George Lamelza III

“When I was 12 years old he took me to a friend’s country club and got me a job washing dishes on the weekend,” Lamelza said. “At the end of the first month, he brought me the paycheck. It was for about $20. He asked how I liked the job, and I explained that it was one of the hardest things I had ever done, and $20 was not much money for all that work.”

George Lamelza II used the opportunity to tell his son that getting an education was essential. That advice and experience has influenced the younger Lamelza’s life ever since.

Lamelza, a 1994 graduate of Evangel University, is the CEO and president of Team Media LLC, which provides services such as Web page hosting and design to individuals, companies and government entities in nearly 30 countries.

But it’s something he’s done in the Ozarks that he cites as a key accomplishment.

“One of the most significant accomplishments was the implementation of free Internet service to apartment renters,” Lamelza said. “(That) has changed the landscape of the entire apartment rental community in Springfield and surrounding areas, as most owners rush to install and offer this feature to their renters.”

Lamelza said he believes in the Springfield business community and the potential for small businesses. He said he expects great things from Team Media.

“The No. 1 thing I have not yet accomplished that I am working toward is to take a startup company public,” he said.

In the community, he is active with several organizations, including Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, Convoy of Hope, Muscular Dystrophy Association and Victory Mission’s Christmas gift program.

Born: 1969

What do you feel is your most important accomplishment to date? Being the daddy of two beautiful little girls. I love you, girls!

If you were faced with a difficult business decision, from whom would you seek advice, and why? My first reaction in every situation is to take it to God in prayer. Secondarily, I have about four or five close friends with whom I discuss difficult business decisions.

What’s your favorite Web site? www.teammediaonline.com, of course.