Career-boosting classes on the Avenue

Last month I wrote about the end of summer and return of the school year. I’m glad to report that as of this week all of our local schools, colleges and universities are now in session. Now that the students have all returned to their schoolwork, it’s time to get back to business at the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce. In Winter Park, the Chamber is known for as much ‘community’ as it is ‘commerce,’ but it’s proud to report some recent business news, including the opening of the highly anticipated opening of The Alfond Inn.

The 112-room Preferred Boutique Hotel features ample meeting space, a fabulous restaurant and a bar, sure to be the favorite watering hole of many who remember The Langford Hotel. Be among the first to enjoy the hospitality of the Inn at the Chamber’s September Business After Hours event on Thursday, Sept. 19. As with many events, networking will not be in short supply, nor will hors d’oeuvres and drinks. However, this event does require an RSVP. The cost to attend is $5 for members and $15 for non-members. Reservations can be made at winterpark.org or tickets can be purchased at the Winter Park Welcome Center by Sept. 13.

Learning opportunities abound

Business professionals can also head back to the classroom this fall with several educational opportunities at the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce. On Sept. 12, Winter Park Executive Women will meet for their monthly networking luncheon and hear from Mary Gardner from MG Inspired! on the art of public speaking. Never fear, glossophobics! Ms. Gardner will provide simple techniques and exercises to help you build your confidence and engage audiences in any scenario.

That same week, on Friday, Sept. 16, business professionals can explore employee relations at the Small Business Education Series. Carol Anderson, principal at Anderson Performance Partners, will share insights on managing people. Attendees will walk away with tips on identifying opportunities for performance improvements, how to deal with difficult employees and implementing team development techniques. Details on both events can be found at winterpark.org under the “Programs and Events” tab.

All work and no play

Enough about the serious topics, let’s move on to the social events. The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce and Park Avenue Merchants Association will host their final Sip & Stroll event on Thursday, Sept. 12. The fun, fall evening is an ideal opportunity to experience the charm of Park Avenue and discover many of the local merchants that make our downtown so vibrant. More than 25 shops and restaurants will say open late for attendees to stop by for wine and appetizer pairings and to see what’s in store this fall season. This event attracts 400 guests to downtown and is extremely popular – advance reservations are strongly encouraged. Details and tickets are available at experienceparkavenue.com

Erika Spence is the senior director of marketing and communications at the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce.