A 5-Star Accredited Chamber of Commerce
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Autonomous Shuttle Embarks on Inaugural Ride in Gainesville
Monday, community leaders celebrated a ribbon cutting and inaugural ride for Gainesville's autonomous shuttle system, set to provide transit between the downtown parking garage and UF Innovate | The Hub. The vehicles can accommodate up to 12 passengers and are a product of innovative French-based transit company Transdev.
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UPCOMING EVENT
U.S. Auto Sales Ribbon Cutting
Friday, February 7, 11am - 2pm
U.S. Auto Sales
1725 N Main Street, Gainesville
U.S. Auto Sales is a car dealership that has been helping people get into cars for 25 years. They promise to make your path to purchasing a vehicle simple & easy and are dedicated to going the extra mile so you don't have to. They currently have 28 stores located in Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Florida. They are excited to be opening their 29th store here in Gainesville!
Join us as we welcome U.S. Auto Sales to the Greater Gainesville region and enjoy refreshments, lunch, music and more!
The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony will commence at 11:30am.
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UPCOMING EVENT
Lunch & Learn
Intentional Diversity: Creating A Workplace that Celebrates our Differences
Wednesday, February 19, Noon - 1pm
Saint Leo University
4650 NW 39th Place, Suite B, Gainesville
Presented by
:
Jason Hurst
Owner / Maple Street Biscuit Company
We are currently living in a society where globalization and diversity of thought continues to expand. More now, than ever, champions for equal rights have created opportunities in our various workplaces where people of different races, genders and socio-economic statuses can come together to work toward common missions and visions. However, there are still some venues and workplaces where it is difficult to attract and retain diverse talent. Diversity is important to any organization as it challenges the status quo and presents solutions to problems from a holistic viewpoint. It can only change with being intentional about the need for it and this event will show you how
Takeaways from this presentation include:
- Recognizing the need for Diversity in Organizations and why it's important
- Understanding where our society is in embracing Diversity in the workplace
- Practical steps on being intentional about having a culture that celebrates and appreciates diversity (without being weird.)
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Presented by Carr, Riggs & Ingram
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UPCOMING EVENT
Join us for Business Before Hours at Jenkins Kia of Gainesville
Tuesday, February 11, 8:30 - 10am
Jenkins Kia of Gainesville
Join us Tuesday, February 11 for Business Before Hours from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at
Jenkins Kia of Gainesville.
Business Before Hours is a structured yet relaxed environment for making effective connections within the Chamber business community.
You may find a strong referral source, a new vendor, the perfect client or simply get a foot in the door for connecting at larger events. Come build lasting business and personal relationships at Business Before Hours. We hope to see you there!
Admission is free with your Chamber membership.
Pre-registration is required as seating is limited to 75 attendees.
FEW SEATS REMAIN!
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UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS
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UPCOMING EVENT
Business After Hours at UF Health – The Oaks
Thursday, February 20, 2020
5:30 – 7 PM
UF Health – The Oaks
6201 W Newberry Road, Gainesville
(Former Sears location at the Oaks Mall)
Join us as we celebrate local business at the Greater Gainesville Chamber Business After Hours hosted by the UF Health - The Oaks at their brand-new location in the Oaks Mall. Enjoy food, drinks, door prizes and great company.
UF Health - The Oaks will feature three specialty practices: ophthalmology, otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat) and audiology moving in late January and early February. These services will be provided by University of Florida faculty in the 139,000-square-foot former Sears space at 6201 W Newberry Road. The facility will also have an outpatient surgical center to support ophthalmology and otolaryngology procedures.
UF Health - The Oaks will also bring changes to other UF Health facilities. The eye practices at the UF Health Medical Plaza on SW Archer Road and at Hampton Oaks on SW 62nd Boulevard will be consolidated at the new Oaks Mall location. In addition, the ENT and audiology practices at Hampton Oaks will also relocate to The Oaks building.
The Chamber’s staff and its enthusiastic Diplomats are available to make introductions to business decision-makers.
Admission is Free for Greater Gainesville Chamber Members.
We hope to see you there!
For more information and to register to attend,
Click Here.
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UPCOMING EVENT
Maximize Your Membership! Attend Chamber 101
Tuesday, February 25, 8:30 - 10am
BBVA
2814 SW 34th Street, Gainesville
New and re-engaged Chamber members are invited for a casual networking breakfast to learn more about the services included in your Chamber Membership. Attendees will interact directly with Chamber Staff, Diplomats and other new Members. Whether you just joined or have been a member for years, this is a beneficial experience for all.
Chamber 101 is held quarterly and is open to any member who may need a refresher on their Chamber member benefits. Longstanding members are encouraged to send new employees through the program so that each company representative can fully utilize the features of their membership.
For more information or to register to attend;
Click Here.
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Chamber 101 is presented by BBVA
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UPCOMING EVENT
CEO InSights featuring Lisa Magary & Della Tuten of Celebrate Primary Care
Wednesday, February 26, 8 - 9:30am
Hippodrome Theater, Gainesville
25 SE 2nd Place, Gainesville
CEO InSights is an event series featuring topic presentations by local presidents, CEOs and other community leaders in an intimate, studio-type setting. The goal is to share personal and timely insights on critical topics including leadership, innovation, culture and more.
Join us Wednesday, February 26th, as our guest speakers will be Lisa Magary and Della Tuten, Co-Owners of Celebrate Primary Care.
There are a few seats still available. Registration is required. A light breakfast will be served.
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SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY
2020 Sponsorships & Advertising Options Available! Announce Your Support for the Gainesville Business Community
Sponsorship and partnership opportunities with the Greater Gainesville Chamber are some of the best ways for your business to gain exposure in the Gainesville region. By aligning your business with a 5-star chamber of commerce with sponsorship or advertising, you help immediately grow your company’s prestige, reputation, exposure and bottom line.
The Chamber is proud to present the 2020 Circle of Champions, where business leaders receive premier marketing and advertising support to help grow their market share and support key initiatives at the Chamber. Through the Circle of Champions, businesses gain exceptional exposure throughout the year with a variety of benefits and price points to fit any budget.
Fantastic 2020 marketing and exposure opportunities, contact Steve Cannon, VP Member Development, at
SteveC@gainesvillechamber.com
or call 352.334-7127.
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UPCOMING EVENT
Gate Recruiting Event
Wednesday, February 5, 10am to 1pm
CareerSource NCFL
Gainesville Career Center
10 NW 6th Street
Sales Associate- Job #11078451
Manager in Training- Job #11080966
Food Service Coordinator- Job #11078056
Assistant Manager in Training- Job #11078401
To Apply:
1. Go to www.employflorida.com
2. Log in or register as a new job seeker.
3. Search for job order # (listed above) and complete referral process. 4. Complete online company application.
5. Attend Recruitment Event at CareerSource NCFL
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UPCOMING EVENT
National Veterans Entrepreneurship Program
Application deadline: February 15, 2020
The National Veterans Entrepreneurship Program (VEP) provides a rigorous entrepreneurial learning and development opportunity for veterans with service-connected disabilities and those who have uniquely distinguished themselves in the military. VEP is designed for veterans interested in starting a new venture as a means to financial independence and for veterans who have an existing business for which they would like to increase profits.
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REMINDER
Hot Jobs through CareerSource NCFL
Each week, CareerSource North Central Florida staff members identify current
Hot Jobs that employers are eager to fill.
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To apply for jobs listed:
- log on to www.employflorida.com
- Click on “Job Search” under “Quick Menu” on the left side of the page
- Select “Job Number Search” from the menu across the top of the page
- Enter the job number from the list above in the “job number” box
- Click on “search”
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POLICY ANNOUNCEMENT
Save the Date—Business Community Candidate Forum
Candidates for Gainesville City Commission
Thursday, February 13, 6pm
Join us on Thursday, February 13th, for the Business Community Forum for candidates for the Gainesville City Commission. The At Large, District 2 and District 3 races will be decided by the 2020 Primary Election on Tuesday, March 17, 2020.
The Business Community Candidate Forum—hosted by the Greater Gainesville Chamber, the Alachua County Association of REALTORS (GACAR) and the Builders Association of North Central Florida (BANCF)—will be held at Scorpio Construction, 3911 W. Newberry Road, Gainesville, 32607, starting at 6:00 p.m.
This event is free and open to the public, and refreshments will be served. Please register today to reserve your spot.
Click here to view our Candidates’ Questionnaires to learn more about the candidates running for the Gainesville City Commission:
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POLICY ANNOUNCEMENT
We’re Counting on You! The 2020 Census is on its Way
April 1 is Census Day
The core value of COLLABORATE 2025—our newly launched, five-year strategy—is an ambitious one: to raise levels of prosperity and improve the quality of life for all current and future Greater Gainesville residents. One simple way to help move that needle forward is to participate in the 2020 Census.
The Greater Gainesville Chamber, in concert with Alachua County, the City of Gainesville, UF Health, UF and Santa Fe, along with other partners, is committed to helping ensure our County gets a complete Census count this year. We were surprised—and not a little dismayed—to learn that the estimated undercount for Alachua County in 2010 was 33,827 people, which resulted in a $320 million estimated loss of federal funds over the last 10 years. It’s not hard to come up with a quick list of how we could have put that money to good use!
We will keep you informed on ways you can help with the Census effort in the coming weeks. Visit
countingonyou.us
for more information on local and national efforts.
And here are a few fast facts, compiled by the Associated Press, to kick off the first round of Census counting underway in Alaska.
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Join us in welcoming the following businesses who made the decision to join our Chamber in January 2020 and support our local business community.
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86 Studios
AITP-NCFL
Christine Jimenez - Florida Homes Realty Mortgage
Covered With Care
Cruise Planners CycleBar Gainesville
Debbie Cooper – Transformational Health Coach
DEFY Gainesville
Duval Commercial Vehicle Solutions Elegant Body Pilates
Economic and Market Research Associates
Fyzical Therapy & Balance Center
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Heritage Payment Solutions
Mosquito Joe of Gainesville
Labavitch-Chabad
Natural Awakenings
New Education for the Workplace, Inc.
Newk’s Eatery
Papa John’s Phillip & Wiley Mortuary
Sacred Leaf
Service Dogs for Patriots SISYFLY
Squeaky Klean Services Women’s Lift Lab
Veteran Nation Real Estate Professionals
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For additional information on all businesses in the Gainesville Region who support our business community through Chamber membership, visit our online
Business Directory.
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MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENT
Last Chance to Register: 10th Annual Gainesville Real Estate Forum
Thursday, February 6, 4:30 – 7:00 pm
Best Western Gateway Grand
4200 NW 97 Blvd., Gainesville
The Beery Rainsberger Group has joined forces with James Moore & Company to present the 10th annual Gainesville Real Estate Forum to be held on Thursday, Feb. 6, 2020.
The highlight of this year’s event will be a panel-style discussion with top local and national industry leaders on hot topics such as a commercial real estate economic outlook from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, commercial and residential property trends and issues, the University of Florida’s master plan of development, affordable housing, and more!
As always, space is limited and the event WILL sell out! Register now to secure your space.
Refreshments: Appetizers, beer, wine, soft drinks and water
Sponsored By: CenterState Bank
Website: gainesvillereforum.com
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UPCOMING EVENT
Tour of Kitchens
Saturday, February 8, 10 am – 4 pm
The Tour of Kitchens is The Junior League of Gainesville’s largest fundraising event. It is a self-guided tour of beautiful kitchens and outdoor spaces of lovely homes throughout the area. It includes gourmet samplings from the area’s best restaurants and caterers.
BENEFITS
As one of the Junior League of Gainesville’s most loved events, the Tour generates over $25,000 annually. Proceeds support the Junior League of Gainesville’s mission and our
Action Against Hunger initiative.
Our mission is to promote voluntarism, develop the potential of women, and improve our communities through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.
Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. Through our Action Against Hunger initiative, we advocate at the local and state government level to help decrease food insecurity for children. We work directly with the
Food4Kids Backpack Program of North Florida
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TICKETS
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MEMBER CONTRIBUTION
Cox Media Digital Marketing Workshop
Friday, February 13, 10am - 1pm
Aloft Hotel
3743 Hull Road, Gainesville
Corey Perlman’s presentation unpacks the sales process and provides a step-by-step plan for winning business on social media. With 10+ years as a digital marketing consultant, he shares well-tested techniques on how his clients generate leads, build credibility, close the sale and turn happy customers into repeat business and referral partners.
No matter your profession, you can either win (or lose) business with what you’re doing on the web.
Key Takeaways:
• Decide where to plant your flag and prioritize the right social sites
• Stay top of mind by capitalizing on Instagram Stories and Facebook Video.
• Recognize common website mistakes and stop sabotaging your visitor's experience.
• Manage your online reputation: Limit negative reviews and gain 5-star ratings.
• Amplify your content to increase engagement and conversions
Continue the conversation over lunch provided by Cox Media from 12:15 p.m. to 1 p.m.
*The first 30 people to RSVP will have a chance to win a Multi-Screen Creative Package, valued at $2,000! Includes custom production of video and display ad sizes for every screen: TV, Computer, Tablet, and Smartphone. Must be present at the workshop to win.
Who Should Attend:
This workshop is designed for small business owners and sales and marketing professionals who want to generate leads, build credibility, and close sales using the digital platforms we have available in today’s modern workplace.
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UPCOMING EVENT
Guest Chef Gainesville 2020
Thursday, April 2, 6:30 - 9pm
Cade Museum
811 S Main St, Gainesville
The 19th Annual Guest Chef Gainesville presented by Cox Communications will be taking place at the Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention on Thursday, April 2, 2020 to benefit Peaceful Paths Domestic Violence Network.
This year, 35 home chefs will be joining Melanie Shore & Bobbie Robinson, our 2020 Featured Chefs, to prepare their favorite dish! We are thrilled to welcome the UF Women's Soccer Coach, Becky Burleigh, as our 2020 Emcee. In addition to all the delicious food, guests will enjoy an extensive silent auction, a massive wine wall raffle, and entertainment by Richy Stano and Chelsea. To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or donate an auction item, please visit
www.guestchefgainesville.com
. If you have any questions, you can email the event team @
guestchef@peacefulpaths.org
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MEMBER NEWS
Santa Fe CIED Monthly Entrepreneurship Workshop
Wednesday, February 12, 10am - Noon
Santa Fe CIED
530 W University Ave, Gainesville
The Center for Innovation and Economic Development (CIED) offers a monthly Entrepreneurship Workshop Series dedicated to the growth of early to mid-stage business ventures. Past topics have included Defining Your Business Strategy, Starting a Non-Profit, Proactive Risk Management and Creating a Company Culture. These workshops occur the second Wednesday of every month from 10:00am until noon at the CIED (530 West University Ave.). All Greater Gainesville Chamber of Commerce members are welcome to attend these workshops free of charge. For more information, click
here.
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MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENT
Why Participate in the Preferred Employer Program?
Since 1971, Palms Medical Group has continued to provide top quality comprehensive primary care services to the residents of our community. As a business we know that staff illness leads to higher absenteeism, poorer health, costly staff turnover, and increased insurance premiums.
WHAT WORK-RELATED SERVICES DOES PALMS PROVIDE?
1. Pre-Employment Physicals
2. DOT Physicals
3. Workers Compensation Visits
4. Drug Testing
5. Priority walk-in status (during working hours)
6. Access to Disease Management/Prevention/Education
7. Access to Pharmacy Services
8. Annual Blood Pressure Screenings On-site
9. Annual Blood Sugar Screenings On-site (when available)
10. Flu Vaccination On-site (when available)
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