1. sports
2. horses

May 2015
Partner Connections Magazine connects partners to the CEP,
to each other and to our community.
Young Professionals Ocala:
Introducing Ocala’s
Future Leaders pg. 6
Photo by Studio 45
Cover Story
Sponsored by Verteks
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Pub l i sher s’ U p d a t e
exC EP tional C onnections
Dear Partners,
Hello and welcome to the May issue of Partner Connections.
This month, as we shine the spotlight on the many leadership
programs of our Ocala/Marion Chamber & Economic Partnership,
we feel it is appropriate to share a quote that former President
Woodrow Wilson once spoke to a group of emerging leaders...
“You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order
to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with
a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the
world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.”
Great leaders, no matter their realm of influence, understand
this concept - that their call is not simply to engage their own
interests, but to connect with and inspire those around them
with a sense of vision, of hope, of prosperity and of achievement. And that’s precisely the goal of the CEP - to present real
opportunities in which great leaders can connect, emerge and
thrive right here in our community.
Just have a look at our cover story featuring Young Professionals Ocala (YPO) and our secondary features on the various
Leadership programs of the CEP, as well as the information
we’re providing about the many Business Education programs
and NetWorks Groups of the CEP. Overall, you’ll see that the
CEP is all about building relationships, personal and profes-
Inside This Issue
sional, in which leaders are encouraged to connect and nurture
each other, for the purpose of collectively enriching Ocala/
Marion County’s business climate and economy and improving
the quality of life in our community.
We are thrilled to be a part of this great organization that so
readily reminds of us the errand we are on, and we encourage you
to take part in as many opportunities as you can. As you peruse
this issue, you are sure to find your place in our local leadership
community, if you haven’t already done so. After all, as Woodrow
pointed out, none of us are here to merely make a living.
All our best,
Business Division Publishers
Best Version Media
Tina Atha
Note from Tina Atha: I am in the
current Leadership Ocala Marion class
(Class XXVIII Best Class Ever) and
although I have been involved in the community for several years, I have learned
so much from this opportunity and highly
recommend it. For more information, see
our feature on Pg. 10 in this issue.
Business After Hours Photos . . . . 17
Non Profit Business Council
releases new non-profit events
Business Retention: Think Local! . 18
calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
The NetWorks Groups of the
The Leadership Programs of the
Ocala/Marion County Chamber
Ocala/Marion County Chamber &
& Economic Partnership . . . . . . . 19
Economic Partnership . . . . . . . . . 10
exCEPtional Mornings
Retired Professionals and Executives
Speaker & Bio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Group (RPEG) Becomes Experienced
Leaders Ocala (XLO) . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Ribbon Cuttings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Chamber about starting a leadership program for high school
students. With an initial gift, the Chamber began Leadership
have been training and providing opportunities to train new
Ocala Marion Youth in 1989. LOMY follows a similar sched-
generations of leaders on the needs of this community and how
ule to LOM but works around the school day calendar. The
they can engage.
orientation retreat is on a Saturday and each monthly session
Leadership Ocala Marion
is approximately four-hours long and occurs after school. The
exception is a day-long trip to Tallahassee when students experience state government at work.
While the topics are similar, the competition to be accepted
back to Mr. Frank Stafford who was serving as President of the
into LOMY is quite fierce. For example, each of the last two
Board of the Chamber in 1986 when the decision was made to hire
years saw approximately 100 students competing for just 40
a consultant to help the Chamber start a leadership program. The
spots. The requirements for the program means those 100
first class began in the fall in 1987. While methods and details have
students are already among the best in Marion County. This
changed over the years, the principles and mission remain the
past year’s applicant pool represented 11 high schools from
same: Leadership Ocala Marion (LOM) is designed to engage,
throughout the county. The application period for the 2015-16
develop, and inspire developing leaders in our community.
year has already closed, again with nearly 100 applicants. The
LOM seeks to prepare, involve and sustain leaders from diverse
review process has begun and the new class will be announced
backgrounds who are committed and competent to address com-
in mid-to-late May.
and quality of life in Ocala and Marion County.
Drug Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Daniel Hightower . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Brian Ehlers Construction . . . . . . . 16
Ocala UAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Homes to Ranches . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
77 Clouds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Studio 45 Photography . . . . . . . . . 19
Falcon Industrial Park . . . . . . . . . . 20
Advanced Imaging Centers . . . . . 21
Cultural Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Angie Lewis State Farm . . . . . . . . 23
The Bridge At Ocala . . . . . . . . . . . 24
The success of LOM led the Junior League to approach the
Marion (LOM) and Leadership Ocala Marion Youth (LOMY)
munity challenges and improve the business climate, economy
ICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
On Top of the World
Communities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
HDG Hotels & Developing
Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
BJ Trophies, Awards & Gifts . . . . . . 8
Walts Brake & More . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Verteks Consulting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Hawthorne Village
Retirement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Career Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Mail Marketing Pros. Inc. . . . . . . . 12
Ocala/Marion Prescription
Leadership Ocala Marion Youth
leadership programs. For nearly 30 years, Leadership Ocala
Leadership Ocala Marion. The program’s beginnings can be traced
Advertising Index
exCEPtional Connections . . . . . . . . 5 The Business Education Programs of
the Ocala/Marion County Chamber
Feature Story: Young Professionals
& Economic Partnership . . . . . . . . . 14
Ocala: Introducing Ocala’s Future
Leaders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
ations, and the beginning of planning for the CEP’s amazing
In mid-May, the 33 member of Class XXVIII will graduate from
Tina Atha
Klodiana Palushi
Klodiana Palushi
S
pring brings warmer weather, high school proms and gradu-
For those unfamiliar with LOM, the program is engaging yet
rigorous. After an application and interview selection process,
a class of up to 40 leaders embarks upon a program which
The cost for LOMY is kept to a minimum. However, we do
have a scholarship program for those students needing assistance. Again, Frank and Pamela Stafford have been stalwart in
supporting this effort.
It has been said that everything rises and falls on leadership.
includes an orientation retreat and once-a-month, all-day ses-
Investing in and building up leaders is
sions. Each session focuses on a different area of community
essential for our community to be the
life and seek to help the leaders understand the inner workings
best choice to live, work and play. ■
of those areas including economic development, quality of life,
human services, government, justice, agriculture and educa-
Best,
Kevin Sheilley,
tion. The LOM calendar runs September through May.
The deadline to apply for Class XXIX is June 19. For more
President & CEO of the CEP
information on applying, please visit the CEP’s website—OcalaCEP.com/supporting-business.
For more information contact publishers:
Klodiana Palushi
Phone: 352-470-7302
Email: kpalushi@bestversionmedia.com
Publication Team
Publishers:
Klodiana Palushi, Tina Atha
Content Coordinator: Sadie Fitzpatrick
Designer: Greg Miller
Contributing Photographer: Heather Spohn
of Studio45 and Simply British
ADVERTISING
BVM has numerous business and neighborhoodspecific publications that micro-target all areas of
Marion County.
4
Partner Connections
•
Tina Atha
Phone: 352-817-1866
Email: tatha@bestversionmedia.com
FEEDBACK/IDEAS/SUBMISSIONS
Have feedback, ideas, or submissions?
We are always happy to hear from you!
Deadlines for submissions are the 15th of each
month. Go to www.bestversionmedia.com
and click “Submit Content.” You may also
email your thoughts, ideas, and photos to:
sadie@ocalacep.com.
May 2015
Magazines usually arrive in mailboxes the first
week of the month. Dates may vary depending
on the post office.
mission Statement
CEP Partner Connections’ mission is to connect
partners to the CEP, to each other and to the
community. To support CEP Partner Connections
or to learn more, please contact Publishers.
Volume 2 • Number 5
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements
and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the
views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners
associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves.
BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of
any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole
discretion of the submitting party. © 2015 Best Version Media.
All rights reserved.
May 2015
•
Partner Connections
5
Photo’s By Studio 45
Why did you join YPO?
Pamela Calero, Chair of YPO: Ocala is
my hometown and through YPO I seek
ways to share my love for this city with
other young professionals as well as find
unique ways to give back. As a member
for the past four years, I’ve gained friendships, useful businesses relationships, and
a broader scope of our community.
Nick Robinson: I joined YPO because I
wanted to be a part of an organization
that had my interests in mind. As a young
professional myself I was looking for a
forum to express my views and concerns
within the business climate locally. I found,
through YPO, there is power in numbers.
I’m so glad I’m a part of such a dynamic
group of young professionals who are advocating for the issues that matter to me
all the time, whether politically, socially, or
economically in Ocala and Marion County.
Young Professionals Ocala:
Introducing Ocala’s Future Leaders
By Sadie Fitzpatrick
A
seminal program of the Chamber
& Economic Partnership is Young
Professionals Ocala (YPO),
an organization dedicated to
engaging and interacting with
the Ocala community in order
to make it a better place. The organization began in 2005 when a
group of 13 young professionals
came together to form Emerging Leaders Ocala (ELO). Their
mission was to actively engage
Ocala’s young professionals in
providing direction for their
community and attract likeminded individuals to make an
impact on Ocala.
In 2014, Emerging Leaders Ocala
(ELO) became Young Professionals
Ocala (YPO), a name the organization
6
Partner Connections
•
felt better reflected the purpose and
mission of the group. YPO currently
boasts a membership roster of more
than 275 young professionals.
The core demographic of YPO is
young professionals ages 21-40 in the
Ocala/Marion County area who are
May 2015
interested in making valuable connections, both personally and professionally. YPO’s mission centers around three
core values: professional development,
networking, and community
service.
With YPO, networking and professional development are more
than exchanging business cards.
The networking events hosted by
YPO encourage each member to
make valuable social and professional connections while learning
more about their community. Their
Leaders’ Lunch series hosts lunches at area businesses and provides
important updates on businesses
in the Ocala area. Through these
networking events, YPO members
are some of the first people to learn
about groundbreaking developments in
the Ocala business industry.
Lauren Grove: After moving back to
Ocala after 10 years of living in the Tampa
Bay area, I was craving professional, social
interaction. My husband and I moved
to Ocala so he could start a chiropractic
practice here, and with having a business
of my own, joining YPO was the natural choice for us. I believe in the power
of relationships and connections, and
YPO provides the atmosphere for those
relationships and connections to be made.
Not only that, but involvement with the
community and having the opportunity
to give back to the city that I grew up in
is something that is near and dear to my
heart. Being an active member of YPO has
become a priority of mine, and I encourage each and every young professional in
Ocala to get involved!
Benefits of a YPO Membership
• All access pass to YPO-sponsored
events
• Invitation and complimentary
entrance to the monthly Ocala/Marion
County Chamber & Economic Partnership Business After Hours events
•E
xclusive invitation to members-only
events
•A
pplications for membership are
available at www.OcalaCEP.com
• Membership dues are $75.00 a year
A recent Leaders’ Lunch
focused on downtown development with representatives from a variety of business sectors speaking on
their plans to make downtown Ocala a thriving and
exciting place to live, work,
and play. Leaders’ Lunches
are hosted monthly and
lunch is provided. These events are free
for YPO members and prospective YPO
members are encouraged to attend to
learn more about the organization.
In April, YPO hosted a Southern Social, which celebrated Ocala’s southern
heritage as well as welcomed the filmmakers involved with Ocala’s newest
cultural event, the 2015 Silver Springs
International Film Festival. This event
was held at the Brick City Center for
the Arts and was sponsored by Trilogy
at Ocala Preserve and Tri-Eagle Sales.
Live music, delicious Southern fare, and
cocktails were enjoyed by an audience
of more than 200. Tri-Eagle Sales has
served as the main sponsor of YPO
since its inception, and their partnership with the organization is invaluable.
Major plans are in the works to host a
late June recruitment bash, which will
showcase YPO and its mission while attracting new members.
Community involvement and giving
back to the Ocala/Marion County area
is the number one priority of YPO. Each
month, a diverse list of community
service projects is offered to YPO memMay 2015
bers. These projects include building
homes for Habitat for Humanity, participating in the annual Mayor’s Spring
Clean Up to clean up our highways
and streets, collecting gifts for senior
adults at Marion Senior Services, ringing
bells for the Salvation Army during the
holidays, and serving meals at area food
banks. Through their efforts, YPO members have committed hundreds of man
hours each year to these organizations.
YPO not only provides
Ocala’s young professionals with opportunities to grow personally
and professionally, but
socially as well. Many
newcomers to the Ocala
area have joined YPO to
learn more about their
new city and to make
friends through the organization.
Stewart Hill, the vicechair of YPO, recalls
how joining YPO benefited him as a newcomer to Ocala,
saying, “Since moving to the Ocala
area in 2010, I have found being a part
of YPO to be very rewarding. Through
YPO’s networking and volunteer events,
I have met many young professionals
like myself. These connections have not
only brought business leads, but true
friendships. Young Professionals Ocala
has provided me with the opportunity
to meet Ocala/Marion County’s leaders
of today, and also our leaders of tomorrow.”
This 2015 year has proven to be the
most exciting in YPO’s history. With
Leaders’ Lunches and social events
planned for every month this year, the
organization’s recruitment numbers
are growing and current members are
learning more about their community
through the many networking events
and by participating in community service activities. ■
To learn more about Young Professionals Ocala (YPO), please contact
Jaye Baillie at 352.629.8051 or Jaye@
OcalaCEP.com.
•
Partner Connections
7
Non P r ofi t B u s i n e s s C o u n c il
Non Profit Business Council releases
new non-profit events calendar
By Sadie Fitzpatrick
T
he Non Profit Business Council, a leadership program of
the Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partner-
ship, has created a non-profit events calendar, intended for all
non-profit organizations in the Ocala/Marion County area to
plan their fundraising and community events.
The Non Profit Business Council is a group comprised of
more than 142 area non-profits with a mission to promote the
event will be sent to the CEP for approval. Upon approval, it
positive economic impact of nonprofits; strengthen their lead-
will be displayed on the Events Calendar for view by all area
ership capacity; and promote collaboration and philanthropic
non-profit organizations.
education throughout the community.
For more information about this Events Calendar or the Non
Lauren DeIorio, chair of the Non Profit Business Council,
Profit Business Council, please contact Jaye Baillie at Jaye@
explained, “Over the past few years, the NPBC steering com-
OcalaCEP.com or 352.629.8051 x 101. ■
mittee has had many non-profit organizations express the need
for a calendar dedicated to local non-profit events in Marion
The Ocala/Marion County Chamber and Economic Partner-
County. Many of the representatives wanted an easily acces-
ship was created to be a one-stop hub for the community’s
sible calendar that plotted events at least 12 months year. The
business attraction, creation and retention efforts. The CEP’s
calendar would help with planning of events, so fundraisers
mission is to be THE catalyst for a prosperous community.
wouldn’t conflict with another local non-profit’s event.”
The Moving Forward plan seeks to impact the creation of
Submitting your non-profit event is simple and easy. Visit
the Non Profit Business Council’s landing page and click,
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“Submit an event,” which will provide you with a form to
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For more information, visit: www.OcalaCEP.com
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Partner Connections
•
May 2015
1|8h_Walts Brake & More_0714.indd 1
6/24/14 1:10 PM
Le ader shi p P r o g r a m s o f t h e Oc a la /M a rio n Co u n t y
The Leadership Programs of the
Ocala/Marion County Chamber &
Economic Partnership
By Sadie Fitzpatrick
T
he Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership’s (CEP) Leadership programs are designed to nurture
and engage the leadership skills of potential and current leaders by providing an atmosphere that stimulates and fosters diverse viewpoints, resulting in innovative answers to the critical
questions facing our community. These leadership programs
prepare and motivate participants to provide quality, dynamic
leadership within our community.
Leadership Ocala Marion (LOM)
The signature program of the CEP’s Talent Development
Programs is Leadership Ocala Marion (LOM). Since its inception
in 1987, LOM has
served as the premiere
leadership development program in the
Ocala/Marion County
area. More than 825 people have participated in the LOM program,
and graduates have served in key leadership positions within their
businesses and organizations. Participants of the program learn
about all facets of their community such as healthcare, agriculture, city government, justice, and human services.
This intensive, nine-month program provides networking opportunities, leadership skills, and community training. Participants
are carefully chosen based on their community involvement, professional accomplishments, and written recommendations from
past LOM graduates.
Bart Rowland, a current member of the LOM Class XXVIII,
said, “Joining LOM was a great opportunity for me because my
family and I had recently moved to Ocala and did not know much
about the area. LOM has taught me that Marion County is full of
hardworking, caring people who are always willing to reach out
to others. The friendships I have made in LOM will definitely last a
lifetime. Each session puts a spotlight on the people and industries that make Marion County a great place to live, work, raise a
family, and have fun.”
This year’s class was sponsored by Cox Communications.
Applications for the LOM Class XXIX are now available at www.
OcalaCEP.com. The program begins in September and ends in late
May. For more information, please contact Jaye Baillie at Jaye@
OcalaCEP.com.
Leadership Ocala Marion Youth (LOMY)
Similar to Leadership Ocala Marion (LOM), Leadership Ocala
10
Partner Connections
•
May 2015
Marion Youth (LOMY) is for high school students entering their
junior year. This leadership program seeks to develop young
individuals to be the next
generation of community
leaders; preparing them for
constructive and responsible involvement in community affairs, while also thinking seriously about career pathways
in Ocala and Marion County. The county-wide program brings
together a diverse group of students from public and private high
schools across Marion County.
Students are often recommended by their high school administrators, but can also request an application from the Chamber &
Economic Partnership. Final class selections will be made following a review of applications and through interviews with members
of the LOMY Board of Regents. Students must have approval of
parent(s) or guardian to participate. A maximum of forty students
representing the various public and private high schools in Marion
County will be selected to participate in each LOMY class.
This year’s class was sponsored by Edward Jones with scholarships sponsored by Frank and Pamela Stafford and Duggan,
Joiner, & Company.
more about each other’s organizational missions and operations. They soon discovered that they wanted to know more
about other organizations in the community. With this discovery in mind, the scope soon
became much larger, incorporating all non-profit organizations in Marion County. Thus, a
network of non-profit organizations was built. The committee’s
primary purposes were to promote the non-profit economic
impact, to distinguish nonprofits as businesses, to strengthen
their leadership capacity, and to build a Continuum of Care
Network for Ocala/Marion County.
The Council also hosts the Non Profit Business Council CEO
Roundtable, which is open to all CEOs/Executive Directors of
501(c)(3) organizations in Marion County with meetings held
quarterly in the CEP Boardroom. These meetings are for CEOs by
CEOs. Meetings include a complimentary networking lunch and
an opportunity to come together for learning and sharing. Topics
of the roundtable discussions include administration and management, boards and governance, ethics and accountability, evaluation and measurement, and fund raising. The CEO Roundtable is
generously sponsored by Jenkins Acura.
Today, more than 30 non-profit organizations are members of
the Non Profit Business Council. They also have a comprehensive
listing of all of the non-profits’ events in Ocala/Marion County in
their Non Profit Events Calendar located on their landing page on
the CEP website. This prevents event crossover and allows all of
the non-profit organizations in the area to know the important details of each non-profit’s charitable events. Submitting your event
is as easy filling out an application and pressing “Submit!”
To learn more about this organization, please contact Jaye Baillie at Jaye@OcalaCEP.com.
Network Marketing Council
The Network Marketing Council was established to promote the
economic impact of the direct selling industry and distinguish direct sellers and network marketers as reputable business owners
and entrepreneurs. The Council also
strives to provide quality educational
opportunities, as well as strengthen
their leadership capacity and build
a diverse group of independent
business people that sell goods and
services directly to consumers in Marion County.
The Council focuses on the Direct Selling industry, and encourages hosting monthly meetings where local and regional industry
leaders share their path to success. Training workshops focusing
on business training and individual skill building are also held
quarterly.
The Direct Selling Council meets on the fourth Thursday of the
month in the CEP Boardroom at noon. For more information,
please contact Tamara Fleischhaker at Tamara@OcalaCEP.com. ■
Leadership Ocala Marion Alumni (LOMA)
Graduates of the LOM and LOMY programs are invited to join
Leadership Ocala Marion Alumni (LOMA). Graduates of Leadership Ocala Marion (LOM) and
Leadership Ocala Marion Youth
(LOMY) continue to build alliances, foster goodwill and civic
trusteeship that strengthen Ocala
and Marion County. Through their
participation in nonprofit organizations, local government boards
and our schools they continue to help our community move
forward and enhance relations with other like-minded, influential
community leaders.
If you are an alumnus of the LOM or LOMY programs and would
like to update your information on the Leadership Ocala Marion
Alumni roster, please compete contact Jaye Baillie at Jaye@OcalaCEP.com.
This year’s sponsor of LOMA was Benefit Advisors.
Non Profit Business Council
The Non Profit Business Council was formed in 2009 when
Jenny Harmon (then of Hospice of Marion County) and Cathleen Blagay (then of PACE Center for Girls) wanted to learn
May 2015
•
Partner Connections
11
Reti r ed P r of e s s i o n a l s a n d E x e c u t iv e s Gro u p ( RPEG)
Retired Professionals and
Executives Group (RPEG)
Becomes Experienced Leaders
Ocala (XLO)
By Sadie Fitzpatrick
T
he Retired Professionals and Executives Group (RPEG),
an organization created to provide communication, educa-
tion, and a connection between the retired population and the
Ocala/Marion County business community, has changed its
name to Experienced Leaders Ocala (XLO). Members of this
issues that impact the business community and the quality of life
organization felt that the name change better reflected their
in our community, stay informed as to political and other issues
mission of engaging retirees in the community and showcasing
that may affect them and have a voice on those issues, and serve
how and why Ocala/Marion County is the best place to retire.
as a resource for those who are considering spending their retired
Experienced Leaders Ocala (XLO) provides opportunities to
active retirees who wish to contribute their skills and knowledge
MAY 2015 CareerSource CLM- CEPartners Connection ad.pdf 1 4/16/2015 11:19:25 AM
to the success of the CEP and the business community, engage on
years in our growing community.
Patti Wallner, the current XLO Membership Chair, explained
why she joined XLO, saying, “As an active retiree, XLO keeps me
informed and aware of local issues, connects me to Ocala leadership and gives me opportunities to be actively involved in Ocala’s
She can be anything.
future.” ■
Starting with
SUCCESFUL.
If you’re interested in joining this dynamic group of retired
executives, please contact Jaye Baillie at Jaye@OcalaCEP.com.
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12
Partner Connections
MailMarketingPros.com
Florida’s Premier mailing service!
Make Mail Marketing Pros your ONE STOP SOURCE for all your printing,
mailing, list services, printed business supplies, and more!
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• Booklets and NCR Forms
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May 2015
Bus i ness E d u c a t i o n P r o g r a ms
The Business Education
Programs of the Ocala/Marion
County Chamber & Economic
Partnership
By Sadie Fitzpatrick
T
uesdayTalks, Held the First and
Third Tuesday of Every Month at
8:30 A.M. and 4:00 P.M.
The CEP offers TuesdayTalks, a Business Advancement Series, to help small
to mid-sized companies broaden the
training and skills necessary to run and
improve their businesses. The topics are
presented by partner companies who
are subject matter experts and have
achieved notable success through their
affiliation with the CEP and through their
individual approaches to business.
Previous topics have included learning
Basic and Advanced Microsoft Excel,
managing your finances via QuickBooks,
customer service, and workforce and
employment issues.
Through the generosity of sponsor,
Rasmussen College, the CEP is able to offer
the TuesdayTalks series twice per day and
two times each month in order to provide
a variety of timely and relevant topics and
attend at a time that is convenient for your
busy schedule. These workshops are open to
business owners, managers, and their staff.
Breakfast is provided by Street Bistro
at the morning session and cupcakes are
provided by Smallcakes: A Cupcakery in
the afternoon.
FridayTalks in Dunnellon, Held the
Last Friday of Each Month at 8:30
A.M. at the Dunnellon Chamber of
Commerce
14
Partner Connections
•
Similar to the TuesdayTalks series, FridayTalks, which is also generously sponsored by Rasmussen College, is a monthly
education session held in Dunnellon to
better serve the CEP’s partners in southwest Marion County. The session is held
the last Friday of each month. Make sure
to bring your business cards for networking, which begins at 8:00 A.M. For more
information on upcoming sessions, please
check the events calendar on the CEP’s
website for topics at www.OcalaCEP.com.
On-Demand Workshops
Two to three times a year, the CEP will
sponsor on-demand workshops on various
topics of interest to our partners. These
workshops are generally longer (two hours
up to a full day) and are more in-depth in coverage. Recent examples include Privacy and
Security and an Employment Law Update.
Power Talks
Power Talks, sponsored by Rasmussen
College, is an opportunity for entrepreneurs and business owners to learn
about topics that will leave an impact on
them and their businesses. The talks are
free to attend, and are held on scheduled
Fridays at noon in the Second Floor
Training Room of the Power Plant Business Incubator. Each talk is a brown bag
lunch and attendees are encouraged to
bring their own food and drink.
NetWorking University
The quarterly Networking University,
generously sponsored by The Vines,
teaches you the ends and outs of effective
networking. Each quarter you can learn
valuable tools to help you enhance your
networking ability. You will learn from
CEP professionals, so it will be fun-filled
as well as informative. Lunch is included
with each session and the cost is free to
all partners. However, these sessions are
May 2015
Fighting for Accident Victim Justice
Since 1976
full up to a MONTH in advance, so watch
the calendar and make your reservations!
Communicating Essentials of
Partnership (C.E.P.) Partner
Orientation
C.E.P. Partner Orientation provides a
great snapshot of the CEP and the many
partner benefits the organization offers. You
will learn how to maximize your partnership through event participation, marketing
your business, and using your Online Partner Portal. This event is designed for new
partners and those who would like to take
a more active role. C.E.P is held the fourth
Wednesday of each month at 8:30 A.M.
NetPerking
NetPerking is a smaller, more intimate
networking event held in the early morning at locations throughout the county.
Partners will build relationships over
coffee and a light breakfast. NetPerking
allows CEP partners to showcase their
unique business venue. Held quarterly,
the presenting sponsor for NetPerking
2015 is Insight Credit Union.
• Car Accidents
• Work Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Wrongful Death
• Social Security Disability
• Bankruptcy
• Simple Wills & Estate Plans
Marion Business Advantage
(MBA)
Earn your MBA or Marion Business Advantage by taking part in the CEP’s new,
smaller after-hours networking event.
These quarterly events are held throughout the county to make it easier for the
CEP’s partners to access networking opportunities closer to their home or office.
MBA is held in more intimate locations,
allowing partners who have not previously been able to host an event to showcase
their business. This series is generously
sponsored by St. Leo University. ■
7 East Silver Springs Boulevard, Suite 300, Ocala
352-629-7777 | 888-LAW-1976
www.facebook.com/danhightowerlawyer
www.danhightower.com
[All events are held at the CEP unless otherwise noted]
May 5:
May 20:
Business After Hours Hosted by Appleton Museum of Art
May 29:
Photo By Simply British
Cal endar O f E v e n t s
exCEPtional Mornings
7:30 A.M. to 9:00 A.M. @ Marion
Extension Auditorium
May 20:
Tuesday Talks: 8:30 A.M. and 4:00 P.M.
Non Profit Business Council Monthly
Meeting: 2:00 P.M.
XLO Lunch and Learn Meeting at
Hennessy Arabian from 11:30 A.M.1:00 P.M.
FridayTalks in Dunnellon
8:30 A.M.
Dunnellon Chamber of Commerce
May 21:
Business After Hours
5:00-7:00 P.M.
The Refuge: A Healing Place
May 19:
May 28:
Network Marketing Council
11:30 A.M.
Tuesday Talks, 8:30 A.M. and 4:00 P.M.
NetWorks Meetings:
May 5 and 19:
NetWorks: Promoters
May 13 and 27:
NetWorks: Success Partners
8:15 A.M.
WHY ARE YOU STILL IN THE DARK? By Dr. Katarina Mizouni
A QUEST FOR ANSWERS
It’s in mankind’s nature to ask questions about our place in the universe. And
the possibilities are thrilling. Strange sightings are increasing all around the
world with no explanation.
WHAT ELSE IS OUT THERE?
A team of experts in Ocala, FL, is accumulating photographic evidence of
Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP) of unknown origin. The UAP emit
light of various colors, exhibit strange behavior that suggest intelligence, and
resemble descriptions found in top-secret files declassified with the Freedom
of Information Act.
design build
commercial buildouts
construction management
custom homes
Your partner in construction.
Brian Ehlers Construction Co., Inc.
2801 SE 1st Avenue, Suite 402
Ocala, FL 34471
(352) 861-4333
www.brianehlersconstruction.com
16
Partner Connections
•
May 2015
THE ANSWERS ARE HERE
Led by Theorist Steve Nakonechny and Ph.D. Physicist Katarina Mizouni,
the Ocala UAP Affiliation has started a rigorous scientific analysis of the
phenomena for publication. State-of-the art technical equipment is allowing us
to get closer to the truth, one day at a time, but additional studies are needed.
EMBARK ON OUR MISSION
Participate in Ocala UAP’s scientific study and help us get to the bottom of a
worldwide phenomenon that has been amongst us since the dawn of time.
We are in need of business partners to help us
complete our research.
Interested investor parties may contact Steve Nakonechny for
more information at 352.427.3537 or nako1858@gmail.com.
A presentation date for serious investors will be announced.
Private presentations may be available by appointment.
May 2015
•
Partner Connections
17
N etWorks Groups of the Ocala/Mar ion C ounty
Bus i ness Re t e n t i o n
Think Local!
By Felecia Judge
J
ohn Maxwell, a popular and wellrespected author and speaker, penned
the book titled “Good Leaders Ask Great
Questions.” The book provides the reader insight about how listening is often the
most effective form of communication,
as it provides leaders an opportunity to
ask questions and use those (answers) to
become better leaders.
The CEP mirrors John Maxwell’s
theory in that asking questions is the
best way to learn and lead. The Business
Retention team, in particular, is always
hungry for information about our Marion
County businesses. As our mission
statement asserts, our goal is to be “the
catalyst for a prosperous community.” To
be a catalyst, and lead our community,
we can be most effective when we are
armed with information about our businesses so we can better provide resources and referrals for them.
One of the 2015 initiatives of the CEP’s
Business Retention team is to promote
a “Think Local” program to encourage
Marion County’s business community to
utilize other local businesses whenever
possible. As we are becoming one of
Florida’s leading counties for welcoming
new industries, the news can still some-
times elude those in our existing business community. This is where the CEP
has been effective in introducing establishments to each other, and help foster
new relationships. By keeping commerce
local, we can continue our grassroots approach and organically grow our community through job creation and job growth,
not just leading in the state of Florida,
but leading on a national level as well.
To lead we must learn; and to learn we
need to know what our principles need
so we can help them find resources, new
customers, or simply communicate their
operations to others in the community.
We are always eager to meet with any
Marion County business, and the Business Retention team is passionate about
being the vehicle that will lead this
region – and your organization – to great
success! ■
TWO GENERATIONS
SERVING YOU
Experience the
difference!
GREG LORD
AMY (LORD)
JOHSON
PROACTIVE
[proh-ak-tiv]
1. tending to initiate change rather than reacting to
events
2. leads to: Peace of Mind, Transparency, Increased
Productivity, Cost Savings, and Issue Avoidance.
Fixing technology issues is more expensive than
preventing them. 77 Clouds proactive solutions are
designed to save you money and remove technology
headaches through proper systems management.
Private residential estates to large scale
commercial equine operations
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2455 NW 44th Avenue • Ocala, FL 34482 • (352) 732-3276
www.HomesToRanches.com
18
Partner Connections
•
May 2015
To ensure that your network is secure and running
smoothly, we use a combination of cloud based
monitoring and maintenance best practices.
Any issues that could have been avoided will be
prevented, and any issues that could not be
prevented will be fixed faster than ever!
352-229-8545
The NetWorks Groups of the Ocala/Marion County
Chamber & Economic Partnership
By Sadie Fitzpatrick
D
id you know that the CEP has diverse NetWorks groups to
meet our partners’ networking needs?
These Networking programs are made up of small, close-knit
groups (maximum 20 members per group).
The purpose of NetWorks groups is to provide a forum for
professionals of different industries to gather on a regular basis
in order to network, exchange leads, and promote business.
Additionally, group members serve as a trusted advisory source
to their fellow members.
Each group meets twice a month and is business-category
exclusive (no competitors in your group).
Here are the current Networks groups:
First and Third Tuesdays
CEP Promoters: 11:30 A.M. (Bring Your Own Lunch)
Meets @ The Power Plant Business Incubator
405 SE Osceola Avenue
Captain: Keith Wiggins (512) 820-3266
wiggins_keith@yahoo.com
Second and Fourth Tuesdays
Chamber Marketing & Executives Group (CEMG): 8:15 A.M.
Meets at the CEP
310 SE Third Street
Co-Captains: Kyle Yancey (352) 286-6309
kyleyancey@allstate.com
Joel Zellner (352) 361-6123
jzellner@progressiveemployer.com
Second and Fourth Wednesdays
Success Partners: 8:15 A.M.
Meets at the CEP
310 SE Third Street
Captain: Chris Hedrick (352) 208-0980
chedrick@deximaging.com
Second and Fourth Tuesdays
The Stiletto Network: 4:00 P.M.
Meets at The Corkscrew (Downtown)
16 SW Broadway Street
Co-Captains: Lori Dennis (352) 502-2156
loridennis.clearskin@gmail.com
Natalia Moy (352) 857-7377
info@thatshowitsdoneproductions.com
In Formation:
South Marion Network
Captain: Faith Wilt (352) 602-5695
ccandkbookkeepping@gmail.com
In Formation:
Dunnellon/West Marion Network
Captain needed
In Formation:
Young Professionals Network
Captain: John Shannon (352) 282-3021
john.shannon@wjbradley.com ■
77Clouds.com
May 2015
•
Partner Connections
19
exCE P ti onal M o r n i n g s
R ibbon C uttings
May 20, 2015
7:30-9:00 A.M.
Marion County Extension Auditorium
2232 NE Jacksonville Road
Marion County Legislative Delegation
Session Summary
Our speakers will be
delegates from the Marion
County Legislature. Each
delegate will give a summary
of their time during the 2015
legislative session.
O
ur elected officials will give summaries of their time during the 2015
legislative session. They will cover what
bills and laws were enacted during session
and what these may mean to us. Join us for
this informative discussion! ■
April 2: Senor Bubbles East
April 8: Florida Center for the Blind
April 14: Brookdale Canopy Oaks
April 29: DaVita - Ocala West Home Training
Join us to learn what’s
happening in the legislative
world!
Every morning in Ocala
should be an
exceptional morning.
5.20.2015
Photo’s By Simply British
RECENT
Walt’s Brake
On Top of the World
7:30 A.M.
Marion County Extension
Auditorium
2232 NE Jacksonville Road
Senior Bubbles East
Clayton Homes
20
Partner Connections
•
May 2015
May 2015 • Partner Connections
21
2 15
ENTERTAINMENT SERIES
Tickets On Sale Now!
Three Dog Night
MARCH 7
Greatest Hits:
“Mama Told Me Not to Come”
“Joy to the World”
Tickets: $65-69
FEBRUARY 10
FEBRUARY 13
The Lettermen
MARCH 27
Greatest Hit:
“The Way You Look Tonight”
Tickets: $28-32
FEBRUARY 21
FEBRUARY 21
IMPROVEMENT EXPO
AUDITIONS
The World Has Talent
Auditions
The Ultimate
EAGLES
Experience
7 Bridges:
The
Ultimate
Eagles Experience
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Auditions on first come, first
served basis. No entry fee.
Greatest Hit: “Hotel California”
Tickets: $15-17
FREE EVENT
Greatest Hit: “Peggy Sue”
Tickets: $17-19
APRIL 12
APRIL 18
APRIL 25
Opera Tampa
Hands Across the
Highway Art Expo
Extreme Vegas
APRIL 10
Peter Yarrow
(Formerly with Peter, Paul & Mary)
An evening of music and word.
Home Improvement Expo
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Rave On:
A Buddy Holly Tribute
9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Vegas style variety acts.
Tickets: $24-26
Tickets: $22-26
Tickets: $5
(General Admission)
Doors open at 2 p.m.
Show starts at 3 p.m.
MAY 2
MAY 9
JUNE 6
JUNE 20
The 6th Annual “The
World Has Talent” Show
Rockin’ 60s Party
Paul Revere’s Raiders
featuring Mitch Ryder
Live Bait Band: A Tribute
to Jimmy Buffett
Motown Magic: A Tribute
to Motown
Tickets: $14-16
Tickets: $19-21
Greatest Hits: “Leaving On a Jet Plane,” Puff
the Magic Dragon,” “Blowing in the Wind”
Tickets: $11
(General Admission)
Auditions take place on
Feb. 10, 2014, 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.
FREE EVENT
Tickets: $29-33
TICKET OFFICE HOURS: Mon-Sat: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | Day of Show: 11 a.m. - Showtime
All shows begin at 7 p.m. and doors open at 6 p.m. (except as noted)
Gift Certificates Available
8395 SW 80th Street, Ocala, FL 34481 | (352) 854-3670 | CSCulturalCenter.com
Schedule and prices subject to change without notice. Reduced ticket prices are for residents of On Top of the World Communities. (Resident ID required when purchasing at ticket office.) Ticket prices do not
include sales tax. All ticket sales final. Refreshments available for purchase at events. To arrange for handicap seats, call or visit the ticket office. *Online tickets subject to a convenience fee.
#10612-10/14
#10653-12/14
111
May 2015
When Mom became
withdrawn and
inactive, we chose
Socialization plays a leading
role in our well-being, and
we are dedicated to helping
seniors maintain this part of
their health.
Our residents have multiple
opportunities to socialize and
can take comfort knowing
they will see genuine, familiar
faces every day.
Friday, May 1st @ 2 PM • Social Hour
Presented by Lou Katz
Friday, May 8th @ 2 PM • Mother’s Day Trunk Sale
Presented by Bonworth
Thursday, May 14th @ 2 PM • Veterans Seminar
Presented by Operation: Veteran Aid, Gary Marriange, Jr.
Friday, May 15th @ 2 PM • Entertainment
Presented by Mr. October
PLEASE RSVP
Friday, May 22nd @ 2 PM • Social Hour
(352) 873-2036
Presented by Rudy Turner
(000) 000-0000
2800 SW 41st Street, Building 200 • Ocala, FL 34474
www.thebridgeatocala.com