Last updated 3 months ago
Community Bank of Florida is proud to announce that EMERGE Lakeland has appointed Karen Houtz as their new Chairperson. Ms. Houtz has been part of the Community Bank family for five years, working as a Commercial Relationship Officer to fulfill the needs of local business owners. She has extensive banking experience, with over 16 years in the industry.
Karen is a third generation Lakeland native. In her free time, she enjoys helping rescued animals find adoptive families and serves as a board member of the local SPCA. She is also very active in local organizations, including the Kiwanis Club of Lakeland, Leadership Lakeland Class XXVIII, the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, where she is a Chamber Champion. Karen is looking forward to her new position in the EMERGE organization, stating, “I am honored to serve as Chairperson. My goal is to continue the work of EMERGE- uniting young professionals across Polk County.”
About Emerge: EMERGE Lakeland is a meaningful organization of dedicated, talented young professionals ranging in age from 21-42. EMERGE’s mission is to create a venue for members to build relationships, develop professionally, become politically aware, philanthropically active, and contribute to the economic development and quality of life in Lakeland. They are the result of a partnership of the Lakeland Area Chamber of Commerce and the United Way of Central Florida that began in 2003.
Last updated 3 months ago
Community Bank of Florida will be closed on Monday, January 21st in observance of Martin Luther King Day. This day is also known as the national "Martin Luther King Day of Service," which challenges Americans to transform the holiday into a day of citizen volunteer service in honor of Dr. King. Let's go out and do something for our community!
Last updated 4 months ago
Community Bank of Florida is pleased to announce Willie L. Carpenter, Senior Vice President, was recognized at The Homestead/Florida City Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Breakfast as an Outstanding Community Leader. The Breakfast is an annual event held by the Community Relations Board to honor Dr. King as well as those in the community who give back. This year, a special tribute was made in honor of the City of Homestead’s Centennial Anniversary. A keynote speaker is always on hand to give words of wisdom and Dr. Joseph D. Turner inspired everyone as this year's speaker. The event draws over 300 guests annually and includes singing and greetings from local dignitaries. Congratulations to Bill Duquette and Antrel Rolle, who were also honored.
Photos: Willie Carpenter accepting his award and (left to right) Homestead Councilman Jimmie L. Williams III, Willie L. Carpenter and Florida City Vice Mayor Avis Brown
Last updated 4 months ago
Community Bank of Florida expressed appreciation for their Golden Circle Members by having a Holiday gathering at the National Historic Landmark, Bok Tower Gardens. Transportation was provided for members who live in the Lakeland area. A group of approximately 75 members and friends met in the morning and began their day exploring the beautiful gardens. After walking the grounds, they toured the historic Pinewood Estate mansion. The 1930s style home was decorated for the holidays, giving it an even more festive atmosphere. Members enjoyed participating in the judging of the Professional Interior Decorators contest. Afterwards, the group enjoyed a luncheon and desserts in the garden.
Community Bank’s Golden Circle is a special group for those 55 and older. The Golden Circle offers many banking benefits, plus exciting extras- including group travel to historic sites and tourist destinations, Holiday Parties, Educational Seminars, the Annual Picnic and the Golden Circle Newsletter. For more information, contact Golden Circle Coordinator, Evelyn Guilfoyle at (866) 820-1533.
Last updated 4 months ago
Own a business in the South Dade area and interested in free money? Then join us at the next Business Plus Network Meeting on Tuesday, January 8th at 7:15 AM in our Community Room. Network with our 90 members, then listen as special guest speaker Leroy Jones explains how to apply for and receive grant funding from the Dade County Mom & Pop Grant Program. Email us at Communitybankofflorida@gmail.com to RSVP!