Testimonials from L.A. Events, Inc. Clients

March 25, 2014

Manatee County Chamber of Commerce
Awards Committee
222 10th Street West
Bradenton, FL 34205


Dear Awards Committee:

On behalf of InStride Therapy, Inc., I would like to recommend Lisa Arrigo-Hoban of L.A. Events, Inc. for the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce small business award this year.  

With regard to this award, L.A. Events owner Lisa Arrigo-Hoban’s work ethic and dedication to community outreach is unparalleled. Recently, L.A. Events worked closely with InStride Therapy’s committee and staff to plan our signature fundraiser, The 2nd Annual Mane Event. Recognizing us as a non-profit organization that strives to increase community wellness, L.A. Events donated a portion of their time and services to support our cause. The planning began six months in advance of the event date and included monthly meetings with minutes regarding decoration and auction organization, program planning with our marketing partner, and catering details for over 300 guests. Mrs. Arrigo-Hoban and her staff were readily available and were quick to answer phone calls and emails.  She used her personal resources and experience to help InStride reach out to new people and was willing to work extra hours to make sure the event was flawless. 

L.A. Events showed the utmost respect for our committee members, our facility, and our horses.  They did an outstanding job organizing an important event that focuses on raising money for financially needy riders who benefit from our therapy services.  This year’s event exceeded our expectations as we increased the amount of funds raised from last year! Lisa Arrigo-Hoban’s character and passion are contagious, and she became part of our InStride family while working with us on The Mane Event.  She truly exhibits an extraordinary attitude that focuses on community outreach and philanthropy before personal profit.   We can only hope that L.A.Events will accept an invitation to help with our 3rd Annual Mane Event next year!

You will not be disappointed to feature L.A.Events as the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year.  Thank you for your time and please consider them for this prestigious award. 

Sincerely,
Donna Blem
Donna Blem, Executive Director

February 21, 2013




Dear Fellow Manatee Chamber Members

It is a pleasure for me to write a letter of recommendation for L.A. Events, Inc. The nomination for the 2013 Small Business of the Year Award is well deserved.  I have known Lisa Arrigo Hoban for several years and have always admired her collaborative spirit, undying energy and attention to detail.

As CEO of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee, Inc. for over 20 years, I had worked with many fund raising personnel and companies.  I engaged Lisa in 2005 to help Meals on Wheels achieve the next level with our already successful annual fundraiser, Tropical Nights.  It had been growing each year but we were unable to reach the next level.   Lisa brought a fresh approach with innovative ideas not only for the event but also for reaching new sponsors and creative revenue generating ideas.   That year the event more than doubled in gross revenue and tripled in guest attendance.

Beyond being an entrepreneur in this community, Lisa extends her expertise to many non-profits to help them grow and learn from her creative approach to looking “outside of the box.”  Her community spirit is visualized by the outstanding success of the USF Brunch on the Bay, the Realize Bradenton Blues Festival and Museum’s many events.

As an alumnus of Leadership Manatee, 1994 class, I have seen Lisa continue to be actively involved in the continued collaboration of business leaders, Leadership Manatee graduates and the community at large.  Lisa may be a renowned business leader but more importantly she represents the culture and compassion the Chamber recognizes in their leaders.

With total support,



Ellen J Campbell