L to R: Ryan Harris, Taylor Falkner, Jill McGarry, Matthew Plummer, Michelina Carbone, Amanda Tullidge and Mark Barnebey.

The Manatee Chamber of Commerce and Manatee Young Professionals held their annual MYP MVP Awards on February 17th, 2022 at Bishop Museum of Science and Nature.

Blalock Walters was awarded “Employer of the Year” for implementing creative and intentional initiatives to attract and retain young talent to the Bradenton/Sarasota area. When addressing the crowd, the award announcer said this about the firm:

“This year’s winner serves as a great example of an employer committed to the growth and development of young professionals – and how an employer can positively impact our local talent pipeline by implementing strategies that encourage young professionals to work, play, contribute and stay local.

At this company, one-third of the workforce is under the age of 40. Attracting and retaining bright, young talent is key to the continued excellence that this business strives for on behalf of its clients. Even more so is taking the time to grow this talent by teaching them real-world skills needed in their field and fully integrating them into the culture and values of the company.

This business has implemented mentorship programs, employee perks programs, a corporate wellness program, annual performance reviews, and team celebrations. This business also offers outstanding benefits, compensation, recognition, and professional development opportunities.

Once their young associates complete onboarding and orientation, they are paired with a senior-level mentor, referred to as a “Champion.” These Champions have an important responsibility to ensure a young associate’s success and to inspire them to make a positive difference within the company as well as in the community.

Since its inception over 95 years ago, this company has remained dedicated to the legacy of giving back to the community. Their tagline is “We Make a Difference” and this not only applies to their clients, but also to their employees and our community. This business has a culture of encouraging its employees to find out what they are passionate about and become involved in the community, and vows to support the charitable paths their employees want to take. Congratulations to this year’s MUP MVP Employer of the Year, Blalock Walters, P.A.”

Congratulations to all the nominees and honorees, including real estate attorney Amanda Tullidge, one of this year’s Individual Business nominee.

Business Individual of the Year
Katie Howard, Insurance Time of Bradenton, Inc.

Non-Profit of the Year
Danielle Visone, Tidewell Hospice

Entrepreneur of the Year
Katy Kopstad, Sea Breeze Coffee and Tea

Employer of the Year
Blalock Walters, P.A.

MYP MVP of the Year
Mitch Lomazov, Excellence Performance