Manatee Memorial Hospital is proud to have completed 2,000 WATCHMAN FLX® procedures – placing us among the top 10 hospitals in the nation for this procedure in stroke risk reduction.*
For patients with atrial fibrillation (AFib) not caused by a heart valve problem, the WATCHMAN Left Atrial Appendage Closure (LAAC) Implant may offer:
• Reduced risk of stroke
• An alternative to lifelong blood thinners
• Minimally invasive treatment and quicker recovery
Left to Right: Daniel Friedman, MD, FACC, FHRS, Watchman Program Director | Jagan Akella, MD | Jared Collins, DO | Joseph Pace, MD
MAILING ADDRESS
P.O. Box 321
Bradenton, FL 34206-0321
BRADENTON OFFICE
222 10th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205
LAKEWOOD RANCH OFFICE AT THE MCCLURE CENTER 4215 Concept Ct. Lakewood Ranch, FL 34211
Info@ManateeChamber.com ManateeChamber.com
Phone: 941-748-3411
Fax: 941-745-1877
MISSION:
To build a positive business environment while enhancing the community’s quality of life.
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s Current magazine is published in print and digitally bi-monthly and distributed to more than 7,000 businesses and community leaders. It is an advertising medium available only to Chamber members.
FOR ADVERTISING RATES CONTACT: Jocelyn Vedder Greene 941-748-4842, ext. 116 or JocelynG@ManateeChamber.com
The Current magazine is proudly published by CG&B Publishing, LLC of Bradenton.
2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Chair Stu Henderson, Fawley Bryant Architecture
Immediate Past Chair Janelle VanHoose, Esq., Esposito Law Group, P.A.
Chair-Elect Justin Phillips, Minuteman Press of Bradenton
Treasurer Jackie Barron, The Mosaic Company
Vice Chair, Membership & Communications
Vice Chair, Public Policy
Vice Chair, Workforce & Community Development
Dr. Bill Colgate
Eleni Sokos, Oysters Rock Hospitality
Jason Bartz, NDC Construction Company
President | CEO Jacki Dezelski, IOM, Manatee Chamber of Commerce
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mark Barnebey Esq., Blalock Walters, P.A.
Mike Bear, DEX Imaging, Inc.
Richard Bedford, REAL Consulting, LLC
Charlie Bishop, Manatee County Government (Ex Officio)
Mayor Gene Brown, City of Bradenton (Ex Officio)
Carlos Buqueras, SeaPort Manatee (Ex Officio)
Nathan Carr, Willis Smith Construction, Inc.
Kevin Chapman, School District of Manatee County (Ex Officio)
Nick Choat, Sport Clips Haircuts of Bradenton
Chad Choate, School Board of Manatee County (Ex Officio)
Annie Clark, Clark Financial Partners
Bernitha Copeland, Copeland Full Line Insurance, Inc.
Darcie Duncan, Duncan Real Estate, Inc.
Mark Dunlop, Florida Sleep Specialists
Joseph Dunn, ABC7-WWSB
Chris Edwards, Kona Ice of Manatee County
Tami Goudy, Veritas! Pest Management, LLC
Andy Guz, Manatee Health
Sherod Halliburton, Credit Union 1
Sharon Hillstrom, Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation
Jamie Kahns, Bank of America
MANATEE CHAMBER STAFF
Kristen Brusco, Member Services Coordinator
Kaylee Carpentier, Member Events Coordinator
Kim Dalglish, IOM, Vice President, Membership
Jacki Dezelski, IOM, President | CEO
Bruno Kapacinskas, Southwest Florida Water Management District (Ex Officio)
Dr. Brett Kemker, University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee Campus (Ex Officio)
Commissioner George Kruse, Manatee County Government (Ex Officio)
Melissa Larkin-Skinner, Community Assisted and Supported Living, Inc. (CASL)
Brooke Mailloux, The Keyes Company
Jonathan Marsh, Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton
Joshua Matlock, CareerSource Suncoast (Ex Officio)
Ray Morris, Pittsburgh Pirates Baseball Club
Bruce Patneaude, Nathan Benderson Park Conservancy Inc.
Rick Piccolo, Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (Ex Officio)
Chris Perkins, SouthState Bank
Dr. Brittany Pyjas, State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota (Ex Officio)
Dr. Mitchel Ruzek, New College of Florida (Ex Officio)
Mayor Dan West, City of Palmetto (Ex Officio)
Michael Willats, Esq., Dinsmore & Shohl LLP
Derek Williams, Drift-In AMI; Fiduciary Shield, LLC; Williams Wealth Management Group, Inc.
Tim Fenimore, Membership Development Representative
Karla Fernandez, Public Policy & Administrative Coordinator
Tonya Kida, Member Events Manager
Jocelyn Vedder Greene, Creative Services Manager
Debbie McDermott, Member Programs Director
Carey Miller, Vice President, Operations
Liza Minteer, Membership Development Representative
Eddie Parmenter, Information Specialist
Cheryl Richert, Controller of Finance
Julie Sewell, Information Specialist
Dan Yonko, Marketing & Communications Director
KristenB@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 130
KayleeC@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 172
KimD@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 121
JackiD@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 131
TimF@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 241
KarlaF@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 235
TonyaK@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 122
JocelynG@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 116
DebbieM@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 117
CareyM@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 113
LizaM@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 139
EddieP@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 100
CherylR@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 115
JulieS@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 200
DanY@ManateeChamber.com, ext. 275
from the president
Creating a Future That Is Built on a Strong Foundation
In each issue of the Current magazine, my goal is to use the "President's message" to highlight the importance of the Manatee Chamber's mission, the critical need for business leadership, and the difference that our members' investment makes. This month's issue - in fact, these two facing pages - are a perfect juxtaposition of how our Chamber has been built by the business community over more than 135 years and how our focus is on the future. Several years ago, we began honoring members with an incredible 50 years or more of continuous investment in the Manatee Chamber's mission. The "Golden Member" recognitions shared below demonstrate how we serve a diverse membership and, thanks to many decades of strong business and employer leadership, remain relevant to the needs of an expanding business community in our region.
I am fortunate to have been on our Chamber team for 29 years, and, hands down, our members are incredibly talented, generous, and forward-thinking. Year after year, we accomplish new things while recognizing the rock-solid foundation upon which more opportunities are built.
The call for Chamber member volunteers, shared on the next page, highlights one of our many education and workforce initiatives that seek to create an even stronger pipeline of talent for the future. Our members consistently tell us that their employees are their most important asset and that they require an even more qualified and abundant workforce in order to grow. The Chamber's Big Bank Theory program will engage hundreds of members just like you who will commit to a day (or half-day) to volunteer with us to strengthen the financial literacy skills of our future workforce. Please consider joining us to build brighter futures.
And, on the cover of this month's issue, we feature the leaders of our Manatee Young Professionals (MYP) program. Back when I was still a "young professional", this program was a game-changer for me and my peers. It helped me learn new things, hone my leadership skills, grow my network, and have a stronger voice. I hope that you will encourage every young professional in your organization to join MYP.
Jacki Dezelski, IOM, President|CEO Manatee Chamber of Commerce
Golden Member Celebration
Honoring 50+ Years of Manatee Chamber Investment Goodwill Manasota
Goodwill Manasota has been a loyal member of the Manatee Chamber for 50 years. Thank you for your continued investment in the Chamber's mission and your dedication to serving our region.
Pictured above are Manatee Chamber Vice President Kim Dalglish, Goodwill President and CEO Donn Githens and Chamber President|CEO Jacki Dezelski.
Golden Member Celebration
Honoring 50+ Years of Manatee Chamber Investment Boyd Insurance and Investment Services
Boyd Insurance and Investment Services has been a loyal member of the Manatee Chamber for 53 years. We appreciate your continued recognition of the importance of the Chamber's mission and your service to our community.
Pictured back row: Sue Evangelisti, Kristy Terenzio, Nick Zec, Jerilynn Chapin, Jim Boyd, Austin Boyd, Jacki Dezelski, Kayla Baum, Pam Gillette, Russ Dozeman, Savana Clifton. Front row: Bixby Hartley, Summer Clifton, Sarah McAllister.
education & workforce
Volunteers Needed for Big Bank Theory for 2025 - 2026 School Year
The Manatee Chamber’s Big Bank Theory program teaches high school seniors the importance of budgeting, saving money, and prioritizing spending decisions. Students are engaged in a handson, real-life financial simulation that introduces them to the realities of personal finances. They gain valuable experience paying bills and making daily decisions that are essential to being a responsible adult. We could use your help!
We Need You
It takes hundreds of Chamber member volunteers to successfully execute this program in every Manatee County high school. These students are our future workforce – and your future employees. The following dates have been finalized, as of print deadline:
November 3 & 4 - Bayshore High School
November 13 & 14 - Manatee High School
November 18 & 19 - Southeast High School
December 1 & 2 - Palmetto High School
December 9 & 10 - Braden River High School
January 15 & 16 - Parrish Community High School
January 22 - Team Success
January 29 & 30 - Lakewood Ranch High School
School dates, as they become available, will be updated on our website at ManateeChamber.com/BigBank.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Carey Miller at CareyM@ManateeChamber.com. Full-day and half-day volunteer slots are available, and we promise to make it easy and fun for all involved.
Big Bank Volunteer Orientation Dates
October 7 at 4:00 PM - Manatee Chamber Bradenton Office
October 30 at 8:00 AM - Manatee Chamber Bradenton Office
November 17 at 1:30 PM - via Zoom Sponsorships are available, offering great visibility for your business.
STATION SPONSORS: SUPPORTING SPONSORS: PRESENTING SPONSOR:
LUNCH SPONSORS:
Spice Box Lunch Delivery and Catering | Chicken Salad Chick | David J. Reali, CPA
Big Bank Theory volunteers visit Manatee County schools to guide hands-on activities designed to teach high school seniors about financial literacy
2025-2026 Leadership Manatee Class Announced
The Board of Governors of Leadership Manatee is pleased to announce the selection of the 2025-2026 class. Leadership Manatee, a program of the Manatee Chamber Foundation in partnership with Bradenton Kiwanis, is designed to expose business and community leaders to the opportunities and challenges facing Manatee County while honing their leadership skills to make a difference in our community. Congratulations to the 42nd Leadership Manatee Class!
Andi Adams, Oysters Rock Hospitality
John Agnelli, Boys & Girls Clubs of Manatee County
Lisa Bell, Manatee County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller
Michael Bragano, Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC
James Cardwell II, Turning Points
Dan Carroll, Pittsburgh Pirates
Jamara Clark, School District of Manatee County
Jessica Crawford, Esposito Law Group, P.A.
Amariah Dawes, Johnson Messal Bristow PLLC
Zachary Earles, Express Employment Professionals
Ivy Edme Etienne, Bank OZK
Alex Emrich, Bradenton Police Department
Adriana Garcia, IMG Academy
Stephanie Garrison, Manatee County Government –Government Relations
April Green, Duncan Real Estate, Inc.
Beronica Johnson, Avenue941
Brad Johnson, Manatee County Sheriff's Office
Aarti Lalwani, MCR Health
Rachel Layton, Manatee County Government –Development Services
Chris Lepper, Willis Smith Construction, Inc.
Yanet Lopez, Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation
Kate Massey, IMG Academy Foundation
Melissa McLin, Blue Collar Roofing
Brian Miller, SouthState Bank
Cara Misiewicz, Office of U.S. Representative Vern Buchanan
Kaveecia Moore, Manatee County Habitat for Humanity
Matt Myers, Manatee County Government –Emergency Management
Trish Rand, State College of Florida – Academic & Faculty Affairs
Katie Reeves, Pace Center for Girls
Ben Rigney, West Manatee Fire and Rescue District
Juan Pablo Salas, UnidosNow
Crystal Scherer, Manatee County Government – Sports & Leisure
Mac Schmitz, Manatee Community Foundation
Dannie Sherrill, Sherrill Wealth Management
Brian Slator, Fawley Bryant Architecture
John Taylor, Ralph Taylor’s Nurseries
Josh Tomlinson, McIntyre Elwell & Strammer General Contractors
Jordan Touro, NDC Construction Company
Danielle Vieira, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Sarasota
Reese Vita, The Milestone Financial Group at Morgan Stanley
Edyta Votour, The Bank of Tampa
Christina Witt, CareerSource Suncoast
Dan Yonko, Manatee Chamber of Commerce
Haley Yursky-Fischer, State College of Florida – Student CARE Services
Kalee Zavela, Town of Longboat Key
France Magnifique
12 Days | Starts at $6,299 per person
Enjoy a 12-day trip to France with 16 meals with airfare from Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. Departure Date is October 8, 2026. Trip highlights include: Versailles Palace & Gardens, Giverny*, Normandy, D-Day Landing Sites, Omaha Beach, American Cemetery, Le Mont St. Michel, Loire Valley, Winery Tour, Chenonceau Castle, Seine River Cruise, Eiffel Tower Dinner. Visit
at
113
AWARD-WINNING HEALTHCARE STARTS HERE
We proudly celebrate the outstanding work of those who have gone above and beyond in advancing the health and well-being of our community.
Every year, the Manatee Chamber of Commerce’s Champions of Healthcare Awards recognize the work of those whose unwavering commitment and compassion make a lasting impact on the well-being of Manatee County. This year, we are proud to honor three remarkable winners who embody the missionof Manatee Health.
ELIZABETH BROWN Allied Health Professional Award Winner
DIANE AUBREY, ARNP Nurse Award Winner
MANATEE HEART AND VASCULAR CENTER Innovation/Research Award Winner
myp manatee young professionals
MYP Upcoming Events
Social
Thursday, September 18 | 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Good Liquid Brewing Company
8980 US Hwy 301 N. #138, Parrish
Raise a glass and make new connections during an evening of great brews, lively conversation, and relaxed networking with fellow young professionals. With four area locations Good Liquid offers something for everyone including fun daily themes, weekly trivia nights, lake front dining, weekend brunch, a retail store, and a beer wall.
Free for MYP Members | $20 Future MYP Members
Lunch
Thursday, September 30 | 11:45 AM - 1:00 PM
enRich Bistro
5239 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton
Discover how local economic development shapes your future at this luncheon featuring Sharon Hillstrom, President & CEO of the Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC).
Learn how the EDC works to attract and retain businesses, create quality jobs, and strengthen our region’s economy. Sharon will also share insights into how the EDC’s work impacts young professionals—both now and in shaping the future of our community.
$25 for MYP Members | $35 Future MYP Members
Community Service Project
Saturday, October 4 | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Desoto Boys & Girls Club
5236 30th St. W., Bradenton
Team up with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast for a fun and meaningful day with local Littles at the Boys & Girls Club who are currently waiting to be matched with a Big. MYP volunteers will connect with these awesome kids through games, activities, and Halloween-themed fun—think pumpkins, crafts, and plenty of smiles!
This is a one-day, no-pressure opportunity to show up, hang out, and make a child’s day brighter. Give a Little their moment to shine, experience what being a Big is all about, and build connections with fellow community-minded professionals.
Free for MYP Members Only
Crystal Scherer, Brooke Mailloux, and Cassie White enjoy the view at Nathan Benderson Park following the June MYP lunch.
MYP members tour Big Top Brewers Collective and learned about their brewing process.
MYP members and leaders packed the January Coffee & Conversation for the first Champions of MYP event, joined by the Chamber’s Executive Committee, MYP Sponsors, and Chamber Ambassadors.
At the August Social, Chamber Committee Chairs and MYP members made new connections, shared opportunities for service, and encouraged future involvement.
Leadership with Vision
The Manatee Young Professionals (MYP) program has been connecting, developing, and empowering young leaders since 1999. In recent years, that mission has gained fresh momentum - with updated programming, stronger Chamber partnerships, and a renewed focus on building longterm community impact.
The MYP Leadership Committee, led in 2025 by Chair Brooke Mailloux, The Keyes Company, guides the program’s direction, taking a big-picture approach to setting priorities, shaping events, and advocating for issues that make Manatee County a place where young professionals want to live, work, and stay. Their leadership ensures MYP remains both innovative and influential.
Encouraging MYP participation, offering new opportunities, and fostering connections for young professionals is one of the Chamber’s key leadership initiatives to attract and retain top talent in the region. To further champion growth and connection, Immediate Past Chair Cassie White, Terry Mortgage Team, introduced new programming such as behind-the-scenes tours and creative networking formats like the Minute Mixer Lunch.
This year’s Young Professional of the Year and 2026 Incoming MYP Chair Kellie Spring, SERVPRO of Bradenton, understands the value of community involvement - a principle instilled by her family. She is excited to build on the momentum created by Brooke, Cassie, and past Chairs, while continuing MYP’s recent growth.
Expanding Opportunities - Champions of MYP
Last year, MYP launched the MYP Mentor Program, pairing young professionals with experienced members for guidance, networking support, and leadership insight. What began as a pilot program has already produced meaningful cross-industry connections, and it’s still in its early stages.
This year’s debut of the Champions of MYP initiative further expands members’ access to mentorship, visibility, and engagement across the Chamber. Through collaboration between MYP sponsors, the Chamber’s Executive Committee, and area business leaders, these champions are opening new doors, encouraging involvement, and providing direct access to leadership - aligning perfectly with the Chamber’s broader leadership initiatives.
For highlights from recent Champions of MYP events, see the photos to the left.
Get Your Young Professionals Involved
If your company has emerging leaders, give them the tools, connections, and opportunities they need to thrive - and help keep top talent in Manatee County.
Don’t just grow your career, help shape the future of Manatee County. Connect with peers, learn from mentors, and make an impact through MYP. Call Debbie McDermott at 941-748-4842 ext. 117 or visit MYPonline.com.
Manatee Young Professionals Building Tomorrow, Today
On the Cover: The Manatee Young Professionals Leadership Committee is building the future with fresh ideas, stronger connections, and bold partnerships — including this year’s Champions of MYP initiative with Chamber leadership. Together, they’re creating new opportunities for young professionals and strengthening the pipeline of talent for our region.
Pictured on the cover: (top row) Bixby Hartley, Kellie Spring, Aubrie Stevens-Polson, and Shawn Osborne; (bottom row) Melissa Munker, Justin Phillips, Brooke Mailloux, Haley Yursky-Fischer, and Cassie White. (Not pictured Molly White)
Thank you to Carol Danisi, Director of Catering and Events, with the Palmetto Marriott Resort and Spa for providing the stunning photo location.
How to Do Business with Local Government
Are you interested in selling your products or services to local government agencies but aren’t sure where to start?
Join us for a powerful panel discussion featuring representatives from local government and educational institutions to learn about their purchasing process.
Our panel will include representatives from:
• City of Bradenton
• Manatee County Government
• School District of Manatee County
• SeaPort Manatee
• State College of Florida Manatee-Sarasota
Whether you're a contractor, consultant, supplier, or service provider, this seminar will equip you with practical tools and insider knowledge to help you grow your business through public-sector work.
This is a must-attend for small businesses looking to expand into government contracting - reserve your seat today! What You’ll Learn:
• How to register as a vendor with various local entities
• What types of goods and services government agencies typically purchase
• How and where to find open bids and RFPs
• Tips to strengthen your proposals and navigate procurement policies
• How to access opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses
Access to Capital: Funding Options for Small Businesses
Presented by: Credit Union 1, Small Business Development Council (SBDC), SCORE Manasota
Discover real-world funding solutions designed to help small businesses at every stage, from startup to growth, by learning how to identify and secure the right type of capital.
Our expert panelists will demystify the funding process by walking you through the steps to prepare for loan applications, strengthen your financial standing, and improve your chances of approval.
This seminar will ensure you leave with clarity, confidence, and actionable advice.
Key Takeaways:
• A clear understanding of the different types of small business funding options (loans, lines of credit, microloans, and alternative financing).
• What lenders look for when evaluating a business for financing, including credit readiness, financial statements, and business plans.
• Free resources available to local businesses to help strengthen loan applications, improve credit worthiness, and plan for sustainable growth.
• Tips for building strong banking relationships that support long-tern financial success.
Tuesday, September 23
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Manatee Chamber | Bradenton Office Air & Energy Board Room
events
Join
Tuesday, September 9
4:30 - 6:30 PM
MIDFLORIDA Credit Union
5905 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton
Tuesday, October 14
4:30 - 6:30 PM
Town Square at University Parkway 8450 Lockwood Ridge Rd., Unit 55, Sarasota
Start
Thursday, September 25
8:00 - 9:30 AM
Dinkers
Thursday, October 23
8:00 - 9:30 AM
Boys & Girls Club, Desoto Branch 5236 30th St. W., Bradenton
One Connection Can Make the Difference!
Enjoy a tasty meal, promote your business, and make great connections. Limited to 40 attendees (one per company). Plan to give a one-minute commercial on your business. Register early as these events always sell out!
POWER CONNECTION LUNCH
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Wednesday, September 3
Hilton Garden Inn 8270 N. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota
Wednesday, September 17
Del Taco 5423 14th St. W., Bradenton
Wednesday, October 1
Scarpino's Classic Italian 6152 14th St. W., Bradenton
Wednesday, October 15
Courtyard by Marriott 8305 Tourist Center Dr., University Park
Registration Required Cost to Attend: $25
ManateeChamber.com/Events or Contact Kaylee Carpentier 941-748-4842, ext. 172 | KayleeC@ManateeChamber.com
SPONSORED BY:
New to the Chamber or need to brush up on your member benefits? Learn more about the Manatee Chamber, meet the staff, and let us help you take full advantage of your membership.
ManateeChamber.com/Events or Contact Kristen Brusco 941-748-4842, ext. 130 | KristenB@ManateeChamber.com
coffee club
We are thankful to partner with the Manatee Chamber and Rosedale Golf & Country Club to host this event.
Peace River Electric Cooperative started in 1940 by local residents who wanted to provide themselves with electricity. At that time, no investor-owned electric utility would serve sparsely populated rural areas since it would reduce their profits. Over 85 years later, our service area is now divided into 9 geographic districts, extending from Ruskin on Florida’s west coast to near Vero Beach on the state’s eastern shore. We service more than 70,000 homes and businesses in central Florida. Peace River Electric Cooperative maintains approximately 4,200 miles of overhead and underground power lines and have offices in Bradenton, Wauchula, and Indian Lakes. We currently have approximately 125 employees.
Peace River Electric Cooperative takes pride in partnering with the Manatee Chamber and giving back through scholarships, charitable donations, and more. Thank you to all who attended Coffee Club. We look forward to continuing our commitment to serving our community.
PEACE RIVER ELECTRIC CO-OP, INC.
14505 Arbor Green Trail, Lakewood Ranch 863-767-4654 | preco.coop
coffee club
Our July Coffee Club & Non-Profit Showcase was a tremendous success as we enjoyed a morning filled with community connection, collaboration, and inspiration. We were thrilled to welcome over 200 attendees who came together to network, enjoy light breakfast bites and coffee, and most importantly, support and learn about the incredible work being done by our local non-profit community. This year, we proudly showcased 32 non-profit organizations, each sharing their mission, volunteer opportunities, and ways our members can support or get involved.
This special event highlights the heart of our community and the many charitable organizations that are making a lasting impact every day. A heartfelt thank you to the Manatee River Fair Association for allowing us to use their beautiful event space. Your support helped make this event even more meaningful. We’re grateful to all who attended and contributed to the vibrant energy of the morning. We look forward to continuing to support our non-profit community and providing our members with opportunities to engage, give back, and grow together.
NON-PROFIT SHOWCASE AT MANATEE FAIRGROUNDS 1402 14th Ave. W., Palmetto 941-722-1639 | manateecountyfair.com
July
business after hours
The Humane Society of Manatee County (HSMC) continues to expand our services to serve animals in need in our community. Our 10,000 sq. ft. Veterinary Clinic offers low cost spay/neuter (free if qualified), wellness, x-rays, state-of-the-art dental procedures and is proud to announce our latest service: dermatology. The goal is to find the root cause of skin issues and treat to eliminate, not just mask, the symptoms. All of these services are offered at low to moderate cost to pet owners.
The Second Chance Adoption Center finds homes for more than 600 dogs and cats annually. Many of these animals have medical conditions that other area shelters are not able to or willing to treat. The dogs and cats in the shelter are cared for until they are adopted, no matter what the time period may be. In addition, more than 1,500 lbs. of food are distributed monthly through our Pet Food Pantry, helping those financially challenged owners with pet food so they do not have to surrender their four-legged family members. We are grateful to our donors, volunteers and grantors, whose support allows us to care for the thousands of owned and homeless dogs and cats that come through our doors every year.
Thank you, Manatee Chamber members, for taking time out of your busy schedules to stop at the Business After Hours event. We love hosting this event to showcase the continued expansion of our HSMC campus made possible by the amazing support of our community. You, the members, are such an important part of this community and we are so proud to be members of the Manatee Chamber.
Rick Yocum, CNE / Executive Director, Humane Society of Manatee County
HUMANE SOCIETY OF MANATEE COUNTY 2515 14th St. W., Bradenton 941-727-6944 | humanemanatee.org
business after hours
The Turning Points team of staff and volunteers was honored to host the Manatee Chamber’s July Business After Hours. Thank you for spending the evening with us, exploring our campus, and learning more about our mission. Your thoughtful questions and encouraging words meant a lot—and we hope it’s just the beginning of a deeper partnership.
Your presence reminded us that this work doesn’t happen in isolation. Every shower, medical visit, or moment of relief we provide is made possible by a community that believes in second chances, stability, and dignity. When local businesses like yours engage with our mission, families facing crisis find support they never knew existed— and often, a path forward they didn’t think was possible.
Contact Margi Dawson at mdawson@tpmanatee.org to RSVP or schedule a private tour. We’d love to see you again.
If you're interested in volunteering or setting up a donation drive please contact Carolyn at cnielsen@tpmanatee.org.
Thank you again for your time, your interest, and your support!
TURNING POINTS
701 17th Ave. W., Bradenton 941-747-1509 | tpmanatee.org
8237 Cooper Creek Blvd. Bradenton, FL 34201 941-355-2884 animalerofuniversitypark.com
12th St. W. Bradenton, FL 34205 844-272-2339 ballerzpinballcafe.com
3115 18th Ct. W. Bradenton, FL 34205 941-587-5678 helptohome.org
7185 SR 64 E. Bradenton, FL 34212 941-527-0015
longhornsteakhouse.com
9516 Cortez Rd. Bradenton, FL 34210 941-216-4119
porkbellyseatery.com
S. School Ave., 5th Floor
8546 Heritage Green Way Bradenton, FL 34212 800-577-4200 smoothieking.com
515 9th St. E., Ste. 201 Bradenton, FL 34208 941-799-0683 premiere-collection.com
member news
Ad-VANCE Talent Solutions, Inc. welcomes Wendy Dees to the team.
Blalock Walters congratulates Mark P. Barnebey, Charles F. Johnson III, Fred E. Moore, Matthew R. Plummer, William C. Robinson, Jr., Scott E. Rudacille, Jenifer Schembri, and Clifford L. Walters III for being recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 list.
Bradenton Kiwanis Club was recognized as Florida's Club of the Year. Clerk of Circuit Court Manatee County is proud to congratulate Jennifer Linzy, APR, CPRC on becoming a certified PR counselor.
Lakewood Ranch has once again earned the No. 1 spot in the nation as the top-selling multigenerational masterplanned community in the country.
Lakewood Ranch Medical Center was named a Blue Distinction® Center for Spine Surgery and Knee and Hip Replacements for 2025 and has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain - MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2025.
ribbon cuttings
Manatee County Government announces that Manatee County EMS was recently awarded the “Mission: Lifeline EMS” Gold achievement award, the highest level awarded by the American Heart Association’s program.
Manatee Health is excited to share that the ER at Bayshore Gardens has been recognized by the American Heart Association with the Get with The Guidelines - Coronary Artery Disease STEMI Referring Center Bronze Award. They have also names Judy Young, MBA, BSN, RN, as the new Chief Nursing Officer (CNO).
Manatee Performing Arts Center broke ground on Sara's Studios, a 31,000 sq. ft. performing arts conservatory that will provide space for arts education, workshops, rehearsal, and will serve as the permanent home of The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota.
Manatee Technical College honored Maura Howl, Supervisor of Communications & Grants Management with the 2025 FACTE Lifetime
Palma Sola Botanical Park selected Kristin Mead, Bill Steeves, and Karen Paul as the 2024-2025 Volunteers of the Year for their outstanding dedication to the park.
Riddell Law Group is happy to announce Cynthia Riddell has achieved Board Certification in Real Estate Law by the Florida Bar.
The Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority (SMAA) is pleased to announce the unanimous selection of Paul Hoback Jr. as the incoming President and Chief Executive Officer for Sarasota Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) Fire Department has been upgraded to Advanced Life Support (ALS) for Enhanced Emergency Medical Care.
SeaPort Manatee congratulates Virginia Zimmermann, APR on earning her Accreditation in Public Relations.
Smiley Pool Services congratulates Sheila Smillie, who obtained her Certified Pool Operator (CPO) certification, and Cameron Smillie, who obtained his OSHA 10 certification.
