vol. 32 no. 5 february 3, 2014 $1.00 a weekly space coast...

Vol. 32 No. 5 February 3, 2014 $1.00 A Weekly Space Coast Business Magazine printed in Brevard County, Fla. since 1984

Please see Health First Heart Center, page 19

BBN photo — Adrienne B. Roth

By Ken Datzman

Years ago Rockledge–based Health First Inc., the largest hospital operator in

Brevard County, made a long–term commitment to the health of the community by

investing in and constructing a new heart center on its flagship campus at Holmes

Regional Medical Center in Melbourne.

The heart–care teams there, as well as the teams at Cape Canaveral Hospital in

Cocoa Beach which is also an interventional center and part of Health First, have

saved lives.

With cardiovascular disease trending upward, although the mortality rate is

down, Health First is working to better inform consumers about heart–attack

symptoms and the right actions to take to increase the chance for survival.

Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, costs the U.S. $312

billion each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This

total includes lost productivity.

As medical procedures, technologies, programs, and protocols have evolved, the

survival rates of heart–attack victims have increased alongside these advances

made over the past decades. Now, the long–term key to improving heart–attack

outcomes in the future may lie in raising patient awareness of the symptoms and

reducing delays for treatment once symptoms are detected.

Hospitals across the nation are doing their part in beating the clock. They have

successfully raced to reduce the so–called “door–to–balloon time” for a heart–attack

patient to 90 minutes or less. This scenario describes the amount of time between

when a patient arrives at the hospital and when he or she receives percutaneous

coronary intervention, or PCI, such as angioplasty, in which a catheter with a small

balloon at the tip is inserted and inflated to open a blocked artery.

“Our average ‘door–to–device’ time is 65 to 70 minutes,” said board–certified

interventional cardiologist Dr. Cesar Jara of the Health First Medical Group, in an

interview conducted at the Health First Heart Center at HRMC.

“We cannot do it faster. We’re already down to 65 to 70 minutes. What we need

to emphasize in the community is the importance of identifying symptoms of heart

attack. We need to raise awareness of this. If someone has symptoms of a heart

attack and ignores them, after three hours there is significant damage to the heart

and after six hours there is permanent damage.”

February is “American Heart Month.”

Dr. Jara and his colleagues are reaching out to the community in support of the

nationwide February initiative that involves a host of organizations, from the

American Heart Association to the American College of Cardiology.

Throughout the month of February, Health First will be conducting heart

lectures at various locations around the county. These lectures are free of charge for

attendees. The series opens on Wednesday, Feb. 5, at the HRMC auditorium in

Melbourne. Dr. Mark Rosenbloom will talk about “Living with Peripheral Vascular

Disease.” His presentation is from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. The reservation number is

434–4335. The full lecture schedule is posted at www.Health–First.org.

Dr. Cesar Jara, a cardiologist with the Health First Medical Group, says it’s important for people to know thesymptoms of heart attack because the sooner the patient can be brought to the hospital by EMS personnel thebetter the chance for his or her survival and recovery. The symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, andpain or discomfort in the arms or shoulders. Dr. Jara is at the Heart Center at HRMC in Melbourne.

Heart Center at Holmeslooks to raise awarenessof heart–attack symptoms

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Capt. John Heatherington, commanding officer, Naval

Ordinance Test Unit, U.S. Navy, administered the oath of

office to the new chairwoman, officers and board of

directors.

Nancy Brower, of Community Bank of the South, is the

2014 chairwoman of the board.

The 2014 officers and directors inducted included

immediate chairwoman, Cindy Dropeski, Intracoastal

Insurance Inc.; 2014 chair–elect, Jeanna Merrifield, Wild

Ocean Seafood Market; Anthony Salorio, PNC Bank; Tim

Cerullo, Wuesthoff Health System; Tim Cook, Sam’s Club;

Beth Courtney, Courtney & Braswell Team of VALIC

Financial Advisors; Peggy Crooks, TD Bank; Dawn Faust,

Space Coast Cancer Center; Dave Copp, Culligan Water

Products; Robyn Killary–Greene, Blue Sky Insurance

Agency of Brevard Inc.; Bill Griffith, Health First Inc.;

Marcus Harley, PNC Bank; Tim Macy, Canaveral Port

Authority; Moses Harvin II, American Services Technology

Inc.; and Tiffany Johnston, Progressive Document

Destruction.

The list continues: Sheri Kocher, Florida Power & Light

Co.; Brenda Fettrow, YMCA; Joseph Mayer, Lockheed

Martin; Anna Palermo, Bright House Networks LLC;

Dean Rosenquist, Craig Technologies; David Russell, Ron

Jon Surf Shop of Florida Inc; Dave Spain, Comfort Inn &

Suites Resort; Dan Henn, Daniel Henn CPA; Christy

Galzerano, DoubleTree by Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront;

Geo Ropert, Brevard Family Partnership; Kristi Worley,

Waste Pro USA; Ron Nesbitt, Ronald Nesbitt Attorney at

Law; Danny Beard, Sun & Skin Care Research LLC; Dina

Reider–Hicks, Waste Management Inc.; Rich Hensel, Fish

Lips Waterfront Bar & Grill; John Byron, Sun State

Strategy Inc.; Mary Dyer, Florida Institute of Technology;

Tom Vani, Vani & Associates LLC; Tommy Alston,

(Lifetime Member); Al Trafford, Trafford Realty Co.

(Lifetime Member); and Leonard Spielvogel, (Lifetime

Member).

The major sponsors of the event were TD Bank &

Community Bank of the South. The table sponsors of the

event included Canaveral Port Authority, Craig Technolo-

gies, DoubleTree by Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront,

Florida Power & Light Co., Gray Robinson P.A., Health

First Inc., Ron Jon Surf Shop of Florida Inc. and Wuesthoff

Health System Inc.

MERRITT ISLAND — Leonard “Sandy” Sanderson

with Florida Power & Light Co. received the Cocoa Beach

Regional Chamber of Commerce’s highest honor, the

“Distinguished Service Award,” at the organization’s 46th

annual Installation Banquet Jan. 17 at the Hilton Cocoa

Beach Oceanfront Hotel.

More than 150 Chamber partners and their guests

attended the gala.

Sanderson joined Florida Power & Light in 1981, and

since his move to Brevard County he has been actively

involved as a volunteer in the community.

His high–level involvement with professional associa-

tions includes serving with such organizations as the

Brevard County Civilian Military Foundation, Junior

Achievement of the Space Coast, United Way of Brevard,

Cocoa Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce, Keep

Brevard Beautiful, and The Maxwell C. King Center for

the Performing Arts.

“Sandy is highly thought of in all circles, from the

United Way to serving our military community. He works

tirelessly for the betterment of all in Brevard. His quiet

leadership has touched an untold number of people

throughout our community,” said businessman Keith

Houston, vice president of Crest Cleaners & Laundry in

Brevard County.

Additional awards announced were the Ambassadors of

the Year, presented to Robert New with Blue Sky Insur-

ance Agency of Brevard, and the Council–Committee of the

Year, presented to the Chamber’s Convention & Visitors

Bureau.

Sanderson honored with Distinguished Service Award at Cocoa Beach Chamber’s annual Installation Banquet

Port Canaveral Seafood Festival to open Feb. 28The nonprofit Port Canaveral Association is set to present its Port Canaveral Seafood Festival. The family oriented

event will feature only “authentic local seafood” prepared by area chefs. There will be related exhibits, processing–plant

tours, activities for children and demonstrations. The Festival is scheduled Feb. 28–29 and March 1–2 at Port Canaveral

(Glen Cheek Drive). A $12 ticket at the gate or $10 in advance will admit you to all of the festivities. Children under the

age of 12 will be admitted free of charge. For the full schedule of events, visit www.PortCanaveralSeafood Festival.com.

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Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationFEBRUARY 3, 2014


BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 3

WASHINGTON — The board of directors of the Space

Foundation recently conducted its annual meeting,

electing its officers and directors.

Lon Levin, co–founder of XM Satellite Radio and

president of SkySevenVentures, was elected chairman of

the board. Retired Adm. James Ellis Jr., former com-

mander, U.S. Strategic Command, and former president

and chief executive officer of INPO, was elected vice

chairman. Dr. Kathryn Thornton, University of Virginia

professor and former NASA astronaut, was elected

secretary. Anita Antenucci, senior managing director for

Houlihan Lokey, was re–elected as treasurer.

Patricia Grace Smith, former associate administrator of

the Federal Aviation Administration and principal if Patti

Grace Smith Consulting LLC, was elected Executive

Committee Member–At–Large.

“We thank all of our board members for their hard work

and commitment to our mission,” said Elliot Pulham,

Space Foundation board member and chief executive

officer. “We are especially grateful to those who are retiring

from our board, and appreciate their years of dedicated

service.”

Retiring from the board is Martin Faga, former

president and chief executive officer of The MITRE Corp.,

and former director of the National Reconnaissance Office.

Faga served on the board of directors from January 2007

through January 2014, and was chairman of the board

from January 2012 through January 2014. He was elected

to the lifetime position of director emeritus.

Also retiring from the board and named life directors of

the Space Foundation:

l Barbara Barrett, president and chief executive officer

of Triple Creek Guest Ranch, and a former ambassador to

Finland. Barrett served as a director in 2007–2008,

resigning to become U.S. Ambassador to Finland. She was

re–elected to the board in 2010, and served as corporate

secretary 2010–2014.

l David Caddey, executive vice president of the Space

Missions Group for MacDonald, Dettwiler & Associates

Ltd., who served two terms from 2008–2014.

Elected to second terms on the board of directors:

l James Maser, vice president of corporate strategy and

development for GenCorp Inc.

l Kay Sears, president of Intelsat General.

Newly elected to the board of directors:

l Michael Gass, president and chief executive officer,

United Launch Alliance.

l Dr. Fritz Merkle, member of the executive board,

OHB System AG.

Returning board members: Richard Ambrose, executive

vice president, Lockheed Martin Space Systems Co.;

Dr. Wanda Austin, president and chief executive officer,

The Aerospace Corp.; Robert “Bud” Cramer, vice chairman,

Capitol Hill Consulting; Lynn Dugle, president, Raytheon

Intelligence and Information Systems; and John Elbon,

vice president and general manager, The Boeing Co. —

Space Exploration.

The list continues: P.J. O’Rourke, author and political

satirist; Dr. Ronald Sega, vice president and enterprise

executive for energy, Colorado State University and The

Ohio State University; Thomas Vice, corporate vice

president and president, Northrop Grumman Aerospace

Systems; and physician Dave Weldon, head of Dave

Weldon Consulting and a former U.S. representative from

Florida.

For more information about the organization, visit

www.SpaceFoundation.org, or follow on Facebook,

LinkedIn and Twitter.

Space Foundation elects its officers and directors, XM Satellite Radio co–founder Levin new chairman

Port Canaveral Association presents check to SCCFOn Dec. 5, the Port Canaveral Association board members and business leaders met to present the Space Coast

Cancer Foundation with a check. The donation was the proceeds from the $42,000 raised at “The Pink Ribbon Walk/Port

Fest” held in October. Diane Petrocelli and her team members put on the annual walk at Port Canaveral, followed by the

Port Fest. This annual event raises thousands of dollars to help local cancer patients and raise awareness about cancer in

the community. Space Coast Cancer Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, was established in May 2006. It

provides direct financial assistance to help patients in need pay for pain medication, anti–nausea medication and

utilities. The foundation also provides transportation for cancer patients to treatment. To learn more about the organiza-

tion, to volunteer, or to make a tax–deductible donation, contact Dawn Faust at [email protected]

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FEBRUARY 3, 2014Call Adrienne Roth at 321-951-7777 for Advertising Information


BBNBrevard

Business

News


4300 Fortune Place, Suite DWest Melbourne, FL 32904

(321) 951–7777fax (321) 951–4444

BrevardBusinessNews.com

PUBLISHERAdrienne B. Roth

EDITORKen Datzman

SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITORBill Roth

Brevard Business News is published every Monday byBrevard Business News Inc. Bulk Rate postage is paid atMelbourne, FL and Cocoa, FL. This publication servesbusiness executives in Brevard County. It reports onnews, trends and ideas of interest to industry, trade,agribusiness, finance, health care, high technology,education and commerce.

Letters to the Editor must include the writer’s signatureand printed or typed name, full address and telephonenumber. Brevard Business News reserves the right to editall letters. Send your letters to: Editor, Brevard BusinessNews, 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D, West Melbourne, FL,32904, or email [email protected].

Subscription Rates for home or office mail delivery are$26.00 for one year (52 issues). Send all addresschanges to: Circulation Department, Brevard BusinessNews, 4300 Fortune Place, Suite D, West Melbourne, FL,32904, or email [email protected].

chair instead of hanging it in the closet? Would it really

matter if I left the dishes in the dishwasher overnight

rather than putting them away as soon as the cycle was

over? Would it really matter if my handbags were just on a

shelf and not arranged by color, size and purpose? Would it

really matter if instead of having every drawer organized, I

had a junk drawer? Would it matter?

Holy moly, what was I thinking? Surely I would be

sucked into a black hole or into the time–space continuum

or worse yet, some evil would befall me if I had indeed

committed such a slovenly act.

Really, probably not. Slovenly I am not; I just have too

much of what author and professional organizer Peter

Walsh calls “lazy clutter.” Walsh says it’s a little more than

trash; it’s all the stuff that we neglect and it accumulates

over time on every flat surface in our homes. For me, its

unopened junk mail, magazines, coupons and notes

scribbled on scraps of paper.

I’m not a pack rat or a hoarder; I’m just guilty of piling

it high. Sometimes I just plop things down. I have every

intention of putting them away, but it never happens.

Taking care of it all is becoming quite a chore that is

sometimes stressful. I am not alone. The Huffington Post

last year conducted a survey. They found that clutter is the

fifth most common stress trigger; 47 percent of respon-

dents worried that their homes were not clean or organized

enough.

Americans in general have too much stuff to take care

of. Consider these facts from the National Association of

Organizing Professionals:

l 80 percent of the clutter in most homes is a result of

disorganization, not lack of space.

l 1 in 11 American households rents a self–storage

space, spending more than $1,000 a year in rent and

contributing to a multi–billion dollar industry.

l Unnecessary expenditures related to disorganization

(last–minute shopping at premium prices, buying dupli-

cates of misplaced items, rush charges, late fees, finance

charges, etc.) can cost as much as 15 to 20 percent of your

annual budget.

l We wear 20 percent of our clothes 80 percent of the

time.

The National Soap and Detergent Association says that

getting rid of excess clutter would eliminate 40 percent of

the housework in an average home. And the U.S. Depart-

ment of Energy notes that 25 percent of people with two–

car garages don’t have room to park cars inside due to

clutter, and 32 percent only have room for one vehicle.

I don’t rent a storage unit (although I probably could) or

park in the garage (because there’s too much stuff in there)

and yes, I probably wear 20 percent of my clothes 80

percent of the time.

But, I’m making progress. Last month I started a

de–cluttering project. I labeled three boxes: Keep, Throw

Away, and Give Away. I even put some items in each, but

unfortunately, some of the items in the Throw Away and

Give Away boxes made their way back into the Keep box.

Clutter, clutter, clutter — there, I said it. Since I am not

Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz and I don’t have the power to

click my heels together three times and go back to another

time, I am going to work more on eliminating the C word

from my list. Well, there’s always tomorrow.

I can’t pinpoint when the problem started — it seems like it was just thereBy Rebekah McCloudUCF Forum columnist

As I grow older, a bad word that starts with C has crept

into my vocabulary — and my environment. I’m having a

hard time ridding myself of it. It niggles at my edges, and

like a bad haircut it has become my constant companion.

What’s the word, you ask? Clutter!

I can’t really pinpoint when it began; it seems like it

was just there.

I was a neat freak well into my 50s. There was a place

for everything and everything in its place. I was never

Mommy Dearest (although there’s probably only two or

three wire hangers in my house), but I was obsessed with

the notion of an orderly environment.

One Saturday morning that suddenly changed. I had

been up cleaning since the crack of dawn when I caught a

glimpse of my haggard reflection in the mirror. I studied it

and asked myself, “Really?”

Would it really matter if I left a sweater draped across a

Rebekah McCloud is director of the Universityof Central Florida’s PRIME STEM/StudentSupport Services Program. She can be reachedat [email protected].

Attorney Jack Kirschenbaum re–elected to serve on board of directors as secretary for AMFGrayRobinson shareholder Jack Kirschenbaum has been re–elected to serve on the board of directors as secretary for

The Astronauts Memorial Foundation.

The Foundation honors and memorializes those astronauts who have sacrificed their lives for the nation and the space

program by sponsoring the national Space Mirror Memorial, and by implementing innovative educational technology

programs. They capture the technology being developed in the U.S. space program and apply it to the field of education.

Kirschenbaum is a Martindale–Hubbell–rated trial lawyer. His general litigation practice includes contract disputes,

commercial litigation, family practice and personal injury cases. He represents clients before governmental agencies in

zoning, planning, comprehensive plan changes and other land–development matters.

Kirschenbaum also has experience in First Amendment law and currently represents both a regional newspaper and

the news division of a local television station.

Humane Society’s annual ‘Molly Mutt Poker Run’ set for Cocoa; raises awareness, supportThe Central Brevard Humane Society will host its 11th annual “Molly Mutt Poker Run” at 10 a.m. on Sunday,

Feb. 16, at the Humane Society, 1020 Cox Road in Cocoa.

The cost to participate in the run will be $7 per hand or two hands for $10. Donations of pet supplies are appreciated.

All vehicles are welcome.

The run will begin at the Central Brevard Humane Society and will end at Doc’s Bait House, 588 W. Merritt Island

Causeway on Merritt Island.

Event activities will include a 50–50 drawing, vendor displays, food and live music beginning at 1 p.m. Prizes will be

awarded for “best,” “worst” and “mystery” hands.

All proceeds from this event will help raise awareness and financial support for the “unwanted and abandoned” pets

that visit the shelter each year that need a safe and loving “forever” home.

For more information about this fund–raiser, contact the Central Brevard Humane Society at 636–3343 or visit

www.CritterSavers.com.

Visit BrevardBusinessNews.com for Advertising InformationFEBRUARY 3, 2014 BREVARD BUSINESS NEWS / 5


TALLAHASSEE — The six top–performing principals

in Florida’s highest–risk public schools were recognized for

their students’ achievement gains in reading and math-

ematics at the inaugural Florida TaxWatch Elite Principal

Awards in Tallahassee.

Commissioner of Education Pam Stewart joined Florida

TaxWatch to present the awards and deliver a keynote

address to honorees, highlighting their “incredible”

leadership skills that are turning around Florida’s high–

risk schools.

“These remarkable principals are actively involved in

raising student achievement through their effective

management efforts,” said Stewart. “With leadership such

as theirs, we can ensure every Florida student has a

quality teacher in the classroom.”

The Florida TaxWatch Elite Principal Award is the only

honor given to principals whose students exceed expecta-

tions in learning gains in high–risk schools. Each honoree

received a generous financial award and statewide

recognition at the ceremony, sponsored by Patriot Trans-

portation, The Florida Lottery, Verizon, Badcock Furni-

ture, State Farm, The JM Rubin Foundation and Wells

Fargo.

“The six principals honored today are ensuring that all

children have the tools they need to learn and benefit from

Florida’s exceptional education system,” said Dominic

Calabro, the president and chief executive officer of Florida

TaxWatch, the independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit

taxpayer research and government watchdog.

“By bestowing this honor, we hope to focus on the

principals whose actions and policies behind the scenes

have helped turn around our most troubled, often forgotten

schools and students.”

To be eligible for the award, candidates must have been

at their school for a minimum of three years to ensure

their policies were impactful. No nominations were

accepted for the awards; only data from the Florida

Department of Education (FLDOE) was analyzed to

determine the winning principals.

The top two principals of high–risk schools within the

elementary, middle and high school levels across the state

were identified using established statewide assessment

data from the FLDOE Data Warehouse.

High–risk schools have high percentages of students

with disabilities, students designated as English as a

Second Language learners, and those eligible for Free and

Reduced Lunch.

“I applaud Florida leaders for continuing to invest in

education so that every student has a quality teacher in

the classroom and is given a chance to succeed in our

exceptional education system,” said Florida TaxWatch

Chairman John Zumwalt III. “The Elite principals

recognized by Florida TaxWatch are a vital part of that

success, and their effective leadership inspires teachers

and students to exceed expectations and help Florida

remain competitive in a global economy.”

The Elite Principals Awards Program is part of a

Principal Leadership Initiative undertaken by Florida

TaxWatch and the Learning Systems Institute, a

multidisciplinary research and development organization

at Florida State University that supports leading research-

TaxWatch honors top principals in high–risk schools; they raise achievement through effective managementers through five centers.

The goal of the initiative is to improve student achieve-

ment in high–risk schools and close the achievement gap

by studying the identified principals and changing state

policies to reflect their successful practices.

The six identified principals will be incorporated into a

longitudinal study performed by the Learning Systems

Institute to identify a principal’s role in recruiting,

retaining and developing outstanding teachers. Existing

research has shown that effective principals heavily

influence student achievement through recruitment and

retention of highly effective teachers.

“The longitudinal study of Florida’s high–performing

principals will provide policy makers with research–based

evidence regarding the day–to–day practices of effective

principals and the competencies that are associated with

leading schools that better meet the instructional needs of

all students,” said Dr. Laura Lang, director emeritus of the

Learning Systems Institute, who also spoke during the

awards program. “Hopefully, the results will be used to

craft policies related to the initial preparation and ongoing

professional development of Florida’s educational leaders.”

The honorees recognized included: Tangela Goa, Van E.

Blanton Elementary School; Yvonne Reins, Rodney B. Cox

Elementary School; Dr. Linda Amica–Roberts, Coconut

Palm K–8 Academy; Anna Hernandez, M. A. Milam K–8

Center; Guillermo Munoz, Westland Hialeah Senior High

School; and Dr. Verena Cabrera, Hialeah High School.

“Congratulations to these six principals for their

outstanding commitment to ensuring their students can

compete and succeed in a global economy, said Gov. Rick

Scott. “Florida’s educators and administrators are the

backbone of our state’s terrific education system. That’s

why we invested $480 million last year to give every

Florida teacher a much deserved pay raise. This pay raise,

combined with our historic increases in state education

funding, is helping to ensure that Florida’s schools are

some of the best in the world.”

“Superintendents throughout Florida support the

teams in schools that work hard every day to help students

address the many challenges they face,” said state Sen. Bill

Montford, chief executive officer of the Florida Association

of District School Superintendents. “Such recognition is

certainly appreciated.”

“I am incredibly proud to share that five of this year’s

most effective principals come from the Miami–Dade

school district,” added Alberto Carvalho, Miami–Dade

Schools superintendent. “Many of our district’s principals

are faced with difficult challenges, but no matter how

unlikely success may seem, they consistently strive for

student success. It is an honor for our entire district to see

their hard work rewarded.”

“It is an honor for the Pasco County school district to be

represented among the Elite Principals in 2014,” said

Pasco County Superintendent Browning. “Our students

and teachers exceed expectations as a result of the

outstanding leadership skills exhibited by our school

principals, and we’re thrilled that one of our own is being

recognized.”

Florida TaxWatch is a statewide, non–profit, non–

partisan research institute that over its 33–year history

has become widely recognized as the watchdog of citizens’

hard–earned tax dollars. Its mission is to provide the

citizens of Florida and public officials with high quality,

independent research and education on government

revenues, expenditures, taxation, public policies and

programs and to increase the productivity and accountabil-

ity of Florida state and local government. Its support

comes from homeowners and retirees, small and large

businesses, philanthropic foundations, and professional

associations. For more information about the organization,

visit www.FloridaTaxWatch.org.

Brevard County SCORE introduces business–planning tool and serviceThe Brevard County Chapter of SCORE has announced the roll out of a new, easy–to–use business–planning tool and

service provided by local SCORE business counselors.

The “Easy Planner” template guides businesses in the development of a practical, actionable business plan based upon

five key principles.

l Simple: The planning process and the plan must be simple to do and easy to use.

l Customer Centered: Identification and profile all the target customers.

l Opportunity and Objectives: Estimation of market value and goals for customer share.

l Results Driven: Selection of a few meaningful metrics to measure progress.

l Execution Obsession: The “how” (resources) and the “who” (accountability).

On the introduction of this new tool and service provided by the Melbourne–based team of business counselors, Space

Coast SCORE Chairman Larry Smith said, “Given the unprecedented speed of change in the business world today,

effective planning is critical to the survival and success of every organization. Many of the owners and senior managers

we work with claim they don’t have the time for formal business planning. Our new ‘Easy Planner’ meets the need for a

quick, simple process that produces effective, actionable plans that owners and managers will actually use to drive

business results.”

Space Coast SCORE business counselors are currently setting up planning meetings with Brevard County businesses.

To reserve a free, one–on–one planning session, call 254–2288, or visit www.spacecoastscore.org.

Space Coast SCORE includes a team of 15 “dedicated, knowledgeable business counselors.” All are certified business

mentors who have owned and operated their own businesses or served in management positions for large and small

companies. These counselors share their knowledge and experience through free face–to–face, online, and telephone

mentoring.

SCORE is a national nonprofit association dedicated to the formation, growth, and success of small business.


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ROCKLEDGE — Health First Inc. has announced the

hiring of Ed Griese as its new president and chief executive

officer of Health First Health Plans.

He has more than 25 years experience, both in the U.S.

and internationally, in senior leadership roles including

managing health insurance and reinsurance companies,

third–party administrators, business–process outsourcing,

IPAs/PHOs and health plans.

Griese previously served as managing director and

partner in the Healthcare Industry Group of Alvarez &

Marsal in New York, and is recognized within the health–

care insurance community as a skilled strategist with

“exceptional” business acumen.

His career reflects successful startup, turnaround,

consulting and business–development experience. Griese

has a proven track record in identifying and attracting

executive talent for his management teams, said Health

First.

He has served on the boards of directors for such

Industry veteran Ed Griese named president, CEO of Health First Health Plans; has wide experiencecompanies as Munich Re America, America’s Health

Insurance Plans, Best Doctors, and Cigna Life Insurance

Co of Europe, S.A.

Griese has also been a board member of a number of

nonprofit organizations, including Our Kids, The American

School of Bombay and Princeton FC (soccer club).

He earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from

Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota.

Founded in 1995, Health First Inc. is Central Florida’s

only fully integrated health system and employs more than

7,500 people. The company runs four hospitals in the

county — Holmes Regional Medical Center in Melbourne,

Palm Bay Hospital, Cape Canaveral Hospital in Cocoa

Beach and Viera Hospital.

For more information on all its services and businesses,

visit www.Health–First.org.

STYX to perform at King Center in Melbourne Feb. 28; made two Super Bowl appearancesThe Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts on the Melbourne campus of Eastern Florida State College has

signed the group STYX to its schedule of entertainment for 2014. The concert is set for 8 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 28. Ticket

prices start at $43 (inclusive of fees). Visit KingCenter.com or call 242–2219 to purchase tickets to the event. STYX —

Tommy Shaw, James “JY” Young, Lawrence Gowan, Todd Sucherman and Ricky Phillips (along with the occasional

surprise appearance by original bassist Chuck Panozzo) — have performed more live shows since 1999 than all of the

previous years of its career combined. The group has made two Super–Bowl appearances as well as Pollstar Box Office

chart–topping tours with Def Leppard, Journey, Boston, REO Speedwagon, and Bad Company. For more information

about the group, visit www.StyxWorld.com.

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As part of its “Supporting Your Success” campaign,

locally owned and operated Alliance Title will host the

presentation “Breakfast & Learn: Short–Sale Refresher”

led by professionals Cyndy Little and Jennifer Michels at

9 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, at the firm’s Melbourne

office. The address is 10 S. Harbor City Blvd.

New agents and veterans alike “will benefit” from this

comprehensive outline of the basic information needed for

a successful short–sale transaction.

In addition, these experienced short–sale specialists

will share “insider tips,” review recent changes to

guidelines, provide personalized workbooks and a

homemade breakfast — all within the scope of a one–hour

class.

Mike Spragins, a partner at Alliance Title, said, “We

have offered six other topics for our ‘Breakfast & Learn

Series,’ and while they are all very popular, this class is

the one people keep asking for.”

The class is free of charge to local real–estate profes-

sionals and reservations are required. Reservations may

be made by e–mailing [email protected] or text/

call 412–4784. Private classes may be arranged for groups

of eight people or more with a choice of venue.

Coming up in the series is “Legal Breakfast Blend,”

with attorney Stephen Spira the presenter at 9 a.m. on

March 13. This class will “attempt” to take the “mystery”

out of real–estate transactions involving probate, guard-

ianship, quiet title, tax deeds, and quit claim deeds — to

give Realtors the confidence they need to go ahead and

take that complex listing they might otherwise pass on, or

perhaps to develop a niche market.

Alliance Title is Brevard County’s largest indepen-

dently owned settlement and escrow agency. The business

provides complete real–estate closing services to make the

“buying, selling and refinancing processes a smooth and

positive experience for everyone involved.”

Visit www.AllianceTitleFL.com to learn more about

Alliance Title. Follow Alliance Title Florida on Facebook,

and AllianceTitle10 on Twitter.

Alliance Title’s ‘Breakfast & Learn’ series set Feb. 13 in Melbourne to look at short–sale transactions

Clay Stephens Lifestyles moves to Cocoa VillageClay Stephens Lifestyles is relocating from the Eau Gallie Arts District in Melbourne to Cocoa Village. The announce-

ment was made by veteran interior designer Clay Stephens and business partner Dennis Johnson. Their studio is

now located at 633 Brevard Ave. in Cocoa Village. Clay Stephens plans to resume normal business hours on Tuesday,

Jan. 28. The store’s hours in Cocoa Village are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday,

or by appointment. The business phone number is 622–5307. The firm also publishes a quarterly newsletter to keep

customers up to date on Clay Stephens Lifestyles. For more information about the business, visit ClayStephens.com.

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Experts at The Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery see big advances in care,driven in part by new devices and new procedures; has six MDs on its staffBy Ken Datzman

With major advances in technologies and techniques over the past

decades, eye surgery and the practice of ophthalmology in general has

become a patient–friendly environment.

Cataract surgery, for example, has made big leaps and is an

evolution in itself in the field of medicine.

“Occasionally, we have patients who will share the experiences their

parents or grandparents had when they underwent cataract surgery

many years ago,” said industry veteran Jerry Orloff, the chief executive

officer of Melbourne–based The Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery.

“Patients were in the hospital for as long as four to six weeks, with

their head ‘sandbagged’ to keep it perfectly still following surgery. Such

patients at the time had a very large incision and many sutures placed.

It would often take as long as six months for them to regain their

efficiency. This was a long and frustrating process for them,” Orloff

said.

Today, cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures

performed by ophthalmologists at The Eye Institute. “Our surgeons

utilize the latest techniques and technologies at The Eye Institute’s

state–of–the–art Medicare–certified, fully accredited outpatient

ambulatory surgery center,” he said.

In most cases, the patient’s vision is “restored immediately following

cataract surgery. The surgeons use a small incision — no longer than

3 millimeters, which is self–sealing (no need for sutures in most cases)

— to remove cataracts via ultrasound and dissolve them in just a few

minutes. The medical term is Phacoemulsificaton,” added Orloff, who

earned his bachelor’s degree and MBA in health–care administration

from Temple University.

Phacoemulsification refers to modern cataract surgery in which the

eye’s internal lens is emulsified with an ultrasonic handpiece and

“aspirated” from the eye. Aspirated fluids are replaced with irrigation

of a balanced salt solution, thus maintaining the anterior chamber.

Caused by the clouding of the lens, cataract is a leading cause of

treatable visual impairment that will affect more than half of all

Americans by the time they are 80 years old. Surgical removal of the

opaque lens with an artificial lens implanted is a successful procedure

of cataract treatment.

“In addition to the advances in surgical techniques, there has been

rapid advancement over the last several years in the lens implants that

our surgeons use to replace the natural or crystalline lens,” said Orloff,

whose career in the field has spanned 25 years in more than one state.

“The latest lens implants do the type of things correcting vision that

were only dreamed of just several years ago. Some of these advantages

include the ability to correct partial or full astigmatism, and provide

patients with excellent near, intermediate, and distance vision.”

Interestingly, people with cataract–related vision loss who have had

cataract surgery to improve their sight are living longer than those

with visual impairment who chose not to have the procedure, according

to an Australian cohort study published in September in “Ophthalmol-

ogy,” the journal of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

After comparing the two groups, researchers found a 40 percent

lower long–term mortality risk in those who had the surgery. The

research is drawn from data gathered in the “Blue Mountains Eye

Study,” a population–based cohort study of vision and common eye

diseases in an older Australian population.

The sample was a total of 354 people aged 49 years and older who Please see The Eye Institute, page 15

were diagnosed with cataract–related vision

impairment.

The team at The Eye Institute includes physi-

cians James McManus, Christopher Shumake, Gary

Ganiban, Hetal Vaishnav, Patricia LaFleur and

Carrie Palmer.

Each physician has specialty areas at the full–

service practice. Their expertise ranges from

treatment for diabetic eye diseases to macular

degeneration, retinal tears, lens implants, glau-

coma, cornea transplantation, and cataract surgery.

The team is joined by doctors of optometry

Michael Mandese and Eric Straut. Their specialties

include care for “dry eyes, which is a very common

and painful syndrome that affects a high percentage

of the population, particularly those over the age of

40 and contact–lens wearers,” said Orloff.

Dr. Mandese and Dr. Straut also specialize in

providing low–vision services to people who are

challenged, because of their eyesight, using a

computer, reading, and performing other activities

Dr. Hetal Vaishnav, a fellowship–trained retina and vitreous specialist, practices at The Eye Institute for Medicine & Surgery,based in Melbourne with offices in Rockledge and Palm Bay. Founded by Dr. James McManus and Dr. Christopher Shumake,The Eye Institute is a comprehensive medical and surgical eye–care practice. The practice features a Medicare–certified, fullyaccredited same–day ambulatory surgery center.


at home.

Dr. McManus and Dr. Shumake founded The

Eye Institute in 1996 and later expanded with

offices in Rockledge and Palm Bay. “The story of

The Eye Institute is one of service to the community.

Dr. McManus and Dr. Shumake’s goal was to bring

world–class eye care, on par with the finest teaching

institutions that exist anywhere in the U.S., to

Brevard County,” said Orloff.

One of the common, potentially blinding eye

diseases is glaucoma, but there are few warning

signs. Often referred to as the “sneak thief of sight,”

glaucoma has no noticeable symptoms in its early

stages, and vision loss progresses at such a gradual

rate that people affected by the condition are often

unaware of it until their sight has already been

compromised.

If untreated, glaucoma reduces peripheral vision

and eventually may cause blindness by damaging



Webster University’s Dr. Teresa Harris sees future of teletherapy in her field,introduces Concierge service in her local mental–health counseling practiceBy Ken Datzman

As the field of health care continues to evolve in America,

telemedicine may be poised for a mainstream breakthrough and will

likely reshape the delivery of services to patients in certain areas of

various fields of practice in the years ahead.

Telemedicine includes a growing number of applications and

services using two–way video, e–mail, smart phones, wireless tools, and

other forms of telecommunications technology.

By remotely monitoring or consulting with a patient, providers are

able to be involved proactively with their care — anywhere at pretty

much anytime.

“If one of my patients is in a grocery store shopping and they are

having a panic attack, they need help right now. They may have a

scheduled office appointment with me in one week, but that’s too late to

meet their immediate needs,” said Dr. Teresa Harris, a practicing

psychologist and counseling–program coordinator for Webster Univer-

sity on the Space Coast.

Practitioners such as Dr. Harris, a licensed mental–health counse-

lor, see the future in telemedicine. She is revamping her business

model to better serve patients with a new service that knocks down the

traditional walls of her practice.

Dr. Harris, who has a private practice in Indian Harbour Beach,

focusing on marital counseling and treating depression, anxiety, and

trauma, has introduced a “Concierge” service making herself available

to counsel clients in a more “flexible way.”

Her practice has gone beyond the 50–minute weekly session that is

standard in mental–health counseling. It now offers direct–care

counseling.

“With the Concierge therapy, the client receives the most effective

treatment that is most beneficial for them, and it’s not going to have to

be 50 minutes in my office all the time.”

The client has more options in addition to the office visit. Her

practice’s Concierge service offers Skype sessions, e–mail access to a

personal business account, and telephone counseling, for example.

“My clientele includes busy professionals who face challenges in

their life,” said Dr. Harris, who has 18 years experience in her field.

“Often, they need to talk to me quickly when these challenges arise.

The past couple of years, I have felt a bit restless in my practice. I’ve

wanted to help my clients more, but I had to figure out a way to do

this.”

Webster University’s Theresa Grant, coordinator of academic

advising and community relations at the Melbourne campus, says

Dr. Harris is an “innovative practitioner” in her field.

“We pride ourselves on being able to recruit professionals in the

community who are working in their field and who are innovators, like

Dr. Harris. She is a talented teacher and that comes across from the

students. We hear it over and over,” said Grant.

Grant added that Dr. Harris brings “real–life practice expertise” into

the classroom and the students “greatly” benefit.

“We not only have people who are in private practice or who are

therapists, but also people who teach and work at agencies, who work

in the field of education, and in other areas of counseling. The students

receive a variety of instruction. When they graduate from our program,

they have theoretical knowledge, they have practical skills, and they

understand research.”

Students in Webster University’s master’s degree in counseling Please see Webster University, page 17

program who have completed the majority of their

coursework go into the community to gain experi-

ence in a university–supervised practicum or

internship.

These students have studied under instructors

with academic and work experience in the field of

psychology or counseling and “are ready to apply

their knowledge outside the classroom,” said Grant,

adding that counseling students make up a sizable

part of Webster University’s student population in

Brevard County.

Dr. Harris said she is limiting the number of

clients who will be involved in Concierge therapy, “so

I can tend to them as they need the services. I’m also

in the process of continuing to drop insurance

providers. Insurance providers do not cover

teletherapy services in my field. They cover a

structured session and they determine how long the

session is as well as the duration of the treatment.”

In the future that may change as telehealth

coverage gains favor in more fields and licensure

Dr. Teresa Harris, right, a psychologist and licensed mental–health counselor, is an instructor and counseling–programcoordinator for Webster University. She has revamped her beachside practice and now offers clients a Concierge serviceto better meet their changing needs. Skype, e–mail, and phone sessions are part of her practice. Webster’s Theresa Grantis coordinator of academic advising and community relations. They are at Webster’s Melbourne campus.


laws are reworked. Concierge care is a growing

business for physicians in many parts of the nation.

According to The Physicians Foundation, some 4,000

doctors nationwide now offer concierge care and one

of the fastest–growing states for this service is

Florida.

The Federation of State Medical Boards, or

FSMB, is developing a new medical licensure system

that would allow physicians to practice across state

lines. The proposed “interstate compact” would serve

as a formal agreement between states to speed up

the license process for qualified practitioners.

The federal government already has successful

programs in place that expand telemedicine options

for members of the U.S. Department of Defense and

Veterans Affairs.

The FSMB’s interstate compact model comple-

ments these efforts, as well as legislative ones —

particularly the recent introduction of the




Candlelighters to host its annual Valentine’sfund–raiser at the Eau Gallie Yacht Club

INDIAN HARBOUR BEACH — A committee of local

women have joined together to host Candlelighters of

Brevard’s 13th annual “Have–a–Heart Valentine’s

Extravaganza” to assist Brevard County kids and their

families facing childhood cancer.

The event will be at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8, at the

Eau Gallie Yacht Club in Indian Harbour Beach.

“Many loyal volunteers, sponsors, and the Brevard

County community come together on this night (and for

many days preceding this event) for a very worthwhile

cause,” said Tracey Latshaw, event chairwoman.

The festivities will include a buffet, champagne and

cocktails, and silent and live auctions. A 2014 Hyundai

Sonata, donated for the 13th year in a row by the Nelson

family and the Brevard Hyundai Dealers, will be given

away at the event.

Candlelighters of Brevard is a nonprofit organization

dedicated to helping children with cancer and their

families by offering emotional support and financial

assistance. One–hundred percent of their proceeds benefit

children of Brevard County.

l A statistic developed by Candlelighters revealed their

families drove a total of more than 286,966 miles last year

seeking treatment for their children. There were 1,140

clinic visits and 758 days spent in–patient. “Candlelighters

is proud to be able to offer the financial support to assist

with gas, tolls, and car repairs among other services.”

l Statistics released by St. Jude Medical Center give

“great cause for hope” to children diagnosed with cancer. In

1962, a child stricken by acute lymphoblastic leukemia had

a 4 percent chance of survival. Today, the survival rate for

that disease is 94 percent. “Similar dramatic improve-

ments are being experienced for other types of childhood

cancer, as well.”

For details on the car giveaway or to purchase event

tickets, visit www.CandlelightersofBrevard.org or call

728–5600.

DeGroodt Library to present fourprograms covering Florida history

The Franklin T. DeGroodt Memorial Library, 6475

Minton Road in Palm Bay, will host four presentations

throughout February as part of its “A Florida Remem-

bered” series.

l“Space Programs in Florida,” at 2 p.m. on Feb 2. This

is a journey through space with Professor Lori Walters.

l “Important Moments in the Suffragist Movement in

Florida,” at 2 p.m. on Feb. 9. This will be a discussion of

the women’s movement to vote during the first decade of

the 20th century in Florida. Professor Robert Cassanello

will lead the discussion.

l “America’s Presidents and their Presence in Florida,”

at 2 p.m. on Feb. 16. The discussion will be led by Professor

James Clark.

l “Having Fun, Wish You Were Here,” at 2 p.m. on

Feb. 23. Author Liz Courson will present an illustrated

history of the postcard in Florida.

For more information about these community pro-

grams, call the library at 952–6318.

Clevens

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CLEWISTON — The 19th season of the major leagues

of bass–fishing, the Walmart FLW Tour, kicks off Feb. 6–9

with the Walmart FLW Tour on Lake Okeechobee

presented by Mercury.

Hosted by Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s Marina &

Resort and the Hendry County Tourism Development

Council, the tournament will feature 180 of the world’s

best bass–fishing pros and 180 co–anglers casting for top

awards of up to $125,000 cash in the pro division and up to

$25,000 cash in the co–angler division.

“If the weather gets right, it could be the perfect storm

like it was in 2011 when they broke all of the records,” said

Mercury pro Drew Benton of Panama City, who won this

event last season. “It’s been too cold and the major spawn

hasn’t happened yet. It all depends on the weather, but we

could easily see a four–day total of 100 pounds again.”

Straight Talk pro J.T. Kenney of Palm Bay shared

Benton’s enthusiasm. “Even though it really screws up the

fishing, it takes these cold fronts to trigger those big giant

schools of fish that live out in the main lake and are

uncatchable to move into the grassy areas and spawn,”

Kenney said. “That’s the time of year when we can see the

big 30–pound stringers. I really believe that if we hit a

warming trend before the Tour event, it’s going to be lights

out.” He added, “When it happens, it’ll be pretty quick.

Water temperatures right now are pretty cold — I’ve seen

the lower 50s. Once that water temperature gets back up

to 60 to 63 degrees, they’re coming.”

Kenney said that the weather will also play a huge role

in how the tournament anglers fish.

“If it warms up, we’re going to see more of the feeding–

type baits. Swimbaits will be really popular. Weightless

stick baits and ribbontail worms will catch a lot of fish.

But, if it stays cold, then reaction baits are going to be the

way to go. I like to flip the mats with a heavy weight, or

use lipless crankbaits and jerkbaits.”

Benton said there are “endless opportunities on

Okeechobee right now, and I think you’re going to be able

to catch them any way you want to. I think the jig bite is

going to get better on the outside. Sight–fishing might

come into play. You can find them on the outside of the

grass on a spinnerbait or a swimjig. From what I saw a few

weeks ago, there aren’t as many mats to flip as in years

past. I think the winner is going to have to be versatile,

because I don’t see anyone being able to strictly punch

mats for four days and win on that alone.”

Both anglers said that if the water temperatures warm

by tournament time, they expect to see the winning mark

top 100 pounds. “If it’s stays cold, I think that the winner

will probably be in the low– to mid–70–pound range,”

Kenney said. “It really depends on the weather. Either

way, Lake Okeechobee is a great place to be the first week

of February.”

In FLW Tour competition, anglers are also vying for

valuable points in hopes of qualifying for the 2014 Forrest

Wood Cup, the world championship of bass fishing. The

2014 Forrest Wood Cup will be in Columbia, S.C., Aug. 14–

17 on Lake Murray and anglers could win as much as

$500,000 — the sport’s biggest award.

Anglers will take off from Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s

Marina & Resort located at 920 E. Del Monte Ave. in

Clewiston at 7:30 a.m. the first two days of competition. On

the last two days, takeoff will be at the Clewiston Boat

Basin at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, and Friday’s weigh–ins will

be held at Roland & Mary Ann Martin’s Marina beginning

at 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday’s final weigh–ins will be

held at the Walmart located at 1005 W. Sugarland

Highway in Clewiston beginning at 4 p.m.

Coverage of the Lake Okeechobee tournament will be

broadcast in high–definition on NBC Sports Network

when “FLW” airs May 17 from 11 a.m.–12 p.m. The

Emmy–nominated “FLW” television show is hosted by

Jason Harper and is broadcast to more than 564 million

households worldwide.

Visit FLWOutdoors.com for updated information on the

Walmart FLW Tour event.

Walmart FLW Tour to open 2014 season at Lake Okeechobee, Palm Bay’s Kenney says weather will play role

Workshop for Feral Cat Colony CaregiversSpace Coast Feline Network will conduct a workshop for feral cat colony caregivers from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday,

Feb. 8, at the Central Brevard Library, 308 Forrest Ave., in Cocoa. The workshop is for those involved with the care of

feral cats and includes demonstrations on how to use traps. This workshop is free of charge. Call the Helpline to register

at 631–7729. For further information about the organization, visit www.SCFNtnr.org.

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If you are a provider, facility, support group, or otherhealth & allied service, please follow provider

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Community partners include:

Coastal makesconnections for life.






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ONACCREDITATION OF AMBULANCE

SERVI CESAs the county’s exclusive provider of non-emergency

ambulance services, Coastal Health Systems of Brevard makes important connections every day

for the citizens of our community. Since 1988, its staff of trained professionals has safely transported thousands of patients to and from their healthcare providers, playing a key role in Brevard’s medical transportation system.

Coastal Health Systems is a truly unique partnership. Operating under the governance of a Board of Directors with members from all three Brevard hospital systems and the oversight of the Board of County Commissioners, Coastal is able to respond to the needs and vision of the county’s healthcare and emergency services professionals alike.

Coastal makes connections for life—for residents of Brevard, with its community partners. For information, call 321.633.7050 or visit www.coastalhealth.org.

CoastalCoastal makesmakes

CoastalCoastalHealth Systems of BrevardHealth Systems of Brevard

Community partners include:

Coastal makes

CoastalHealth Systems of Brevard

As the county’s exclusive provider of non-emergency ambulance services, Coastal Health Systems of Brevard makes important con-nections every day for the citizens of our community. Since 1988, its staff of trained professionals has safely transported thousands of patients to and from their healthcare providers, playing a key role in Brevard’s medical transportation system.

Coastal Health Systems is a truly unique partnership.Operating under the gover-nance of a Board of Directors representing every non-profit hospital system serv-ing Brevard and with the oversight of the Board of County Commissioners, Coastal is able to respond to the needs and vision of the county’s healthcare and emergency services professionals alike.

Coastal makes connections for life – for residents of Brevard, with its community partners. For information, call 321.633.7050 or visit www.coastalhealth.org. .

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BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWSPlastic surgery practice to host Valentine’sthemed luncheon at Brano’s, Carrabba’s

The Clevens Face and Body Specialists of Melbourne

will be hosting a series of educational events titled “Love

the Way You Look and Feel.” The complimentary,

informational luncheons will be hosted at local restaurants

in both North and Central Brevard County.

The luncheons will feature two nationally recognized

plastic surgeons, Dr. Ross Clevens and Dr. Adam

Oppenheimer. Both local physicians will address the

common question, “What can plastic surgery do for you?”

They will speak about the latest advances in their respec-

tive fields, including the facelift options, rejuvenation for

eyes, the popular Weekend Necklift, SmartLipo, cellulite

treatment, and anti–aging dermal fillers.

Learn how to love the way you look and feel at 12 p.m.

on Feb. 7 at Brano’s Italian Grill in Cocoa Beach, or at

12 p.m. on Feb. 14 at Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Suntree.

Both current and prospective patients are welcome to

attend. Call 727–3223 or e–mail [email protected] to

join the gathering.

Clevens Face and Body Specialists is a multi–facility

practice, with the newest office located in Melbourne.

Dr. Clevens is a facial plastic surgery specialist.

Dr. Oppenheimer performs body contouring procedures

and breast surgery. A diverse array of surgical and non–

surgical treatments are available.

The procedures include facelift, laser–assisted necklift,

eyelid surgery, nasal contouring, lip enhancement, breast

augmentation, breast reconstruction, liposuction, Botox,

facial fillers, and laser treatments.

The founding physician of the practice, Dr. Clevens, is

Ivy League–trained and certified by the American Board of

Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He and his

practice have become well known nationally as well as

internationally for plastic surgery and cosmetic services.

For more information about the practice, visit

www.drclevens.com or call 727–3223.

Malabar Springfest scheduled April 5;crafter, vendor applications available

The annual Malabar Springfest is from 10 a.m. to

4 p.m. on Saturday, April 5, in Malabar Community Park.

Admission and parking are free of charge.

Billed as “Family Fun in a Rural Setting,” this event

brings together residents, businesses and visitors to enjoy

arts and crafts, live music, food and business vendors,

games and much more.

It is a showcase for the Town of Malabar and has grown

each year, attracting many citizens from other areas of

Brevard as well as Indian River County. The event will be

promoted throughout the Space Coast via print and online

sources, including www.TownofMalabar.org — the Town’s

website.

Crafters and vendors may obtain an application for the

Springfest by contacting event coordinator Cindi Kelley at

727–7764, extension 11, or send an e–mail message to

[email protected]. Sponsors and donors are

also needed. Donations can be cash, products or services,

as well as items for door prizes and raffle items. For

sponsorship and donor forms, contact Kelley.

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BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWSThe Eye Institute for Medicine & SurgeryContinued from page 10

the optic nerve.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology recom-

mends that all adults have a baseline comprehensive

dilated eye examination at least by age 40 — the time

when early signs of disease and changes in vision may

start to happen.

For seniors age 65 and older, the Academy recommends

having a comprehensive eye examination every one or two

years, or as directed by an ophthalmologist.

Diabetes is a major risk factor for glaucoma, cataract,

and diabetic retinopathy — which is the most severe of the

three eye diseases.

Diabetic eye diseases can be prevented and their

progression can be slowed through early detection.

“Diabetes can occur at any time in one’s life — in youth

or as adult — and it affects the eyes. There is abnormal

blood vessel growth in the back of the eye, the retina,” said

Orloff.

He added, “There is often little or no warning. That’s

why it is of the greatest importance for a person with

diabetes to have his or her vision checked with an eye–care

professional. The doctor will dilate their pupils. A person

with diabetes should have their eyes checked at least once

a year or more often if one’s primary–care physician or

endocrinologist recommends it.”

In diabetic retinopathy, the small blood vessels inside

the retina are damaged, causing them to leak fluid into the

retina, which is the light–sensitive tissue in the back of the

eye.

“As a retina specialist and a preventologist, I often see

vision loss that could be prevented with preventive care,”

said Dr. Vaishnav. “I believe patients should have regular

dilated eye exams with their eye physician to look for

diseases that can be detected and prevented.”

Ophthalmology has made such big strides as a

profession that a new device now offers hope to people

blinded because of incurable eye disorders.

Research presented in November at the 117th annual

meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology

shows promising data about a device that helps people

who have lost their vision, because of a genetic disease, to

recognize common objects.

In the study, the researchers found when the objects’

outlines had been enhanced, there was increased recogni-

tion. The device, called the “Argus II,” is the first FDA–

approved retinal implant for adults with retinitis

pigmentosa. This is a group of genetic disorders that affect

the retina’s ability to respond to light.

“Ophthalmology is such an exciting field. The research

and the advances being made are benefiting patients,”

said Orloff.

Veteran executives Alberto Cabrera and George Arocha join cargo team at PortPORT CANAVERAL — Canaveral Port Authority has hired two veteran port executives to help expand cargo

business development and terminal operations at Port Canaveral.

Alberto Cabrera joins Canaveral as the senior director of cargo business development and will oversee the cargo–

marketing strategy to expand container, bulk and break–bulk operations. He is the former director and general manager

of trade development and marketing for the Jacksonville Port Authority, where he worked for the past 10 years.

George Arocha is the new director and general manager of cargo and terminal operations and will be responsible for

providing customer service to existing cargo clients, managing projects and overseeing operations of Canaveral’s new

container terminal facilities.

For the past 13 years, he managed the Port of Miami Terminal Operating Co. LLC, coordinating daily operations at a

multi–user container terminal.

Shannon Feeley came to Canaveral as a communications intern in 2003 and since that time assumed increasing

levels of responsibility within business development with a focus on cargo operations.

Today, she is the assistant director of cargo business development. She will continue her efforts in creating contacts

and identifying growth opportunities for Port Canaveral, in addition to partnering with Cabrera in creating and execut-

ing Canaveral’s cargo business development strategy.

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BREVARD BUSINESS NEWSLockheed Martin’s Larry Price to discussOrion at Space Club meeting set Feb. 11

CAPE CANAVERAL — Lockheed Martin Orion

Deputy Program Manager Larry Price will be the guest

speaker for the National Space Club meeting at 11:30 a.m.

on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at the Radisson at the Port.

His presentation is titled “Orion and Countdown to

Exploration Flight Test–1.”

With more than 35 years of aerospace engineering

experience, Price is responsible for the development of the

Orion Vehicle in his role as deputy program director for

NASA’s Crew Exploration Vehicle.

The Orion multi–purpose crew vehicle is scheduled for

a Sept. 18, 2014, Exploration Flight Test–1, where it will

reach an altitude of 3,600 miles before re–entering the

atmosphere to demonstrate the capsule’s heat shield.

Before his current position, Price held several key

Lockheed Martin management jobs including space

transportation strategic development director, NASA

orbital space plane program capture director, alternate

access to space station director, crew return vehicle project

director, small launch vehicles director, and Titan II space

launch vehicle director.

Price earned his bachelor’s degree in aerospace

engineering from the University of Colorado, Boulder, and

completed the Program Management Course from Defense

Systems Management College in Virginia.

For reservations for the luncheon meeting, contact

LaDonna Neterer at 383–6135 or send an e–mail message

to [email protected]. For further informa-

tion on the NSC, visit www.NSCFL.org.

The NSC was founded in 1957 to “stimulate the

exchange of ideas and information about rocketry and

astronautics, and promote the recognition of America’s

achievements in aerospace. The club, which meets

monthly in Cocoa Beach, is a nonprofit corporation

composed of representatives of industry, government,

educational institutions and private individuals who share

a commitment to increasing public awareness of America’s

aerospace programs.

Melbourne Alumnae Panhellenic to hostfund–raiser at home on Lansing Island

The Melbourne Alumnae Panhellenic (MAP) will host

“The River Rendezvous: Mediterranean Mystique” from

3 to 6 p.m. on March 23 at Rick and Teresa McNeight’s

home on Lansing Island in Indian Harbour Beach.

Over the last 54 years, MAP has awarded Brevard

County collegiate women attending Florida colleges with

more than $250,000 in scholarships.

All proceeds from this fund–raiser will support scholar-

ships for undergraduate students from Brevard County

who are currently members of a Panhellenic Conference

organization.

“This will be a fabulous afternoon to enjoy a festive

atmosphere of dancing, dining and bidding on fantastic

silent auction items and perusing vendor goodies,” said

Diane Chasick, committee co–chairwoman, “while

benefiting the daughters of our community.”

Visit www.MelbournePanhellenic.org to make your

reservation for the event. Sponsorships are being offered.

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ORLANDO — What do Brevard’s Enchanted Forest,

Barrier Island Sanctuary and Turkey Creek Sanctuary

have in common? They are among the jewels that

Titusville resident and University of Central Florida

professor Ross Hinkle has helped protect for future

generations of Floridians.

Hinkle, who specializes in conservation biology, was one

of the founding members of the Selection and Management

Committee, the county commission–appointed scientific

advisory group that helps the EELs program select land to

purchase and preserve.

The Environmentally Endangered Lands (ELL) is a

voter–approved program established in 1990 to protect the

natural habitats of Brevard County by “acquiring environ-

mentally sensitive lands for conservation, passive recre-

ation, and environmental education.”

Residents voted to tax themselves up to $55 million for

the acquisition and maintenance of Brevard’s natural

areas, and in 2004 the residents reaffirmed that commit-

ment by passing another referendum for additional funds.

“To save all that land and preserve natural Brevard

and natural Florida for future generations, that’s definitely

one of the accomplishments I’m most proud of,” Hinkle

said. He served as the committee’s chairman for almost 20

years and today serves at the vice chairman.

Not only has Hinkle dedicated his life to studying and

improving our understanding of the natural environment

in Florida, he’s also an advocate for its preservation and a

regular visitor to many of the areas he’s helped preserve.

When he isn’t mentoring graduate students in the area

of conservation biology — two of whom are from Merritt

Island — he’s meeting with fellow members of the EEL

committee to plan for purchases and work with the county

on preservation of more than 20,000 acres of biological

diversity through responsible stewardship. And when he’s

done with work, you can find him bird– watching at the

Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge or kayaking in the

lagoon.

“You can do research and publish about conservation,

but if you can participate in a way that helps preserve

those natural areas, that’s really something,” Hinkle said.

So why is this Greeneville, Tenn., native who grew up

on a tobacco farm in the mountains of eastern Tennessee

so passionate about natural Florida?

“It’s one thing to read about something, it’s another to

touch it, smell it, know it,” he said. “I want our children

and their children to be able to experience natural Florida

and not just read about it in a book.”

Although Hinkle stepped down to become vice chair-

man of the committee in 2012 after he accepted the

position of vice provost and dean of the college of graduate

studies, his commitment hasn’t wavered.

His work at UCF helps ensure future generations of

scientists will also realize the impact their work can have

on daily life. Hinkle is responsible for ensuring graduate

students at UCF get a comprehensive academic education

and hands–on experience where possible that will prepare

them to be leaders in their fields.

“I think UCF and specifically the biology program help

deliver the message that you can’t do research in a

vacuum,” Hinkle said. “You have to apply it and often that

application has more meaning if it helps your community.

I feel lucky to be able to do that for UCF and for Brevard

County. There’s nothing more satisfying.”

Webster University on the Space CoastContinued from page 11Telemedicine for Medicare Act, which allows Medicare providers to treat Medicare patients electronically across state

lines without need to obtain multiple state licenses.

“The Patients Guide to Concierge Medicine and Direct–Pay Healthcare,” released by “Concierge Medicine Today,” is a

comprehensive resource and introductory guide for anyone wanting to learn more about concierge medicine, direct

primary care, and cash–only medical clinics from a consumer–patient perspective.

“I’m excited about the new direction of my practice. In society today, more people are stressed and they need help. A lot

of the people who are experiencing problems are healthy–minded, high–functioning individuals. They want services

available to best meet their needs. Often, it can be as simple as a 20–minute phone call to receive feedback on some-

thing,” said Dr. Harris.

UCF biologist Ross Hinkle helping to save Brevard’s natural environment for future generations of Floridians

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BBN BREVARD BUSINESS NEWSHealth First Heart CenterContinued from page 1

A high–profile case like that of former President George

W. Bush, whose physicians found blockage in an artery

during a routine physical last year, should serve as a

reminder for people to make sure they are familiar with

their personal risk factors for heart disease. President

Bush underwent a procedure to have a stent placed in a

heart artery.

The heart–disease risk factors include smoking,

untreated high cholesterol, poorly controlled high blood

pressure, diabetes, and a family history of early heart

disease. People need to know these risks, in order to

survive with less heart damage.

Hospital heart teams move swiftly once the patient

arrives.

A “New England Journal of Medicine” study of patients

treated for heart attack at 515 hospitals participating in

the “CathPCI Registry” found “door–to–balloon” time fell

from 83 minutes in 2005–2006 to 67 minutes in 2008–

2009. The study was published last September. The

findings show the result of collaboration among teams led

by cardiologists, emergency medicine physicians, and

emergency medical services to reduce the time it takes to

treat a heart attack.

The five major symptoms of a heart attack are: chest

pain or discomfort; pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or

back; feeling weak, light–headed, or faint; pain or discom-

fort in the arms or shoulder; and shortness of breath.

“If you think that you are having a heart attack, call

911 immediately,” said Dr. Jara. “Don’t try to drive

yourself to the hospital. Call 911 because EMS profession-

als are trained to identify a condition that is called

‘STEMI.’ It is caused by a blocked artery shutting down

blood supply to a large area of the heart.”

Unless the blockage is eliminated quickly, the patient’s

health and life are at serious risk. Each year, almost

300,000 Americans have the most serious kind of heart

attack — a STEMI, which stands for ST–segment eleva-

tion myocardial infarction.

“It’s a type of heart attack that can be identified by

some changes in the EKG and of course by medical

personnel,” said Dr. Jara, who trained at some of the top

medical institutions in the nation.

He served an internship and fellowship at VAMC/

University of Miami and Jackson Memorial Medical

Center in Miami, where he was chief resident and a

member of the adjunct faculty. Dr. Jara received additional

training in carotid stenting at Northwestern University, in

Chicago, and in cardiac computed tomography at the

University of Florida’s Shands Hospital in Gainesville.

STEMI occurs when a cholesterol plague ruptures and

a blood clot forms within an artery leading to the heart

muscle, completely obstructing the flow of blood, he added.

New streamlined guidelines will help health–care provid-

ers better treat patients with STEMI, according to an

American Heart Association/American College of Cardiol-

ogy statement.

The guidelines focus on critical decision–making at all

stages, beginning with the onset of symptoms at home or

work. They include improving patient recognition of heart–

attack symptoms and the importance of immediately

calling 911. Patient delay in reporting symptoms is one of

the “greatest obstacles” to timely and successful care.

“Travel by private car to the hospital is strongly discour-

aged.”

The report also recommends that emergency medical

technicians perform electrocardiograms in the field to

facilitate a more rapid triage and speedier treatment.

In the 1980s, there was up to a 20 percent mortality

rate for people who suffered a heart attack. Today, it’s

down to around 4 percent.

“Once somebody has a heart attack and they receive

treatment in a timely fashion, they typically recover

quickly,” said Dr. Jara. “They sometimes forget how life–

threatening this was to them. I’ve had heart–attack

patients who were brought to the emergency department

by EMS. After we finished the procedure, they were asking

to go home.”

Advances are also being made in the treatment of atrial

fibrillation, or AF, a common heart–rhythm disorder that

causes an irregular and rapid heartbeat. “It is the most

frequent, irregular heart–beat disease,” said Dr. Jara.

AF can lead to other problems, including chronic

fatigue, congestive heart failure, and stroke. The condition

can have a significant negative impact on an individual’s

quality of life.

A survey conducted in 2013 by the Heart Rhythm

Society showed that 1 in 4 Americans between the ages of

55 and 64 “had never heard of AF.” People with AF are five

times more likely to have a stroke compared to people

without the condition and it is estimated that AF accounts

for 15 percent of all strokes.

To reduce this higher risk of stroke, physicians often

prescribe blood thinners to AF patients. Over the past

decade, catheter ablation has emerged as an alternative

therapy.

Dr. Audrius Bredikis, an electrophysiologist, and

Dr. Gregory Simmons, a cardiothoracic surgeon, both of

the Health First Medical Group, perform a procedure

known as “Convergent Maze.”

The procedure is a minimally invasive approach that

combines electrophysiology and cardiac–surgery treat-

ments to help restore normal heart rhythm for AF

sufferers, including patients with structural heart disease

who may have previously failed one or more other treat-

ments. The medical term for the procedure is “cryoblation.”

Recently, Health First launched the Valve Clinic at

Holmes Regional Medical Center, as it continues to expand

its heart and vascular services in the region. An estimated

1.5 million people suffer from “aortic stenosis,” which

generally affects older adults and may lead to heart failure.

The aorta is the main artery carrying blood out of the

heart. As people age, calcium deposits may narrow the

valve and it may not open properly, obstructing blood flow

from the heart to the aorta and the rest of the body. This

common condition is called aortic stenosis. “It especially

affects people 75, 80 and 85 years old,” said Dr. Jara. “And

many of these people cannot undergo the standard

therapy, which is open–heart surgery to replace the valve.”

On the rise is a groundbreaking minimally invasive

procedure to replace diseased heart valves in the sickest of

patients. Dr. Jara said Health First plans to offer

Transcatherer Aortic Valve Replacement, or TAVR, in the

future. The procedure provides new hope for patients who

require heart–valve replacements but have been deemed

“inoperable” for traditional open–heart surgery by a

cardiac surgeon.

“TAVR has been available since 2011 at research

centers and is now starting to spread to community

centers. We are going through the proper steps and

training, and we are acquiring the devices so that we can

offer these therapies here,” said Dr. Jara.

TAVR therapy is made possible with the Edwards

Lifesciences Sapien Transcatherer Heart Valve, approved

by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2011. This is

one of several devices in development for use in the

emerging field of TAVR.

“I think the community should be proud of this type of

center, which is striving to provide the best possible care as

it acquires new technologies to keep up with the changes in

the field,” said Dr. Jara.

Health First is also working to create more awareness

of peripheral artery disease, which affects roughly 8

million Americans — and probably even more than that,

considering many cases go undiagnosed because it doesn’t

always have symptoms.

Called PAD for short and sometimes known as

peripheral vascular disease, it’s a lesser–known cardiovas-

cular disease in which plague builds up in the leg arteries,

said Dr. Jara. When PAD symptoms do show, they are

vague: pain, cramping or tiredness in the legs after

walking or climbing stairs. People often wrongly self–

diagnose, blaming arthritis or aging.

Decreased blood flow to critical areas increases risk for

heart disease and stroke. If left untreated, PAD can lead to

gangrene and amputation. One of the ways to treat PAD is

using a minimally invasive endovascular procedure, said

Dr. Jara. The procedure is performed inside the artery

using a thin, long tube (catheter). Through a small incision

in the groin, the catheter is guided by the surgeon to the

blocked area in the blood vessel.

Some health conditions and lifestyle factors can put

people at a higher risk for developing heart disease. You

can help prevent heart disease by making healthy choices

and managing any medical conditions you may have.

“Diet and exercise to me,” said Dr. Jara, “are the

foundations of preventing not only cardiovascular disease

but also disease in general.” The Surgeon General

recommends that adults should engage in “moderate–

intensity” exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of

the week.

As for diet, the federal government’s “Dietary Guide-

lines for Americans” recommends the Mediterranean diet

as an eating plan that can help promote health and

prevent disease.

“In the 1950s, researchers were looking at diets around

the world. They identified the Mediterranean diet as

healthy. Again in 2000 and just recently, research has

shown that this diet can decrease the risk of cardiovascular

disease. So there is a consistent body of research backing it

up,” said Dr. Jara, adding the diet emphasizes eating

primarily plant–based foods, such as fruits and vegetables,

whole grains, legumes and nuts, and fish, a splash of olive

oil, and perhaps even a glass of red wine.

vol. 32 no. 5 february 3, 2014 $1.00 a weekly space coast...

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