On August 12, 1983 the New York Times printed a small blurb,

In an effort to revitalize Puerto Rico’s troubled economy, the commonwealth’s Chamber of Commerce will open local offices in Washington, Los Angeles and Chicago this year, the chamber’s president, Robert Leith, said here today. The chamber now has one mainland office, in Miami.

Just short of 24 years later, the The Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce of Polk County, Inc. will launch. On August 4, 2007 the organization will hold an event at the Lakeland Public Library introducing the Board of Directors, their purpose and mission. Presentations from community leaders, special guests, and members of the Youth Council will fill out the four hour program.

PRCCPC President and CEO, Ana Rivera, outlined the target audience for the organization, “Our chamber not only will be working with the business community, Hispanic and non-Hispanic but with those from the island itself trying to branch out towards the mainland USA. Members can be business owners, non-for profit organizations and those not even in the business world. With the focus on Polk County and it’s unbelievable growth.”

Rivera also related the organization’s short-term plans, “Through out the first year we will be focusing on business related events, fundraising events, various types of corporate events, political events, career fair events and educational events. So there will be much work indeed to bring forth its success.”

The Lakeland Library event is Saturday, August 4, 2007 at 12:00pm, at 100 Lake Morton Drive. Seating is limited, so if you plan to attend, please RSVP by July 25,2007 to 863-838-2084 or 863-815-3651.