BELLEVIEW, FL (352today.com) – Business leaders in Belleview celebrated the first of what will be many events for the newly-created Belleview Chamber and Economic Partnership (CEP).

The Belleview CEP appeared to have a successful turnout. According to the CEP’s Facebook page, they planned for 300 people and instead had nearly 500 in attendance at its first event Thursday at the St. Mark’s Greek Orthodox Church.

Lewis Stokes (center) from 93.7 K-Country and his wife, Angie Ray Stokes (right), pose with the CEP’s Sign Guy to show their support for the newly created Belleview CEP. Courtesy: Kelly McAtee/Ocala CEP
Brandon Carmel, from Pat Myers Electric (left), and Tom James, Director of Executive Engagement for the Ocala CEP (right), enjoy the launch event. Courtesy: Kelly McAtee/Ocala CEP
The CEP’s sign guy was everywhere at the launch event. Courtesy: Kelly McAtee/Ocala CEP
A representative from Family’s Choice Electrical Repair Inc was excited to see his logo on the CEP Sign Guy’s pants. Courtesy: Kelly McAtee/Ocala CEP

According to its website, the goal of the Belleview CEP is to foster economic prosperity and growth within the community.

Ribbon cuttings, networking events and educational programs are all part of the services the CEP provides in its attempts to attract, retain and create businesses in the area.

If you’d like to join the Belleview CEP or sponsor an upcoming event, visit the CEP website.

The CEP Sign Guy, also known as Matt Wilkerson, the Director of Partner Success for the Ocala CEP, didn’t miss an opportunity to take a selfie with attendees. Courtesy: Kelly McAtee/Ocala CEP
The Belleview CEP expected 300 for the launch event. They said 468 showed up. Courtesy: Kelly McAtee/Ocala CEP
Courtesy: Kelly McAtee/Ocala CEP