CLAY BUSINESS

CONNECTION
Clay County’s #1 Source for Business News l May 2018
Training • Leadership Development • Coaching

HELPING YOU
INCREASE YOUR
POTENTIAL.
Clay Chamber Foundation Presents Clay County Fore! Clay
Quality of Life Progress Report Third Edition 2017 Chamber
The Clay County Chamber The report is the result of a
Annual Golf
Foundation presented the findings collective effort of many volunteers and Tournament Sponsored by Alliance & Associates
of the Clay County Quality of Life organizations, including St. Johns River
Progress Report Third Edition 2017, State College Baccalaureate Business It was a fantastic day for
made possible by the generous support Degree candidates, the University the Chamber’s Annual Golf
of principal sponsors Reinhold of North Florida, the Reinhold Tournament, presented by Alliance
Corporation, Orange Park Medical Corporation, and the Clay Chamber & Associates at Eagle Harbor Golf
Center, England Foundation who Club. Players and spectators had
Thims & Miller, conducted the a great time competing for prizes,
and Baptist Clay research, compiled shooting for a personal best, and
Medical Center at the results, and just hanging out.
a breakfast that produced the final
was open to the report. The Putting contest was
community and sponsored by Advanced Disposal
free to attend. The Third Services Inc. Hole-in-One was
Special thanks to Edition Quality sponsored by Garber Automall.
Thrasher-Horne of Life Report is
Center and St. available in PDF Register your foursome today
Johns River State format at http:// for next year’s tournament which
College for hosting www.claychamber. will be held April 12, 2019!
this year’s event com/clay-county-
and Executive Food quality-of-life- Joining the Title Sponsor,
Service for catering progress-report- Alliance & Associates, in
the breakfast. third-edition-2017. supporting this year’s tournament
html are Advanced Disposal Services,
The Quality Ameris Bank, Republic Services,
of Life Progress In summary, Gordon Chevrolet, Garber
Report was first published in 2008, the report shows a general increase in Automall, Beard Equipment,
with a Second Edition published in the quality of life for the area. Depite a Erwin Insurance, bestbet Orange
2015 and the Third Edition completed few negatives, most of the finding show park, RS&H Coastal Spine and
in 2017. The purpose of this report is to a positive trend. Pain Center, Clay Today, Costco
give a roadmap to the community from Wholesale, Miller Creative Group,
the perspective of where we have been, The Jacksonville Icemen, The Pink
where we are today, and the critical Seahourse Boutique, and Trust
issues facing the community. Environmental.

2017-2018
CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OFFICERS
Chairman: Bob Olson, Thrasher-Horne Center
Chair-Elect: Amy Pope-Wells, LINK Staffing
Services
President:
Tresa Calfee
COMMITTEES
Annual Spectacular Committee:
Chair: Amy Pope-Wells, LINK Staffing
Services
Vice Chair: David Goldberg, DM Image
Design LLC
Council Advocacy & Advisory Committee:
Chair: Howard Wanamaker, Hanania
Automotive Group
Vice-Chair: Patrick Hayle, Mercy Support
Services Inc.
Finance Committee:
Chair: Susan Carter, CPA - Susan Carter CPA,
P.A.
Vice-Chair: James Machado, St. Vincent’s
Medical Center Clay
Major Donor Action Committee:
• Rosiland Bridges
• Jon Cantrell
• Mark Szaks
• Tresa Calfee (President)
Membership Engagement Committee:
Chair: Lori Widell, Florida Blue
Vice-Chair: Elaine Umbaugh, FirstAtlantic
Bank
Public Policy Committee:
Chair: Roy Buncome, Buncome Technologies
Inc.
Vice-Chair: Darin Roark, Baptist Clay Medical
Center
Search Committee:
Co-Chair: Wendy Glass, Orange Park Medical
Center
Co-Chair: Kim Deppe, Deppe Communications
General Council
Ryan Maloney, Partner - Foley & Lardner LLP
Clay Business Connection is published monthly by
the Clay County Chamber of Commerce
1845 Town Center Blvd., Ste. 410
Fleming Island, FL 32003-3361
(904) 264-2651 ext. 209.:
Marketing@claychamber.com
2 • Clay Business Connection
Scholarship Recipients Honored at Clay Chamber Foundation
Awards Luncheon
The Clay County Chamber Foundation awarded 18 scholarships to Clay County High School students – the greatest number
to date – at its annual Awards Luncheon at Thrasher-Horne Center. The luncheon was sponsored by Alliance & Associates,
Defense Acquisition University (DAU), Orange Park Medical Center, Thrasher-Horne Center, and VyStar Credit Union.
Executive Food Service catered the event.
• $1,000 Clay Chamber Foundation Scholarship: Lucas Hauth (FIHS)
• $1,000 Clay Chamber Foundation Scholarship: Brandon Ludwig (Keystone Heights HS)
• $1,000 Clay Chamber Foundation Scholarship: Mary Redenius (Ridgeview HS)
• $1,000 Clay Chamber Foundation Scholarship: Kara Rodgers (Middleburg HS)
• $1,000 Clay Chamber Foundation Scholarship: Brenna Rodriguez (Home-School)
• $1,000 Clay Chamber Foundation Scholarship: Alexys Troyer (Clay Virtual Academy)
• $1,000 Clay Chamber Foundation Scholarship: Carlita Washington (Orange Park HS)
• $2,000 Clay Chamber Foundation Scholarship: TOP CHOICE AWARD Megan Moncrief (Keystone Heights HS)
RS&H sponsored the David K. Robertson Scholarship, $1,000 Katherine Walls (Keystone Heights HS)
New this year, Orange Park Medical Center sponsored a scholarship for the pursuit of medical education.
• $1,000 Orange Park Medical Center Scholarship: Neissa Alabre (Ridgeview HS)
Defense Acquisition University (DAU) again sponsored two STEM Scholarships and two non-STEM AT&L Scholarships:
• $1000 DAU AA STEM Scholarship: Shane May (Orange Park HS)
• $1000 DAU AA STEM Scholarship: John Roberts (Orange Park HS)
• $1000 DAU AA Non-specific AT&L Scholarship: Jason Chen (Ridgeview HS)
$1000 DAU AA Non-specific AT&L Scholarship: Kyrsten Wehner (CLAY HS)
Also new this year, the Clay Chamber President’s Choice Scholarship went to
• $1000 CLAY CHAMBER PRESIDENT’S CHOICE SCHOLARSHIP: KAYLIN HILLMAN (Douglas Anderson School of the
Arts)
VyStar Credit Union gave three $1,000 scholarships to students taking part in its Academy program. They will be presented
at another ceremony.
The 2018 Clay Chamber of Commerce Foundation Board is includes David Goldberg, Chair; Bob Olson, Vice Chair; Tresa
Calfee, Secretary; John Tabor, Officer; and Chris McNees, Treasurer.
The 2018 Scholarship Committee included Lori Grandstaff, Chair; Cindy Brown, Tresa Calfee, Jennifer Jacobson, John
Martin, Elizabeth Nealin, and Michelle Schroeder.
The Clay County Chamber
of Commerce Foundation
Scholarship Program was created
in 1991 to recognize academically
talented Clay County high school
seniors and to give financial
support for their college-
level studies. The scholarship
fund depends on fundraisers
and members who pay an
added amount in voluntary
contributions as part of their
annual dues.
For more information on
the Clay Chamber Foundation,
its Scholarship program, and or
to make a donation, please visit
http://www.claychamber.com/
foundation.html
Where you take your child
for emergency care matters.
When it comes to caring for newborns to teens, not all ERs are alike.
Experience matters. Unlike other ERs, at Wolfson A pediatric team matters. Your child’s ER doctor
Children’s ER at Baptist Clay, your child will always be works with a team of pediatric experts who recognize
seen by a board-certified physician experienced in subtle differences in children, which can be vital in
pediatric care. an emergency.

Speed to care matters. Our pediatric-trained triage Kid-sized technology matters. Wolfson Children’s
nurses are skilled in quickly assessing your child to offers child-specific trauma equipment and imaging,
move them directly to the level of care needed. reviewed by pediatric radiologists.

Why take chances? When your child has a medical emergency, you never really know how serious it might be, so we hope you’ll choose
Wolfson Children’s. We’re right here in Clay County 24/7 with fast, expert care you can rely on.

wolfsonchildrens.org/ER
US 17 & Village Square Parkway
Fleming Island
904.516.1000
Open 24/7

Clay Business Connection • 3

 Clay Chamber Board Room Rental
THE ROAD TO
The Clay Chamber
Board Room is available

SUCCESS
for rental by the hour
or by the day. For more
information, contact
Megan Graham at 904-
NOW HAS ONE LESS 264-2651 or mgraham@

BUMP
claychamber.com

Board Room
Information

I N I T.
Board Room Rental
includes Coffee,
Wifi, A/V, Audio-
Conferencing, and
Parking for length of
meeting.

BY THE HOUR: $25.00

plus tax 6.8%
Cancellation fee $25.00

BY THE DAY: $150.00

plus tax 6.8% Wifi, A/V,
Cancellation fee $75.00

Directions

U.S. Hwy. 17 South

INTRODUCING VyStar’s 100%
BUSINESS VEHICLE LOAN.
If upfront, out-of-pocket expenses have kept you from buying or refinancing
new or used vehicles, VyStar can help. We’ll finance up to 100% of a new
vehicle’s purchase price, including tax and license, as well as 100% of a used
vehicle’s retail Blue Book value. No down payment means more capital for
your operating expenses. And our streamlined application process makes
it faster and easier than ever to get things rolling. Visit any of our convenient
VyStar locations or go online to www.vystarcu.org for more information.
www.vystarcu.org
Call VyStar BuSineSS SerViCeS today 904-908-2292
outSide oF JaCKSonVille 800-445-6289
VYSTAR MEMBERSHIP IS OPEN TO EVERYONE WHO LIVES OR WORKS IN NORTHEAST fLORIdA
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available for refinancing existing VyStar debt or in conjunction with a VyStar loan program.
4 • Clay Business Connection
Proceed through the intersection at County Road 220 (Fleming Island), then
turn right on East West Parkway; turn left on Town Center Blvd., turn left before
Fleming Island Library.
1845 Town Center Blvd., Suite 410
Fleming Island, Florida 32003
(904) 264-2651 ext. 208
Simple Suggestions
1. Please leave the Board Room cleaner than the way you found it.
2. Reserve enough time for your meetings.
3. Do not use the Board Room as your second office.
4. Book your Board Room early, cancel early too.
5. If there is an issue with a conflicting reservation, ask the staff to handle the
situation.
The Clay County Chamber of Commerce is a 501 (c) 6 nonprofit association with over 900 current
members from Clay County and the neighboring counties. It is an organization made up of
businesses, agencies, nonprofits, and individual members that join together for the common good
of promoting business and the general welfare and prosperity of our community. In conjunction
with the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee, the President leads the Chamber in
providing benefits, programs, services and is the voice of the community and while striving to meet
the needs of the community.
North Florida Land Trust Earns National Recognition
North Florida
Land Trust (NFLT)
is honored and proud
to announce they
have been accredited
by the Land Trust
Accreditation
Commission, an independent
program of the Land Trust
Alliance. This national
recognition places NFLT
within a network of 398
accredited land trusts
across the nation that
have demonstrated a commitment
to professional excellence and to
maintaining the public’s trust in
their work. NFLT has been saving
open and natural spaces since 1999
and this national recognition shows
their commitment to permanent land
conservation throughout their 10-county
focus area and beyond.
“This accreditation is a huge
step for us and brings credibility to
our operations,” said Jim McCarthy,
president of NFLT. “A donor, large
or small, will know we operate to the
highest standards and are among the
very best in the country. Cassie Froeba,
our operations manager, did a great
job of pulling our team together for
our application and follow up. While
everyone actively participated in this
rigorous process, she, Susan Carr and
Elizabeth Guthrie put in incredible
hours to get this done right. I am so
proud of our team for their hard work.
This designation has strengthened
our mission to preserve the beautiful
lands throughout our state for future
generations to enjoy.”
The land trust accreditation
program recognizes land conservation
organizations that meet national quality
standards for protecting important
natural places and working lands
forever. The main objectives of the
accreditation program are to build and
recognize strong land trusts, to foster
public confidence in land conservation
and to help ensure the long-term
protection of land.
NFLT provided extensive
documentation and underwent a
comprehensive review as part of
its accreditation
application. The Land
Trust Accreditation
Commission awarded
accreditation,
signifying its
confidence that
NFLT’s lands will be
protected forever. Almost
20 million acres of farms,
forests and natural areas vital
to healthy communities are
now permanently conserved
by an accredited land trust.
Architects, engineers, contractors,
and building owners should know that
working with an accredited land trust
will earn credit to LEED certification.
NFLT is proud of what they have
accomplished over the years. They
have preserved thousands of acres of
ecologically sensitive land primarily in
Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler,
Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns, Union and
Volusia counties. In the document they
created and named the Preservation
Portfolio, NLFT has identified more
than 112,000 acres of land in critical
need of preservation within their
10-county focus area. They have been
successful in acquiring some of those
lands, but continue to work to preserve
the remaining properties. They are also
leading a team of 18 partners to preserve
approximately 100,000 acres within
the Ocala to Osceola, or O2O, wildlife
corridor, which is an important habitat
for many threatened and endangered
species.
“It is exciting to recognize
North Florida Land Trust with this
distinction,” said Tammara Van Ryn,
executive director of the Commission.
“Accredited land trusts are united
behind strong ethical standards
ensuring the places people love will
be conserved forever. Accreditation
recognizes North Florida Land Trust has
demonstrated sound finances, ethical
conduct, responsible governance, and
lasting stewardship.”
NFLT is one of 1,363 land trusts
across the United States according
to the most recent National Land
Trust Census, released December 1,
2016 by the Land Trust Alliance. This
comprehensive report
also shows that
accredited land trusts
have made significant
achievements.
• Accredited
land trusts have
steadily grown and
now steward almost
80% of conservation
lands and easements
held by all land trusts.
• Accredited
land trusts protected
five times more land Jim McCarthy, Rebecca Perry, Marc Hudson, Andrea Conover, Susan
from 2010 to 2015 Carr, Cassie Froeba, Elizabeth Guthrie, Emily Dunn, Dana Doody,
than land trusts Genevieve Fletcher and Allison Cologne
that were not yet
accredited.
• Accredited land trusts also have Commission
stronger systems and more resources to
steward and defend their conservation
lands forever.
• As a result, the public’s trust in
land conservation has increased helping
to win support for federal, state and
local conservation funding measures.
A complete list of accredited land
trusts and more information about the
process and benefits are detailed at
www.landtrustaccreditation.org.
About North Florida Land Trust
North Florida Land Trust is a
non-profit organization who serves as a
champion of environmental protection
primarily in Baker, Bradford, Clay,
Duval, Flagler, Nassau, Putnam, St.
Johns, Union and Volusia counties.
NFLT was founded in 1999 and
has protected thousands of acres
of environmentally significant land
including property at Big Talbot Island,
the River Branch Preserve, Pumpkin
Hill, Moccasin Slough, along the St.
Mary’s River and other valued natural
areas predominantly in Northeast
Florida. NFLT is funded largely by
private and corporate contributions and
works closely with private landowners
and other public agencies at all levels
of government, not-for-profit partners,
and foundations. For more information,
visit www.northfloridalandtrust.org.
About the Land Trust Accreditation
The Land Trust Accreditation
Commission inspires excellence,
promotes public trust and ensures
permanence in the conservation of open
lands by recognizing organizations that
meet rigorous quality standards and
strive for continuous improvement. The
Commission, established in 2006 as an
independent program of the Land Trust
Alliance, is governed by a volunteer
board of diverse land conservation and
nonprofit management experts. For
more, visit www.landtrustaccreditation.
org.
About the Land Trust Alliance
Founded in 1982, the Land Trust
Alliance is a national land conservation
organization that works to save
the places people need and love by
strengthening land conservation across
America. The Alliance represents 1,000
member land trusts supported by more
than 200,000 volunteers and 4.6 million
members nationwide. The Alliance is
based in Washington, D.C., and operates
several regional offices. The Alliance’s
leadership serves the entire land trust
community—our work in the nation’s
capital represents the policy priorities
of land conservationists from every
state; our education programs improve
and empower land trusts from Maine to
Alaska; and our comprehensive vision
for the future of land conservation
includes new partners, new programs
and new priorities. Connect with us
online at www.landtrustalliance.org.
Clay Business Connection • 5
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Or Call (904) 264-2651 ext. 21 4
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1845 Town Center Blvd., Ste. 410
Fleming Island, FL 32003
Register Online:
www.CCCCHealth.com
Or Call (904) 264-2651 ext. 214
6 • Clay Business Connection
FIRST COAST OUTER BELTWAY
A STATE
IN MOTION
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 Tr a c k i n g t h e P ro g re s s o f M e m b e r B u s i n e s s e s M AY 2 0 1 8
Craig Morgan to Perform at Orange Park Bass Fishing Tournament to Benefit
Mall’s 8th Annual Freedom Fest June 30 Wolfson Children’s Hospital
Orange Park
Mall has announced
country music
entertainer and
Army veteran Craig Morgan as headline
music entertainment for its 8th annual
Freedom Fest on Saturday, June 30,
2018. Families are invited to enjoy the
special event, an early Independence
Day celebration, to honor our first
responders and military families,
particularly those based out of NAS
Jacksonville, NS Mayport and Camp
Blanding.
“Orange Park Mall is excited
for the return of this family friendly
summer event,” said Gi Teevan,
marketing director at Orange Park
Mall. “Our dynamic shopping, dining
and entertainment options provide the
perfect backdrop for guests to enjoy
Freedom Fest. We’re looking forward to
another successful event to celebrate our
local heroes who put their lives on the
front lines.”
A multi-faceted entertainer, Craig
Morgan has made a name for himself
as a country music icon, TV personality,
celebrated outdoorsman and patriotic
Army veteran. One of country music’s
best-loved artists, Morgan has charted
25 songs on Billboard and thrills
massive crowds with signature hits
including “Bonfire,” “Almost Home,”
Competitive bass Boatmate trailer and
“Redneck fishermen and casual Mercury 225 Pro XS
Yacht Club,” anglers alike will motor valued at over
“International compete on Saturday, $56,000. A door prize
Harvester,” “This May 19, 2018, at the drawing will also add
Ole Boy,” “Wake Up Lovin’ You” and 29th Annual Wolfson excitement with the
the four-week #1, “That’s What I Love Children’s Hospital chance to win $5,000
About Sunday.” Craig received one of Bass Tournament. in prizes.
country music’s highest honors when he What has grown into
was inducted as a member of the Grand the nation’s second- “Participating
Ole Opry in 2008. Prior to becoming a largest bass fishing in any event that
country music star and TV sensation, tournament takes supports Wolfson
Morgan spent seventeen years serving place each year in Children’s Hospital
our country in the Army and Army Palatka, Florida, the is an honor,”
Reserves. He is an avid supporter of “Bass Capital of the said Tournament
America’s military personnel who has World,” to benefit Chairman Brian Seay
made 14 overseas trips to perform for patients of Wolfson of Miller Electric
our troops and is a recipient of the Children’s Hospital. in Jacksonville.
2006 USO Merit Award. In addition “Watching this
to a prolific country music career, he The tournament tournament grow over
hosts the award-winning TV show Craig draws an exciting the years and become
Morgan: All Access Outdoors and range of anglers, from such a successful
this spring, premiered the docuseries novice to professional, fundraiser for our
Morgan Family Strong on UP TV, which and it has grown area’s only children’s
follows Craig and his close-knit family every year, thanks to hospital has been
as they launch the family’s passion generous sponsors incredibly fulfilling. I’m
project – Morgan Farms. and participants so thankful to be part
who contributed $250,000 to Wolfson of it, and to know that we are making a
Freedom Fest will kick-off at 5:00 Children’s Hospital last year and difference in the lives of children.”
p.m. with performances by local bands more than $4 million total. Last year’s
and artists. Shoppers are welcome tournament drew 621 registered boats, Generous donors and community
to bring chairs and blankets to enjoy 1,242 fishermen, and more than a fundraising events like the Bass
the show in a relaxing atmosphere. hundred volunteers and supporters who Tournament are what give Wolfson
Families can take part of a bike enjoy the tournament and three days of Children’s Hospital the ability to
decorating contest, bounce houses, activities associated with it. continue our not-for-profit mission to
splash park, military displays, and other provide outstanding care to every child
fun activities. Craig Morgan takes the Prior to the main event on May who needs our help. For other ways to
stage at 7:30 p.m. and the spectacular 19, the Annual Lads and Lasses Bass support Wolfson Children’s Hospital,
fireworks show begins at 9:00 p.m. Tournament will be held on Thursday, please visit wolfsonchildrens.com.
May 17, 2018, and the Annual VIP and
Before the event, guests can take Friends Bass Tournament will be held For full details and to enter
advantage of great shopping at popular on Friday, May 18, 2018, from safe light the bass boat drawing, please visit
Orange Park Mall retailers, including until 3 pm. wolfsonbasstournament.com.
Artsy Abode, Belk, Francesca’s, Dillard’s
and JCPenney. A drawing will be held on Saturday,
May 19, 2018, at the tournament’s
For more information, call 904-269- final weigh-in event for a 21-foot,
9413 or visit www.orangeparkmall.com. fully rigged 2017 Bullet 21XRD with
Clay Business Connection • 7
Member News
bestbet Orange Park
10th Anniversary of Cardroom
bestbet Orange Park, also
known as the Orange Park Kennel Club
has been a part of Clay County and
the Town of Orange Park Community
for over 70 years. Orange Park Kennel
Club opened in March of 1946 with live
greyhound racing much like its sister
facility, Jacksonville Kennel Club, which
opened in 1934. Over the years, Orange
Park Kennel Club encountered many
changes, including a complete overhaul
of the building and the track surface in
1970, laying the ground for the building
in place today.
On April 9, 2008, nearly 72 years
after opening its doors, Orange Park
Kennel Club opened the Poker Room.
The Poker Room offered poker games
and tournaments to the already popular
entertainment facility. With the opening
of the Poker Room and the continued
growth and popularity of poker, Chad
Brown, Vanessa Russo and many other
famous poker players brought their
game to Orange Park.
In 2012, Orange Park Kennel Club
became known as “bestbet” Orange
Park, and in 2016 added new poker
games to its product offerings; Ultimate
Texas Hold’em, Fortune Pai Gow, War
and Three Card Poker. bestbet has
remained a vital part of the Orange Park
and Clay County Community. “We are
very proud to have been a community
partner and local business in the Town
of Orange Park and Clay County for
so many years”, said Jamie Shelton,
President - bestbet Orange Park.
Join bestbet in celebrating 10 years
of poker at bestbet Orange Park. For
more information please visit: www.
bestbetjax.com
NOTABLE
Baptist Health Foundation
appointed Cheryl Rackley, Lauren
Rueger, Kimberly Tonning, Elli
Zimmerman and Mark Shorstein to its
board of trustees to serve three-year
terms.
Community First Credit Union
of Florida reports that it’s loan
portfolio reached $1.026 billion at the
end of 2017, with deposits rising eight
percent to $1.3 billion. Membership rose
five percent to 126,000.
Clay County District Schools
has launched new websites for the
district and all schools. On the district
site, there is a section called, “OneClay,
Many Stories” at the bottom of the
homepage. This is where updates will
be posted including event information
and important announcements from
the superintendent. This area will be
used as a main communication platform
with all stakeholders and media. This
information can also be found under the
“Communications” tab.
Clay Chamber Boardmember,
Howard Wanamaker, Hanania
Automotive, is a panelist for JBJ’s
“Building on Veterans” event May
31, 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. http://bizj.
us/1pjow3
CAREER MOVES
Clay Eye Physicians &
Surgeons announced that Susan Frick,
O.D. has joined the practice.
Coastal Spine and Pain Center
announced the addition of William
Neway III as an orthopedic spine
surgeon.
Marie Watson joined
FirstAtlantic Bank as vice president,
commercial banker.
St. Vincent’s HealthCare
selected Jeffrey Oliver as its new vice
president of pharmacy.
PROFESSIONAL
RECOGNITION
Ameriprise Financial Services
Inc. announced that Kris Kasturi is
listed among the Forbes Best-in-State
Wealth Advisors for 2018, an honor
awarded to a select group of advisors
for quality of service and success in
business and ethics.
The National Association of Social
Workers (NASW) Florida Chapter’s
Northeast Unit honored 17-year
Community Hospice & Palliative
Care veteran and Psychosocial Specialist
Kelly Racine, MSW as Social Worker of
the Year.
CALL FOR NOMINATION
JBJ’s Women of Influence,
deadline is June 19. Let’s make certain
Clay County’s amazing women are
recognized. Submit your nomination at
http://bizj.us/1pjkpv
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Do you have experience in
• Customer Service
• Events
• QuickBooks
• Sales
• Microsoft Office
Your Clay Chamber is looking for
volunteers who possess these skills to
assist with the Chamber’s Signature
Events
• Military Appreciation Luncheon
• Teacher Appreciation Expo
• Business & Health Expo
• Annual Awards Dinner
If you are interested in volunteering
and able to complete tasks at the Clay
Chamber office, then please send an
email outlining your skills to
sbrooks@claychamber.com.

THIS IS A BASE STRIP AD 10” WIDE x 1” HIGH.

$100 with a 6- or 12-month contract.
Contact Sandra Brooks (904) 264-2651 ext. 209 or
email at sbrooks@claychamber.com

Presidential Leadership

8 • Clay Business Connection

Ambassadors of the Month-May
1st Place
Sharon Lynn Unger
Wicked Branding & Graphix
Florida Fallen Heros
Renewing Members
Business
Ameris Bank – Blanding
Diamond Assisted Living LLC
Professional
Community First – Fleming Island Branch
First Coast ID Consultants, LLC
Jumperz Fun Center
North Florida Lawyers, PLLC
The Club Continental
Entrepreneur
Sleep Number by Select Comfort
Trent Trust Investments
Wantman Group, Inc.
Legacy
Small Business of the Month
Congratulations to Shy Singleton Insurance LLC
May Small Business of the Month
Shy Singleton Insurance LLC
is going on their third year in
business, specializing in Personal
and Commercial Insurance.
Shilene Singleton is the CEO of
Shy Singleton Insurance LLC.
As a highly accomplished and
respected retired educator with
2nd Place 3rd Place
an extensive background in
David Kleinik Wendy Norfleet
school administration, she has
Primerica Norfleet Integrated
now added entrepreneur to her
Solutions
vast repertoire of experiences. In
November of 2014, she decided
to take the plunge and become
an Allstate agency owner. She
holds certifications in Property
& Casualty Insurance; Life,
Health & Annuities; in addition,
Non-Profit
she is a Personal Financial
Clay County Literacy Coalition Inc
Representative.
Columbia College – NAS Jacksonville
North Florida Land Trust
Her agency offers auto,
Northeast Florida Community Action
home, life, retirement, and commercial insurance. They are a full-service insurance
Agency
agency that offers insurance reviews to their clients and members of the community to
The Way Free Medical Clinic
ensure full protection of all the things that matter to you. They also offer a variety of
financial products such as whole life, universal life, term life, and retirement income
Clay Chamber +1
solutions.
Betsy Condon
Watson Realty Corp Orange Park – Mary
Being a comprehensive insurance broker allows her the opportunity to educate
Little
individuals about insurance and help them protect what matters most. Call at (904)
964-7707 or visit 7855 Argyle Forest Blvd #702, Jacksonville 32244, they look forward
to getting to know you and helping you to find the insurance solutions that meet your
needs.
Clay Business Connection • 9
Clay Chamber Calendar of Events
For more information and to register for events, visit our website at www.ClayChamber.com/Chamber-Events. Chamber Signature Events sell out quickly so register
early. You do not need to register for Clay Technology Council or Finally Friday Networking. For Oakleaf Business Council, Clay Women’s Empowerment Council, and
Bridge to Bridge Council you must RSVP for meetings so we have an accurate count for food.
May
May 2 Ambassador Committee - 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. - CC Board Room Clay Women’s Empowerment Council Sponsored by:
May 2 River’s Edge Toastmasters - Noon - 1:10 p.m. - CC Board Room
First Thursday 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
The Club Continental
May 3 Clay Women’s Empowerment Council - 11: 30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - The Club Continental
2143 Astor Street
May 5 National Small Business Week - 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. - Orange Park Mall
Orange Park, FL 32073
May 8 Clay Chamber Marketing & Networking Advantage - 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. - CC Board Room $15.00 Members Advance Registration
May 9 Bridge to Bridge Council - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Talon’s at Eagle Harbor Golf Club $25.00 Non-Members and at the Door
May 10 After Hours - 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. - Canterfield of Clay County Register by 11:30 a.m. Tuesday prior to
May 15 Clay Technology Council - 7:45 a.m. - 9 a.m. - Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites meeting.
May 16 River’s Edge Toastmasters - Noon - 1:10 p.m. - CC Board Room
May 22 Oakleaf Business Council - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Plantation Oaks Amenities Center Bridge to Bridge Council Sponsored by:
May 24 Military Appreciation Luncheon - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Thrasher-Horne Center Second Wednesday 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Trust
May 28 Memorial Day - Chamber CLOSED Talon’s at Eagle Harbor
May 31 Clay Chamber Day at Jacksonville Shrimp - 7:05 p.m.- Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville 2217 Eagle Harbor Pkwy.
Finally Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. - Haven Hospice - May 4, 11, 18, 25 Fleming Island, FL 32003
$15.00 Members Advance Registration
$25.00 Non-Members and at the Door
E n v i ro n m e n t a l
ADVANCE • ACCELERATE • GO GREEN
June
Register by 11:30 a.m. Tuesday prior to
Jun 6 Ambassador Committee - 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. CC Board Room meeting.
Jun 6 River’s Edge Toastmasters - Noon - 1:10 p.m. - CC Board Room
Jun 7 Clay Women’s Empowerment Council - 11: 30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - The Club Continental Clay Technology Council Sponsored by:
Jun 13 Bridge to Bridge Council - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Talon’s at Eagle Harbor Golf Club Third Tuesday 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Jun 14 New Member Roundtable - 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. - Orange Park Medical Center Classroom 7 Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
Jun 14 After Hours “Block Party” - 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. - Dicks Wings (wings & drink specials) and Art for Eyes 620 Wells Road
(dessert and wine) - Clay Chamber Orange Park, FL 32073
Jun 19 Clay Technology Council - 7:45 a.m. - 9 a.m. - Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites $5.00 Members at the Door
Jun 20 River’s Edge Toastmasters - Noon - 1:10 p.m. - CC Board Room $10.00 Non-Members at the Door
Jun 21 Jaguars Black Business Networking at TIAA Field Touchdown Club, 4 – 7 p.m.
Jun 26 Oakleaf Business Council - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Plantation Oaks Amenities Center Oakleaf Business Council Sponsored by:
Finally Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. - Haven Hospice - June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Fourth Tuesday 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Plantation Oaks Amenities Center
845 Oakleaf Plantation Parkway
July Orange Park, FL 32065
Jul 4 Fourth of July - Chamber CLOSED $15.00 Members Advance Registration
Jul 5 Clay Women’s Empowerment Council - NO MEETING $25.00 Non-Members and at the Door
Jul 10 Chamber 1-on-1 - 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. - CC Board Room Register by 11:30 a.m. Monday prior to
Jul 11 Bridge to Bridge Council - NO MEETING meeting.
Jul 12 Chamber Day at Jacksonville Shrimp, July 12
Jul 17 Clay Technology Council - NO MEETING Finally Friday Networking Sponsored by:
Jul 18 River’s Edge Toastmasters - Noon - 1:10 p.m. - CC Board Room Every Friday 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
Jul 24 Oakleaf Business Council - NO MEETING Haven Hospice
Finally Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. - Haven Hospice - July 6, 13, 20, 27 745 Blanding Blvd.
Orange Park, FL 32065
August $5.00 Members at the door
TBD Teacher Appreciation Expo $10.00 Non-Members at the door
Aug 1 Ambassador Committee - 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. - CC Board Room
Aug 1 River’s Edge Toastmasters - Noon - 1:10 p.m. - CC Board Room
Aug 2 Clay Women’s Empowerment Council - 11: 30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - The Club Continental
Aug 8 Bridge to Bridge Council - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Talon’s at Eagle Harbor Golf Club
Aug 14 Marketing & Networking Advantage - 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. - CC Board Room
Aug 15 River’s Edge Toastmasters - Noon - 1:10 p.m. - CC Board Room
Aug 21 Clay Technology Council - 7:45 a.m. - 9 a.m. - Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites
Aug 28 Oakleaf Business Council - 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. - Plantation Oaks Amenities Center
Finally Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. - Haven Hospice - August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
10 • Clay Business Connection
 •

Get To Know A Chamber Member Chamber Programs

Crazy Beans Coffee is a locally owned and operated
LEADERSHIP CLAY CLASS OF 2018
cozy coffee shop in the heart of Fleming Island. Perfect
for everything from a business meeting, chat with friends In April the Leadership Clay Class of SPONSORED BY:
or family game time as they offer a wide variety of 2018 met for History Day.
games to enjoy. The heart of this small business is their
customer service but don’t take our word for it look them The day began with a behind
up on any social media or review site and read how much the scenes tour of the Clay County
their customers love them back. It only takes one visit to Agricultural Fairgrounds with Tasha
know you are now part of their crazy family. Hyder, the Fairground Manager. The and learned that one of the trains has
class learned a lot about the history of transported prior Presidents around the
Crazy Beans prides themselves on offering the very the houses located on the fairgrounds, country.
best from their 100% organic and fair trade coffees and espresso, to using only local the logistics of what goes into putting on
bakeries to provide a delicious homemade pastry selection including a large variety the fair, and met some of the vendors. At the end of the day the class
of gluten free and vegan. They also have fresh made to order breakfast and lunch reflected on what they had
sandwiches. Crazy Beans offers over 100 different flavor combinations for your learned. There is such a
coffee, latte or frap. Not a coffee person? No worries! They also have a wide variety wealth of knowledge about our
of iced and hot teas, lemonades, or real fruit smoothies. county. History Day made for
a well-rounded day of learning
Crazy Beans is actively involved in the community supporting several local what our ounty has to offer
schools, athletic associations, and community churches. They pride themselves on and the past that shapes this
giving back, keeping it local, and getting to know each one of their customers. At community.
Crazy Beans you can expect good old fashion southern hospitality from a friendly
and knowledgeable staff. Thank you to Clay Transit
After this tour the class loaded for transporting the class safely all day.
Crazy Beans goal is to create an experience that you and your entire family will up and went to visit the Clay County
crave as much as their crazy drinks! So come in and become part of our amazing Archives. The class learned a lot from, LEADERSHIP CLAY ALUMNI
crazy family. Vishi Garig, about the different Sheriffs
and the history of Clay County. We PROGRAM LAUNCHED
heard many interesting stories about our
county and toured the Old Jail House. The Leadership Clay Alumni
Program kicked-off with a dinner
The class walked over to The program at The Club Continental
River’s Edge Toastmasters Historic Court House where Ameris featuring the acclaimed Pegine who
Bank provided lunch. Debbie Mueller spoke about GEMS: Great Engaged
River’s Edge Toastmasters spoke to the class about Teen Court and Leaders Manifest Success.
Meets 1st and 3rd Wednesday from 12:00 PM to 1:10 PM how the students prepare for
Clay County Chamber of Commerce different cases and the benefits
Teen Court has on our teens in
For more information, email Karen Balcanoff, Clay County. While the class
karenbalcanoff@sjrstate.edu was learning about Teen Court,
Sandra Brooks took over 135
pounds of food to the Food
Pantry of Green Cove Springs,
that was donated by the
Leadership Class.

Next, the class visited

Penney Farms Retirement Community.
Rebecca Padgett did a great job showing
the class all the many things this
community has to offer. The class could
see members of the community enjoying
Choir Practice, using the facilities which
included a library, pool, and exercise
room to name a few.
Special thanks to St. Vincent’s
Healthcare | Ascension for increasing its
sponsorship to support both programs.
For more information on the
Alumni Program, contact Sandra Brooks
at sbrooks@claychamber.com or 904-
264-2651 x 209.

The last stop of the day was a tour, To learn more about Leadership
of the Orange Park Train Station. The programs at Clay Chamber visit http://
class walked through some of the trains www.claychamber.com/leadership.html

Clay Business Connection • 11

Call Today... Leverage Local

Clay Business Connection

is published monthly by the Clay
County Chamber of Commerce
1845 Town Center Blvd. Ste. 410
Fleming Island, FL 32003
(904) 264-2651

VISION:
Serve our members with
loyalty and excellence; Build
relationships that are credible
and influential; Promote and
preserve an environment that
enhances vitality in the business
community.

MISSION:
Lead, advocate and promote
opportunity, economic growth,
networking and best practices that
will serve the membership in the
best way possible.

12 • Clay Business Connection

Call Today... Leverage Local
Advertise
Your Business
Business Card Size Ad
3.5 x 2 inches

$40 per month Open Rate

or $30 per month with
6-month Contract.

Other ad sizes available.

Contact Sandra Brooks

(904) 264-2651 ext. 209 or
email at
sbrooks@claychamber.com

DID YOU
KNOW
Advertisers
Post Office Box 45085 also appear in the
weekly
Jacksonville, Florida 32232-5085
Direct: (904) 316-5292
Fax: (904) 779-8523

“Happening This
Nichole Smith email: smithnich@vystarcu.org
Mortgage Loan Officer

Week”
NMLS# 665295
Ask me about our Corporate Headquarters
Clearly Better Mortgage 4949 Blanding Boulevard
No Closing Costs Offer Jacksonville, Florida 32210

and that your ad is linked

to your
member profile.

You’ll want to complete your

member profile
and keep it updated
to get the full benefit of this
advertising perk.

Clay Business Connection • 13

Call Today... Leverage Local

NEW
Advertising
Opportunity

2018 CHAMBER BUNDLE

CONNECTION
Business Card Ad
3.5 x 2 inches

HAPPENING THIS WEEK

Business Card Ad
Linked to Profile

WEBSITE
Rectangle Ad
300 x 250 pixels

$100 per month with

6-month contract.

Contact Sandra Brooks

(904) 264-2651 ext. 209
or email at
sbrooks@claychamber.com

NEW
Advertising
Opportunity
14 • Clay Business Connection
Ribbon Cuttings

USHealth Advisors Kings Crab Seafood Market Pierre’s Eatery

Contact: Gregory Roberts, (904) 476-7308 700 Blanding Blvd #12, Orange Park, FL 32073 Orange Park Mall Food Court

DD Home Realty Inc. Women’s Empowerment Services of NE FL Inc. First Choice Financial Services
1857 Wells Rd Ste 228, Orange Park, FL 32073 279 Kingsley Ave Ste 11, Orange Park, FL 32073 784 Blanding Blvd Ste 108, Orange Park, FL 32073

National Pink Tie Organization Professional Legal Docs BBVA Compass Bank
784 Blanding Blvd Ste 108, Orange Park, FL 32073 2177 Kingsley Ave Ste 29, Orange Park, FL 32073 1500 CR 220, Fleming Island, FL 32003

Clay Business Connection • 15

 Here’s a Healthcare Benefit Employers Can Afford to Offer Their Employees
Low Cost Lab Testing on Your Premises
$55 Complete Blood Panel - Plus $20 PSA (Men Only)

NORTHEAST FLORIDA HEALTH SCREENING

AFFORDABLE | CONVENIENT | SMART
We have partnered with St. Vincent’s | Ascension and Consolidated NO DOCTOR’S ORDER OR INSURANCE REQUIRED
Laboratory Services to provide onsite health screening for Blood Panel Includes:
employers and organizations with 35 or more participating •Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
individuals. Be proactive about good health. Healthy people are •Lipid Profile
engaged, motivated and productive. You can provide access •Complete Blood Count (CBC)
to affordable health screening for your employees, members, •Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
or constituents. The entire process takes only 10 minutes. It’s •Uric Acid
easy and convenient. Available in Baker, Clay, Duval, Flagler, •Men Only—Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA)
Nassau, Putnam, St. Johns and neighboring counties. For more
information, call Megan Graham at (904) 264-2651.

16 • Clay Business Connection