With cyber technology and threat actors in a race to see who can outsmart whom, protecting your business can seem like a complicated undertaking. With all the patches, antivirus software, and cyber awareness training, you may wonder where to start. The answer? Your network.
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Understanding the intricacies of your network, from its architecture to its endpoints, is a foundational principle of effective cybersecurity. Lacking this knowledge leaves critical vulnerabilities unaddressed, making it imperative to grasp the complexities of your network's inner workings to safeguard against ever-evolving cyber threats.

Here are some tips to ignite your cybersecurity fortification journey:

1. Network mapping and inventory. Begin with an extensive mapping of your network and create an inventory of hardware and software assets. Knowing what exists in your network is the first step toward securing it effectively. Maintain an updated list of all devices, software, and their configurations.

2. Access control. Implement stringent access controls and limit access to sensitive data and systems only to those who need it. Regularly review and update access permissions as personnel change and ensure every team member understands their security responsibilities.

3. Incident response plan. Knowing what to do in a crisis can minimize damage and downtime. Develop a well-defined incident response plan that outlines the steps to take in the event of a cyberattack. An incident response plan should identify key internal and external stakeholders, as well as cover incident investigation, forensic evidence collection, remediation, return to normal operations, and post-incident analysis for continuous improvement.

4. Regular vulnerability scanning. Understanding where vulnerabilities exist allows you to prioritize and address them proactively. Conduct regular vulnerability assessments and penetration tests to identify weak points in your network's security.

5. Security patch management. Unpatched systems are often entry points for cyberattacks. Stay vigilant about applying security patches and updates to all network components, including operating systems, applications, and network devices.

6. Monitor and detect. Proactively spotting potential threats allows for rapid response. Employ network monitoring tools and intrusion detection systems to detect suspicious activities in real-time, enhancing your ability to thwart cyber threats in their tracks.

7. Data backup and recovery. Regularly back up your critical data and ensure that backups are stored securely and independently from the primary network. In the event of a ransomware attack, having accessible and uncorrupted backups can help prevent you from falling victim to extortion.

8. Expert collaboration. Utilizing resources such as an attorney, data breach coach, or cyber insurance advisor can help you devise strategies to fortify your network’s security posture. An experienced cyber insurance advisor can partner with you in this continual cybersecurity process by helping you identify potential exposures, offer resources, such as incident response teams, and create customized risk mitigation solutions that align with your unique profile.
 
The more knowledge you possess, the more power you have to protect your organization’s network. The Baldwin Group leverages industry-leading technology and relationships with top insurance companies to cultivate solutions to fortify your business for whatever tomorrow holds.

Watson Clinic offers a comprehensive array of women’s healthcare services with an expanded roster of providers, services and convenient appointment availability.

Their OB-GYN department recently welcomed two new physicians at their Watson Clinic Highlands location – Dr. Faria Ahmed and Dr. Henna Ahsan. Both currently offer open appointment availability for all women’s OB-GYN concerns. Call 863-680-7243 for more information and to schedule an appointment. The department has also recruited an additional OB-GYN Hospitalist – Dr. Heidi Beining – who treats patients exclusively from Lakeland Regional Health.

Gynecologist Dr. John R. Ellington, Jr. and registered nurse practitioner Wendi Johnson, APRN offer a roster of services for all ages from the Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building, including contraceptive counseling, family planning and fertility solutions, female cancer screening, and treatments for menopausal symptoms, breast issues, pelvic pain, abnormal menstrual issues, sexual dysfunction, painful intercourse, decreased libido, osteoporosis, vaginal issues, urinary incontinence and abnormal pap smears. In addition, Ms. Johnson is a certified lactation consultant who counsels new mothers on proper breastfeeding techniques. She also performs laser hair removal treatments in-office.

Routine, same-day and next-day appointments with Dr. Ellington may be scheduled by calling 863-680-7418. Appointments with Ms. Johnson may be scheduled by calling 863-904-6238.

Urogynecologist and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgeon Dr. Tarek Garas accepts appointments from two convenient locations – the Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building and Watson Clinic Bartow Building B. He specializes in the treatment of pelvic floor disorders, including incontinence issues that can result from factor like pregnancy, childbirth and menopause. Dr. Garas’ patients have found tremendous success in his use of sacral neuromodulation, a minimally invasive approach that manages both urinary and fecal incontinence issues and vastly improves quality of life.

Dr. Garas’ areas of expertise also include minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, contraception services, and treatments for infertility, menopausal symptoms, pelvic pain, fibroids and pelvic organ prolapse. Appointments may be scheduled by calling 863-680-7312.

Gynecologic Oncologist Dr. Logan Blankenship offers open appointment availability from her office at the Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building. Dr. Blankenship specializes in minimally invasive robotic surgery, gynecologic malignancies and other complex gynecologic issues. Appointments with Dr. Blankenship may be scheduled by calling 863-680-7578.

Additional women’s healthcare resources from Watson Clinic – including information on their departments of breast surgery, mammography, plastic & reconstructive surgery and more – can be found on their blog by clicking here. 

The Florida Chamber Leadership Cabinet on Safety, Health, and Sustainability is excited to host the 2025 Corporate Leadership Workshop: Safety & Mental Health in the Workplace on January 28, 2025, at the Guidewell Innovation Center in Lake Nona, Orlando, FL.

This one-day, in-person workshop is designed to equip Florida businesses with actionable strategies for fostering safer, healthier, and more resilient workplaces in 2025 and beyond.

Why You Should Attend:
This hands-on event features two outstanding speakers:

• Mark Morgan, a safety leader with over 20 years of experience driving safety excellence at Fortune 200 companies such as NextEra Energy and American Airlines. As a passionate advocate for leadership, Mark is also the author of The M.A.D. Safety Book for Leaders, which attendees will receive as part of their registration. His work has transformed safety cultures and inspired teams to embrace proactive leadership.
  
• Dr. Heather Flynn, Ph.D., a nationally recognized expert in mental health care integration with over 25 years of experience. Dr. Flynn serves as Chair of the Department of Behavioral Sciences and Social Medicine at the FSU College of Medicine and has led groundbreaking research on mental wellness in workplaces. Her strategies empower leaders to build resilient teams and create cultures of care.

Attendees will gain practical leadership tools, strategies to improve workplace mental health, and the opportunity to network with business professionals across Florida. Registration includes complimentary lunch, CEUs, and a copy of Mark Morgan’s book.

Share this event with others as a valuable resource to kick off the year with leadership excellence.

Share with oothers!

• View the event flyer.
• Post on Social Media: Click here to view and repost our official LinkedIn announcement.
  
  

For Chamber members, an exclusive promo code is available: FLCHAMBER10, providing a 10% discount on registration.

Understanding how insurance policies work in tandem with one another helps ensure you don’t overpay or end up without the proper coverage. When determining which coverage gaps and overlaps may impact your business, consider these questions:

• Do you have coverage if employees sue your business?

Consider looking into Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) and Directors and Officers (D&O) coverage.

• Are you covered if customers sue you for professional negligence?

Professional Liability or Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance can help protect you against these types of claims.

• If an event forces you to temporarily close your business, are your operating expenses insured?

Ask your broker how Business Interruption insurance and Supply Chain insurance might offer financial protection for your company.

• What happens if your mechanical systems break down?

Equipment Breakdown insurance might be able to help you get back on track.

• Is your business covered if it is damaged by a flood?

Most commercial property insurance excludes floods, so you might need to purchase separate flood coverage.

• Do you have cyber insurance?

Cyber insurance can help provide financial protection from wide-ranging cyber events and is crucial as more businesses rely on technology to operate.

• What happens if your employees are injured abroad?

Consider purchasing Business Travel Accident insurance (a commercial insurance policy) but be sure that your Employee Benefits and Commercial Insurance broker are aligned so you aren’t paying for overlapping policies.

• Do you know the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost value as it relates to your policy?

Your property insurance policy might cover the actual replacement value of the building itself, but the contents of the building may only be covered at a depreciated value. This could have negative financial implications when you’re rebuilding after an event.

• How do exclusionary clauses impact your coverage?

For riskier events that result in heftier losses, carriers may include exclusionary language that would leave you financially liable for those specific scenarios.

• Do your policies have restrictive sublimits?

Insurance companies might also put a cap for certain losses that differ from other events covered by your policy.

• How do high deductibles impact your ability to use your policy?

If you choose a higher deductible for your policy, you need to think about whether you have the financial liquidity to meet your deductible for your insurance to kick in when you do need to use it.

• Are you paying for unnecessary or overlapping coverage?

An experienced broker will take the time to learn the ins and outs of your business, quantify your risk, and find coverage that aligns with your business needs so you don’t end up paying extra money for insurance you might not need or that might already be covered by another policy.

Understand your coverage to eliminate insurance gaps and overlaps. The Baldwin Group’s advisors have the experience and expertise to review your needs and help ensure you’re properly covered.

 Visit www.baldwin.com. Let us help you protect what's possible.

Kathryn Koch, LUTCF, CLU, RFP |Partner
T 863-904-7409| E [email protected]

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce with its designation of Accredited with 5 Stars for its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community. The Lakeland Chamber was first accredited in 1968 and has maintained 5-star ratings since 2009. 

“Chambers of Commerce that achieve an Accreditation designation are truly leaders in their industry.” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber Vice President, Federation Relations and IOM.  “This rigorous review includes all aspects of a chamber’s policies, operations, and programming.  When chambers of commerce earn the distinction of becoming Accredited, it is a mark of excellence for the organization, its staff, and its leadership. Accredited chambers are recognized for their ability to serve as a resource to their region’s businesses while maintaining transparent governance practices, sound financial controls, safe work environments, effective communications, and value in programming.  They are commended for their continued advocacy of free enterprise, and for their commitment to serving members and their local businesses. 

The purpose of the U.S. Chamber's Accreditation Program is to facilitate continuing excellence in the chamber industry and to foster a pro-business environment across America. In order to receive Accreditation, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, communications, and technology. This extensive self-review can take 6-9 months to complete.  

 "While the Accreditation process is time-consuming, it has allowed both staff and volunteers to examine our governance, finances and programs to ensure that the organization is set up to meet the needs of Lakeland's growing business community," said Amy Wiggins, President & CEO. "This recognition truly belongs to each member, volunteer, board director, and staff for their work to continuously improve the Chamber and our impacts on Lakeland's success."

This incredible achievement would not have been possible without the work of our 55-year Accreditation Task Force, including: 

Task Force Chair:
Will Link (Reed Mawhinney & Link) 

Section Chairs: 
1. Governance – Jason Rodda (Rodda Construction) 
2. Finance – Dana Hurley (Allen & Company of Florida, Inc.) 
3. Human Resources – Co-Chairs Don Selvage (SHR Human Resources) + Melanie Cooper (Saddle Creek Logistics Services)
4. Government Affairs – William Roll (Kimley-Horn & Associates)
5. Program Development – Par Sahota (Boring Business Services)
6. Technology – Grace Troise (MIDFLORIDA Credit Union)
7. Communications – Lori Martini (GiveWell Community Foundation) 
8. Facilities – Derek Oxford (CPS Investment Advisors) 
9. Benchmarking – Amanda Walls (Peterson & Myers, P.A.)  

Local chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars, or 5-Stars. Currently, there are 194 Accredited chambers of commerce across the country, with only 14 in Florida, and only 10 of which are 5 Star Accredited. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board, a committee of U.S. Chamber board members.  

About the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce 
The Lakeland Chamber of Commerce serves as the Catalyst for business success, Convener of leaders and influencers, and Champion for our thriving community. Its vision is to be the premier catalyst for the advancement of Lakeland’s economic growth and enhancement of quality of life.  

Sometimes it can be difficult to accommodate your healthcare appointments during a busy work week. That’s why a number of Watson Clinic specialists offer appointment availability on Saturdays.

Watson Clinic Main Optometry specialists Michelle Espanto, OD, FAAO and Elizabeth George, DO see patients on select Saturdays. Saturday Optometry appointments may be scheduled by calling 863-680-7486.

Caitlyn Beacham, APRN, a registered nurse practitioner who works alongside ENT/Facial Plastic Surgery physicians Dr. Serge Jean and Dr. Pranay Patel, offers Saturday availability for ENT services from her office at the Watson Clinic Bella Vista Building. Saturday appointments with Ms. Beacham are available between the hours of 8 am and 2 pm. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 863-904-6296.

Watson Clinic board-certified Internal Medicine specialist Dr. Guillermo Vasquez and his team - including registered nurse practitioners Emily Beriswill, APRN, Brandi Plummer, APRN, and Jennifer Potts, APRN - offer extended weekday and Saturday appointment availability for both new and established patients from their offices at Watson Clinic South. Dr. Vasquez specializes in general primary care services, routine check-ups, sick care, diabetes management, and screenings for heart disease and other chronic conditions. Department of Transportation physicals may also be scheduled at his office. Call 863-680-7190 to schedule an appointment. 

When immediate pediatric care is needed on a Saturday, the Watson Clinic North Pediatrics location offers appointment availability between the hours of 8 am to 12 pm for sick visits and newborns. Saturday appointments cannot be reserved in advance and must be scheduled on the same day by calling 863-680-7337. This location also offers same-day appointments for check-ups, vaccinations, sports physicals, sick visits, and more.

Illnesses and injuries don’t take weekends off, and neither do our walk-in care facilities. Watson Clinic Urgent Care Main and Urgent Care South locations are open seven days a week, including Saturdays and Sundays, between the hours of 8 am and 6 pm. The Watson Clinic XpressCare Highlands facility is open every day of the week as well, including every Saturday from 8 am – 6 pm and every Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm.

For more information on Watson Clinic’s Saturday appointment availability, visit their blog by clicking here.

A federal court in Texas halted the implementation of the Corporate Transparency Act’s (CTA) beneficial ownership reporting requirements. Holding that the CTA is likely unconstitutional, the court issued a preliminary injunction barring the government from enforcing the CTA and its reporting requirements against anyone. 

Prior to the ruling, small businesses that met certain criteria would have had to file reports with the Department of the Treasury by January 1, 2025, or risk fines and criminal penalties.

The preliminary relief will remain in effect until the conclusion of legal proceedings, at which point the court may enter a permanent injunction. In the meantime, the government will likely appeal the preliminary injunction. 

Unless and until an appellate court overrules or narrows the injunction, no businesses are obligated to comply with the reporting requirements.

Background on the CTA
The CTA was enacted by Congress on January 1, 2021, as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.  The CTA included significant reforms to anti-money laundering laws and is intended to help prevent and combat money laundering, terrorist financing, corruption, and tax fraud.  

Under the act, small businesses in the United States need to file beneficial ownership information reports (BOIR) with the Department of the Treasury by January 1.
Failure to submit the new paperwork by the deadline puts small business owners at risk of criminal penalties, imprisonment, and fines up to $10,000.

Click here to read more from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Expanded Eligibility Provides Thousands of Children Access to Affordable Health Insurance While Supporting Families Working Their Way Up the Economic Ladder

Florida’s KidCare Expansion Approved: A Major Victory for Cutting Florida Childhood Poverty in Half and a Big Win for Families and Economic Mobility
Expanded Eligibility Provides Thousands of Children Access to Affordable Health Insurance While Supporting Families Working Their Way Up the Economic Ladder

The Florida Chamber of Commerce applauds the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) approval of Florida’s expansion of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), called KidCare. This is a pivotal milestone that will expand access to affordable health care for families across the state of Florida. This long-awaited decision raises the income eligibility limit for the KidCare program from 215% to 300% of the federal poverty level, increasing the income cap for a family of four from $64,500 to $90,000. As a result, thousands of hardworking Florida families who work will now have access to attainable health insurance for their children. According to TheFloridaScorecard.org, the number of children in poverty in Florida has been reduced from approximately 950,000 to 740,000, and this change will help these families in substantive ways.

Passed in 2023 through Florida House Bill 121 and championed by the Florida Chamber, this initiative flattens the fiscal cliffs, so a family doesn’t have to choose between a modest pay raise or losing essential benefits like health insurance for their children. By gradually phasing in expanded eligibility, Florida is ensuring that families can work their way up the economic ladder without jeopardizing their children’s health coverage and further mitigating the fiscal cliffs.

“Expanding access to health care is essential for building stronger families and is a key component in meeting the Florida 2030 Blueprint goals of cutting Florida childhood poverty in half and making Florida a top 5 state for overall well-being,” said Mark Wilson, President of the Florida Chamber of Commerce & Foundation. “This decision, in line with the Florida Chamber Foundation Prosperity Project Recommendations, is smart policy, ensuring families can focus on job skills and moving up the economic ladder without sacrificing their children’s health coverage.”

For years, the Florida Chamber Foundation’s Florida Prosperity Project has been highlighting the need to flatten fiscal cliffs, which reflects our commitment to reducing childhood poverty by half and fostering prosperity for all Floridians. Rooted in recommendations from the Florida Prosperity Project’s Less Poverty, More Prosperity: The Florida Fiscal Cliffs Report, this milestone underscores the power of data-driven policy and persistent focus.

“This decision is more than just a policy victory; it represents a meaningful step forward for Florida families striving for economic stability while safeguarding their children’s well-being,” said Kyle Baltuch, Executive Vice President of the Florida Chamber Foundation.

To learn more or get involved in the Florida Chamber Foundation Florida Prosperity Project’s efforts to cut Florida childhood poverty in half and secure a path to prosperity for all Floridians, click here.

Source: Florida Chamber of Commerce

Photo provided by Bank of Central Florida

Since its inception in 2006, Baldwin Krystyn Sherman Partners, LLC — now The Baldwin Group Southeast, LLC, effective June 26, 2024 — has been a trusted name in the insurance and risk management industry. Established by trailblazing industry veterans, Lowry Baldwin, Elizabeth Krystyn, and Laura Sherman, a distinguished, entrepreneurial insurance brokerage niche was created.
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Known for its innovative solutions in Commercial Insurance and Risk Management, Private Insurance, Employee Benefits Administration, and Asset and Income Protection, The Baldwin Group has consistently delivered strategies that align with clients' goals and passions domestically and internationally.

The Baldwin Group is committed to our clients, and our founding principles remain steadfast. This rebranding is more than a name change — it symbolizes a renewed dedication to empowering our clients to pursue their purposes, passions, and dreams with confidence.

About The Baldwin Group
The Baldwin Group represents the consolidated expertise of The Baldwin Insurance Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: BWIN) and its affiliates, forming a dynamic, independent insurance distribution network. The Baldwin Group proudly serves over two million clients with a presence spanning the United States and an international reach.
Our mission is clear: to provide tailored solutions and deliver unparalleled value through risk management, insurance, and employee benefits. As a team of entrepreneurial insurance professionals, we are committed to protecting the possible for our clients by offering bespoke strategies and leveraging innovative resources. Whether it's safeguarding businesses, families, or personal aspirations, we align our expertise with what matters most to our clients.

A full-service approach to risk management. At its core, The Baldwin Group's approach to service is centered on our clients. By relentlessly pursuing customized solutions and assembling the industry's top advisors and client teams, we empower our clients to thrive. This client-first philosophy has been a cornerstone of our success and will remain integral as we move forward under our new identity.

Our comprehensive offerings include:

• Commercial risk solutions: Proactive strategies that help mitigate risk and protect businesses from unforeseen challenges.
• Private risk management: Safeguarding personal assets with precision and care.
• Employee benefits and benefits administration: Building programs that support and enrich employees while ensuring compliance and efficiency.
• Wealth management: Offering insights and strategies to help protect and grow income and assets.

Looking Ahead
As The Baldwin Group, we will continue to deliver the exceptional service and expertise that clients have come to expect while harnessing the strength of a national network of nearly 40 regional brands transitioning to The Baldwin Group name. This unified structure enables us to provide a seamless, comprehensive suite of services to meet the diverse needs of our clients.
While the name has changed, our mission remains the same: to be a trusted partner, helping our clients navigate the complexities of risk and achieve their goals. The Baldwin Group represents not just continuity but also growth, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

For more information about our services and the new chapter ahead, visit www.baldwin.com. Let us help you protect what's possible.