About Us

The Private Business Association of Seminole (PBAS) founded in 1993 by Commissioner Dick Van Der Weide; Marty Chan, Vice President of Energy Property Management; Anne Russell, President of Energy Property Management and Richard Ryan, President of Prismatic. In organizing the Association, 14 charter members became elected officers and formed standing committees, including Brenda Carey, Larry Dale, Mike Hattaway, Bob Hattaway, Mike Bass, Hugh Harling, Bev Weinsburg, Tom Kuhn, Ken Wright and Brindley Pieters.

PBAS is a non-partisan, non-profit corporation established to focus attention on issues that impact the business community, by identifying issues of vital concern to independent businessmen and women. PBAS provides private business owners and community leaders with the means to stay informed of current and relevant issues. A problem-solving “think tank” of blue-ribbon businessmen and women. The group works to achieve open lines of communication with elected officials and business leaders in order to promote effective solutions.

Members meet for breakfast once a month to receive updates on issues of current concern. Guest speakers regularly present a program on current issues. Membership is by invitation only, and is restricted to owners, partners, or major shareholders of privately owned businesses located in or doing business in Seminole County. The membership is limited to 100 members.

PBAS shall endeavor to identify issues of vital concern to the private business community of Seminole County and facilitate the implementation of economic development strategies and solutions.

PBAS shall endeavor to assist private business owners to achieve their goals and public officials to fairly serve the interests of their private business constituents.

PBAS shall endeavor to support and promote Seminole County as a place that accommodates economic growth while preserving its natural surroundings and excellent quality of life enjoyed by its residents.