Category Archives

- Ask the Expert
- Community Events
- Community Leaders
- Community News
- Events
- Job Openings
- Member News
- News
- Partners & Sponsors
- Random Rants
- Volunteerism


Monthly Archives

- February 2010
- January 2010
- December 2009
- November 2009
- October 2009
- September 2009
- August 2009
- July 2009
- June 2009
- May 2009
- April 2009
- March 2009
- February 2009
- January 2009
- December 2008
- November 2008
- October 2008
- September 2008
- August 2008
- July 2008
- June 2008
- May 2008
- April 2008
- March 2008
- February 2008
- January 2008
- December 2007
- November 2007
- October 2007
- September 2007
- August 2007
- July 2007
- June 2007
- May 2007
- March 2007
- February 2007
- January 2007
- December 2006
- November 2006
- October 2006
- September 2006
- August 2006
- July 2006
- June 2006
- May 2006
- April 2006
- March 2006
- February 2006
- January 2006
- December 2005
- November 2005
- October 2005
- September 2005
- August 2005
- July 2005
- June 2005
- May 2005
- April 2005
- March 2005


Syndication


bloglines

add to my yahoo

add to newsgator

What is this?



Recent Entries

AFI Positions Available: Director of Business Development and Program Operations
posted 02.02.10
Julie Townsend: EMERGE Member Spotlight
posted 02.01.10
AMIkids Polk: Business Manager
posted 01.25.10


Upcoming Events

Speed Networking with Leadership Lakeland Alumni
@ The Honeyman Pavilion, Florida Southern College
on 02.11.2010 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Spreading Some Sunshine on a Saturday Morning - VISTE Service Project
@ Cecil Gober Villas, 2626 No. Florida Ave., 33805
on 03.06.2010 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
RSVP for this Event

Event Photos


AFI Positions Available: Director of Business Development and Program Operations - February 2, 2010

Director of Business Development

Individual will identify, explore and develop vocational training and employment opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities. Applicants must have outstanding written and oral communication skills. This individual will develop product and service opportunities (traditional and non-traditional) with private and government entities. Ability to review capacity, determine fair market pricing, develop new business relationships and identify competencies required for each project. Applicants must have strong supervisory/managerial experience, working knowledge of Wage and Hour guidelines, quality control and familiarity with vocational training/employment grant sources. Applicants should also have sound knowledge in basic revenue models, p/l, forecasting, budgeting and tracking needed in conjunction withstrong Microsoft Office skills.

Director of Program Operations

Organized, dependable, energetic & creative individual needed to manage current & develop new programs for adults with Developmental Disabilities in concert with State & Federal regulatory & funding agencies. Duties also include all aspects of program oversight including staff training & grants management. Bachelors Degree in Human Services field, 5 years of progressive management experience & familiarity with corresponding regulatory bodies. Must have proven written & oral communication skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs & familiar with local resources/program standards & financial statements. This is a full time position with benefits.

When applying for Director of Program Operation & Director of Business Development, please submit resume, salary range requirement and references to:

Shirley A. Balogh, President/CEO
Alliance for Independence
1038 Sunshine Dr. E.
Lakeland, FL 33801


Permalink | Comments (0) | More in: Job Openings

Posted by Emerge Lakeland

Julie Townsend: EMERGE Member Spotlight - February 1, 2010

Spotlight-Townsend-photo.jpg
Julie Townsend
Executive director, Downtown Lakeland Partnership


Q: How did you come to live/work in Lakeland?

A: We moved to Lakeland because of a job opportunity for my husband Billy at The Ledger. He was a reporter for a sister paper in Palatka, FL and applied for a position at The Ledger in 1999.


Q: If you could have any talent in the world, what would it be and why?

A: That's a hard one. I would probably want to be able to play a musical instrument. I attended the Harrison School for the Arts Orchestra concert a while back and it was fantastic. I am just amazed by anyone who can play. The music was so powerful it brought me to tears. I would love to be able to experience it from the creative side.


Q: What would you change/add regarding EMERGE to enhance your experience?

A: It is difficult to say, since I am so new to the organization. We are all so busy, I think it is hard to take advantage of the great activities already offered.


Q: Name one pet peeve.

A: Mediocrity. I always try to beat expectations and not just do the minimum required. I get peeved by others who do not give 110 percent.


Q: How has your EMERGE Lakeland membership been beneficial to you?

A: Already I have met some great people. It keeps me connected with the community in a way that is different from my job.


Q: If you could serve on any organization's board in Lakeland, which would it be and why?

A: Another hard one! I work for an organization with a board so I understand board dynamics well. With that said, the one I chose would have to be an organization I had a passion for and one that I had time to give 110 percent. All my passion for now is tied up in Downtown, so perhaps the Historic Lakeland board.


Q: If you could ask one question of an EMERGE Spotlight member, what would it be?

A: I would selfishly ask, "How much time and money do you think you spend in Downtown Lakeland?"


Q: What is the worst job you've ever had?

A: I have worked since I was 15, so you can imagine I've had lots of random retail jobs. But really all of them were great. Why a job is bad depends on your perspective. I am the kind of person who needs flexibility in schedule, constant changes and new stimuli. I thought I wanted to be a teacher early on, but soon learned that I was not cut out for the rigidity of the schedule and confinement of the workplace. I lasted only 2 years. I have a huge amount of respect for teachers after walking in their shoes. It takes a very special person.


Q: What upcoming Lakeland event are you looking forward to attending?

A: I am really excited about the upcoming Brewz Crewz Craft Beer Festival. Of course I am a bit biased, since I am organizing the event for the DLP, but I think it will be a fabulous event. We do not have a craft beer event in Lakeland that is to the caliber that we are planning, so I am excited to see how the public reacts to it.


Permalink | Comments (0) | More in: Community Leaders

Posted by Emerge Lakeland

AMIkids Polk: Business Manager - January 25, 2010

AMIkids Polk: Business Manager

Position Code: BUSMGR
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Program Adm
Reports to: Executive Director

----------------------------------------------------------------------

AMIkids is a non-profit dedicated to helping troubled youth develop into responsible and productive citizens. AMIkids’ mission is to protect the public safety and positively impact as many youth as possible through the efforts of a diverse and innovative staff. AMIkids works in partnership with youth agencies, local communities and families.

General Description of Duties
The Business Manager assists the Executive Director in the administration with various program functions, e.g., personnel management, financial management, board relations, fund raising. Employee maintains confidentiality of sensitive information, facilitates efficient program operations, and assists in creating an effective work environment. Position may supervise entry level support staff.

Primary objective is to support the AMIkids’ mission and Personal Growth Model, providing a safe and successful learning environment for troubled youth, while encouraging social and emotional development through the achievement of academic and personal goals.

Minimum Education, Training and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Education or related field; supplemented by one (1) to two (2) years management experience; or any combination of education, training and experience equal to or greater than defined regulatory requirements.


Physical Requirements

Tasks involve the ability to exert very moderate physical effort in light work, typically involving some combination of sitting, standing, walking, repetitive motions and finger dexterity, and which involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (12-20 pounds). Tasks may involve the intermittent performance of extremely physically demanding work, involving restraining procedures and physical intervention using a nationally recognized or state required nonviolent technique (weight exceeding 150 pounds).

Certifications, Licenses and Registrations

Must satisfy criminal background check and drug screening as defined by state requirements.
Must satisfy physical abilities and medical testing as defined by federal regulations.
Must obtain and maintain appropriate crisis intervention and physical restraint training and certification as defined by state requirements, e.g., Protective Action Response (PAR), Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NCI), Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI), Safe Crisis Management (SCM).
Must obtain and maintain current CPR and First Aid Certification by nationally recognized organization.
Must possess and maintain valid driver’s license in the state of employment; may be required to obtain and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with passenger and school bus endorsement.
Must successfully complete online Business Manager testing, e.g., Microsoft Excel and Outlook, Business Writing, and Accounting terminology.


For more information please contact Monti Sommer, Executive Director, at Polk-ED@amikids.org


Permalink | Comments (0) | More in: Job Openings

Posted by Emerge Lakeland

Give A Day. Get a Disney Day. - January 25, 2010

Give A Day. Get a Disney Day. Information
To sign up, go to disneyparks.disney.go.com

Explorations V
109 N Kentucky Avenue
Lakeland, FL 33801
863-687-3869
www.explorationsv.com
Contact: Sue Schluender, Education Director: sschluender@explorationsv.com

• Adults over 21 ONLY for this opportunity. NO CHILDREN.
• Complete volunteer application for each person (attached); bring to Museum day of event.
• Dress Code: safe, comfortable work clothes, closed toe shoes must have heel straps.
• PARKING is available in the parking garage directly behind the Museum, entrances on Main St. and Cedar St. There is no charge for parking on weekends.


Museum exhibit and office files/furniture removal
Saturday, February 6, 2010, Sunday, February 7, 2010
Volunteers needed 9 am – 3 pm (orientation 9-10 am, work 10 am – 3 pm)

Volunteers able to lift 25+ pounds. Not required, but if available bring work gloves, cordless drill, Phillips screwdriver, socket set, pliers. Tools must be labeled with your name-Explorations V is not responsible for replacement of lost tools.
Snacks, beverages, and lunch provided for volunteers.


Museum exhibit and office files/furniture replacement
Saturday, February 13, Sunday, February 14, 2010
Volunteers needed 9 am – 3 pm (orientation 9-10 am, work 10 am – 3 pm)

Volunteers able to lift 25+ pounds. Not required, but if available bring work gloves, cordless drill, Phillips screwdriver, socket set, pliers. Tools must be labeled with your name-Explorations V is not responsible for replacement of lost tools.
Snacks, beverages, and lunch provided for volunteers.


Permalink | Comments (0) | More in: Volunteerism

Posted by Emerge Lakeland

VISTEBall 2010 - January 21, 2010

VISTEBall 2010

Time/Date: 02-06-2010 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM


Description: VISTEBall is an indoor golf blowout where you can chip, putt, and play your way to great prizes. Event tickets include a buffet dinner, beer, wine, and dessert. It's a fun time for the pro, the hacker, or the person who has never held a club a day in their life! You'll have a blast and all proceeds help VISTE continue to serve the elderly.

Location:

The Hangar at Tiger Town
2220 N. Lake Ave.
Lakeland FL 33805


Single Ticket Cost: $60.00

To purchase tickets visit https://secure.qgiv.com/cps_donors/?key=viste&event=1557&static=y


Permalink | Comments (0) | More in:

Posted by Emerge Lakeland

Black & Brew is hiring a full-time kitchen manager - January 11, 2010

Black & Brew is hiring a full-time kitchen manager.

Application: http://www.blackandbrew.com/careers
Address: 205 East Main St., Lakeland, FL 33801
Phone: 863.682.1210

Resumes / applications may be e-mailed(chris@blackandbrewcoffee.com), faxed (863.682.1214) or hand delivered.


Title: Kitchen Manager

Reports To: GM

Direct Charge Over: Hourly Back of House (B.O.H.)

Summary of Position:
Directly responsible for all kitchen functions including food purchasing, preparation and maintenance of
quality standards; sanitation and cleanliness; training of employees in methods of cooking, preparation,
plate presentation, portion and cost control, and sanitation and cleanliness.

Duties & Responsibilities:
- Ensure that all food and products are consistently prepared and served according to the
restaurant's recipes, portioning, cooking and serving standards.
- Assist GM in making employment and termination decisions including interviewing, hiring,
evaluating and disciplining kitchen personnel as appropriate.
- Provide orientation of company and department rules, policies and procedures and oversee
training of new kitchen employees.
- Fill in where needed to ensure guest service standards and efficient operations.
- Prepare all required paperwork, including forms, reports and schedules in an organized and
timely manner.
- Ensure that all equipment is kept clean and in excellent working condition through personal
inspection and by following the restaurant's preventative maintenance programs.
- Work with restaurant managers to plan and price menu items. Establish portion sizes and prepare
standard recipe cards for all new menu items.
- Ensure that all products are ordered according to predetermined product specifications and
received in correct unit count and condition and deliveries are performed in accordance with the
restaurant's receiving policies and procedures.
- Control food cost and usage by following proper requisition of products from storage areas,
product storage procedures, standard recipes and waste control procedures.
- Oversee and ensure that restaurant policies on employee performance appraisals are followed and
completed on a timely basis.
- Notify GM of labor requirements for special events and catering.
- Be knowledgeable of restaurant policies regarding personnel and administer prompt, fair and
consistent corrective action for any and all violations of company policies, rules and procedures.
- Oversee the training of kitchen personnel in safe operation of all kitchen equipment and utensils.
- Responsible for training of all restaurant personnel in cleanliness, sanitation, and food safety
practices.
- Responsible for developing and maintaining appropriate cleaning schedules.
- Check and maintain proper food holding and refrigeration temperature control points.
- Provide safety training in first aid, CPR, lifting and carrying objects and handling hazardous
materials.
- Maintain and update inventory checklists.
- Maintain and update opening and closing checklists.
- Perform other responsibilities and duties determined by G.M.

Qualifications:
Be 21 years of age.
Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Have a vehicle and the ability to make deliveries.
Be able to communicate and understand the predominant language(s) of the
restaurant's trading area.
Have knowledge of service and food and beverage, generally involving at least two years of back-of-the-house operations experience in management positions.
Possess excellent basic math skills and have the ability to operate a cash register or POS system.
Be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to five hours).
Be able to reach, bend, stoop and frequently lift up to 50 pounds.
Must have the stamina to work 45 - 50 hours per week.

Location: Black & Brew- Lakeland, FL
Compensation: $22,000 + bonus opportunities


Permalink | Comments (0) | More in: Job Openings

Posted by Emerge Lakeland

January EMERGE Member Spotlight- Misty Dawn Peacock - January 7, 2010

Misty Dawn Peacock
V.P. of dealer relations/personal banker at Midflorida Credit Union


Q: How did you come to live/work in Lakeland?

A: I was promoted with Midflorida Credit Union and moved to Lakeland about three years ago. I am originally born and raised in the big city of "Bartow,Fl."


Q: What is the worst job you've ever had?

A: I have never experienced a bad job. Every job has been a learning experience in my career.


Q: What are your hobbies and interests?

A: Hobbies: I enjoy hanging out with my family and playing darts with my husband and kids. I am also pretty crazy about horses... just taking time out to feed them a few apples is a big stress reliever for me.

Interests: I enjoy volunteering my time with the Guardian Ad Litem and Make a Wish Foundation programs. What a blessing to have helped a child whose life you may have made a lasting impression upon.


Q: Name one of your favorite Lakeland events and why it’s your favorite.

A: Lakeland's annual Christmas Parade. I love Christmas and the true meaning of the season.

Q: What would you change/add regarding EMERGE to enhance your
experience?

A: I would become more involved with the group by volunteering on a committee.

Q: What is the oddest talent that you possess?

A: I have no earthly idea, it all seems odd to me!

Q: Name one guilty pleasure.

A: I love to eat chocolate!!!!


Q: What is the dumbest thing you've ever overheard someone say?

A: "Do I look stupid?"

Q: If you could have grown up during a different decade, which would it be and why?

A: The Roaring ‘20s - I would have wanted to be one of those classy ladies with their big hats and big dresses.


JanEmerge.jpg


Permalink | Comments (0) | More in: Member News

Posted by Emerge Lakeland

EMERGE LAKELAND AND THE CANNED TUNA CONTEST - December 10, 2009

EMERGE Lakeland is excited to announce that it will be participating in the Canned Tuna Wreath Contest during the Bumble Bee and VISTE Canned Tuna Concert featuring The Rogues on Friday, Dec. 11, 6:00pm - 9:00pm at the Lake Mirror Promenade. We encourage everyone to support VISTE by coming out to enjoy the Concert. All you have to do is bring a can of tuna for admission.

The wreath contest requires entrants to build a wreath using unopened cans of Bumble Bee Tuna. EMERGE members gathered this week to build and decorate the group’s wreath, which will serve as a way to promote holiday cheer, donate food and spread the word about EMERGE Lakeland. Members have come up with a great theme for the group’s submission: “E for EMERGE”. Wondering what it looks like? Stay tuned to the blog as we will give you a glimpse of the group building the wreath. “E for EMERGE” will be on display near the stage with the other contest entries beginning at 6:00pm.


Permalink | Comments (0) | More in: Community Events

Posted by Emerge Lakeland

*All blog posts and comments are the opinions of the blog author or comment poster and do not necessarily represent the views of EMERGE Lakeland.

P 863/688-8551 ext. 228 info@emergelakeland.com