Our First Friday program for May is all about beef. The sponsor for this month's program is Waste Management. Our featured speakers are Dr. Cliff Lamb, Asst. Dir. and Prof. at UF's North FL Research Center, and Herman Laramore, co-owner of the Bar L Ranch and Public Defender for the 14th Judicial Circuit. They will give us an inside view of the cattle industry and how it impacts us. Jackson County is one of the largest cattle counties in Florida, and ranks first in total production in the Panhandle.

Dr. Lamb and Mr. Laramore are professional communicators who know how to connect with an audience about their favorite topic – beef! Dr. Lamb is an international authority on cattle research and Mr. Laramore breeds and ships over 1000 calves a year.

They will share insights on how the beef industry has changed, what influences the price of cattle, the impacts of weather and input costs on beef production, some of the latest research developments, and consumer safety of beef products.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn about one of Jackson County's most important industries. Our Power Breakfast starts with breakfast at 7:00am. The program kicks off at 7:45am.

A special added feature of this month's program is the presentation of a check by the United Way to the Jackson County agencies receiving United Way funds. Funds raised by the United Way come directly back into the community from which they are raised.

BUSINESS TRAINING OPPORTNITIES

Once again the certified business consultant from the Small Business Development Center will be available at the Chamber right after the First Friday program to provide free mentoring and advisory services for business owners or those wanting to start a business. Sign up to discuss your small business needs for start-up or existing businesses! Call 1-800-542-7232 for an appointment time between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. or e-mail Quen Lamb at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Our First Friday Program for December, which is normally this week, has been moved to Friday December 16th, the Third Friday of December.