September 01, 2008 - Brevard Business News
Transcription
September 01, 2008 - Brevard Business News
BBN Vol. 26 No. 35 Brevard September 1, 2008 Business News A Weekly Space Coast Business Magazine Topline Appliance grows in a competitive industry as sales soften nationally By Ken Datzman Nearly 40 years as a growing, independent appliance retailer in Brevard County is an achievement that stands tall in the small–business world. In today’s super–competitive retailing environment, national chain stores and home–improvement centers cover the landscape of just about every community. But well–managed family businesses thrive alongside them. A local example is Topline Appliance, a family owned and operated company that will mark its fourth full decade in the county in 2009. Swirling all around it, the Barnas family has come to embrace competition in a highly fragmented industry. “There are more than 37 different places to buy a new appliance in Brevard County,” said Chris Barnas, general manager of the Topline Appliance Superstore in West Melbourne, a business known for its selection of household appliances, with more than 55 brands displayed on the showroom floor. The brands include Viking, Sharp, Jenn–Air, Samsung, Electrolux, and Roper. The major product segments are kitchen, laundry, and household appliances. Topline sells everything from refrigerators to washers and dryers to outdoor grills. The company operates a commercial division, too, selling mainly refrigerators, freezers and laundry products. “We are a servicing dealer as well.” The Viking Range Corp. introduced professional, commercial–grade cooking appliances to the home in 1987, Barnas said. “Viking first came out with a hefty range for the home and expanded its line over the years. It’s quite a success story.” The company is based in Greenwood, Miss. Today, Viking’s upper–end appliances are sold through dealers in 80 countries. The household appliance business in the U.S. includes 10,000 stores with combined annual revenue of $14 billion, according to First Research Inc. No major companies dominate the market. The 50 Please see Topline Appliance, page 19 BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth Chris Barnas is general manager of the Topline Appliance Superstore next to Target on West New Haven Avenue in West Melbourne. His father started the family business in 1969 in Cocoa and later expanded to Merritt Island and Melbourne. Topline Appliance sales are up 5 percent in 2008, bucking a downward trend in Florida and across the nation. More than 50 brands are displayed at Topline’s Superstore, from Viking to Samsung. Some investment tips for today’s stock market By Carolyn Said Scripps Howard Service within different sectors, maybe different asset classes if you can tolerate the volatility,” said Gary Schlossberg, senior economist with Wells Capital Management, the investment–management arm of Wells Fargo. Hank Herrmann, CEO of Waddell & Reed, a mutual fund company in Kansas with $70 billion under management, said that now can be a time for some people to go bargain hunting in the stock market. “We’ve had about a 22 to 23 percent decline,” he said. “The average decline for a bear market is 28 percent. If you use that as a rule of thumb, you’ve got 5 percent more downside. It suggests that most of the damage is done.” Here are suggestions from investment Please see Stock Market, page 16 PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS, INC. Mattress + money = bad idea. With the economy in turmoil, stashing your cash under the bed or burying it in the backyard may feel like the safest bet. But experts say there are still investments that make sense. The most important tip is Investing 101: Think long term. Markets fluctuate every minute and they go through cyclical swings that can last many months. But over time, stock market investing always beats inflation. You have to be able to ride out the volatility. “Don’t panic,” said David Campbell, a principal at San Francisco’s Bingham, Osborne and Scarborough, which has $1.7 billion under management for high– net–worth individuals. “The smart money never panics; it always looks for opportunity.” He and other financial advisers said withdrawing investment funds in a downturn is often the worst strategy. “The problem with taking your money out of the market is we know at some point in time, based on historical data, this market will rally,” said Barry Taylor, portfolio manager at the same firm. “If you pull out of the market, you’re not going to be there when those losses are recouped.” Creating a diversified portfolio is one way to be ready to ride out financial storms. “It’s important to stay diversified — well balanced between stocks and bonds BBN DIGEST Print campaign for CPA firm tops 183 Addy Award entries Free business checking and free BB&T personal checking. "Business Checking" pick up BBN Because every good opportunity 7-21-08 deserves another. page 5 BB&T FREE BUSINESS AND PERSONAL CHECKING FREE When you sign up for BB&T Free business checking, you’ll get BB&T Free personal checking, too. BB&T Business OnLine ® OnLine Bill Payment Both with no monthly maintenance fees and no minimum balance requirements. And since you Business Check Card 150 Combined Items per Month $5,000 Cash Processing per Month BB&T Free Personal Checking can handle all of your checking with just one trip to the bank, you’ll have a lot more time to look for your next opportunity. Stop by one of our local financial centers, call 1-800-BANK BBT or visit BBT.com. BAN K I N G I N S U RANCE I NVE ST M E N T S Consistently ranked as one of the top Small Business–Friendly.* *By the U.S. Small Business Administration. Member FDIC. Only deposit products are FDIC insured. BBT.com ©2008 BB&T. Dependable, Careful, Professional Left Hand productions pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 14 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 2 Allied pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 14 PUT YOURSELF IN OUR PLACE OFFICE & RETAIL SPACE Woodlake/Sutton LOCATED IN PALM BAY ANDBBN MELBOURNE pick up 725-1240 8-25-08 For more information page 3 Hoyman Dobson’s 2007 print advertising campaign captured the coveted “Best of Show” at the 24th annual local Addy Awards, a competition that recognizes creative excellence in advertising. Developed by MTN, the campaign beat out a record 183 entries from 28 organizations. The series of unconventional ads urges clients to “get out there” and “enjoy life with the knowledge that Hoyman Dobson has the strategic ability, experience and integrity to handle their day–to–day financial concerns.” While Hoyman Dobson works through the complexities of tax planning, audits, business succession, estate planning, wealth planning and other crucial tasks — “the client’s life becomes simplified.” In addition, the campaign highlights commonalities between various personal hobbies and financial planning while demonstrating the connection between accountant and client. “We wanted a memorable way to convey the message that time and energy spent tending to financial affairs is time and energy not spent on hobbies or whatever it is clients like to do,” said Chas Hoyman, managing director. “At Hoyman Dobson, we want our clients out there, doing what they love. Let us, CPAs, focus on the numbers, figures and details, that’s what we do. And we will devote our time and knowledge to do it right.” The Addy Awards is sponsored by the Space Coast Advertising Federation, which is the American Advertising Federation’s District 4 chapter. SCAF is a nonprofit institution that “promotes professionalism, imagination and ethics in the industry.” Hoyman Dobson is located in Melbourne, with a branch office in Winter Park. For more information, call MTN’s Jenna Bernardo at 779–1010 or [email protected]. Prevent! of Brevard hosts event in Orlando The Prevent! of Brevard Board of Directors recently hosted a Kick–off Dinner and Retreat at the Rosen Shingle Creek Golf Resort in Orlando. The keynote speaker for the event was Howard Lance, chairman and CEO of Harris Corp. Lance’s speech was titled “Managing in Turbulent Times.” He addressed trends in funding, how to keep your “organization relevant during turbulent times and board leadership.” Mary Nickle, Prevent! of Brevard board chair, outlined the organization’s goals and objectives for the coming year. Among those attending the dinner included: Christine Lance, Jeff, Austin and Jordan Nickle, Dick and Gail Beagley, Bob and Sharon Leichtenberg, John and Darcia Francey, Larry and Beth McIntyre, Ann Bettin, Roger and Marilyn Dobson, Dr. Michael Kaliszeski, Paul and Valerie Drinkwater, Martha Scholz, Scott and Joan Sorensen, Jim, Susan and Kaitlyn Weibert, Mason and Mary Williams, Seante Williams, Ralph and Susan Perers, Kay Heimmer, Terrance James, Marie Gonzales, Kathy Hooper, James Wesley and Jim Mullaney. Board members of Prevent! are: Bjornar Hermansen, Debbie Kellogg, Joan Madden, William Mazyck, Tom Daley, Ruthann Genoni, Sen. Mike Haridopolos, Jason Steele, Katheryn Theisen, James Ford, Judge Jack Griesbaum, Paul Gutierrez and Dr. Daniel Hammond. Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN DIGEST New Brevard law firm uses a flat–fee pricing structure INDIALANTIC — Billing by the hour is standard practice in the legal profession, but Brevard’s newest law firm is making legal costs more “transparent and affordable” with flat–fee pricing. “We have put together five aggressive and well– respected attorneys to address the gap in legal representation that exists in Brevard,” said Todd Deratany, a founding partner of Deratany, Goldfarb, Riehl, Reid & Bull. “We don’t want clients to worry more about the clock than their case.” A flat–fee rate structure “doesn’t mean clients receive substandard representation,” he adds. “In fact, the firm’s team includes “lawyers who are among the most experienced and qualified in Brevard County, including the area’s only Harvard–trained attorney in private practice and the former deputy chief of staff to President George W. Bush when he was governor of Texas.” Each of the firm’s five attorneys specializes in a different area of law, providing Brevard County residents “with one place to turn for almost any common legal matter,” Deratany said. A former police officer and public defender, Deratany says he has the “largest criminal defense practice in Brevard” with nearly 300 active cases. Brooke Deratany Goldfarb, who graduated from Harvard Law School, specializes in business, corporate and collaborative family law. Goldfarb, who speaks Spanish, French and Portuguese, practiced law in Miami and Washington, D.C., before returning to Brevard. Richard Riehl is the former deputy chief of staff to President George Bush when he was governor of Texas. Admitted to the Bar in Florida and Texas, Riehl is an experienced civil litigator. Recently, as banks have stepped up foreclosures, Riehl has “helped homeowners keep their property.” A former assistant state’s attorney, Shawn Reid is “well–regarded for his handling of dependency and divorce cases.” Reid will continue to focus on paternity, divorce, custody and other family law matters. Jonathan Bull specializes in major felony and DUI defense. Bull is one of the few attorneys in Brevard County who’s “certified to try death–penalty cases.” He is accepting new clients in Indian River, Osceola, Seminole, Orange and Volusia counties. We Make House Calls... Designers West pick up BBN Whether you are 7-14-08 building a new house page 7 or remodeling your existing home FULL COLOR Designers West Interiors can help with the selection of all your finishes and furnishings. Our exceptional design team can provide everything from space planning to furniture selection and installation. Call today for an appointment, at your place or ours. Chaney joins Nana’s House board Glen Chaney of Hayworth, Chaney & Thomas, P.A., Attorneys at Law, has joined the board of directors of Nana’s Children’s Home Inc., doing business as Nana’s House. Chaney is working on the organization’s new policy, procedures, and contracts, said Kim Frodge, president. “We are proud to have such a professional, caring person on our team. Nana’s House provides a safe, loving home for neglected, abused, needy or abandoned children in our community.” Nana’s House is a 501c(3) organization. “We are all volunteers working to help break the cycle of child abuse and neglect,” Frodge said. The volunteer committee meets every Thursday at 7 p.m. at Calvary Chapel on Minton Road in West Melbourne. For more information, visit www.nanaschildrenshome.com, or call Frodge at 266–3829. SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 733 North Drive Suite A Melbourne 321-255-2904 Monday thru Friday 9:00 to 5:00 www.designerswest.com Liz Harris, A.S.I.D. Lic. #0001280 IB0000645 IB0000646 Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 3 BBN EDITORIAL UF helps utility firms assess impact of wind on power lines By Patricia Casey To find ways to cost–effectively reduce the number of blackouts that historically accompany tropical storm or hurricane landfalls, University of Florida researchers are engaged in a major collaboration with Florida’s utility companies. The Hurricane Hardening Project is examining how hurricane winds affect both underground and overhead power lines. The project is also seeking the best ways to minimize tree–related outages and other potential threats to electric infrastructure in an effort to speed the restoration process in the aftermath of storms. “Preparing for storms requires cooperation from many groups and organizations,” said Matthew Carter II, chairman of the Florida Public Service Commission, which initiated the project. “We are pleased that the University of Florida is fostering cooperation by working with Florida’s utilities on research to strengthen the state’s electrical grid.” Researchers and utilities are studying the impacts of moving lines underground and also examining the possibility of strengthening existing overhead systems as a cheaper alternative, said Mark Jamison, director of UF’s Public Utility Research Center, which is coordinating the hurricane hardening effort. BBN Brevard Business News 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D West Melbourne, FL 32904 (321) 951-7777 fax (321) 951-4444 (email) [email protected] PUBLISHER Adrienne B. Roth EDITOR Ken Datzman OFFICE MANAGER Frank Schiffmann This innovative research has resulted in an experimental computer model that may be helpful in assessing the costs and benefits of burying power lines. “People need to know the costs and benefits to decide whether it’s worth moving lines underground,” Jamison said. “Once we have this information, customers, policymakers and utility companies can make sound choices.” Researchers have also examined four cases in Florida where utilities have converted overhead lines to underground. Their main conclusion: Moving existing overhead lines underground is costly and usually not justified solely by the economic benefits but rather by other benefits that are difficult to quantify such as aesthetics. That said, burying utility lines in some communities may have advantages, especially in the case of new construction, when underground lines can be included in the development’s planning process. People often view underground power lines as a solution to storm–caused outages. But they are not the cure–all they appear to be, Jamison said. Underground facilities are more prone to damage from flooding, storm surge and erosion, which can lead to increased costs and repair times, he said. To obtain more detailed information on the damage hurricane winds cause to overhead lines, project partners have installed 50 wind observation stations on existing or specialized utility poles along the coast of Florida. Instruments on each station collect wind speed, wind direction, barometric pressure and other data. Kurt Gurley, an associate professor of civil and coastal engineering, has tested the wind stations using the UF hurricane simulator to ensure their electronics can withstand hurricane force winds and driving rain. He will also help interpret the data supplied by each station. “The wind monitoring network in Florida will provide the detailed ground–level hurricane wind behavior that is badly needed by engineers working to better understand the ways that the power distribution infrastructure fails,” Gurley said. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and utility companies will receive this data from the stations in real–time, and NOAA will use the data to create wind field maps. Once the hurricane passes, utilities will mobilize teams of first–responders to assess where and how the electric system failed. Using the NOAA wind maps, they will match wind speeds with damages on the ground. This “forensic data” will then be analyzed to determine which hardening strategies work best. “If the power distribution system failed, we will be better able to analyze the damage and determine why the damage occurred,” Gurley said. As part of the Hurricane Hardening Project, utility companies are also studying ways to improve their vegetation management programs. They maintain a regular schedule of trimming to keep lines clear and routinely monitor critical distribution facilities. Researchers and utilities in this project are partnering with WeatherFlow, a company that develops, manages and installs wind measuring devices. Quanta Technologies conducted the research on underground lines and developed the computer model. School of Psychology to bestow 15 doctorates Florida Tech’s School of Psychology will graduate 15 students with doctor of psychology degrees on Sept. 6. Victoria Ingram, the School’s Alumna of the Year recipient, will give the commencement address in the university’s Gleason Performing Arts Center at 11 a.m. Dr. Ingram, a 1997 graduate of Florida Tech’s Clinical Psychology Psy.D. program, is a clinical neuropsychologist in the Department of Behavioral Health of Womack Army Medical Center. When she served 10 years as an active duty army clinical psychologist, she was the program director of the Walter Reed Army Medical Center Clinical Psychology Internship Program. Most recently, Dr. Ingram served as the lead researcher on traumatic brain injury and post traumatic stress disorder. In 2006 she was awarded the American Psychological Association’s highest honor, a Presidential Citation. The 2008 Psy.D. graduates are Drs.: Heather Allen–Wilder, Christine Michelle Cooper, Thomas Trent DeVore, Edan Andrew Critchfield, Martha Attwood Fernandez, Timothy Donald Fortney, Amanda Sue Grossenbacher, Justin Conrad Koenitzer, Kelsey Leigh McCoy, Joy Amanda Mobley, Scott William Muhs, Michelle Louise Prell, Krista Puente Trefz, Amy Teresa Wolf and Sherri Michelle Yoder. FJQC has opening for attorney to serve six–year term 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 commerce. Letters to the Editor must include the writer’s signature and printed or typed name, full address and telephone number. Brevard Business News reserves the right to edit all letters. Send your letters to: Editor, Brevard Business News, 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D, West Melbourne, FL, 32904. Subscription Rates for home or office mail delivery are $26.00 for one year (52 issues). Send all address changes to: Circulation Department, Brevard Business News, 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D, West Melbourne, FL, 32904. BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 4 The Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission has a vacancy. One attorney is needed to serve a six–year term beginning on Jan. 1, 2009, and expiring Dec. 31, 2014. The 15–member commission is authorized to investigate complaints against judges. Persons interested in applying for this vacancy may download the “special appointment” application at www.floridabar.org, or call (850) 561–5757 to obtain a form. Completed applications must be submitted to the Executive Director, The Florida Bar, 651 E. Jefferson St., Tallahassee, Fla., 32399–2300. The deadline is Friday, Oct. 31. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of applications. United Way to kick off annual campaign United Way of Brevard will kick off its 2008 fund–raising drive on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Premiere Oaks Theaters, 1800 W. Hibiscus Blvd., in Melbourne. Guests will be invited to join the “Live United” movement at the event, which will begin at 11:30 a.m. The cost is $10 per person and includes a Live United T–shirt and a boxed lunch. This annual event will feature recognition of the efforts of early summer fund–raisers at select companies throughout Brevard known as “Pacesetter” campaigns. “Pacesetters are an important aspect of our fund–raising drive each year,” said Rob Rains, president of United Way of Brevard. “Not only do they help build momentum, encouraging others with their efforts, they also enable us to raise in excess of 20 percent of our campaign total early. It’s an honor to have this chance to thank them for their hard work on our behalf.” Setting its sights high, United Way of Brevard hopes to raise a record $6.7 million in support of 98 local health and human–service programs at 50 nonprofit agencies. To RSVP for the event, contact Chris Logan at 631–2740. Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN DIGEST Florida Syngas LLC wins grant from state of Florida Local firm Florida Syngas LLC has been awarded a $3,000 Phase Zero grant from Enterprise Florida Inc. and the Technological and Research Development Authority. Florida Syngas of Grant has been contracted to create a Phase 1 proposal for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Small Business Innovative Research Program (SBIR). The Phase Zero program is a state of Florida sponsored program that helps a small business to offset the costs of creating a full Phase 1 proposal for the USDA SBIR program. The USDA and other government agencies routinely request research project proposals from small business. Florida Syngas has developed and patented a technology that converts waste glycerol into a clean– burning synthesis gas (synthetic gas). This is noteworthy because glycerol is the waste, or coproduct that is generated by the biodiesel–refining industry, said Larry Bell, vice president of marketing for Florida Syngas. “There is a glut of glycerol on the market today and it will only grow exponentially as the biodiesel industry matures,” he said. Whitney Rieks, the firm’s research chemist, adds, “Since we start out with a clean molecule our output energy is also clean and carbon neutral.” Florida Syngas will propose to study the effects of BTU manipulating on its synthesis gas by reducing the nitrogen dilution effects caused by air, Rieks said. “Being able to manipulate the specific BTU content in a cubic foot of gas will open the door to many other energy applications for the technology.” Visit www.FloridaSyngas.com for more information. Clevens pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 5 IAAP to meet Sept. 9 in Cocoa Beach The Central Brevard Chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals will meet at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 9, at Courtyard by Marriott, 3425 N. Atlantic Ave., in Cocoa Beach. Bridget Griffin, operations manager at Parrish Health & Fitness Center, will be the guest speaker. The reservation deadline is Friday, Sept. 5. To make a reservation to attend the function, contact Charlene Spangler at [email protected]. Chapter meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month. Sutton Prospect pick up BBN Shaw Mechanical to retrofit high school The special projects division of Shaw Mechanical Services LLC of Orlando recently announced it secured a $1 million contract with Brevard Public Schools for the retrofit of the mechanical systems at Rockledge High School. Under the contract with the district’s facilities department, Shaw Mechanical is performing the mechanical–equipment installations of 750 tons of HVAC equipment including ice storage to reduce peak–load energy consumption. Additionally, Shaw Mechanical is handling site work, concrete, steel, fencing, electrical, fire alarm and controls. The project, which is under way, is scheduled for completion in December 2009. Engineering is being provided by Cape Design Engineering Co. of Cape Canaveral. Shaw Mechanical Services LLC is a Central Florida– based provider of mechanical contracting and service to building owners, property managers, facility managers, plant engineers, general contractors and consumers. SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 Artemis pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 3 Shuler pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 5 HRH Commercial Insurance Liability #KNJMWCC CLCRQ pickProfessional up BBN 2101 S. Waverly Place Scott Altenhof, ARM, AAI 8-25-08 Suite 200C 321-952-6463 Melbourne, FL 32901 page 14 www.hrh.com Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 5 F L E X Y O U R O P T I O N S W I T H 68,000 SQ.F T. OF WORKOUT CHOICES AT OUR NEW VIERA LOCATION! STOP BY OUR VIERA LOCATION September 6, 7, or 8th to register to win a 1-year membership! PR O- HE A LT H O P T I O N S : PUBLIC SNEAK PREVIEW WEEKEND! FIRST FLOOR U Four-lane lap pool UÊ i>Ìi`ÊvÌiÃÃÊ« UÊ i½ÃÊ>` womi½ÃÊViÀÊÀÃÊÜÌ ÊÃ>Õ>]ÊÃÌi>ÊÀ]Ê>`Ê>VÕââ UÊ ÀÕ«ÊiÝiÀVÃiÊÀ UÊ 7iiÃÃÉviÃÌÞiÊ*À}À> UÊ /ÜÊÀ>VµÕiÌL>ÊVÕÀÌà UÊ Þ>ÃÕÊÜÌ ÊÀi}Õ>ÌÊL>ÃiÌL>ÊVÕÀÌÉÛiÞL>ÊVÕÀÌ UÊÎ]{ääÊõ°vÌ°Êi>Ì ÊÀÃÌÊ"ÕÌ«>ÌiÌÊ,i >LÌ>ÌÊ-iÀÛViÃÊ ÀiV>Ì}ÊvÀÊ-ÕÌÀii® UÊ 9}> SECOND FLOOR UÊ ÀÕ«Ê ÞV} UÊ >ÃÃ>}i UÊ `ÀÊÌÀ>V UÊ `ÌÊV `V>Ài® UÊ ÀiiÊÜi} Ìà UÊ *ÀÊ- « UÊ *>Ìià UÊ ->VÊ- >VÊÜÌ Ê7 UÊ -ÌÀi}Ì ÊÌÀ>}ÊiµÕ«iÌ UÊ >À`Û>ÃVÕ>ÀÊiµÕ«iÌÊÜÌ Ê«iÀÃ>Ê ÛiÜ}ÊÃVÀiiÃÊvi>ÌÕÀ}Ê ,"Ê//,®: ÌÀi>`Ã]Êi«ÌV>ÊVÀÃÃÌÀ>iÀÃ]ÊÃÌ>ÀÊ ÃÌi««iÀÃ]ÊÃÌ>Ì>ÀÞÊLià ->ÌÕÀ`>Þ]Ê-i«Ì°ÊÈ £äÊ>ÊÌÊxÊ« -Õ`>Þ]Ê-i«Ì°ÊÇ ÊÌÊxÊ« Health First new ad emailed FULL COLOR The Health First Pro-Health & Fitness Center Viera is situated west of I-95 (exit 191) on the southwest corner of Wickham Road and Lake Andrew Drive. 8705 North Wickham Road. *,"1Ê" , V , " 1 / 9 F/ --Ê /,"F Ê / Four convenient locations for all members: Melbourne 321.434.7149 Merritt Island 321.434.5801 Palm Bay 321.722.5943 Viera Grand Opening Sept. 8th 321.434.9149 7- /" /" ",Ê1 B - Ê / ° S P E C IAL P R E -R E GIS TR ATION OFFE R ! NE W M E M B E R S – P R E -R E GIS TE R AT ANY LOC ATION B Y S E P T. 7 TH, AND YOUR $ 1 0 0 E NR OLLM E NT FE E W ILL B E W AIVE D. 321.434.9£{ÊÊUÊÊ BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 6 Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN DIGEST Cunningham, Ingram & Anderson helps Habitat for Humanity grow Habitat for Humanity of Brevard County has announced it will be relocating to a new CIA Developers facility on Ellis Road in Melbourne. The nonprofit group, which is located in Melbourne Business Park, off of John Rodes Boulevard, has outgrown its current 9,000–square–foot facility. The new location on Ellis road will feature 22,000 square feet of office and warehouse space and will house Habitat’s rapidly growing ReStore. “It has always been our pleasure to assist Habitat for Humanity of Brevard County,” said Rick Kendust, marketing and leasing coordinator for CIA Developers. “For such a large and far–reaching organization, it was very important that they find a facility to fit their needs.” Habitat for Humanity of Brevard has been a longtime tenant of CIA Developers. In 1990, Habitat first located in CIA’s Melbourne Business Park. Since then, the organization has continued to grow requiring larger and more functional space to operate. “The diverse portfolio offered by CIA Developers continues to serve the organization’s needs with each successive move,” Kendust said. Habitat will be open at its new location, 7815 Ellis Road, on Sept. 1. A grand opening will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 18. The public is invited to attend the event. For more information on the community open house, call 255–5800. Tech student earns CWA scholarship Wet Flooring Replacement Replacement WE CAN REMOVE WE CAN REMOVE AND DISPOSE OFOF YOUR WET FLOORING AND DISPOSE YOUR WET FLOORING QUICK INSTALLATION ON QUICK INSTALLATION ON IN-STOCK FLOORING IN-STOCK FLOORING CARPET - TILE - WOOD LAMINATE - VINYL CARPET - TILEPLANKS - WOOD LAMINATE - VINYL PLANKS OFF-HOUR AND WEEKEND SERVICE OFF-HOUR AND WEEKENDFURNITURE SERVICE PROFESSIONAL MOVING AND RE-SET PROFESSIONAL FURNITURE MOVING AND RE-SET 254-2491 WET FLOORING HOTLINE EXT #20 WET FLOORING HOTLINE EXT #20 Call for FREE Estimate 254-2491 CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE Katie Bascom Davis, a Florida Tech student working on a master’s degree in civil engineering, has earned the first Build Your Future scholarship from the Construction Writers Association. The award was for $2,000. She was nominated for the scholarship by Florida Tech Professor Ralph Locurcio, a retired brigadier general in the Army Corps of Engineers. He said, “Katie is an extremely dedicated and serious student. Her oral and written expression is excellent.” Davis, who earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Florida Tech in 2006, is considering career opportunities in construction journalism, marketing or public relations. Her academic concentration is in construction management. The Construction Writers Association is a non–profit, non–partisan international organization. Its members are journalists, publicists, photographers and marketing communications professionals serving the information communication needs of the construction industry. Realtors to benefit Special Olympics Space Coast Association of Realtors will host its 11th annual golf tournament to benefit the Special Olympics at 8 a.m. on Oct. 10 at the Duran Golf Club in Viera. This is a four–person scramble golf tournament. Proceeds from the event typically raise nearly 50 percent of the organization’s annual operating revenue. There is an early registration discounted price of $90 per person, or $360 per team. The deadline to receive this pricing is Sept. 10. The normal fee is $100 per person, or $400 per team. For information about the tournament or to register for the benefit, call Ben Mitas of RBC Bank at 446–4294, Kathy Starkey of Hartung Real Estate at 480–3953, or Cindy Honkonen of the Space Coast Association of Realtors at 452–9490. Sponsors are needed for the tournament. SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information You can enhance your company's image with one simple move! One Harbor Place offers you Melbourne's best office views overlooking the scenic Melbourne Harbor and the Indian River, not to mention covered parking and a fitness center. Beautiful private suites from 500 to 2300 +/- square feet are available for immediate occupancy. One Harbor Place provides the ultimate image of success for any size business. Call Kent Cooper at 777-7743 or 720-0429 for details. No other address makes you look so good. ONE HARBOR PLACE S.R. 192 and U.S. 1 Melbourne BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 7 BBN DIGEST FREE FAMILY CONCERT Lange joins Space Florida as its director of marketing BSO new ad emailed “ T H E M E LO D I C L I F E ” 6816(37(0%(5SP .,1*&(17(50(/%2851( PRINT YOUR TICKET at www.brevardsymphony.com Or pick up a ticket at the King Center Box Office, Wachovia Banks, Target-Melbourne, Barnes & NobleMelbourne, The Horn Section, Atlantic Strings, Marion Music, Lite Rock 99.3 or the BSO Business Office x MUSICE\WKH%UHYDUG6\PSKRQ\2UFKHVWUDZLWK JXHVWFRPSRVHUQDUUDWRU*UHJRU\6PLWK +$1'621$&7,9,7,(6$5($ - Meet the guest FRPSRVHU%62FRQGXFWRUDQGPXVLFLDQVSOXV0LNH 0LQG\IURP/LWH5RFN0XVLFDO,QVWUXPHQW 3HWWLQJ=RRKRVWHGE\WKH%6<2DQGPRUH LQIR#EUHYDUGV\PSKRQ\FRP PUBLIX SUPER MARKETS CHARITIES FREE ADMISSION)DPLOLHVZLWKWLFNHWVVHDWHGÀUVW These concerts sponsored by WACHOVIA FOUNDATION Performances of the Brevard Symphony Orchestra are sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Arts Council, and the National Endowment for the Arts, and the Brevard County Board of County Commissioners through the Brevard Cultural Alliance, Inc. x Harry & Wendy Brandon Family Foundation Offices For Rent National pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 3 850 - 1300 Sq. Ft - Three suites Palm Bay's BEST Location Move in for less than $1000/month Includes sales tax and CAM Call 321-727-3992 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 8 “MORTGAGE MONEY” Crissy pick up BBN 8-25-08 777-3232 “Brevard’s mostpage referred7 lender since 1981” CAPE CANAVERAL — Space Florida has announced the appointment of Tina Lange as director of marketing communications for the growing aerospace– development organization. Lange is responsible for planning and delivering a variety of statewide marketing and public–relations programs to support Space Florida’s business–development efforts. She will focus on communications with aerospace trade media and will also work to enhance the overall awareness of the Space Florida brand. Lange has more than 12 years experience in communications, marketing and public relations. Before joining Space Florida, she served as an external communications specialist for The Boeing Co. at Kennedy Space Center. She managed all Florida–based public and media–relations activities for the defense contractor. “Tina will make a great addition to our dynamic team,” said Space Florida President Steve Kohler. “Her mix of public relations and marketing expertise will serve as an asset in attracting aerospace–related business to the state of Florida and in promoting the Space Florida brand.” Lange holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Colorado and has achieved national accreditation status in the field of public relations. Dr. Gloria Rivera King opens practice Dr. Gloria Rivera King, a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist, has opened her practice at 109 Silver Palm Ave. in Melbourne. The practice is housed in the Arthritis and Joint Center of Florida, run by Dr. Daniel King. She provides treatment for adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients and specializes in marriage and family therapy. Dr. King has 12 years experience in her field. She earned her doctorate degree in counseling, with a specialization in marriage and family therapy, at Barry University, based in Miami. She received a master’s degree in mental health counseling at Rollins College in Winter Park, as well as a bachelor’s degree in psychology at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Before relocating to Brevard County, Dr. King worked as the counseling program director at Catholic Charities of Central Florida in Orlando, where she was employed for 10 years. She is accepting new patients and can be reached at 506–8373. Annual SeniorFest Oct. 10 in Melbourne The ninth annual SeniorFest Information Expo will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 10, at the Melbourne Auditorium, 625 Hibiscus Blvd. This event is sponsored by Brevard County TRIAD with major sponsors CVS Pharmacy, “Florida Today,” Wuesthoff Health System, Maxim, Community Service Council and WellCare. The event will feature more than 90 information booths and a hospital–sponsored Health Fair where free and low–cost health screenings and services will be offered. Flu shots will be offered at no cost to attendees who have a Medicare card. Admission and parking for SeniorFest are free of charge. The law firm Allender and Allender is sponsoring a free lunch for attendees. Humana will provide cold drinks. For additional information, call 264–6933 or go to www.brevardtriad.org. Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN DIGEST Cornell graduate Cohen joins Health First in media relations ROCKLEDGE — Elliot Cohen has joined the Health First Marketing and Communications Department as the media–relations specialist. He will serve as media spokesperson and direct all media efforts for Health First’s three hospitals, as well as the organization’s network of outpatient and wellness services. Most recently, Cohen served as director of media relations for the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. Previously, Cohen was the chief public information officer for the City of West Palm Beach. He has nearly 10 years of radio and television reporting experience. In his media positions, he served as a reporter and assignment editor for the ABC television affiliates in both Miami and West Palm Beach, as well as for the CBS affiliate in Memphis. Cohen was also a correspondent for several radio networks in New York City. Cohen is a graduate of Cornell University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in industrial and labor relations. “Elliot brings significant media relations experience to this position,” said Keith Lundquist, vice president of marketing communications for Health First. “His credentials will be valuable in communicating with Brevard residents about Health First’s current and future plans, including the new Pro–Health & Fitness Center in Viera, the expansion of Palm Bay Community Hospital, the soon–to–come 100–bed Viera Hospital and Medical Office Building, as well as Health First’s other services and programs.” Cohen can be reached by telephone at 434–4359, or by e–mail at Elliot.Cohen@Health–First.org. Another Landmark Building Designed by MAI Menzels MAI pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 7 Porsche of Melbourne is a $1 million 3,100 sq. ft. luxury auto dealership built with a steel roof, reinforced concrete and a custom aluminum facade. Completed in just six months, the ultra-modern design reiterates Porsche’s sleek lines. FULL COLOR got commercial? MAI specializes in masterplanning; taking your venture all the way from concept to occupancy. A single company to assess, design and build your next project. Call today for a free site evaluation of your commercial property. B&N to host party for children Barnes & Noble in West Melbourne will host a Summer Reading Wrap–up Party at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6. The store is at 1955 W. New Haven Ave. B&N’s children’s department will celebrate the end of the annual summer reading program. Call 726–8817 for more details. MAI architecture engineering construction 321-757-3034 www.mai-aec.com 2220 Front St. Suite 300 Melbourne, FL 32901 Landmark Buildings since 1985 AA-0002419 EB-0006274 CG-059791 Publix awards grant to Junior Achievement SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 PIP Printing Prices good July, August and September 2008. Junior Achievement of East Central Florida Inc. recently announced that it has received a grant of $4,500 to support the implementation of JA Careers with a Purpose and JA Success Skills in special population classrooms in both middle and high schools in Brevard Public Schools. The grant was awarded to JA by Publix Super Market Charities. JA Careers with a Purpose is an educational program that demonstrates the importance of positive values, life maxims, and ethical decision–making within the context of career and life decisions. JA Success Skills meets the needs of a diverse group of high school students by providing engaging, academically enriching, and experiential– learning sessions in work–readiness education and career perspectives. “We are pleased to receive this grant in support of our educational programs for middle and high school students,” said JA President Tambre Clark. “These funds have allowed us to implement the programs to a more diverse population, reaching more students in Brevard County.” For information on JA programs or to volunteer to present a JA program in a local classroom, call 636–1000. pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 13 Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information . BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 9 BBN BUSINESS Albert Cuillo returns to Infiniti of Melbourne, where he was G.M. in the 1990s before his family sold the franchise to the Boniface Hiers Automotive Group — store is six–time Award of Excellence winner By Ken Datzman One of the top–performing, service–driven automobile dealerships in Brevard County over the past 14 years — whether under the ownership of Cuillo Enterprises of West Palm Beach in the 1990s or current operator Boniface Hiers Automotive Group — has been Infiniti of Melbourne. The store on South Apollo Boulevard has stood at the top of the Infiniti dealership network in the U.S. in a number of service– excellence categories. For example, the Melbourne store is a six–time winner of the Award of Excellence, Infiniti’s highest honor for customer satisfaction. “We are currently No. 1 in the nation right now for customer satisfaction among Infiniti dealers,” said Albert Cuillo III, who recently joined Infiniti of Melbourne’s management team and is a former general manager of the dealership. “And, this store’s service department has been No. 1 in the country several times. So, A.J. (Hiers) has carried on the tradition that was established in the mid– 1990s.” Cuillo says dedicated team members have made Infiniti of Melbourne the dealership it is today. He cites longtime staffer Laura Pfeiffer as an example. “Laura has been with Infiniti of Melbourne since it opened. She is one of the main reasons why we have been able to win the business of so many repeat customers.” Pfeiffer is the store’s service manager. When vehicles are serviced at Infiniti of Melbourne, each car or SUV is hand–washed and vacuumed as a courtesy of the dealership. Cuillo was the general manager of Infiniti of Melbourne from 1994 to 1999. Robert Cuillo, his uncle, owned the franchise at the time and introduced the brand in Brevard County. Robert Cuillo sold the dealership to the Boniface Hiers Automotive Group in late 2001. After running the Infiniti store for five years, Albert Cuillo took charge of a Chevrolet dealership in Central Florida that his uncle owned. He enjoyed a lot of success there, too. Infiniti will celebrate its 20th anniversary in the U.S. in 2009. The brand has built a reputation for top–ranking customer service, contemporary design, and driving performance. Infiniti is Nissan Motor Co.’s luxury brand. “Infiniti has made huge strides in the market with its lineup of vehicles. In the mid– 1990s, the brand was still evolving. We didn’t have the type of vehicles that the Infiniti dealers have today,” Albert Cuillo said. In 1999, Nissan Motor Co. made the decision to reinvest heavily in the Infiniti line. The BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 10 decision turned Infiniti into one of the fastest– growing and most technologically advanced luxury brands in the U.S. “The new FX is an example. It’s loaded with technology — cameras, sonar and radar. It has intelligent cruise control and much more,” he said. The FX, a crossover SUV, offers a safety technology called Distance Control Assist, which reduces the burden of driving in heavy traffic by “intuitively helping to release the throttle and apply the brakes” to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. Also available on the FX is Intelligent Brake Assist, which provides “forward–collision warning and automotive–emergency braking, along with a lane–departure–warning system,” which helps keep the vehicle in its travel lane. “The lane–departure system will correct the vehicle for you, should you drift out of your lane,” said Albert Cuillo. Before returning to Infiniti of Melbourne this summer, Albert Cuillo was with the Chrysler store on Merritt Island owned by Boniface Hiers. “A position opened up at Infiniti of Melbourne and A.J. asked me if I would consider it, knowing that I was familiar with the dealership, its customers, and its processes. It was like coming home. It was kind of an eerie feeling walking into the store I ran years ago.” Albert Cuillo says he has been seeing some familiar faces come into Infiniti of Melbourne. “I am seeing people in this dealership that I saw in the mid–1990s. They are purchasing their third, fourth and in some cases their fifth Infiniti. It makes you feel good. And they are bringing their family members into the store. Recently, a couple from Vero Beach purchased an Infiniti here. They liked the experience. They brought in other family members. Within 90 days, we sold three vehicles to the same family. This is how you build a business.” Infiniti of Melbourne’s sales are up 24 percent over last year, led by the G35 sedan. “It’s our top seller right now, in terms of volume,” Albert Cuillo said. Infiniti offers a full line of luxury performance automobiles, including the G sports coupe and sedan, the M sedan, the FX crossover SUV, QX full–size SUV, and the EX “personal” crossover. The local store is offering zero percent interest for 72 months on some 2008 Infiniti models. “Additionally, we are offering 1.9 percent financing on Infiniti certified pre–owned vehicles,” he said. The certified vehicles are backed by warranty coverage. Only Infiniti models less than four years old and with under 60,000 miles qualify for the program, and they must pass a rigorous inspection, Albert Cuillo said. When you take delivery, your certified pre–owned BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth Albert Cuillo III is the newest member of Infiniti of Melbourne’s management team. He was the store’s general manager from 1994 to 1999. His uncle, Robert Cuillo, owned the franchise and introduced the brand in Brevard. Robert Cuillo sold the dealership in late 2001 to the Boniface Hiers Automotive Group. The 14–year–old store on South Apollo Boulevard is the No. 1 Infiniti dealership in the nation for customer satisfaction. Infiniti of Melbourne sales are up 24 percent over last year. Infiniti includes a 72–month, 100,000 total–vehicle–mile warranty. “The warranty program is very attractive. We’re doing quite well with our pre– owned vehicle sales and we have a nice selection,” Albert Cuillo said. In April, Infiniti was presented with the 2008 ALG Luxury Brand Residual Value Award. “Automobile Lease Guide” recognized Infiniti as the luxury brand forecasted to hold its value better than any other brand. Infiniti’s triumph marks the first time a manufacturer other than Mercedes–Benz, BMW or Lexus has won the award, further signaling the distinctiveness of Infiniti in the luxury category. “Infiniti vehicles really hold their value. That’s one of the things we are especially proud of,” Albert Cuillo said. In November, Infiniti’s new G37 convertible will make its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The G37 is slated to launch in the first quarter of 2009, and the hype has been building. Albert Cuillo said the car will feature a fully automatic three–piece folding hardtop, providing a coupe– like silhouette and all–weather protection when up and open–air driving when in the down position. “Infiniti had a convertible in the early 1990s. It was an M30. But this car is going to be unbelievable. It’s going to have a retractable hardtop.” The G37 looks like it will be a strong competitor to the BMW convertible models that have been previously unchallenged by Infiniti. Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN BUSINESS Health First looks to build on its success with the opening of a new 68,000–square–foot Pro–Health & Fitness Center in Viera, its fourth location in Brevard County; community open house set for Sept. 8 By Ken Datzman VIERA — The granddaddy of fitness centers in the region will open its doors to the public on Monday, Sept. 8. Local hospital operator Health First Inc. has expanded its Pro–Health & Fitness Center brand in Brevard in a big way with the addition of its fourth location in the county. Health First — building on its successes in Melbourne, Merritt Island, and Palm Bay — is set to show off its new 68,000–square–foot Pro– Health & Fitness Center to the community. The facility is at 8075 N. Wickham Road, in the 50–acre Viera Health Park that is being developed. The Sept. 8 grand opening is scheduled early and late, from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Current and new Pro–Health & Fitness members can get a sneak preview of the facility from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6, and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 7. Holmes Regional Medical Center introduced the Pro–Health & Fitness Center concept in the mid–1980s in Melbourne. The concept focuses on helping consumers achieve a healthier lifestyle through fitness and classroom education. “It has been a very successful venture,” said Steve Dietz, director of the Pro–Health & Fitness Centers in Brevard. “We have been able to grow the Pro–Health network in the county over the years as consumers have become more health–conscious. We’ve gotten tremendous support from Mike Means (Health First Inc. president and CEO). This is his vision.” The two–story fitness center in Viera is filled with state–of–the–art exercise equipment. Nearly 100 cardiovascular machines cover the second floor of the building. The equipment features Cardio Theater, an audiovisual experience that will change the way you feel about working out, Dietz said. “All of our cardiovascular equipment has the Cardio Theater attachment, which is a small TV. You can watch TV while you’re exercising.” The first floor of the building contains a gymnasium with a regulation basketball court, and a four–lane lap pool as well as a heated pool for aquatics and fitness programming. The first level also houses Health First’s 3,400– square–foot Outpatient Rehabilitation Services Center. There is a Wi–Fi Café and Juice Bar, too, on the first floor. The locker rooms have a sauna, a steam room, and a Jacuzzi. On the first–floor concourse, which is open to the public as well as members, the fitness center features a secured KidFit area. Parents SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 can check–in their youngsters and go workout. “We have cameras throughout the KidFit area. There is a monitor on the exercise floor (on the first level) and parents will be able to check on their children at all times,” said Dietz, a University of Florida graduate who will mark his 20th year with Pro–Health and Fitness in 2009. He has guided the business through its growth and expansion. The Pro–Health & Fitness Center building was designed by OLC Inc., an architectural firm headquartered in Denver, Colo., with an office in Orlando. The international company specializes in the design of hospital–based fitness complexes, athletic and recreational facilities, and aquatic centers. “OLC designed a beautiful facility. We’re anxious to show it off to the community,” Dietz said. A local company that specializes in commercial interiors, Designers West Interiors Inc., based in Melbourne with an office in Orlando, was part of the project team that worked on the facility. Businesswoman Kristin Becker operates Designers West Interiors. The general contractor was Doug Wilson Enterprises of Cape Canaveral. Dietz said Health First did a market– feasibility study in 2003 for the project and designed the fitness center to meet future growth projections. “Five years ago, growth in Viera was sizzling and the county in general was experiencing strong growth. There has been a pullback of late, but we believe over the long term the growth projections will happen.” The general manager of the $21 million Pro– Health & Fitness Center is Alisa da Silva. More than 100 employees will staff the center, including 40 full–time people. “I think we have pulled together an outstanding team,” she said. “The team members are excited about working at this facility and they are customer–service driven.” For the past 10 years, da Silva has worked as a wellness coordinator and as a manager in the Pro–Health & Fitness Center system. In addition to the Viera community, the facility is looking to draw members from north Melbourne, south Rockledge and Cocoa, Dietz said. “By the end of our first year, we are hoping to have about 2,500 memberships.” An individual membership is $50 a month. For a family of two, the fee is $70 a month. The senior rate (65 years and older) is $39 a month. The organization offers a variety of membership categories on a monthly basis with no contracts. Dietz said the fitness center is “currently waving its enrollment fees” for new– member registrations until Sept. 7. The enrollment fee for a single membership is $100. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth The Pro–Health & Fitness Center in Viera is registering new members and waving enrollment fees until Sept. 7. The enrollment fee for an individual membership is $100. From left: Steve Dietz, director of the Pro–Health & Fitness Centers in Brevard; Alisa da Silva, general manager of the Viera location; and Roy Wright, president of Cape Canaveral Hospital. lower cholesterol, combat chronic diseases, strengthen your heart and boost lung capacity, doctors say. And full–service hospital–based providers such as Health First see these fitness centers as a way to promote wellness in the community. “From Health First’s standpoint, part of our mission is to promote health and well–being in the community,” said Roy Wright, president of Cape Canaveral Hospital in Cocoa Beach, a Health First–owned facility. “It’s something that Mike (Means) has been championing for many years, having these types of programs and facilities available to the community.” A 2007 study examined the importance of fitness in the workplace, the role companies play in encouraging employee fitness, and the impact that fitness has on productivity levels. Exercise and work productivity go hand–in–hand, according to the workplace study conducted by Steelcase Inc. of Grand Rapids, Mich., and the Opinion Research Corp. In addition to the space dedicated to physical activities, the Pro– Health & Fitness Center has a sizable classroom where lifestyle education programs are conducted throughout the year. “The educational component sets us apart from a typical fitness center, we think,” Dietz said. “All of our educational programs are tied to the national health calendar. For example, February is Health Awareness Month. We’ll have a dietician lecture on healthy eating habits and healthy cooking, and also do cholesterol screenings.” Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 11 BBN EVENTS Health First system offers digital mammography RBC new ad emailed All the decisions you need FULL COLOR are right around the corner. At RBC Bank,™ we believe in giving your local business advisors the power they need to help you make the best decisions for your business. And we back them with the global resources of one of the top 10 financial institutions in North America. So you spend less time waiting for answers, and more time moving your business forward. Now with six offices in Brevard County to serve you. Call 1-800-236-8872 for the location nearest you. Let’s do something giant. Member FDIC. ©RBC Bank (USA) 2008. ®Registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. ™Trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under license. RBC Bank is a trade name used by RBC Bank (USA) and its branch offices operate under this trade name. “Let’s do something giant.” is a registered trademark of RBC Bancorporation (USA). Used under license. All Health First diagnostic imaging locations now offer digital mammography, the latest breakthrough in breast–imaging technology. This new technology “helps detect many breast cancers in the early stages, up to two years before they can be felt by a patient or her physician.” Digital mammograms are available at Cape Canaveral Hospital, Palm Bay Community Hospital, as well as at the Health First Melbourne and Merritt Island Diagnostic Centers. The new digital–mammography equipment was purchased, in part, by funds received from the Health First Foundation’s 2008 annual Ball proceeds, which raised nearly $300,000 toward bringing this new technology to the Health First system. These funds also helped fund digital mammograms for women who do not have insurance or resources to pay for this testing. With this new technology, there is no wait time for film to be developed, “so women get faster answers and have fewer repeat exams,” Health First says. For more information, call 434–6100. Course scheduled for construction contractors The Brevard Community College Contractor’s Licensing Prep course is scheduled for the Palm Bay campus beginning in September. The course helps workers in the construction field prepare for the state contractor–licensing examinations. The course will be held Sept. 2 to Dec. 9, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. “In today’s challenging housing market, workers are taking advantage of the prep class in order to equip themselves when the market improves,” said Richard Belton, director of the Center for Industry Training and Economic Development at BCC. The course fee is $495 (books are not included). The instructor will review the required books in class. For more information, call 433–7500. Brevard Art Museum jazz concert Sept. 5 The Ron Teixeira Trio will perform at the Brevard Art Museum’s Jazz Friday on Sept. 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The event is free of charge for museum members and $10 for guests. Jazz Friday, held the first Friday of the month, is sponsored by Florida Tech’s WFIT 89.5 FM and AT&T Real Yellow Pages. Guests can purchase a season pass at the museum, which entitles them to a year of free jazz, free admission to museum exhibitions, and discounts on museum–school classes and workshops. The museum is at 1463 Highland Ave., in Melbourne. Fifth Avenue Art Gallery reception g n i k a t u o y e r a e Wher pany? m o c r u o y With conference facilities and plenty of fun www.andrettithrillpark.com activities, Andretti Thrill Park is the perfect place to host your next company outing. From a corporate meeting, company picnic or celebration of a job well done, Andretti Thrill Park can make your event a memorable one. No matter if you have 5 employees or 500, we can accommodate your group, you can even reserve the whole park for your company to ensure that everyone has a great time. For more information or to make reservations, call us at (321) 956-6706. ??? FULL COLOR The opening reception for the third annual “100% Florida Juried Exhibition” will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 5, at the Fifth Avenue Art Gallery in Melbourne. The reception is free of charge and open to the public. Visitors can vote for their favorite artwork. The gallery is at 1470 Highland Ave., in the Eau Gallie section. The gallery, established in 1975, is artist–owned and operated. For more information on the event, phone 259–8261 or visit www.fifthavenueartgallery.com. MCT to present comedy ‘Underpants’ The Melbourne Civic Theater will present the comedy “Underpants” on Sept. 5 at 8 p.m. and on Sept. 21 at 2 p.m. Steve Martin has reinvigorated this 1910 Carl Stermheim play into an “hilarious, laugh–out–loud farce.” The MCT is in downtown Melbourne. Ticket prices are $17 for adults and $14 for seniors, students and children. Call 723–6935 for more information on the show. Crew team to host rowing clinic Sept. 6 Space Coast Crew, a high school rowing team, is accepting registrations for the 2008–2009 season. No previous rowing experience is required. You can learn more about this sport at a Row for Free clinic on Saturday, Sept. 6. This clinic will take place at Oars and Paddles Park in Indian Harbor Beach from 9 a.m. to noon. Interested teens who are not able to participate in the clinic are invited to attend a novice information meeting at West Shore Junior/Senior High School at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept 9. For more information, call Heather Rauchfuss at 725–5282 or visit spacecoastcrew.org. Brevard Zoo Teacher Open House set For reservation information call (321) 956-6706 • 3960 S. Babcock St. Melbourne, FL 32901 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 12 The 12th annual Brevard Zoo Teacher Open House is set for Wednesday, Sept. 10, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Teachers can view exhibits from Central Florida, preview upcoming teacher–educational opportunities, win door prizes, and enjoy complimentary food. There will be more than 30 exhibitors. The exhibitors will include Wonder Works, Keep Brevard Beautiful, Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science, the Brevard Community College Planetarium, Florida Public Archaeology Network, and the Sea Turtle Preservation Society. Call 254–9453, extension 219, or e–mail [email protected] to attend. Reservations are required. The deadline is Sept. 8. Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN EVENTS Surfside Youth Players accepting applications Surfside Youth Players in Cocoa Beach is accepting applications for the fall Performing Arts Workshop Program for students in grades 3 through 8. The program runs Sept. 9 through Dec. 5, with performances on Dec. 5 and 6. Workshop classes meet Tuesdays and Thursdays (attendance both days required) from 4:30 until 6 p.m. Tuition is $345 for the semester, and includes all supplies, a commemorative T–shirt, and a DVD recording of the final performance. Applications are available at www.surfsideplayers.com, or call 784–9347. Car Show Sept. 6 in Titusville More than 300 cars, trucks and motorcycles will be showcased in downtown Titusville from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 6. The Car Show is free of charge and will feature antique, modern and classic vehicles on display. For more details on the event, call Karen at the Titusville Chamber. Her number is 267–3036, or e–mail [email protected]. Open house at Campbell Center An open house will be held at the Isaac Campbell Senior Community Center, 701 South St., in Titusville, on Saturday, Sept. 13, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The community is invited to attend this event to learn about upcoming programs and activities offered at the center. There will be an opportunity to sign up for activities and refreshments will be provided. Contact Tommy Lee at 264–5040 for further information. Space Shuttles new ad emailed Women’s organization to meet Space Coast Unit 75 of WAVES National will meet on at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Indian River Colony Club on Murrell Road in Viera. WAVES National welcomes discharged, retired and active duty women from all of the sea services: Navy, Coast Guard, Marine, Navy nurses and Merchant Marine. Call Joyce Batti at 751–0108 for more information about the WAVES organization. Space Coast Ballet benefit Sept. 13 Friends of the Space Coast Ballet will present Ballet and Bordeaux, a wine– tasting benefit, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Wine Styles at The Avenue Viera. Tickets are $30 in advance and at the door. Call 253–0544 to purchase tickets. Space Coast Ballet’s artistic directors, Boris Chepelev and Janna Kirova of the Kirov in Russia and former principals on numerous stages around the world, will welcome guests and discuss future plans for “Nutcracker” and the coming ballet season. More information is available at www.spacecoastballet.com. ‘Dive–a–Thon’ set for Hilton Melbourne Beach A 24–hour “Dive–a–Thon” sponsored by Sea Level Scuba of Melbourne begins at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 19, at the Hilton Melbourne Beach Oceanfront Hotel. The event is free of charge and open to anyone interested in learning about scuba diving. The goal is to have a diver in the water the entire 48 hours and help bring “awareness to the young population of our community, ages 14 to 21, about the sport of scuba diving.” Licensed professional divers will oversee the event. If you wish to participate in the event, and you’re a certified diver, you will need to sign up and reserve your time slots for the weekend. All Dive–a–Thon information will be posted at www.SeaLevelScuba.com. Donations will be accepted. Chamber seeks arts, crafts people for event The Titusville Area Chamber of Commerce is inviting local arts and crafters to participate in its annual October Harvest Fest. The entry fee is $10. The event will be held from 6 to 10 p.m. on Oct. 3 in downtown Titusville. It is part of the Chamber’s “TitusNites Street Party.” For more information or to request an application, call Karen Johnson at 267–3036 or e–mail [email protected]. Fantasy of Flight event at Polk City The second annual “Roar ‘n Soar” at Fantasy of Flight in Polk City will be held on Saturday, Nov. 8, and Sunday, Nov. 9, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This is a “celebration of classic air, land and water–racing machines and family–fun activities.” Each day, aerobatic shows “will star the finest giant–scale model replica aircraft in the world.” A hands–on activity center will be hosted by Florida Air Museum and Sun ‘n Fun Fly–in. The Polk Museum of Art will sponsor an arts tent with activities for children ages 5 to 15. Single–day tickets are $23 for adults and $12 for children (ages 6 to 15); two–day tickets are $38 for adults and $19 for children. Active or retired military will receive discounts on their ticket purchases. Fantasy of Flight is at 1400 Broadway Blvd. For more information, visit www.fantasyofflight.com or call (863) 984–3500. SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 13 BBN T h e DIGEST C o o l i n g & F r e e z i n g S p e c i a l i s t f o r 5 0 Y e a r s Fresh, Cool and Green Topline pick up BBN especially if you want one that looks beautiful, works 8-25-08 well—and is good for the environment. Here are page 15 three easy ways to make an informed choice for your healthy 1 Shopping for a new refrigerator can be daunting, kitchen to keep your veggies—and the planet—green: FULL COLOR Brevard’s only Full Line Displaying Dealer 2 REACH FOR THE ENERGY STAR ENERGY STAR is a rating given by the Department of Energy for energy efficiency. Liebherr is a leader in the manufacturing of ENERGY STAR appliances so if you are shopping for refrigerators or freezers, look for Liebherr. 3 GO GREEN ALL THE WAY Packaging, production and waste removal systems also contribute to global warming. Liebherr is environmentally responsible at all levels of production including reduced use of chemicals, solvents, and energy consumption, using 100% recycled packaging materials and purifying the water used in the production process. Brownings pick up BBN 8-11-08 ppage g 7 Beth Ann pick up BBN Home Medical Equipment and Supplies Respiratory Equipment and Supplies Power 8-25-08 Wheelchairs and Seating We specialize in finding what you need page 7 Browning’s Pharmacy & Health Care • • • (321) 725-6320 141 E. Hibiscus Blvd, Melbourne, Florida 32901 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 14 MAKE SURE YOUR REFRIGERATOR IS AS HEALTHY AS YOUR FOOD You don’t want mercury in your food so make sure it’s not in your refrigerator. In June 2006, Liebherr becam e the first refrigeration manufacturer worldwide to comply with RoHS (Restriction of hazardous substances) by eliminating lead, mercury, cadmium, and other harmful chemicals from the production process. World’s Medical & EMTThe Supplies Greenest Refrigerator Uniform Mart ERAMart Uniform Manufacturer Featuring Products pick up BBN Uniform Mart pick upBBN BBN pickShoes up Uniforms 8-25-08 Accessories 7-03-06 1-23-06 page 7 page 6 676-0000 page 9456-5654 Melbourne Shopping Center 1387 S. Babcock Steet Merritt Island 325 E Merritt Island Cswy. Merritt Island New retirement community expands with land purchase VIERA — Watersong, one of the newest all–inclusive, luxury–retirement communities in Brevard, has purchased an additional 22 acres from The Viera Co., bringing its land total to 48 acres. The new acreage will house additional single–family cottage homes. Watersong is owned by Senior Living Communities, a leading provider of retirement communities throughout the southeast. Construction of the community is “moving along at a rapid pace and ahead of schedule,” said Shelly Lockhart, executive director of Watersong. “Drywall and roofs are now complete on all buildings, pools have been dug and construction of roads has begun.” Scheduled hard–hat tours of the property will begin on Aug. 29, she said. The model cottage and condominium–style villa is scheduled to open in November 2008, while the grand opening of the first phase of the community is slated for April 2009. “We are extremely excited about the tremendous progress of Watersong,” said Lockhart. “There has been an outpouring of interest from the community and we are looking forward to reaching the next milestones.” Members of Watersong will “enjoy care–free living in an environment well– suited for their needs today as well as the future.” Located in a setting just a short drive from the beach, “Watersong offers daily fine dining, maintenance–free living, an innovative wellness program and the security of knowing healthcare services are only a push–button away,” she said. Watersong also boasts a grand clubhouse, putting green and a wellness center complete with state–of–the art fitness equipment and indoor and outdoor pools. A gated community, Watersong has a staff that’s present 24 hours a day. Watersong will feature 118 single–family homes, 120 condominium–style villas, with 26 additional villas designated for enhanced living, 48 assisted–living apartments, and 24 memory–care apartments. To view photos of the development, visit http:// www.water–song.com/community_development.html. For more information on Watersong, visit www.water– song.com or e–mail info@Water–song.com. Tin Cup Tournament set Oct. 17 at Baytree Golfers of all ages and skill levels will be welcome to participate in this year’s Tin Cup Tournament to support the Florida Tech golf programs. The tournament will take place at Baytree National Golf Links in Melbourne on Oct. 17 with an 8 a.m. shotgun start. The format of the tournament will be a four–person– scramble with an entry fee of $100 per player to include green fees, carts and a buffet dinner at the end of the event. There will be contests throughout the day, including a longest–drive competition. In addition, the men’s and women’s golf team will assist with hit shots for $10 per shot. The Tin Cup Tournament will kick off this year’s homecoming festivities, which later include the Florida Tech Athletics Hall of Fame induction as well as 50th anniversary celebrations across campus. For more information, contact head golf coach Pat Cappola at [email protected] or assistant golf coach David D’Agostino at [email protected]. Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN DIGEST Brevard Health Alliance to open a Pediatric Primary Care Clinic Through multiple–funding sources, including a $360,000 two–year grant from the state Department of Health, the Brevard Health Alliance (BHA) is adding 2,000 square feet to an existing clinic in Palm Bay to extend services to children. The competitive grant was awarded to the BHA after a selection process narrowed more than 200 applicants down to just five in the state. Additional funding and in– kind support was made available by Health First, the Brevard Department of Health, and the Florida Covering Kids/Lawton Childs Center for Children. According to Lisa Gurri, chief operating officer for the BHA, “We were successful in this application process due to the generous support of this critical need.” The Pediatric Primary Care Clinic is scheduled to open at 5270 Babcock St. in September and will serve 3,200 children in its first two years of operation, she said. “The clinic will enable access to support services and state–of–the–art pediatric care in South Brevard, along with on–site access and application assistance to Florida Healthy Kids, the state–funded insurance program for uninsured children.” The money will also allow a staffing expansion to serve the clinic, including a bilingual pediatric physician, who also will serve as the chief of pediatrics for the BHA, and a pediatric nurse practitioner and six additional clinic staff members. As the county’s only Federally Qualified Health Center, the BHA works with a network of community partners to offer expanded primary health care, dental health, mental health, health–care education and preventive health services to citizens regardless of their ability to pay. BHA also enables access to reduced priced medications for its patients. BHA also operates from fixed–site clinics in Cocoa, Palm Bay and Melbourne, and it has a mobile health unit that provides on–site primary care to transitional housing facilities, homeless centers and in–patient treatment facilities throughout Central and South Brevard. The BHA is a consortium of local health–care providers and businesses working together to make care more accessible and more affordable in Brevard. The not–for–profit organization is run by Executive Director Dr. Kristi Sands Van Sickle. It is housed within Florida Tech’s College of Psychology and Liberal Arts. For more information, call 674–7148. • • • • • A1C • Thyroid Lipid Profile* Profile CBC • TSH Florida Clinical Lab PSA • CMP* Highly Sensitive pick up BBN Comprehensive Metabolic Profile C Reactive Protein 8-25-08 * 8-12 hours fasting required • Protime Health Tests Every Tuesday SELF PAY DISCOUNTS EVERYDAY! No prescription needed page 2 • Accepting All Physicians’ Lab Prescriptions FULL COLOR • No Appointment Necessary • No Waiting • Easy Access Parking • Most Insurances Accepted Suntree: 6300 N. Wickham Rd., Ste. 132L Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7:30am - 5:00pm Melbourne: 27 E. Hibiscus Blvd. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 6:30am-6:30pm • Sat. 8am - Noon For More Information Call SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 321-308-0868 299429 Some see land Somesee seeland land Some possibilities Wesee seepossibilities possibilities We MelbourneOffice Office Condos Melbourne Condos Nasa Palms Professional Center NasaPalms Professional Center Center Nasa $150 SFforforthe theBuilding Shells $150SF BuildingShells Shells $150 1,777 SF—1535W.W.Nasa 1,777SF—1535 NasaBlvd. Blvd. 1,777 2,218 SF—1555 W. Nasa Blvd. 2,218SF—1555 W. Nasa Blvd. 2,218 6,000 SF—1120Broadband BroadbandDr. (photo) 6,000SF—1120 Dr.(photo) (photo) 6,000 6,000 SF—1160Broadband BroadbandDr. 6,000SF—1160 Dr. 6,000 Willsubdivide subdividetoto1500 - 6000SF SF Will subdivide 1500- 6000 Will Newton Land pick up BBN Lease is Please call rates Lease negotiable- -Please rates 8-25-08 Lease isis negotiable call forfor rates Rockledge Condos Rockledge Retail/Office Condos Retail/Office Condos pageRockledge 2 The Floridian Kiwanis to host annual event for candidates The fifth annual Cape Canaveral–Port Canaveral Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast and Political Hob–Nob will be held from 8 to 11 a.m. on Oct. 4 at Manatee Sanctuary Park, 701 Thurm Blvd., in Cape Canaveral. Candidates seeking public office in Cape Canaveral and the surrounding communities will be given five minutes to introduce themselves and to present their policies and programs to their prospective electorate. At the end of each presentation, every candidate will be afforded the opportunity to participate in a five–minute question–and–answer session with the voting public. Candidates can register to attend the event via e–mail to [email protected], or call Tom Miesmer at 544–2369. 10 $ The Floridian $195SF BuildingShells Shells $195 SFforforthe theBuilding Shells $195 FULL COLOR Phase1-A - 16,000SF SF Phase 1-A(May (May2008) 2008)- 16,000 SF Phase BarnesBlvd. MurrellRd. Rd. Barnes Blvd.East EastofofMurrell Rd. Barnes WillSubdivide - 6000SF SF Will Subdivide1000 1000- 6000 SF Will Lease Please call rates Lease negotiable- -Please for rates Lease isisnegotiable call forfor rates www.newtonland.com www.newtonland.com *Prices *Pricessubject subjecttotochange changewithout withoutnotice. notice. 152N.N.Harbor HarborCity CityBlvd., Blvd.,Ste Ste200 200 152 152 200 32935 Melbourne, Melbourne,FLFL32935 (321) (321)751-6850 751-6850Fax Fax(321) (321)751-6851 751-6851 Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 15 BBN DIGEST Brevard Art Museum expands its offerings to the community Wuesthoff Hospital pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 12 The Brevard Art Museum’s Education Department has opportunities for art instructors, and is accepting proposals for classes and workshops, for the winter and spring 2009 sessions. The Museum School is expanding its offerings to the community with more classes for students of all ages and skill levels, from toddlers to teens, adults and seniors. Classes and workshops cover a variety of media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics and mixed media. Additionally, the Museum School has a wide range of volunteer opportunities available. The Student Volunteer Program at the Brevard Art Museum is available for students in grades 9 to12, and for college students. The program runs throughout the year and students can earn community– service hours, learn new skills and gain valuable experience. “This is a great opportunity for people to take an interactive role in the arts in our community,” said Bobbie McMillan, Museum School director. All classes, workshops and volunteer time will take place at the Museum School, 1520 Highland Ave., in Melbourne. If you are interested in submitting a proposal for a class or workshop, submitting your resume for an instructor position or volunteering, contact McMillan at [email protected]. Visit www.brevardartmuseum.org for a complete list of current classes and workshops, or pick up a printed schedule at one of the these locations. In Melbourne: Henegar Center, Melbourne Florist, Toni’s Hair Salon, and House of Lights. Indian Harbor Beach: Doubles. Palm Bay: Harris Corp., Palm Bay Academy, and Palm Bay Gym. Additionally, the list is available at Cocoa Beach, Eau Gallie, Melbourne Beach and Satellite Beach public libraries. Registration begins for Festival of Crafts Registration for tables and spaces for the 15th annual Festival of Crafts at Fox Lake Park in Titusville, to be held Nov. 15, is under way at the North Area Parks and Recreation Department operations office. Tables and spaces are $15 each plus Florida state sales tax and are limited to two per crafter. All items must be handmade or homemade. Application forms are available at 475 N. Williams Ave., in Titusville; by sending a self–addressed stamped envelope to the above address or online at www.brevardparks.com. The registration deadline is Nov 7. Stock Market DONATE CARS, TRUCKS, BOATS, MOTORCYCLES, GOLF CARTS, RV’s and MORE!! HELP CRIME H ELPPREVENT PR EV EN T JUVENILE JU V EN ILE C R IM E Sherriff's Office RECEIVE R EC EIVnew EMAXIMUM M A X ad IM U Memailed " “FA FAIR VALUE" IR MARKET M A R K ET VA LU E” Immediate Pick-up • Any Im m ediate Pi ckup •A ny CCondition ondition FULL COLOR FederalTax ID 59-3441257 59-3441257 Federal Tax ID Brevard County Sheriff’s Office Police Athletic League 225-3008 633-2106 “Filling Playgrounds…..not Prisons” BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 16 Continued from page 1 professionals: l Commodities: There’s nothing as basic as energy, precious metals, food, etc. “Gold is always a good barometer for fear and anxiety, and we have plenty of that now,” Schlossberg said. l Basic consumer products: “Health care and consumer staples (have) resilience to the business cycles. They are essential items that don’t bounce around as much as the economy moves up and down,” Schlossberg said. Telecommunications is another area that tends to outperform the market during an economic slowdown, he said. l Blue–chip stocks: “For truly long–term investors, it’s a great opportunity to buy equities,” Herrmann said. “Stocks are on sale now.” Fortune 500 companies are large enough to withstand an economic slowdown, and they derive a large portion of their sales from overseas. That’s a double plus: They benefit from stronger growth internationally, as well as from bringing in revenue in currencies that are stronger than the dollar. “It’s a nice protection for U.S. investors,” Campbell said, naming companies like General Electric, IBM and Hewlett–Packard. l Financial services: With banks, brokerage houses and mortgage lenders imploding on a daily basis, it sounds like heresy to suggest investing in the financial services industry. But the country will still need banks two years from now — and the ones that survive will be stronger than ever. l Timing: You can’t time the market just right. But again, experts emphasize, you should use a long horizon when deciding where to invest. “The question you should ask yourself today is not ‘When will the stock market bottom, next year or next month?’” said Jim Paulson, chief investment strategist at Wells Capital Management. “Draw a big circle around where we are today. Ask yourself, ‘If I step in and buy something, will I be happy two or three years from now, even if it goes lower in the next six to nine months?’ If you ask that question today about stocks in general, the answer is ‘Yes.’” Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN ADVERTISERS Come Play With Us! Have fun performing in Live Theatre! Learn acting, song, dance, character development, voice and diction, improvisation, audition techniques and more...FOR GRADES 3 THROUGH 8 Directed by BRYAN BERGERON Surfside Players’ Theatrical Arts Program R E G IS T E R N O W ! FA LL 2008 W O R K S H O P B E G IN S S E P T E M B E R 9 For more information call 784-9347 or email. [email protected] The Most Respected Name R in Real Estate Today, choosing the r right real estate agent is more important than ever www.cag-architects.com SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 RE / MAX Alternative Realty, Inc. 141 Coconut Drive, Indialantic, FL 32903 Office: 321-777-4111 Fax: 321-779-0208 Web: www.homes-spacecoast.com Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 17 + BBN ADVERTISERS Money and Earn $350 Save Up to $350 Bucks?* $50 Coupon $50 Coupon Apply for a new or used auto loan, sign loan paperwork, then take an 1 Express Loan Sight Draft to a dealer for purchase of auto. We’ll deposit $50 into your share account for gas!2 Open a new checking account with direct deposit and we’ll deposit $50 in your account if opened prior to November 1, 2008.* CECU 1 pick up BBN 8-25-08 page 18 Express Loan Sight Draft is a draft that allows you to save time at the dealership. Just sign the contract for purchasing the vehicle and your title forms. 2 $50 incentive for gas will be deposited to your share account when your loan is disbursed. Limited time only. MK-EBGAS $100 Coupon FULL COLOR $150 Coupon Lower your monthly payments. Refinance your auto loan to CECU from your other lender and we’ll deposit $100 in your share account Lower your monthly payments. Refinance your home equity loan to CECU from your other lender and we’ll deposit $150 in your share account at time of loan disbursement. Minimum loan amount to receive incentive is $10,000. Eligibility based on loan balance and creditworthiness. Limited time only. MK-AutoRe Minimum loan amount to receive incentive is $17,000. Offer is non-transferable and is not available on commercial loans. Limited time only. MK-Heloc *$50 incentive will be deposited to accounts in good standing after 90 days with direct deposit, and also have a balance of at least $25. If account is opened after November 1, you will receive a $25 incentive. Offer expires December 31, 2008. MK-CK50 Imperial Plaza new ad emailed FULL COLOR Get a financial fitness check-up in 15 minutes or less! Call Today! 321.690.2328 *Refer to coupons to see how you can save. Anyone getting a financial fitness check-up at one of our seven branches can receive a first aid kit while supplies last. Savings account required with $5 deposit. Membership open to everyone in Brevard and surrounding counties. Federally insured by National Credit Union Administration. Crossroads Village FOR SALE OR LEASE Strategically located on the southeast corner of North Wickham Road and the Pineda Causeway Realignment Brevard’s Premier Location for Accessibility and Convenience This location promises to be the ultimate business location on N. Wickham Road! Office condominiums are currently available for purchase or lease. Second Phase—Retail/Restaurant Coming Summer 2009! 7331 Office Park Place, Suite 200—Viera, Florida 32940 CHARINE LEWIS 5545 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, Florida BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 18 (321) 610-2008 Information contained herein has been obtained from others and considered to be reliable; however, a prospective purchaser or lessee is expected to verify all information to his/her own satisfaction. Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 BBN SPECIAL FOCUS Topline Appliance Continued from page 1 largest companies represent 35 percent of industry sales. Barnas said his stores are positioned to compete with the industry giants. “We don’t have 500 distribution facilities and thousands of employees. We’re able to keep our overhead very low. That makes a huge difference and really levels the field,” he said. Like many small–business owners, he is concerned about the rising cost of petroleum. “It’s having a big impact on the appliance business because plastics are made from petroleum. Costs this year have risen 20 percent.” Bob Barnas, his father, started the business in 1969 in Cocoa. Years later, the family expanded to Merritt Island and added a third store in Melbourne. Two years ago, the company made a bold move in the Melbourne market and launched its Superstore concept. The 14,000–square–foot showroom is located next to Target on West New Haven Avenue. Topline Appliance was housed in a 4,500–square–foot building on Wickham Road in Melbourne. “We carried all of these brands but couldn’t display them because of our space limitations,” Chris Barnas said. “This is a business where the consumer wants to ‘touch and feel’ the product — open the refrigerator door or turn on the washing machine and see it work. We now have a hands–on showroom. Everything is ‘live,’ literally. We sell over 55 brands and they are all on the floor. The Superstore model has worked great for us.” The live demonstration floor is designed to showcase appliance products in a home environment. Consumers can get a feel for the appliances before they purchase them. His Superstore sells the new lines of induction cooktops that manufacturers have been bringing to the market. “This is definitely a product that the consumer wants to see in action. It’s some interesting technology. Induction cooking has been around for about 20 years, but just in the last two or three years manufacturers have really honed the technology,” Chris Barnas said. Unlike conventional cooktops that create heat below a pot, induction cooking is an advanced technology that uses “electromagnetic energy to generate instant heat to the cookware,” he said. “It results in faster heating times. It’s twice as fast as gas and cleans better than gas cooktops.” Induction cooking uses less energy as compared to conventional cooktops, he adds. The Topline Appliance Superstore stands outs in the local market not only for its in–depth line of brand names but also for the exterior color of its building. For the past 15 years, the building was occupied by a national consumer electronics chain. Topline Appliance moved in and redesigned the space to create a showroom with wide isles for ease of movement. The building’s exterior was painted a bright yellow. Chris Barnas says his company’s colors are bright yellow and red. “A lot of people have commented about the color of the building. Yes, it’s eye–catching and it’s the company’s original colors.” In 2008, household appliance sales in Florida are down 24 percent, he said. Nationally, sales are off 18 percent. “Florida has been hit a little harder because of the housing downturn. Still, our business is showing an increase in sales. As a company, we’re up 5 percent,” Chris Barnas said. Topline is looking to carry the momentum of its first– half sales gains in 2008 into the final months of the year, he said. “September, October, November, December and January are typically the best months for appliance sales nationwide. November, of course, is generally the best month.” Demand in this business is driven by home sales, home remodeling, replacement because of product failure, and the “health of the economy,” Barnas said. While the overall houising market is looking to regain momentum, kitchen and bath remodeling continues to hold steady in the industry, according to the “2008 Kitchen and Bath Industry Outlook,” which is published by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. The number of adults who cook as a hobby continues to grow, spurring kitchen remodeling to accommodate more ambitious cooks. This, in turn, helps drive new appliance sales. Nationally, kitchen appliances account for 40 percent of store sales, while residential clothes washers and dryers comprise 20 percent of overall volume. Chris Barnas said the top–selling product at Topline Appliance’s Superstore is a front–loading washer. “We call them high–efficiency washers.” He said consumers are looking for ways to save money and cut their energy bills. Chris Barnas says the upfront costs of a new high–efficiency washer are “gained back tenfold” over the life of the product. “It actually pays for itself within the first two years because the machine uses half as much water. A normal washing machine uses about 50 gallons of water per load. A high–efficiency washer uses 25 gallons or less per load. So right away, you cut your water bill in half. They spin twice as fast, too. When you put the clothes in the dryer, you cut your drying time in half,” he said. Clothes–washer energy consumption has decreased by 63 percent since 2000, while tub capacity has grown by 6 percent, says the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers in Washington, D.C. The gains have been across the board in the appliance industry — less energy usage and more efficient products. Federal efficiency standards have had a big impact on the appliance business, “and that’s a good thing,” he said. Dishwasher energy consumption has dropped nearly 30 percent and water consumption has declined 29 percent since 2000. Refrigerator energy consumption has also decreased by 30 percent since 2000 and efficiency, measured by a unit’s energy factor, has increased 39 percent, according to the AHAM. The average refrigerator sold today consumes less energy than a 60–watt light bulb left on 24 hours a day, says the AHAM. Replacing older, inefficient appliances with more modern appliances is a way for consumers to reap big energy savings. Additional savings can be obtained by purchasing Energy Star–designated appliances. The Energy Star program was introduced by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1992 as a voluntary, market–based partnership to reduce greenhouse– gas emissions through energy efficiency. Today, the Energy Star label can be found on more than 50 different kinds of products, including refrigerators and washers. Bank FIRST new ad emailed SEPTEMBER 1, 2008 Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 or visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising Information BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 19 Class A Location for your Class A Company Suites ranging from 1,800 to 14,000 sq.ft now available Centrally Located to: t t t Melbourne Intl. Airport High-Tech District Downtown Melbourne Amenities Include: t t t t t On-site Property Management On-site Maintenance Security Hi-Speed Internet/Fiber Available Covered Parking ***For Leasing Information Contact*** Kris Jones (321) 725-0090 ext. 210 Email: [email protected] Located between the Melbourne and Eau Gallie Causeways at 709 S. Harbor City Boulevard, Melbourne, Florida