Klement’s role will be to analyze Manatee County Government programs and services, then to map out policies and business strategies that will more efficiently and effectively ensure quality services are being delivered to Manatee taxpayers. He will begin his new role on Sept. 13.

“In David, the organization has gained a trusted community leader,” said County Administrator Ed Hunzeker. “His critical eye will help facilitate a leaner county government and he will ensure greater public involvement in on some of the biggest issues facing the community.”

Klement retired from the Herald in 2007 to become director of the Institute for Public Policy and Leadership at the University of South Florida’s Sarasota-Manatee campus. At Manatee County he will similarly engage the public on discussions of how they want Manatee County to grow over the next two decades.

“I look forward to serving the citizens of Manatee County in a new capacity,” Klement said. “Having observed and commented on Manatee County Government from the outside for almost 35 years, I appreciate this opportunity to work with its leaders from the inside to improve efficiency and effectiveness.  I am gratified at the trust placed in me by Administrator Ed Hunzeker, and I promise to do my utmost to live up to that trust.”

He previously worked at the Bradenton Herald from 1975 to 2007. His journalism career began in 1962 with The Daily Oklahoman in Oklahoma City and he worked as night metro editor, deputy business editor and photo editor for The Detroit Free Press from 1966 until 1975.

He earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of North Texas and a master’s degree in mass communication from the University of South Florida, St. Petersburg campus.

Gov. Charlie Crist in October, 2009 appointed Klement to the Public Service Commission, the state panel responsible for regulating the rates, services and safety of privately owned public utilities. But in April, Klement and another Crist appointee were rejected by the Florida Senate, as the result of political fallout between the Governor and the legislature.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit our newly redesigned and improved website, www.mymanatee.org

BRADENTON, FL:    Community Bank is excited to announce that it is expanding its presence in downtown Tampa by moving its current branch to a new larger location at the intersection of Cleveland Street and South Boulevard.

The new branch at 110 South Boulevard, will open on Tuesday, October 12, and will offer expanded hours, two drive-through lanes and a drive up ATM to serve the community.

“So far this year we have made over $20 million in loans  in the Tampa Bay market and we are thrilled to have a larger location from which to serve our Tampa based clients,” said Community Bank President, Katie Pemble.   Katie also noted, “We are one of the few banks that is actively lending to small and medium sized businesses and our new location highlights our dedication to the Tampa Bay business community.”

CEO Bill Sedgeman added, “Tampa has been one of our strongest markets since we opened there in 1997.  We can’t wait to provide an even better set of services to our Tampa clients – expanded hours, dedicated small business lenders, mortgage specialists and 24/7 ATM banking will help us achieve our goal of being the best bank in the Tampa Bay market.”

Community Bank’s new Tampa location will be open in the drive-through from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and to 6:00 p.m. on Fridays.  The lobby will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and until 6:00 p.m. on Fridays.  24/7 drive up ATM banking will also be available.

ABOUT COMMUNITY BANK OF MANATEE
Founded in 1995, Community Bank continues to specialize in solutions for individuals by offering the regions best checking account, “Clover Gold,” residential mortgages including “jumbo mortgages” with local, quick decision-making, and in business solutions including Small Business Administration loans.  Community Bank was recently ranked as the number one local community bank for SBA loans.

Community Bank, is a local, independent bank serving the communities of Florida’s central Gulf Coast with five branches in Manatee and Hillsborough counties:

2025 Lakewood Ranch Boulevard, Lakewood Ranch, FL             941-750-0700
6000 State Road 70, East, Bradenton, FL                                     941-756-0099
7202 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton, FL                                941-761-3400
1001 West Cleveland Street, Tampa, FL                                      813-258-8187
10109 U.S. Highway 301 South, Riverview, FL                             813-672-0999

For more information, visit the bank’s website at:  www.CommunityBankNow.com or contact the nearest office.

The workshop is scheduled for 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 9, at the Central CRA headquarters, 302 Manatee Ave. E. The workshop is free but participants need to register by calling (941) 309-9043.

Topics to be discussed include business plans, legal structures, taxes, insurance, loans and more.

This workshop is presented by Suncoast Community Capital Corp. and State College of Florida.

Tampa, Fla. (Sept. 2010) – Vertical IT Solutions, Central Florida’s leading provider of outsourced information technology, announced today the additions of Michael Gonzalez and Brian Verrette to its growing team. Gonzalez will join Vertical IT’s customer service division as a Remote Support Engineer, Verrette will join as Field Engineer.

“Our business is booming right now, and everyone on our team is super busy,” said Andrew Cohen, president and CEO of Vertical IT Solutions. “That’s why we’re so excited to bring Mike and Brian on board. They are veteran professionals who can hit the ground running and deliver outstanding service to our customers from their first day on the job.”

Gonzalez and Verrette will both play key roles in continuously improving the Vertical IT customer service process. As Remote Support Systems Engineer, Gonzalez’s responsibilities include remote diagnostics and remediation, monitoring backup notifications and initiating corrective action, monitoring remote agents and initiating corrective action and applying licenses.  Gonzalez most recently served as Enterprise Software Support for Sunbelt, and as a member of the Help Desk Desktop Team for Pricewaterhouse Coopers prior to that. He received his Associates in Science degree in Computer Engineering Technology from Tampa Technical Institute.

As Field Engineer, Verrette is responsible for delivering the Care4IT experience <http://www.verticalit.com/blog/?p=134>  to his VIT clients. With nine years of experience in the IT industry and six years as a field engineer, Verrette most recently served as Local Platform Specialist with Activant Solutions in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He received his Bachelors in Science in Information Technology from the University of Phoenix.

About Vertical IT Solutions
Vertical IT Solutions is one of Florida’s leading providers of outsourced information services for small, medium and enterprise businesses.  Founded in 2002, Vertical IT Solutions serves multiple industry sectors including banking, financial services, real estate, staffing, construction, and non-profit organizations.  For more information, visit www.verticalit.com.
###

TAMPA, FL – September 2010 – The Tampa Bay Sports Commission and Waste Management are partnering to help make local events more green.  As the nation’s largest provider for recycling and environmental solutions, Waste Management is pleased to offer recycling services for cardboard, paper, plastics, glass bottles, aluminum cans and other materials for each Tampa Bay Sports Commission sponsored event within the Tampa Bay area.

“Waste Management is committed to enhancing the communities we serve through programs that help make them cleaner, greener and better places to live,” said Rick Kania, Waste Management area sales director.  “Our partnership with the Tampa Bay Sports Commission will allow us to reach vast amounts of people to encourage more recycling in the Tampa Bay area.”

The Tampa Bay Sports Commission is focused on generating social and economic impact through the vehicle of sports and works with over 100 youth and amateur events on annual basis. These events produce over 100,000 hotel room nights annually and attract hundreds of thousands of visitors, impacting every area of the Tampa Bay community.

“We’re pleased to forge this unique partnership with Waste Management,” said Rob Higgins, executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission.  “Sustainability continues to be an enormous priority for our community and for our sporting events, and this dynamic partnership will offer us continued solutions for making our hometown a better place to work, live, and play.”

About Waste Management:
Waste Management, based in Houston, Texas, is the leading provider of comprehensive waste management services in North America.  Our subsidiaries provide collection, transfer, recycling and resource recovery and disposal services.  We are also a leading developer, operator and owner of waste-to-energy and landfill gas-to-energy facilities in the United States.  Our customers include residential, commercial, industrial and municipal customers throughout North America.

About Tampa Bay Sports Commission:
The Tampa Bay Sports Commission is a private, non-profit, 501c3, charitable corporation that serves the entire Tampa Bay area as the lead organization for bidding on and hosting major amateur sporting events. Our mission is to attract, promote and/or organize major amateur sporting events, and grassroots youth sports programs, that foster the ongoing development and quality of life for the entire Tampa Bay area.

Media contact is Travis Claytor, communications manager for Tampa Bay & Company, at 813-342-4052 or TClaytor@VisitTampaBay.com.

“The move to St. Petersburg/Clearwater support’s Frontier’s effort to provide our guests with convenient and affordable air travel.  With easy access to gorgeous beaches, our guests can start their vacation as soon as they arrive.  In addition, guests flying out of St. Petersburg/Clearwater airport will now enjoy nonstop access to two Frontier destinations with connections to our more than 70 destinations across the US, Mexico, and Costa Rica” said Daniel Shurz, Vice President of Planning and Strategy.

Airport Director Noah Lagos states, “PIE’s low airline rates and charges coupled with the newly renovated airport terminal were the key to landing Frontier.  They loved the customer friendly atmosphere and the new beach colored interior design of the terminal featuring signature artwork. One of their executives commented “that it was more like checking into a hotel than at an airport”.  The addition of new loading bridges was certainly important to Frontier.  We are thrilled to add Milwaukee and Omaha to our list of non-stop cities, as well one-stop service to exciting new domestic and international destinations.”

Flight schedules for St. Petersburg-Clearwater:

Milwaukee (MKE) – year round service begins November 18th
Route              Departs           Arrives             Frequency  Aircraft
MKE-PIE         7:38 a.m.        11:23 a.m.       Daily, except Wed* A319
PIE-MKE         12:03 p.m.       1:51 p.m.         Daily, except Wed* A319
*Schedule reflected above effective Dec. 16, 2010 –April 17, Nov. 18-Nov.29 2010, no Tuesday service;  Nov. 30-Dec.15 2010, no Tuesday and Wednesday service; Beginning Dec. 18 2010, Saturday and Sunday flight times are 2:40 p.m. – 6:25 p.m. (MKE-PIE) and 7:05 p.m -8:53 p.m. (PIE-MKE)

Omaha (OMA) seasonal service
Route              Departs           Arrives             Frequency  Aircraft
OMA-PIE         8:25 a.m.         12:25 p.m.       Wed/Sun*   E190
PIE-OMA         2:55 p.m.           3:00 p.m.       Wed/Sun*   E190
*Schedule effective Jan. 16 — April 17, 2011

About Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines is a wholly owned subsidiary of Republic Airways Holdings, Inc., an airline holding company that owns Chautauqua Airlines, Lynx Aviation, Midwest Airlines, Republic Airlines and Shuttle America. Currently in its 17th year of operations, Frontier employs more than 5,500 aviation professionals and operates more than 550 daily flights from its hubs at Denver International Airport and Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport. Frontier offers routes to more than 70 destinations in the United States, Mexico and Costa Rica.  On April 13, 2010, Republic Airways announced that its two branded carriers, Frontier and Midwest, would combine under the Frontier Airlines name. The integration of these two airlines is expected to take 12-18 months. Track our progress at FrontierMidwest.com.

For more in-depth information on Frontier Airlines and to book tickets, please visit its website at www.FrontierAirlines.com.

Frontier Airlines Media Relations Contact:
Lindsey Purves, 720-374-4560
media@flyfrontier.com

Amanatee Group LLC known for finding the cutting edge tools, information and processes needed for today’s business world is also the creators of the Global Reach Local Impact© project.

http://www.amanatee.com

Plaza Advisors represented the seller in the transaction and co-managing partners Anthony Blanco and Jim Michalak, together with Senior Financial Analyst, Lenard Williams were involved in the engagement. The seller and buyer were entities affiliated with Phillips Edison and Company and Equity One, Inc., respectively.

Plaza Advisors is a real estate brokerage firm that specializes in the disposition of retail properties in the southeastern United States. The firm has offices in Tampa and Miami.  Plaza Advisors’ clients include private equity investors, developers, and major institutions including fund advisors, servicing agents, life insurance companies, REITs, and money center banks.  Co-managing partners Jim Michalak and Anthony Blanco have a combined 40 years investment brokerage experience. The duo has closed over 140 shopping center transactions, with a combined GLA exceeding 15 million square feet with an aggregate sales volume in excess of $2 billion.

Sarasota, September 2010 – The American Red Cross is on the ground from North Carolina to New England, preparing to open shelters and feed those affected by Hurricane Earl as the Category 4 storm bears down on the United States, bringing heavy rains and sustained winds blowing at 140 mph.

As of 12pm September 2, 2010 the Manatee and Southwest Florida Red Cross Chapters have not received any requests for volunteers or deployment of our Emergency Response Vehicles (ERV).

The Red Cross has trained disaster workers across the country on alert to help respond to Hurricane Earl.  All along the eastern seaboard, the Red Cross is working with various state, county and local government officials to determine what their areas will need. Emergency planning is taking place in North Carolina, South Carolina, New York, Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.

People who are evacuating can register on the Red Cross Safe and Well Website so that friends and relatives can find out how they are. For those who don’t have internet access, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family. Follow the prompts for disaster information.

More than 150 mobile response vehicles are ready to travel to the East Coast, some as far away from the coast as Michigan and Wisconsin.  More than 30 of these Red Cross emergency vehicles will be in North Carolina later today.  Four Red Cross warehouses stocked with relief supplies are on stand-by, and two trailers of relief supplies are in route to North Carolina, carrying clean-up kits, tarps, work gloves, comfort kits, and trash bags.

If someone’s community is under a Hurricane Warning or Watch, they should listen for critical information from the National Weather Service.  Other steps they should take include:
Check disaster supplies and restock as needed.
Bring in anything that can be picked up by the wind.
Close windows, doors and hurricane shutters.  If hurricane shutters aren’t available, board up all windows and doors with plywood.
Fill the car’s gas tank.
Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the coldest setting and keep them closed as much as possible so food will last longer if the power goes out.
Turn off propane tanks and unplug small appliances.
Make plans for any pets.
Evacuate if authorities advise to do so.
More information about what people can do to prepare for a storm can be found at www.redcross.org.

To make a financial donation to the Red Cross to help people affected by this storm and other disasters here in the United States and around the world, people can click, call or text – visit www.redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.  The storm may also impact blood collections in the affected areas.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

What: Publisher & Creative Director of VERTICAL Tampa Bay and authority on the “Lifestyle Experience,” Leslie Ickowitz joins us for the upcoming segment of Icon Savvy – Leading Society News! A distinguished member of the Tampa Bay publishing community, Leslie alludes to VERTICAL’s upcoming plans, the passion that drove her to create such an innovative online magazine, her encouraging advice to others and much more.

When: Friday, September 3rd at 10:00AM

Where: www.IconSavvyTV.com

Why: Arriving to Tampa from the New York area, it seems Leslie never lost her “city girl” mentality as she prepares to celebrate the one-year anniversary of her fashionably flavorful publication, VERTICAL Tampa Bay. A 100% environmentally Green, interactive and digital magazine, VERTICAL offers local fashions to highlight the Tampa Bay area culture and inspire its audience.

Comparable to a “love letter” and designed specifically to uplift the community in a fashionable way, VERTICAL is on the brink of their one-year anniversary and embarks into the Fall season with their “Celebratory Theme.”

Believing in a strong philanthropic vision, Leslie not only provides the community members with exceptional fashion tips and uplifting columns but also is dedicated to assisting organizations and individuals in need. When it comes to the environment, Leslie explains to viewers also, that one of the reasons behind why VERTICAL isn’t printed as well, is to be certain the magazine can remain as Green as possible.

Make sure to tune in to this segment of Icon Savvy – Leading Society News with Leslie Ickowitz from VERTICAL this Friday, September 3rd at 10:00AM on www.IconSavvyTv.com!

About Icon Savvy TV:
“Icon Savvy: Leading Society News” is a local news and lifestyle segment hosted by Brandi Kamenar, CEO & Creative Director of Icon B. Marketing & Publicity Group, featuring industry “Icons” in the community who inspire and make an impact in Tampa Bay. The segments will be shown on www.IconSavvyTv.com.

About the Host: Brandi Kamenar
Known for her sense of style and entrepreneurial spirit, Brandi has a true eye for publicity and news. With a fashion-forward roster of clients and successful celebrities at her company, Icon B. Marketing and Publicity Group, she knows first-hand what it takes to thrive in the fast-paced luxury/lifestyle world. Connected to the area’s most exclusive social and business circles, Kamenar is a master-connector who was born to bring people together in unique and innovative ways. Her years of experience in the fashion and entertainment industries – including her work as a professional model – make her the perfect person to uncover the iconic life – right here in Tampa Bay.

Sponsors: Bob Rose of Reality Edit, Kim Ruesche of Ruesche Interiors, Roy Naccour of J. Joseph Salon, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE, Icon B. Marketing & Publicity Group, Tony Ludovico H2O Gallery and Jonathan R. Photo.

Media Partners:  Good Life Tampa Bay, Vertical Tampa Bay, Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine, BABM (Bay Area Business Magazine), What’s Hot Tampa Bay.

For more information regarding Icon Savvy TV and Brandi Kamenar, please contact leia@icon-b.com or call 315.651.5227.

The winning utilities, in alphabetical order, are Alabama Power, Birmingham, Ala.; DTE Energy, Detroit, Mich.; Duke Energy, Plainfield, Ind., and Charlotte, N.C.; Entergy Corp., New Orleans, La.; Georgia Power, Atlanta, Ga.; Hydro-Québec, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Memphis Light, Gas & Water, Memphis, Tenn.; Oncor Electric Delivery, Dallas, Texas; PPL Electric Utilities, Allentown, Pa.; and Tennessee Valley Authority, Nashville, Tenn.

Those qualifying for Honorable Mention include Ameren Corp., St. Louis, Mo.; ComEd – An Exelon Company, Chicago, Ill.; CPS Energy, San Antonio, Texas; E.ON U.S., Louisville, Ky.; FirstEnergy Corp., Akron, Ohio; Hoosier Energy, Bloomington, Ind.; Omaha Public Power District, Omaha, Neb.; PNM, Albuquerque, N.M.; Progress Energy, Raleigh, N.C.; and PSE&G, Newark, N.J.; .

“The top-performing utilities have several things in common,” says Ron Starner, executive vice president of Site Selection. “They are constantly raising the bar on delivering superior customer service. They are engaged now more than ever in providing companies with certified sites. They are always looking for ways to save industrial power customers money; and they are fostering and building regional coalitions of support for economic development.”

“Utilities play a key role as participants in the economic development efforts of cities, regions and all areas working to improve their local business climate,” says Mark Arend, editor in chief of Site Selection. “This year’s Top Utilities were particularly successful in this endeavor in 2009.”

The entire Top Utilities article and the annual Utilities Directory appear in the September 2010 edition of Site Selection and appear online at www.siteselection.com. Also featured in the issue:

In-depth reports on energy innovations, infrastructure, logistics, and plastics & chemicals;
The Canada 2010 Report, including Site Selection’s annual Canadian Competitiveness Award, Top Canadian Metros and Top Canadian Groups awards;
An Arizona spotlight featuring an exclusive interview with Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer;
International spotlights on China, India and Malaysia;
Area reports on California, Texas, Massachusetts, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, the Upper Midwest, the Southeast and the Mid-Atlantic;
Investment Profiles of the University of Delaware; Greater Topeka, Kan.; Malaysia; Saxony-Anhalt, Germany; Ameren Corp.; Sri City, India; and SP InfoCity IT Parks, India.

Site Selection magazine, published by Conway Data Inc., delivers expansion planning information to 44,000 executives of fast-growing firms. The senior publication in the development field, Site Selection is also available via Site Selection Online. TheSiteNet Dispatch, a weekly e-mail newsletter, is delivered to approximately 44,000 industry professionals. The publication also publishes “The Site Selection Energy Report” and “The Site Selection Life Sciences Report” monthly e-newsletters.

Conway Data is an international publishing and association management company headquartered in Atlanta. The firm manages the Industrial Asset Management Council, the Development Hall of Fame and the World Development Federation (WDF), offers consulting services and awards the Conway Safe Skies Award.

LAKELAND, FL (September 2010) — City of Lakeland Mayor Gow Fields was recently appointed to serve on the Board of Directors of the Florida League of Mayors for a two year term.

Established in 2005, the Florida League of Mayors is the official nonpartisan organization of mayors in Florida.  A comprehensive association for all mayors, the primary goal of the organization is to provide a platform and outreach for this powerful and influential tier of municipal leaders to speak out on issues of urgent interest to the citizens of their cities.

The Florida League of Mayors is governed by a 21-member Board of Directors—10 serve one-year terms and 11 serve two-year terms.  The organization is staffed by the Florida League of Cities.

“I am honored to have been selected for this position,” says Mayor Fields “I am excited about this leadership opportunity and having another way to serve the citizens of this community and Florida.”

The organization provides the mayors of Florida with the ability to explore and advocate for areas of mutual concern and opportunity.  Collectively, the Florida League of Mayors forms an effective network of strong, resourceful and prominent leaders working together to champion issues on behalf of cities, towns and villages in the state.

Mayor Fields was elected to the Lakeland City Commission in 1992 and became Mayor in January 2010.  He is Chairman of the Utility and Airport Advisory Committees. He is a member of the Lakeland Area Mass Transit District Board, the Transportation Planning Organization and the Polk Transit Authority Board. He is on the Board of Directors of the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, the Tampa Bay Partnership, Florida League of Mayors, and a member of the MyRegion.org Board of Advisors.  He is a member of the Downtown Lakeland Kiwanis, plus several other organizations.  He has been inducted into the Kathleen Sr. High School Hall of Fame and received their Distinguished Alumnus Service Award. He has also received the Distinguished Alumni Award for Polk Community College.

Mayor Fields was born in Lakeland, Florida. He is married to Kay and they have three children; Dorian, Leslie, & Jasmine. He graduated from the Kathleen Sr. High School, Polk State College (formerly Polk Community College), the University of South Florida and holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from Nova Southeastern University. He is the President & CEO of Fields & Company, Inc., doing business as Fields Insurance & Financial Group.

For more information for the next upcoming free presentation, please visit

www.theWomensResourceCenter.org or call 941.366.1700

According to the American Nurses Association (ANA), The nation is facing an impending shortage of nurses, which is expected to peak by 2020; here are some of the prime indicators:
According to projections released in February 2004 from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, RNs top the list of the 10 occupations with the largest projected job growth in the years 2002-2012. Although RNs have listed among the top 10 growth occupations in the past, this is the first time in recent history that RNs have ranked first. These 10-year projections are widely used in career guidance, in planning education and training programs and in studying long-range employment trends. According to the BLS report, more than 2.9 million RNs will be employed in the year 2012, up 623,000 from the nearly 2.3 million RNs employed in 2002. However, the total job openings, which include both job growth and the net replacement of nurses, will be more than 1.1 million. This growth, coupled with current trends of nurses retiring or leaving the profession and fewer new nurses, could lead to a nursing shortage of more than one million nurses by the end of this decade. (For details, see www.bls.gov/emp/#outlook.)

Largo, Fla. – August 2010 – GSA Access Group, (www.gsaschedulecontracts.com),  a full service government contract consulting firm, has opened a larger office to better serve their clients.  Now headquartered in St. Petersburg, FL, James H. Zach, President, states that “since the government now accounts for almost 50% of the Gross Domestic Product, we felt that now was the time to make our services even easier and more accessible for small businesses so that they get their share of the billions of dollars in Federal Government Contracts.”

A GSA Schedule contract streamlines getting a piece of the $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) and of the 23% of Government contracts available for small and disadvantaged businesses.  GSA Access Group gets your GSA Schedule approval, GSA contract renewal or modification fast allowing you to focus on running your business. Their complete, turnkey GSA Schedule application service includes a custom target market analysis, marketing kick off program and performance guarantee.  With or without the need of a GSA Schedule, they can get your company started bidding for Government contracts with their low cost FAST START program.

Another feature is the GSA Schedule Service which includes:

-       Connection Advantage – knowing the requirements and changes that will speed up your applicaton.

-       Schedule Pricing Negotiation – taking the extra step to survey your competition and negotiate pricing, giving you the advantage

-       Schedule Maintenance and Renewals – You remain their client for the next 20 years! With that you get the advantage of having someone with you every step of the way.

-       Management Services – You get the help you need with contract management

-       Preference for Socio-Economic Groups – Including small business, veteran owned, service disabled veteran owned, small disadvantaged, SBA Certified 8(a), and HUBZone firms.

About GSA Access Group: A full service GSA Consulting firm based in St. Petersburg, Fla., offering services that will help you get your share of Federal Government contracts while avoiding the red tape.  For more information go to www.gsaschedulecontracts.com or call 877-376-4269.

WHO:             Supporters of Moffitt Cancer Center, the only NCI-designated comprehensive cancer center based in Florida

WHAT:           Tampa Bay’s Dancing with the Stars 2010
Support three worthwhile Bay area charities while cheering on local celebrities at Tampa Bay’s Dancing with the Stars, hosted by Julie Weintraub’s Hands Across the Bay. Guests will enjoy food and cocktails, auctions, and entertainment by Fred Astaire Dance Studios Tampa Bay. The main event will feature 12 local celebrities paired with professional dance instructors taking to the floor with a dance of their choice. Attendees will have a chance to cast votes for their favorites – but even if you can’t attend, you can have a say in who takes home the crown! Votes can be purchased online at www.dancingforcharity.com. Online and attendee votes will be combined with judges’ scores that evening to determine the winner.

Funds raised will benefit Moffitt, Pepin Heart Hospital and the Kids Charity of Tampa Bay. Last year’s event raised more than $300,000.

WHEN:           6 p.m. Sept. 11

WHERE:         TPepin’s Hospitality Centre, 4121 N. 50th St., Tampa

CONTACT:    Melissa Johnson at melissa@handsacrossthebay.com or (727) 460-6542

About Moffitt Cancer Center
Located in Tampa, Florida, Moffitt Cancer Center  is an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center – a designation that recognizes Moffitt’s excellence in research and contributions to clinical trials, prevention and cancer control. Moffitt currently has 14 affiliates in Florida, one in Georgia and two in Puerto Rico. Additionally, Moffitt is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, a prestigious alliance of the country’s leading cancer centers, and is listed in U.S. News & World Report as one of “America’s Best Hospitals” for cancer. Moffitt’s sole mission is to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.

(ORLANDO/FL/SEPTEMBER 2010) – The Florida Nurses Foundation (FNF) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2010 scholarships.  This year, FNF awarded funding for 31 scholarships, over $16,000, to students throughout the state of Florida.  FNF exists to promote nursing and delivery of healthcare through the advancement of research, education and practice. Each year, funds are provided to registered nurses and students for scholarships and research grants.

2010 scholarships recipients are:
Lolita Melhado, from Fort Myers and attending Florida Gulf Coast University, received the Ingeborg Mauksch Scholarship;
Barbara Green, from Cape Canaveral and attending the University of Central Florida, received the District 6 Generic Scholarship;
Sophia Khawly, from Miami and attending the Florida State University, received the Undine Sams and Friends Scholarship;
Leigh Ann Del Rio, from Kissimmee and attending Keiser University, received the District 6 Generic Scholarship;
Christina Amidei, from Orlando and attending the University of Central Florida, received the District 8 Charlotte Anzalone Scholarship;
George Byron Smith, from Tampa and attending the Case Western Reserve University, received the District 4 Florida Nurses Scholarship;
April Hellner, from St. Petersburg and attending St. Petersburg College, received the Ruth Jacobs District 46 Scholarship;
Catrina Quinn, from Indiatlantic City and attending the University of Central Florida, received the District 6 Generic Scholarship;
Snezana Radnovic, from Miami and attending Miami Dade College, received the Agnes Naughton Scholarship;
Lindsay Capito, from Lutz and attending the Florida State University, received the District 6 Generic Scholarship;
Giovanna Craveiro, from Ft. Lauderdale and attending South University, received the Louise Fiske Memorial Scholarship;
Lisa Kern, from Tarpon Springs and attending Walden University, received the Olive Ramsey Memorial Scholarship;
Joann Andrews from Ft. Myers and attending the University of Florida, received the Iona Pettingill Scholarship;
Felusha Denford, from Jacksonville and attending the Jacksonville University, received the District 3 Scholarship;
Stephaney Ayres, from Miami and attending the University of Miami, received the Eleanor Bindrim Scholarship;
Natalie Camara, from Hialeah and attending Broward College, received the Nina Brookins Scholarship;
Delilah Plate, from Holly Hilly and attending Daytona State College, received the Olive Seymour Scholarship;
Amanda Hughes, from Melbourne and attending the University of Central Florida, received the May York Scholarship;
Elisa Rush, from Tallahassee and attending the Florida State University, received the Great 100 Nursing Scholarship
Isis Gonzalez, from Miramar and attending Nova Southeastern University, received the Ruth Finamore Scholarship;
Sadie Abboud, from New Smyrna Beach and attending the Florida State University, received the District 18 Lillian Hulla Friend of Nursing Scholarship;
Jennifer Anderson, from Lauderhill and attending Barry University, received the Charlotte Liddell Scholarship;
Yexica Perez, from Delray Beach and attending the Florida Atlantic University, received the Mary York Scholarship;
Michela Lambert, from Boynton Beach and attending South University, received the Mary York Scholarship;
Sanique Brown, from Miami and attending the Florida Atlantic University, received the Connie Dorry Memorial Scholarship;
Bessy Benjamin, from Naples and attending the Florida International University, received the Mary York Scholarship;
Suraj Wagh, from St. Petersburg and attending the St. Petersburg College, received the Imogene King Scholarship;
Eva-Maria Gonzalez, from Miami and attending the Florida International University, received the Mary York Scholarship;
Cheryl Roche, from Jacksonville and attending the University of Florida, received the Great 100 Nursing Scholarship;
Lisa Sellers, from Vero Beach and attending the Florida Atlantic University, received the Erma B. Kraft Scholarship;
Theresa Owens, from Ocala and attending the University of Central Florida, received the District 3 Scholarship;

FNF was established by members of the Florida Nurses Association (FNA) in 1983.  The FNF focus has evolved over time to include support of nursing education and research and to provide assistance to nurses in need, as well as public policy education.  Funding for FNF initiatives comes from FNA member donations, entrusted FNA member funds and FNF fundraising efforts.

The FNA mission statement is to serve and support all registered nurses through professional development, advocacy, and the promotion of excellence at every level of professional nursing practice.  For more information on FNF or FNA, please visit www.floridanurse.org.

The 186-unit Class “A” luxury apartment community is located approximately 2 miles east of the Mall at Millennia at the Southwest Corner of Americana Boulevard and Rio Grande Avenue South. Completed in 2008, the new construction condominium property has been converted to 100 percent rental residences and is 93 percent occupied.

“DeBartolo Development has now purchased three multi-family communities with more than 930 residences in the Orlando area over the last 8 months,” said Edward Kobel, President and Chief Operating Officer of DeBartolo Development. “We have been extremely successful in negotiating and closing real estate deals in desirable locations across the country, that present attractive growth opportunities in the current economic market.”

The garden-style, multi-family community offers seven three-story buildings with two and three bedrooms with resort-style amenities, custom architecture and elaborate landscaping. Amenities include secured entry, pool, clubhouse, fitness center and business center. With easy access to US 41 and I-4, both commercial corridors, the property is a short drive to tourist destinations, Disney World, Sea World and Universal Studios.

In January, DeBartolo Development acquired Falcon Square Apartments in the affluent Windermere neighborhood and in February closed on Mystic Pointe Apartments in the Lake Buena Vista community. DeBartolo is currently completing a comprehensive renovation of Mystic Pointe.

About DeBartolo Development, LLC
For more than six decades, the DeBartolo name has been an icon in the real estate industry. Founded by legendary entrepreneur Edward J. DeBartolo Sr., DeBartolo pioneered the mall concept and built some of the most well-known shopping meccas in the nation. Led today by Edward J. DeBartolo Jr., former owner of the five-time Super Bowl Champion San Francisco 49ers and two-time Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins, and his brother, Edward Kobel, DeBartolo Development is one of the largest privately held real estate development companies in the country. With years of work in ground-up development, joint venture projects and asset management, DeBartolo Development has extensive experience in a wide range of capabilities. From basic retail centers to the most modern mixed-use environments, to reliable investment opportunities, DeBartolo Development continues the family tradition with a suite of solutions created to meet the unique challenges of today’s market. For more information about DeBartolo Development, please visit our Website at www.debartolodevelopment.com

(Oldsmar, FL – September, 2010)— Heat styling, chemical processing and daily wear and tear can strip hair of vital protein and moisture. To rebuild, hair must be treated from the inside out. Introducing NEW Awapuhi Wild Ginger™, the luxurious answer to indulge and care for dry, damaged hair.

This new eight-product collection by Paul Mitchell, available only in fine salons, features natural Awapuhi extract and an exclusive KeraTriplex™ complex that repairs damage from the core to the cuticle and transforms strands into pillars of style and strength.

According to Mintel International, “93% of consumers describe their hair as dry, damaged or color-treated.” The Awapuhi system is proven to repair this common damage that results from heat styling, chemical processing and aging, replenishing every strand with vital protein and intense moisture.

Experience the Difference – the Awapuhi Advantage:

80%        67%       35%

REDUCES BREAKAGE*               PREVENTS COLOR FADE*               IMPROVES SHINE*

• Professional treatment repairs hair up to 80%
• 100% sulfate-free shampoo with rich, creamy lather
• Modern styling products hydrate and protect
• Ideal for naturally dry, brittle hair; sun-damaged hair; lightened or chemically treated hair

Enjoy an evening of luxurious pampering to be held at [the salon 1.0/Paul Mitchell Focus Salon], [3980 Tampa Rd. ste 102], [Oldsmar, FL], from [6:30pm] to [8:30pm September 30, 2010]. The event will include (cocktails, appetizers, complimentary Awapuhi Wild Ginger treatments, etc.).  To RSVP or for more information, please contact [the salon 1.0] at [813-854-4505].

About Awapuhi Extract

For centuries, Hawaiian natives have used the fragrant juice of the Awapuhi ginger plant to moisturize skin and hair. Captivated by the plant’s healing benefits, Paul Mitchell established a sustainable, solar-powered Awapuhi Farm in Hawaii nearly 30 years ago. Each plant is harvested and processed by hand with special care to preserve its hydrating properties. Our unique extraction method allows the most lipid-rich part of the root to bind to the hair shaft, leaving hair softer and more manageable with intense shine.

About KeraTriplex

Considered the “spine” of the hair shaft, keratin protein is a vital element in strong, healthy hair. Our exclusive KeraTriplex blend is derived from New Zealand sheep’s wool, making it virtually identical to the protein found in human hair. Raised on green pastures without chemicals or antibiotics, our sheep are never harmed during the shearing process. The fleece is specially treated to maintain its reparative properties, creating the most potent blend of keratin proteins in hair care today.

About John Paul Mitchell Systems

John Paul Mitchell Systems®, a top manufacturer of salon-only professional hair care products, has been serving the professional beauty industry for 30 years.  The company currently produces over 100 products (including the brands Paul Mitchell®, Awapuhi Wild Ginger™, Tea Tree, Modern Elixirs®, Paul Mitchell® Pro Tools™, PM SHINES® and Paul Mitchell® the color).  John Paul Mitchell Systems products are sold through distributors within North America to nearly 100,000 hair salons. Internationally, John Paul Mitchell Systems works with distributors in over 80 countries that supply thousands of hair salons.  The company does not test its products on animals nor has it ever tested its products on animals.  In accordance with CEO John Paul DeJoria’s motto, ‘Success unshared is failure,’ John Paul Mitchell Systems has a strong commitment to giving back-supporting a wide range of philanthropic causes both domestically and internationally.

St. Petersburg, FL, August 2010 – The Saint Petersburg Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will be hosting their annual Patriot Day 9-11 Prayer Breakfast on September 11, 2010. Registration starts at 7:45 a.m. and breakfast at 8:00 a.m. at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, 11 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL. The keynote speaker will be US Congressman C.W. “Bill” Young and the guest speaker will be St. Petersburg Mayor Bill Foster. The 9-11 Prayer will be given by VA Bay Pines Chaplain Father Thomas Dieter. International recording artist, Erica DiCeglie will sing the national anthem. Local returning Iraq veterans, Cpl Michael Jernigan, USMC (Ret) and Lt Col Kathy Champion, USA (Ret) will represent “Paws for Patriots”.

Nine years ago, on September 11, 2001 terrorists hijacked four civilian aircrafts which crashed into the twin towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, the Pentagon in Washington DC and into a field in southwestern Pennsylvania. Patriot Day is observed on September 11 as a reminder that over 3,000 lives were lost because of the horrific attacks on our country. Also, we remember and honor those patriots and veterans who have sacrificed so much to protect our freedom.

Please join us for this patriotic event. Breakfast is $30.00 per person, of which $10 will be donated to Paws for Patriots, a service of Southeastern Guide Dogs, located in Palmetto, FL, which provides therapy dogs for disabled veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.
Please make checks payable to the Saint Petersburg Chapter DAR. Your check will be your reservation.

Please contact 727-392-5636 to RSVP or for more information.
Pam Hinds, Vice Regent & Event Coordinator
Saint Petersburg Chapter DAR
6152 115th Place
Seminole FL 33772
(727) 392-5636
phinds@tampabay.rr.com ● www.saintpetersburgdar.com

The Celebration of Courage event will be an unforgettable evening of entertainment and professional networking, bridging together Tampa Bay Professionals in recognition of all our law enforcement professionals who are the Fallen Heroes of our community.  This wonderful event will be held from 5-9p.m. on Wednesday, October 20, 2010 at The DoubleTree Hotel Tampa Westshore.

Tampa Fallen Heroes was created by a small group of Tampa Bay area professionals of which I am one, volunteering 100% to unite our community and its business professionals while also honoring our local fallen heroes. Ticket prices are $35, $100, or $200.  Please go to www.TpaFallenHeroes.org for details about each admission level, and to purchase tickets.

In addition to an evening of entertainment, we also plan a silent auction to help in the process of collecting item(s) for the event, and would like to request your assistance in making the Celebration of Courage event a great success.

Our goal is to raise $55,000 and we’re looking for your help to reach that goal.  Your donation of a silent auction item(s) is tax deductible contribution(s) that will 100% benefit the Tampa Police Memorial Fund.  The donation form is attached.

The Tampa Police Memorial Fund was founded in 1996 and continues to help assist the families of our local heroes whom have dedicated their lives in service of our community.

In return for your donation, we would be more than happy to promote your company by:

·         Listing your company name and URL on the www.TpaFallenHeroes.Org website and on the interactive silent auction page of the website with company information and auction item(s).

·         Donors will be listed on the event program, presentation screen and the item(s) you donate will be on display throughout the event.

·         Based on item(s) value, you will receive complimentary admission(s) to the event and a special “Thank You” package.

If you cannot attend, and do not have an item you could offer for a silent auction, please do help support this effort by making a donation at the website.  Every dollar goes to the Tampa Police Memorial Fund.

This is one event you will not want to miss. We encourage you and your colleagues to attend this fun filled evening for a great cause. Please pass this information along to everyone you know.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.  I sincerely hope I see you there.

Donna Harak
Ph: 813.240.7047

People everywhere are pulling themselves away from their chat boards, dropping their excuses and scratching their interests off of their “someday” lists. Boredom and depression are a thing of the past. It’s time to wake up and live your dreams awake with perfect strangers.

Social networking organizer Debbie Wolford motivates you to get out of your house and office. She brilliantly encourages ‘perfect strangers’ to meet up, create memories and bond uniquely. Debbie shares her own experiences of being lonely, bored and depressed, as well as hesitant to join social networking groups. You will not only relate to her, but you will trust her tips as she takes you along on adventures that most people only dream about.

Debbie delivers a strong message that we allow our dreams and interests to die because we are our own worst enemies. Most of us have put that wine tasting event, fishing trip, cruise, or historical tour on the back burner, because we don’t have anyone else to share the experience with. Some people have been sedentary for so long, they can’t remember what their interests are. Eventually, some of us begin to blame someone else for our boredom, which isn’t healthy for any relationship. When that happens, it’s time to pick ourselves up and fix that problem.

Take your first step, read her tips and RSVP for an event in your local community. You’ll soon find out that something as simple as a Sunday brunch may lead to your first skydiving experience or a hot air balloon ride.

Book Title: Adventure Mantra, Living My Dreams Awake
Author: Debbie Wolford
Order: Can be ordered on Amazon.com or AdventureMantra.com

About the Author:

Debbie Wolford has dedicated her career over the last 30 years to Mortgage Banking, Real Estate, Financial Investments and Global Banking. She consults independently as a Business Analyst under her corporation, D.A. Wolford Inc. Debbie also enjoys marketing and collecting gold and silver coins.

Raised in Falls Church, VA, she moved to Las Vegas, NV in 1990. Currently she lives in the Tampa Bay area where she’s been since 1995. Debbie spends most of her time networking socially, enjoying one new adventure after another. She is also known by her closest friends and family as a patriotic flag waving American.

Follow Debbie on Twitter: AventureMantra

Adventure Group Organizer: http://www.meetup.com/LetsJumpOutOfaPerfectlyGoodAirplaneandMore/

In addition to Extravaganza’s space, this same facility includes a 10,000 sq. ft. rental hospitality suite, called The EPIC Center, complete with stage, sound and dance floor. Extravaganza’s services include many local events that are held in this flexible facility.

According to Paul Thomasson, President of Extravaganza Productions, “The future of meetings and events has changed dramatically over the years and Extravaganza’s team is staying ahead of the curve by offering complete packages, custom created for the specific needs and budget of their clients events, which include unique technical and designer concepts.” Look for their grand opening soon.

For more information, contact Extravaganza: (813) 621-4700; 800-777-0089
www.extravaganzaproductions.com

The remaining home contracts signed during August included eight in Forest Creek, six in River Sound, five in the Country Club at Lakewood Ranch, two in Wisteria Park, and one each in Harborage on Braden River and Mandalay.

With the Treasury rate dipping even further in August, Neal also recognizes optimal timing as a factor in last month’s boom, despite the recent national reports of the decrease in building permits and housing starts. According to the National Association of Realtor’s website, “As of August 20, the rate was 2.62 percent. In July of this year the rate was 3.50 percent, while a year ago the rate was 3.62. The low rate bodes well for the cost of borrowing in other financial markets, and points to continued low mortgage rates.”

“There are buyers in the market that are taking advantage of the record-low interest rates and excellent pricing looking for exceptional value in home buying, despite continued concerns over the climate in the national real estate industry,” said Pat Neal, president of Neal Communities. “Neal Communities is providing that value – along with an exceptional quality – across various price points in our local market.”
Neal Communities is ranked #1 locally by Hanley Wood Market Intelligence based on number of home sales and #126 among home builders nationally in BUILDER Magazine’s 2009 listing based on sales. As the area’s largest and most established locally owned and operated private builder, Neal Communities’ innovative home building, pool construction, development operations and quality customer service standards all contribute to the firm’s continued, record-setting local success. With more than 7,800 homes built in Southwest Florida, Neal Communities’ honors and accolades include 24 Awards 2010 Parade of Homes, 44 Aurora Awards, five Best in American Living Awards and hundreds of local and regional industry awards. For more information, visit nealcommunities.com.

Ms. Bohlander received her undergraduate degree, cum laude, in Business Administration from the University of Florida.  She earned her J.D., cum laude, in 2009 and her LL.M. in Taxation in 2010 from the University of Florida Levin College of Law.  While in law school, she received and Estates and Trusts Practice Certificate, served as the Executive Research Editor for the Journal of Law and Public Policy, and earned Book Awards in Estates and Trusts and Appellate Advocacy.

Founded in 1970, Trenam Kemker ranks among the largest law firms in Florida, with offices in Tampa and St. Petersburg.  Trenam Kemker works nationally with clients in the areas of bankruptcy and creditors rights, business transactions, commercial litigation, construction law and government contracting, employment law, health care, employee benefits, real estate transactions and lending, and wealth planning and preservation.  The firm is committed to the service of its clients, the community and the improvement of the legal profession.  For more information, visit Trenam Kemker online at www.trenam.com.

TAMPA, Fla. (Sept. 2010) – University of South Florida students have spontaneously organized a “Stop Hazing Rally” for Thursday, Sept. 2 beginning at 12:45 p.m. in the Marshall Student Center Plaza in Tampa.

“I couldn’t be more pleased to have students taking a stand against hazing in our fraternity, sorority and university community,” said Patrick Romero-Aldaz, director of the university’s Fraternity & Sorority Life office. “Fraternal values do not embrace the practice of hazing and it’s important that students are willing to act to make sure that this deplorable activity is not welcomed in our chapters at USF.”

The USF Greek community from all councils – the Undergraduate Council (UGC), the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), the Pan-Hellenic Association (PAN) and the Interfraternity Council (IFC) –  has joined forces to send a unified message stating, “…USF Bulls do not support, or condone hazing in any form.”

Members of USF’s fraternities and sororities will be holding posters to make their position against hazing clear and will distribute their national organizations’ and USF’s anti-hazing policies.

According to a statement from Nicole Garcia, a USF Student Government senator from the College of Arts and Sciences, “Greek organizations are on this campus to promote empowerment, leadership, values and lifelong friendships and we continue to serve the community as prominent leaders through the philanthropies, scholarship, and principles our national organizations have set forth.”

Garcia, who is also a member of Delta Tau Lambda Sorority, Inc.’s Epsilon Chapter, added, “This is not being sponsored by any specific entity; rather it is a student led effort to have our voices heard.”

The University of South Florida is one of the nation’s top 63 public research universities and one of only 25 public research universities nationwide with very high research activity that is designated as community engaged by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.  USF was awarded $394.1 million in research contracts and grants in FY 2008/2009. The university offers 232 degree programs at the undergraduate, graduate, specialist and doctoral levels, including the doctor of medicine. The USF System has a $1.8 billion annual budget, an annual economic impact of $3.2 billion, and serves more than 47,000 students on institutions/campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and Lakeland. USF is a member of the Big East Athletic Conference.

Do you know a woman who exemplifies extraordinary civic, professional and/or philanthropic commitment and achievement through gifts of time, talent and treasure, making her community a better place? Is she is a positive role model for girls? Does she demonstrate a commitment to the advocacy of improving the lives of women and/or girls?

Visit www.gswcf.org to download a nomination form; all nominations are due Monday, Nov. 1. Those selected as a 2011 Woman of Distinction will be honored at a luncheon Tuesday, March 22 at A La Carte Pavilion in Tampa.

To be considered, Women of Distinction nominees must live within Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s geographic boundaries (Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sumter counties); nominees are not required to have been Girl Scouts.

The Women of Distinction Selection Committee and Girl Scouts of West Central Florida staff will review the nominations received on or before Nov. 1 and make their decisions.

The tenth annual Women of Distinction luncheon on March 22, 2011 – an event that honors women who have achieved success in their chosen fields and who serve as role models for girls and young women – benefits Girl Scouts of West Central Florida.

Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place. Girl Scouts of West Central Florida serves nearly 24,000 girls in grades K – 12 and 10,000 adult members in Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Marion, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk and Sumter counties. For more information on how to join, volunteer, reconnect or donate to Girl Scouts of West Central Florida, visit www.gswcf.org of call (800) 881-4475.

Hampton brings 23 years of health care experience to Universal, including eight years in the United States Navy as an Independent Duty Hospital Corpsman. Prior to joining Universal, Hampton served as a Senior Management Analyst for the State of Florida, Office of Insurance Regulation, and most recently held the position of Administrator/Statewide Fraud & Abuse Liaison for the Florida Medicaid program in the Office of the Deputy Secretary for Medicaid.

About Universal Health Care
Universal Health Care Group is the parent company of Universal Health Care, Inc., a managed care company that has been providing Medicare Advantage Health Plans to Medicare eligible beneficiaries since 2003 – most notably the “Medicare Masterpiece® Plan” and “Medicare Masterpiece® PPO,” as well as Florida Medicaid benefits through its “Universal U-First®” Plans. The Group is also parent to Universal Health Care Insurance Company, Inc., which offers the popular Medicare Advantage “ANY ANY ANY® Plan.” Currently, the Group is serving over 97,000 individuals located in eleven states (Florida, Arizona, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Nevada, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas, and Utah). For more in-depth information about the Company and the services we offer, please visit our website at www.univhc.com.

In making the announcement, Condello added “I am especially pleased that longtime industry veterans Gary Hamilton and Robert Elliott have recently joined the Randall Mechanical team, serving as Manager and Project Manager, respectively, for our High Purity Piping Business Group. Both are widely respected experts in the high-technology high purity process piping field, and complement Randall Mechanical’s renowned integrated design and 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) leadership.”

Founded in 1986, Altamonte Springs-based Randall Mechanical Inc. currently serves the southeastern U.S. and also operates offices in Melbourne and Tampa, FL. In addition, the company is an active member of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), Associated Builders & Contractors, Inc. (ABC), Associated General Contractors, Inc. (AGC), Central Florida Hotel & Lodging Association (CFHLA), Florida Healthcare Engineering Association (FHEA), and the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). The company is headquartered at 151 Wymore Road, Suite 4100, Altamonte Springs, FL  32714. For more information, visit www.randallmechanical.com.

Private Sector Caution, Plus Local and State Budget Cuts, Overwhelm Benefits of Stimulus, Construction Trade Association Notes in New Analysis of Spending Data Released by Federal Officials Today

Total construction spending declined to a 10-year low of $805 billion in July, as investments in construction projects dropped 1.0 percent from a downwardly revised June total, the Associated General Contractors of America said today in an analysis of new Census Bureau data. Association officials noted that the new figures show depressed private sector activity, and local and state budget cuts are offsetting stimulus-funded construction spending.

“While the stimulus is funding some vital infrastructure projects, the private sector is too cautious and state and local governments are too cash-strapped, to help,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “As a result, overall construction spending is at its lowest level in a decade and hundreds of thousands of construction workers are unemployed.”

Simonson noted that the July total was one-third lower than the high-water mark set in February 2006 and was down by 11 percent in the past 12 months alone. He added that in the past year, all 12 private nonresidential construction categories and 10 of the 14 public categories declined. Private residential spending in July was 5.5 percent higher than a year before but has dropped for three straight months since the homebuyer tax credit expired in April, Simonson continued.

Stimulus funds appear to have buoyed public housing (up 18 percent from July 2009 to July 2010), sewage and waste disposal (up 11 percent), and water supply construction (up 0.7 percent), while reconstruction work around New Orleans helped conservation spending rise 12 percent, Simonson suggested. He added, however, that stimulus spending on highways and other transportation facilities was evidently not enough to offset the downturn in state and local budgets, leading these categories to contract by seven percent and one percent, respectively, from year-earlier levels.

Private nonresidential spending plunged 24 percent from July 2009 to July 2010 with double-digit declines in nearly all categories, Simonson remarked. The economist noted that private power construction reached the highest monthly level this year but manufacturing and developer-financed categories such as office, hotel and retail construction appear to be heading for still less activity.

Stephen Sandherr, chief executive officer of the construction association, said the new spending data and metropolitan area construction employment figures showing construction employment declined in 276 out of 337 metro areas this past year, made it clear that the industry is hurting. He said long-delayed federal legislation to invest in aging public infrastructure would provide a needed boost to the construction industry while making the U.S. more economically competitive. “Letting our roads age, our bridges deteriorate and our ports decline is no way to boost our export capacity,” Sandherr said.

First published in 1983, Best Lawyers® is based on an exhaustive annual peer-review survey. For the new U.S. edition, more than 50 percent of the lawyers listed in Best Lawyers® cast more than 3.1 million votes on the legal abilities of other lawyers in the same and related specialties.

Adams and Reese is a multidisciplinary law firm with offices strategically located throughout the southern United States and Washington, DC.  American Lawyer includes Adams and Reese on its distinguished list of the nation’s top law firms – “The Am Law 200″. The National Law Journal also includes the firm on the “NLJ 250″ list of the nation’s largest law firms.

Vickery states, “My Chinese brush stroke paintings rely upon the use of traditional implements, ink stick, ink stone, oriental color pigments and Zhuan, or rice paper. My painting has been influenced by a long history of art interest which includes the study of Western water colorists to pop art, hard-edge work and collage. This eclectic background has exerted a powerful influence on my current pursuit of the art of Chinese brush painting and the ancient art of calligraphy.”

Please join ComCenter and Renee on Thursday, September 9th from 5-7pm at ComCenter Lakewood Ranch for an artist reception. This will be free to the public and complimentary light hors d’oeuvres and wine will be provided. For more information about Renee, please visit her website at www.ren-ahchineseart.com.

Dr. Campbell received his medical degree from Stanford University School of Medicine in Stanford, CA.  He performed his internship at Stanford University School of Medicine/Kaiser Santa Clara Medical Center in Stanford, CA, as well as his neurology residency and fellowships in critical care and neurocritical care & stroke.  Dr. Campbell’s areas of expertise are in acute neurological care for hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke and neurocritical care.  He is board-certified in neurology.
Dr. Campbell is a member of the American Medical Association, the Polk County Medical Association, the Society of Critical Care Medicine, the Neurocritical Care Society, the Florida Medical Association and the American Heart Association.
Please call 863-680-7300 to schedule an appointment with a Watson Clinic Neurologist, or visit us online at www.WatsonClinic.com for more information.

ABOUT WATSON CLINIC LLP:  As one of the largest medical clinics in the southeast, Watson Clinic provides comprehensive medical services to residents of Lakeland and surrounding communities.  First established in 1941, Watson Clinic has grown to include over 200 board-certified physicians representing 40 medical and surgical specialties.  The Clinic continues the legacy of improving the delivery of health care at the Main Clinic, 1600 Lakeland Hills Boulevard in Lakeland, as well as at 15 other convenient locations in Polk, Pasco and Hillsborough counties. More information is available at:  www.WatsonClinic.com.

LAKELAND, FL (September 2010) – Mayor Gow Fields invites local residents to attend a new grassroots communication program called Mornings with the Mayor. These informal sessions take place over breakfast with the next event on September 14th at the Apostle Henry Ross Family Life Center located at 1302 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue.  The event will start at 7 a.m.

Mayor Fields said, “Accessibility is one of the keys to local government and Mornings with the Mayor provides the opportunity for our citizens to share their views, ask questions and provide feedback on issues that are directly affecting them.” He added, “Our first event was very successful with about 40 residents attending.  This valuable time with residents allows face to face dialogue regarding their concerns on matters that are facing our community.”

Those attending will have to pay for their own breakfast but the Apostle Henry Ross Family Life Center will feature two plated meal choices with a beverage for $7.50. The premise behind the Mornings with the Mayor program is to make elected officials more accessible to residents in the community and to promote one-on-one communications.

This program allows residents an informal and comfortable forum in which to meet with the Mayor to talk about issues, ask questions, voice concerns and offer comments or suggestions.  Mayor Fields said, “It’s also an excellent way for us to gather candid feedback about how people feel things are going in our City; what amenities they particularly enjoy, areas they feel could use improvement, or what they’d like to see in the future.”

With the Global Reach Local Impact project Amanatee Group has built connections in 134 counties and over 3400 global cities.

Wise said, “Having been a member of Sarasota YPG since 2008, I am proud to lead and represent the majority of young professionals who equally believe in the benefits of giving back directly to our community through service and volunteering. As professionals, we are always looking for opportunities to network and grow our relationships, and there is no better way to reach out to one another than by reaching in to our community.”

Incoming YPG Chair Elise Lipoff, MBA, of Willis A. Smith Construction Inc. said, “Courtney was selected due to her dedication to the organization and her vision for continued community outreach. It is people like Courtney that make this organization tick, and her enthusiasm and champion spirit will certainly empower all of us to achieve greatness.”

As a current YPG member and Volunteer Committee member, Wise already has coordinated several volunteer opportunities with local non-profit organizations. As Chair, Wise will be responsible for not only coordinating monthly volunteer opportunities for Sarasota YPG, but she will be an integral part of the Board in its mission “to create a platform for our members to build relationships, develop professionally, become politically and philanthropically active, and contribute to the economic development and high quality living of our community.”

Frank Maggio, the 2010 Young Professional of the Year and YPG Chair-Elect said, “Courtney has already proven that she is a leader within YPG and in our community. Her leadership will help us in recruiting future YPG members, as well as retaining existing members.”

The Volunteer Committee organizes and leads a volunteer team to participate in more than 12 non-profit events throughout the year in the local Sarasota area. The Volunteer Committee meets once a month. All YPG members are welcome and encouraged to attend. Email or call Wise for more information: cwise@takecareadvisor.com (941) 924-3188.

Wise recently was named one of the Gulf Coast Business Review’s 40 Under 40 and also chosen as 2010 Young Professional of the Year finalist at the Frank G. Berlin Small Business Awards. In 2009, she was one of Biz941’s People to Watch.  Wise is a Sarasota native, with a masters in gerontology from the University of Southern California and a marketing degree from the University of Florida. Aside from YPG membership, Wise is a Big Sister in the Big Brother Big Sister program in addition to being a part of the Junior League of Sarasota, where volunteering is a significant part of membership requirements.

Take Care Advisor innovates and leads in geriatric care management services addressing health, independence and peace of mind. We provide guidance with health care coordination, organization of health history, crisis prevention, preventative care, access and knowledge of resources, and RN accompanied doctor’s visits. Helping clients and their families manage the complexities of health care with professional nurse geriatric care managers.

Bradenton, FL – Kevin DiLallo, CEO at Manatee Healthcare Systems was among the first in line to roll up his sleeve and donate blood as Suncoast Communities Blood Bank (SCBB) officially became the sole provider of blood products and blood services to both Manatee Memorial Hospital (MMH) and Lakewood Ranch Medical Center (LRMC).

In addition to providing blood products, SCBB serves as the reference laboratory and provides direct therapeutic patient services for the two Manatee hospitals. “Suncoast Communities Blood Bank has a distinguished reputation for providing outstanding customer service to its hospitals, patients and blood donors,” says Mr. DiLallo. “They have been in the area for over 60 years and we welcome them as a vital partner.”
Dr. Mark J. Magenheim, CEO and Medical Director at SCBB joined Mr. DiLallo at the 7 AM donation to officially kick-off the inaugural blood drive at MMH with 100 staff and community donors anticipated. “Our slogan at SCBB is ‘we can’t operate without you,’” says Dr. Magenheim. “Our blood center is able to save lives because of the thousands of individuals who volunteer to donate blood in service to their neighbors. Blood can only be given as a gift from one human being to another. We look forward to working with the citizens of Manatee County to help serve their hospitals.”
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TAMPA, Fla. (September 2010) – A unique provider of comprehensive trust and investment management services, The Tampa Bay Trust Company today announces the opening of its office located at 5550 W. Executive Drive, Suite 320, Tampa, Florida 33609.   The Tampa Bay Trust Company, a division of The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, is operating under the direction of Terence M. Igo, President, and Donald R. Jowdy, Senior Portfolio Manager.

Founded in 2001, with offices in Sanibel/Captiva, Naples, and now Tampa Bay, the Trust Company manages over $500 million in client assets and provides wealth management to over 200 high net-worth families, foundations, and non-profit organizations.

CEO and Founder, Al Hanser, started the business over 10 years ago, modeling it very much after the family office environment he offered to clients of Resource Trust in Minneapolis – St. Paul, his home before locating to Florida in the 1990’s.  Since then, Hanser has assembled an impressive team of professionals, including Co-Chairman Donald “Chip” Lesch, and President Terry Igo. Lesch served as the Chairman of Indiana Federal Bank and Vice Chairman of Pinnacle Banks of Michigan from 1992 to 1997. It was Lesch who spearheaded the development of the Trust Company’s distinctive approach to wealth management in the early days of the company.  Igo, who has been managing client investment and trust relationships since the Trust Company was founded in 2001 stated, “we have assembled a very experienced staff here in Tampa Bay to complement our existing professionals in our other locations.”

The Trust Company’s professionals include some very highly regarded portfolio managers/analysts in the investment world and an impressive Board of Directors. A key element to the decision to expand to Tampa Bay was the partnership formed with Suncoast Equity Management (SEM) and its founder and president, Don Jowdy. “I first met the Trust Company at the Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting three years ago and our investment philosophy and discipline were one in the same. Modeled after Ben Graham and Warren Buffett’s approach, we want our clients to be owners of great companies at reasonable valuations, not traders of stocks.”

It was Timothy P. Vick, Senior Portfolio Manager, that Don met that day. Besides Tim’s full time duties as a Trust Company analyst, Tim has written many books, including the best seller, How to Pick Stocks like Warren Buffet.  Don Jowdy’s company, SEM, is a Morningstar five-star rated large cap manager and provides the Trust Company with the added dimension of being able to tap SEM’s institution management capabilities for research that benefits its entire client base.

“There are many institutions that ‘manage money’ but very few ‘manage wealth’ quite the way we have over the past decade, states Terence Igo, President of The Tampa Bay Trust Company and The Sanibel Captiva Trust Company, “and we’ve done it mostly through referrals . . . by providing superior service and results. Therefore, you won’t see us advertise much. Instead, we like to allocate those dollars to the non-profit organizations that our clients support.”

Adria D. Starkey, the former president of Wachovia of Southwest Florida, runs the third Trust Company office located in Collier County, the Naples Trust Company. “The Tampa Bay office completes our coverage of the west coast of Florida. We are thrilled to be in Tampa Bay and look forward to offering the same level of high-touch services our clients have come to know,” says Starkey. She has been key to the Trust Company’s success in expanding to Naples and by her development of a very successful program geared toward preparing women to manage the family assets, an often overlooked segment of the investment world.

Mr. Jowdy commented, “I am very proud to be a member of the Sanibel Captiva and Naples Trust Company teams.  Our passionate commitment to providing the highest level of wealth management, investment, and trust-related services to the Tampa Bay area will ultimately result in long-term, multi-generational relationships with our clients.”

About The Tampa Bay Trust Company:
The Tampa Bay Trust Company / Sanibel Captiva Trust Company / Naples Trust Company is a state-chartered independent trust company regulated by the Florida Office of Financial Institutions.  Wealth management services provided by the firm include investment management, trust administration, and financial counseling to individuals, families, businesses, non-profit organizations and endowment funds. Services are best suited for those individuals with $2 million or more to invest.

The Tampa Bay Trust Company wealth management services are absolute-return oriented, performance–driven, and adhere to a strict philosophy and investment process. The Trust Company’s unique Integrated Asset Allocation approach (Growth, Risk Reduction, and Inflation/Currency Protection allows client portfolios to be separately managed and individually tailored to each client’s total return and cash flow requirements.   The firm’s investment management services comply with Florida Prudent Investor Rule (Florida Statutes, Chapter 518.11).

For more information on The Tampa Bay Trust Company, please call 813.915.6202 or visit the firm’s website: www.tampabaytrustcompany.com.

As a premier partner of USF Athletics, the Florida Communications Group (WFLA-TV, The Tampa Tribune and TBO.com) leveraged its exclusive access inside the Bulls organization to create this magazine-style show. Each program will bring viewers “insider-only” storytelling from the team, the coaches and their families.

Show schedule:
Sunday, Sept. 5 @ 11:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Sunday, Sept. 26 @ 11:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Sunday, Oct. 3 @ 6:30 a.m. – 7 a.m.
Sunday, Oct. 10 @ 11:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Sunday, Nov. 7 @ 11:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Sunday, Nov. 21 @ 11:30 a.m. – 12 noon
Sunday, Dec. 5 @ 11:30 a.m. – 12 noon

Running with the Bulls will also air on the new Verizon Fios USF On Demand Channel.  Check local listings for channel location.

About Florida Communications Group
The Florida Communications Group (FCG), owned by Media General, includes newspapers, broadcast television and online operations in West Central Florida. It incorporates Media General’s converged operations in Tampa, including The Tampa Tribune, TBO.com, WFLA-TV (NBC) and CENTRO Tampa, a Spanish-language print and online media operation. Florida Communications Group includes Highlands Today, Hernando Today, 12 weeklies, and several shopper and niche publications.

In his new role, Bishop will rely on more than 20 years of experience to work on some of Wade Trim’s most high profile water resource- and utility-related projects. Specifically, he will serve as Project Manager for the Del Prado Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion project in North Fort Myers, which will begin in August 2010. Bishop will also focus on developing water resources business throughout Florida.

Prior to joining Wade Trim, Bishop was employed by Black & Veatch Corporation as Associate Vice President and Client Executive, where he was responsible for overseeing business development and client services.

Bishop received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from the University of South Florida.

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Established in 1926, Wade Trim provides water/wastewater engineering, civil engineering, urban planning, and transportation services to governmental and private development clients. The company has been ranked by CE Magazine as one of the top design firms in the country.

The new independent locations include:

* PlazaGo just off U.S. 50 in South Hutchinson, Kansas.
* Safeway Travel Center off I-65 in Hope Hull, Ala., just south of Montgomery.
* Ghost Town Fuel Stop & Restaurant on Rt. 20 & 26 in Casper, Wyo.
* Steel City Fuel Center near the junction of I-94 & I-90 (the Indiana Toll Road), in Lake Station, Ind.
* The I-10 Truck Stop off I-10 in Rialto, Ca., just west of San Bernardino.
* Fuel Express just off I-40 in Holbrook, Ariz.

According to Ed Boulis, owner of the I-10 Truck Stop, TRANSFLO Express has been good for his customers and good for business. “A lot of customers come here to use it,” he said.

“I like it,” said Matt Snyder, manager of PlazaGo in South Hutchinson, Kan. “I think it’s going to do great here,”

With TRANSFLO Express, drivers simply hand their documents to a trained cashier for scanning. In seconds, these documents are sent electronically to the fleet for immediate billing and payroll processing. Because TRANSFLO Express expedites document delivery, fleets and drivers get paid faster.

“We welcome our new partners to the TRANSFLO Express network,” said Bob Helms, chairman and CEO of Pegasus TransTech. “We are very pleased that TRANSFLO Express is now available in the unique locations they serve.”

About Pegasus TransTech

Pegasus TransTech Corporation helps transportation companies go paperless, improve operating efficiency, increase profit, and drive consistent, repeatable results by strategically creating images, electronic forms, and Enterprise Workflow Solutions. TRANSFLO Express truck stop scanning from Pegasus TransTech provides same-day access to delivery documents, speeding cash flow and reducing costs.

For additional information, please visit www.pegasustranstech.com or call 800-783-8649 or email info2@PegasusTransTech.com.

The merged Hidden Colony Apartments offers several different floor plans that have
been newly renovated. The new Hidden Colony has 17 one-bedroom units, 116 townhouses, 127 two-bedroom units and 20 three bedroom units. Community amenities include three swimming pools with sun decks, a play ground, a laundry care center and a leasing office. Each apartment includes central heat and air, garbage disposals, new windows, mini blinds, and private balconies and patios. Select apartments offer washer/dryer connections, screened in patios, and private outside storage.
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WRH Realty Services, Inc. is one of the largest full-service real estate investment, property management, construction and consulting firms in the southeast with properties in Florida, Texas, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. The St. Petersburg based company also has regional offices in Jacksonville and Houston. Specializing in multi-family real estate, WRH Realty Services manages a well-diversified portfolio of apartment communities comprised of more than 14,000 units across the southeast. Properties range from A to C conventional properties and also affordable housing comprised of LIHTC, HUD subsidized and bond financed assets. For more information, visit www.wrhrealthy.com

During this special offer, $50 certificates will sell for $25; $25 certificates will sell for $12.50. Discounted dining certificates are available online only at: www.freshoriginals.com. After purchase, the certificates can be printed and used immediately.

“We hope that this deep discount will inspire more people to try restaurants they may not have visited before,” says Angela Rodocker, president of The Sarasota-Manatee Originals.

For a list of member restaurants or for more information about The Sarasota-Manatee Originals, visit www.freshoriginals.com or call: 941-955-3663.

About The Sarasota-Manatee Originals

The Sarasota-Manatee Originals is a not-for-profit organization, founded in 2003, of more than 50 locally owned, independent restaurants in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Member restaurateurs are dedicated to preserving the culinary heritage of the Sun Coast.

“Too much blame is being placed on the kids,” says Anytime Fitness club owner. “Adults need to step up and be better role models if we want our kids to be healthy. That’s what this is all about.”

The campaign will feature an organization called COAK – the Coalition of Angry Kids. The kids are “angry” because adults aren’t doing enough to help children lead healthy lifestyles. (For a preview of the COAK TV commercials, visit www.coak.org.)

The timing of the campaign is no accident. September is the first “National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month.” Anytime Fitness predicts politicians and the media will suggest that kids need to put away their video games and cell phones and get outside and play. They’ll also declare war on school lunches, fast food and vending machines.
“But nobody will be offering any real solutions,” Renee Butz, owner, says. “Somebody needs the courage to stand up and say, ‘The primary reason we have so many overweight kids is because they have poor role models: overweight adults.’”

Recent research is evidence:
“If one parent is obese, there is a 50 percent chance that the children will also be obese. However, when both parents are obese, the children have an 80 percent chance of being obese.” – American Academy of Child & Adolescent Phychiatry.

“The Factor that puts children at greatest risk of being overweight is having obese parents.” -Stanford University of Medicine researchers.

More than two-thirds of states (38 out of 50) now have adult obesity rates above 25 percent. In 1991, no state had an obesity rate above 20 percent.
Anytime Fitness wants to help adults get started on the road to healthy lifestyles. Beginning in September, more than 1,300 participating Anytime Fitness clubs will offer adults free 30-day memberships, free 30-minute personal training sessions and free 30-day access to online support via AnytimeHealth.com – no strings attached. To take advantage of the free 30-30-30 offer, simply stop by Anytime Fitness, located at 4320 SR 64 E (Manatee Ave E) Monday through Friday 11am-7pm or Saturday 10-2.
“It’s our way of saying it’s time to stop blaming the kids, and it’s time to lead by example.”
Fitness and nutritional experts from Anytime Fitness are available for interviews upon request. The official COAK.org website will launch September 1st.

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ABOUT ANYTIME FITNESS
Founded in 2002, Anytime Fitness provides nearly 1,000,000 members with convenient and affordable fitness options at more than 1,300 friendly, well-maintained facilities featuring top-quality exercise equipment. Members who join one Anytime Fitness club can use any of the other clubs at no additional charge. State-of-the-art security and surveillance systems ensure member safety even during unstaffed hours. For more information about Anytime Fitness, or to find the club nearest you, visit www.anytimefitness.com.

ST PETERSBURG, Florida – The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at USF St Petersburg, Pinellas County Economic Development and WorkNet Pinellas are hosting a series of free events for small businesses during the months of August and September.

The fifth of this series will cover certification programs with Alejandro Rodriguez of the Florida Small Business Development Center at USF.  Attendees will learn about the qualifications, applications and the women, minority and service disabled certifications that can provide the opportunity to do business with private sector and governments.  The course is scheduled for Thursday, September 9, from 9am to 11am at the EpiCenter, Room 2-231, 13805 58^th Street North, Largo, Florida 33760.

The event and parking are free.  No reservations required.

184% Growth Earns B2B CFO Spot in the 2010 List of Fastest Growing Companies in America

Phoenix, Ariz. August 2010 — B2B CFO, nation’s largest provider of CFO services to small businesses, has been named to the prestigious Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies in America.

Now in its 29th year, Inc. Magazine’s annual ranking judges US-based and privately held companies by their revenue growth. This year’s list was ranked on the percentage in revenue increase from 2006-2009. B2B CFO’s growth earned 84th place in its industry.

“There are approximately 27 million small businesses in the U.S. today,” said Jerry L. Mills, founder and chief executive officer of B2B CFO, “It is a huge honor to be among the fastest growing and the most successful businesses in the country. Our firm has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years and we are on track to continue expanding. I am especially grateful to all of the firm’s dedicated Partners who continue to advocate our services around the nation.”

In a personalized letter congratulating B2B CFO on this accomplishment, Jane Berenston, editor-in-chief of Inc. Magazine’s wrote “Congratulations: your company, B2B CFO, has made the 2010 list of the fastest growing private companies in America. This achievement puts you in rarefied company, especially if you consider that over 27 million businesses are registered in the USA. The elite group you’ve now joined has, over the years, included companies such as Microsoft, Timberland, Visa, Intuit, Jamba Juice, Oracle, and Zappos.com. I look forward to congratulating you in person in Washington, D.C.”

B2B CFO’s growth is reflected in numerous awards this year. The company was also recently named in ACE Corporate Growth Awards, which recognized the most successful and fastest growing companies in Arizona.

In August 2010, B2B CFO has grown to 170 Partners across 39 states, representing 5,000 years of cumulative experience. Each Partner is a seasoned financial executive who serves as CFO to growing businesses on as-needed basis. Approximately 80% of the Partners have a background that includes senior executive positions at the Big Four, and all of the Partners have held high level executive finance positions in various industries in corporate America. Together, B2B CFO Partners work with more than 500 businesses in the nation with combined annual sales of more than $3 Billion.

Jerry L. Mills and many of the B2B CFO Partners regularly dedicate time to educate business owners on financial matters. Mills is a frequent speaker and contributor and has been featured on many national media networks including FOX Business, Fortune Small Business, Smart Money and many others. Mills is also the author of The Danger Zone – Lost in the Growth Transition, and Avoiding The Danger Zone – Business Illusions, both business non-fiction books that help entrepreneurs understand and build a strong financial strategy.
“We look forward to participating in the Inc. 500|5000 conference in Washington, DC this fall,” added Mills. “Along with my colleagues, I look forward to the October 2nd awards ceremony and to meeting the entrepreneurs that created the other 5000 fastest growing companies in America.”

About Inc. Magazine
Founded in 1979 and acquired in 2005 by Mansueto Ventures LLC, Inc. is the only major business magazine dedicated exclusively to owners and managers of growing private companies that delivers real solutions for todays innovative company builders. Inc. provides hands-on tools and market-tested strategies for managing people, finances, sales, marketing, and technology.
Inc. Magazine’s 29th annual Inc. 5000 ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in the country is available online at www.inc.com/inc5000/list

ABOUT B2B CFO
Headquartered in Phoenix, Ariz., the firm was founded in 1987 by Jerry L. Mills. B2B CFO is the nation’s largest CFO firm serving entrepreneurial, growth and mid-market companies with revenue under $75 million. The firm’s partners have an average of 25 years of experience and each individual partner is a senior level executive with a broad range of expertise. Please visit online at www.b2bcfo.com

Privately held Liberty Group of Companies, a leading developer and operator of limited-service hotels, announced that its brand new La Quinta Inn & Suites hotel in Sebring has won the prestigious 2010 Florida Governor’s Business Diversification Award for exceptional contributions it has made towards statewide economic diversification.

The award recognizes successful job creation and distinctive community involvement and investment efforts throughout Florida. Liberty Group’s second hotel development in Sebring opened in October 2009 under the leadership of General Manager Ms. Sherry Bartley and her team of hospitality professionals. Only 18 businesses statewide were selected for this Award, which will be presented by Governor Charlie Crist to Liberty Group President Punit R. Shah on September 22, 2010 in Tallahassee, Florida and featured in Florida Trend magazine.

“Our decision to develop the La Quinta Inn & Suites in Sebring was based on numerous economic factors that demonstrated the strength of Highlands County and the Sebring market,” said Punit R. Shah, President of Tampa Bay-based developer Liberty Group of Companies. “This hotel, along with our previous Holiday Inn Express hotel development in Sebring, has created new full-time employment to Sebring residents and a strong tax base that will continue to benefit the City for decades.”

As one of the closest hotels to the Sebring International Raceway, the new La Quinta Inn & Suites offers guests pet-friendly three-star accommodations, a heated outdoor pool and spa, lush tropical landscaping, and meeting space for up to 60 persons. Featuring 77-guest rooms and suites, the La Quinta Inn & Suites also provides guests with free high-speed wireless Internet access, free Bright Side breakfast, free local calls, and a state-of-the-art fitness and business center. Luxurious Bright Morning bedding, large bathrooms with wood and chrome elements, and modern bold design tones welcome guests into a crisp setting influenced by Sebring’s rich history and culture. All rooms features 32-inch high-definition flat panel LCD televisions, as well as brightly lit work areas and ergonomic chairs to accommodate business travelers.

Situated near the intersection of US Highway 27 South and US Highway 98, the new 39,000 sq.-ft. property is the second hotel development in Sebring by developer Liberty Group of Companies. With the addition of the new La Quinta Inn & Suites in Sebring, the Liberty Group of Companies has brought over 140 new hotel rooms to Sebring including their 2006 development of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites and Denny’s restaurant on US 27 North. Future development plans for the site also include a similar quick-service restaurant to be located along the frontage of the property.

Enterprise Florida, Inc., responsible for the Governors Business Diversification Award, is a partnership between Florida’s business and government leaders and is the principal economic development organization for the state of Florida. Headquartered in Orlando, Enterprise Florida’s mission is to diversify Florida’s economy and create better-paying jobs for its citizens by supporting, attracting and helping to create businesses in innovative, high-growth industries. In pursuit of its mission, Enterprise Florida works closely with a statewide network of economic development partners and is funded both by the State of Florida and by private-sector businesses.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (Sept. 2010) – Progress Energy Florida has filed requests to lower customers’ bills in 2011. If approved by the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC), these changes would result in an annual savings of nearly $53.00 for residential customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month.

The changes proposed by the company are included in annual filings projecting costs for fuel and purchased power, environmental upgrades and nuclear charges. Based on the current filings, these changes will save a residential household $4.40 per month on a 1,000 kWh bill, or $52.80 over 12 months compared to current bills. The average reduction, if approved, will be up to 3 percent for commercial customers and up to 2 percent for industrial customers.

“Our actions to control costs through effective fuel management and efficient operations are resulting in savings for our customers,” said Vincent Dolan, president and CEO of Progress Energy Florida. “We know the lingering recession has taken a toll on many of our customers, and we’re focused on keeping electricity safe, reliable, environmentally sound and as affordable as possible for the households and businesses that depend on us.”

The cost of fuel and purchased power is down not only due to the company’s diligent cost management strategies but also due to lower commodity prices for coal and natural gas, the company’s two largest fuel sources. Environmental improvements at the company’s two largest coal-fired units, Crystal River 4 and 5, now allow the company to use less expensive coal while reducing the average annual emissions of the plant by over 80 percent (NOx reduced by approximately 93 percent and SO2 by approximately 97 percent). In addition, the decision to postpone major construction activities on the proposed Levy County nuclear project until after the federal licensing is complete has further lowered near-term costs for customers.

Later in September the company will file estimated costs associated with state-mandated energy-efficiency programs. That charge is not yet known as the PSC has not made a final decision on Progress Energy’s required 10-year energy-efficiency plan. Under the company’s plan, Progress Energy would take a gradual approach to meet the PSC-mandated, aggressive 10-year goal. This approach would benefit customers by keeping electric bills lower in 2011. The PSC decision, which has been deferred by the commission until Sept. 14, will determine the company’s final energy-efficiency goals and programs. If the commission mandates a more aggressive implementation model, the increase in energy-efficiency costs are projected to more than offset the savings for customers identified by the company in today’s filings.

“As we did with our base rate settlement and the adjustment to the Levy County nuclear plant schedule made earlier this year, we are working diligently to keep customer bills as stable as possible during these tough economic times,” said Dolan. “Our energy-efficiency proposal would further this goal and help to lessen otherwise substantial increases in customer bills over the next two years.”

The PSC decision on the nuclear charge will be made on Oct.12. The PSC hearings and votes on the fuel, environmental and energy conservation charges will take place Nov. 1 through 3. At that time, the total 2011 customer bill will be finalized, based on the PSC’s decision.

Progress Energy Florida, a subsidiary of Progress Energy (NYSE: PGN), provides electricity and related services to more than 1.6 million customers in Florida. The company is headquartered in St. Petersburg, Fla., and serves a territory encompassing more than 20,000 square miles including the cities of St. Petersburg and Clearwater, as well as the Central Florida area surrounding Orlando. Progress Energy Florida is pursuing a balanced approach to meeting the future energy needs of the region. That balance includes increased energy-efficiency programs, investments in renewable energy technologies and a state-of-the-art electricity system. For more information about Progress Energy, visit www.progress-energy.com.

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Contact: Corporate Communications, (866) 520-NEWS (6397)

The Bogota, Colombia Chamber of Commerce has organized the 5th Annual INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MATCHMAKING that will take place October 21 and 22, 2010 in Bogota, Colombia. Participants (over 140 international executives) will have the opportunity to make commercial contacts by appointment with the registered companies from Bogotá offering their products and services.

“The scheme of business matchmaking is the proven, most effective way to make qualified business and strategic alliances, given that the meetings are set in advance, therefore there is a better chance to match supply and demand” said Steve Toner, Principal of Coastal Strategies, organizer of the event with the Bogota Chamber.

The main business sectors for the INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MATCHMAKING are:
• Articles of leather and footwear
• Crafts
• Textiles
• Clothing
• Metalworking
• Furniture and wood
• Fresh Food
• Construction
• Organic Products
• Advertising services
• Software.

All participating foreign buyers receive at NO COST:
• One roundtrip airline ticket, per registered company. See Policy for plane ticket details.
• One-on-One Business Appointments (up to 28 business appointments).
• 4 Coffee Breaks and 2 Lunch Boxes.

NOT included are hotel accommodations, other meals and taxes.
Logistics must be coordinated by the participant directly.

Participation Requirements of Buyers:
• Sells in your own country for more than 2 years
• Relevant imports from Colombia or similar countries
• More than 2 years of constitution of the company
• To send import invoices to certificate as an international buyer/importer
• To send a copy of your business card
• If you have participated in previous versions, you must demonstrate the business or commercial contacts you made out of the event.

Registration is limited and on a first come basis. Deadline for registration is September 22, 2010.
For more information, please contact Steve Toner, Coastal Strategies, Inc. at
Steve@CoastalStrategies.com, or call (813) 391-0302.

Coastal Strategies, an international business development and investment firm headquartered in Tampa, Florida, since 1988; is on an exclusive contract to promote this program and assist participants in their registration process. We welcome your inquiries and participation.

Coastal Strategies, Inc.
3001 North Rocky Point Drive E., Ste. 200, Tampa, Florida USA 33607 www.CoastalStrategies.com PH (813) 391-0302 FX (813) 882-0022

Tampa, Fla., (Sept. 2010) – Hillsborough County Public Schools (HCPS) Superintendent MaryEllen Elia has been honored as the 2009 CEO of the Year by the Florida Minority Supplier Development Council (FMSDC).

The award was presented during the 27th Annual Business Opportunity Fair & Conference held in Orlando in August and signifies “Outstanding Performance and Dedication” by the district leader.

“It’s a great honor to be recognized for the district’s efforts to put revenue back in the pockets of local small businesses,” said Elia. “Our Office of Supplier Diversity (OSD) and Procurement Department staffs have done a great job increasing minority and small business participation in our purchasing and construction programs.”

Last year FMSDC recognized HCPS as “Corporation of the Year,” acknowledging OSD’s Small Business Encouragement Program’s success at recruiting community-based small businesses for school system contracts. It was the first time that honor had ever been given to a school district.

“The level of involvement of the CEO in HCPS programs involving minority businesses was one of the key things we looked at and evaluated. In Hillsborough County, the CEO involvement was much higher than that of the other companies submitted for consideration,” said FMSDC President Malik Ali. “You have to have a great program but you have to have CEO involvement in order to make that program successful.”

Attending the awards presentation were School Board Chair Susan Valdes, Co-Chair Doretha Edgecomb, Board Member Carol Kurdell, Dr. Carolyn Collins, president of the Hillsborough County chapter of the NAACP, and representatives of the following Tampa Bay-based small businesses: All in One Electric, Inc., Sol Davis Printing, Bay Coffee and Tea Co., Black Rose Communications and Morrison & Associates, Inc.

“The superintendent has long been a champion and a cheerleader who has supported the efforts of the board and the district to provide equity, opportunity, access and partnerships that help small and minority entrepreneurs and business owners,” said Dorotha W. Edgecomb, vice chair of the HCPS School Board.

The annual FMSDC awards recognize efforts to provide business opportunities for Asian, Black, Hispanic and Native American suppliers.

“The leadership of Superintendent Elia, as well as the support and contributions made by the Procurement and Facilities departments, significantly contribute to the success of the Small Business Encouragement Program. Because of these combined efforts, we are able to not only support small businesses and save taxpayer dollars but also benefit the entire school district by building a diverse data base of qualified vendors,” said HCPS Supplier Diversity Officer Henry J. Ballard Jr. “It is a great honor to again be recognized by FMSDC and particularly to have HCPS honored with the first award of this kind ever to be given to a public official.”

ST. PETERSBURG, FL – The University of South Florida St. Petersburg will host a free entrepreneurial networking breakfast on Sept.15.  Speakers Scott Buchanan and Joyce Nelson will discuss critical human resources issues that help businesses go from surviving to thriving on a budget.

Scott is president and CEO of Human Resources, Inc. (HRI), a professional employer organization (PEO) based in St. Petersburg and licensed in multiple states.  HRI is one of only 30 PEOs in the nation and the only PEO in Pinellas County accredited by the Employer Services Assurance Corporation. HRI was recently named the 2010 Outstanding Business of the Year by the St. Petersburg Chamber.

Joyce Nelson is Partner & Vice President Client Services of Advex-Advancing Excellence Inc., a North American Human Resources & Management Development firm based in Tampa.

Bill Jackson, associate dean of the College of Business at USF St. Petersburg and director of the Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Innovation Alliance at USF St. Petersburg, helped organize the breakfast.

“These events offer current and aspiring business owners opportunities for professional development in a comfortable university setting,” Jackson said. “Ninety entrepreneurs participated last month. We look forward to even more participation on Sept. 15.”

The event is open to the public, starts at 8 a.m., and ends at 9:15 a.m.  Registration is open at http://seialliance.eventbrite.com/.

LocalShops1.com is excited to announce its new branch in Gainesville, Florida, and its new Gainesville director, Haydee Santana, formerly of St. Petersburg.

LocalShops1-Gainesville is kicking off with a launch party 6-8 p.m. Sept. 8 at 101 Downtown, 201 SE 2nd Av, Suite 101 in Gainesville. The party will feature raffles, gift bags and a video greeting from Mayor Craig Lowe. Admission is free.

Leading the efforts in Gainesville is Haydee Santana, who has an extensive background in marketing, promotions and event planning.

“We’re thrilled to have Haydee in the LocalShops1 leadership team,” said Ester Venouziou, LocalShops1 founder and president. “Haydee is super-talented and extremely community-minded, making her the perfect fit for LS1.”

Before coming to LocalShops1.com, Santana was a multi-media consultant at Hears in Gainesville, executive director at Florida Association of Community Farmers Markets and executive director at Grand Central District Association in St. Petersburg. She also worked for the St. Petersburg AirFest and Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg. Santana studied fashion marketing at American Intercontinental University.

LocalShops1.com launched in August 2008 in the Tampa Bay area and is already the largest network of local, independent businesses and independent-minded shoppers. The company promotes businesses by combining grassroots efforts, social media and traditional advertising.

For information on the Gainesville branch, please contact Haydee Santana at haydee@LocalShops1.com.

FMMC Executive Briefing: Developing and Launching New Products.  The Florida Medical Manufacturers’ Consortium will present an Executive Briefing on Sept. 21, from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at the Feather Sound Country Club in Clearwater.  Register at http://www.flamedmfg.org/.

Oct. 29, Meet Potential Business Partners as you introduce your company’s products, services and technologies to a powerful audience at the Pinellas Technology Business and Innovation Exchange (PTBIE).  Now in its 4th year, PTBIE annually draws 50 exhibiting and sponsoring companies that directly benefit from exposure to selectively invited business development and supply chain representatives from nearly 25 of our nation’s leading defense firms.  Past attendees have also included senior Department of Defense personnel and Congressional staff.  Visit www.pinellastechnology.com for more information and to register.

Connecting Pinellas County to High Speed Rail: Sept. 13, 8:30 a.m. -11:00 a.m. at the Pinellas Realtor Organization.  Learn about how Pinellas County can most effectively connect with the proposed new High Speed Rail line between Orlando and Tampa.
http://www.calendarwiz.com/calendars/popup.php?op=view&id=32477598&crd=pro&PHPSESSID=3b87d701bd51bb5299cae8098bb6e46f.

4th Annual Business and Education Summit, Sept. 24.  WorkNet Pinellas is hosting this no-cost event to develop and promote partnerships between education and business. Last year, over 200 of Tampa Bay’s top executives and educational minds gathered to discuss the needs of industry and collaborate on ways to further develop and retain a quality workforce.  Details about the event are available by contacting Marilyn Browne at
mbrowne@worknetpinellas.org or (727) 507-4300 ext 2420.

Florida Mezzanine Fund Offers Loan Opportunities for Mid-Market Growth Companies.  $450 million is available to invest up to $30 million per project in Florida-based companies with compelling business models, attractive growth prospects and quality management teams.  Learn more at http://www.floridamezz.com.

Clean Marina and Boatyard Workshop, Sept. 21, 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) will discuss the Action Plans/Boatyards/Retailers program as well as cover National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) issues. Florida Sea Grant Extension Agent in Pinellas County, Heather Hammers, will be giving a presentation on Coastal Sustainability and discuss some of the important issues and pressures that are affecting our coastal systems’ ecology, wildlife, and water quality.  Learn more at
http://pinellas.obsres.com/botanical/Info.aspx?EventID=3006

Making $ense of Green, Sustainable Business Conference and Expo, Oct. 21 – 23.  Businesses, licensed professionals, and municipal and county government managers and staff are invited to participate in this event.  Workshops and presentations will feature the topics of   energy, sustainable building design, water/ waste water, and sustainable practices, policies and regulations. Exhibitors will be invited to demonstrate featured services and products in these same sustainable topic areas.  Visit www.sustainableseminole.com to register and for more information.

International Economic Development Council Real Estate Development and Reuse in Tampa, Nov. 4 – 5. Learn about the various financing tools that are available at the local, regional and state level, including tax increment financing, bond financing, land assembly and brownfield redevelopment.
Details at http://www.iedconline.org/?p=Training_Real_Estate_FL

While we display many shipwreck artifacts in our traveling exhibit and on loan to other museums, we love to share our interesting finds with everyone. We decided to use the power of the internet to help. A virtual museum allows anyone with a computer and internet connection access to our collection from anywhere, at anytime!

We recently completed the first phase of Odyssey’s Virtual Museum, which features over 160 different types of artifacts from the Civil War era shipwreck, the SS Republic. Each artifact is detailed with wealth of background information and captured by vivid imagery. You even have the ability to magnify sections of each artifact photo to see the most delicate details.

We plan to add more shipwrecks and more artifacts over the coming months. We’ll feature stunning artifacts spanning thousand of years of maritime history from the shipwrecks we’ve discovered around the world.

Odyssey’s Virtual Museum can be accessed free of charge here: http://odysseysvirtualmuseum.com Take it for a spin and let us know what you think.

“If your property value has decreased because of the economy, damage from natural disasters, surrounding foreclosures in the neighborhood, your home’s general need for repair or improvement, or if it can be shown that similarly assessed homes in the neighborhood are being charged lower property taxes, a reduction in your property tax may be warranted,” Boss said.

Each year in August, the county property appraiser distributes the Proposed Truth in Millage (TRIM) notice which notifies homeowners of the appraised value of their home and resulting taxes for that year. Homeowners who feel their property taxes are unreasonably high may petition the Value Adjustment Board within 25 days of receiving the notice in most counties. The property appraiser reviews petitions and approves those who qualify. For petitions unresolved by the property appraiser, the Value Adjustment Board will hire a special magistrate to conduct hearings regarding the property’s value.

Homeowners who feel their taxes are too high should start by gathering information about their neighbors’ assessed property values and taxes online at the county appraiser’s website. It is wise to hire an independent property appraiser to assess the value of the home because the county appraiser typically estimates tax value based on the surrounding neighborhood whereas an independent appraiser can account for more discrete but important factors (such as economic downturn, natural disaster damage, sinkhole damage, surrounding foreclosures, Chinese drywall, or other similar factors).

Pursuant to Florida Statutes, the property appraiser is required to consider several factors when estimating property value: 1) the present cash value; 2) the highest and best use of the property; 3) location of the property; 4) quantity or size of the property; 5) condition of the property; 6) the income generated by the property; and 7) the net proceeds from the sale of the property.

If an appraiser determines that property is assessed too high, or it can be shown that the property is comparable to other surrounding properties but taxed at a higher rate, then the property should qualify for a reduction in its taxable value, Boss said.

If you have questions, please contact Yesner & Boss for a free consultation or call  (727) 471-0039 in St. Petersburg, (813) 251-2921 in Tampa, or (941) 362-0050 in Sarasota.

Yesner & Boss also offers the full range of legal practice, including personal injury, insurance claims, civil litigation, bankruptcies, business law, family law, wills, trusts and probate, residential and commercial real estate closings, foreclosure defense and short sales.

This year’s Featured Artist is James Michael Nenmich. Michael presently resides in Indialantic, Florida and has since 1963. Being a longtime Floridian, his local environment and close proximity to the ocean have heavily influenced his unique artistic style. Michael’s work reflects his many travels throughout the world, including but not limited to: Australia, Japan, Indonesia, Mexico and Europe.

Michael was a major influence during the pioneering days of commercial surfboard manufacturing.  In fact, many of his contemporary design techniques are still in use today and are considered “industry standard”.  Having painted over 30,000 surfboards (1975-1992), Michael remains one of the most prolific artists within the surf world.  He was nominated (and remains on the permanent list) in 2006 to the Surfing Hall of Fame, for his contributions to the sport.

Art Harvest admission is free. Parking is $5 at the Park and $3 at the nearby Dunedin High School with an approx. ½ mile walk or free shuttle service to Highlander Park provided by Morton Plant Mease.  There are food and beverage vendors on site, as well as a children’s tent with art projects provided for supervised children.

Sponsors to date include: Publix Super Market Charities, Bright House Networks, St. Petersburg Times, Tampa Bay Magazine. For more information, call the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin’s Headquarters at 727-738-5523.

Celebrating over 60 years in Pinellas County, the Junior League of Clearwater-Dunedin has raised over 1.5 million dollars and contributed more than 1 million volunteer hours to the community. All proceeds from this event are reinvested into the community and have helped fund notable projects such as the Dunedin Fine Arts Center, UPARC Foundation, The Rick Pitino High Point Center, and the F.U.N. Bus, which has provided field trip transportation for over 50,000 area public school children. Currently, the League’s focus is on public awareness and support of the foster care system and the aging out of 13-22 year old children in Pinellas and Pasco Counties.

“It’s a win-win proposition,” states George Ann Bissett, the Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Executive Director.  “This is just an incredible location for our students… and for the community!”

The location Ms. Bissett is talking about is Dunedin’s new Weaver Park, on the waterfront of St. Joseph sound. The building is a 1921 bungalow that DFAC is referring to as it’s “Cottage Campus.”  The new facility which the Kiwanis Club of Dunedin helped prepare, will house the DFAC print studio, stone carving and wood turning as well as plein air drawing and painting programs. “It’s just such a wonderful location for the drawing from nature that happens in plein air classes,” notes Catherine Bergmann, DFAC’s Director of Adult Education.  “Actually, everyone is pretty thrilled to be here right across from the water” she added.

DFAC’s Cottage Campus adds to their Stirling Campus as offsite venues adding much needed classroom space for DFAC’s growing programs.  “We have an ongoing need for space, especially during our expansion/renovation project,” explained Ms. Bissett.

The Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Gladys Douglas School of the Arts is currently registering for Fall classes at ALL of its locations. Instruction is available for both children and adults, with discounted tuition rates for Art Center Members.  Daytime, evening and weekend classes are available as well as one day to week-long workshops in a variety of media. Register now for the Fall I session: September 13^th – October 24^th or Fall II session November 8^th – December 19^th. Please call 727.298.DFAC to register or visit the Dunedin Fine Art Center at 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin, Florida 34698. Class information and registration  is available on the web at: www.dfac.org.

Tracy holds a B.S. in Management from the University of South Florida and an M.B.A. from Nova Southeastern University.  She is a member of KB’s Firm Management and has been with the company for ten years.  This new position will continue the expansion of Tracy’s responsibilities, including but not limited to Human Resources, Benefits, Facilities, Insurance and Risk Management, Practice Growth and Marketing.

“Through Tracy’s tenure, she has shown true professionalism and continued growth within the firm and we are fortunate to have someone of her talent, caliber and leadership skills,” said Rob Lane, Managing Shareholder.

Kerkering, Barberio & Co. is one of the largest independent certified public accounting firms in Southwest Florida and offers a wide range of services to businesses, organizations and individuals. The firm has been serving clients since 1972. Kerkering, Barberio & Co. has two locations; one at 1990 Main Street, Suite 801, Sarasota, FL, and one in Lakewood Ranch at 6320 Venture Drive, Suite 203, Bradenton, FL.

Chicago and Flagstaff, Arizona Lose Most Jobs, While Prince Georges-Calvert-Charles Counties, MD and Eau Claire, Wisconsin Top List of Metro Areas Adding Jobs for the Year

Construction employment declined in 276 out of 337 metropolitan areas between July 2009 and July 2010, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. The employment figures demonstrate the widespread decline in demand for construction services that continues to outpace stimulus-funded work, association officials noted.

“There is no doubt that we have seen an increase in stimulus activity this summer,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Unfortunately, that increase in stimulus activity is largely being overshadowed by continuing declines in overall demand for construction that are likely to persist well into next year.”

Simonson noted that the Chicago-Joliet-Naperville area lost more construction jobs (32,900 jobs, 23 percent) than any other metro area, reflecting a construction strike that has since ended. Flagstaff, Arizona (700 jobs, 32 percent) lost the highest percentage. Other areas experiencing large declines in construction employment included Las Vegas (14,800 jobs, 24 percent); Houston (14,700 jobs, 8 percent); Los Angeles-Long Beach-Glendale (10,700 jobs, 9 percent); and Seattle-Bellevue-Everett (10,400 jobs, 14 percent).

Simonson noted that 31 metro areas added construction jobs over the past 12 months, while another 30 areas experienced no change in construction employment. Calvert-Charles-Prince George’s Counties in Maryland added more construction jobs (2,800, 8 percent) than any other metro area while Eau Claire, Wisconsin added the highest percentage (16 percent, 500 jobs). Other areas adding jobs included Kansas City, Kansas (1,700 jobs, 9 percent); Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (1,500 jobs, 3 percent); Columbus, Ohio (1,000 jobs, 3 percent); and Chattanooga, Tennessee (700 jobs, 8 percent).

The construction economist said the impacts of the stimulus can be seen in the fact that many of the construction employment declines metro areas are experiencing are less severe than even a month ago. The year-over-year construction employment declines in cities like Las Vegas, Houston and Seattle are less severe than the figures recorded in June, Simonson noted. However, he added that too few cities were adding construction jobs to have any widespread impact on construction employment.

“As much as we would hate to see how much worse the construction employment figures would be without the stimulus, the fact is our industry is continuing to suffer even as some areas of the economy have begun to expand,” said Stephen Sandherr, the association’s chief executive officer. “And with regular, long-term infrastructure bills stalled in Congress, it looks like construction workers will have little opportunity to continue rebuilding our economy.”

These TAGs are like barcodes that smartphones can read using an application – or “app” – that users can download for free. Once installed, the TAG Reader app uses the camera in your smartphone to scan a TAG, then it automatically opens a Web page, plays a video, dials a phone number or displays a text message.

Mote is the first attraction on Florida’s Gulf Coast to use this leading-edge TAG technology. TAGs will appear on Mote Aquarium exhibits, our printed materials and in several Sarasota locations starting on Sept. 1 (see photo/video op below).

“We’re excited to offer our visitors a whole new way to engage with Mote’s exhibits and nature,” says Dan Bebak, Vice President of Mote Aquarium.  “Microsoft TAGs give us a new way to educate and entertain people – key parts of Mote’s mission.”

Visitors can scan the tags for tips about upcoming events, discounts, fun facts about our animals, new Mote videos and sneak peeks behind the scenes. “We can change the content associated with a TAG on a moment’s notice, making them very dynamic,” Bebak says.

“The Aquarium is about experience – a place where families come to enjoy themselves, see fascinating creatures and learn,” Bebak says.  At this point, TAGs are in the realm of ‘experience marketing,’ helping us create a richer experience for our visitors, even before they arrive at the Aquarium.”

Mote’s goals include reaching new audiences for Mote Aquarium with TAGs in Sarasota and Manatee counties, providing easy access to additional information about Mote in publications and bringing Mote research findings to life in new ways.

Mote is working with LocalSocial, a social media marketing company, to design its TAG program.

Mote is also part of TagSRQ, an area economic development initiative designed to drive new business via mobile phones.

Smart phone users may download a free reader at www.GetTag.mobi.

About TagSRQ:  “TagSRQ” was introduced in Sarsota by Lakewood Ranch Communities.  The program uses Microsoft’s TAG technology to help drive new business to Sarasota companies via mobile phones.  As more and more people rely on their smart phones to guide them through a city and tell them where to go, TAGS will act as bread crumbs that give them more information about where they are and guide their choices.  TagSRQ creates a “tech” tour of Sarasota, linking the digital world and the physical world (www.tagsrq.com).

Video link to YouTube video about Microsoft TAGs at Mote Aquarium: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8ZTYLri5Fg

Photo / Video op:

Mote Mascot Gilly the Shark will be out “TAGging” on Wednesday, Sept. 1:

9:30 a.m.: Gateway Bank, 1100 S. Tamiami Trail
10 a.m.: He’ll learn how to decorate cupcakes at Cupcakes a Go-Go, 2079 Siesta Drive, Sarasota
10:30 a.m.: Morton’s Gourmet Market, 1924 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota
11:00 a.m.: Whole Foods Market, 1451 1st Street, Sarasota

About Mote:
Founded in 1955, Mote Marine Laboratory is an independent nonprofit marine research organization. We are dedicated to advancing the science of the sea through the study of marine and estuarine ecosystems, through our public Mote Aquarium and through an education division that provides unique programs for all ages. Throughout 2010, we’re celebrating Mote’s 55th Anniversary with special events highlighting our groundbreaking ocean research and outreach. Learn more at www.mote.org.

Grooms has been active in the Manatee Association since 1999, serving as a Director in 2005, 2006, 2007 and held positions on numerous committees.  He also served as the Manatee Association President in 2009.  His other real estate related activities include, REALTOR Political Action Committee (RPAC), Ethics Instructor, and Education trainer for Women’s Council of REALTORS

“Many different messages are surfacing today on the state of the Real Estate market.  There remains a challenge to create a unified and concise message.  Real Estate is the #1 topic in the media right now and Associations will need to play a key role in meeting the challenges to provide relevant information that will add value, such as how home ownership impacts local communities.  This adds value to the REALTOR.” said Mr. Grooms.

You may contact Barry Grooms at 941-920-5757 or email Barry@BarryGrooms.com
Visit his website at www.BarryGrooms.com .

WHAT:                          This month, the Tampa Florida Blue Center invites local residents to its monthly Health Fair on Saturday, September 11th in celebration of National Yoga Month.  Visitors will not only learn about the many health benefits of yoga, but also about numerous ways to bring peace to the mind, body and spirit.

Welcoming members and non-members from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. attendees can receive FREE health screenings including cholesterol and glucose tests (measuring important health indicators, a $95 value); FREE expert one-on-one consultations; FREE relaxing massages; and opportunities to win prizes from Florida Blue.

Visitors can also tour the Tampa Florida Blue Center, a revolutionary customer service experience in health care that lets visitors shop for health insurance, learn about their specific plans, receive preventative care screenings and participate in monthly wellness events.

PHOTO/VIDEO:            Capture Tampa Bay residents learning about the mind, body and spirit as well as the many benefits of yoga during the September Health Fair at the Florida Blue Center.

Interviews are available with Florida Blue Center managers highlighting the Health Fair and the Center’s monthly calendar of events.  Representatives can also outline the features of the new center and what it offers Tampa Bay residents.

WHEN:                         Saturday, September 11th
10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

WHERE:                       The Florida Blue Center
201 N. West Shore Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33609

MEDIA CONTACT:        Shawn Warmstein / 305-444-3383 / Shawn.Warmstein@rbbpr.com

About Florida Blue Centers
An original concept in health care and customer service, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida’s Florida Blue centers are the first interactive environment where consumers can purchase health insurance, have face-to-face consultations concerning their individual policies, receive top-line preventative care health screenings, participate in wellness lectures, and learn about various health care options fit for any budget. Florida Blue Centers are currently open in Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville and Orlando. For more information about the Florida Blue Centers center please visit, www.floridablue.com.

Established in London in 1990 and described by The New York Times as the “gold standard,” Chambers & Partners employs full-time researchers who evaluate lawyers from around the world based on objective, in-depth inquiries with respect to technical legal ability, professional conduct, client service, commercial astuteness, diligence, commitment and other qualities most valued by clients. The lawyers are listed in their respective areas of practice as a resource to corporations and individuals in choosing legal counsel.  Chambers is updated and published annually, with editions tailored for Europe, Asia, Latin America, the UK and the United States.

Icard is a former Chair of the Forum on the Construction Industry of the American Bar Association and is among a small group of lawyers in the state that hold Florida Bar Board Certifications in both Construction Law and Civil Trial Law. He began his practice in Tampa in 1973 after graduating from the Florida State University College of Law.  He joined Icard Merrill as a shareholder in 1995 and focuses his nationally recognized practice on construction related matters, from preparation and review of contract documents to claims negotiation and multiparty litigation.  He is also regularly engaged as a mediator or arbitrator in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) proceedings.  He is a Diplomate of the Florida Academy of Professional Mediators and a by-invitation member of the Florida Circuit-Civil Mediator Society and the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals.

Established in 1953, the 30 lawyers and 60 employees of Icard Merrill maintain offices in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch and Punta Gorda. Icard Merrill is a full-service law firm with a strong commitment to supporting its communities through its patronage of the arts, civic involvement and significant contributions of legal services to the indigent.
For more information, call (941) 366-8100 or visit www.icardmerrill.com.

Tampa, Fla.  – The NoHo Bistro today announced that it has completed a new ownership transition. Chef and The NoHo founder, Jessica Raia-Long, is leaving the Bistro to pursue other opportunities. Co-owner and chef Tina Hurless, is continuing on at the restaurant and will lead kitchen operations and menu development. Tina will be joined by the new co-owner, Tomàs Carrasquillo, who will continue the dining room management as general manager.

“I’m very proud of the reputation The NoHo Bistro has earned as a fun, creative restaurant that offers an excellent meal using fresh, local ingredients,” said Jessica Raia-Long. “I want to thank our loyal guests for nine wonderful years of memories. I’m looking forward to watching The NoHo Bistro continue to grow and succeed under the direction of Tina and Tomàs.”

Tomàs brings 19 years of restaurant industry experience to The NoHo Bistro.  He has served as a sommelier in a part-time capacity for The NoHo for several years. Tomàs is extremely passionate about this business, about providing great service, great food, and matching those culinary delights with eclectic wines and craft beers.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Jessica as we built The NoHo Bistro, and I wish her all the best,” said Hurless. “I’m excited about this new chapter in the restaurant’s history. While we know our guests will miss seeing Jessica, we are dedicated to maintaining the high standards of service and quality food that our guests expect, and they should feel confident that very little will change about The NoHo experience and menu.”

In fact, the new ownership is preparing to launch the fall menu, staying true to the restaurant’s tradition of using fresh ingredients bought locally.  New crops are just being planted at Urban Oasis Farms, a local hydroponic farm providing all-natural pesticide-free produce to Tampa Bay.  As the first harvests become available, The NoHo expects their fall menu to include such fresh harvest-style ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, pears and wild game meats such as duck and venison.

About The NoHo Bistro
The NoHo Bistro is a traditional bistro found off the beaten path in North Hyde Park where guests are invited to “Come, sit, and have something to eat.” This elegantly simple, welcoming approach is reflected in every aspect of The NoHo Bistro. Known for serving up fresh local flavors, this fun, hip, and friendly place prepares simple, yet creative, comfortably delicious food. The NoHo Bistro wins over guests with its atmosphere as much as it does with its menu. The charming dining room has the intimate ambiance of a neighborhood European bistro.  It is a local eatery that serves up extraordinary tastes for lunch and dinner.

Chef and owner Tina Hurless and staff design and prepare a menu that changes with the four seasons to ensure use of the freshest local ingredients.  Rustic salads and sandwiches, homemade soups and stews, and hand-crafted desserts are all served up in a casually elegant atmosphere. General Manager, Tomàs Carrasquillo picks a fine wine and micro brewed craft beer menu designed to complement the menu.  The NoHo Bistro is also committed to giving back to the community it serves, participating in multiple charitable and neighborhood events throughout the year.

For more information, please contact The NoHo Bistro through its Website, www.TheNoHoBistro.com, or call 813-514-0691.

When: September 08, 2010 – 11:30 AM – 01:00 PM
Location: Fete Ballroom at the Polo Grill located in the Lakewood Ranch Main Street Complex (10670 Boardwalk Loop).

Enjoy business networking from 11:30 AM until noon, immediately followed by the luncheon and program.

Space is limited and advance registration and payment are required.
Register online at www.lwrba.org.

Cost LWRBA members – $25.00 per person.
Future-members and guests – $35.00 per person.

For more information, contact Robin Parsons, Business Development Director, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, at (941) 757-1664 or robin@lwrba.org.

Cancellations made after 2 days prior to the event will be invoiced since guarantees have been made on your behalf.

Hip and knee arthritis are among the most common causes of pain in these joints. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative arthritis, is the most common reason for total hip and total knee replacement and is a type of arthritis that is caused by breakdown of cartilage with eventual loss of the cartilage of the joints. Among the over 100 different types of arthritis conditions, osteoarthritis is the most common, affecting over 15 million people in the United States. Before age 45, osteoarthritis occurs more frequently in males. After age 55 years, it occurs more frequently in females. In the United States, all races appear equally affected. Dr. Bennett will be discussing current treatment for hip and knee arthritis.

This presentation is sponsored by Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point and will take place at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, Conference Center, 14000 Fivay Road, in Hudson, on Thursday, September 23 at 3:00PM.

This event is free to the public. Refreshments will be served. Due to limited seating, reservations are required, and can be made by calling (727) 869-5498 or 1-888-741-5119.

About Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point

Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has achieved distinction in the following areas:

• Certified Advanced Heart Failure – Joint Commission (1st in the State of Florida  – 1/2010)
• Certified Advance Primary Stroke Center – Joint Commission
• American Heart Association 2010 Get With the Guidelines Triple Performance Award Winner
  • Gold Award in Coronary Artery Disease
  • Gold Plus Award in Heart Failure
  • Gold Plus Award in Stroke
• American Heart Association’s 2009 Stroke Silver Plus Performance Award Winner (1st in State of Florida)
• Heart & Stroke Champions Award Winner 1998 – 2010
• Wound Care and Accredited Hyperbaric Medicine
• MRI Accredited – American College of Radiology
• Approved, with Commendation, Community Cancer Program – American College of Surgeons.
• Accredited Chest Pain Center, with PCI – Society of Chest Pain Centers.
• Designated a 100 Top Hospital seven years by Thomson Reuters
• Named twice (1999 & 2002) by U.S. News & World Report as one of America’s Best Hospitals in Heart and Heart Surgery.

For additional information on Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point visit www.rmchealth.com or www.heartoftampa.com. Or visit us on Face book

WHAT?
The Hispanic Business Initiative Fund of Florida, Inc. (HBIF) will once again recognize the entrepreneurship and excellence of the year’s most successful local Hispanic entrepreneurs during its annual fundraiser, the Annual Success Stories Luncheon. This year’s theme is Ideas. Growth. Success.

The businesses to be recognized received the assistance from the organization and were selected based on business growth, economic impact and voluntary efforts within the Tampa Bay community.

HBIF is the leading Hispanic economic development nonprofit organization specializing in providing bilingual technical assistance for over 19 years to Hispanic entrepreneurs trying to establish or expand their business in the region.

WHO?
The board of directors of HBIF will join 200 other community members, including a diverse group of entrepreneurs and local and state elected officials, among others.

WHEN?
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

WHERE?
Hyatt Regency Downtown Tampa
Two City Center
Tampa, FL 33602

The 17 recipients receiving pins for donations of 25 to l00 hours of pro bono
service were: Paul D. Beitlich, G. Matthew Brockway, Mark C. Dungan, Michael J. Furen, Arthur D. Ginsburg, Steven R. Greenberg, F. Thomas Hopkins, Thomas F. Icard, Jr,
Robert K. Lincoln, William W. Merrill, III, Troy H. Myers, Jr, Alyssa M. Nohren,
Stephen D. Rees, Jr, Lindsey A. Schneider, Stacy Dillard-Spahn, John J. Waskom and
Richard S. Webb, IV.

“For almost 60 years our firm members have been supporters of providing legal aid and service for our community.  We appreciate the recognition through this award and we will continue to use our expertise to expand our planned pro bono program to assist organizations such as Legal Aid of Manasota.” Said Bob Lyons, president of Icard Merrill.

Established in 1991, Legal Aid of Manasota is a non-profit civil law firm that provides free legal services to low income individuals and families in Sarasota and Manatee counties. The goal is to provide equal access to justice for those who cannot afford to pay an attorney. The firm partners with local lawyers who donate their time and expertise to help. Legal Aid of Manasota also works with community groups and social service agencies to provide up-to-date information about legal issues affecting low income residents. Each month they hold free community education classes such as the Pro Se Divorce Clinic, where participants are taught how to represent themselves in a divorce action and Foreclosure Defense/Attorney Consultations where individuals can meet one on one with an attorney to discuss solutions on how one can save a home. Legal Aid of Manasota supports local non-profit organizations through the Community Counsel Project, where Pro Bono (free) legal assistance is provided to eligible agencies. Through service to indigent clients over $4 million dollars of free legal services and community education classes have been donated.

They have recently launched a pro bono initiative called the “ONE” campaign, a statewide marketing initiative by the Florida Bar Foundation to recruit pro bono attorneys.

Locally, the “ONE” campaign seeks to educate attorneys on the legal needs of the poor in Sarasota and Manatee counties and present them with volunteer opportunities to help in areas such as Bankruptcy, Foreclosure, Domestic Violence, Senior Wills, Housing and more.

Founded in 1953, the law firm of Icard, Merrill, Cullis, Timm, Furen & Ginsburg, P.A., is headquartered in Sarasota, with office locations in Lakewood Ranch and Punta Gorda. Icard Merrill is a full-service firm with more than half a century of legal expertise in business, commercial and construction litigation, personal injury, real estate, land use, family law, probate, and tax and estate planning. Home to 31 lawyers and 70 employees, the firm has a strong commitment to supporting its communities through its patronage of the arts, civic involvement and significant pro bono contributions.

For more information about legal aid, 941-366-0038 or visit:  www.legalaidofmanasota.org.
For more information about ICARD MERRILL, call (941) 366-8100 or visit www.icardmerrill.com.

Led by longtime industry veterans and Co-Managing Partners Randy X. Ferreira, CPM, and Reuven Oded, Tampa-based Blue Rock continues to build its portfolio through strategic acquisition and upgrade of value-added apartment properties having significant upside potential via its proven formula of highly-branded ownership, operation and management delivering exceptional tenant satisfaction and above-market performance results.

In making the announcement, Ferreira and Oded said that Blue Rock will market the community as The Park at Canterbury and will invest an additional $2 million in improvements over the next 12 months. “The upgrades, Oded said, “will include all new landscaping, signage, gated entry system, pool furniture and exterior painting, as well as a new fitness center and business center. Interior upgrades will include new carpet, counters, cabinetry, appliances, lighting fixtures, custom molding and designer paint colors, ceiling fans, and more.” Elaborating, Ferreira added “Our continued investment in Orlando-area apartment communities in 2010 reflects our strong confidence in the region as well as our mission to own, operate, manage and lease apartment home communities in a manner second to none.”

Nationally featured in a full-page article titled “One To Watch” in Multifamily Executive magazine published July 2010, the article showcased Blue Rock as seeing “tremendous opportunity over the next 18-24 months to acquire value-added apartment properties throughout Florida.”  In the article, Ferreira stated, “Florida will be one of the most explosive growth markets in the country for multifamily in the next five years. The state was hit pretty hard by the real estate recession, so the opportunity now for new acquisitions is much greater than in most areas of the country. We want to find properties with existing financing in place and also lender-owned properties willing to hold short-term financing. That has been our biggest strategy and our best success at acquiring new deals.”  Focused on Tampa Bay and Orlando since its founding in 2004, Oded stated in the article, “We thought those two markets were the more stable, prime markets that would continue to have strong overall growth throughout the years and would be void of fluctuations.” Adhering to its “company philosophy of excellence in customer service,” the article cited that “Blue Rock properties boast an average occupancy rate in the mid-90 percent range, whereas its competitors’ properties report occupancy levels in the high-80 percent to low-90 percent range,” according to Ferreira. The company’s staff is highly trained to continuously provide excellent service throughout the lease. That training starts at Blue Rock University, where every team member from leasing agent to porter is trained to provide the best level of service anywhere, according to Ferreira.

In February 2010, Ferreira and Oded were also prominently featured among five top U.S. multifamily owner-operators and management companies in the National Apartment Association’s UNITS magazine in an article titled “What Residents Want: The Thought That Counts.” The four-page article spotlighted Blue Rock’s industry-leading success in tenant retention. “At Blue Rock,” Ferreira stated, “we differentiate our brand through our mission of creating an extraordinary brand image and service culture.” Oded added “Our resident retention program starts the first day of the lease. We are big believers that you can’t just be nice and compassionate and understanding at lease renewal time.” The company’s staff is highly trained to continuously provide excellent service throughout the lease. That training starts at Blue Rock University, where every team member from leasing agent to porter is trained to provide the best level of service anywhere, concluded Oded.

Blue Rock Partners’ headquarters is located at 9260 Bay Plaza Boulevard, Suite 501, Tampa, FL 33619, phone 813-620-0800. Visit the company’s website at www.bluerockpartnersllc.com.

“Attorneys like Reed don’t come along too often and his equal in the southeast would be difficult to find.  His past experience as Legal Counsel of the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has already drawn interest from clients hopeful to gain his unique perspective,” said John Phillips, Practice Coordinator of the firm’s Florida Employment Practice.  “In addition, Reed brings high-level wage and hour class action experience on a national level, which is one of the hottest areas of employment law at the moment.”

Mr. Russell’s practice focuses on large employers in all aspects of wage and hour and employment discrimination law, with an emphasis on complex litigation and strategic advice.  He also regularly provides strategic advice to several large companies in relation to equal employment opportunity issues, including: analyzing planned reductions in force; evaluating employment selection and pay practices through statistical audits; and advising companies on policies for screening and selecting applicants, such as disability leave and background checks.

Prior to joining the Phelps Dunbar, Mr. Russell was a partner at Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP in Washington, D.C., was a senior editor to ABA’s Section of Labor and Employment Law supplement, The Fair Labor Standards Act, and assisted in researching and editing their EEOC Litigation and Charge Resolution (2005).  Most recently, he served as management side co-chair of the chapter on collective actions for the forthcoming second edition of The Fair Labor Standards Act.  He is former legal counsel of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, where he was responsible for developing agency policy on the federal anti-discrimination statutes, and serving as the EEOC Chair’s chief legal advisor.  In addition, Mr. Russell is a former major in the Army National Guard and a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Mr. Russell received his J.D., summa cum laude, from Catholic University of America in 1999, where he was the valedictorian of his class and the managing editor of The Catholic University Law Review.  He received his B.S. in 1991 from Wake Forest University.  Mr. Russell is admitted in the District of Columbia, Florida, U.S. District Court of Maryland, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.

The addition of Mr. Russell brings the total employment practice in Florida to ten attorneys, comprised of four partners, five associates and one special counsel attorney.  Phelps now has 48 total attorneys in the Tampa office.

Phelps Dunbar is a regional law firm of more than 280 attorneys, with offices in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Jackson, Tupelo, and Gulfport, Mississippi; Houston, Texas; Tampa, Florida; Mobile, Alabama and London, England.  Since 2001, the Tampa office has grown from six attorneys to more than 45 that handle a wide variety of legal matters in numerous client service areas.

Staples, clips, etc. DO NOT need to be removed. If you can’t make it on this day you can always bring your documents into us Monday thru Friday from 9 AM – 4 PM for only $4 per box (quantity discounts are available).

We will have snack & drinks as well as plenty of information on breast cancer, recycling, how long you need to keep your documents, etc.

We are located at 4563 Mariotti Court #101 Sarasota, FL. 34233, which is off of McIntosh 2 streets north of Clark. Lanning Tire & ASAP Rental are well-known landmarks on the corner of Mariotti.

For more information, please contact Kathleen at (941) 927-7586, sdshred@yahoo.com or visit our website at www.srqdocumentshredding.com

Adams and Reese Tampa office Partner in Charge Marilyn Mullen Healy was listed in Banking and Finance. Richard Malchon and Geoffrey Young were listed in Banking Law. Donald Mihokovich was named in Commercial Law; Jim Dickson, Environmental Law; and Bob Boos, Numerous Business Litigation Matters.

To compile a list of the top lawyers in the Tampa area, the magazine invited LexisNexis® Martindale-Hubbell®, the legal company that has long set the standard for peer review ratings, to share their list of local lawyers who have reached the highest levels of ethical standards and professional excellence by being rated AV® Preeminent – the highest Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review rating available.

Adams and Reese is a multidisciplinary law firm with offices strategically located throughout the southern United States and Washington, DC.  American Lawyer includes Adams and Reese on its distinguished list of the nation’s top law firms – “The Am Law 200″. The National Law Journal also includes the firm on the “NLJ 250″ list of the nation’s largest law firms.

CEO and Messineo’s co-owner Jim Mason will speak briefly about the concept behind the market and its offerings, and vendors from Roma Foods, Superior Hydroponics, Fresh Point, Melina, Gateau O Chocolat, and Ocean Wine Imports will be on hand to talk informally about their products.

Tickets to Urban Porch Parties are $10 for DNA members and $15 for non-members. At Messineo’s, the price will include two glasses of wine or soda and appetizers, plus samples of prepared foods, baked goods, sliced deli, and cheeses.

Order tickets online at http://www.stpetedna.org/PorchParty.html or contact info@stpetedna.org to reserve a space.

DNA inaugurated the UPP events in 2009 to provide opportunities and interesting places downtown for socializing and networking with neighbors and friends. Events so far have taken place at museums, condominiums, hotels, and restaurants, and now at Messineo’s Gourmet Market.

“Maintaining the Neighborliness of Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida” is DNA’s slogan and a major element in its mission. UPP events help achieve that goal, allowing newcomers to mingle with seasoned residents and everyone to enjoy social networking.

DNA represents the interests of homeowners and residents of downtown St. Petersburg. At the same time downtown is a residential neighborhood with a population of close 5,000, it is also the center for government, cultural institutions, business, and transportation. DNA recognizes a special obligation to work toward keeping downtown as an attractive, safe place and active cultural, educational, business, and social center for all city residents and visitors.

Individual memberships are $15 per year and include one vote on issues at quarterly general membership meetings, four issues of The DNA News, email notices about news and events, and a special membership rate for events, such as the Urban Porch Parties. Household memberships are $20 per year with full membership benefits for two people, plus the ability to purchase tickets for DNA events for family or friends at the reduced membership rate. For more about the Downtown Neighborhood Association, visit www.stpetedna.org

Save the date for the next quarterly general membership meeting: Thursday, October 14, 2010, at Sunshine Center, 330 Fifth Street North, St. Petersburg, beginning at 7 p.m.

Fifth Third Bancorp is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio. As of June 30, 2010, the Company has $112 billion in assets, operates 16 affiliates with 1,309 full-service Banking Centers, including 102 Bank Mart(R) locations open seven days a week inside select grocery stores and 2,362 ATMs in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Florida, Tennessee, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Georgia and North Carolina. Fifth Third operates four main businesses: Commercial Banking, Branch Banking, Consumer Lending, and Investment Advisors. Fifth Third also has a 49% interest in Fifth Third Processing Solutions, LLC. Fifth Third is among the largest money managers in the Midwest and, as of June 30, 2010, had $178 billion in assets under care, of which it managed $24 billion for individuals, corporations and not-for-profit organizations. Investor information and press releases can be viewed at https://www.53.com. Fifth Third’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ(R) National Global Select Market under the symbol “FITB.”

All Florida K-12 teachers presenting valid school identification will receive one free regular-price admission to the Tampa Bay History Center from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month of September.

This month-long opportunity allows educators to explore the History Center and familiarize themselves with the unique historical educational opportunities that are offered.

But teachers will find that the Tampa Bay History Center is more than a mere repository for historical facts. They will follow in the footsteps of the first native inhabitants, Spanish conquistadors, pioneers, sports legends and railroad tycoons. They will also explore exhibits about the places and people who shaped the Tampa Bay area. During their journey, they will stroll through a 1920s-era cigar store, row up the Hillsborough River, ride along with a cattle drive, and learn about the early exploration of Florida in a dramatic theater presentation.

This offer is limited to Florida’s K-12 teachers with valid school identification and excludes support personnel and home school groups. For more information, visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org or contact the History Center’s Curator of Education, Julie Matus, at (813) 675-8981.

About the Tampa Bay History Center
The Tampa Bay History Center includes three floors of permanent and temporary exhibition space focusing on 12,000 years of Florida history. The History Center also features a Museum Store, the Witt Research Center (a branch of the Hillsborough County Public Library System), a map gallery, an event hall and the Columbia Cafe. One of Tampa’s premier cultural venues, the History Center’s hands-on, kid-friendly activities, together with cutting-edge interactive exhibits and theaters provide a unique educational experience. For more information, visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

The Code Enforcement Board appointed and designated by the City Council upon recommendation of the Mayor with the authority and powers described in the City Code of Ordinances, including the authority to hold hearings, make findings of fact, render conclusions of law, issue orders and assess fines against violators of the city codes and ordinances.

Applicants must live in the City limits and have a general interest in the well being and upkeep of the City of Bradenton.

The seven-member board meets at 2:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month in the City Hall Council Chambers, 101 Old Main St. Attendance is important.

This is a volunteer position. Board members are not paid.

Applications, including a resume and cover letter, should be sent to Mayor Wayne Poston, City of Bradenton, 101 Old Main St., Bradenton, FL 34205 or emailed to wayne.poston@cityofbradenton.com.

For more information contact Volker Reiss, Compliance Manager, (941) 932-9402 or volker.reiss@cityofbradenton.com.

Traci-Anne Boyle, president and owner of the Fort Lauderdale-based consulting firm, said Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District VI office selected AirQuest to support its right-of-way expansion projects.

“Airborne asbestos particles are extremely hazardous to individual’s health,” said Boyle, “and the state is taking this action to protect the public’s safety and welfare.”
AirQuest’s two-year contract includes asbestos survey, remediation planning, inspection, abatement oversight, re-inspection and final clearance for roadway projects. FDOT District VI is responsible for planning, designing, building and maintaining all state-owned roadways and bridges in the two counties.
AirQuest personnel have conducted hundreds of asbestos surveys and designed and managed numerous abatement projects. The firm’s asbestos personnel are certified under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and Title II/Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA).

AirQuest Environmental Incorporated is dedicated to providing professional, cost-effective and confidential environmental and industrial hygiene consulting services. Founded in 2002, the Fort Lauderdale company assists clients in managing environmental concerns in a practical manner, while protecting human health and the environment. For more information: www.airquestinc.com.

Ellen Teeter, AP, DOM is a State of Fl Board certified Acupuncture Physician and Oriental Medicine practitioner at Alternative Therapy in Bradenton Florida.  She specializes in treating Internal Medicine conditions and Pain Relief.  She currently serves on the FSOMA Board of Directors as Secretary and it was announced at the conference that she is a vetted candidate for Vice President in the upcoming elections.  In addition to her duties as Secretary she chairs the Publication Committee and edits the FSOMA Journal for the organization.

The keynote speaker at the conference was Florida House of Representative Peter Nehr who shared a powerful story of how Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine restored his health and vitality.

[ST. PETERSBURG, FL, August 2010] – In “What Is the What: The Autobiography of Valentino Achak Deng,” bestselling author Dave Eggers describes the odyssey of Valentino Achak Deng, one of the “Lost Boys” of Sudan, as he journeys from southern Sudan to a temporary shelter in Ethiopia, to a refugee camp in Kenya, and finally, to Atlanta. The public is invited to join Eggers and Deng for “What Is the What: An Evening with Valentino Achak Deng and Dave Eggers” on Thursday, September 9, at 7:30 p.m. in McArthur Gymnasium at Eckerd College. This event is part of Eckerd’s yearlong initiative, “The Plight and Promise of Africa” (www.eckerd.edu/africa).

TICKET & EVENT INFORMATION
This event is free, open to the public and will have general seating. Pick up tickets in Eckerd’s Upham Administration Building (4200 54th Avenue South, St. Petersburg) starting WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1. Tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations will be accepted. Hours of pick-up will be 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Eckerd will be open on Labor Day. Parking at Eckerd is free. Doors for the event will open at 6:30pm. For more information, call 727-864-7979 or e-mail events@eckerd.edu.

St. Petersburg Times book editor Colette Bancroft will lead a Q&A with the audience and both Eggers and Deng will sign books after the program.

To prepare for Dave and Valentino’s visit, click here to read “What Is the What” study guide questions prepared by Eckerd Professor of Political Science and Africa Initiative co-chair William F. Felice: http://www.eckerd.edu/admissions/newstudents/studyguide.php.

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ABOUT VALENTINO ACHAK DENG & DAVE EGGERS
http://valentinoachakdeng.org/founders_and_staff.php

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ABOUT VALENTINO ACHAK DENG
Valentino Achak Deng was born in Southern Sudan, in the village of Marial Bai. He fled Sudan in the late 1980′s during civil war, when his village was destroyed by murahaleen – the same type of militia that currently terrorize Darfur. Deng spent nine years in Ethiopian and Kenyan refugee camps, where he worked for the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) as a social advocate and reproductive health educator. In 2001 he resettled to Atlanta. Deng has toured the country speaking about his life in Sudan, his experience as a refugee, and his collaboration with author Dave Eggers on “What Is the What,” the novelized version of Deng’s life story. As a leader in the Sudanese diaspora, Deng advocates for the universal right to education and the freedom of his people in Sudan.

Deng visited the Tampa Bay area in November 2009 when he spoke at the University of Tampa.

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ABOUT DAVE EGGERS
In addition to “What Is the What,” Dave Eggers has authored several books, including, “A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius,” “You Shall Know Our Velocity!,” and, most recently, “Zeitoun,” a nonfiction account of a Syrian-American immigrant and his experience during Hurricane Katrina. Eggers wrote the screenplay for the films, “Where the Wild Things Are” and “Away We Go.”

Eggers is the founder and editor of the independent publishing house McSweeney’s and co-founder of 826 Valencia, a nonprofit writing and tutoring center for youth in the Mission District of San Francisco. Sister 826 centers have since opened in Chicago, Los Angeles, Brooklyn, Ann Arbor, Seattle, and Boston. While at the University of California-Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism, he co-founded Voice of Witness, a series of books using oral history to draw attention to human rights crises around the world.

In July 2010, The New York Times published “In Sudan, War Is Around the Corner,” an op-ed co-written by Eggers and Enough Project co-founder and Eckerd’s spring 2010 Visiting Scholar-in-Residence John Prendergast: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/13/opinion/13eggers.html?_r=1.

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ABOUT WHAT IS THE WHAT
“What Is the What,” a finalist for the 2006 National Book Critics Circle Award and winner of France’s Prix Medici, was assigned as a summer 2010 reading to Eckerd’s 500 incoming first-year students and incorporated into the Western Heritage in a Global Context course. Eggers and Deng will speak to the Western Heritage classes on Sept. 10. Eggers and Deng’s visit is made possible in part by the Florida Presbyterian College/Eckerd College Class of 1968 Endowed Western Heritage in a Global Context Distinguished Visiting Professor Program.

Following the publication of “What Is the What,” Deng and Eggers established the Valentino Achak Deng Foundation (http://valentinoachakdeng.org/) in 2006 to help rebuild Sudanese communities by increasing access to educational opportunities. The Foundation’s first major project, the 15-classroom Marial Bai Secondary School, opened in May 2009 in Valentino’s hometown as the first high school in the entire region.

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ABOUT ECKERD COLLEGE, http://www.eckerd.edu
Located in St. Petersburg, Florida, Eckerd College was founded in 1958 as a private, coeducational college of liberal arts and sciences related by covenant to the Presbyterian Church (USA). Eckerd’s 1,840 residential students from 45 states and 35 countries choose among thirty-eight majors leading to a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree. In addition, 1,000 students are enrolled in the Program for Experienced Learners, a bachelor’s degree program for adult learners. Eckerd’s Leadership Development Institute executive education program, Academy of Senior Professionals at Eckerd College (ASPEC), Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and Exploritas identify the college as a national leader of innovative programs in continuing education and lifelong learning. A Phi Beta Kappa institution, Eckerd is one of only 40 schools listed in Loren Pope’s “Colleges That Change Lives.”

Participants in the session will be given the opportunity to meet with the nationally recognized faculty in the College of Business along with Academic Advisors to learn more about the program.  The College of Business at USF Sarasota-Manatee is AACSB accredited.  A light snack will be served during the session.

For more information on participating in this information session, please contact Aaron Reecher at areecher@sar.usf.edu or 941.359.4333.
USF Sarasota-Manatee is a comprehensive university for those interested in pursuing a baccalaureate or master’s degree, professional certification, or continuing education credit.  USFSM offers the prestige of a nationally ranked research university with the convenience of a hometown university, including classes in south Sarasota County.
–USFSM–

Each Fireball Run team represents a missing child and the Slicks Garage’s designated missing child is from just down the road in Ellenton, FL. Their mission; distribute 1000 posters over the 18 city, 3500mile adventure in an effort to aid in the recovery of Alexander Matthew Erb-Sanchez who has been missing since November 2008. The Fireball Run distributes nearly 75,000 posters which to date has aided in the recovery effort of an unprecedented 32 missing children.

Garage owner Slick and his team is building a completely custom street rod especially for the race. The vehicle, called “The Ultra”, is an exclusive body design owned Slicks Garage, inspired by the 1932 Ford Roadster. The custom specifications of the car include a low VOC hand built fiberglass body, a high grade digitally printed custom leather interior with heated seats, LED mood lighting and hand molded console, housing the latest in digital technology. The LS engine originally from a Hummer has been reengineered to create 1000 plus horsepower thanks to a Vortech ys-1 supercharger, yet with the addition of a water based Hydrogen Booster system the goal is for the car to achieve in excess of 55mpg. In a nod to Sammy Hagar and the original Cannonball Run movie (produced in protest to the introduction of the 55mph speed limit) Slicks Garage will be promoting “I can drive 55……MPG”.

In addition to their car the Slicks Garage Team are also completing a full restoration of a 1959 Thunderbird for the Tail Fins and Chrome crew team who will be competing alongside them in the race and filming the whole adventure for the TV show.
The race which is best described as the Amazing Race meets the Cannonball Run attracts teams from across the nation and this year features celebrity driver Valentino Balboni of Lamborghini, Marc Klaas of CNN and the executives of General Motors to name just a few. The race receives extensive media coverage which helps promote awareness of the cause of missing children.

For more details on the race and the Klaas Foundation please see www.fireballrun.com. If you are interested in supporting your local team through advertising on the car please call Slick at Slicks Garage on 941-776-7298.

James C. Moler, CCIM and Paula Buffa, CCIM senior vice presidents in the Office Group at Grubb & Ellis|Commercial Florida, and associate Maria Camarinos Hall negotiated the transaction representing the landlord, EJB Fairways, LLC based in Seminole, Fla.

Family Care at Bardmoor, an affiliate of HCA Healthcare, leased suite 101 with 4,783 square feet at the center located at 8200 Bryan Dairy Rd.  The tenant formerly leased 1,880 square feet at the property and will more than double its occupancy upon relocating to the new space in early October.

With the additional space Family Care at Bardmoor can introduce more primary care physicians, expand their existing clinical services and bringing in-house more tests and equipment for their patients. Family Care at Bardmoor is a teaching practice and has a rotation of eleven physicians fulfilling their residency requirements. This provides the patients of Family Care at Bardmoor a host of physicians to choose from and more time to spend with their physicians. The additional space and updated floor plan will allow the practice to be more efficient; reducing wait times and allowing the practice to accept more new patients.

About Family Care at Bardmoor
Family Care at Bardmoor has three full time board certified family physicians. Family Care at Bardmoor is a residency practice for St Petersburg General Hospital. The current class of osteopathic physicians focusing on primary care consists of eleven total physicians; seven female physicians and 4 male physicians. Dr Robert Beamer is the residency clinic director and attending physician. Dr Beamer attended Ohio State University, where he received a degree in Microbiology. He attended medical school at the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kirksville, Missouri then completed his internship at Doctors Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. He is Board Certified in Family Practice and is Certified, Special Recognition, in Geriatrics. After spending his first years in medicine as an Army physician, Dr. Beamer came to practice medicine in Pinellas County. Dr. Beamer currently holds positions such as Residency Clinic Director and Physician Advisor on the Utilization Management Committee for St. Petersburg General Hospital. He is a proud member of the Medical Staff at St. Petersburg General Hospital, Northside Hospital and Largo Medical Center.

About HCA
HCA is a leading hospital provider with more than 160 hospitals and over 100 surgery centers in 20 states and the U.K. The company maintains an unwavering focus on patients and clinical outcomes, investing extensively in quality initiatives. HCA is among the highest performing health systems in the country on CMS core measures, and the company has received national recognition for its efforts to prevent healthcare-acquired infections.

About Grubb & Ellis|Commercial Florida:
Grubb & Ellis|Commercial Florida is an affiliated commercial real estate services firm specializing in the leasing and sale of office, industrial, retail, land and investment properties.  Currently Grubb & Ellis|Commercial Florida has 45 brokers divided among its Tampa, Orlando and Melbourne offices to serve the entire mid-Florida marketplace.

About Grubb & Ellis Company:
Grubb & Ellis Company (NYSE:GBE) is one of the largest and most respected commercial real estate services and investment companies in the world. Our 6,500 professionals in more than 100 company owned and affiliate offices draw from a unique platform of real estate services, practice groups and investment products to deliver comprehensive, integrated solutions to real estate owners, tenants and investors. The firm’s transaction, management, consulting and investment services are supported by highly regarded proprietary market research and extensive local expertise. Through its investment subsidiaries, the company is a leading sponsor of real estate investment programs that provide individuals and institutions the opportunity to invest in a broad range of real estate investment vehicles, including public non-traded real estate investment trusts (REITs), mutual funds and other real estate investment funds. For more information, visit www.grubb-ellis.com.

On Wednesday evening, September 15, Elizalde will be the guest speaker at the AAII Central Florida Chapter meeting in Winter Park, Florida, covering the topic of “What an Investor Needs to Know about ETFs.”

On September 16, Elizalde will speak at two meetings of the AAII Southwest Florida Chapter about the “Advantages and Pitfalls of Investing through ETFs” — first, during an afternoon meeting in Sarasota; second, at an evening presentation in Venice.  And on September 21, Elizalde will discuss the same topic at a meeting of the AAII West Florida Chapter in St. Petersburg.

Question and answer periods will follow all discussions.  These AAII events are open to the public; to learn more or obtain registration information, visit www.pathfinancial.net.  To learn more about the AAII, visit www.aaii.com.

About Raul Elizalde

Raul Elizalde has advised portfolio managers across the US and throughout the world, and made presentations to the World Bank, the Council of Foreign Relations, and other organizations throughout his career. His career on Wall Street in New York City spans positions as Global Fixed Income and Quantitative Strategist for ING Barings; Head of Research at Santander Investment Securities; and Fixed Income Strategist for Banc of America Securities.  Elizalde settled with his family in Sarasota, Florida, in 2002. He worked as Chief Compliance Officer for a Sarasota-based broker dealer for five years before founding Path Financial, LLC, a Florida Registered Investment Advisory Firm, in 2008.  For more information, visit www.pathfinancial.net.

“We are incredibly humbled to be recognized with this honor,” Carlson stated from the podium.  “South Florida architecture enjoys an enviable reputation and the caliber of competition this year was considerable.”

Celebrating its 3rd year recognizing and honoring outstanding projects, inspirational businesses, dedicated individuals and chapter members who are LEEDing the way to a more sustainable built environment in South Florida, this year’s GALA Verde was a veritable “who’s who” in green building design and construction throughout South Florida. Eligible entries had to be located in one of the following counties:  Indian River, Okeechobee, St. Lucie, Martin, Palm Beach, Broward, Miami-Dade or Monroe.

Judges evaluated nominees on their demonstration of a holistic approach toward integrating green building and sustainable practices and principles into the design, execution and operation of their project, business or individual leadership efforts as well as the development of innovative solutions to regional challenges.

The HGTV 2009 Green Home is located in the planned community of Tradition in Port St. Lucie on Florida’s southeast Treasure Coast.  The home is LEED Platinum Certified by the US Green Building Council.  It is a 2,430-square-foot contemporary home that incorporates traditional design elements. In addition to Architect Michael Carlson, members of the design/build project team were HGTV Dream Home Planner Manager Jack Thomasson along with Interior Designer Linda Woodrum, Tradition President Wes McCurry, Contractor Leon Camarda and Landscape Architect Scott Davidson.

The four bedroom-three bath home features construction and design elements that are known to contribute to an energy-efficient, cleaner and even healthier living environment.  Sustainable features for the home began by orienting the building to maximize north / south exposures for optimum shading and protect interiors from sun exposure.  Natural day light is captured throughout the house with distinctive clerestory windows above the main open living area and solar tube skylights in the hallway and kitchen.  The changing daylight in the house also creates a sense of time and connection to nature.

Modern roofing technologies such as high solar reflecting materials and a roof garden create a cool, comfortable patio space.  Even though the metal roof appears dark in color with its terracotta red finish, is actually made of a highly reflective material that prevents unwanted heat gain. Solar photo voltaic (PV) cells are discreetly and ingeniously installed above the breezeway connecting the garage to the home.  The cells use renewable energy (solar power) to lower electricity use.

A highly insulated, solid concrete wall system known as Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs) offers unparalleled storm protection and energy savings.  Water saving plumbing fixtures and rainwater collection for irrigation reduce the house’s water demands.  Healthy materials, furnishings and finishes were liberally incorporated throughout the home’s interior to provide superior indoor air quality.  Many materials also have recycled content.  The concrete foundation and glass tiles in the bathrooms are some examples of this.

LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is the USGBC’s standardized 3rd party verification system, administered by the Green Building Certification Institute, for certifying the world’s greenest, energy efficient and high performance buildings.

For more information about the project, visit http://www.carlsonstudio.org/projects/—public/hgtv-2009-green-home.

About the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
The U.S. Green Building Council is a nonprofit organization working to transform the way buildings and communities are designed, built, and operated. Founded in 1993, the Council now comprises more than 18,000 member organizations representing every sector of the building industry and a network of 78 local chapters. Visit www.usgbc.org to learn more.

Currently, 25 out of the 59 existing businesses in Anna Maria are members of NEMO with more expected to join.

To accomplish this, NEMO is planning several events to bridge the gap between the two entities and to let the community know that the businesses of Anna Maria are there to support their citizens. To show that Anna Maria City was in the holiday spirit, the merchants lined Gulf Drive and Pine Avenue with American flags, welcoming locals and visitors.

A cleanup effort took place on July 5th. After a weekend of holiday visitors and enthusiasts, NEMO forces went to work all along the beaches, shorelines and streets to clean up any trash that was the result of the holiday weekend.  Sporting NEMO AT WORK t-shirts, approximately 30 volunteers collected over 50 full bags of trash.

NEMO plans to continue with several upcoming events including participating in the October 29 Anna Maria Island Chamber of Commerce’s Trail of Treats. Anna Maria City businesses will be open until 7:00 pm handing out candy to trick or treaters.

Through their membership and fundraising efforts, NEMO will also be helping to raise funds for the Pier Centennial banners that will be displayed throughout the city.

NEMO President Barbara Sato states, “I’m excited to connect the businesses with the citizens of Anna Maria for the betterment of both.”

For more information on NEMO contact Barbara Sato at Barbara@satorealestate.com.
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Ana Rabelo Wallrapp, AIA, IIDA, president of Wallrapp Architecture and Interior Design, teamed with Cormac Phalen and Anthony Vallee of pv+r, to design the nature-based educational center.

The building was designed to meet the USGBC’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Standards and has been certified LEED Silver.

The Annual Award recognizes architectural design excellence by local architects within the Tampa Bay region and is widely acknowledged as among the most prestigious in the region.

About the Biophilia Center:
Developed by local conservationist, M.C. Davis on his 48,000-acre conservation land named Nokuse Plantation, the 25,500 square foot center caters to students with curriculums that offer a better understanding of the environment. The Center serves to educate on the importance of biodiversity, ecosystems and encourages conservation, preservation and restoration of our natural resources. The Center was named after Dr. E.O. Wilson, Pellegrino University Professor Emeritus and Honorary Curator in Entomology at Harvard University. The two-time Pulitzer prize-winner developed the phrase, “biophilia – the connections that human beings subconsciously seek with the rest of life.”

Receipt of this award exemplifies what students, educators, and conservationists have to say about their unique learning and teaching experiences at the Center.  Charles Pattison, President of 1000 Friends of Florida said about a recent visit “What a magnificent facility! You have created a shining example for the kind of setting that promotes the learning experience for which E.O. Wilson has dedicated his life.”  Photos of the facility are available at www.eowilsoncenter.org.

About Wallrapp Architecture and Interior Design:
Wallrapp Architecture and Interior Design was founded in 2006 by Ana Rabelo Wallrapp, AIA, IIDA, who has a 30 year history of providing architecture and interior design services to commercial clients throughout the U.S., Central and South America.  Projects include the recent renovations to Tropicana Field, and offices for MasterCard International and IBM.  A graduate of the University of Florida, she currently serves as President of the Board for Ronald MacDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay and is on the Board for the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce.
www.waidesign.net

Mr. Glisson brings to HomeBanc 19 years of mortgage banking experience.  He has a Master’s degree from the University of West Florida and a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State University.  Mr.Glisson can be reached at (813) 315-2982 or guy.glisson@homebanc.com.

HomeBanc is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tampa-based HomeBancorp, Inc., with seven retail offices in Lake Mary, Lakewood Ranch (Sarasota), Belleair Bluffs, Countryside (Clearwater) and in Tampa at Rocky Point, on Dale Mabry at I-275 and in Westchase.  HomeBanc also operates seven loan-production offices in Tampa, Belleair Bluffs, Lake Mary, Brandon, Lakeland, Gainesville and Bonita Springs.

HomeBanc offers an array of retail-deposit products, along with SBA loans, special lower-rate FHA loans for first-time buyers and residential mortgage loans.  The company has grown to more than $300 million in assets since its inception in 2007, and is committed to exceeding customer-service expectations and making the company a Great Place to Work® and a Great Place to Bank.  The corporate headquarters of HomeBancorp is located on the 41st floor of the Bank of America Plaza building at 101 E. Kennedy Blvd. in downtown Tampa. More information on HomeBanc can be found at www.HomeBanc.com.

SARASOTA, Fl August 2010– The Sarasota Seminole Club kicks off the 2010 Florida State University football season opener, against Samford University this Saturday, September 4th in Tallahassee, Fl. Local Seminole Club members, alumni and fans will have their first game watching event this Saturday at Gecko’s Palmer Crossing located at Clark Road and Honore Avenue. The game begins at 12 noon.

The Sarasota Seminole Club recently awarded 3 scholarships to local students enrolled at Florida State University. Students selected were Amanda Barone, PineView;
Maureik Robison, Booker High School; and Kristen Titus, Venice High School.

Warchant.com’s Gene Williams was the special guest speaker at the Sarasota Seminole Club’s Fall Kickoff held on Monday, August 16th, 2010. The Sarasota Yacht Club welcomed over 150 alumni and fans.

All profits from memberships, raffles, and donations benefit the Sarasota Seminole Club’s local scholarship fund. For more information on memberships and events, please visit www.SarasotaSeminoleClub.com.

The six-person delegation will arrive in New York City on Monday, Sept. 6, ahead of a three-day visit of five U.S. cities representing the 18 candidate host cities of the United States bid – New York/New Jersey, Washington, D.C., Miami, Dallas and Houston.  During this important tour, the FIFA Inspection Delegation will have the opportunity to experience firsthand some of the U.S. bid’s proposed stadiums, training sites, FIFA Fan Fest venues, transportation, hotels, media facilities and much more.

“On behalf of our cities and people, the USA Bid Committee is honored to welcome the FIFA Delegation to the United States,” said Sunil Gulati, president of U.S. Soccer and chairman of USA Bid Committee.  “Our respect for the importance of this visit is matched only by our passion for the game and our commitment to deliver a bid that will be considered worthy of hosting the FIFA World CupTM in 2018 or 2022.  To the FIFA Family and the global soccer community, we pledge and promise our very best and look forward to sharing our vision with the FIFA Delegation throughout the tour next week.”

Gulati and the USA Bid Committee will host the FIFA Inspection Delegation led by Harold Mayne-Nicholls, the president of the Chile Football Association.  The FIFA Delegation also includes: Dr. Danny Jordaan, CEO of the 2010 FIFA World CupTM local organizing committee in South Africa; Jürgen Müller, FIFA Head of Event Management; Wolfgang Eichler, FIFA Media Officer; David Fowler, FIFA Marketing; and Julio Avellar, FIFA Competitions.

Representatives of all 18 United States candidate host cities, including a seven-person delegation from Tampa Bay, will be among the first people to greet the FIFA Delegation on Monday, Sept. 6, when they gather for a private reception at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City to celebrate the FIFA Delegation’s arrival in the United States.

Highlights of the three-day, five-city tour include:

·         Visits to proposed FIFA World Cup™ stadiums for all five markets: the New Meadowlands Stadium for New York/New Jersey, FedEx Field for Washington D.C., Sun Life Stadium for Miami, Cowboys Stadium for Dallas, and Reliant Stadium for Houston.
·         A tour of Red Bull Arena, home of the New York Red Bulls of Major League Soccer.  Red Bull Arena opened this year and is an example of the training sites proposed for 2018 or 2022.
·         Tours of a number of proposed sites for FIFA World Cup™ related activities, such as Preliminary and Final Draws, FIFA Congress, International Broadcast Center and FIFA Fan Fests.
·         Meetings with soccer figures, city leaders and celebrities in each market.

The USA Bid Committee will distribute a media wrap-up at the end of each day of the FIFA Technical Inspection Tour, detailing the activities in each one of the markets.
The tour will also present the opportunity for the USA Bid Committee to convey many of the legacy aspects of the USA Bid to the FIFA Delegation, including those in the soccer, social and environmental areas.

The USA Bid Committee on May 14 submitted to FIFA its comprehensive bid to host the FIFA World CupTM in 2018 or 2022.  The 24‑member FIFA Executive Committee will make its decision on hosts for both tournaments on Thursday, Dec. 2, at FIFA’s headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland.

FIFA INSPECTION DELEGATION SCHEDULE

Monday, September 6 – New York City
·         5:30 p.m. ET estimated arrival of FIFA Delegation at St. Regis Hotel
·         Private reception with representatives of 18 U.S. candidate host cities

Tuesday, September 7 – New York City – Washington, D.C.
·         10:30 a.m. ET media briefing* at St. Regis Hotel, second floor Versailles Room, featuring Harold Mayne-Nicholls, head of the FIFA Inspection Delegation, and Sunil Gulati, president of U.S. Soccer and chairman of USA Bid Committee
·         Tour of Javits Center, one of the proposed sites for Preliminary or Final Draw
·         Tour of Red Bull Arena, one of the bid’s proposed training sites
·         Tour of New Meadowlands Stadium, one of the bid’s proposed stadiums
·         Delegation flies to Washington, D.C.
·         Visit to George Mason University, one of the bid’s proposed base camp training sites
·         Private dinner with local soccer and political leadership

Wednesday, September 8 – Washington, D.C. – Miami – Dallas
·         Tour of the Washington Monument, one of the bid’s proposed Fan Fest sites
·         Tour of FedEx Field, one of the bid’s proposed stadiums
·         Delegation flies to Miami
·         Tour of Sun Life Stadium, one of the bid’s proposed stadiums
·         Tour of Miami Beach Convention Center, one of the proposed Final Draw sites
·         Delegation flies to Dallas

Thursday, September 9 – Dallas – Houston
·         Tour of Dallas Convention Center, one of the proposed FIFA Congress sites
·         Tour of Cowboys Stadium, one of the bid’s proposed stadiums
·         Delegation flies to Houston
·         Tour of Reliant Stadium, one of the bid’s proposed stadiums
·         Tour of George R. Brown Convention Center, one of the proposed sites for the International Broadcast Center
·         4 p.m. CT media briefing* at George R. Brown Convention Center, featuring Harold Mayne-Nicholls, head of the FIFA Inspection Committee, and Sunil Gulati, president of U.S. Soccer and chairman of USA Bid Committee
·         FIFA Delegation departs United States

ABOUT U.S. SOCCER:
Founded in 1913, U.S. Soccer has helped chart the course for soccer in the USA for more than 95 years as the governing body of the sport. In this time, the Federation’s mission statement has been simple and clear: to make soccer, in all its forms, a pre-eminent sport in the United States and to continue the development of soccer at all recreational and competitive levels. To that end, the sport’s growth in the past two decades has been nothing short of remarkable as U.S. Soccer’s National Teams have continually succeeded on the world stage while also growing the game here in the United States with the support of its members. For more information, visit www.ussoccer.com.

ABOUT THE USA BID COMMITTEE INC.:
The USA Bid Committee is a nonprofit organization created to prepare a successful application to host the FIFA World Cup™ in 2018 or 2022 on behalf of the United States Soccer Federation. U.S. Soccer President Sunil Gulati is Chairman of the USA Bid Committee, David Downs is the Executive Director and President Bill Clinton is the Honorary Chairman of the Board of Directors that includes New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, comedian Drew Carey, former boxer Oscar De La Hoya, American soccer stars Landon Donovan and Mia Hamm, actor Morgan Freeman, Major League Soccer Commissioner Don Garber, former U.S. Secretary of State Dr. Henry Kissinger, director Spike Lee, actor Brad Pitt and California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Fox Soccer Channel is an official sponsor of the U.S. Bid. The U.S. Bid includes 18 candidate host cities: Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego, Seattle, Tampa and Washington, D.C. The U.S. Bid also features 21 currently existing stadiums, 18 of which have been built or renovated in the last 20 years and all of which are in compliance with FIFA requirements. With an average capacity of more than 76,000 spectators, the stadiums in the U.S. Bid offer the availability of a World Cup-record five million tickets that would generate $1 billion in ticket sales. For more information on the U.S. Bid, visit www.goUSAbid.com

NEW YORK – Verizon’s High Speed Internet entered a new realm on Monday (Aug. 30) with the introduction of a 10 to 15 megabits-per-second (Mbps) downstream and 1 Mbps upstream* service initially available to more than 4 million households and small businesses.

“Consumers and small businesses everywhere have a need for speed,” said Shawn Strickland, Verizon’s vice president of consumer strategy. “With our new 10 to 15 Mbps speed tier, downloading files, photos and other content will be faster, plus our High Speed Internet customers will have peace of mind because our service is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee policy.”

The new 10 to 15 Mbps speed tier is the latest addition to Verizon’s existing suite of High Speed Internet speeds – 4 to 7 Mbps, 1.5 to 3 Mbps and 768 kilobits per second to 1 Mbps downstream for consumers, as well as similar business packages.  All HSI services include a dedicated connection to the home or business over the company’s copper network, so service won’t slow down when neighbors are online at the same time.

“This new, faster Verizon High Speed Internet service has the potential to attract business and residential customers who value the affordability, reliability, and everyday performance of their broadband connection,” said Amy Lind, consumer broadband research manager for the global technology market intelligence firm IDC.
“One of the issues with cable Internet is that its bandwidth capacity is shared by multiple users at a node, so the speed a customer actually receives can vary considerably depending on how many cable customers are online simultaneously,” said Lind.  “DSL-based High Speed Internet, on the other hand, offers each end user a dedicated connection, so its performance is more consistent all the time.”
Pricing for the 10 to 15Mbps/1 Mbps service is $49.99 per month for residential customers with voice service from Verizon, and $59.99 per month for those without voice service.  Small-business pricing for the new, higher speed tier begins at $89.99 per month as a stand alone service with a two-year agreement, and $99.99 per month with no term contract.  Equipment fees and other charges apply.
For new residential customers, consumer bundles of Verizon Freedom Essentials that include unlimited nationwide calling, voice mail, popular calling features and 10 to 15 Mbps/1 Mbps HSI service begin at $69.99 monthly.**  Comparable packages are available to small  and medium-sized businesses, beginning at $84.99 monthly** for 10 to 15 Mbps/1Mbps HSI service and unlimited nationwide calling.
Details on HSI eligibility, access to thousands of Wi-Fi hot spots and consumer packages that include Verizon unlimited domestic calling and award-winning DIRECTVÒ service can be found here. Information about discounted small-business bundles with unlimited calling and DIRECTVÒ  service can be obtained here, or by calling 1-800-Verizon (1-800-837-4966).
* Actual download and upload speeds will vary
** Plus applicable fees and taxes

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, NASDAQ:VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers. Verizon Wireless operates America’s most reliable wireless network, serving more than 92 million customers nationwide. Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America’s most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers innovative, seamless business solutions to customers around the world. A Dow 30 company, Verizon last year generated consolidated revenues of more than $107 billion. For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

The tournament is $500 per foursome, which includes greens fees, golf cart, range balls and lunch. Corporate and individual sponsorships are available for $150 and include signage on a designated hole and the opportunity to distribute marketing materials to all participants.

Space is limited. Early registration is encouraged. For more information, contact Alison White at (813) 228-7100 or alison.white@ryan.com.

About Ryan
Ryan is the leading tax services firm in North America, with the largest transaction tax practice in the United States and Canada. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, the Firm provides a comprehensive range of state, local, federal, and international tax advisory and consulting services on a multi-jurisdictional basis, including audit defense, tax recovery, credits and incentives, tax process improvement and automation, tax appeals, and strategic planning. With a multi-disciplinary team of more than 800 professionals and associates, Ryan serves many of the world’s most prominent Fortune 1000 companies.

About Moffitt Cancer Center
Located in Tampa, Florida, Moffitt Cancer Center  is an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center – a designation that recognizes Moffitt’s excellence in research and contributions to clinical trials, prevention and cancer control. Moffitt currently has 14 affiliates in Florida, one in Georgia and two in Puerto Rico. Additionally, Moffitt is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, a prestigious alliance of the country’s leading cancer centers, and is listed in U.S. News & World Report as one of “America’s Best Hospitals” for cancer. Moffitt’s sole mission is to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.

Plaza Advisors represented the seller in the transaction and co-managing partners Anthony Blanco and Jim Michalak, together with Senior Associate Lenard Williams, were involved in the engagement.  The sale of this property marks the second freestanding Walgreen’s sale by Plaza Advisors in 2010.

Plaza Advisors is a real estate brokerage firm that specializes in the disposition of retail properties in the southeastern United States.  The firm has offices in Tampa and Miami.  Plaza Advisors’ clients include private equity investors, developers, and major institutions including fund advisors, servicing agents, life insurance companies, REITs, and money center banks.  Co-managing partners Jim Michalak and Anthony Blanco have a combined 40 years investment brokerage experience. The duo has closed over 140 shopping center transactions, with a combined GLA exceeding 15 million square feet with an aggregate sales volume in excess of $2 billion.

www.plazadvisors.com

Chuck Bohac, vice president in the Industrial & Land Services Group at Grubb & Ellis|Commercial Florida, brokered the transaction representing the new tenant Vertex Distribution. Vertex is an Attleboro, Mass.-based distributor of fasteners, rivets and clamps relocating its Tampa operations from  nearby Adamo Drive.

The landlord is ABD Capital Corporation of Tampa.
* * *

About Grubb & Ellis|Commercial Florida:
Grubb & Ellis|Commercial Florida is an affiliated commercial real estate services firm specializing in the leasing and sale of office, industrial, retail, land and investment properties.  Currently Grubb & Ellis|Commercial Florida has 45 brokers divided among its Tampa, Orlando and Melbourne offices to serve the entire mid-Florida marketplace.  Visit www.commercialfl.com.

About Grubb & Ellis Company:

Named to The Global Outsourcing 100™ in 2009 by the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals™, Grubb & Ellis Company (NYSE: GBE) is one of the largest and most respected commercial real estate services and investment companies in the world. Our 6,000 professionals in more than 130 company-owned and affiliate offices draw from a unique platform of real estate services, practice groups and investment products to deliver comprehensive, integrated solutions to real estate owners, tenants and investors. The firm’s transaction, management, consulting and investment services are supported by highly regarded proprietary market research and extensive local expertise. Through its investment subsidiaries, the company is a leading sponsor of real estate investment programs that provide individuals and institutions the opportunity to invest in a broad range of real estate investment vehicles, including public non-traded real estate investment trusts (REITs), mutual funds and other real estate investment funds. For more information, visit   www.grubb-ellis.com.

Clearwater, Fla. (Aug. 2010) – In response to continued growth and increased demands, Easy Living, Inc., a trusted provider of private duty home healthcare for residents of Pinellas County, has announced the promotion of Shannon Martin <http://www.agingwisely.com/meet-our-team/#shannon>  to director of communications and the appointment of Cynthia Bondell <http://www.agingwisely.com/meet-our-team/#cynthia>  to take over Shannon’s previous role of director of community relations for both EasyLiving, Inc. and Aging Wisely, LLC, a comprehensive care management and consultation company in Clearwater, Fla.

As director of communications, Martin will assume more responsibilities for EasyLiving and Aging Wisely’s communications, as they continue to share their expertise with families and professionals across the country via the Web and other means. Bondell will assume responsibilities for community outreach, marketing and sales for both companies.

“We are pleased to welcome Cynthia to our team. Her experience and knowledge of the Tampa Bay senior and elder care community will certainly be an asset as we continue to grow,” said Alex Chamberlain, executive director of EasyLiving, Inc. “Cynthia’s main responsibility will be to educate the community about our services and make sure the community knows we’re there to help when needed.”

Bondell brings more than 13 years of experience in the Tampa Bay senior housing market to her new role. Most recently, Bondell served as director of sales and marketing for Aston Gardens of Tampa Bay. She received her M.A. in Gerontology from Northeast Louisiana University, now University of Louisiana of Monroe.

EasyLiving <http://www.easylivingfl.com/> , which serves clients in Pinellas and Pasco counties, provides services such as transportation, light housekeeping, errands, household management, assistance with activities of daily living and hygiene, medication management and companionship. With more than ten years of experience, Aging Wisely <http://www.agingwisely.com/>  provides a unique combination of services to meet the needs of caregivers including home safety assessments, care planning and recommendations, coordination of community services, monitoring services and more.

About EasyLiving, Inc.
EasyLiving, Inc. is a fully licensed, private duty home health care company serving individuals and families in Pinellas County, Florida. Our highly trained, extensively screened, and courteous Personal Care Assistants provide clients with the non-medical support they need to have more active, healthy, and meaningful lives and remain comfortably in their own homes.  We work with directly with long term care insurance providers to ensure that the hassle of filing paperwork is minimized and our clients have the freedom to focus on the activities they enjoy the most.  For more information, please visit www.easylivingfl.com.

About Aging Wisely, LLC.
Founded in 1998, Aging Wisely, LLC is a professional care management and consultation company, serving families faced with illness, disability and caregiving concerns. Based in Clearwater, Fla., Aging Wisely provides expertise, consultation, assessments, advocacy and coordination of services for clients in Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties and for families throughout the nation. Additionally, Aging Wisely is often called upon by organizations and publications as an expert resource on eldercare issues and aging. In 2009, Aging Wisely was recognized as a finalist in the Tampa Bay Business Journal’s Healthcare Heroes awards. For more information, please visit www.agingwisely.com .

St. Petersburg, FL, August 2010 – PSCU Financial Services announced that over 270 credit unions now use its Total Member Care™ Contact Centers, to deliver a holistic and comprehensive approach to member support. In addition to handling inquiries on a variety of financial services, the cooperative’s Contact Centers help credit unions communicate effectively with members about mergers, data processing and home banking conversions, and regulatory changes. All services are available 24/7/365 to ensure maximum member satisfaction and loyalty.

To date, 54 credit unions leverage the Contact Centers to obtain member opt-ins required by Regulation E, 24 new credit unions plan to use the service for lending and new member enrollment and 18 additional credit unions have signed up to use the service for after-hours and overflow support.

“Contact Center support has been instrumental in obtaining overdraft authorization from our members quickly and cost effectively. This effort has helped us preserve our non-interest income and protect member relationships through clear communication about this new regulation,” said Michelle M. Balog, Executive Vice President, NuMark Credit Union.

Credit unions are also employing the flexible service for new member enrollment and lending applications. “We use Total Member Care Contact Center services for all of our new member and consumer loan applications. Not only do Contact Center professionals apply our unique requirements to these activities, they are available 24/7/365 for our members’ convenience, which significantly enhances the quality of this critical aspect of our operations,” said Jesse M. Boyer, Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Realtors® Federal Credit Union.

After-hours and overflow support remain key reasons credit unions select Total Member Care Contact Center solutions. “Our members expect us to be available when they are, which is normally evenings and weekends. Having around-the-clock service has improved member satisfaction and supports growth in the adoption and utilization of our financial products,” said Rick Steele, Director of Financial Service Center and Compliance, H.E.B. Federal Credit Union.

Credit unions that have recently signed up for after-hours and overflow support include: Deere Employees Credit Union, Moline, Ill.; Workers Credit Union, Fitchburg, Mass.; Department of Commerce Federal Credit Union, Washington, D.C.; San Francisco Police Credit Union, San Francisco, Calif.; FEDEX Employees Credit Association Federal Credit Union, Memphis, Tenn.; and Qualstar Credit Union, Redmond, Wash.

Outsourcing calls to PSCU Financial Services Contact Centers’ increase staff productivity while delivering a higher level of service—and 24/7/365 convenience—to members.  In addition to supporting traditional product areas such as debit, credit, online bill payment and Internet banking, representatives now handle account inquiries, balance transfers, password resets, loan applications, new member enrollment, account initiation and a broad range of topics related to credit union operations—at any time of the day or night.

Total Member Care Contact Center staffers are also trained to boost revenue through collections, outbound calling campaigns and cross selling of additional financial services—as determined by each credit union. Annually, the Contact Centers service over 17 million inquiries.  More than 1,500 financial institutions use PSCU Financial Services Contact Centers.

PSCU Financial Services
Based in St. Petersburg, Florida, PSCU Financial Services is the nation’s largest credit union service organization (CUSO) and serves more than 1,500 financial institutions nationwide. As a non-profit cooperative, the company is owned by more than 640 member credit unions representing over 14 million accounts and 1 million online bill payment subscribers. Its Contact Centers handle more than 17.4 million inquiries a year.

PSCU Financial Services offers 24/7 member support through four Contact Centers: its Eastern operations center in St. Petersburg, Fla.; a Western operations center based in Phoenix, Ariz.; and two call centers in Detroit, Mich. These Contact Centers perform member servicing and new member acquisition, cross-selling and automated lending solutions as well as support for debit/credit/prepaid cardholders and online bill payment subscribers.

Established in 1977, the company provides a broad array of cost-effective, high quality financial services that include credit, debit, ATM, prepaid, bill payment and contact center solutions. PSCU Financial Services uniquely offers its members a full range of processing options, any combination from full service to in-house pass through processing for credit, debit and ATM transactions. As a leader in the credit union movement, the company offers gateway access to national and regional networks. It also provides full function ATM terminal driving services. For more information, visit PSCU Financial Services’ website at www.pscufs.com.

Boulder Investments LLC has purchased a 7,250 SF building at 252 Field End Street, Sarasota in the Sarasota International Trade Center for $425,000.  The Seller was Bank of Commerce.  Nick DeVito, II of Kleiber DeVito Real Estate Group handled the transaction.

EPI Systems Integrations LLC has leased 2,400 SF of office and warehouse space at 5355 McIntosh Center, Unit 3, Sarasota from SNS LLC. Nick DeVito, II of Kleiber DeVito Real Estate Group handled the transaction.

Keller brings 15 years of experience in data capture solutions and channel sales to AnyDoc, including a familiarity with partners and vendors in the Enterprise Content Management (ECM) space within his assigned territory. His background highlights include reselling imaging systems, data capture and document imaging solutions as well as developing and managing a reseller channel.

Keller’s expertise lies in selling advanced solutions for unstructured documents, which are business documents with data in varying locations from one version to the next, such as invoices and remittances. He will leverage his skills to assist the channel, working directly with AnyDoc value-added resellers, mainly in the Central and Mountain Time zones.

“We take pride in our channel as our main avenue for growth,” said David Talarico, Vice President of Channel Sales at AnyDoc Software. “Bringing Loran to the team is a great investment for our channel in the Central region. He brings years of experience in this area, both geographic and skill-wise, and will be the expert resource and support our channel needs to focus on procuring the more complex deals our resellers have avoided in the past, particularly with invoice processing,” he continued.

“Joining the AnyDoc Software channel sales team gives me the opportunity to continue to trail blaze in areas of sophisticated document automation, including invoice processing, document classification, and sales order processing,” Keller said.

About AnyDoc Software
AnyDoc Software has been developing award-winning document, data capture, and classification solutions since 1989. More than 3,000 clients and 70,000 users worldwide in 45 countries rely on AnyDoc solutions to eliminate millions of hours of manual data entry while improving their productivity and data accuracy. Any paper form or document including insurance notices, claims, invoices, remittances, and checks can be automatically processed with full data capture without the need for manual keying. Clients include: Fastenal Company, Sony Pictures Entertainment, BlueCross BlueShield, the U.S. Census, LeasePlan, Coop, and more. For additional information, please visit www.AnyDocSoftware.com.

For more information contact:
Judy Mann, Marketing Communications Manager
AnyDoc Software, Inc.
(813) 222-0414
jmann@anydocsoftware.com

###

AnyDoc Software values your online privacy. If you do not wish to receive future emails, please email cholmes@anydocsoftware.com. AnyDoc Software, OCR for AnyDoc, Infiniworx, AnyDocAuditor, AnyDocCLAIM, AnyDocCLASSIFY, AnyDocEOB, AnyDocINSURANCE Suite, AnyDocINVOICE, AnyDocMORTGAGE, AnyDocNOTE, AnyDocNOTICE, AnyDoc Patient Records, AnyDocREMIT, AnyApp, QuickApp, BROKERit, CAPTUREit, DESIGNit, EXCHANGEit, MANAGEit and VERIFYit are trademarks of AnyDoc Software, Inc., and are protected by U.S. and international laws. This newsletter is for informational purposes only. The information should not be interpreted to be a commitment on the part of AnyDoc Software, and AnyDoc Software cannot guarantee the accuracy of any information presented after the date of publication. Information provided in this document is provided ‘as is’ without warranty of any kind. The user assumes the entire risk as to the accuracy and the use of this document. © 2010 AnyDoc Software, Inc. All rights reserved. One Tampa City Center, Suite 800, Tampa, Florida 33602-5157, 813-222-0414.

Icard Merrill is proud to congratulate Michael J. Furen (listed in Land Use & Zoning Law and Real Estate Law) and Thomas F. Icard, Jr. (listed in Alternative Dispute Resolution and Construction Law) for their dual listing again this year.

In addition to Furen and Icard, Icard Merrill lawyers Charles J. Bartlett (Commercial Litigation), Robert K. Lincoln (Land Use & Zoning Law), Robert G. Lyons (Personal Injury Law) and, William W. Merrill, III (Land Use & Zoning Law) are also included in this year’s list bringing the total to six.  Only 2.4% of the lawyers in the United States and Canada make the list each year.

Established in 1981, Best Lawyers is widely considered to be the most reliable and unbiased source of legal referrals, with publications in 48 countries around the world. This year’s judging process was based on more than 3.1 million detailed evaluations of lawyers submitted by other lawyers. The 2010 annual U.S. guide includes 39,766 attorneys in 80 practice areas and is published nationally as a resource for the general public, corporations and those in the legal profession.

Mike Furen is a shareholder at Icard Merrill. He joined the firm in 1966 after graduating from the University of Florida College of Law and currently serves as its Chairman of the Board. His practice is specialized in the areas of land use, development, real property, administrative and government law. He has extensive experience with developments of regional impact and has represented private development interests throughout Florida and beyond.

Tom Icard began his practice in Tampa in 1973 after graduating from the Florida State University College of Law and joined Icard Merrill as a shareholder in 1995. He focuses his nationally recognized practice on construction related matters, from preparation and review of contract documents to claims negotiation and multiparty litigation. He is also regularly engaged as a mediator or arbitrator in alternative dispute resolution (ADR) proceedings. He is a Diplomate of the Florida Academy of Professional Mediators and a by-invitation member of the Florida Circuit-Civil Mediator Society and the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals.

Established in 1953, the 30 lawyers and 60 employees of Icard Merrill maintain offices in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch and Punta Gorda. Icard Merrill is a full-service law firm with a strong commitment to supporting its communities through its patronage of the arts, civic involvement and significant pro bono contributions.
For more information, call (941) 366-8100 or visit www.icardmerrill.com.