February 12, 2007 - Brevard Business News

Transcription

BBN
Vol. 25 No. 7
February 12, 2007
Brevard
$1.00
Business
News
A Weekly Space Coast Publication
Local wealth group now
part of growing St. Louis
company Stifel Nicolaus
By Ken Datzman
SUNTREE — The Laughlin,
McCarthy, Potter Wealth Management
Group, a local firm that has forged
hundreds of financial relationships with
individuals and businesses in the region,
is operating under a new flag.
The group has joined Stifel, Nicolaus
& Company Inc., a growing full–service
brokerage and investment–banking firm
that is expanding into Florida.
Founded in 1890, the company is
headquartered in St. Louis, Mo.
Dennis Laughlin, Brian Laughlin,
Brendan McCarthy and Jim Potter first
formed their team at Legg Mason in
Melbourne about three years ago. They
have worked together longer but not as a
partnership.
In 2005, Legg Mason acquired
Citigroup’s asset–management business
in exchange for Legg Mason’s broker–
dealer business. The local group then
transitioned to the Smith Barney brand,
which is owned by Citigroup. Last week,
the team moved into larger quarters at
the Imperial Plaza office building on
North Wickham Road and put up its new
Stifel Nicolaus banner.
“We went on a quest months ago to
find the right home,” said Potter, who
manages the office. “We took care of our
client business during the weekdays and
on the weekends we visited firms around
the nation. The reason we did so is
because we wanted to replicate as closely
as possible what we had at Legg Mason.
It was very hard to find the right
affiliation. There are not many Legg
Masons left anymore, but we found a
perfect fit with Stifel. We were patient in
our search and it paid off. We absolutely
believe we have made the right decision
for our clients, for ourselves and for our
families.”
They met with the leadership of Stifel
Nicolaus in St. Louis and came away
thinking it was the best strategic fit. “We
wanted to get back to the culture of a
regional firm, which is Stifel’s profile,”
said McCarthy, whose father, Gene
McCarthy, ran Legg Mason locally for
years. “They have fewer than 1,000
financial advisers nationwide. Our team
is intact and we’re excited about the
transition.”
Stifel Nicolaus has co–chief operating
officers — James Zemlyak and Scott
Please see Stifel Nicolaus, page 19
BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth
The Laughlin, McCarthy, Potter Wealth Management Group has joined Stifel Nicolaus, a full–service
brokerage and investment–banking firm founded in 1890 and headquartered in St. Louis. The team
is housed in the Imperial Plaza office building on North Wickham Road in Melbourne. From left:
Brendan McCarthy, Brian Laughlin, Jim Potter and Dennis Laughlin. This is Stifel Nicolaus’ second
office in Florida. The number will soon grow to five.
Fast–Cat helps construction crews stay on schedule
By Elwin Green
Scripps Howard Service
headquarters, and one in the hands of
the superintendent overseeing the work
of plumbers, electricians, welders.
At any time, a change in one set of
drawings might require that all sets be
changed. Or worse, people working from
other sets might never know about the
change — or learn about it only when it
becomes a problem costing time and
money to fix.
The pursuit of a solution resulted in
Fast–Cat — a tablet–style computer that
contains portable construction documents.
In today’s computing world, the Fast–
Cat’s hardware is not impressive, it is
built upon a 1.1 GHz Pentium processor
and comes with either 512 megabytes or
one gigabyte of RAM, with a hard drive
Please see Fast–Cat, page 16
PRESORTED STANDARD
US POSTAGE
PAID
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS, INC.
A casual comment three years ago
launched Ray Steeb on a journey to
develop a product that could dramatically
reduce both the time and the cost of
building construction.
Knowing of Steeb’s 20–plus years
experience in the construction industry,
most of it with Turner Construction,
Jared Cohon, the president of Carnegie
Mellon University, suggested that it
would be great if Steeb could capture his
experience in a way that would make it
available to others.
That led Steeb, who founded his own
construction firm, Steeb Crawford
Construction, four years ago in the
Pittsburgh, Pa., area, to think about not
only how to capture all of his experience,
but how to eliminate a pet peeve that
had dogged his experience: the management of construction drawings.
Construction drawings are nothing
like the architect’s renderings that
appear in the newspaper when a
developer announces plans to put up a
new building. Rather than showing how
the building will look, construction
drawings show how it is to be built — the
design and placement of electrical
systems, heating and air conditioning
systems, plumbing, wallboard, ceiling
panels, and so forth, down to the most
minute items.
Steeb’s peeve was that the complexity
of a building requires the maintenance of
several sets of drawings: one in the office
of the architect, one in the trailer that
serves as the general contractor’s on–site
BBN
DIGEST
PMC, Radio Disney to host
health–care party in Titusville
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Call Adrienne Roth at 951-7777 for Advertising Information
TITUSVILLE — Parrish Medical Center and Radio
Disney AM 990 will host the first Day of Dance for
Cardiovascular Health Street Party from 1 to 5 p.m. on
Saturday, Feb. 24, in downtown Titusville.
In addition to health screenings and information,
dance and fitness demonstrations and instruction, the
day will feature performances by national recording
artists The Beu Sisters and Katelyn Tarver, as heard
on Radio Disney AM 990.
The Beu Sisters live in New Smyrna Beach. Their
parents, who performed on Broadway, relocated from
New York in 1989. The Beu Sisters toured as the
opening act on Kelly Clarkson and Clay Aiken’s 2004
Independent Tour. They can also be heard on various
soundtracks, including Radio Disney Ultimate Jams
and DisneyMania.
Tarver took part in the first and only season of the
reality television program American Juniors. Competing against thousands of others who auditioned for the
show, she succeeded in making it to the finals (top 10).
Tarver’s debut music video, “Wonderful Crazy,” was
released in 2006 and she began touring with the Radio
Disney IncubaTor Tour and Jingle Jam Tour. Her song
“Something in Me” was also included in the TV series
South of Nowhere.
These rising stars will help promote cardiovascular
health among women and families in Central Florida.
The Day of Dance is the signature event for the
national Spirit of Women Red Shoe for Action initiative. The Spirit of Women Hospital Network is a
national coalition of hospitals and health–care facilities
in more than 65 U.S. cities. Parrish is Brevard’s
exclusive Spirit of Women hospital.
In addition to PMC and Radio Disney, the Titusville
Area Chamber of Commerce will be involved in the
event, which is free of charge and open to the public.
For more information, call 268–6110.
Photographer Handa has exhibit in Viera
Melbourne photographer Dennis Handa has his
work showcased at the Government Center in Viera.
Handa’s nature–based photography is comprised of
imagines of the various tropical birds and habitat
found in Florida. In the late 1960s in Portland, Ore., he
owned a retail music store. During that time, Handa
furnished stage and sound gear for the major musical
tours that came through Oregon. These tours included
musicians such as Jimi Hendrix, Led Zepplin, The
Who, Vanilla Fudge and Deep Purple. In the 1970s,
after selling his music business, he went to work for
CBS Musical Instruments (Fender Guitars) and
became head of marketing and artist relations. Handa
utilized his years of experience in the music world to
create unique advertising campaigns for such well–
known magazines as “Rolling Stone,” “Guitar Player”
and “International Musician.” During his years with
CBS he traveled worldwide and always took a camera
along. This was the start of his love affair with photography. Utilizing advanced technology with digital
cameras, and state–of–the–art computer and printing
equipment, Handa creates unique paintings. He has
been a featured photographer for “South West Graphics” magazine in Phoenix, Ariz., and a contributing field
photographer for “Nature Photographer.” Handa is a
member of the North American Nature Photographer
Association. His exhibit will be on display through
April 1. The Government Center is at 2725 Judge Fran
Jamieson Way.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
DIGEST
MIMA, Kiwi Tennis Club to
host USTA tourney in May
The MIMA Foundation/USTA Pro Tennis Classic
will be conducted May 6–13 at Kiwi Tennis Club in
Indian Harbour Beach. For the second year, the MIMA
Foundation of Brevard and Kiwi Tennis Club are
hosting the professional tennis tournament.
All proceeds from the event will benefit the MIMA
Foundation, a 501(c) 3 organization. The competition
will feature women’s professional tennis including
singles and doubles, with 74 matches scheduled.
Nearly 3,000 tennis enthusiasts attended the MIMA
Foundation’s inaugural pro tennis event, which raised
$75,000. The 2007 tournament proceeds will be applied
to the MIMA Foundation’s Healthcare Career Scholarship Fund, a major initiative for the organization.
Scholarships will be awarded to deserving men and
women pursuing a career in the health–care field in
Brevard County.
The event is free of charge to the public May 6
through May 10. Tickets may be purchased for the
quarterfinals, semifinals and finals. The MIMA Foundation is currently accepting monetary and in–kind
sponsorships for the 2007 Pro Tennis Classic. Contact
Holly Baney, MIMA Foundation executive director, at
698–0888 for sponsorship opportunities and ticket
requests.
The USTA Pro Circuit was launched 20 years ago
and is “America’s gateway to tennis stardom,” providing
players an opportunity to gain professional ranking
points needed to compete on the major tours.
“The MIMA Foundation/USTA Tennis Classic is an
opportunity for fans to experience the excitement and
intensity of professional tennis in Brevard County,” said
Baney. Players ranked as high as No. 25, who are
regulars at the WTA Tour events and are among top
contenders at Grand Slam tournaments, often play in
USTA Pro Circuit tournaments, she said. Alumni
include Maria Sharapova, Lindsay Davenport, Anna
Kournikva and Mary Pierce.
The Pro Circuit players will be active in community
outreach, too. They will participate in local school visits
to serve as role models and provide motivation for
children throughout the county, Baney said. “Additionally, they will host a free Kid’s Day Clinic at Kiwi
Tennis Club to promote tennis in Brevard. It’s a great
opportunity to have a positive impact on our local talent
and youth.”
For information regarding sponsorship opportunities,
ticket purchases, or to make a donation to the MIMA
Foundation, contact Baney at 698–0888 or visit
www.mimafoundation.org.
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“MORTGAGE MONEY”
BAC benefit Feb. 10 in Cocoa Village
The Brevard Achievement Center will host “An
Evening of Coffee and Chocolate” from 7 to 10 p.m. on
Saturday, Feb. 10, at the Cocoa Civic Center in Cocoa
Village. Proceeds from the benefit will support the BAC
and VSA Arts of Florida–Brevard. Tickets may be
purchased at these BAC locations: 1845 Cogswell St.,
Rockledge, and 300 North Drive, suite 104, Melbourne.
Tickets are also available at www.bacbrevard.com. The
auction will feature a number of sports memorabilia
items including a Barry Bonds–autographed baseball
jersey with certificate of authenticity. Other merchandise includes: a Raleigh Special Cruiser (single–speed
bicycle) donated by J&S Cyclery of Melbourne, a
chocolate boulder opal on a 20–inch gold chain donated
by Wesche Jewelers, and four tires of your choosing, a
$400 value, donated by Gatto’s Tires & Auto Service.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
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EDITORIAL
Cell phone use becoming a major problem for some people
By April Frawley Birdwell
“Turn off your cell phones and pagers.”
For most people, heeding these warnings in hospitals or at the movies is as simple as pressing a button.
But for a growing number of people across the globe,
the idea of being out of touch, even just for a 90–minute
movie, is enough to induce anxiety, says a University of
Florida psychologist who studies addictions to the
Internet and other technologies.
Although cellular phones and personal digital
assistants such as the BlackBerry were created to
make modern life more convenient, they’re actually
beginning to interfere in the lives of users who don’t
know when to turn them off, says Lisa Merlo, an
assistant professor of psychiatry in the UF College of
Medicine.
“It’s not so much talking on the phone that’s typically the problem although that can have consequences
too,” Merlo said. “It’s this need to be connected, to know
what’s going on and be available to other people. That’s
one of the hallmarks of cell phone addiction.”
Unlike addictions to alcohol, drugs or even gambling,
it can be hard to pinpoint problematic cell phone use.
Almost everyone has a cell phone and uses it regularly.
But if someone can’t get through dinner without
sending text messages or furiously typing on a personal
digital assistant during a meeting, it may be time to
take a step back, Merlo said.
How people respond to being separated from their
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Brevard
Business
News
4300 Fortune Place, Suite D
West Melbourne, FL 32904
(321) 951-7777
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PUBLISHER
Adrienne B. Roth
EDITOR
Ken Datzman
OFFICE MANAGER
Frank Schiffmann
Brevard Business News is published every Monday by
Brevard Business News Inc. Bulk Rate postage is paid at
Melbourne, FL and Cocoa, FL. This publication serves
business executives in Brevard County. It reports on
news, trends and ideas of interest to industry, trade,
agribusiness, finance, health care, high technology and
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Letters to the Editor must include the writer’s signature
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number. Brevard Business News reserves the right to edit
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32904.
cell phones or PDAs is another clue. Frequent users
often become anxious when they are forced to turn off
the phone or if they forget it at home, so much so that
they can’t enjoy whatever they’re doing, Merlo added.
Often, cell phone “addicts” compulsively check their
phones for voicemails and text messages, she said.
“When (cell phone overuse) really becomes problematic for a lot of people is if they have underlying anxiety
or depression,” she said. “This can really exacerbate it
or cause their symptoms to manifest themselves.”
For example, someone who already worries about
what others think of them could become easily agitated
if their phone calls or messages aren’t returned right
away.
“This is something that is going to affect them on a
day–to–day basis,” Merlo said.
The problem seems to be growing. A Japanese study
revealed that children with cell phones often don’t
make friends with their less tech–savvy peers, a
Hungarian study found that three–fourths of children
had mobile phones and an Italian study showed that
one quarter of adolescents owned multiple phones and
many claimed to be somewhat addicted to them. A
British study also recently found that 36 percent of
college students surveyed said they could not get by
without cell phones. But this may be more a sign that
students view cell phones as a modern necessity like a
car, said David Sheffield, a psychologist who conducted
the study at Staffordshire University in England.
“The most shocking figure was that 7 percent said
the use of mobile phones had caused them to lose a
relationship or a job,” Sheffield said.
Although experts have pinpointed these problems in
frequent cell phone users, studies have yet to show if a
bad cell phone habit constitutes an actual addiction. Yet
as with traditional addictions, excessive cell phone use
is associated with certain hallmark patterns of behavior, including using something to feel good, building up
a tolerance and needing more of it over time to get the
same feeling, and going through withdrawal if deprived
of it, Merlo said.
Cell phone users could start out with one phone and
switch to newer models with more advanced features or
PDAs that act like mini–computers over time to get the
same feeling they had with their first phone, she said.
Although withdrawal is typically considered a physical
response that occurs when the body goes without a
chemical, the anxiety cell phone users feel without their
phone could simply be another form of withdrawal.
“Those things lend toward the idea that maybe this
is an addiction, but maybe it’s manifesting in a little bit
different way than you would think of a chemical
substance,” Merlo said.
Addiction also causes changes in the brain, but
scientists have yet to measure what happens in the
brains of cell phone users, she said. Even eating and
other behaviors have been shown to produce the same
effects in the brain as drugs and alcohol in some people,
UF studies have shown.
For frequent phoners who do think they have a
problem or for parents of children obsessed with their
cells, Merlo advises downgrading to a basic phone with
fewer features and setting limits about where and
when to use the phone.
“Cell phones are a great technology,” Merlo said.
“They’re useful in a lot of situations. But one of the
most important things is making sure you have some
cell phone free time in your day. It’s OK to turn it off.
Focus on family, homework, knowing that cell phone
message will still be there.”
Florida Tech board elects three members as officers
The Florida Tech Board of Trustees elected three
members as officers at the winter 2007 meeting. They
are Phillip Farmer, chairman; Dale Dettmer, vice–
chairman; and Jim Thomas, secretary. These positions
previously were filled by Dr. Allen Henry, Farmer and
Dettmer, respectively. The officers will serve a one–year
term, effective immediately, and may be re–elected.
Farmer, of Indialantic, has been a member of the
board since 1994. He retired as Harris Corp.’s chairman, president and CEO in 2003 after a 21–year career
at the firm. Before joining Harris he held several
management and technical positions with General
Electric during a 20–year span. He earned a bachelor’s
degree in mathematics from Duke University.
Dettmer, of Merritt Island, joined the board in 1999.
He is a partner in the law firm Krasny and Dettmer in
Melbourne and is a member of the Florida Bar, the
American Bar and the Brevard County Bar associa-
tions. He has a master’s degree in electrical engineering
from Florida Tech and a bachelor’s degree from Purdue
University.
Thomas, a Florida Tech graduate with a bachelor’s
degree in mathematics, joined the board in 2005. Since
the early 1990s he has been involved in venture
capital–backed companies in two fast–growing industries, electronic entertainment and the Internet. He is a
cofounder of MapQuest, which later was sold to Yahoo.
In 2004, he founded Coastal Dominion Capital LLC, an
early–stage business investment firm. He is a resident
of Melbourne.
“The entire Florida Tech community is grateful to
Dr. Henry for his leadership for the past four years. We
look forward to the success of the new officers under
Mr. Farmer’s leadership as we approach our 50th
anniversary and our second half–century,” said Florida
Tech President Dr. Anthony Catanese.
Reindeer Run proceeds presented to UW
The City of Cape Canaveral recently presented proceeds from the 11th annual Reindeer Run/Walk to United
Way of Brevard. Kim McIntire, the race director, presented a check for $14,069.83 to Rob Rains, president of United
Way of Brevard. “This represents the largest net proceeds check in the history of this wonderful community event,
and a great jump–start for the 2007 United Way Campaign,” McIntire said. “We know it will be used to help make
a difference in our community and are proud to support United Way in this fashion.” This holiday–themed event
has been coordinated each year by the city’s Business and Cultural Development Board and boasted more than 411
participants as one of the Space Coast Runners Club’s 2006 series events. “We truly appreciate the continued
support of the City of Cape Canaveral team, and all the effort that it takes to make an event like the Reindeer Run
so successful,” Rains said. “The event has raised more than $86,000 in the past few years, helping us make a
difference in Brevard. This gift represents a 14 percent increase over last year’s event total, and the first dollars in
toward our fund–raising drive in the fall.” For more information on United Way, visit www.uwbrevard.org.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
DIGEST
Embry–Riddle and BCC sign
multiple articulation agreements
In a move to strengthen partnerships and add value
to students in aviation/aerospace studies, Brevard
Community College and the Space Coast campus of
Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University have announced
the signing of four agreements to join programs between
the colleges.
The new venture would join Embry Riddle’s bachelor
of science in professional aeronautics and bachelor of
science in technical management degrees and BCC’s
aerospace technology program.
The four agreements are designed to facilitate the
transfer of students, and anticipate the dual admission
of students who seek that approach to their education
program, said Juanita Curtis, Brevard Community
College’s program coordinator for aerospace.
“Students who choose the BCC aerospace technology
program now have several options to earn their degree
at BCC and move immediately forward in a leading
aerospace university,” Curtis said.
Embry–Riddle says it looks forward to working with
BCC in this partnership.
“This is a major opportunity for students transferring
to Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University in pursuit of
their bachelor’s degree,” said Jan Bridgham, director of
academic support of Embry Riddle’s Space Coast
campus. “They must have earned at least a minimum
cumulative grade–point average of 2.0 for all institutions attended to be considered for admission. They will
be welcomed into a university with a highly renowned
tradition within the aviation–aerospace community.”
According to Curtis, success in the BCC program will
result in an associate of science degree comprised of a
two–year, 70 credit–hour program that has been
designed as a full–time “cohort–centered” process.
Students are placed in classes of not more than 20
students who are selected through a special application
process.
“Once they graduate, they have four options to
articulate directly to Embry Riddle’s Space Coast
campus, saving them from $6,000 to $8,000 in costs for
the first two years of their education,” Curtis said.
With the upcoming changes in aerospace driven by
the new NASA vision for space, the emergence of small
jet aircraft for personal travel, and the aging technical
work force, opportunities for entry into “exciting careers
in aviation and space have never been brighter,” Curtis
said. For information regarding the BCC aerospace
technology program, call 433–7750.
Foster care orientation Feb. 15 in Cocoa
The Child Care Association of Brevard will conduct a
foster care and adoption recruitment orientation session
from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 15, at the
Marjorie Olsen Family and Child Center, 1403 Dixon
Blvd., in Cocoa. There are more than 587 children in
Brevard County who are in foster care due to abuse,
neglect or abandonment, but there are only 181 licensed
foster homes available in the region. Additionally, not
all licensed foster homes are accepting children. Due to
the lack of available foster homes, nearly one in four
foster children may be placed in out–of–county care
facilities. These orientation sessions will provide singles
and married couples who are considering becoming
foster care or adoptive parents with information on the
basic qualifications and training requirements. There
will also be opportunities to meet current foster–care
families. For more information, contact Melanie
Jackson at 634–3500 or Linda Marshall at 504–2047.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
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e-mail - [email protected]
2000 Highway A1A
Indian Harbour Beach, FL 32937
Nancy Taylor
Broker/Owner
BBN
EVENTS
Paralegal seminar Feb. 10 at King Center
Look who’s
smart
Health First
A paralegal seminar that focuses on the “witness
expert” will be held on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 8 a.m.
to noon in the rotunda of the Maxwell C. King Center
for the Performing Arts in Melbourne. The King Center
is at 3865 N. Wickham Road. The guest speakers will
be Terri Stromatt of DNA Services of America Inc. and
Dr. Wayne Stein, a BCC professor of psychology. The
seminar is approved by the National Association of
Legal Assistants and attendees will receive three
continuing legal assistant education credits upon
completion of the seminar. The registration fee is $29,
which includes a full breakfast and materials. To
register, call 433–7500 or 433–5574. Online registration
is available at www.bcctraining.com.
Space Coast Jazz Society event
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The Space Coast Jazz Society will conduct a tribute
to Johnny Fitz at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11, at the
Cocoa Beach Country Club. The program will feature
the Johnny Fitz Quartet, with Fitz on bass, Dan
Wilborne on saxophone, Tom Hueston on guitar and
Charles Dickey on drums. The tribute emcee is jazz
broadcaster Jack Simpson. The fee is $5 for members
and $8 for nonmembers. Tickets will be available at the
door. Call 453–4191.
Honor America golf tournament
Honor America will conduct its 30th annual golf
tournament on Presidents Day, Monday, Feb. 19, at the
Harbor City Municipal Golf Course in Melbourne.
Check–in is at 6:30 a.m., with a shotgun start at 7:30.
Registration is required. The deadline is Feb. 12. The
fee is $60 per player (includes free continental breakfast
and lunch). For more information or to register, call
Honor America at 727–1776 or visit its office at 1601
Oak St., in Melbourne.
Brace speaker at networking function
Jessica Brace of Affordable Graphics Solutions will
lead a discussion on why you need a Web site for your
business and what to do with it once you have one. The
meeting, which is free to the public, will be held on
Monday, Feb. 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the seventh–
floor conference room of the Crawford Science Tower, on
the campus of Florida Tech in Melbourne. It’s part of a
program called Networking for Women but the event is
open to men, too. Brace’s company services customers
worldwide. For the past seven years, her firm has
specialized in providing small businesses with personalized services for all their graphic–design needs for both
Web and print. RSVP to [email protected].
Stultz to address technology forum Feb. 14
Florida Tech’s National Center for Small Business
Information recently announced that Steve Stultz,
central services office director for the Brevard County
Board of County Commissioners, will speak at the
February Space Coast Townhall for Technologists
forum. The meeting, which is free to the public, will be
held on Wednesday, Feb. 14, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the
Crawford Science Tower on the campus of Florida Tech
in Melbourne. The goal of the Townhall is to provide a
network of support for area small businesses engaged in
the various technology–related fields, while helping to
develop working relationships with local prime contractors and government agencies. To RSVP for this event,
contact Christopher Durie at 674–7001 or by e–mail at
[email protected]. For more information on this or other
free NCSBI offerings, visit www.ncsbi.fit.edu. The
center offers free training in government contracting,
business software and computer technology to both
small businesses and individuals.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
EVENTS
Administrative professionals to meet
The Central Brevard Chapter of the International
Association of Administrative Professionals invites
administrative–support personnel to its meeting on
Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the Courtyard by Marriott in Cocoa
Beach. The program begins at 5:30 p.m. Joanne Bunch,
of the IAAP Florida division, will speak on “Defining
Life’s Balance.” The hotel is at 3425 N. Atlantic Ave.
The function is open to the public. E–mail Debbie
Carter at [email protected] or call 426–3003.
Reservations can also be made at
iaapcentralbrevard.homestead.com. Regular chapter
meetings are the second Tuesday of each month.
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City Manager Reynal luncheon speaker
West Melbourne City Manager David Reynal will be
the guest speaker for the monthly luncheon of the West
Melbourne Business Association. The event is from
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 14, at
Piccadilly Cafeteria in the Melbourne Square Mall.
Reynal will highlight West Melbourne’s “recent changes
and future plans.” The WMBA meets the second
Wednesday of the month and supports West Melbourne
students through scholarships and the Police Athletic
League. Call Bill Santore at 298–9915 for more information.
FULL COLOR
Pollster David Johnson featured speaker
David Johnson, the CEO and founder of Strategic
Visions, will address the Florida Republican Women’s
Network of South Brevard at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb.
15, at the Eau Gallie Yacht in Indian Harbour Beach.
Johnson is a leading pollster, strategist and marketing
expert. He is a frequent commentator, appearing on
news channels like CNN and FOX. The lunch fee is $15.
Call 728–4424 or e–mail [email protected] for
reservations.
Non–Fiction Book Club to gather at B&N
The Non–Fiction Book Club will meet at Barnes &
Noble in West Melbourne at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb.
15. The store is at 1955 W. New Haven Ave. The club
features titles from current events and social sciences.
The Feb. 15 selection is “What Liberal Media?” The
book is authored by Eric Alterman. This event is free of
charge and open to the public. Call 726–8817 for more
information.
Swingtime Jazz Band to entertain
The Swingtime Jazz Band will present its “Sweetheart Ball” from 7 to 10 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 16, in the
Melbourne Auditorium, 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Doors
will open at 6:30 p.m. The group plays swing music from
the Big Band Era that is popular with all generations.
The band features 17 musicians, two vocalists and a
leader. In addition to swing music, the band plays
contemporary jazz, rock, cha–cha and other selections.
Admission is $5 when tickets are purchased in advance
at radio Station WMMB, Marion Music and Honor
America, all in Melbourne. Tickets are $6 at the door.
Call 724–0555 for more details.
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Clay Stephens Interiors Tent Sale Feb. 17
Clay Stephens Interiors in Cocoa Beach will conduct
its seventh annual Tent Sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on
Saturday, Feb. 17. Clay Stephens Interiors is one of the
top interior design stores in the region and carries many
one–of–a–kind items from around the world. Furniture,
accessories and other items will be for sale, up to 60
percent off. All items in the showroom (except the work
of local artists) will be discounted by 15 percent. Clay
Stephens Interiors is at 245 W. Cocoa Beach Causeway.
The phone number is 868–2529.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
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FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
DIGEST
Cardiologist Enrique Polanco
joins MIMA team in Melbourne
Dr. Enrique Polanco, a board–certified physician
with specialized experience in cardiac care, has joined
MIMA. Dr. Polanco joins MIMA’s team of cardiologists
at the Melbourne office, 200 E. Sheridan Road.
The cardiac team includes Drs. Leonard Grecul,
Steven Karas, Richard Nadolny, James Ronaldson,
Norberto Schechtmann, Thomas Swain and Ralph
Vicari.
“MIMA is very fortunate to have Dr. Polanco join our
talented team of medical professionals,” said Dr. Joseph
McClure, medical director for the group. “I feel patients
will respond to his caring manner, as well as know they
are in extremely capable hands as he works to diagnose,
treat and prevent a variety of heart–related diseases.”
Educated at Pontificia Universidad Catolica Madre y
Maestra in Santiago, Dominical Republic, Dr. Polanco
performed his internal medicine residency with Wayne
State University at Detroit Medical Center. He followed
with a general cardiology fellowship at Loyola University Medical Center in Maywood, Ill.
Dr. Polanco holds numerous certifications including,
American Board of Cardiovascular Disease, adult
comprehensive echocardiography from the National
Board of Echocardiography, and diplomate of the
Nuclear Cardiology Boards, American Board of Internal
Medicine.
“I look forward to bringing my experience in the care
of cardiac patients to serve the Brevard County community,” said Dr. Polanco. “I am truly passionate about
medicine and am always striving to provide the most
recent information and research to ensure the best
possible diagnosis and care for my patients.”
Throughout his career he has held various faculty
appointments including as assistant professor of
medicine in the division of cardiology at Loyola University Medical Center, and assistant professor at the
Physiological Sciences Department of Medicine at
Pontificia Universidad Catolica Madre y Maestra.
He has received many honors for his work, including
an award for the excellence in clinical judgment from
the Department of Medicine at Wayne State University
in 2001, as well as the distinguished service award from
Non–invasive Laboratories at Loyola University
Medical Center in 2006.
He holds professional memberships with the
American Society of Echocardiography, the American
Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology.
Polanco resides in Melbourne with his wife and two
children. Appointments may be made by calling 725–
4500, extension 884.
MIMA is an independent, physician–owned multi–
specialty group.
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Realtors honor CECU’s Susan Davis
The Space Coast Association of Realtors has selected
Susan Davis of Community Educators Credit Union as
its 2007 Affiliate Member of the Year. “Susan never
passes on an opportunity to help,” said Maureen Finch,
SCAR director of education. “As a member of the
banking community, her company has sponsored
several educational programs, was a sponsor for our
annual golf tournament for Special Olympics, sponsored
a luncheon for Congressman Weldon, and she always
gives generously of her time for our yearly auction.”
Davis is active in the Cocoa Beach Area Chamber of
Commerce and raised money for the March of Dimes
and United Way.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
BUSINESS
Data Doctors, with stores in Indian Harbour Beach and Suntree,
ready to help people with questions about Microsoft’s new Vista
operating system; daughter joins the growing family–run business
By Ken Datzman
INDIAN HARBOUR BEACH — Windows Vista and the 2007 release of Office
lead an array of new Microsoft Corp. products hitting the marketplace that will spur
the next leap forward in computing.
The operating systems are used on personal computers, including home and
business desktops. Microsoft, calling the introductions “game–changing” products,
expects to sell more than 200 million Vista units to consumers and businesses by the
end of next year.
“I think it’s going to be a very good thing for small businesses, consumers and the
industry as a whole,” said Jim Howes, president of Central Florida Data Doctors, with
stores in the Indian Harbour Place shopping center and on North Wickham Road in
Suntree. “Yes, there will be some start–up issues but I believe it’s going to provide
needed improvements to the Windows operating system and a little pizazz. I think
everyone was pretty happy when Windows XP came out because it was a big improvement over Windows 98 and Windows ME. When we look back on Vista, I think we’ll
have the same positive feeling, once we get over a few growing pains.”
Data Doctors, a national franchise, specializes in computer repair, sales of custom
computers, networking and data recovery. Based in Tempe, Ariz., the fast–growing
company caters to individuals, households and small businesses. The company has
been preparing for Microsoft’s roll out of Vista. “The Data Doctors franchise,” says
Howes, who introduced the brand in Brevard one year ago, “has lived through several
Microsoft product launches — Windows XP, Windows 98 and Windows ME. Now
we’re helping people with Vista.”
Howes himself experienced a number of Windows launches over the years when he
was an executive with Lexmark International’s printer division in Lexington, Ky.
Businesses that sell personal computers are hoping to get a lift from the new
products. So, should you run out today and buy the software or a new computer with
Vista 2007? Will people who don’t have Vista software have trouble opening documents? The new products are generating questions. Howes’ stores are offering a free
service to consumers. They can bring their computer to the store and Data Doctors
will determine if it’s Vista–ready, and will answer their questions about the new
system.
“There are at least five versions of Vista. The Vista Home Basic version will run
fairly well on most computers that have been bought in the last two to three years.
The more top–of–the–line Vista versions — Home Premium and Ultimate — will
require a fairly sophisticated computer with a good amount of horsepower, a lot of
memory, a good video card and a good processor,” said Howes, a University of Florida
engineering graduate who holds an M.B.A. from the University of Kentucky.
The Home Premium and Ultimate versions have a new user interface called Aero,
he said. “Aero has the look of being three–dimensional. For example, if you have
multiple windows open on the screen, the one that you are working on will look
nearest to you; the other ones will look like they are farther away. Once you switch
from one window to the another, they’ll change positions and the window in the back
will move through the window in the front.”
The Business and Ultimate versions of Vista have the ability to monitor a
computer’s hard drive, where all the data is stored, he said. “It will alert you if there
are indications your hard drive is going bad.” Howes adds, “A lot of people come into
our stores with failed hard drives. I think it has to do with the salt air, humidity and
lightning strikes in our area. We see a higher failure rate of hard drives and power
supplies than most regions of the nation.”
The Vista system also makes smart use of dual–core processors. “The dual–core
concept is the most recent innovation in the world of computer processors. It allows
you to do multiple things simultaneously. Let’s say you are burning a DVD and at the
same time running a spreadsheet or browsing the Internet, the dual–core processor
will work really well. And with Vista it appears to work even better that it did with
Windows XP.”
Data Doctors in Brevard is a family–run business. Dana Howes, Jim’s wife, is vice
president and chief financial officer. Their daughter, Ashlie, joined the business last
week, moving to Brevard from Orlando. Donald Kincannon, Ashlie’s fiancée, made the
move, too, and is working at Data Doctors’ Suntree store. Ashlie has a degree in
digital art from the University of Florida. In Orlando, she designed textbooks for a
company. Now, she is being groomed to open the next Central Florida Data Doctors
Small–business operator Jim Howes introduced the Data Doctors franchise in Brevard one year ago.
The concept has been well received by individuals, households and small businesses, he says. Data
Doctors specializes in computer repair, sales of custom computers, networking and data recovery.
store for the family. The Howes’ franchise territory includes east Orlando, and from
Titusville to Vero Beach. Jim Howes says he plans to open “at least three more stores”
in his Central Florida region. He’s currently leaning toward Orlando for his third
store.
In Brevard, the Data Doctors concept has been well received by consumers and
small businesses, he said. In fact, the Indian Harbour Beach store was No. 16 in sales
for December, out of more than 70 Data Doctors locations around the nation. “We’re
excited about it. The Suntree store is not far behind the beach store. We have two
excellent locations. They are right in the sweet spots of where we want to be in the
county,” Jim Howes said.
Technology–based business models often center on high volumes and low margins,
where numbers are more important than people. But the Data Doctors’ business
model puts the customer as the centerpiece. “People are everything at Data Doctors.
Our associates have to possess the technical skills but they also must have excellent
people skills and be able to communicate effectively with customers. I attribute a lot of
our success to the team I have been able to hire.”
The company has six full–time employees, excluding the owners. Jim Howes says
he’s very selective in his hiring. He interviewed 44 people to fill three positions.
Like many small–business owners in Brevard, Jim Howes thinks 2007 is going to
be another solid year for his stores. “Business has been very good the last couple of
months because of the winter residents. After March, we step up our focus on the
small–business market. Later in the year, we’ll be rolling out some new products and
offerings that we think will benefit small firms.”
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
BUSINESS
BSO’s very popular Space Coast Wine and Beer Festival is a long–
running success, 16th edition set for Feb. 25 at the King Center in
Melbourne, more than 200 wines — pops concert part of festivities
By Ken Datzman
Some fund–raising events take off from their inception and continue to build
momentum and traffic in the marketplace, while others fizzle after just a couple of
editions. To repeatedly attract attendees, sponsors and community support, a benefit
must have the right ingredients, like fine wines and delicious foods.
The annual Space Coast Wine and Beer Festival is an example of a fund–raiser
with staying power. A major benefit for the Brevard Symphony Orchestra, the festival
has evolved to become a classic in the region. It was a hit from the start 15 years ago.
“The first year we had perhaps 275 to 300 people attend the event (at a beach hotel),
which was a big deal then. It’s been a long–running success,” said community volunteer Darcia Jones Francey, who has chaired all 15 festivals for the BSO and is
spearheading the 16th, set for Sunday, Feb. 25, at the Maxwell C. King Center for the
Performing Arts in Melbourne.
BSO volunteers Polly Williams and Carol Reeve have been involved in every
festival, too. “It’s been a lot of fun, a lot of work, and very worthwhile for the symphony,” says Williams. “The festival is the one benefit we have every year and it’s
helped the symphony tremendously.” The event typically nets about $50,000 for the
BSO. “We are grateful to the community for their support. Without the community’s
backing, it wouldn’t work at all,” adds Williams.
“The money from the festival keeps our musicians playing and provides beautiful
music for the community,” says Jones Francey.
“We have one of the best symphonies in Central Florida, and we’re very proud of
it,” says businessman Harry Brandon of Brandon Properties in Melbourne, a BSO
board member.
Dr. Shirley Ericson, secretary of the BSO board, says she particularly enjoys the
works of Brahms. “I just love classical music and Brahms is my favorite composer. I
always tell Chris (Confessore, BSO music director/principal conductor) to include
some Brahms every season. It can be anything he chooses but at least one piece of
Brahms. If you don’t have Brahms in the season, it’s like cooking oatmeal without
salt. It just never tastes right.”
She was a music teacher in Arizona and Washington, before moving to Florida. Dr.
Ericson taught education courses at the University of Central Florida. She has been
involved with the BSO since 1989, when she started as president of the BSO North
Guild. In its effort to involve the entire county in the BSO mission, the organization
operates three support guilds — in North, Central and South Brevard. The community has long embraced the BSO, especially many small businesses in Brevard. Sixty–
percent of the BSO’s funding comes from the community, by the way of various
sponsorships and the funds raised from the Space Coast Wine and Beer Festival.
Volunteers play an important role in driving the BSO’s success. Reeve says she
cherishes her involvement with the BSO, which goes back 20 years. “It’s been a
wonderful experience with a great organization. We have so many dedicated volunteers. As far as the festival goes, decorating the facility every year is a significant
undertaking.” Carol Reeve has been responsible for “making the festival a beautiful
event every year,” said Williams.
Polly Atkinson, president of the BSO Central Guild, says the festival committee is
a well–oiled machine. “It runs so smoothly; everybody knows what to do.”
Twenty–one members of the BSO South Guild are volunteering for this year’s
festival, says Mary Fox, who is president of that guild. “It’s one of ways the South
Guild supports the symphony. We have our own fund–raisers as well. To put on an
event of this size takes a large number of people.”
“No matter how big a challenge it is, we always look forward to this event,” says
Ann–Marie Brush, BSO North Guild president.
Since 1991, the festival has been held at a number of area hotels. Last year the
venue shifted to the King Center from the Melbourne Civic Auditorium. “The event
keeps expanding and growing, so we’re always making changes in order to accommodate the growth,” says Fran Delisle, who has been executive director of the BSO since
1993.
She expects from 700 to 800 people to attend the 16th Space Coast Wine and Beer
Festival, which gets under way at 5:30 p.m., with a 45–minute BSO pops concert.
“Last year’s festival at the King Center was outstanding. We feel it is very important
that people associate the BSO with the King Center. This is where we live. We are the
orchestra–in–residence, so we would like to have as many events at the King Center
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
The BSO’s Space Coast Wine and Beer Festival is Feb. 25 at the King Center. More than 200 wines
will be available to taste, donated by distributors in Central Florida. BSO volunteers are busy getting
the King Center ready for the big evening. In front, from left: Shirley Baccus, Polly Atkinson, Darcia
Jones Francey (event chair), Carol Reeve, Polly Williams, Amelia Williams and Jackie Pantello. Back
row: Dan Holloway, Ann–Marie Brush, Jessica Auman, Tom Boyle, Harry Brandon, and Mary Fox.
as we possibly can.” The new venue positions the BSO festival for future growth with
its showcase event. “Comfortably,” says Delisle, “we can accommodate more than
1,000 people at the King Center.
For 2007, the festival has expanded to the King Center’s main stage, she said. “We
just opened up the space to give our attendees a little more room to enjoy all the wines
and sample the foods provided by the restaurants.”
Jones Francey says more than 200 wines will be donated by distributors in Central
Florida. “And all the food is donated by various restaurants and caterers in the
region.” The event is presented by Petty’s Meat Market in Melbourne and Suntree.
Tickets are $75 per person in advance and $80 at the door the day of the function.
They can be purchased at Petty’s, the King Center box office and the BSO office in the
Eau Gallie section of Melbourne. The King Center, on the Brevard Community
College campus, is at 3865 N. Wickham Road. To buy tickets online, visit
www.localwineevents.com. Festival sponsorships start at $250 (includes reserved
seating for two people at the pops concert).
In addition to the festival and concert, the BSO is hosting “A Symphony for the
Palate,” a private party for sponsors. It starts at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 25, in the
King Center’s Crown Room. Sponsorships to “A Symphony for the Palate” range from
$500 to $2,500. Benefits vary according to the dollar amount of the sponsorship. “The
party will feature high–end wines, great food and a wine auction,” says Jones
Francey. The private wine–tasting function will be held in the lobby following the
pops concert. There are two options for attending the private party in the Crown
Room. You can attend as a single ticket holder ($125) or as sponsor. Call 242–2024 to
inquire about tickets and sponsorships.
BBN
EVENTS
Renowned Cuban classical guitarist to perform
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The Henegar Center in downtown Melbourne will present renowned Cuban
classical guitarist Ruben Gonzalez on Friday, Feb. 16 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the
performance are $15. Gonzalez was born in the city of Holguin, Cuba, known for its
emphasis on quality music. He graduated from the Institute of Arts of Havana,
where he obtained his music degree with a specialization in guitar. In 1993, he was
invited by the National Conservatory of Music of Santo Domingo to give master
classes at that prestigious institution. He has performed with the symphony
orchestras of Santiago, Cuba, and Santo Domingo. The Feb. 16 program will include
works by Tarrega, Albeniz, Dyens, Domenicomi, Merlin, Barrios Mangore, Piazzolla
and Rojas. The Henegar Center is at 625 E. New Haven Ave. Tickets are available
at the Henegar Center box office during regular business hours, or by calling 723–
8698. Additional information is also available at www.henegar.org.
Décor East open house Feb. 17 in Melbourne
Décor East Asian Design Furniture, Antique and Gift Store in Melbourne will
host an open house from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17, to celebrate the
Chinese New Year. Décor East is at 1921 Alma Drive, which is one–quarter mile
east of I–95 on 192. The store will serve champagne, green tea and food to customers. Merchandise will be discounted, too.
Fla Tech
Wuesthoff Hospice to offer volunteer training
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Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice & Palliative Care will conduct training courses for
volunteers on Monday, Feb. 19, and Thursday, March 1, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at
Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice, 8060 Spyglass Hill Road, in Viera. The course is free of
charge and open to the public. Lunch will be provided for those who register.
Continuing–education credits are available for nurses and social workers who
complete the program. Hospice volunteers are needed to provide transportation,
make home and nursing–home visits, give bereavement support and perform other
services for hospice patients and their families. For more information and to register
for the course, contact the Wuesthoff Brevard Hospice at 253–2222, extension 4710.
Auditions for ‘The Hobbit’ scheduled
The Rising Stars Theatre will hold auditions for the children’s play “The Hobbit”
on Monday, Feb. 19, and Tuesday, Feb. 20, from 5 to 7 p.m. There are openings for
25 to 35 actors ages 10 to 17. “The Hobbit” is filled with characters of all types,
including a wizard, dwarves and a dragon. For more information, call 268–3711 or
visit www.titusvilleplayhouse.com.
Job fair Feb. 20 at Melbourne Auditorium
Florida Job Guide and the Melbourne–Palm Bay Area Chamber of Commerce
will conduct a job fair from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 20, at the Melbourne Civic
Auditorium. Visit www.fljobguide.com for more information. It is expected that some
thirty–five companies will be at the job fair. This is a general job fair. You can post
your resume at www.fljobguide.com. Exhibitor tables are available. The fee is $350
for Melbourne–Palm Bay Chamber members, $250 for nonprofit organizations and
$125 for small–business tables. For more details, contact Deborah Ballard at 724–
5400, extension 238, or deborah@melpb–chamber.org. Another contact is Vito
Verruso at 773–1454, or [email protected].
Melbourne Orchestra to present concert
The Melbourne Community Orchestra, an affiliate of the Space Coast Pops
Orchestra, will present a concert titled “Classics, and Then Some Harmonizing.” The
concert will be conducted at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, Feb. 21 and 22,
in the Melbourne Auditorium, 625 E. Hibiscus Blvd. The program includes a variety
of classics, including Mozart’s “Impresario Overture,” Gershwin’s “An American in
Paris Suite,” and the “Boston Pops March.” The Harbor City Harmonizers will open
the program following intermission. Admission is free and obtaining a ticket in
advance will ensure you a seat. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Call 952–9949 for information and location of ticket outlets. Visit mcofl.tripod.com for more information
regarding the orchestra, personnel and events.
Florida Tech Digital Showcase open to public
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Florida Tech’s fourth annual Digital Showcase is open to the public on Feb. 23,
with events from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The showcase begins in the Applied Computing
Center, on the second floor of the Evans Library, and wraps up at the Gleason
Center for the Performing Arts, on the Melbourne campus. The event is free of
charge. Workstations will be on display, featuring digital–graphics demonstrations
of projects, products and works of art. Apple Inc. will hold sessions at 11 a.m.–noon
and 1–2 p.m. to demonstrate new Macintosh hardware and software. Digital
Showcase sponsors include Florida Tech’s Instructional Technology Department and
Digital Domain, Apple Inc., the Full Sail School of Real World Education and the
Light Tribe. For more information, contact Nicole Hoier at 674–8119 or e–mail her
at hoier–[email protected].
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
EVENTS
Healthy Home Expo Feb. 23 in Cocoa
The Space Coast Association of Realtors will host a Healthy Home Expo from 10
a.m. to 2 p.m. on Feb. 23 at the Florida Solar Energy Center on the Brevard Community College campus in Cocoa. Experts from the community will share information on new recycling programs, native plants, energy–saving programs, environmental cleanup, building green and mitigating for hurricane safety.
Reception for Highwayman R.L. Lewis in Cocoa
As part of Black History Month, Brevard Community College will host a reception for Highwayman artist R.L. Lewis from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 23, at the
BCC Planetarium, 1515 Clearlake Road, in Cocoa. During the reception, attendees
will have the opportunity to see Lewis paint. There are currently 11 pieces of
original artwork created by the artist on exhibit in the Planetarium Gallery. Lewis
says he enjoys painting scenes such as landscapes. He started selling his artwork in
Brevard County in 1967. Today, his work is available around the state. For more
information, contact Lynne Brezina at the Brevard Cultural Alliance. Her number is
690–6817. The Planetarium number is 433–7372.
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Gary Bonds concert set for Cocoa Village
The Super Flea & Farmers Market will host a free concert at 7 p.m. on Friday,
Feb. 23, at the Space Coast Mardi Gras set for the Cocoa Village Riverfront
Amphitheatre. Headlining the concert is Gary “US” Bonds, best known for such hits
as “New Orleans” and “Quarter to Three.” Opening the concert will be Susan
Jerome, general manager of Super Flea, and Dan Ellis, Super Flea’s assistant
manager. They perform as “Reverend Danny and Sister Blues” and have opened for
national acts such as Charlie Daniels, KC & the Sunshine Band, and Bad Company.
On Saturday, Feb. 24, fans will have the opportunity to meet Gary Bonds at the
Super Flea & Farmers Market in Melbourne from 1 to 3 p.m. The market is located
at I–95 and West Eau Gallie Boulevard. Call 242–9124 for more information.
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Titusville Playhouse benefit ‘Night of the Stars’
like yours, so
The Titusville Follies is presenting “Night of the Stars” as a benefit for the
Titusville Playhouse. Performances will be held on Friday, Feb. 23, at 7:30 p.m., on
Saturday, Feb. 24, at 7:30 p.m., and on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 2 p.m. The event will
feature tributes to more than 50 “long–gone favorite performers.” They include
Clark Gable, Bing Crosby, Marilyn Monroe, Peggy Lee, Johnny Cash and Dean
Martin. The performers are all local talent. Penny Storm began the Titusville Follies
in 2000 as a creative outlet for members of La Cita Country Club. “We are branching
out to include more dramatic scenes and movie and TV dramas and comedies,” she
said. “This is a show filled with laughter and tears, and lots of memories.” Tickets
are $17 and $15. Call the box office at 268–1125.
come grow with
us as we expand our
commercial division.
From lines of credit
to ACH/Payroll to
Astronomy lecture Feb. 23 at Florida Tech
construction loans
Florida Tech’s Astronomy and Astrophysics Public Lecture Series will present
“Illuminating Dark Energy and Dark Matter with a SNAP (SuperNova Acceleration
Probe)” on Feb. 23 at 8 p.m. The presentation, free to the community, will be in the
F.W. Olin Engineering auditorium (room EC118) on the Melbourne campus. The
lecture will be given by Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi, assistant professor in Florida Tech’s
Department of Physics and Space Sciences, and will include audiovisuals. Dr.
Oluseyi’s chosen research areas include observational cosmology, technology
development, and the history of astronomy. He earned a doctoral degree from
Stanford University. “The ultimate goal of SNAP is to elucidate (explain) the nature
of the mysterious dark energy that is accelerating the universe’s expansion rate,” Dr.
Oluseyi said. There will be stargazing afterward, on the rooftop of the Olin Physical
Sciences Building, weather–permitting. The F.W. Olin Engineering Center is on
University Boulevard. For more information, visit www.fit.edu/aapls.
and merchant
services, we’ ve got
it all at CECU.
Give Jim
a call today at
321-637-3205.
Florida College Goal Sunday Feb. 25 in Cocoa
Students who hope to attend college will be given a clear path to federal cash
assistance during a free statewide event known as Florida College Goal Sunday. On
Feb. 25, financial experts will help college–bound students and their families
complete the free application for Federal Student Aid from 2 to 5 p.m. at Zion
Orthodox Primitive Baptist Church, 715 S. Fiske Blvd., in Cocoa. The FAFSA helps
students access billions in federal funds available for college. “Traditionally, low–
income and first generation students fall through the cracks in the financial aid
process because they’re intimidated by the forms and have not been exposed to the
financial aid process,” said Dr. Brenda Fettrow of Brevard Community College, site
coordinator for the event. “College Goal Sunday helps break the barriers that
prevent students from accessing funds they need to pursue higher education.”
Financial aid assistance will be available in English and Spanish. For more information, call 433–5690. For information in Spanish, call 433–5241. One scholarship
drawing will be held for students who attend the event. Additional information is
available at www.fldoe.org/collegegoalsunday.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
321-690-2328 • www.cecu.org
BBN
DIGEST
Custom BCC program caters
to Harris with on–site training
Chamber of Commerce
pick up BBN
02-05-07
page 9
Brevard Community College has partnered with the
Harris Government Communications Systems Division
to offer Harris employees a certificate in applied
technologies through customized, on–site training.
The program was designed to offer Harris employees a sequence of courses that will lead to a certificate
in applied technologies upon completion, and, ultimately, an associate of science in applied technologies
should the student choose to continue their education.
In addition, the program will assist in the students’
career growth and professional development.
Thirty–four Harris assemblers, engineering
technicians, test technicians, and quality inspectors
began the pilot program in October and are slated to
receive a certificate in summer 2008. Should the
students wish to continue their education, they will
take the necessary college placement tests and
complete 15 hours of general–education courses in
addition to the specialized technical courses.
Students participate in a set curriculum of specialized courses such as Introduction to Electronics, Fiber
Optics, Aerospace Safety and Quality, and Composite
Fabrication and Repair. The courses are presented two
nights per week in the cafeteria at Harris Corp. in
Palm Bay.
For more information, or to inquire about designing
another customized program, call 433–7410.
Titusville Chamber installs its board
The Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce recently
installed its 2007 board of directors at Royal Oak
Country Club in Titusville. Scott Johnson of McCotter
Ford–Mercury was installed as chairman. New board
members are: Janet Cathy, Riverside Bank; Cherise
Czaban, Mary Kay Cosmetics; Dr. Dayne Deeds,
Living Well Chiropractic; Natalie Sellers, Parrish
Medical Center; Amber Whitaker, Simple Home
Lending; and Melvin “Mel” Williams, Titusville Police
Department. Returning board members: Terri
Burdine, RSM McGladrey; Pennie Butcher, Chrome
Electric Inc.; John Conrad, Savings Safari; Kim Jones,
Nationwide Insurance; Micah Loyd, Gene Loyd
Contracting Co. Inc.; and Donna Shepherd, American
Police Hall of Fame. Appointed members to the board:
Kim Carpenter, Hampton Inn; Stan Eads, Eads
Insurance and Investments; Bart Gaetjens, Florida
Power and Light; and Cameron Harris, McCotter
Ford–Mercury.
Browning’s Pharmacy & Health Care
Home Medical Equipment and Supplies
Respiratory Equipment and Supplies
•
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We specialize in finding what you need
•
Sara Mayer receives Greek Adviser Award
•
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The Phi Sigma Sigma International Sorority has
presented the Outstanding Greek Advisor Award to
Sara Mayer, Florida Tech’s assistant dean for Greeks
and Orientation. The honor is given annually to Greek
advisers who work to strengthen a Phi Sigma Sigma
chapter. Mayer was one of four advisers chosen from
115 chapters across the U.S. and Canada. Florida
Tech’s Iota Eta chapter nominated Mayer for her
support. A resident of Melbourne Beach, Meyer has
assisted with such chapter projects as recruitment,
officer selection and transitions. She guided the
chapter to creating a constitution, policies and bylaws,
and led sisterhood retreats and leadership programs.
“Her belief in the development of this chapter helped
create the legacy of a new sorority at Florida Tech. We
could not have become the chapter we are today
without her support and guidance,” said Brittany
Hyde, former Phi Sigma Sigma chapter president.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
DIGEST
Verizon Wireless launches
broadband network in area
CAPE CANAVERAL — Verizon Wireless has
launched its high–speed wireless BroadbandAccesssm
network in Cape Canaveral to provide the latest
wireless technologies and services to NASA scientists at
Kennedy Space Center, as well as to area residents and
businesses.
Verizon Wireless engineers recently completed work
on network transmission sites. The high–speed network
was launched in other areas along the Space Coast late
in 2006. The advanced services also are available in
Orlando and other major markets across the state.
The new network allows customers to utilize the
latest high–speed productivity and entertainment
applications and services on their phones, laptop
computers and other wireless devices. This wireless
broadband experience is made possible by the Verizon
Wireless Evolution–Data Optimized (EV–DO) technology, with typical connection speeds of 400–700 kilobits
per second (kbps).
The expansion is part of an ongoing network investment by Verizon Wireless that has totaled more than $1
billion in the state and $30 billion nationally over the
past six years.
In addition to allowing advanced applications such as
BroadbandAccesssm and V CAST, the network upgrade
in the Space Coast area further strengthens the Verizon
Wireless network for everyday voice calls and in the
event of emergencies.
“On the Space Coast you just might be a rocket
scientist, but anybody can see the benefits of strength
and reliability in a wireless network,” said Frank Wise,
Florida region network director. “We’re investing
heavily to make sure this key region has access to the
most modern wireless technologies, such as
BroadbandAccesssm and V CAST.”
BroadbandAccesssm allows customers to connect
wirelessly to the Internet, download e–mail and
applications, and log into their corporate servers via
their laptop at broadband speeds. The technology
provides mobile workers full access, productivity and
security, just as if they were at their desks and attached
via a high–speed wired connection, “but with the
freedom of true mobility,” he said.
The Verizon Wireless V CAST service gives customers access to short video content, downloadable music,
and cutting–edge 3D games on their mobile phones.
Sunrise Bank
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01-15-07
page 14
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5675 N. Atlantic Avenue, Suite 118 z Cocoa Beach, FL 32931
Phone (321) 784-8333 z Fax: (321) 784-8005 z Website: www.sunrisebank.com
is pleased to announce
the opening of our 138th office
Now Serving Melbourne, Florida
The Laughlin, McCarthy, Potter Wealth Management Group
Reedy named director of FSEC’s PV division
Robert Reedy, manager of transmission line design
with the Georgia Transmission Corp., has been named
director of the photovoltaics division at the University of
Central Florida’s Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC)
in Cocoa. He brings more than 20 years experience in
renewable energy to his new job, including an administrative position with the Lakeland Department of
Electric and Water Utilities. Reedy has worked closely
with FSEC on many programs and activities over the
years, especially during his 12 years with Lakeland
Electric as director of its engineering and operations
group and manager of wholesale and renewable energy
businesses. Among his achievements there were setting
up a utility–sponsored solar water–heating program.
Reedy received bachelor’s and master’s degrees in
electrical engineering from Auburn University. He holds
an M.B.A. degree from Florida Southern. The FSEC is
the largest and most active state–supported energy
research center in the country. For more information,
visit www.fsec.ucf.edu or call 638–1015.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
Dennis W. Laughlin
Stiefel Nicolaus
First Vice President/Investments
Brian W. Laughlin, CFP
pick up BBN
Vice President/Investments
02-05-07 E. Brendan McCarthy
page 18 Vice President/Investments
®
Jim T. Potter
First Vice President/Investments
Branch Manager
(321) 757-7209 • (888) 767-7565
6767 North Wickham Road, Suite 304 • Melbourne, Florida 32940
Member SIPC
Investment Services Since 1890
Member NYSE
BBN
DIGEST
Hurricane–resistant homes being built at Coral Key
Brevard Achievement
Center
new ad emailed
Mark Petroni, president of Aavanti Building and Development of Melbourne, has
begun construction at Coral Key, a private, gated enclave containing 32 estate–size
home sites. All homes in Coral Key will have Key West–style architecture and contain
high–end features.
Petroni says the hurricane–resistant homes at Coral Key have a number of major
components: steel reinforced concrete–block construction, metal roofs (rated for 140
mph winds), concrete siding to prevent water penetration, Bahamas and Colonial
storm shutters, natural gas generators, and a 10–year mold–prevention warranty.
“After living through the 2004 hurricane season, I became concerned with not only
getting through a storm with little to no damage, but also being comfortable after the
storm passed, with power outages lasting weeks in some cases,” Petroni said. “A 15
KW natural gas generator standard in each home allows one to maintain their
comfort level even after a natural disaster.”
Six floor plans are available at Coral Key. Home features include three–car
garages, 40–foot flat–screen TVs, summer kitchens and brick paver driveways. Coral
Key is on the south side of Malabar Road, about 1.4 miles west of Interstate 95. For
more information, contact Patti Erario at 956–6371.
Chinese calligraphy and brush–painting class
Décor East Asian Design Furniture in Melbourne offers a Chinese calligraphy and
brush–painting class from 2 to 3:30 p.m. every Tuesday, through April. The fee is $20
per month. Seating is limited. The store is at 1921 Alma Drive, which is one–quarter
mile east of I–95 on 192. Call 953–3717 to register.
Fast–Cat
CPR Radio
pick up BBN
2-05-07
page 19
Continued from page 1
of either 40 or 80 gigabytes. Its real value lies in the software, which was developed at
Carnegie Mellon University.
It allows field superintendents to navigate from one set of drawings to another, for
instance from an electrical drawing to one that shows a building’s plumbing. The
superintendent can use a stylus to create mark up drawings on the Fast–Cat’s 9–inch
screen. The device also sports a wireless card that allows workers to update drawings
via e–mail, as well as to request information from other members of the project team.
Steeb’s development of the Fast–Cat was funded in part by the Pittsburgh Infrastructure Technology Alliance, a partnership between CMU and Lehigh University
that provides seed funding for projects. The Alliance’s money was used for research “to
determine which ways might be the most effective to support somebody working with
drawings,” said James Garrett Jr., professor and head of civil and environmental
engineering at CMU who helped to develop the software.
Given the device’s intended market, a typewriter keyboard–based interface was
never an option. First, because construction workers are not noted for their clerical
skills. Second, because on a construction site, a keyboard would invite dust and grime
to lodge between the keys.
“We were looking at the possibility of speech interaction, but soon got dissuaded
from that,” Garrett said,
The prototype for the Fast–Cat was completed in the spring of 2004, and Steeb
began to present it to potential users, including a construction crew at Carnegie
Mellon — a presentation that initially did not go well.
“This one guy was reading a newspaper while I was doing the presentation. Finally
I just gave up and said, ‘Here,’ and gave it to him, to let him play with it,” Steeb said.
“Five minutes later, he’s going from one drawing to the next and he’s marking things
up, and he says, ‘How can I get one of these?’ That’s when I knew we had made it easy
enough.”
Making it easy enough to use was key to the product’s development, because
building construction is a more information–hungry process than most people realize,
Steeb pointed out.
“The average project has 800,000 lines of information,” he said. And it all has to be
correct, because “a building is done once.”
“You have 3,000 parts from 2,000 manufacturers, being used by a group of people
who never worked together before and will never work together again.”
In such an environment, lost or inaccurate information becomes expensive quickly;
for instance, when workers installing the heating and ventilation system discover that
a wall is not where they expected it to be.
The Fast–Cat is just coming to market, so its full impact on the construction
industry remains to be seen. But just last week, Innovation Works, the regional
consortium that makes investments of state funds in technology start–ups, expressed
confidence in the product by investing in Fast–Cat. Steeb said that he was not yet at
liberty to say how much, but added, “It was significant enough to make us really
happy.”
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
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The bank Brevard
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FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
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Sisson Meadows
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For your family’s living pleasure, Sisson Meadows is con1-15-07
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6
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Includes:
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Featuring two of Brevard County’s finest Award-winning
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&
321.255.7653
321.638.4889
Another Fine Community from SIMMS - MOLITOR
Dance for your health!
Presented by:
STREET
PARTY
Downtown Historic Titusville
Saturday • February 24 • 1 to 5 p.m.
Health is action!
And dancing is a fun way
to keep your entire family’s
hearts healthy and strong.
So bring the kids, Dads and
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Grandparents
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dancing shoes!
Special Performances
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02-05-07
You’ll enjoy an exciting day
page 17
filled with dancing, games,
music, heath screenings
and lots COLOR
of prizes.
FULL
Come meet the Radio Disney
AM 990 Fun Squad!
The Beu Sisters
2006 Finalist
American Idol Jr.
Katelyn Tarver
For more information, visit www.parrishmed.com or www.dayofdance.org.
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
BBN
SPECIAL FOCUS
Stifel Nicolaus
Continued from page 1
McCuaig. Zemlyak is also chief financial officer while
McCuaig is president.
The Melbourne office is the second Stifel Nicolaus
location in Florida. The firm plans to add three more
offices in Florida through acquisition. Stifel Financial
Corp. (NYSE: SF) recently announced that it has
entered into a definitive agreement with BankAtlantic
Bancorp Inc. to acquire its wholly owned subsidiary,
Ryan Beck Holdings Inc. Through its subsidiaries, Ryan
Beck operates 40 offices in 14 states. The transaction is
expected to close during the first quarter of 2007.
Stifel Nicolaus is the largest subsidiary of Stifel
Financial Corp. “Stifel Nicolaus has seen rapid growth
in the last eight or nine years,” said Potter, whose group
serves a lot of small–business owners in the county.
“They have grown from the Midwest to the East Coast
to the Southeast.” The firm has big plans for growing
the brand nationally, with the Sunshine State a prime
target for expansion.
More than a year ago, Stifel Financial also acquired
the Legg Mason Capital Markets business from
Citigroup Inc. The business includes investment
banking and fixed–income research. “They saw the
value in that piece of the organization,” Potter said.
The firm is named after its founders, Herman Stifel
and Henry Nicolaus. The name is pronounced “steeful
nicklaus.” The company operates 138 offices in 28 states
and the District of Columbia.
The Laughlin, McCarthy, Potter Wealth Management Group of Stifel Nicolaus has been busy contacting
clients. Certified Financial Planner Brian Laughlin says
the group is inviting 400 clients, whom they have
advised, to come aboard the new firm. They have gained
a client base three times that size but were not giving
advice to many of them. “We were operating more in a
custodian role with those accounts.” Brian Laughlin,
who has a bachelor’s degree in finance from Indiana
University of Pennsylvania, says his group will be
Interactive Realty
new ad
emailed
FEBRUARY 12, 2007
totally focused on relationships. “We have the capacity
to grow to around 600 clients, or about 150 clients per
partner, in the next year or two. That is a very manageable number.”
Potter says his office plans to add financial professionals in the future. The firm’s office is set up to handle
growth.
The four partners bring decades of experience to the
financial–planning table. “We complement each other
very well. The areas of interest and passion cover the
financial spectrum,” says the group’s portfolio manager,
Dennis Laughlin, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps
from 1969 to 1972 before attending Pennsylvania State
University.
He adds, “I rely very heavily on Stifel Nicolaus
research. We have been using it for years because it was
Legg Mason research. It’s a valuation–based methodology. We do a lot of modeling and asset allocation. It
comes down to which investment gives us the best risk–
reward ratio.”
Brendan McCarthy, a Florida State University
graduate and president of the Brevard Seminole Club,
heads up business development, among other responsibilities. Brian Laughlin conducts in–depth client
interviews and develops investment plans based on
goals and objectives. Potter specializes in retirement
planning with a focus on fixed–income investments,
annuities and insurance.
The team takes a comprehensive approach to
designing wealth–management plans for clients. Their
model centers on 13 issues: investments, insurance,
liabilities, qualified retirement plan/IRA, stock options,
business–succession planning, durable power of
attorney, gifting to children/descendents, lifetime
charitable gifting, titling of assets, executor/trustee,
distribution plan at death to spouse/descendents, and
charitable gifting at death. In addition to team members, Dennis Laughlin says the group taps the knowl-
Luce
next in series
edge of experts in various financial areas. “Estate
planning is an example. If someone needs to have an
estate plan drawn up we coordinate it with our attorneys.”
Says Potter: “The demand for retirement–planning
advice has never been higher than it is today. It’s a
complicated financial jungle and so much is at stake.
They can’t mess this up. It’s our job to help them. We
become fiduciaries.”
Brian Laughlin says the responsibility for retirement
saving in the U.S. has been largely shifting to individuals, as fewer corporations provide these packages to
their work force. “It’s becoming the individual’s responsibility to save for their retirement as companies
continue to cut back on pensions.”
Only 7 percent of working Americans are covered by
a core private pension, says one report.
Against the backdrop of a shifting economy, a study
by AARP examining the health and welfare of America’s
50–plus population shows an increased reliance on
Social Security, among other significant factors.
Today, the 401(k) is the leading private retirement
plan in America, according to the Investment Company
Institute in Washington, D.C. These plans offer a
powerful wealth–building tool that can provide significant income in retirement.
“It’s the vehicle that enables people to actually save,”
says Brian Laughlin, who works with corporate qualified plans. “The 401(k) makes it easy for you to save;
you sign a form and it happens. It comes out of your
paycheck and goes into your account. It’s automatic.”
Mutual funds account for roughly half of the assets in
401(k) plans, says the Investment Company Institute.
When asked about their investment approach over
the past year, 61 percent of millionaires said their
approach has changed very little, indicating they have a
strategy and they are sticking to it. The survey was
conducted by TNS, a market–information company.
Data Doctors
pick up BBN
2-05-76
page 12
Presented By:
Pancake
Breakfast 7am
Food Midway
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CèRcj
4]fS
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Artist &
Crafter Exhibits
9RcS`c7VUVcR]
DRgZ_Xd
3R_\
Classic Car
Show
AR]^3Rj
CèRcj4]fS
Entertainment
CZgVcdZUV
?ReZ`_R]
3R_\
All Proceeds from this event benefit
Habitat for Humanity of Brevard County Inc.
Kid’s Korner
4YZT\WZ]2

February 12, 2007 - Brevard Business News

Transcription

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