Vol. 31 No. 13 April 1, 2013 A Weekly Space Coast Business Magazine printed in Brevard County, Florida since 1984 Please see PIRTEK USA, page 19 Gwyn O’Kane is vice president of franchise development for PIRTEK USA. The company has 41 franchises across America and is growing. His company, with its corporate office at Rockledge Business Park, is the industry leader in on–site hydraulic hose replacement. It’s a business–to–business franchise. Originally from New Zealand, O’Kane, an engineer by training, started with the firm 25 years ago in London as a technician driving a mobile van. PIRTEK UK has its own racing team, competing with a Honda Civic NGTC in the British Touring Car Championships. BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS, INC. By Ken Datzman ROCKLEDGE — In the conference room at PIRTEK USA’s corporate head- quarters, the company’s large territorial franchise map on the wall clearly pinpoints the franchisor’s growth, from Boston to Seattle and a host of Metropoli- tan Statistical Areas in–between. New Zealander Gwyn O’Kane, an engineer who started with PIRTEK 25 years ago in the United Kingdom and also worked in Australia, where the firm was founded, says he is excited about his company’s growth potential in America and the unique entrepreneurial franchise opportunity it presents to businesspeople. “We are in a perfect position to grow in the years ahead. We have built a solid foundation. PIRTEK is a different kind of franchise model. We are industrial– based, business–to–business,” said O’Kane, whose company is recognized in the latest “Entrepreneur Magazine Franchise 500 Rankings.” O’Kane, the vice president of franchise development for PIRTEK USA, said a growing number of non–traditional business–to–business franchises are coming from abroad to America. “PIRTEK is a proven model. We’ve been in the arena for three decades and are in 22 countries (more than 350 locations).” PIRTEK expanded to the U.S. in 1996. Its corporate campus at Rockledge Business Park includes a more than 20,000–square–foot warehouse and training facility. PIRTEK supplies all of its locations in the U.S. from Rockledge. The administrative offices house information technology, finance, marketing, and other operations. Thirty–five people work here. While there is currently a fairly wide PIRTEK footprint of exclusive franchise territories around the nation under ownership, the company seems to have only begun to grow in the business–to–business segment, where it has reshaped the way the market is serviced with its model for on–site hydraulic–hose replacement and fittings. PIRTEK’s mobile–service vans go directly to the customer, conveniently providing on–site replacement for quality hoses and fittings. It saves the client money and downtime on the job, said O’Kane. “You can imagine a big bulldozer on a construction site that is idle because of a hose breakdown. It’s costing the company serious money. We work on machines that cost $500,000,” he said. PIRTEK’s customers are businesses that use hydraulic hose, pneumatic hose, or other kinds of hoses. These companies are involved in a range of industries, from construction and manufacturing to transportation and aerospace. “Hydraulics is everywhere,” said O’Kane, adding that the industry is character- ized by labor–intensive processes. The three largest segments of the fluid–power industry are mobile hydraulic, industrial hydraulic, and pneumatic, according to the National Fluid Power Association. Historically, mobile–hydraulic applications have accounted for about 50 percent of fluid–power sales, while the other two segments each have held roughly 25 percent of the market. Today, PIRTEK touts itself as the “world’s leader” for on–site hose replace- ment. Two aspiring service–minded entrepreneurs in Australia have seen their idea sprout into a full–fledged global franchise system. “The founders of PIRTEK (Peter Duncan and Wally Davis), who are still with the company today, changed the way the hose–fittings market was serviced,” said O’Kane, who joined PIRTEK as a mobile sales and service technician and later Franchisor PIRTEK poised to grow with new locations around nation BBN Brevard Business News
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Vol. 31 No. 13 April 1, 2013 A Weekly Space Coast Business Magazine printed in Brevard County, Florida since 1984
Please see PIRTEK USA, page 19
Gwyn O’Kane is vice president of franchise development for PIRTEK USA. The company has 41 franchisesacross America and is growing. His company, with its corporate office at Rockledge Business Park, is theindustry leader in on–site hydraulic hose replacement. It’s a business–to–business franchise. Originally fromNew Zealand, O’Kane, an engineer by training, started with the firm 25 years ago in London as a techniciandriving a mobile van. PIRTEK UK has its own racing team, competing with a Honda Civic NGTC in the BritishTouring Car Championships.
BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth
PRESORTEDSTANDARD
US POSTAGEPAID
BREVARD BUSINESSNEWS, INC.
By Ken Datzman
ROCKLEDGE — In the conference room at PIRTEK USA’s corporate head-
quarters, the company’s large territorial franchise map on the wall clearly
pinpoints the franchisor’s growth, from Boston to Seattle and a host of Metropoli-
tan Statistical Areas in–between.
New Zealander Gwyn O’Kane, an engineer who started with PIRTEK 25 years
ago in the United Kingdom and also worked in Australia, where the firm was
founded, says he is excited about his company’s growth potential in America and
the unique entrepreneurial franchise opportunity it presents to businesspeople.
“We are in a perfect position to grow in the years ahead. We have built a solid
foundation. PIRTEK is a different kind of franchise model. We are industrial–
based, business–to–business,” said O’Kane, whose company is recognized in the
O’Kane, the vice president of franchise development for PIRTEK USA, said a
growing number of non–traditional business–to–business franchises are coming
from abroad to America. “PIRTEK is a proven model. We’ve been in the arena for
three decades and are in 22 countries (more than 350 locations).”
PIRTEK expanded to the U.S. in 1996. Its corporate campus at Rockledge
Business Park includes a more than 20,000–square–foot warehouse and training
facility. PIRTEK supplies all of its locations in the U.S. from Rockledge.
The administrative offices house information technology, finance, marketing,
and other operations. Thirty–five people work here.
While there is currently a fairly wide PIRTEK footprint of exclusive franchise
territories around the nation under ownership, the company seems to have only
begun to grow in the business–to–business segment, where it has reshaped the
way the market is serviced with its model for on–site hydraulic–hose replacement
and fittings.
PIRTEK’s mobile–service vans go directly to the customer, conveniently
providing on–site replacement for quality hoses and fittings. It saves the client
money and downtime on the job, said O’Kane.
“You can imagine a big bulldozer on a construction site that is idle because of a
hose breakdown. It’s costing the company serious money. We work on machines
that cost $500,000,” he said.
PIRTEK’s customers are businesses that use hydraulic hose, pneumatic hose,
or other kinds of hoses. These companies are involved in a range of industries,
from construction and manufacturing to transportation and aerospace.
“Hydraulics is everywhere,” said O’Kane, adding that the industry is character-
ized by labor–intensive processes.
The three largest segments of the fluid–power industry are mobile hydraulic,
industrial hydraulic, and pneumatic, according to the National Fluid Power
Association.
Historically, mobile–hydraulic applications have accounted for about 50
percent of fluid–power sales, while the other two segments each have held roughly
25 percent of the market.
Today, PIRTEK touts itself as the “world’s leader” for on–site hose replace-
ment. Two aspiring service–minded entrepreneurs in Australia have seen their
idea sprout into a full–fledged global franchise system.
“The founders of PIRTEK (Peter Duncan and Wally Davis), who are still with
the company today, changed the way the hose–fittings market was serviced,” said
O’Kane, who joined PIRTEK as a mobile sales and service technician and later
Franchisor PIRTEK poised to grow with new locations around nation
BBN Brevard Business
News
APRIL 1, 2013Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising InformationBREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 2
Visit us at www.CandlelightersofBrevard.org for more information, or call 321-728-5600. 1875-A South Patrick Drive, Indian Harbour Beach, FL 32937Candlelighters of Brevard is a 501(c)3 tax exempt, non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible as allowed by law. ID# 59-3068501 A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling 800-435-7352 within the State. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the State.
RED ROSE BOUQUET - $20,000+Brevard County Hyundai Dealers
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form of reality shows on many 24–hour cable–program-
ming cycles. The airwaves are filled with quirky notions of
obscure Egyptology, extraterrestrial ancestors, and
human–animal creatures in the woods. We consume books
listed in the top 10 most prominent non–fiction categories
on “The New York Times” bestseller lists — that are
actually fiction.
We populate theaters that offer us outlandish and silly,
but frighteningly popular “reality–based” movies of
modern–day vampires, werewolves and ghosts, which
appear to be replacing a formerly legitimate genre —
science fiction — the staple primer for future scientists and
innovative thinkers.
Worse yet are the popular plethora of television
“documentaries” about paranormal activity equipped with
high–tech sensors prominently depicted as measures of
reliable truth.
In the fine arts, particularly the traditional visual arts,
a similar phenomenon has occurred, as fashionable art is
becoming more popular than the more thought–provoking
art. But because the fine arts are sometimes deemed less
relevant to the lives of many in our contemporary culture, I
think the issue unfortunately goes less noticed and may be
considered unequal to the issues confronting science,
especially as pseudoscience attempts to usurp and
misconstrue the language and methodologies of real
science. To those who are uninformed and not exposed to
significant experiences or opportunities for education in
the arts, the visual arts are often relegated to the same
realms as pseudoscience.
Leonardo da Vinci has always been celebrated as both
an artist and a scientist for his beautiful and meticulous
renderings of the observable world while also offering us
his visions of futuristic flying machines. M.C. Escher, a
recently popular contemporary artist, created complex
interlocking geometric forms that can be perceived as
either birds or fish or both simultaneously, depending on
how you look at them. Da Vinci and Escher are well known
examples of artists/scientists.
Long ago, Paul Cézanne, the indisputable “father of
modern art,” was considered radical for simply eliminating
directional light and shadow in his paintings. By doing
this, his forms began to exist in a “universal” light rather
than a specific moment in time. Light, therefore, became
integral to color — a static and timeless light.
He also challenged ideas about space by suggesting that
space is not empty. By interlocking and converging broad
planes of space with broad planes of mass in his land-
scapes, Cézanne made paintings in which space is affected
by objects, and objects are affected by space.
Cézanne’s paintings demonstrated new conceptions of
space, time and light that were being elaborated at the
time by the physicists who were challenging assumptions
in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
To some of us working as research educators with
students to reconnect the arts and sciences, this compari-
son between modern art and modern physics is fundamen-
tal.
UCF physics major Christopher Frye and art student
Mary Joy Torrecampo are both interested in relationships
between science and art, and are currently collaborating on
an undergraduate interdisciplinary research project.
Based on Frye’s explanations to Torrecampo about the
geometry of our universe, her challenge is to recreate those
explanations in a painting.
Frye said: “Did you ever play an arcade game as a kid,
where if you leave the right side of the screen then you
return on the left? In such a universe, space is wrapped up
like a cylinder or a torus (a doughnut–shaped surface) so
that if you keep going in one direction, you will always
return to where you began. Physicists believe that our
universe might be wrapped up like a cylinder or a torus,
and the theory of relativity tells us what life should be like
in such a universe.”
His explanation goes on, and it will be a challenge for
Torrecampo to find a way to depict his ideas in a creative
way that is relevant to both her interests and skills as an
artist.
In the future, Frye will continue to pursue advanced
physics, but in a world that values pop–science over real
science his field may become more and more obscure. I
hope Torrecampo’s imagery, however, might compel people
to become excited about Frye’s complex theoretical ideas.
On the other hand, without Frye’s subject matter,
Torrecampo’s abstract paintings may seem incomprehen-
sible and irrelevant to a public that often cares little about
the seemingly radical imagery of contemporary art.
I hope that more students like them will be encouraged
to collaborate for the sake of achieving and obtaining a
more expansive, interdisciplinary opportunity for seeking
truth and knowledge.
Together, science and art can provide answers in search for truth, knowledgeBy Carla PoindexterUCF Forum columnist
As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of UCF this year,
we are reminded that the core benefit of an upper–level
education is the opportunity to pursue and obtain insight
and knowledge over blindness and ignorance.
We live in a time in which faith in religion is believed
by many to provide the best solutions to our most profound
and unknowable questions. To others, the discipline of
mathematics and the scientific method of inquiry are
considered to be the best rational means for navigating
human dilemmas.
While these age–old debates between the sacred and
secular continue, we must be cautious to not overlook the
subtle changes that have taken place in the means and
manners for pursuing truth that are offered to us outside
the academic world.
More and more, we are being inundated in media and
politics with pseudoscience presented as real science in the
UCF Forum columnist Carla Poindexteris an associate professor of fine art at theUniversity of Central Florida and can bereached at [email protected].
Habitat for Humanity of Brevard announces annual art contest winners in three divisionsHabitat for Humanity of Brevard County Inc. has announced the winners of its 25th Youth Art contest.
The organization invited local elementary, middle and high school art students to share their vision of Habitat and its
tie to its largest fund–raiser, the annual Strawberry Festival.
Students competed in three categories. The winner and their teacher in each category are: Elementary Division,
Hailey Harris from Saturn Elementary; art teacher is Tracey Asby; Middle School, Rachel Clary, Southwest Middle
School; art teacher is Janet Tucker; and High School, Erika Dietl from West Shore High School; art teacher is James
Finch.
“We were excited to have professional artists from The Art Gallery of Viera in the Avenue as distinguished judges this
year,” said Diane Koenig, Habitat’s ReStore manager. “It gives the students a professional’s view of their work which
raises the bar in this competition.”
For more information, go to www.BrevardHabitat or call 728–4009.
Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationAPRIL 1, 2013 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 5
BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWSHarris selects Coastal Mechanical forproject; Coastal makes donation to UW
Harris Corp. and Balfour–Beatty Construction selected
Melbourne–based Coastal Mechanical to lead the mechani-
cal build–out of the new Harris Technology Center in Palm
Bay.
The selection of a local contractor brings with it “much–
needed opportunities for local employment.”
Florida construction was one of the hardest hit indus-
tries during the Great Recession of 2008, when the once–
booming housing market collapsed, creating hard times for
many families in the region. They had to reach out to seek
help from support agencies such as United Way of
Brevard.
Harris Corp. continues to be the largest United Way
Workplace Campaign contributor in Brevard County.
To show appreciation for Harris’ commitment to
rebuilding the local community with its choice of a local
contractor, and to thank United Way for supporting those
in need during a difficult time in the construction industry,
Coastal Mechanical recently made the first donation of the
2013 United Way of Brevard Campaign in the amount of
$10,000.
“We are optimistic of the recent upswing in construction
activity statewide,” said P.J. Goodwin, Coastal
Mechanical’s president. “Most importantly, we are
encouraged by such a large local project that allows us to
offer jobs in our own backyard. We thank Harris for that
opportunity, and we thank United Way for taking care of
our community during our time of need.”
Coastal Mechanical has been providing employment to
Floridians since 1985. It currently employs 230 people in
the state.
Brevard Paralegal Association to host itsannual meeting at Suntree Country Club
The Brevard Paralegal Association will host its annual
meeting and election of officers at 6 p.m. on Thursday,
April 11, at Suntree Country Club in Melbourne.
Active members in good standing will be entitled to
vote, and non–members are encouraged to attend as well.
Active members who are unable to attend should complete
and return their proxy by April 1 to ensure BPA has a
quorum at the election. To RSVP or receive more informa-
694 Eau Gallie Blvd, Indian Harbour Beach, FL 32937(321) 773-7788
2251 Town Center Avenue Suite 105 Viera, FL 32940(321) 433-0607
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BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 8
Florida Air Academy and Barnes & Noble on New
Haven Avenue in Melbourne are teaming up for a special
community event. In an effort to raise funds for the school’s
programs, Barnes & Noble will host a bookfair from 6 p.m.
to 8 p.m. on April 19.
The store will donate a percentage of every sale made
with a special book voucher to Florida Air Academy.
Vouchers will be available at Florida Air Academy’s
website (www.FLAir.com), at the event, and in hard copy
at the school.
The Barnes & Noble Bookfair will help Florida Air
Academy in several ways, the school said. First, a percent-
age of the bookfair sales will underwrite school programs.
Second, the school’s library will be able to create a “wish–
list” of titles to enhance its own library collection.
Bookfair supporters may choose books from an in–store
“wish–list” display to purchase for the library.
Florida Air Academy’s events and programs at the store
that evening will include musical and dance performances,
Florida Air Academy Bookfair scheduled April 19 at Barnes & Noble on New Haven Avenue in Melbournepoetry readings, a trivia contest, and more.
For more information about the event, contact Melissa
Alton, Florida Air Academy principal, at 723–3211,
Fundraising Professionals elects Rosalind Weiss as the president of its boardThe Space Coast Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals has named its board of directors for 2013.
Rosalind Weiss, director of marketing and development for Brevard Achievement Center, has been elected chapter
president. Serving on the board with Weiss are these professionals: president–elect, Michele Murrrell, executive director,
Brevard Community College Foundation; secretary, Patricia Hurst, assistant director of development, Devereux of
Florida; treasurer, Leslie Bardo, development director, Children’s Home Society of Florida, Brevard Division; and
immediate past president, Jane McCallum, director, corporate and annual giving, Health First Foundation.
The members–at–large include: Jeanene Donilon, director, individual and planned giving, Health First Foundation;
Tracy Steele, development director, Melbourne Central Catholic High School; and Mary Wallis, director of advancement,
Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy
The Association of Fundraising Professionals represents nearly 30,000 members in 231 chapters throughout the
world, working to advance philanthropy through education, training, mentoring, research, credentialing, and advocacy.
The Space Coast Chapter hosts bimonthly educational meetings and special events throughout the year. Its mission is
to support the professional development of fund–raising professionals throughout Brevard and to advance the culture of
philanthropy in the community. For more information, visit AFPSpaceCoast.afpnet.org.
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3/18/13page 16
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BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS
Area young people ages 8 to 17 will have a chance to
take to the skies on Saturday, April 27, as Experimental
Aircraft Association (EAA) Chapter 724 hosts a Young
Eagles Flight Rally at Merritt Island Airport.
The rally is part of the EAA Aviation Foundation’s
Young Eagles Program, created to get more young people
interested in aviation.
Volunteer EAA pilots had a goal of providing 1 million
young people an airplane ride by the 100th Anniversary of
Flight, Dec. 17, 2003. To date more than 1.7 million Young
Eagles have experienced the thrill of flight since 1992.
(5,610 at Merritt Island Airport)
Free airplane rides are just part of the Flight Rally. The
pilots hope to “build one–to–one relationships between
pilots and young people, giving a new generation a chance
to learn more about possibilities that exist in the world of
aviation.”
Following the flight, each young person will receive a
certificate making him or her an official Young Eagle.
EAA to host Young Eagles Flight Rally on April 27 at Merritt Island Airport; plane rides part of programTheir name will then be entered into the “world’s largest
logbook,” which is on permanent display at the EAA Air
Adventure Museum in Oshkosh, Wis. The logbook is also
accessible at www.youngeagles.org.
Young people and their parents attending the flight
rally on April 27 are asked to come to the large hangar at
the end of Airport Road (two miles south of State Road 520
on South Courtney Parkway).
Registration will start at 8:30 a.m. and will close at
noon. Flights will begin at 9 a.m. A parent or guardian
must sign a permission form for each young person. No
reservations are required or accepted.
Additional information about EAA, the EAA Aviation
Foundation and Young Eagles is available at www.eaa.org,
LBR’s Robison and McGuire lease retail space to two national brandsMelbourne–based Lightle Beckner Robison Inc. has announced the closing of two national retail leases. The retail
team of Jeffery Robison, principal, and Brandon McGuire, associate, executed the leases. AAA has signed a 10–year lease
for roughly 4,800 square feet of space in the Post Commons Shopping Center on Wickham Road in Melbourne.
At the Cocoa Commons Shopping Center on State Road 524, Anytime Fitness has signed a five–year lease for about
4,800 square feet.
Lightle Beckner Robison is a full–service real–estate firm, committed solely to the commercial segment of real estate.
Specializing in office, retail, industrial, investment properties and asset–property management, the firm serves
Brevard County extending across the entire states of Florida and Georgia. Visit www.TeamLBR.com
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BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS
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By Ken Datzman
Florida Business Bank is back on a growth track and looking to the
future with optimism, as a steady turnaround in the market has the
Melbourne institution tracking a solid year and winning accolades for its
financial performance.
“Our lending started to increase last summer and has continued at
a pace we haven’t seen in several years,” said William “Bill” Norris, the
president and chief executive officer of Florida Business Bank, which was
founded in March 2000 by area businesspeople.
“I think businesses are making the commitment to do what they need
to do in order to grow and expand. Our business has been very strong. The
first quarter has been awesome. We’re doing a lot of lending — strong
borrowers, good deals.”
Florida Business Bank’s core lending range is $250,000 to $800,000,
Norris said.
“We certainly do larger loans. In fact, we have closed several of them in
the last couple of months alone. And we do smaller loans, but in general
the $250,000 to $800,000 range is our ‘sweet spot’ in the market.”
Norris says being a small bank has its advantages, especially when it
involves a loan request. “I always tell the customer the loan decision is
made in Melbourne, Florida. Our board of directors is made up of local men
and women. We’re proud to say that.”
He added, “The beauty of what we do as a small bank is make loan
decisions in a timely fashion, and customers appreciate it. We inform our
customers, particularly on the real–estate side, that we will be ready to
close their loan five days prior to the contract date. No excuses.”
The last five years has been a brutal operating environment for banks,
which saw their portfolios torpedoed by record numbers of both individual
and business bankruptcies.
Bankers also experienced lukewarm demand for loans. And their
margins, the rates at which they borrow and lend, have been razor–thin.
“Like every other small bank, we have been through the wringer,” said
Norris, who has steered his bank’s turnaround.
He was named interim president last May and promoted to his current
title two months later, in July.
An economics graduate of Lake Erie College in Ohio, Norris has wide
banking and mortgage experience, including the areas of branch develop-
ment, product development, and market analysis, with various size
institutions.
He led a small–business bank group for Fifth Third Bank on the West
Coast of Florida.
Norris credits the Florida Business Bank board for its steady approach
guiding the organization through the rough economy the last several years.
“One of the key things that has greatly assisted in getting us to where
we are today, and where we plan to go in the future, is the outstanding
support of our board members. They have stuck to the plan in dealing with
the portfolio and cleaning it up in a methodical way,” he said.
And the board’s commitment to staying the course, working through
loan issues, and sticking to its niche and mission, has paid off with a
sterling bank rating by a 30–year–old Coral Gables–based ratings firm.
Newly released bank and credit–union ratings from BauerFinancial Inc.
indicate the banking industry is clawing its way back from the downturn
that sent financial institutions into a tailspin.
Florida Business Bank has received a “4–Star” rating from
BauerFinancial’s newest performance survey. The company rates banks
and credit unions on a quarterly basis using its Star system, with “5” being
Florida Business Bank in Melbourne sees surge in lending, is firmly back ongrowth track; shines with ‘4–Star’ performance in latest BauerFinancial ratings
The quarterly data is subjected to a “thor-
ough analysis” and compared with historical
data for consistency. Upon completion of the
analysis, a star rating is assigned to the bank or
credit union.
The percentage of banks recommended by
BauerFinancial (for example, rated 4–Stars or
5–Stars) is approaching 69.5 percent, a number
the industry has not seen since the fourth
quarter of 2007.
On the flip side, only eight banks failed
during the fourth quarter of 2012 while 43
improved enough to be removed from “Bauer’s
Troubled and Problematic Report.”
Excluding the three banks that failed so far
this year, troubled and problematic banks now
stand at 663, a number not seen in over four
years, or since the third quarter of 2008.
Florida Business Bank, with one location,
has roughly $115 million in assets.
“We’re small, but we’re mighty,” said Norris.
“And we’re proud of that. We think it’s going to
be a great year for our bank.”
the highest and “0” the lowest score.
BauerFinancial is an independent rating
service. No institution pays for its rating, and no
institution can “avoid a rating.”
Florida Business Bank is the only locally
based bank to receive the 4–Star rating from
BauerFinancial covering the last quarter.
“We have great ratios. The regulators like
what we’re doing and we were rewarded with
BauerFinancial’s 4–Star rating, which is a nice
recognition,” said Norris.
He continued, “Our goal is have a 4.5 rating
by fall and 5 by the end of this year. I think we
can do it. We have a great team of people at this
bank. They are dedicated to serving the
customer. I’m working alongside some of the
finest people I’ve ever worked with in my
30–year career in this industry.”
Each bank and credit union in the U.S. is
required to file a detailed financial report with
federal regulators four times a year.
BauerFinancial obtains this data in its raw
form from the government.
Bill Norris is president and chief executive officer of Florida Business Bank on North Harbor City Boulevard in Melbourne.His bank is seeing strong lending growth and has posted one of its best quarters. Florida Business Bank has earned oneof the highest ratings from BauerFinancial, a respected, independent ratings firm, for its financial performance.
BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth
Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationAPRIL 1, 2013 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 11
BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS
By Ken Datzman
VIERA — The Brevard Zoo, a startup
community–build project that uniquely
involved more than 16,000 volunteers nearly
two decades ago, has grown into one of the
region’s most visible and successful family
entertainment complexes.
The organization even posted record
attendance in 2012 and was ranked among
America’s most popular zoos by TripAdvisor.
The local facility holds the No. 8 spot on
TripAdvisor’s “Popularity Index of America’s
Top 10 Zoos.”
“It was quite an honor for the Brevard
Zoo to gain that ranking,” said business-
woman Jackie Barker, who sits on the Zoo’s
board of directors and is president of area
firm Sky Advertising. “You can check
TripAdvisor and see what people from
around the nation are saying about us. The
Brevard Zoo has evolved into a very success-
ful enterprise.”
“I can say that the ‘buzz’ is certainly out
there about the Brevard Zoo,” added Brevard
Zoo board member Mary Ann Sperando.
Last year, the Brevard Zoo saw a total of
401,837 visitors, a 10 percent increase over
2011’s number and its best performance
ever. The 2012 tally does not include guests
for “Boo at the Zoo” in October or those who
visited the attraction “Treetop Trek,” a
challenge course. The latter drew an
additional 32,883 guests.
In tallying the 2012 record number, the
Brevard Zoo has successfully expanded its
reach into bordering counties and beyond,
under the leadership of Executive Director
Keith Winsten.
“It was an exciting year for the Brevard
Zoo,” said Winsten. “Our visitor increase has
come from the surrounding counties and the
tourism market. We are experiencing nice
growth, to the point where we are seeing
almost 40 percent of our guests come from
outside the county. They recognize that ‘our
zoo’ is ‘their zoo’ and they are bringing their
dollars here.”
Contributing to the Brevard Zoo’s growth
and its ability to fulfill its conservation
mission while adding attractions, which
helps drive traffic to the destination, is the
longtime community fund–raiser “Safari
Under the Stars.”
The program has consistently raised tens
of thousands of dollars for the Zoo on an
annual basis. The funding is helping the
Businesses see ‘Safari Under the Stars,’ Brevard Zoo’s main fund–raiser, as ahighly visible marketing platform; April 27 event expands with VIP reception
private, not–for–profit organization, one of
only a small number of such zoos in America,
continue to make investments in key areas,
including new technologies and education
programs for the community.
“It’s our largest fund–raiser and we’re
spicing it up this year with a special VIP
reception before the main event,” said
Barker, who is the 2013 Safari Under the
Stars committee chairwoman, working with
Sperando, the event’s vice chairwoman.
The gala will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday,
April 27. All guests attending Safari Under
the Stars will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, full bars,
and a dinner (catered by Carrabba’s Italian
Grill on North Wickham Road), followed by
dessert, specialty coffees, and dancing at
“Safari After Dark.”
Channel 6 news anchor Lauren Rowe will
be the master of ceremonies. The program
will include an auction and raffles. Specially
planned for the event will be naming
opportunities for the Zoo’s newest members
— a jaguar cub and two Masai giraffe. A
“Raffle Walk” with prizes is also planned.
And, the winner of this year’s grand raffle
will be announced. The raffle prize will
include a trip for four to Chicago with VIP
behind–the–scenes experiences at the
Lincoln Park Zoo and Shedd Aquarium.
Tickets for the grand raffle are available
to anyone and do not require attendance at
Safari Under the Stars. Tickets can be
purchased by calling the development
department at 254–9453, extension 234.
The title sponsor of the 2013 Safari
Under the Stars is ndtArtemis. “We are so
pleased to be developing a relationship with
them and with many other companies in the
community,” said Sperando.
“They were the title sponsor last year, too.
Karen Davis, our new development director,
is doing an incredible job leading the effort to
build these relationships with businesses
and organizations. We are seeing a lot of new
businesses support Safari Under the Stars,
which is exciting.”
Holiday Builders and Green Turtle
Market of Indian Harbour Beach are the
event’s presenting sponsors. Holiday is
presenting the VIP reception and Green
Turtle the “Safari After Dark” party
following the main event.
The entry–level sponsorship for Safari
Under the Stars is $500, which admits you to
the VIP gathering. It will include food,
“signature” entertainment, an auction, and
some surprises.
Davis said the overall sponsorship support from the business community for
Safari Under the Stars has been uplifting. “People are stepping up, rallying
around the event as sponsors. It’s truly a reciprocal partnership with the
sponsors because we are able to highlight and help publicize their enterprises
through the Safari Under the Stars marketing format. We try to demonstrate
our appreciation through recognition,” she said.
A range of sponsorship levels with various benefits that reflect the Brevard
Zoo’s commitment to highlight its donors are available. To date, the VIP Pegasus
sponsors at the $5,000 level include: Central Florida Hand Center, Disney
Cruise Line, DNC Parks and Resorts at Kennedy Space Center, Four C’s
Nursery, Shelter Mortgage, Sperando Family Foundation, and Toyota of
Melbourne.
“Safari Under the Stars reflects the uniqueness of the Zoo and the fun of the
zoo,” said Winsten. “We think it presents great value to sponsors, money that is
well invested in the community, because the zoo touches everybody. The
exposure of this event is so positive. The Safari Under the Stars committee has
been very innovative in its approach and that is what you have to do in this
economy and market.”
He added, “People can feel really good that the Zoo is a wonderful steward of
their resources. Their funds are being used effectively. We continue to receive
additional requests for our education programs in the community as the need
keeps growing.”
For more information about sponsorship opportunities for Safari Under the
Stars, contact the Brevard Zoo development department at 254–9453.
It takes a lot of planning and coordination to make the ‘Safari Under the Stars’ benefit asuccess. The committee members working toward that goal are, from left: Becky Crews,Jackie Barker, Karen Davis, Jerri Figueroa, Cathy Johnson, Adrienne Chandler, and TomBedor. Back: Lysee Kierstein, Sara Petrosky, Laura Bomalaski, Jill Reyes, Aimee Balda, JessicaAssam, Mary Ann Sperando, and Amy Bird.
BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth
APRIL 1, 2013Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising Information
BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 12
Space Coast Early Intervention, Revolutions Cyclery ‘Cycle Jam’ set for April 21 at Florida Tech in MelbourneSpace Coast Early Intervention Center and Revolutions
Cyclery will host the fourth annual “Cycle Jam for the
Kids” on Sunday, April 21. This is a non–competitive ride
through scenic Brevard and parts of Indian River County.
It will be held at Crawford Greene on the campus of
Florida Tech in Melbourne. Registration opens at 6 a.m.
Riders may choose from four distances: English Century
(100 mile), Metric Century (62 mile), Third Century (33
mile) and a Family Fun (10 mile) ride.
The cost to enter is $40 per person before April 21 and
$45 on the day of the event.
The program includes an “Educational Bike Rodeo,”
designed to help kids learn the rules of the road and bike
safety while enjoying an opportunity to practice their
cycling skills.
The “Family Fun Ride” encourages families to ride
together. This escorted ride is great for families with young
children. Children too young to ride a 20–inch bike may be
pulled in bike trailers or put in child carriers. The entry fee
Riders have the option to fund–raise with incentive prizes
for the top raisers. New this year is a VIP tent (includes a
catered lunch and a message). riders or individuals who
raise $350 will get a cycling jersey. Volunteers can e–mail
The SCEIC is a nonprofit therapeutic preschool serving
children both with and without special needs.
for those aged 16 and younger is half price, with a paying
adult.
A “pre–ride jam party” sponsored by Publix Supermar-
ket Charities will take place from 12 to 7 p.m. on April 20
at Broken Barrel Tavern on April 20.
The SCEIC is seeking Cycle Jam riders and volunteers.
Riders can visit www.SCEIC.com for registration details.
Brevard Theatrical Ensemble to perform ‘We Are’ at Palm Bay Library on April 17The Palm Bay Library, 1520 Port Malabar Blvd. NE, will host a free performance of the Brevard Theatrical Ensemble
at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, April 17. The program is titled “We Are . . . Women of Courage.”
BTE cast members Beth Davison, Gail Doscher, Doris Gonzalez, Margaret Pescar and Frankie Rinaldi will offer
portrayals of women — some famous, some not so famous– whose courage and savvy forever changed the lives of others.
“We Are” is a show that was first performed in 1990. It has since been seen by more than 200,000 BTE audience
members. “We are excited to host this performance,” said Christine Sullivan, who oversees Palm Bay Library. “Lady Gail,
one of the founders of the BTE, has been a patron of our library for more than 20 years. Our reference staff can’t wait to
see their research in action on April 17. We hope lots of people come to see this show.”
For more information about the program, call Palm Bay Library at 952–4519.
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BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS
Sams House at Pine Island on North Tropical Trail on
Merritt Island has announced its schedule of events for
April, “Wildlife Month.”
The programs are offered free of charge to the
community.
l Story Hour: “Raccoon at Clear Creek Road” —
Saturday, April 6, 10 to 11 a.m. Staff members will read
the story and use puppets to introduce children and their
parents to a day in the life of a wild–raccoon family.
Participants will make and take raccoon puppets after
the story.
l Story Hour: “Monarch Butterfly of Aster Way” —
Saturday, April 13, 3 to 4 p.m. Staff members will read
the butterfly book and use puppets to teach children and
their parents about these amazing creatures.
l “Bald Eagles” — Saturday, April 20, 10 to 11 a.m. Al
McKinley, volunteer with the Merritt Island National
Wildlife Refuge, will give a presentation on our national
bird, followed by a short hike to the active eagle nest–
viewing area.
l “Fun Facts About Indian River Lagoon Fish” —
Friday, April 26, 3 to 4 p.m. Land Manager Scott Taylor
will discuss the nearly 400 fish species in the Indian
River Lagoon.
l “Animal Baby Shower” — Saturday, April 27, 10:30
a.m. to 1 p.m. Help the Florida Wildlife Hospital
celebrate 40 years with an Animal Baby Shower. Bring
in donations for the center and meet the “Animal
Ambassadors.” Check our Facebook page for a list of
items needed by the hospital.
Sams House on Merritt Island announces its schedule of community programs for April — ‘Wildlife Month’l “Guided Hike” — Saturday, April 27, 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Enjoy the beautiful palm hammock on this one–half
mile–guided hike where participants will look for
evidence of the wildlife that abounds on Pine Island.
l “Historic House and Cabin Tour” — every Thursday,
3 to 3:30 p.m.
l “Pine Island Horseback Trail Rides” — Sunday,
April 14, 21 and 28. Explore the Pine Island Conserva-
tion Area off Pine Island Road by horseback. Reserva-
tions and payment are required. Call Donna Hakanson,
Desert Acres Stables owner, at 759–1605. The 90–minute
rides are $50.
l “Brevard Wildlife Corridor Expedition” — April 6–
21; Sams House at Pine Island is featured on several
trips. For more details, visit www.facebook.com/
ExpeditionBrevard.
Local Not Quite Right Comedy Improv Troupe to perform at the Henegar CenterThe Space Coast’s own Not Quite Right Comedy Improv Troupe will be performing on the stage and in the classroom
at the Henegar Center for the Arts in downtown Melbourne. NQR’s rapid–fire improv comedy will entertain audiences
for two shows at 8 p.m. on April 19 and 20, in “Upstairs at the Henegar.” Those interested in trying their hand at this
unscripted, fast–paced humor can sign up for the NQR Improv Academy opening the following week.
“I used to teach improv years ago, and in the last year started offering occasional Saturday workshops,” said Jessica
Taylor, NQR founder. “But it didn’t seem like that was enough. So I’ve opened the Improv Academy to fill that need” in
the market for this type of instruction.
The academy will give students ages 16 and up the opportunity to learn beginning improv and free play through
regular “drop–in classes” or to sign up for Level 1 of the academy with the goal of becoming an improvisational artist
and eventually joining NQR on stage.
The first drop–in class will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. on April 22 at the Henegar Center. Registration at
www.jessicataylorproductions.com is $10, or participants may pay $15 at the door. Class size is limited to 25 students.
Level 1 of the academy is from 7 to 9 p.m. beginning April 29 and will run for a total of six consecutive Mondays, also
at the Henegar. Registration for these classes is $155 online or $175 at the door. Class size is limited to 16 students.
Tickets to the NQR show are $15 and may be purchased through the Henegar Center Box Office at 723–8698 or at
www.henegar.org.
“I’m really excited about the future of acting and improvisation in the community,” said Taylor.
“Improv is an art form all its own and can be very beneficial to those wanting to hone their acting skills or people
who just want to become comfortable in their own personal interactions and public speaking.”
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CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY OF FLORIDA, REGISTRATION #CH180, IS REGISTERED WITH THE STATE OF FLORIDA UNDER THE SOLICITATION OF CONTRIBUTIONS ACT, 1991. A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
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APRIL 1, 2013Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising InformationBREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 14
BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWSUCF’s Procurement Technical Assistance Center helps areacompany gain key government certification, grow its revenues
ORLANDO — Morris and Associates Chief Executive Officer Ellen Yarckin had built a
terrific company that was a great candidate for doing government contract work. She
knew the contracts were out there. And the only barrier standing in the way of winning
more of them was a certification to help her compete better for those contracts. But she
wasn’t being approved for that government certification and she didn’t understand why.
Morris and Associates is a Lake County, Fla., woman–owned business specializing in
cost–effective infrastructure rehabilitation. The company provides cost–effective, non–
invasive solutions for repairing and cleaning leaky water and sewage systems. It restores
existing water–system infrastructure elements to new, watertight, corrosion–resistant
conditions, and provides clean groundwater, which helps protect the environment.
The firm’s client list is comprised of municipalities, government agencies and large
commercial enterprises. Morris and Associates crews have completed projects in Florida,
Georgia, Alabama, North and South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas. And the client list
keeps growing, she said.
Yarckin became the majority owner of the company and took the helm in 2011 after
deciding to follow her lifelong passion of “protecting the environment” by helping ensure
the availability of clean water for the community–at–large. Larry Morris, an expert in
utilities and general construction, had founded the company in 2003. From day one, it was
clear to Yarckin that the company’s growth potential was significant.
As CEO, the challenge for Yarckin was to determine the best ways to realize that
growth potential. When she learned that government agencies sponsor Woman–Owned
Business Enterprise (WBE) programs that help woman entrepreneurs compete for
contracting opportunities, she got to work submitting certification applications.
She submitted her first application to Orange County but she was “disappointed and
disillusioned” to learn that her certification application had not been approved. So she
decided to appeal the decision. But before she did, Yarckin sought assistance from the
Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) in the Small Business Development
Center at the University of Central Florida.
PTAC’s Derek Hudson met with Yarckin and assisted her in developing a strategy that
would help guarantee certification approval. Hudson, as a former U.S Navy supply corps
officer and consultant on state of Florida projects totaling more than $700 million, is no
“stranger to government language and processes.”
Together, they determined that the next Morris and Associates’ certification applica-
tion would require additional substantiating documentation and greater clarity about how
the application met and exceeded the certifying agency’s policies and requirements.
Having reviewed each of the areas of concern expressed by the county’s certification
review board and helped Yarckin methodically address each issue in writing, he also
coached her regarding how to present her case at an upcoming review board meeting at
which she would actually make an appeal presentation to board members. Ellen Yarckin
walked in prepared, polished and with confidence and gained unanimous board approval.
Morris and Associates is now a certified woman–owned small business with several
municipal governments as well as a certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)
with the state of Florida.
“Thank you so much for taking the time to meet with me to go over my WBE applica-
tions,” Yarckin wrote to Hudson and the Procurement Technical Assistance Center. “You
answered all of my questions and took the time I needed to master the process. I appreci-
ate all your help and guidance in contract negotiations. You have helped me change the
way I approach and prepare for a business meeting and, because of your help, I landed
additional contracts.”
Almost immediately after receiving assistance from PTAC, Morris and Associates
revenues increased by 15 percent, she said. Overall company growth for the year 2012 was
more than 100 percent. Also, since following Hudson’s guidance, Yarckin has applied for
and received her DBE certification with the Florida Department of Transportation and
her SBA Woman–Owned Small Business certification with the federal government.
When asked about her experience with the SBDC at UCF’s PTAC, Yarckin said, “The
SBDC is an amazing resource that we are very lucky to have in Central Florida. It is
comprised of a group of successful people who have decided to give back to community. It
is worthwhile to check out this resource to get advice on all aspects of business. And best
of all — it is free!”
For more information, visit www.SBDCorlando.com.
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BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWSPalm Bay’s Jim Hamor honored in Tallahassee as theFlorida Career Firefighter of Year for his ‘heroic actions’
Palm Bay Fire–Rescue Lt. Jim Hamor has received the highest recognition for career
firefighters in the state of Florida.
Hamor was named Florida Career Firefighter of the Year for 2012.
He accepted the award at a special ceremony in Tallahassee and was recognized by the
governor and cabinet during a regular meeting.
Hamor was accompanied by his wife, Andrea, Palm Bay Fire Chief Jim Stables, and
several of his colleagues. Hamor was selected from a pool of dozens of nominations
representing thousands of firefighters throughout the state.
Stables nominated Hamor for his “heroic actions” in July of 2012 when he put himself
in harm’s way to save the life of a woman in distress.
“It was this action among many others that stood out as a shining example of what
true character is all about,” Stables said. “Lt. Hamor epitomizes the fire–rescue commit-
ment to always do the right thing.”
During the award presentation State Fire Marshal and Chief Financial Officer Jeff
Atwater read an account of Hamor’s heroic actions.
On July 22, 2012, at approximately 7:30 a.m. Lt. Hamor was heading home after
completing his shift. While driving on Babcock Street near Port Malabar Boulevard, Lt.
Hamor noticed a slow–moving vehicle. The vehicle was heading south toward him. Lt.
Hamor glanced at the driver and noticed she appeared to be in distress. The vehicle
continued southbound and crossed the median into oncoming traffic. At that time, Lt.
Hamor turned around and positioned his vehicle in front of hers in an attempt to get her
to stop.
Once he stopped the vehicle, he found the driver unconscious and barely breathing.
Firefighter Matthew St. Pierre, who was also on his way home, pulled up to render aid.
The woman stopped breathing and the two firefighters immediately began CPR while an
off–duty police officer controlled traffic in the area. Lt. Hamor notified emergency dis-
patchers to send rescue units. The woman was stabilized, transported to the hospital and
survived what appeared to be a heart attack.
“For his selfless and decisive action many lives were saved that day as well as that
individual,” Atwater read. “For this reason Lt. James Hamor is being recognized as
Florida’s Career Firefighter of the Year and we thank him for his service.”
Hamor began his career with Palm Bay Fire–Rescue in February 1988. He rose to the
rank of driver engineer in December 1996 and to the rank of lieutenant in September
2007. Hamor serves on the Technical Rescue Team and is “always available to mentor
new paramedics.”
His personnel jacket contains numerous letters of commendation by citizens, supervi-
sors and city officials. He is also an adjunct professor at Brevard Community College’s
Institute of Public Safety on the Melbourne campus, where he has taught medical first
responder and EMT and paramedic lab, clinical and lecture classes since 2008.
In September 2012 the Palm Bay Fire–Rescue Department honored Hamor with its
Medal of Valor and a Life–Saving Award for his actions during this incident.
According to Hamor the most rewarding part of that ceremony was the unexpected
presence of the patient and her family and their heartfelt thanks.
“Lt. Hamor is just one of the many reasons why Palm Bay is such a great place to call
home,” said Palm Bay Mayor William Capote. “We are so proud of him and appreciate all
he, and of all the men and women who dedicate their lives to public safety, do on a daily
basis to serve our citizens. That is what we are all about.”
Brevard Rescue Mission to host luncheonBrevard Rescue Mission will host its fourth annual “Women Who Care Share” ladies’
luncheon from 11:15 to 1 p.m. on Friday, April 19, at the Hilton Melbourne Rialto. The
event will highlight the work of the mission, which is to break the cycle of homelessness by
providing homeless women with children housing and resources, which “enables them to
achieve self–reliance in one to two years.” Stacia Glavas, the founder and CEO, will also
share a testimony from a former client who has achieved self–sufficiency. Because this is a
benefit for the women and children of Brevard Rescue Mission, guests will be asked to
make a donation during the luncheon. Event sponsorships are also available. RSVP to
information can be found at www.BrevardRescueMission.org.
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BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 16
BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS
Invent Now Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to
honoring and fostering invention and creativity, has
announced that its nationally acclaimed Camp Invention
summer program is returning to Melbourne for 2013.
The camp is a weeklong summer day program for
children entering grades one through six, created in
partnership with the National Inventors Hall of Fame
and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
The program engages children to discover their own
innate creativity and inventiveness through hands–on
science, technology, engineering and math content.
“Based on feedback from the country’s finest school
districts, Camp Invention has earned a reputation as a
leader in high–quality summer programming,” said
Michael Oister, chief operating officer for Invent Now.
“This has helped the organization grow to a national
program serving over 77,000 children. Parents tell us
Camp Invention improves their child’s outlook on
learning and increases their child’s interest in using
science to solve problems.”
Ascension Catholic School will host Camp Invention
during the week of June 17 and June 21. This year’s
program is “Geo–Quest,” which features the “I Can
Invent: Launchitude” module, where children combine
physics and re–engineered household items to create the
ultimate “Duck–Chucking Device.”
Each day children rotate through integrated modules
that employ creative thinking to solve real–world
challenges. Children learn vital 21st century life skills
such as problem–solving and teamwork through
Ascension Catholic School to host Camp Invention in June; weeklong summer day program for youngstersimaginative play.
Even if a child has participated in Camp Invention in
the past, he or she “will benefit from new adventures
throughout the week.”
To register a child for these programs or to learn more
about Invent Now programming, visit
www.campinvention.org or call (800) 968–4332.
Since Camp Invention’s inception, the program has
grown to include more than 1,200 school partnerships in
49 states. In 2012, more than 77,000 children partici-
pated nationwide.
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office continues to
support Invent Now’s mission to inspire creativity and
inventive thinking in children of all ages.
Central Florida Chapter of JDRF to host its annual Brevard ‘Walk to Cure Diabetes’Walkers have already started preparing for Saturday, April 6, as they begin to raise funds for research to find a cure
for diabetes and its complications.
Walkers from all across Central Florida will come together at Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach with the goal to raise
more than $153,000, with this year’s theme of “Mission: Possible.”
“This is such a great opportunity for the community to come together to raise money and awareness,” said JDRF
Board of Directors President Joseph Ranaldi. “Diabetes has a huge impact on many Central Florida families. Insulin is
a necessity, not a cure.”
Registration begins at 8 a.m. with the 5K starting in the “Memory Mall” area at 9:30 a.m. Walkers are asked to
register at www.jdrf.org/centralflorida.
“We never lose sight of our ultimate goal to remove T1D from our lives forever,” said JDRF Director Martin
Bernstine. “However, along the path to a cure we are inspired by the many achievements toward the treatment and
prevention of this disease. The outpouring of support and commitment of people enables JDRF to continue funding
cutting–edge research.”
The Walk to Cure Diabetes is supported by many local companies and in–kind donors. The event will feature a
“great day of family fun and entertainment” and diabetes–related vendors.
JDRF was founded in 1970 by the parents of children with Type 1 diabetes, a disease that strikes children, adoles-
cents, and adults suddenly, makes them insulin–dependent for life, and carries the constant threat of devastating
complications. Since its inception, JDRF has provided more than $1.6 billion to diabetes research worldwide. More than
“80 percent of JDRF’s expenditures directly support research and research–related education.” For more information,
visit www.jdrf.org or call (407) 774–2166.
MCC
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Black and white if possibleDr. & Mrs. Martin AvalosBankFIRSTBrowning’s Pharmacy & Health Care, Inc.Ms. Mary Anna BrusheCertified General Contractors, Inc.Curri PropertiesDivine Mercy Catholic CommunityMr. & Mrs. Tony GinevraDr. & Mrs. Michael GreeneMr. & Mrs. John McGintyMr. & Mrs. Campbell McKeggDr. & Mrs. Michael McLaughlin ‘76Melbourne Architectural Millwork Company/ Mr. & Mrs. Tom Soyk
Nelson Engineering/Ms. Carolyn SeringerNotre Dame Club of MelbourneOur Lady of Grace Catholic CommunityOur Lady of Lourdes Catholic CommunityRiverside Animal Hospital/ Rebecca Colombo, DVMRobinson Insurance Inc./ Mr. & Mrs. Frederic Robinson Mr. & Mrs. George SantiagoRev. Francis X. J. SmithState Farm/Mr. & Mrs. Eric PonceThe Sun Shoppe Café/Mr. & Mrs. Long DoVolk Law Offices, PAMr. Ron Young
Classroom iPad Sponsors
green & gold gala benefactorsClassroom Technology SponsorsAnonymousAscension Catholic CommunityMr. & Mrs. Michael BurkeJ.P. Donovan Construction, IncMelbourne Terrace Rehabilitation CenterSt. John the Evangelist Catholic CommunityThree-W International
Media Center LapTop Lab SponsorsChurch of Our SaviourGator Chrysler Dodge Jeep/Mr. Joe KellyHealth First Medical GroupHoly Name of Jesus Catholic CommunityMsgr. David P. PageDr. & Mrs. José Reilova
special thanks toPat Amedee & Sandpiper Florist for the beautiful decorations
& The Black Tulip for the fabulous dinner
Melbourne Central Catholic High School cordially thanks the many volunteers and benefactors who made our 2013 green & gold gala a success.
Honorary ChairpersonsDonna & Michael McLaughlin, MD ‘76
ChairpersonsFreddie & Mike ErdmanKim & Ken Vilardebo
Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationAPRIL 1, 2013 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 17
BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS
ORLANDO — The Florida Home Builders Associa-
tion–sponsored Southeast Building Conference (SEBC)
will celebrate its 35th anniversary this year and is
marking the occasion with changes that it hopes will keep
the show “vibrant and relevant for years to come.”
For the first time, the event moves into the new South
Hall of the Orange County Convention Center, giving
exhibitors and delegates a fresh venue for the vast array
of building–industry products and services to be displayed
at the July 11–13 show.
To make sure exhibitors get maximum attention, this
year’s show schedule has set aside designated hours (12 to
3 p.m. each day) for homebuilders, remodelers, and allied
construction–related professionals to tour the displays.
There will be specialty pavilions featuring “Hurricane
Alley,” “Green Building,” and “Masonry.” The Florida
Department of Community Affairs sponsors the hurri-
cane–mitigation displays while the Florida Masonry
Association presents exhibits as part of its co–location
partnership with SEBC.
As the “only major building industry trade show in the
South this year,” SEBC expects to draw a “large audience
to its world–class educational programs.” The program
will include all 14 hours that Florida contractors need to
achieve their continuing–education requirement.
Top key elements of SEBC over the years — the New
Southern Home and the Aurora Awards — will remain
staples of the show experience.
The New Southern Home is being built by Nathan
Cross of NWC Construction Inc., and will be a “living
Southeast Building Conference to celebrate 35th year with new format and venue at Orange County Centerlaboratory” for builders and consumers with a keen
interest in Green building and energy–efficiency.
The Aurora Awards, the premier building–industry
design competition in the Southeast, will honor its
winners on Saturday evening, July 13, at the Rosen
Centre Hotel.
For more details, visit www.sebcshow.com and
www.TheAuroras.com.
VIERA — An idea of two retired military wives has culminated in $6,702 in donations for the Veterans Transitional
Facility in Melbourne, which provides housing for homeless veterans.
Nancy Carroll and Judi Bickmore of Indian River Colony Club in Viera, produced and printed the $11 “Simply Soup”
cookbook, with sponsorship by the Indian River Chapel Foundation and recipes by IRCC Sous Chef Kathy Green.
On March 6, the pair presented checks from the cookbook sales and a recent golf tournament to Audra Leary, director
for the Melbourne facility that has housed 40 veterans and family members so far this year. IRCC is a fully maintained
and gated golf–course community of nearly 800 homes on 453 acres in Viera.
Leary said she was “overwhelmed by the generosity” shown by the residents of IRCC, which began as a retirement
destination for military officers. “We’ve seen so much support from that community. Several of their clubs have helped
us with clothing, furniture, housewares and even a generator, but the magnitude of this last donation caught me off
guard. We feel really honored,” she said.
The goal of the Veterans Transitional Facility, which is affiliated with Vietnam & All Veterans of Brevard, is to
transition homeless veterans, some with families, into a stable housing situation.
“We have a veteran with a spouse and four children who just moved into permanent housing,” said Leary. “Their
entire kitchen has been outfitted with donations from IRCC. We’re just so grateful.”
Visit www.IndianRiverColonyClub.com or call (877) 298–8124 for more details about the program. The Veterans
Transitional Facility is located at 700 East Fee Ave. The phone number is 409–8167.
Charity benefits from cookbook sales; IRCC organization helps veterans transition
Morgan elected chairman of commissionJoseph Morgan, a former mayor of Cocoa Beach, was recently re–elected chairman of the Brevard County Historical
Commission. The announcement was made by Michael Boonstra, director. Also elected were Bob Swenson, first vice
chairman, and Roz Foster, second vice chairperson. Dan Reiter was appointed to the Historical Commission by Brevard
County Commissioner Chuck Nelson.
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APRIL 1, 2013Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising InformationBREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 18
PIRTEK made a substantial climb, to the No. 260 spot on
the list. In 2011, the company was No. 389. PIRTEK has
jumped 129 spots in three years.
Only companies that supply full franchise–disclosure
documents verified by “Entrepreneur” are eligible for
listing consideration. The magazine uses a mathematical
formula that considers financial strength, stability, growth,
and size of the franchise system.
“While reviewing the Franchise 500 listings, I noticed
that many systems, including some very well–known
brands, had lost many franchise or company–owned units
during the difficult years,” said O’Kane.
“For PIRTEK, the light started to shine through in 2011
and our system was able to enjoy a very strong 2012. We
are now seeing candidates who are interested in franchis-
ing, having confidence again knowing it’s a great time to
start a business. Lending is becoming more available to
new entrepreneurs, which will help us focus again on unit
growth and building the PIRTEK brand.”
PIRTEK USA is listed on the U.S. Small Business
Administration registry and has relationships with
“preferred” status SBA lenders.
O’Kane said the recession forced his franchise owners to
look beyond the construction industry, “which has always
been low–hanging fruit for us.”
“One of the things we really stress to our owners is
work hard to diversify the business in order to have heavy
receivables spread across hundreds of companies.”
He said PIRTEK franchise owners pursued that goal
during the five–year downturn.
“They really did a fantastic job getting into municipali-
ties, manufacturing facilities, and other industries. As the
construction pie got smaller and smaller, the other
industries started to grow for us. Now, construction is
starting to come back in many communities. We are
looking forward to that growth engine again. We’re upbeat.
We think it’s going to be a very good year for PIRTEK
franchise owners,” said O’Kane.
Reserve your seat today!Space is limited.
Y0089_EL3250 CMS Accepted 01132013 Health First Health Plans is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. The benefi t information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefi ts. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefi ts, formulary, pharmacy network, premium and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. A sales person will be present with information and applications. For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings, call toll free 1.877.904.4909 (TDD/TTY 711).
www.HealthFirstHealthPlans.org
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