Aidi Huang
Restaurants

Indian River Queen & Island Boat Lines
90 Delannoy Avenue
Cocoa, FL 32922
Ms. Penny Flaherty
Wedding Services
Cruises

Lindt Chocolates
15577 South Apopka Vineland Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32821-5604
Ms. Amber Munnelly
Chocolates

Middleton Strategies, LLC
4327 South Highway 27
Suite 414
Clermont, FL 34711-5349
Mr. Lawrence C. Smith
Business Management (Financial Consultant)

MSR Holdings, Inc.
500 State Road 436
Suite 2016
Casselberry, FL 32707-5338
Mr. Sachin Gaya
Real Estate (Investment)

The Parking Spot
5500 Hazeltine National Drive
Orlando, FL 32812-9007
Ms. Jessica Grose
Parking Stations and Garages

Vesta Teleradiology
801 International Parkway
5th Floor
Lake Mary, FL 32746
Mr. Vijay Vonguru
Healthcare Services

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce)

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A ?Five-Star Chamber? ? the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ? we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region. Working together with BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership), the Central Florida Partnership is moving ?Ideas to Results.?

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Join the A-Team! - Tradition Continues with Leadership Orlando

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 03 Dec 2012 11:00:00 -0500

Leadership Orlando graduates all around Central Florida are invited to Join the A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association) to take advantage of continuing opportunities to engage.

Leaders act quickly when opportunities arise. Just ask these Leadership Orlando graduates who were the first to renew their membership on the A-Team for 2013. Their participation in Leadership Orlando spans nearly three decades and a variety of industry sectors, and we appreciate their continued confidence in our work!

Class 13	Stephen Gauthier	Rollins College Crummer Graduate School of Business
Class 27	R. Van Bogan	Florida Bank of Commerce
Class 31	Paul H. Chipok	GrayRobinson, P.A.
Class 55	Karen J. Jensen	Orlando Health
Class 67	Melanie Becker	CenturyLink
Class 69	Frank A. Coe	Florida Community Bank
Class 73	Karen T. Busch	Orange County Sheriff's Office
Class 82	Nicola Bailey	CBC of Central Florida
Class 82	Jeffrey S. Hardin	McGladrey
Class 83	Eugene F. Lozano	England, Thims & Miller, Inc.

Sharing our excitement and pride with the A-Team, we have showcased many of the region's strategic priorities that are part of today'sLeadership Orlando curriculum including updates on Modeling, Simulation & Training, Aerospace, and the Medical City at Lake Nona. From SunRail to the speedway at Daytona, and from the Spaceport to our newest regional asset - LEGOLAND Florida, we are exploring Florida's Super Region like never before.

It's been a busy year for our A-Team, with many opportunities to connect with peers and pertinent information on Florida's Super Region. Special Alumni Invitations have centered on political activities, the economy and technology; updates were provided on regional networks and statewide strategic direction; connections with current Leadership Orlando participants have provided social networking as well as intellectual enhancement.

In the year ahead, we will uphold our 38-year tradition of building our community by building regional leadership. Make no mistake; our efforts are made possible because of the continued confidence and financial support of our graduates who are, once again, invited to join us!

As we look to the challenges ahead, we hope our Alumni will click here to Renew Their Membership and Stay Connected. It's easy to be part of the action!

To print an invoice for the 2013 A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association), click here.

For the more traditional route, click here to receive a 2013 Leadership Alumni Membership Invoice via the U. S. Mail. Or, call Liz Froebig with your questions at 407.835.2494.

With very few exceptions, communiques to the A-Team are sent electronically. Graduates are encouraged to update their contact information, including email address, so our messages will be received on a timely basis.

If you know someone who's been looking for the "right" time to participate in Leadership Orlando, now is indeed the perfect time to be a part of America's largest Community Leadership program, Leadership Orlando. Preparing for the future of our region is up to each of us. Now is the time to learn about the issues, participate in the difficult conversations and help in guiding our future.

Enrollment is underway for Class 85, scheduled to begin in March 2013, with Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, serving as Class Chair. Space is limited, so don't delay! The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed atwww.leadershiporlando.org. Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.Panter@ideastoresults.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Developing regional leaders is important to the future success of the Central Florida Region. That is why "Regional Leadership" is a primary line of business for the Central Florida Partnership. With over thirty years of proven success, Leadership Orlando, America's largest "Community Leadership Program," continues to recruit, cultivate and encourage established and emerging leaders to better serve the Central Florida Region.

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando

Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

FORWARD Florida Moves Ahead

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

Roughly 18 months since debuting, FORWARD Florida magazine is still moving, well, forward. Only this time with a new, sharpened approach.

For those unfamiliar, FORWARD Florida is a bi-monthly business magazine published in cooperation with the Central Florida Partnership and Tampa Bay Partnership. Uniquely, the magazine covers both markets?a 14-county area promoted as Florida's Super Region. The magazine is pro-business, pro-entrepreneurship and pro-economic development. Distribution involves direct-mail to high C-level executives, along with legislators and civic and community leaders, across the 14 counties. The magazine is complemented by a website environment (www.forwardflorida.com) that goes beyond the print version in both messaging and reach.

The mission of magazine is to tout the Super Region's existing business and community strengths and assets, as well as its potential prowess, with a special focus on effective growth, economic development and business excellence.

While that mission has remained largely unchanged, and popular sections such as COPY DESK and COUNTY BY COUNTY continue, the magazine now is actively seeking Publishing Partners to share their perspectives and industry expertise about the Super Region. The new Publishing Partnerships are designed to feature key stakeholders across the region in major industry sectors. Among those sectors are Education, Technology, Environment, Banking, Finance/Accounting, Utilities, Transportation/Logistics, Law and Health/Wellness.

"Basically, as the 'Voice of Florida's Super Region,' the magazine is establishing Publishing Partnerships that provide leading companies and organizations a non-promotional editorial voice to help others in the same pursuit of excellence," comments Publisher Kevin O'Neil. "Not only do we believe in regionalism?Super Regionalism?but we believe in the old saying, 'A rising tide lifts all boats.'"

The Partnerships consist of versatile packages of multi-platform (print and web) editorial and marketing considerations that both increase visibility and position expertise within each topic area, O'Neil explains. In turn, that non-promotional editorial voice can effectively position the company/organization as a chief thought leader/industry expert in a specific sector. The opportunities are limited and separated by industry sector, he adds, with the leaders/experts built directly into the architecture of the magazine via the name of a dedicated magazine "department." (Examples: www.forwardflorida.com/2012/11/made-with-resilience/ and www.forwardflorida.com/2012/09/customer-loyalty)

Jacob V. Stuart, president of the Central Florida Partnership, endorses the idea as a way to effectively highlight assets, achievements and expertise across the Super Region.

"This editorial approach allows key stakeholders to share their insights and perspectives on important issues, initiatives and trends within their industry in a well-written and attractively designed format," he says.

For more information please contact Kevin O'Neil at 407-340-2568 or email at kevino@forwardflorida.com.

Building Leaders - Leadership Alumni Remain Part of the Action

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

It's been a busy year for our A-Team (2012 Leadership Alumni Association), with many opportunities to connect with peers and pertinent information on Florida's Super Region. Special Alumni Invitations have centered on political activities, the economy and technology; updates were provided on regional priorities and statewide strategic direction; connections with Leadership Orlando participants provided social networking as well as intellectual enhancement.

All Alumni "of record" recently received membership renewal information in the mail and an invoice for 2013. Those who opt to make a voluntary donation to the Alumni Scholarship Fund will receive a Leadership Orlando polo shirt. Information is also available on our website .

As we look to the challenges ahead, we hope our Alumni will click here to Renew Their Membership and Stay Connected. It's easy to be part of the action!

To print an invoice for the 2013 A-Team (2013 Leadership Alumni Association), click here.

For the more traditional route, click here to receive a 2013 Leadership Alumni Membership Invoice via the U. S. Mail. Or, call Liz Froebig with your questions at 407.835.2494.

With very few exceptions, communiqus to the A-Team are sent electronically. Graduates are encouraged to update their contact information, including email address, so our messages will be received on a timely basis.

About Leadership Orlando

Developing regional leaders is important to the future success of the Central Florida Region. That is why "Regional Leadership" is a primary line of business for the Central Florida Partnership. With over thirty years of proven success, Leadership Orlando, America's largest "Community Leadership Program," continues to recruit, cultivate and encourage established and emerging leaders to better serve the Central Florida Region.

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando

Click here for a listing of the 2013 Leadership Team

Shelley Lauten to Step Down

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

With an extreme amount of pride, encouragement and affection, Jacob V. Stuart, President of the Central Florida Partnership, and George W. Walton, P.E., Vice President/Area Manager of Parsons Brinckerhoff and Chair of myregion.org, have announced that Shelley Lauten will step down as President of myregion.org effective December 31, 2012.

"As a Line of Business of the Central Florida Partnership, myregion.org has enjoyed success and recognition at the regional, state, and national levels due in no small part to the efforts of Shelley Lauten," said Jacob Stuart in making the announcement to the Partnership's Board of Directors. "Shelley played a leadership role that was untested and remains unmatched in guiding regional collaboration and has made a name for herself over the last decade as one of the premier experts in this field and for myregion.org as a model for regional development programs."

In advancing her next career step, Ms. Lauten plans to launch a new company beginning in 2013; one focused on civic change and innovation. When her full-time duties and responsibilities as President of myregion.org conclude at the end of this year, Jacob V. Stuart will also assume the role as Interim President of myregion.org.

Beginning in 2013, in her new role, Ms. Lauten will serve as an independent consultant to myregion.org; allowing her to pursue her new business venture, while still maintaining her longstanding "connection" and professional leadership role with myregion.org.

Through the transition and into 2013, George W. Walton, P.E., Chair of the Executive Board of Advisors of myregion.org, will continue in his volunteer leadership role, as will the thirty-seven volunteer members of the Executive Board of Advisors of myregion.org.

"Shelley's leadership has made Central Florida a better place to live, work and play," said Walton. "Her efforts have gained national recognition which, in turn, presented professional growth opportunities. While Shelley will be helping other communities advance, there is no doubt her heart and passion remain here and will continue to be part of our continued excellence."

From its beginning, Shelley Lauten has served myregion.org; first as Project Director, and most recently as President, since the creation of the Central Florida Partnership. Her special service and extraordinary talents have been recognized across the Central Florida Region, across the State of Florida and across the United States. Her work has inspired many and continues to motivate civic, business, and government leaders; encouraging regional cooperation and regional collaboration.

"Speaking for the Board of Directors of the Central Florida Partnership, we are very happy for Shelley as she undertakes the challenge of starting a new business," says Jeffery Q. Jonasen, Chair of the Central Florida Partnership and Partner with Perez, Bruce & Jonasen LLP. "Her leadership of myregion.org and her other work for the Partnership have contributed greatly to our success and provided tangible and significant benefits to the Central Florida region. We are grateful that Shelley will continue to work with us in her new consulting role, and we look forward to collaborating with her on future initiatives for the benefit of our region."

As a point of information, Ms. Lauten first worked with Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce), as a Lead Consultant on WorkForce 2020. This nationally recognized regional effort produced a powerful and positive partnership with WorkForce Florida and WorkForce Central Florida; and successfully created innovative new ways to engage the business community in support of our state and regional workforce delivery systems. WorkForce 2020 was so successful; it was replicated in five (5) other communities across Florida and in ten (10) cities across the United States.

Following WorkForce 2020, Ms. Lauten was invited to continue her leadership role at Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce), by helping to develop a new concept of how we could better connect communities across the Central Florida Region. The resulting program was myregion.org, which was launched in 2000, and has enjoyed enormous success over the last twelve (12) years:

The work of myregion.org's "How Shall We Grow?" was used as the foundation of the recently adopted East Central Florida 2060 Plan authored by the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council in August of 2011. The goals of this plan are to inform and guide local decision-making in a manner that leads toward the implementation of the Central Florida Regional Vision, a "product" of myregion.org.
"How Shall We Grow?" also resulted in the creation of the Regional Growth Compact, adopted on August 10, 2007. A continual source of inspiration and reference tool for the Central Florida Congress of Regional Leaders , the compact focuses on the 4Cs ? Conservation, Countryside, Centers and Corridors.
In August 2010, the Alliance for Regional Stewardship (ARS) and the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) recognized myregion.org as its first recipient of the "Ten Award" for Distinguished Achievement in Sustained Stewardship. The ARS established the "Ten Award" to recognize organizations that demonstrate "ambitious and steadfast advancement of regional stewardship over of a period of at least 10 years."
Most recently in September 2012, myregion.org launched the Central Florida Scorecard; designed to align with the Florida Scorecard, created by the Florida Chamber Foundation. The Central Florida Scorecard is the first of its kind in Florida.
Click here for an expanded listing of myregion.org highlights.

In many ways, Ms. Lauten has served as a "civic architect," helping our "family of communities" learn a new model of civic engagement. Her persistency of focus has helped Central Florida "lead the way" in many ground-breaking "civic solutions," designed to serve the needs of the Twenty-First Century.

Under Ms. Lauten's leadership, the accomplishments of myregion.org are many, but there is more to be done. As a result, Ms. Lauten will continue to work as an independent consultant, engaged with both myregion.org and the Central Florida Partnership on a variety of projects. While her role will be changing, her commitment to Central Florida will not; accordingly, her talents and leadership will continue to serve the Central Florida Region.

myregion.org is one of four lines of business by which the Central Florida Partnership focuses on "Regional Research and Resolves." By identifying and examining the changing demographics and powerful trends that are shaping the Central Florida Region ? myregion.org is helping to identify the issues and challenges that affect our future.

Working together with Orlando, Inc., (Regional Entrepreneurship), BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership), the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

About myregion.org
Click here to learn more about myregion.org.
Click here for the myregion.org Executive Board of Advisors.

BusinessForce Scores Wins In Tough Redistricting Year

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

In the Nov. 6^th general election, BusinessForce engaged in 25 races for state and local offices in the region. BusinessForce-endorsed candidates were elected in 18 of the races and were defeated in 5 races. Two of the races were still undecided at press time with vote recounts pending. In one of the recounts, the political fate of future House Speaker and Chair of the Central Florida Legislative Delegation Rep. Chris Dorworth (R-Heathrow) hangs in the balance.

While there were a number of important wins in the legislative races, particularly in the Senate with the election of several pro-business senators in the region, three of the BusinessForce defeats were suffered in "high priority" legislative races in the Orlando area where redistricting, changing demographics and a heavy presidential year voter turnout significantly influenced the outcome. As a result, the legislative delegations from Orange and Seminole Counties will be significantly transformed from their current composition.

In regional County Commission races, two wins both in Seminole and Osceola Counties were offset by a loss in an Osceola County race..A recount is pending in the lone Orange County race where the BusinessForce-endorsed candidate trails.

Finally, in the remaining Orange County School Board race, the BusinessForce- endorsed challenger defeated the incumbent board member.

Three Political Leadership Institute graduates appeared on the Nov. 6^th ballot with Scott Sturgill successful in his race for Seminole County Soil and Water Conservation District while Edythe Shelley and Dave Scherer lost their respective bids for Daytona Beach Mayor and Kissimmee City Commissioner.

A summary of the Nov. 6^th general election results for BusinessForce-endorsed candidates is as follows:

REGIONAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION

Florida Senate

Senate Dist. 8 ? Rep. Dorothy Hukill (R) Won

Senate Dist. 10 ? Sen. David Simmons (R) Won

Senate Dist. 11 ? Sen. Alan Hays (R) Won

Senate Dist. 12 ? Rep. Geraldine Thompson (D) Won

Senate Dist. 13 ? Sen. Andy Gardiner (R) Won

Senate Dist. 14 ? Rep. Darren Soto (D) Won

Senate Dist. 15 ? Rep. Kelli Stargel R) Won

Senate Dist. 16 ? Sen. Thad Altman (R) Won

Florida House

House Dist. 27 ? David Santiago (R) Won

House Dist. 28 ? Rep. Jason Brodeur (R) Won

House Dist. 29 ? Rep. Chris Dorworth (R) Recount pending

House Dist. 30 ? Rep. Scott Plakon (R) Lost

House Dist. 40 ? Rep. Seth McKeel (R) Won

House Dist. 41 ? Rep. John Wood (R) Won

House Dist. 43 ? Commissioner Art Otero (R) Lost

House Dist. 47 ? Dr. Bob Brooks (R) Lost

House Dist. 49 ? Marco Pena (R)** Lost

House Dist. 50 ? Rep. Tom Goodson (R) Won

REGIONAL COUNTY COMMISSIONS

Endorsed Orange County Candidate

Dist. 3 ? Lui Damiani Recount pending

Endorsed Osceola County Candidate

Dist. 1 ? Paul Owen (R) Lost

Dist. 3 ? Commissioner Brandon Arrington (D) Won

Dist. 5 ? Commissioner Fred Hawkins, Jr. (R) Won

Endorsed Seminole County Candidate

Dist. 3 ? Lee Constantine (R) Won

Dist. 5 ? Commissioner Brenda Carey (R) Won

ORANGE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD

Endorsed Orange County Candidate

Dist. 4 ? Pam Gould Won

And the Winner Is - The B.I.G.* Awards Presented at Summit

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

The 2012 B.I.G.* Awards, held in conjunction with The B.I.G.* Summit on November 8, provided an opportunity for entrepreneurs to tell the world about their entrepreneurial journey, their culture or their brand. Video entries were evaluated by a panel of Judges, with the potential to win BIG prizes & B.I.G.* exposure.

"Every entrepreneur has a story: how you got where you are today, what values and philosophies shaped your company's brand, and who was there to support your vision along the way," says Leslie Hielema, President of Orlando, Inc.


Above left: Dramatic Learning LLC team members accept their People's Choice Award. Above right: A REBUILD Globall team member accepts their Judges's Choice Award.

The Judges' Choice winner is the one that creates the best emotional connection. Like any good story, the Judges were looking for stories that have elements like plot, setting, characters, emotion and conflict. The Judges included a panel of select Central Florida entrepreneurs who are building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses.

The People's Choice award winner was determined through an online voting mechanism on the The B.I.G.* Award website, www.bigaward.org.

Presented at The B.I.G.* Summit, the following Winners were showcased:

PEOPLE'S CHOICE AWARD ? Dramatic Learning LLC
Dramatic Education, now in its sixth year in Orange County Public Schools, is the only educational arts program that combines academics with the arts and has been directly responsible for over 1,800 student experiences in the arts. We bring the Arts to the school setting and equip our students with the skills that are needed to be successful both inside and outside of the classroom.

JUDGES' CHOICE AWARD ? REBUILD Globally
REBUILD globally co-founders, Julie Colombino and Sandra Fernandez tell the true story of how transforming discarded tires from the streets of Haiti into recycled tire sandals transforms lives in both a devastated developing country and the City Beautiful.

To view their winning videos, as well as the prizes they received, visit www.bigaward.org. Also take a look at all of the video submissions. Special thanks to all who participated.

Orlando, Inc.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

B.I.G. Summit a Resounding Success

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 12 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

Orlando, Inc., welcomed 500 business and community leaders, entrepreneurs, and Leadership Orlando Class 84, to The B.I.G.* Summit, presented at Full Sail Live on Thursday. The outstanding presentations included keynote speaker, Jeremy Gutsche, Founder of TrendHunter.com; Jessica Jackley, Founder of Kiva; Jayson Whitmore, Co-Founder of Royale; and Brian Meece, CEO of Rockethub, as well as presentations of The B.I.G.* Awards.


Above left: Orlando, Inc. President Leslie Hielema. Above right: Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer.

"This powerful day of learning and idea sharing, discussing new opportunities and forging new business relationships is about building a strong and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem right here in our region," said Leslie Hielema, President of Orlando, Inc. "The B.I.G.* Summit has become the premier event for entrepreneurs and business leaders across Central Florida."

Topics covered everything from trends in crowd funding to the use of technology in culture, ads, design, social good and more. In sharing her life journey, Jessica Jackley, Founder of Kiva, built her microlending website in response to her mission to alleviate poverty. "Of the people I met along the way, I saw full hands offering me what they had, not empty hands waiting for me to fill them," said Jackley. "Know yourself first, listen to others, and then co-create solutions that will succeed."


Above left: Jessica Jackley, Founder of Kiva speaks at The B.I.G.* Summit. Above right: Atendees tour the Sponsor Village.

Above left: Waymon Armstrong Founder and President of Engineering and Computer Simulations, Inc and Chair of Orlando, Inc..

Jeremy Gutsche, Founder of TrendHunter.com, energized the crowd with a lively presentation on how to unlock the power of the latest trends for your business. "Cool is unique, cutting-edge, and viral," said Gutsche, citing many examples of companies who take risks to stay ahead, and those who have failed because they stayed in their comfort zone. "Culture eats strategy for breakfast," he continued. "Chaos equals opportunity."


Above left: Brian Meece, CEO of Rockethub. Above right: Jeremy Gutsche, Founder of TrendHunter.co.

As part of their eight-month program, the members of Leadership Orlando Class 84 participated in The B.I.G.* Summit to learn more about the strong entrepreneurial cluster that is based in the Orlando Economic Center. Exclusive only to Leadership Orlando class members was a private luncheon session with Summit Speaker Bret Lockett, former NFL New England Patriot, model, recording artist and entrepreneur. He is a partner in Mobli, a technology and social media company, and works closely with organizations like "Looking Forward" and the NOH8 Campaign.


Above left: A panel on Mobile Business Trends including Carol Cox, InterMedia Solutions; Jody Haneke, Haneke Design; and Bret Lockett, Mobli; was moderated by Joshua Johnson, Learn Everywhere. Above right: Bret Lockett speaks at a private event to members of Leadership Orlando Class 84. Click here to view more photos from this event.

Building on its successful track record, The B.I.G.* Summit reached new heights in education, entertainment and engagement for entrepreneurs across Central Florida, and showcased to the "sold out" crowd the state-of-the-art campus of Full Sail University which has built a reputation as one of the premier art, music, and film schools in the world. Where better to showcase the creativity and innovation of entrepreneurs right here in our region!

It is with sincere appreciation that we thank our sponsors who have made this event possible.

*Business Innovation & Growth

Orlando, Inc.
Orlando, Inc., is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A ?Five-Star Chamber? ? the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ? we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

2012 Legislative Races - BusinessForce Team Faces Voters Tomorrow

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

Rep. Chris Dorworth (R)
House District 29

Dr. Robert Brooks (R)
House District 47

Rep. Scott Plakon (R)
House District 30

Pam Gould
District 4

Two dozen regional candidates for legislative, county commission and school board seats who have been endorsed by BusinessForce, the political action arm of the Central Florida Partnership, will face the voters in tomorrow's general election. "This is an outstanding team of candidates from both political parties who are deserving of strong business community support at the polls on Election Day," said BusinessForce President Mike Ketchum. Within this group, BusinessForce has targeted five high priority races appearing on the ballot to receive additional resources from BusinessForce in the days leading up to the Nov. 6^th election.

Heading the list are the races featuring the Chairman of the Central Florida Legislative Delegation Rep. Chris Dorworth (R-Heathrow) along with Rep. Scott Plakon (R-Altamonte Springs), Dr. Bob Brooks (R-Orlando) and Marco Pena (R-Orlando) who each hope to be seated in the legislative delegation.

"With the prospect that these four delegation seats could be captured by opponents who have clearly demonstrated they will be responsive to the special interests in Tallahassee who are not supporters of the free enterprise system and who would seek to turn the clock back on the recent strides made to improve Florida's business climate, last week BusinessForce took steps to double down in its campaign support for each of these individuals," said BusinessForce President Mike Ketchum.

In Orange County, BusinessForce-backed Pam Gould, a respected community and business leader who is seeking to oust a one term incumbent from the Orange County School Board and was the top vote-getter in the Aug. 14^th primary election, too has become a BusinessForce priority. "With Pam Gould's election, West Orange County will have an effective member of the School Board who will join with the other re-elected BusinessForce-endorsed incumbents, Nancy Robbinson and Christine Curtis, to insure Orange County Public Schools continue their forward progress."

To learn more about who else BusinessForce has endorsed this election year and how you can become involved in BusinessForce, visitwww.orlando.org/businessforce or contact michael.ketchum@orlando.org.

Entrepreneurs Ecosystem Workshop - Creating Your Roadmap to Growth

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

Leslie Hielema, President of Orlando, Inc., will reserve the third Monday of every month to informally meet with entrepreneurs who want to accelerate their business growth to share with them the rich set of resources available in the Orlando economic center, also known as our Entrepreneurs Ecosystem.

Mark your calendar to attend an Entrepreneurs Ecosystem Workshop. Everyone is welcome, there is no charge to attend and no appointment is necessary!

Orlando, Inc.
Entrepreneurs Ecosystem Workshop
Monday, November 19, 2012
9:00 ? 10:00 a.m.
Chamber of Commerce Building
75 South Ivanhoe Boulevard, Downtown Orlando
No appointment necessary
(Click for Map)

Come learn who represents the elements of our Entrepreneurs Ecosystem: Advocates, Entrepreneurial Educators, Funding Sources, Professional Services, Recognition, Resource Providers, Sources of Innovation, and Talent. All of them focused on helping you take your business to the next level.

For more information, please contact Vilma Quintana at 407.835.2520 or vilma.quintana@orlando.org

Welcome New Members

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 11:00:00 -0500

We are proud to welcome new members for October 2012 to Orlando, Inc. We encourage you to review the following listings to see if there are goods and services provided by these new members that would be of value to you and your business.

Business Partner

HMSHost
9301 Jeff Faqua Boulevard
Orlando, FL 32827
Ms. Vicky D'Angelo
Concessionaires

Strayer University
850 Trafalgar Circle
Suite 360
Maitland, FL 32751-4164
Ms. Jackie Zumaeta
Colleges and Universities

The Orlando Bridge, Inc.
2025 Mercy Drive
Orlando, FL 32808-5613
Ms. Lisha Hayes
Employment Agencies/Services

Walton Lantaff
Schroeder & Carson LLP
200 South Orange Avenue
Suite 1575
Orlando, FL 32801
Mr. Robert Freschlin
Attorneys

Business Connections

Bouchard Insurance
222 Church Street
Kissimmee, FL 34741-5057
Ms. JoAnne Sadler
Insurance Brokerage

Orlando Science Schools
2427 Lynx Lane
Orlando, FL 32804-4720
Mr. Yalcin Akin
Schools

Worldwide Resort
Exchange, LLC
927 Fern Street
Suite 2300
Altamonte Springs, FL 32701-2733
Mr. Timothy Kaltenbach
Timeshares (Resales)

Business Basic

407Apartments.com
618 East South Street
Suite 500
Orlando, FL 32801-2986
Mr. Pete Zimek
Apartments

Burger 21
4192 Conroy Road
Suite 109
Orlando, FL 32839-6417
Ms. Mary Alison Saller
Restaurants

East Orlando Dental
11780 East Colonial Drive
Orlando, FL 32817-4626
Dr. Karim Morales
Dentistry (Cosmetic)

Iron Lion Insurance
1000 North Magnolia Avenue
Orlando, FL 32803
Mr. Maurice Campbell
Insurance (Auto/Home)
Insurance (Property and Casualty)

Kratos Defense
8601 Transport Drive
Orlando, FL 32832-7102
Ms. Melanie Van Pelt
Government
Homeland Defense

Kreps DeMaria, Inc.
11 North Summerlin Avenue
Suite 265-B
Orlando, FL 32801-2971
Mr. Israel Kreps
Public Relations Services

New York Life
Insurance Company
495 North Keller Road
Suite 150
Maitland, FL 32751-8658
Mr. Allan See
Insurance

The Network
Support Company
3840 West Eau Gallie Boulevard
Suite 103
Melbourne, FL 32934
Mr. Kevin Hooper
Computer (Consultants)

Transcendent Management Group
5728 Major Boulevard
Suite 180
Orlando, FL 32819-7938
Mr. Gifford Bullen
Financial (Consultants/Planners/Services)

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce)

Orlando, Inc. (Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce) is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A ?Five-Star Chamber? ? the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ? we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region. Working together with BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando (Regional Leadership), the Central Florida Partnership is moving ?Ideas to Results.?

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Hurricane Sandy Recovery Starts Today

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Recovery starts today

Hurricane Sandy may have moved on ? but millions are without power, transportation systems are crippled, more flooding is expected and your help is urgently needed.

Yesterday, thousands of people like you answered our calls for help with an outpouring of support, and we?re so grateful. Thanks to you, we have been able to shelter almost 11,000 people in more than 250 Red Cross emergency shelters, serve more than 25,000 meals and snacks, and mobilize more than 1,700 trained disaster responders to support relief efforts in affected areas across 16 states.

Your generosity made a huge difference. Here are just a few images of how your support helped people survive the worst of the storm:

But we still need your help. Please make a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief to support communities as they rebuild from devastation caused by disasters like Hurricane Sandy. Many families will return home in the next few days only to find their homes completely uninhabitable. They?ll need supplies to clean up their homes, a place to sleep at night while their roofs and windows are repaired, and food and water to keep them going until power is restored to their neighborhoods. They?ll need you.

Recovery takes time ? and it takes commitment, not only from those affected by disaster, but also from those who are willing to give it their all and help. Make a gift to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief now and stand with families affected by disasters like Hurricane Sandy as they rebuild and recover, every step of the way.

Thank you so much for being a part of our Red Cross community ? I know we can always count on you to help a neighbor in need.

Sincerely,

Gail McGovern
President and CEO, American Red Cross

P.S. You can give back every day of the year with a monthly donation. Become a Red Cross Champion today and help us to be ready to respond to those in need ? down the street, across the country and around the world.

Update: Hurricane Sandy relief

BusinessForce "Insider's Briefing" - Boosts House Candidates In Top Priority Races

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 11:00:00 -0400

BusinessForce, the political action arm of the Central Florida Partnership, hosted a special BusinessForce "Insider's Briefing" luncheon on Oct. 25th boosting the legislative candidacies of Dr. Bob Brooks, Marco Pena and Rep. Scott Plakon. All are seeking seats in the Central Florida Legislative Delegation in newly drawn, highly competitive districts that have been targeted by BusinessForce as "high priority, must win" races in 2012.



Click here to view more photos from this event.

Introducing and presenting the three candidates to BusinessForce members and their invited guests was BusinessForce Chair Jay Galbraith who praised the qualifications and credentials of each to hold public office. Each candidate expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of strong support for their campaigns from the business community and then provided an update on the current status and outlook for their respective races which are among the tightest and most hotly contested in the state.

BusinessForce President Mike Ketchum concluded the luncheon by stressing the importance of electing the three candidates in order to keep our legislative delegation a pro-business one and encouraged those present to redouble their efforts in the community between now and Election Day to insure that Brooks, Pena and Plakon are elected. He went on to remind attendees of their opponent's position on the proposed paid sick leave mandate in Orange County vehemently opposed by the Central Florida Partnership and the business community stating, "Their opponents, who are being supported by Occupy Orlando leaders and their paid sick leave advocate allies, either supported this costly new governmental mandate or supported holding a vote on the proposed referendum despite its containing ballot language which the referendum proponents openly admitted was inaccurate, misleading and deceptive."

To learn more about who else BusinessForce has endorsed this election year and how you can become involved in BusinessForce, visit www.orlando.org/businessforce or contact michael.ketchum@orlando.org.

Video Deadline Extended - $60,000 in Prizes Waiting for You

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 11:00:00 -0400

In response to our amateur videographers, we are extending the Submission Deadline for the B.I.G.* Awards to Thursday, November 1, giving you additional time as a video producer. This is your opportunity to tell the world the story of your entrepreneurial journey, your culture or your brand.

Then ask your colleagues and friends to "Go to the polls" at www.bigaward.org to vote. Your video entry may qualify you and your company for $60,000 in big prizes and exposure.

Video Entry Submission Deadline Thursday, November 1, 2012

Polls Close for People's Choice Award Friday, November 2, 2012 at 12:00 Noon

The winners of the Judges' Choice and People's Choice Awards will be featured at The B.I.G.* Summit on November 8, 2012, at Full Sail University. Click here to learn more about this exciting lineup of prizes.

So, don't waste another minute. Get out your FlipCam . . . alert your marketing crew! Tell the world your story of how you got where you are today, what values and philosophies shaped your company's brand, and who was there to support your vision along the way. The sooner you submit your video ? the more time you'll have to collect online votes in the People's Choice category.

There are just three simple steps to enter the B.I.G.* Award.

1. Shoot it ? Tell us your story in a 2-minute video. Now you have the chance to tell the world about your entrepreneurial journey, your culture or your brand for a chance to win big prizes and big exposure.

2. Show it ? Just get out your FlipCam or any video device and record your story. It's all about the video that creates the best emotional connection with the viewers.

3. Share it ? Upload the video to your YouTube account. Then, connect your YouTube account with the B.I.G.* Award site, www.bigaward.org and share our video like mad. Ask your customers, colleagues and friends to visit the B.I.G.* Award site and vote! Remember, the earlier you share ? the more people can vote for your video.

For details on the B.I.G.* Award and additional information about The B.I.G.* Summit, visit www.orlando.org/big
*Business Innovation & Growth

Orlando, Inc.
Orlando, Inc ., is one of four lines of business of the Central Florida Partnership and is specifically focused on Regional Entrepreneurship. A "Five-Star Chamber" ? the highest level of achievement awarded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce ? we are positioned to serve the growing needs of businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the Central Florida Region.

In an effort to improve access to fellow members as well as membership benefits, we have placed all members into three new and simple categories: Business Basic (previously Small Business Chamber), Business Connection (previously Chamber Trustees) and Business Partner (previously Regional Board of Advisors). Logon to www.orlando.org for detailed information on how you can best leverage your Orlando, Inc. Membership.

Working together with BusinessForce (Public Policy Advocacy), myregion.org (Regional Research & Resolves) and Leadership Orlando ( Regional Leadership), the Central Florida Partnership is moving "Ideas to Results."

For additional information, visit: www.orlando.org

Leadership Orlando Commencement - Class 83 Receives Board Service Certification

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0400

Transforming the experiences of our Leadership Orlando participants during the last eight months into actionable community service was the goal for our final session. On Tuesday, the members of Class 83 marked the conclusion of their participation in Leadership Orlando which began in April and the commencement of their leadership service to the Central Florida Region.

A return to leadership skills training and a primer on volunteer board service was provided, in partnership with The Philanthropy and Nonprofit Leadership Center at Rollins College. By providing new skills, new resources, and new opportunities to connect and engage with regional needs, Class 83 graduates are better prepared to take their next step as community leaders.

For the very first time, these Leadership Orlando graduates have been formally certified through a new partnership with the Community Foundation of Central Florida, the Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership Center at Rollins College, and the Central Florida Partnership. The 90-minute Orientation to Board Service course, presented by The Philanthropy Center's Senior Program Manager, Emily Furlong, provides crucial information on the roles and responsibilities of board members as well as fiduciary expectations and liabilities in volunteer leadership roles.


Craig M. McAllaster, Ed.D. shares insights with Leadership Orlando Class 83. Orientation to Board Service Certification provided for the first time through new community partnership.

Special thanks to Leadership Orlando Alum, Kaia Forgt, Program Manager at The Philanthropy Center, for designing and coordinating our session, who also served as Game Show Host as class members participated in a "jeopardy-like" test of their knowledge of the Leadership Orlando syllabus, reminding them of all that they have encountered during the last eight months.

Donald N. Upton, President of Fairfield Index, Inc., called upon Class Members to provide assistance to the Central Florida Partnership in "Turning the Page." With the majority of its Regional Priorities identified four years ago now in the "Accomplishments" column, the Central Florida Partnership has begun the process of looking ahead to identify "what's next." The Regional Priorities serve as the foundation of the Leadership Orlando curriculum, and who better to help develop the regional agenda moving forward than the participants who have been immersed in its content for the last eight months.


Don Upton asks Leadership Orlando Class to help "Turn the Page." Guided by Kaia Forget, Class 83 participants hear from Marty Rubin, Robert Brown, Mark Brewer, and Flora Maria Garcia on how to engage in community service through volunteer leadership.


Click here to view more photos.

Class members celebrated their graduation into community service at a reception at Park Plaza Gardens with members of the A-Team (2012 Leadership Alumni Association).

It is with very Special Thanks that we recognize Yolanda L Cade, Managing Director of Public Relations, AAA National Office, for her outstanding leadership and inspiration as Class 83 Chair. To the following members of Leadership Orlando Class 83, we say "Thank You" for your commitment to the Central Florida Region and Congratulations!

Chair
Yolanda L. Cade
AAA National Office

Amel A. Al-Charaakh
Babylon University

Jody A. Alexander
YMCA Downtown Orlando

Leonard E. Arnold, Jr.
Littlejohn Engineering Associates, Inc.

David S. Alvarado
JHT, Inc.

David Bacon
Hardin Construction Company, LLC

Laurence Barron
Visit Orlando

Richard R. Beddow
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment

Amy Bosley
Valencia College

Andy Bradley
Cross, Fernandez & Riley LLP

Angela M. Buchanan
Wells Fargo

Brian G. Bush
HD Supply

Carl Butts
Lincoln Technical Institute

Daniel A. Caligiuri
CNL Commercial Real Estate

Kathy Clary
LYNX

Patricia E. Combs
Clear Channel Outdoor

Laurie G. Conrad
Workscapes, Inc.

Ismael Cotto
Naval Air Warfare Center
Training Systems Division

Cathryn DeCecco
Florida Blue

Anthony J. Delicati
Naval Air Warfare Center
Training Systems Division

Cary J. D'Ortona, II
Arnold Palmer Medical Center

Laurance T. Driscoll
United States Navy

LeeAnne E. Fagan
BB&T (Branch Banking & Trust)

Jacqueline E. Ferris
Burr & Forman LLP

Karen L. Flood
Florida Hospital

Keri Flynn
CBC of Central Florida

Belinda F. Frazier
Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

Christopher P. Friedmann
First Baptist Church of Orlando

Janet K. Ginn

Paul M. Giordano
Massey Services, Inc.

Alex F. Gonzalez
Harvard Jolly Architecture

Katherine M. Gonzalez
American Red Cross Mid-Florida Region

Elisha Gonzalez Bonnewitz
Valencia College

Nathaniel T. Groover
Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission

John C. Harris
Balfour Beatty Construction

Kim C. King
City of Orlando

Kathie M. Koerwer
Wycliffe Bible Translators, Inc.

Meredith E. Level
Lowndes, Drosdick, Doster, Kantor & Reed, P.A.

Y'Isiah Lopes
MBA Management Team, Inc.

Jason S. Loschiavo
MetroPlan Orlando

Eugene F. Lozano
England, Thims & Miller, Inc.

Robert E. McFadden
Holland & Knight LLP

Troy L. McNichols
AT&T Services, Inc.

Dawn Millner
Greenberg Traurig, P.A.

Jeffrey M. O'Dell
Orlando Police Department

Laura M. Palermo
AAA National Office

Ruth A. Patrick
BETA Center, Inc.

Gary L. Porter
Orange County Corrections

Sumeet Rajput
HD Supply

Michael C. Rinto
TECO Peoples Gas System

Joseph A. Sarnovsky
Seminole State College of Florida

Carey A. Sealy
CHEP/Equipment Pooling Systems

Brian E. Smith
GrayRobinson, P.A.

Daniel A. Smith, IV
Northwestern Mutual

Ariel Suarez
Transportation Security Administration

David A. Swalina
Orange County Corrections

John D. Trickey
Brasfield & Gorrie L.L.C.

Michael F. Valenzuela
M&I Bank

Joseph Vetter
PNC Bank

Brian A. Wetzel
Orlando Health

Katie Miller Witter
Financial Harvest Wealth Advisors

Wesley R. Wolfe
Florida Blue

Enrollment is currently underway for Class 85 scheduled to begin in March 2013, with Steve Hogan, CEO of Florida Citrus Sports, serving as Class Chair. The online enrollment form and the full schedule may be accessed at www.orlando.org/leadership . Should you have questions, contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or via email at Kathy.panter@orlando.org.

About Leadership Orlando

Developing regional leaders is important to the future success of the Central Florida Region. That is why "Regional Leadership" is a primary line of business for the Central Florida Partnership. With over thirty years of proven success, Leadership Orlando, America's largest "Community Leadership Program," continues to encourage, cultivate and recruit emerging leaders to better serve the Central Florida Region.

Click here to learn more about Leadership Orlando
Click here for a listing of the 2012 Leadership Team

BusinessForce Names 2013-2014 Chair

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 11:00:00 -0400

Central Florida Partnership Chair-elect Aaron Gorovitz has selected Linda Landman Gonzalez, Vice President of Community Relations and Governmental Affairs for the Orlando Magic, as the 2013-14 Chair of BusinessForce, the political action arm of the Central Florida Partnership. Landman Gonzalez will succeed outgoing BusinessForce Chair Jay Galbraith of SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment. Galbraith and Landman Gonzalez will both be honored at BusinessForce's traditional biennial "Passing of the Gavel" luncheon on Dec. 7^th.

In announcing the selection of Landman Gonzalez to the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors on Oct. 17^th, Chair-elect Gorovitz stated, "During my tenure on the BusinessForce Board the service of Linda Landman Gonzalez stood out. She has clearly exhibited the necessary leadership skills and temperament to guide BusinessForce during the next election cycle through the often difficult and complex decisions it must make on behalf of our region."

BusinessForce President Mike Ketchum saluted the outstanding leadership and dedication of outgoing Chair Jay Galbraith during the past two years and went on to praise Gorovitz' selection of Landman Gonzalez stating, "Linda is uniquely qualified to face the challenges BusinessForce faces going forward by virtue of her broad experience in the community and the deep respect she enjoys not only among her colleagues on the BusinessForce Board of Directors but with our business and community leaders.

A New York City native, Landman Gonzalez has been with the Magic for more than four years and oversees team's community relations efforts, governmental affairs and multicultural insights and also presides over the Magic's charitable arm, the Orlando Magic Youth Foundation. She is well-rooted in the community serving on numerous local boards and foundations and was named 2012 Businesswoman of the Year by the Orlando Business Journal.

To learn more about BusinessForce and how you can become involved, visit www.orlando.org/businessforce or contact michael.ketchum@orlando.org.

Proposed Constitutional Amendments - Regional Leadership Forum Breaks Them Down

ruth.mustian@orlando.org — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 11:00:00 -0400

"As Floridians, we know the importance of every vote, and our state has a rich history in elections decided on the narrowest of margins," said Moderator Jeffrey Q. Jonasen, Chair of the Central Florida Partnership. To better prepare for Election Day, the Regional Leadership Forum, hosted by the Central Florida Partnership on Friday, focused on Florida's Proposed Constitutional Amendments and what they could mean for Florida's business community.

Jonasen introduced the program by setting the stage for the discussion. "The Central Florida Partnership is an essential place for leaders to convene, set priorities, address our region's toughest challenges and identify our greatest opportunities. Serving business, civic and community leaders in our seven-county region ? the Central Florida Partnership is a business-led initiative where regional leaders come together ? in settings like this ? to share regional conversations ? moving ideas to results."


Above left: Rep. Eric Eisnaugle, Florida House of Representatives and member of the Central Florida Legislative Delegation. Above right: Commissioner Sam Johnson, Chair, Polk County Commission and Chair, Central Florida Congress of Regional Leaders.

Top left:Dr. Wayne Blanton, Florida School Boards Association; Davin J. Suggs, Florida Association of Counties; Amber Hughes, Florida League of Cities, David Hart, Florida Chamber of Commerce, and Shelley Lauten, myregion.org.

"I think I can say with confidence that we believe today's program, and the November elections overall, bring us to a pivotal point for our state and our nation," Jonasen continued as he introduced the Forum's partners: The Central Florida Legislative Delegation and The Central Florida Congress of Regional Leaders.

The Central Florida Legislative Delegation was formally convened by the Central Florida Partnership in December 2009, bringing together state legislators serving seven Central Florida Counties ? Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia. Since that time, the Central Florida Legislative Delegation has meet with business and community leaders on an annual basis to listen and learn about the challenges and opportunities facing our region, becoming better equipped to address our needs in the State Legislature.

The Central Florida Congress of Regional Leaders was created as a result of the work by myregion.org, a "Line of Business" of the Central Florida Partnership. It is made up of County Commissioners and elected City Officials, along with Members of the Central Florida School Boards Coalition, dedicated to developing shared regional policies that implement the Regional Growth Vision for our seven-county region.



Click here to view more photos from this event.

The standing-room-only crowd, which included business and community leaders as well as elected officials and candidates, at the Orlando Museum of Art heard the State's Legislative Perspective from The Honorable Eric Eisnaugle, Florida House of Representatives District 40 and a member of the Central Florida Legislative Delegation. The Local Government Perspective was provided by The Honorable Sam Johnson, Chair of the Polk County Commission and Chair of the Central Florida Congress of Regional Leaders.

A panel discussion primarily focused on four of the eleven proposed amendments that will appear on the ballot. Led by Shelley Lauten, President of myregion.org, the panel included Dr. Wayne Blanton, Florida School Boards Association; David Hart, Florida Chamber of Commerce; Amber Hughes, Florida League of Cities; and Davin J. Suggs, Florida Association of Counties.

Each panelist provided an overview of one of the four business-related amendments, namely, Amendment 3 - State Government Revenue Limitation, Amendment 4 ? Property Tax Limitations, Amendment 8 ? Religious Freedom, and Amendment 10 ? Tangible Personal Property Tax Exemption. Discussions followed on the pros and cons of each proposal and why their organizations may or may not have taken an official position on the amendments.

Panelists touched on everything from rainy day funds to recapture rules, from homebuyer incentives to burdensome compliance procedures, and from Florida's complicated tax system to the lack of a statutory definition of religion ? all various components of the proposed amendments under consideration by Florida Voters.

In the end, it will be up to the voters to do their research and make an educated decision when they go to the ballot box. In closing, David Hart, Florida Chamber of Commerce, quoted Patrick Henry who said, "The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government - lest it come to dominate our lives and interests."

In the audience were a group of young people representing Public Allies who most graciously thanked the Central Florida Partnership for including them in the Regional Leadership Forum. Public Allies Central Florida is part of a national movement grounded in the conviction that everyone leads, everyone can make a difference, and everyone can work to inspire more citizens to believe in themselves, step up, and act. Throughout our nation's history, lasting social change has always resulted from the courageous acts of many, not just the inspiration of the few. Public Allies Director, Karla Radka, is a graduate of the Central Florida Partnership's Leadership Orlando Program, Class 82.

As the Regional Leadership Forum adjourned, attendees were invited to help themselves to a variety of resources and information on display provided by the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Florida Farm Bureau, Florida Trend, the Central Florida Partnership and others that explain in greater detail the amendments and organizations represented, as well as a listing of pro-business candidates endorsed by BusinessForce, the political action arm of the Central Florida Partnership.

Central Florida Partnership - Ideas to Results

About the Central Florida Partnership

Click here to learn more about the Central Florida Partnership.

Click here for the Central Florida Partnership Board of Directors.